Australian retail chain Woolworths has confirmed it will support Australian citrus growers that are currently affected by the Queensland floods, and will not import additional US product to fill any resulting supply gaps, reports industry body Citrus Australia.
The bulk of this year’s lemon crop is ready to harvest, but may be slightly delayed due to severe flooding across the major growing regions of Central Burnett, which takes in Gayndah, Mundubbera and the Bundaberg area.
Paul Harker, head of fresh fruit and vegetables at Woolworths told Citrus Australia: “The Australian lemon season usually kicks off this week. While there may be a slight delay in supply in Australian lemons due to the floods, we have decided we will not order additional US lemons to ensure Australian growers get the best access to our customers.
“We are working closely with our growers in flood-affected regions to ensure that delicious Australian lemons will be arriving in stores across the country very soon.”
Citrus Australia has welcomed the announcement and support by Woolworths.
Judith Damiani, Chief Executive Officer of Citrus Australia said: “This will mean a lot to the flood affected growers in the Central Burnett and Bundaberg area. We are very pleased to work closely with the Woolworths team to support our growers during this difficult time.”
