An Easter boost has been felt by some this week, particularly in the bags sector. However, for many, trade remains slow. A backlog of packing Whites continues this week, with quality a key factor for price and sale across the board. Planting is progressing nicely, as a result of the warm weather seen this week.
Market Commentary
Packing
- Maris Piper and King Edwards are reportedly high in demand in free-buy packing markets.
- Maris Piper median prices have firmed slightly further, gaining an extra £5/t on the week.
- Most trade continues to be fulfilled on contract this week. As a result, free-buy Whites demand is said to be slow, with reports of plentiful supply. This is said to have added some pressure to prices, although not enough to alter the median.
Image: AHBD
Bags
- The easing of lockdown restrictions across England this week, alongside good weather seen by many, has energised some demand for chipping potatoes.
- Most reports were of busier trade this week, with the hope that this signifies the start of more buoyant trade to come.
- Top quality Agria continues to firm, as demand exceeds sparse supply.
- Markies have also firmed this week on the back of increased demand.
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