Florida navel oranges are in demand

“We didn’t feel any of the effects of Hurricane Matthew. We dodged a real bullet—it’s been business as usual this week,” said Al Finch of Florida Classic Growers. “Florida Classic Growers is the marketing arm of Dundee Citrus Growers Association. We’re currently packing and selling Fallglo tangerines and Navels.”

Imported navel oranges are beginning to finish up, so buyers are turning to Florida shippers to supply their needs. “We look for demand of our navel oranges to increase each week over the next eight weeks, said Finch. “Pricing remains steady,” said Finch. We look to begin harvesting our grapefruit and juice oranges on October 14.”

Yesterday, the USDA released its Florida citrus forecast. Overall, all Florida orange production is slated to decrease by 14 percent with a forecast orange production of 70 million boxes for the 2016-2017 season.

Florida Classic Growers has been running promotions on its navel oranges and tangerines. This has boosted sales of both citrus varieties, helping these varieties get off to a strong start. 

For more information:

Al Finch

Tel: +1 863-439-1600