The USDA has cited Colorado-based company Liborio Markets #8 Inc. for failure to pay for produce.

Liborio Markets #8 has allegedly failed to pay $582,226 to 14 sellers for 297 lots of produce. Consequently, the company can no longer operate in the produce industry until March 31, 2016, at which time it may reapply for a PACA license, according to a press release.

The company’s principals, Liborio Holding Co., Enrique J. Alejo, John Alejo, and Enrique M. Alejo, may not be employed by or affiliated with any PACA licensee until March 31, 2015, and then only with the posting of a USDA-approved surety bond.

In the past three years, USDA resolved approximately 4,600 claims filed under PACA involving more than $87 million. Individuals, including sole proprietors, partners, members, managers, officers, directors, or major stockholders may not be employed by or affiliated with any PACA licensee without the approval of the USDA. The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS), PACA Division, regulates fair trading practices of produce businesses operating subject to PACA.

Agricultural Marketing Service