The Potato Weekly report has been released by AHDB, and the prices of potatoes are still being pressured in some markets. The processing market seems stable for now.
Free-buy markets continue to see pressure on prices. Increasingly available supply for markets has met a widespread muted level of demand.
Trade has remained on a steady level, consisting of mostly repeat orders. Contracted movement continues to dominate potato markets with a smaller level of free-buy tonnage reported. Cooler temperatures brought some small instances of fresh demand.
Frequent bands of rainfall fell across the country, though somewhat welcomed, has paused lifting for many growers. Those on lighter lands saw a day or two’s worth of delays, whilst heavier soils expecting a slightly longer delay. There has been some internal quality issues reported following crop stress with periods of hot temperatures and increased rainfall levels.
Movement of supplies in packing markets continues to be largely on a contracted basis, as such demand for free-buy supplies is very quiet, especially for general whites.
Set skin supplies of red potatoes remain difficult to find and so prices have risen to reflect this scarcity.
Maris Piper continues to command a premium to other ‘white’ varieties, the well-known name is a popular choice for consumers. There has been some quality issues reported in some Maris Piper supplies.
Bags
Prices have mostly stood on last week, with repeat orders and contracted movement forming the lion’s share of movement for bag markets this week.
There was some very slight price increases following the temporary pause to lifting, though gains were capped by the large amount of supply available.
Regional price differences offers a degree of pressure to markets also, with haulage prices the main factor in tonnage movement between regions.
The ‘Eat Out to Help Out’ government voucher has resulted in some chip shops seeing a decreased level of demand with other ‘50% off’ meal options preferred.
Processing
Processing markets have been reported as steady this week, with some better levels of demand for frozen potato products following the government ‘Eat Out to Help Out’ voucher scheme.
Processing markets look to the return of education sectors for an increased level of demand in the next few weeks.
Demand for Maris Piper continues, somewhat on the basis of the name being a popular option for consumers.
Exports
Exports to the Canary Islands are continuing this week. However due to a smaller sample we are unable to publish prices.
Exports have reportedly started the season strongly, following a poorer domestic harvest for the Island.
Source: AHDB