IMG Citrus announced that its new flagship facility, Sweet Sixty, is fully operational for the 2025–2026 Florida citrus season.
© IMG Citrus
This milestone marks the successful completion of a vision first set in motion in 2022, when the company acquired the newly built 185,000-square-foot cold storage and packing facility formerly owned by J&J Fresh Produce. Strategically located just minutes from both I-95 and the Florida Turnpike, and a few hours north of the Port of Miami, Sweet Sixty was always intended to be more than just additional square footage. It was a cornerstone of a long-term growth strategy to create an integrated cold storage, packing, and distribution hub that strengthens supply chain efficiency and positions the company for continued expansion in year-round citrus supply.
"When we purchased Sweet Sixty, we envisioned a space that could grow with us, supporting both our Florida roots and our expanding citrus import program," said Sydney Allison, director of sales. "Today, that vision is a reality."
Between 2023 and 2025, the company operated both the legacy Gifford packinghouse and the new Sweet Sixty facility. It initially moved its import program into Sweet Sixty to leverage its advanced cold storage and distribution capacity while continuing Florida citrus operations in Gifford, which relied on infrastructure not included in the turn-key purchase. This dual operation ensured supply continuity while upgrades and equipment integrations were completed at Sweet Sixty.
© IMG Citrus
Now, with packing and distribution consolidated under one roof, Sweet Sixty has been designed for efficiency, combining thoughtfully integrated existing equipment with strategic investments in cutting-edge technology and ample capacity to support IMG Citrus's growing year-round citrus program.
Notable additions include:
- Relocation and enhanced MAF grading lines and MAF Compact electronic sizers, designed for high-speed, high-precision fruit sorting.
- A brand new organic line to meet growing demand from consumers and retailers.
- A high-pressure stainless steel bin washer from California ensures superior sanitation and reduced water usage.
- Integration of a fresh mesh combo bagging line, offering a 320 percent increase in packing speed and unmatched precision, freshness, and retail readiness.
© IMG Citrus
In total, the company has invested over $3 million in upgrades to the Sweet Sixty facility.
The completion of Sweet Sixty's transition follows the company's most successful summer citrus season to date. Import volumes reached new highs, thanks to strong partnerships with global grower collaborators and heightened satisfaction among retail customers. The company also continued to expand its lime program, offering an increasingly diverse citrus portfolio and delivering on its promise of "the best of every season."
With more than 3,000 pallet positions, 20 dock doors, and space for future growth, Sweet Sixty is built to scale alongside the company's evolving operations.
For more information:
Caraline Jones
IMG Citrus
Tel: +1 (352) 429-6955
[email protected]
https://imgcitrus.com/
