European and UK Potato Growers are Pushing for Higher Prices

Across Europe, potato liftings are almost complete and the availability of supplies directly from the field has almost come to an end. With crops in store, growers are now pushing for higher prices.

“There are quality issues with the crop including growth cracks, but to date, there have been very few rejections,” according to the latest Irish Farmers' Association (IFA) report.

In terms of exports, there is good volume movement to the Canaries again this week. Prices are described as firm and holding and there has been an odd increase for frying varieties.

In the UK, M. Piper prices remain firm with most crop in store. Again, growers are pushing for higher prices as buyers are having difficulty sourcing the best quality samples out of the store.

In Ireland, Fertilizer Costs are Very Uncertain

Based on the same IFA report, input costs for the upcoming season remain the main concern for growers at present, fertilizer costs, in particular, are very uncertain.

Consumption has improved slightly as colder weather sets in. Demand for the foodservice sector remains resilient.

Liftings continued where the crop remains in the ground over the last week. Right now, many growers are now finished with the procedure.

Excellent quality of native varieties Kerr Pinks and Golden Wonders have been reported to date however, yields appear to be like those registered last year.