Little movement in the market over the last week, due to current lockdown measures slowing trade across much of the UK. Prices have stayed relatively stable; ranging quality causing some price fluctuations. Reports have been received of some lower quality material due to bruising and water logging. Export demand has remained firmer than domestic demand, particularly supported by strong consumption in the Canary Islands.
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Packing
The packing sector has been less affected by the second national lockdown due to good retail demand. Christmas trade should continue to provide support throughout December.
England
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Scotland
Bags
A quiet week on the bags front, largely in line with the previous week. Demand remains subdued due to the current lockdown, with free-buy sales ticking along slowly. There have been some reports of demand slightly picking up again the week, which may continue as we move out of lockdown and into the tier system and in the run up to Christmas. Some waterlog damage is becoming apparent in areas where heavy rainfall delayed lifting. Some varieties are reporting degrees of deteriorating quality.
East
West
South
Processing
Demand has remained slow, again at similar levels to last week. Maris Piper is the only variety receiving much interest. Prices have stayed in line with last week, apart from an increase in the high end of Maris Piper as a result of good demand.
Exports
Despite the current lockdown, exports to the Canary Islands have remained firm. This is due to core demand from the domestic supermarket market, where sales have remained strong. There are also reports of small tonnages of fresh potatoes moving into Northern Ireland. Unfortunately, we are unable to publish prices due to data thresholds not being met.
