Since 1893, Sunkist Growers Inc. and its affiliate Fruit Growers Supply Company have supported an extensive network of citrus growers throughout California and Arizona. One of the United States’ oldest agricultural co-op stood the test of time with grit, integrity, and strong relationships – and it may help explain why Sunkist’s leadership recently selected PNC as their treasury partner.
In December 2024, Sunkist and its sister company, Fruit Growers Supply, decided it was time to consolidate treasury services with a single financial institution. Their goal was to establish a banking relationship that could provide innovative technological capabilities, excellent customer service, and thought partnership.
After meeting with a number of banks, Sunkist continued conversations with PNC, and what ensued were several weeks of in-depth discussions of how PNC’s technology could integrate with the company’s systems and further automate their treasury operations.
“It was really important for us to thoroughly understand Sunkist’s criteria for selecting a sole treasury partner and to communicate clearly how PNC could meet their needs, today and in the future,” said Mary Kiser, PNC treasury management officer. “It wasn’t just about offering a treasury solution – it was about talking through the specific ways the solution would align with the company’s objectives.”
The relationships built over the weeks of discussion proved to be an important factor in Sunkist’s decision to move its treasury services to PNC. “Sunkist shared that PNC invested the time and attention they considered essential in a banking partner,” said Maria Coronado, relationship manager in PNC Corporate Banking. “It was a big step for them to move away from long-established banking relationships and transition to a bank that is relatively new to the Los Angeles market. Sunkist shared with us that they appreciated PNC listening to their goals and objectives and that we demonstrated we had the right team, products, and services to help them achieve their strategic initiatives.”
Coronado added that the importance Sunkist places on relationships was clear from the beginning. “When meeting with the Sunkist team, their Chief Financial Officer noted they could see why PNC would be a good fit for Sunkist - but they also wanted to know what made Sunkist a good fit for PNC. The team explained that we are intentional in selecting clients who align with our market strategy - companies we can grow with and support as a strategic advisor. Our response resonated with Sunkist, and ultimately, they felt we were a good fit for each other.”
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PNC’s team of industry specialists is available to unlock business potential, navigate new technology, and overcome the challenges that come along with digital transformation. No matter the company's industry or size, PNC Treasury Management platform solutions are flexible in scope and geared towards driving measurable results and improving key performance indicators. For more information, reach out to your PNC Relationship Manager, or contact us.
