The packing sector remains the dominant source of demand for potatoes. Although traded volumes differ significantly, Maris Piper is obtaining a premium over Whites in both the packing and processing sectors.
The processing and chipping trade are both still battling with the closure of much of the hospitality industry. Prices have remained stable, but volumes are still disappointing.
Packing
Packing markets remain the busier outlet for the potato industry, although much of the demand is still being covered by contracted material. That said, there is a steady demand for free-buy supply keeping prices relatively stable week-on-week.
Maris Piper continues to gain a premium over Whites in both England and Scotland. There has been limited reports of free-buy Salad potatoes moving this week, although contracted material is moving off-farm.
Image: AHDB
Bags
- Trade remains slow for the bagging sector, particularly into fish and chip shops.
- With lockdown measures still in place, coupled with usual seasonal trends, reduced trade is not unexpected. However, this double whammy appears to be drawing trade back more than usual for the time of year.
- Prices have remained stable, though volumes are described as “very poor”.
- Government announcements, due later this month, are hoped to boost the public’s confidence, potentially resulting in increased footfall. This could help to bring back some fish and chip shop trade.
- Bagged potatoes into farm shops seem to have some demand trickling along, but are not seeing bolstered sales like the first lockdown in March 2020.
For more information:
AHDB Potatoes
Stoneleigh Park, Kenilworth
Warwickshire, CV8 2TL
Tel: +44 02476692051
E-mail: comms@ahdb.org.uk
Web: ahdb.org.uk/potatoes