Tholen - For three generations, the Hocutt family has been growing sweet potatoes, pumpkins and asparagus in Sims (North Carolina). Sweet potatoes are by far the most important product of the Triple J Produce company. In total, the company grows over 560 hectares of sweet potatoes and 60 hectares of organic sweet potatoes.
"The conventional acreage is relatively stable, but we are expecting the organic acreage to grow to 400 hectares within three years," says Kristi Hocutt during the London Produce Show. "This year the market is considerably better than the last."
"The conventional acreage is relatively stable, but we are expecting the organic acreage to grow to 400 hectares within three years," says Kristi Hocutt during the London Produce Show. "This year the market is considerably better than the last."
Europe is an important market for Triple J Produce sweet potatoes. Approximately 20% of the total sales goes to Europe and Kristi expects that this percentage can increase to 30-40%. "The sales started in the UK, and for us it is a challenge to bring the sweet potatoes to the market elsewhere in Europe." Interestingly enough, the UK does not follow in the organic trend, which according to the sales manager is much stronger elsewhere in Europe. "I am not sure why that is so."
Covington
According to Kristi, the American state of North Carolina has little competition when it comes to sweet potatoes. "Our Covinton variety is very popular and no one can beat our productions. Spain is the second producer, but actually, you can't compare that production with ours. The future for sweet potatoes looks very positive. More consumers are aware of the health benefits that this product has to offer. "
For more information:
Triple J Produce
Kristi Hocutt
Tel: 252-289-8326
kristi@triplejproduce.com
www.triplejproduce.com