The Cold Hardy Citrus Association (CHCA), a collaborative group of more than 75 growers, handlers, processors and allied businesses of all sizes, with groves and packing facilities throughout the Florida Panhandle, Eastern Alabama and Southern Georgia, will debut its newly created regional brand—Sweet Valley Citrus—at the New York Produce Show December 15, 2021.
"Sweet Valley is a mythical place," said Karen Nardozza, president and CEO of Moxxy, the marketing agency hired to develop the regional brand and generate awareness. "While you can’t find Sweet Valley on a map in the multi-state, Southeast areas where CHCA members grow, harvest and pack, the name provides a memorable moniker that describes the most beloved quality of the citrus fruit grown in the cool climate there—primarily Satsuma mandarins."
Satsuma mandarins are expected to see strong volumes through mid-January.
Peak season is in full swing for Sweet Valley Satsuma mandarins, with strong volumes expected through mid-January. The Satsumas are known for their flavor and sweetness. They are a Southeastern favorite with retailers, consumers, schools and foodservice professionals.
"Our growers and packers are distributing under multiple labels and building their own brands, yet everyone’s fruit shares the qualities unique to our growing area," said Kim Jones, current president of CHCA. "The new Sweet Valley Citrus label and brand identifies to buyers and consumers that this is a truly special fruit, locally grown on small farms—just what shoppers are looking for."
Produce buyers can speak with representatives in booth #572 at the New York Produce Show, click here or contact [email protected] for more information.
Satsumas are known for their flavor and sweetness and are a Southeastern favorite with retailers, consumers, schools and foodservice.
Rich soils, warm summers and cool spring and fall seasons contribute to the super-sweet, easy-peel and seedless fruit consumers prefer. Sweet Valley Satsumas have a very short season from October through January. They are asked for by consumers, provide retailers the opportunity for beautiful displays and promotions and give community organizations a fundraising tool for schools and charities.
"The cooler climate and higher humidity compared to other citrus growing regions really makes a difference in the eating experience," Jones added. "Sweet Valley Citrus is remarkably flavorful with consistently high Brix values."
Sweet Valley Citrus is also known for its Shiranui mandarins, Cara Cara navel oranges, grapefruit, Kishu mandarins, tangerines and lemons.
Because of its Southeast locations, amplified by supply chain issues at U.S. ports, Sweet Valley Citrus packers also offer the fruit and shipping to locations east of the Mississippi. Compared to West Coast and imported citrus, this reduced shipping time can extend shelf life from a few days to several weeks.
For more information:
Karen Nardozza
Sweet Valley Citrus
Tel: +1 (831) 261-6411
[email protected]
https://sweetvalleycitrus.com/