Sun Belle has expanded its strawberry program through new grower partnerships in central Florida. This strategic addition will round out Sun Belle’s robust year-round supply of fresh berries, according to a news release.
The Schiller Park, Ill.-based company says central Florida is known for its thriving winter strawberry crop, producing fruit with exceptional flavor from late November to early April. In partnership with Plant City, Fla. growers, Sun Belle will offer Florida strawberry varieties, including the Florida Brilliance, Florida Ember, Florida Encore and Sweet Sensation, throughout the upcoming winter season.
“This expansion truly aligns with where Sun Belle is as a whole — we are growing rapidly and making strategic, forward-thinking moves that strengthen our supply chain and ensure our retail partners can meet their consumer demand every week of the year,” says JC Clinard, CEO of Frutura’s Berry Division. “It also hits close to home for me. With Plant City being my home base, I’ve come to personally know and trust this passionate community of growers.”
Sun Belle says the Florida crop will complement its existing production in Baja California and central Mexico, creating a seamless supply calendar for retail partners.
“Our experienced team has built a truly notable berry program over the years,” says Taylor Hazelwood, vice president of sales at Sun Belle. “The addition of Florida’s winter crop allows us to continue to provide our retail customers with berries that meet our high-quality standards and satisfy the continued consumer demand for flavorful strawberries every month of the year. It’s an exciting growth opportunity for our retail relationships and for our brand.”
Sun Belle Director of Marketing Hailey Clark says the expansion is aligned with the company’s focus on innovation and more.
“This Florida program is one of many steps Sun Belle is taking to deliver on our brand promise of quality, reliability and innovation,” says Clark. “Our team has been strategically developing new offerings like unique on-the-go blueberry packaging and premium berry programs — initiatives designed to excite loyal berry consumers while also attracting new ones. We’re eager to share these innovations with our family of retail partners.”
Sun Belle will be at the International Fresh Produce Association’s upcoming Global Produce and Floral Show in Anaheim, Calif., at the Frutura booth, No. 2081.
