Tesco Commits to Selling Chipping Varieties

More British potatoes will hit shelves this week to meet the soaring demand. UK potato growers who have been left with surplus stock because of the closure of restaurants and fast food outlets are being given a helping hand by Tesco, according to a company press release.

The closure of restaurants, pubs and many fast food outlets has left a major surplus of particular varieties that are made into chips, which potato growers cannot sell anywhere else, Tesco says in the release.

Now Tesco has teamed up with potato supplier Branston, to take these potatoes that were previously destined for the catering trade. These ‘chipping varieties’ may have some skin blemishes but are perfectly delicious; they will be sold as part of Tesco’s ‘Perfectly Imperfect’ range. The bags will carry a sticker stating ‘I’m not looking my normal gorgeous self but I still taste great, buy me and support British farmers’.

Since March, Tesco has seen increased demand for potatoes, with an average rise of 30% across UK stores.

"Taking these surplus potatoes not only helps meet the extra demand at the moment but also supports growers at a time when many are facing a real struggle to keep their businesses going," said Tesco Potato Buying Manager, Ben Rowbotham.

Branston Commercial Director Richard Clark added: "We are working with Tesco to support our potato growers and ensure we honor our existing contracts with them."