Unifrutti Group acquires 990-acre citrus operation in Sicily
Fresh fruit global producer and distributor Unifrutti Group is acquiring Fondaco Nuovo, one of Sicily’s most established citrus operations. In a press release, the company celebrated the buy, calling it “a milestone” and saying it reinforces its strategy to expand owned production and strengthen its position in the European citrus market.
“This investment marks an important step in strengthening our European platform,” said Mohamed Elsarky, the firm's Chief Executive Officer. “By expanding our presence in Sicily, we are securing a premium supply at origin and reinforcing our ability to deliver consistent quality and reliability to our customers in a wider retail window.”
Located in the foothills of Mount Etna, Fondaco Nuovo spans approximately 990 acres across two highly productive farms. It is a significant base for premium Tarocco blood oranges, which are PGI protected under the denomination of origin 'Arancia Rossa di Sicilia,' and one of the most sought-after citrus varieties globally.
The acquisition significantly increases Unifrutti’s presence in Sicily, more than doubling its total controlled area in Italy to approximately 1,700 acres, building on the group’s existing footprint established through the acquisition of Oranfrizer in 2020.
The undisclosed investment reinforces the company's focus on Europe as a core market and building an integrated, production-led platform.
Unifrutti’s bet on Sicily
Sicily is recognized as one of the most distinctive citrus-growing regions in the world, and it’s particularly famous for premium blood oranges, especially the Tarocco variety, native to Italy. The unique combination of volcanic soils and day-night temperature swings in the microclimate of Mount Etna’s snow-covered slopes creates the distinctive color, flavor, and aroma.
“Sicily is globally recognized for premium citrus, especially blood oranges and other prized varieties,” said Mauro Benda, Chief Executive of Unifrutti Italy. “Expanding our footprint reflects our ambition to grow sustainably and with purpose.”
The full range at Fondaco Nouvo includes early Tarocco, as well as the notably sought-after Ippolito and Lempso varieties. Late clones, Tarocco Sant'Alfio and Meli, extend the season through May, the company explained, widening the retail window with high-quality fruit.
Mandarins are another key component of the group’s new purchase, which includes the pigmented Mandared and Tacle, a distinctive cross between Tarocco and clementines. The production lineup is completed by limes and finger limes, which are rare in Sicily.
By increasing its owned production, Unifrutti aims to ensure greater consistency, quality, and reliability for its customers, strengthening its dual-hemisphere supply model, and linking Italy with its Southern Hemisphere operations to enable year-round citrus availability.
*All images courtesy of Unifrutti.
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