Although the potato market is in quite a slump, price-wise, Bram Werkman from Landjuweel in Oosternieland, the Netherlands, also sees plenty of bright spots. “I understand the negative mood from a farmer’s point of view, but there are plenty of positive things from our point of view. There’s a sufficient amount of good quality potatoes, and regular sales to supermarkets are higher than last year. More promotions can be done compared to last year, when everything was too expensive, and supermarkets are quite active with promotions. It’s easier for us to put potatoes, even special varieties, in the spotlight for consumers.”
“It is and will remain a special situation. The harvest started six to eight weeks later. Plenty of supply is becoming available now, but it took a while. Yields are considerable, although there will always be a bit of pressure from batches that can’t be stored for longer periods, or are lost. There’s much diversity regarding that. When there are more potatoes of poorer quality, it always puts pressure on prices. Growers will have to say goodbye to loose product earlier this year. On the other hand, we can sell the potatoes harvested last quite well. In my opinion, harvesting damages aren’t too bad, although the colour of the potatoes is a bit poorer this year,” Bram continues.
For more information:
Bram Werkman
Landjuweel
Oosternielandsterweg 9
9985 SB Oosternieland
Tel.: +31 (0)595 45 42 00
Fax: +31 (0)595 41 34 46
www.landjuweel.nl