This week, free-buy trade has been reportedly mixed. Though for most, the consensus remains that free-buy demand has been lacklustre. Potato markets are yet to see large benefits from Monday’s reopening of indoor hospitality. However as we head towards June, hope remains for improved weather to boost demand. Quality remains crucial in free-buy markets, with tightening supply of top-quality material for sought after varieties.
Market commentary
Packing
- Free-buy demand remained relatively steady this week, with most trade fulfilled on contract.
- Some reports of increasing volumes moved have been noted from the opening of food service. However for the majority, demand for Whites has been lacking.
- Maris Piper continues to be the sought-after variety, with the median English Maris Piper price (£300/t) commanding a £212/t premium to the White’s median price. In Scotland, this premium increased to £100/t.
- Conversely for Whites, plentiful supply is reportedly still struggling to find a home in the market.
Bags
- Poor weather has dampened demand for bags this week, with comparatively slow trade for most compared to recent weeks.
- High quality samples of desired varieties are still dominating high prices and sale.
- Agria top price gained again on the week due to concerns of tight supply, increasing £10/t to £380/t for top quality material.
Processing
- The opening of restaurants and pubs indoors this week has reportedly stimulated some demand in the processing sector, a relief after months of outlet closures.
- Maris Piper remains the favoured variety in processing markets, though reports indicate Whites have benefitted from a small boost in volume this week with Maris Piper harder to source.
Exports
- Reports are that the export season has come to a close. No prices have been quoted this week.