Citrus cooperative Sunkist Growers says that it and its sister supply company, Fruit Growers Supply Co., plan to reorganize strategically. This new cooperative, also called Sunkist Growers, will be formed to serve as the holding company of the existing Sunkist Growers and Fruit Growers Supply Co.
Sunkist Growers says this move will better position the cooperative to serve its customers and growers with enhanced innovation and efficiency and drive future growth.
Sunkist Growers and Fruit Growers Supply adopted a shared management structure in 2017, and the companies say this move marks the next phase that reflects a natural evolution of the partnership.
“Sunkist and Fruit Growers Supply have been operating as sister companies for over a century, and we anticipate this reorganization will allow the combined entity to better prepare for a rapidly evolving citrus market,” says Gerald Denni, chairman of the board for Sunkist and Fruit Growers Supply. “With the changes that have been made over the past several years, we are in an excellent position to enter the next phase of growth as one company.”
The boards of both entities approved a new five-year strategic plan to ensure a clear vision for the future and growth path of the combined entities.
The companies say the reorganization will be effective as of Nov. 1 and that the leadership of the parent company will include key leaders from both Sunkist and Fruit Growers Supply.
“We are excited to bring together the deep sales and marketing experience of Sunkist with the supply chain expertise of Fruit Growers Supply,” Jim Phillips, president and CEO of Sunkist and Fruit Growers Supply, said in a news release. “This will allow for a more seamless experience for both customers and growers.”
