An agreement has been struck for Chiquita to continue operating as a tenant at the Port of Gulfport until the end of 2014, despite its lease running out on the 15 July and the fact that the fresh produce giant is moving to the Port of New Orleans.
A vote of Gulfport commissioners went 3-2 in favour of extending Chiquita's lease for a further six months, although this comes at a cost - rent will be doubled to US$50,240 per month for 25 acres, plus office, shop and warehouse space, SunHerald.com reported.
Chiquita notified the Port of Gulfport on 14 May that it would be leaving after 40 years as a tenant, but the company requires more time to ensure operations are ready to go in New Orleans.
Meanwhile, Chiquita has signed a new five-year extension agreement to its lease at the Port of Wilmington, Delaware Online reported.
