Southern Potato Co. has always been rooted in family. What began in 1923, when Henry Kuhl purchased land in Manitoba’s Winkler area, has grown into a multi-generational operation built on hard work, strong relationships and a commitment to quality. The knowledge Henry gained from his father, who immigrated to Canada from Ukraine in 1870, laid the foundation for a legacy that continues today.
Now in its fourth generation, brothers Marlon and Jeremy Kuhl oversee the farm’s operations, carrying forward the values instilled by their father, Keith, who is semi-retired but still enjoys time in the field. The next generation is already stepping in, with Marlon’s children, Brooke and Nolan, working full-time and gaining experience across the business. For Marlon, “The legacy means honouring the past but also being willing to adapt. Ultimately, the goal doesn’t change – we want to do a great job of providing delicious, high-quality food for people.”
Over the past decade, Southern Potato Co. has expanded significantly, including the acquisition of another farm. Today, the operation spans 11,000 acres, producing approximately 15 varieties of potatoes along with corn, wheat, canola, beans, soybeans, and oats. Growth has gone hand in hand with investment in technology. GPS variable-rate fertility systems and data management tools guide decision-making, and the team continues exploring emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, to improve efficiency and crop management.
Despite its size, quality remains a priority. “Innovation is really about asking how we can do things better,” says Marlon. “Efficiency and quality go hand in hand. It comes down to communicating effectively, making sure our people have the resources they need and focusing on providing the best-quality product we can.”
Sangre and Musica are two key varieties, valued for their storage capability and ability to supply consistent, high-quality potatoes year-round. As consumer preferences shift from red to yellow potatoes and interest grows in specialty varieties, the farm remains responsive to changing demand.
Behind the operation is a dedicated team of 55 year-round employees, expanding to as many as 90 during harvest. Building a strong culture is intentional. “People need clear goals,” Marlon says. “Our managers understand the direction we’re heading, and that alignment needs to be built right through the company. It’s important to know our employees well and make sure we have the right people on the team. Values have to be aligned. Leadership starts with leading by example.”
Sustainability is approached from both an agronomic and generational perspective. Crop rotation and cover crops, including rye and multi-species blends, help protect and strengthen the soil. Each generation, Marlon believes, carries a responsibility to leave both the land and the business stronger than they found it.
A long-standing partnership with Peak of the Market supports stability and growth. “Being part of a team gives us strength and stability,” says Marlon. “Peak can focus on selling product and accessing different markets, and we can focus on growing it. There’s also a research program we benefit from, access to testing and development of varieties that we wouldn’t have on our own. Together, we’re stronger than we would be as just one farm.”
Looking ahead, the future is bright. “What excites me most is seeing another generation coming along,” Marlon says. “Watching people work together, seeing Brooke and Nolan step into responsibility and being part of that process, that’s what makes the future exciting.”
For Southern Potato Co., progress is not about moving away from tradition but building on it and combining experience with innovation to ensure the farm continues to thrive for generations to come.