Imaflex has received its first major order from a major citrus producer for Shine N' Ripe XL, a heavy-duty, metalized agricultural mulch film developed to deter citrus greening.
"Today's announcement, from one of the world's largest orange juice producers, not only represents a material sales win for Imaflex, but further validates and acknowledges the unique benefits Shine N' Ripe XL brings to citrus growers worldwide," highlighted Mr. Joe Abbandonato, President and Chief Executive Officer of Imaflex.
This order follows, an initial trial purchase in early 2015 to test Shine N' Ripe XL on new tree plantings at theirFlorida operations. The results were so convincing they are now moving beyond the study stage. Not only did the metalized film help repel insect infestation through solar reflection, it also increased growth and yield, making it an environmentally-friendly integrated pest management tool.
Citrus greening, a bacterial disease spread by the Asian Citrus Psyllid (ACP) insect, is the most significant threat facing citrus growers. It causes deformed off-flavoured fruits, low yields and eventually tree death. "The unique attributes of Shine N' Ripe XL are well documented in numerous studies," highlighted Mr. Abbandonato. Most recently, a 3.5-year, large-scale field trial conducted by the University of Florida and completed in early 2016 found a clear benefit in controlling insect-vectored diseases, and a big boost in promoting young tree growth and yield using Shine N' Ripe XL. The aforesaid trial by the citrus producer further confirmed these benefits.
