Commissioner Nikki Fried Applauds Peace River Citrus, Coca-Cola Partnership Expansion

Commissioner Nikki Fried Applauds Peace River Citrus, Coca-Cola Partnership Expansion

Bartow, FL – Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Nikki Fried visited Bartow yesterday, April 16, 2026, to commend the expanded partnership between Peace River Citrus Products and The Coca-Cola Company. The collaboration, which has been a cornerstone of the local agricultural economy for decades, is set to further strengthen the citrus industry in Bartow and the surrounding Polk County area.

Commissioner Fried toured the Peace River Citrus facility, a longstanding hub in Bartow's industrial district just off US Highway 17, and met with company leadership and employees. During her visit, she highlighted the significance of such partnerships in sustaining Florida's iconic citrus industry, especially in the face of ongoing challenges like citrus greening.

“Peace River Citrus Products has been a vital part of Bartow’s economic fabric for generations, providing jobs and supporting our agricultural heritage,” Commissioner Fried stated during a brief address to employees and local officials. “This expanded partnership with Coca-Cola is a testament to their resilience and innovation. It ensures that Florida-grown citrus continues to reach consumers nationwide, and it reinforces the importance of our local growers.”

Peace River Citrus Products, a major employer in Bartow, processes a significant volume of Florida oranges, which are then used in various Coca-Cola beverage products, including Minute Maid and Simply Orange. The expansion is expected to lead to increased processing capacity and potentially create additional job opportunities within the Bartow facility, though specific numbers were not immediately available.

Local leaders present at the event echoed Commissioner Fried’s sentiments, emphasizing the positive impact on the community. “This isn’t just good news for Peace River Citrus; it’s good news for Bartow,” commented a local business owner attending the event. “It means more stability for our families and a continued commitment to the agricultural roots that define our town.”

The partnership underscores a continued effort to support Florida’s citrus growers and processors, ensuring that the industry remains a cornerstone of the state’s economy. For Bartow residents, it signifies continued investment in a long-standing local business and the preservation of agricultural jobs in the area, honoring the city's deep ties to Central Florida's citrus heritage.