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Versatility is a retail promotional bonanza for Florida avocados, suppliers say. Retailers are best-served by providing shoppers with usage ideas and choices, they said.

Miami-based J&C Tropicals has upgraded its packing process, said Jessie Capote, executive vice president and co-owner.

Unity Groves Corp. has expanded its acreage and looked to improve groves by “grafting better varieties,” said Louie Carricarte, president and owner.

Rough tropical weather in 2017 and its fallout in 2018 are now history, and Florida avocado grower-shippers say they are eager to get back to business as usual this year.

Chilean clementines are on the water and Chile’s summer citrus season has begun.

Seeking an 11th-hour deal that would preserve a revised tomato suspension agreement with the Commerce Department, Mexican tomato growers have submitted a proposal.

Legislation has been introduced in the U.S. House to prohibit imports of fresh citrus from China.

Del Monte Fresh Produce NA, Coral Gables, Fla., has opened its own packing facility in Michoacán, Mexico, said Chris Henry, vice president of sales and product management for avocados.

The heat and humidity that tropical avocados crave has shown up right on schedule in South Florida, said Mary Ostlund, director of marketing for Homestead-based Brooks Tropicals Inc.

Florida Classic Growers, Dundee, Fla., has a new partnership with three citrus groups that will expand its product offerings and increase distribution of citrus marketed under the company’s label.