Looking ahead at the 2025 potato crop, it is progressing well across most major growing regions. "Early indicators point to strong yields and excellent quality, and we're bullish on volume coming out of Idaho, Colorado, Wisconsin, and the Red River Valley," says Drew Callaghan, executive vice president at RPE. "While harvest is still ahead—and Mother Nature always has the final say—the industry is optimistic about another year of strong availability."
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Thanks to optimal weather, the season is running slightly ahead of schedule. "Growers closed rows early and are seeing strong set and bulk on plants—days, even a week or two, ahead of normal," says Callaghan, adding that the early start allows the industry to enter the new crop window sooner and capitalize on Q4's prime shipping season with top-tier quality.
Meanwhile, the current supply of potatoes is on par or slightly ahead of last year, bolstered by late storage volume from Idaho and Colorado. While heat has put some pressure on crops in shoulder regions, overall yield expectations remain aligned with historical trendlines.
Varietal notes
Callaghan adds that California produced a particularly strong organic crop this year, which creates year-round shipping opportunities across Golds, Reds, and Russets. "Count-sized Russets, in particular, are plentiful—an important win for retailers leaning into organic offerings as a key point of differentiation and customer retention," he says.
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As for demand, it has been steady through the summer, and RPE's focus now is preparing customer programs for the arrival of the new crop. "We're already in conversations with retailers to feature potatoes prominently in-store this season, given their high household penetration and consistent presence in the shopping basket," says Callaghan. "Consumers continue to seek healthy, affordable staples—and this year's potato crop presents an excellent opportunity for retailers to drive basket size and repeat trips by pricing potatoes strategically."
On pricing, it is in line with this time last year, with the market poised for strength due to superior quality. "Wisconsin growers are aiming to rebound after a weather-challenged season in 2024, while Colorado and Idaho appear set for another year of strong, promotable volume," adds Callaghan.
For more information:
Drew Callaghan
RPE, LLC
Tel: +1 (267) 566-5246
[email protected]
https://www.rpespud.com/
