IMG Citrus, a family-owned, vertically-integrated citrus grower, packer and shipper in Vero Beach, Florida, renamed Todd Haffield as director of packinghouse operations. He previously held this role with the company from 2010 to 2017.
Haffield has been with IMG Citrus since 1999 in various logistics and sales roles in addition to his director position. He contributed to many operational improvements, such as the installation of a 13,000-square-foot cooler, as well as the Smart line and D-Pack line systems that produced some of the highest number of cartons packed in the history of the company.
“There is no doubt in my mind that Todd will provide the leadership needed to support our outstanding packinghouse team as we continue to grow and innovate,” said IMG Citrus President Michel Sallin.
Since returning to the position in April, Haffield has already begun to implement new initiatives to support the company’s continued operational growth.
“We are introducing new labor strategies into our operation this season to manage the increased yield from the new Happy Food Grove we recently acquired,” explained Haffield. “Additionally, we are installing a state-of-the-art sorter in our processing line that will add long-term value for our stakeholders.”
IMG Citrus expects production to double during fall harvest season from the 4,000-acre Happy Food Grove it added to its portfolio last month.
The new sorter captures 120 images per fruit, and up to 120 fruit per second in high definition, analyzing the images against precise criteria such as percentage of blemish, weight and density with 99% accuracy. Based on how the product compares to the set criteria, it is routed to respective marketplaces.
“We’re excited to bring the latest technology in packing equipment to our operation,” said IMG Citrus Vice President Veronique Sallin. “The new sorter not only has the capability to grade out fruit with cosmetic or condition defects at high rates of speed, but also identifies and eliminates immature fruit, or fruit with less juice content, ensuring a product with consistent taste.”
Growing up, Haffield worked in his family’s citrus business and later for Dole Food Co., handling outbound shipping and warehouse functions before moving into sales. IMG Citrus announced the purchase of the Dole packinghouse in December 1999, welcoming Haffield to its team soon after.
“My family has been heavily involved in the commercial citrus packing industry since the 1940s, said Haffield. “I’ve been exposed to it all of my life. I’m very lucky to have had great teachers along the way.”
Source: IMG Citrus