The Giumarra Cos. will be working with MPG Inc., one of the larger persimmon growers in the United States, to market persimmons beginning in late August.  

“We are very honored to be working with Giumarra to bring our persimmons to market through their extensive marketing and sales network,” Vannak Thol, head of operations for MPG, said in a press release. “Giumarra and MPG share a passion for growing and are equally dedicated to bringing high-quality fruit to consumers.”

The company was founded more than 15 years ago as a family operation.

The company now farms extensive acreage of Fuyu and Hachiya persimmons in California’s San Joaquin Valley. Additionally, they are a partnered grower of Spanish persimmons that will be imported following the conclusion of the domestic season, presenting an extended opportunity for programs into February.

“The quality for the upcoming season will be excellent,” Jeannine Martin, director of sales for Giumarra Reedley, said in the release. “Persimmons have a niche consumer fan base and there is enormous potential to bring them to the greater population. We are expecting a harvest of around 1 million cases, which includes fruit from both California and Spain.”

The persimmons will be available early, beginning at the end of August. Fuyu persimmons will be offered in one-layer cartons or two-pound high-graphic handle bags in a 31.5-pound master case and other specialized program packaging, both bearing the Kaylee brand developed by MPG and Giumarra’s Nature’s Partner brand. Hachiya persimmons will be shipped in a one-layer carton or consumer packs in counts of 10, 11 or 12.

“We want retailers, dietitians, and consumers to know that this versatile fall fruit is delicious and an excellent source of fiber and vitamin A,” Kellee Harris, western region business director, said in the release. “To help promote health and flavor, we developed a selection of health-conscious recipes highlighting persimmons to show consumers that they are a great addition to a variety of snacks and meals, including soups and salads.”

Fall California persimmon shipments will conclude Dec. 1, with Spanish persimmons available from November through February. Spanish persimmons will arrive via the port of Philadelphia.