Latest News From Allison Gibeson

Florida strawberries are profitable and popular in the market because they give retailers the ability to sell and promote a continuous fresh berry program to consumers all year long.

While labor issues and competition from California and Mexico are presenting ongoing challenges for the Florida strawberry industry.

While no solution for citrus greening has been identified, scientists continue to make progress toward producing workable tools to manage the disease.

Winter Haven, Fla.-based Noble Worldwide has added Scott George to the company’s sales team. 

The citrus industry is devoting extensive resources and time to new variety development, said Peter Chaires, executive vice-president of Lakeland, Fla.-based  Florida Citrus Packers.

Feek Properties LLC, which owns Fort Pierce, Fla.-based DLF International, has added 750 new acres for grapefruit production this year and are in the process of expanding further, said Doug Feek, president.

Despite forecasts for a smaller production of all oranges and grapefruits this year, Florida citrus growers said favorable growing conditions are resulting in a strong, high-quality Florida citrus crop.

With younger consumers driving growth, the organic produce sector will likely experience 5% to 10% growth in sales dollars in 2022, according to Mike Mauti, managing partner of Canada-based Execulytics Consulting.