We often talk, and write, about agricultural advancement in the context of improving outcomes for the planet and other stakeholders. However, in this post, we want to talk about how Agriculture Capital’s work has improved the lives of consumers and business for our customers!
Sumo Citrus® is known for its distinctive bulbous shape, easy peel, and incredibly sweet flavor. It should also be known for how it is transforming the citrus section of the produce aisle. Through the most recent Sumo Citrus season, the brand accounted for 74% of total growth realized by the mandarin sub-category and 29% of total growth among all citrus products at the grocery store (Total FMCG – Nielsen YTD + L20WE 4.26.25). This category leadership demonstrates how rethinking produce to deliver extraordinary consumer value—through repeatable superior quality, convenience, and price—creates good outcomes for consumers and grocery customers alike.
Building a Category-Defining Brand
Sumo Citrus has built a loyalty engine that grows with each season. In 2025, consumers sent 45,000 messages and generated 2.3 million social interactions. These aren’t passive followers – they’re active advocates who show up for in-person events, create original content, and embrace premium value as part of the Sumo Citrus experience.
This year, the brand also took its first steps outside of the produce aisle. Partnering with Bolthouse, AC Foods created a cold-pressed 100% Sumo Citrus juice and tropical smoothie that features Sumo Citrus as the primary ingredient. It was critical to build on the brand and experience that Sumo Citrus consumers have come to love, and feedback suggests we succeeded! One consumer shared that it was “the best citrus juice I’ve ever had by a mile.” We will continue to explore creative brand extensions and partnerships to give consumers more opportunities to experience the Sumo Citrus brand.
We are proud of what the Sumo Citrus brand has accomplished and how our consumers have embraced a movement that turns a seasonal wonder into anticipated celebration. We know there are more opportunities to delight these loyal fans.
(Giant Eagle)
(The Fresh Market)
Where Soil Health Meets Market Success & Innovation
Central to Sumo Citrus’ success lies AC Foods’ integrated approach to regenerative farming. The innovative practices AC Foods has pioneered in Australia and California alongside grower partners are the foundation of consistently exceptional fruit quality and consumer satisfaction.
Over time, we have refined implementation of agricultural practices that improve soil organic matter, support beneficial insects, and bolster crops with native ecosystems. This commitment to soil health has created multiple advantages: superior fruit quality, enhanced climate resilience, and water conservation.
We have also pushed the envelope for quality and sustainability in our packing operations. Best-in-class packing equipment and automation in Sumo Citrus packing facilities guarantee consistent product quality while sustainable packaging and operational innovations further reflect AC Food’s commitment to environmental stewardship throughout the value chain. Our primary packing facility implements zero waste and solar-energy initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and operating costs. In 2023, AC Foods’ Legacy Packing and Cold Storage facility reported a 73% decrease in water use per ton over prior year. Further, this vertically integrated model allows tight control of processes and fruit quality from farm to shelf.
Looking Ahead
The Sumo Citrus success story offers insights into the future of agriculture and how different stakeholders can engage. For strategic partners, this represents an opportunity to be part of a turnkey operation with proven systems and an exceptional growth trajectory. For retailers, the message is clear: Sumo Citrus doesn’t just occupy shelf space—it drives category expansion and builds consumer loyalty. For investors, Agriculture Capital’s regenerative practices and innovations have created durable competitive advantages that traditional agriculture simply cannot replicate. The path to exceptional business performance runs directly through healthy soils, thriving ecosystems, and a commitment to farming practices that enhance rather than deplete our natural resources.
For more information, please see our most recent Regenerative Impact Report, and feel free to contact us at acmindset@agriculturecapital.com.