LGS Specialty Sales, Ltd. (LGS), importer and distributor of citrus, avocados and grapes, has announced the beginning of its Spanish and Moroccan clementine season. The company is expecting shipments of Spanish and Moroccan citrus to arrive in the United States beginning in November and lasting through April.
“Thanks to a strong growing season, we are expecting a large crop from both countries,” said Luke Sears, president and founder of LGS. “This year’s increased volume of Chilean W. Murcotts has allowed us to import fruit of optimum maturity from Spain and Morocco, paving the way for a smooth transition period later in the season.”
Throughout the 28 years the company has been procuring clementines, LGS said it has fostered strong grower partnerships in Spain, which enabled the company to fulfill its mission to bring citrus to U.S. consumers year-round. Moroccan clementines—which were added to LGS’ product offerings in the early 2000s—are sourced from fertile areas like Berkane, a region in northern Morocco that was selected specifically for its climate and rootstock, both of which are conducive to producing citrus.
“We are anticipating a smooth transition from Murcotts into Spanish and Moroccan clementines, which will be at peak flavor by the second week of December,” Sears said. “Looking ahead, we plan to transition from clementines to W. Murcotts in January, and we will have a steady volume of Moroccan Murcotts through April. Overall, we expect to have an excellent crop this year, both in yield and in flavor.”
LGS also expanded its team to include traveling expert advisers and inspectors who work closely with growing partners year-round. The company says that during the growing season, inspectors frequently visit the groves to monitor product quality. In the off-season, advisers consult on growing practices and advise on any changes that can be made to improve product taste at harvest, particularly with irrigation and fertigation practices.
For more information:
Rebekah McMurrain
LGS Specialty Sales
Tel: 718-542-2200
rmcmurrain@lgssales.com
www.lgssales.com