Retail sales for potatoes remained the same this week and the food service sector is likely to see more activity over the holiday weekend. The demand for peeled potatoes remains positive, and prices remain at the same level. Early planting has begun as soil conditions improve. If conditions allow, good progress would be made this weekend.
In Europe, the market for consumer potatoes is reportedly flat, but there is a good export movement. Sales of the product from the EU to the UK amounted to 818,418 tons and increased by 13.2% in the year to October 2022.
In the UK, early planting has begun. There was frost on the ground in some places, but the conditions are “surprisingly good” and the planting of the First Lady Rosetta is imminent. The trade is slow, but the sellers are hoping for higher values. Buyers want quality samples but are not willing to pay the price. Occasionally there is a small increase for premium potatoes and branded products.
