Karl Albritton
Bartow native and Sarasota resident, Karl Albritton, has devoted his life to the production and sale of Florida citrus. He utilized his mechanical know-how to develop many of the early tools and equipment that aid in the production of citrus. He designed the packinghouse systems, layout and equipment for the Albritton Fruit Company and developed one of the earliest citrus hedges. He has been active in the Albritton Company since the early 1900s, serving as its president for many years. He has been the driving force behind the company as it blossomed into seven stores and more than 1,600 acres of grove land. Albritton was instrumental in fostering the Gift Fruit Shippers Association, and is recognized for the development of the Citrus Concentrate Plant in DeSoto County in 1969.