About Us
ABOUT HOWBILL FARMING
Sustainably Growing Quality Fruit & Livestock
For generations, Howbill Farming has cultivated top-quality apples, pears, and stone fruit in the Koue Bokkeveld. Our commitment to sustainable farming ensures premium produce while preserving the land for future generations.
We integrate responsible farming practices, operate a modern packhouse, and market through Zonnehaven. Additionally, we manage Kaleo Guest Farm, offering a countryside escape rooted in agricultural heritage.
Our Mission
We at Howbill Farming believe in cultivating high-quality fruit while preserving the land for future generations. Our commitment to sustainable farming ensures that our apples, pears, peaches, and nectarines are grown with care and respect for nature. By combining tradition with innovation, we prioritise ethical practices, resource efficiency, and environmental responsibility. Through dedication and passion, we strive to produce exceptional fruit that nourishes communities locally and beyond.
Our History
- 1940s
Howard Gibson returned to Ceres after serving as a pilot in World War II. He initially owned a fish café, but with his entrepreneurial spirit, he built a successful agricultural business, acquiring several farms in the Ceres area.
- 1952
Howard purchased Parys, a fruit farm in the Koue Bokkeveld. The first harvest yielded 40 old-fashioned wooden lug boxes of Granny Smith apples and 50 boxes of White Winter Pearmain apples.
- 1969
Howard’s eldest son, Raymond Gibson, returned from military service and began farming full-time.
- 1970s
The Gibson family expanded their assets with the purchase of several farms. In 1979, they built a packhouse and established Howbill Properties—named after HOWard and his wife SyBILL.
- 1982–1990
Following Howard’s passing, his business was inherited by his three sons, Raymond, William, and George. They later divided the enterprise, with Raymond taking ownership of Howbill Properties, including the farms Parys and Panorama.
- 1990s–2000s
Howbill continued to expand, acquiring more farms and extending its packhouse and cold storage facilities. In 1999, Raymond’s daughter, Lilian, joined the business.
- 2018
Raymond handed over the reins to his son-in-law, Daniel Goosen. Together with his wife, Lilian, Daniel is committed to leading Howbill into the future.
- 2023
Recognising the growing need for a closer connection between growers and customers, Howbill partnered with Doornkraal to establish Zonnehaven—a grower-exporter company dedicated to delivering the finest fruit to both local and international markets.
