Limoneira, a California-based citrus and avocado business, has announced the creation of a South African business, Limoneira SA, as part of its “One World of Citrus” model to provide a year-round supply of high-quality citrus.
Limoneira has also partnered with South Africa-based Re:inc to create Real Citrus, which will manage packaging and sales opportunities in the region.
Limoneira said in a statement on April 12 that the two companies will work together to manage sourcing, packaging and distribution, with citrus fruit sourced from South African growers, locally packed and sold globally.
“Africa is one of the world's largest citrus exporting continents, with export volumes almost four times larger than California and Arizona combined. This presents a promising new opportunity to supply year-round product to our global customers. ” said Limoneira COO Alex Teague. “Limoneira SA also intends to pursue investments in joint venture agricultural and packaging operations in South Africa.”
Re:inc CEO and co-founder Riaan van Wyk said the partnership with Limoneira “makes perfect sense.”
“[Limoneira’s] Our 124-year history of growing high-quality citrus for export is commendable, as is our commitment to sustainability. It's great to be able to leverage our collective talent to benefit our customers,” said Van Wyk.
Re:inc specializes in the breeding, production and marketing of new fruit varieties in South Africa for national and international customers.
