Premier Citrus Packers, one of Florida's leading grapefruit suppliers, has reportedly purchased 2,000 acres (just over 800ha) of citrus groves in the state's Indian River region from grower-shipper A Duda & Sons for US$15m.
According to a number of local reports, county records show that Premier Citrus purchased the land this month in two parts: one covering 1,545 acres (625ha) and the other measuring 432 acres (175ha). The groves are situated west of Interstate 95 on State Road 60.
Speaking to Eurofruit Magazine last month, Premier Citrus marketing manager Bill Jarvis said the company was committed to expanding its growing operations in Florida, despite the diffficulties faced by other operators in coping with production problems such as citrus greening and canker as well as the impact of recent hurricane activity.
The news of Premier's latest land acquisition follows the reported divestment of another 332 acres (134ha) of citrus groves belonging to A Duda & Sons to Groveland-based IMG Citrus.
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