Alico Inc. to Exit Florida Citrus Industry Amid Challenges

Alico Inc., a prominent citrus grower in Florida, has announced plans to cease its citrus operations following the current harvest season in 2025. This decision comes after years of adversity, including significant damage from hurricanes and persistent tree diseases.

Over the past decade, Florida’s citrus production has declined by 73%, largely due to citrus greening disease and compounded by hurricanes such as Irma (2017), Ian (2022), and Milton (2024). These challenges have severely impacted growers like Alico, leading to their decision to wind down citrus activities.

Alico plans to repurpose approximately 25% of its 53,371 acres for potential commercial or residential developments. This transition may result in the layoff of up to 172 employees. Additionally, juice producer Tropicana has been notified of these operational changes.

This move reflects broader difficulties within Florida’s citrus industry, which has faced a steady decline over the past two decades. The forecast for Florida’s orange production in the 2024-2025 season indicates a 20% decrease, heavily influenced by Hurricane Milton, potentially marking the lowest output in recent history.

Alico’s strategic shift underscores the need for adaptation in Florida’s agricultural sector as it contends with environmental challenges and evolving market conditions.