Wonderful Citrus Celebrates 75 Years as a World Leader in Fresh Citrus

February 2, 2026 | 2 min to read

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In 1966, foundations were laid for the new Paramount Citrus Association plant, McFarland, CA, which, at the time, was the largest, most modern packing plant in California.

Wonderful Citrus, Los Angeles, CA, a pioneer in the produce industry, is celebrating 75 years in 2025. With hundreds of growing partners around the world, imports from seven countries, and nearly 7,500 employees, Wonderful Citrus still believes in investing in its people and partners.

It now operates 10 packing house locations in various regions across the United States, including its main operations in California, Texas, New Jersey and Mexico.

As pioneers in produce marketing, Wonderful Citrus’ team of more than 200 in-store merchandisers work closely with retailers.

Originally founded in 1950 as Paramount Citrus Association, the company marketed and sold citrus for independent California citrus growers who were underserved by packing consolidators and brokers.

In 1981, Lynda and Stewart Resnick acquired Paramount Citrus, bringing their marketing prowess and financial acumen to the citrus industry. The acquisition paved the way for what is now one of the largest agricultural portfolios in the world, with The Wonderful Company establishing itself as the leader in branding and marketing of pistachios, almonds, pomegranates, mandarins and seedless lemons.

“We are proud to celebrate a legacy built on deep expertise, boundless passion, and an unwavering commitment to putting our people and partners first,” says Zak Laffite, president, Wonderful Citrus. “As we celebrate 75 years, Wonderful Citrus is excited to continue leading the citrus category forward through innovation, quality, marketing and sustainability — because no one knows and grows citrus like us.”

The McFarland Press, Kern County, CA, dedicated its Oct. 21,1966, edition to Paramount Citrus Association. Paramount held grand opening ceremonies, Oct. 28, 1966, for its new packing plant. The plant was the most innovative in California at the time, handling 15,000 boxes of fruit each day.

In celebration of this anniversary milestone, Wonderful Citrus is bringing back its original namesake brand, Paramount Citrus, as a primary label within its portfolio, representing its heritage as a citrus grower. Consumers can find the new Paramount Citrus label, including both packaged and stickered loose fruit, in produce departments across the country.

As Wonderful Citrus looks ahead, Laffite says they will focus on long-term growth and expansion, along with supply chain diversification. Wonderful Citrus is also investing in farming and cultivation activities to introduce and enhance the availability of high-demand varieties throughout the year.