Known for being an importer of citrus and avocados, LGS Specialty Sales also has a niche persimmon program. “From late November through early February, we source our persimmons from Spain,” says Peter Creager, Senior Account Manager with the company. While the season started a bit earlier than usual, it is still a short window of availability. However, it is a valuable program as US demand is very strong this time with domestic production from California winding down in winter. “Our customers are excited for Spanish Kaki persimmons to start early this year,” shared Creager. “Kakis are a great eating piece of fruit with good size and color. As a result, they are a great item to promote for the holiday season.”
The variety brought in from Spain is unique. “The country grows the Kaki Persimmon, which is a variety that brings in the best of the Hachiya and Fuyu varieties.” It is shaped like a Hachiya (acorn-like), but ready to eat like a Fuyu. Both Hachiya and Fuyu are grown in California, but the domestic market doesn’t offer the Kaki alternative. Kaki Persimmons are grown in the Rivera del Xuguer area in Valencia.
It's the 8th season for LGS to bring in persimmons from Spain. The country had a couple of down supply years due to back-to-back freezes. However, this year supply will bounce back with more volume available compared to the past two seasons. From Spain, it takes about 10-14 days for the fruit to arrive in the Port of Philadelphia. From there, the product is distributed nationwide.
Team LGS at last week's New York Produce Show. From left to right: Luke Sears, James Rasmussen, Peter Creager, and Lucio Rainelli.
For more information:
Peter Creager
LGS Specialty Sales
Tel: +1 (718) 542-2232
pcreager@lgssales.com
https://www.lgssales.com/