SOUTH AFRICA - The summer citrus season is almost upon us, which means companies like Summer Citrus from South Africa (SCSA) are working hard to make sure this season is just as much of a hit with retailers and consumers as years prior. With shipments slated for early July, I tapped Summer Citrus from South Africa’s CEO Suhanra Conradie to find out more about what we can expect this summer. Spoiler alert: a whole lot of sweet, juicy citrus!

“This year marks our 20^th anniversary of supplying summer citrus to the U.S. market thanks to loyal importer and retail partners. In the past 20 years, SCSA has created a successful model of managing supply and demand with a collaborative effort,” Suhanra shared with me. “In 2019, we’ll continue to foster the relations we have formed with retailers who have been an imperative part of our success. We expect a strong season with sweet product overall!”

In fact, SCSA’s mission is to work with its import partners to provide Stateside retailers with the high quality and stable citrus that SCSA has become known for during the summer months. This mission also helps the company complement local U.S. citrus product and keep demand piqued for the domestic season.

“The first dedicated shipment of the 2019 season is scheduled to arrive to the U.S. in early July—just in time for the close of the domestic season. Clementines will likely be the first available, followed by a healthy supply of Navel oranges throughout the season. Cara Cara oranges and Star Ruby grapefruit will come a little later and last through the end of September. Late August and September, Mandarin varieties will arrive, followed by Midknight oranges,” Suhanra explained.

SCSA will also collaborate with retailers and importers on stronger marketing activations to help elevate demand and sales throughout the summer season. Suhanra noted that this includes traditional methods like merchandising and digital marketing, social media, and its very own trade newsletter.

“For our summer promotion, SCSA will utilize social media and influencer partners to create a buzz around citrus from South Africa, generating education and interest in the brand while driving consumers to seek out the product,” concluded Suhanra.

So, expect sweet citrus from South Africa come July and exciting marketing initiatives from SCSA soon!

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Summer Citrus from South Africa