ATLANTA, GA — The fresh produce industry held its annual equivalent of the Super Bowl, the Produce Marketing Association Fresh Summit trade show, at the Georgia World Congress Center here Oct. 14-17 and the Florida contingent turned out in force to represent the Sunshine State’s vast array of fruits and vegetables.

Dozens of Florida companies were represented at PMA. Many had their own booths, while others banded together in the state Department of Agriculture’s sprawling Fresh from Florida pavilion, which had a prime spot on the show floor.

A large spring bloom and heavy summer rains should lead to a bigger Florida citrus crop this season, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Even better, growers have reported larger fruit sizes in early season varieties, welcome news after two seasons of smaller than average fruit.

Not only is Florida looking at promoting a bigger crop and larger fruit, perfect 2011 weather conditions have resulted in an early crop. Most citrus operations began harvesting in mid-October, two weeks ahead of typical seasons.

Andrea Grant, sales representative for Kenney Farm.

Andrea Grant handles sales for Kenney Farm in Concord, MA.

Anthony Sharrino

Anthony Sharrino, president of Eaton & Eustis Co., located on the New England Produce Center in Chelsea

Tommy Piazza, clerk of corporation for Community-Suffolk Inc.

Tommy Piazza, clerk of corporation for Community-Suffolk Inc., located on

Stephen Silk, president and owner of Arthur G. Silk Inc.

Steven Silk, president and owner of Arthur G.