Ireland Reports A Positive Potato Market Trend

In a recent press release, the Irish Farmers' Association (IFA) revealed that potato trade remains positive and reports from growers indicate that there is increased demand over the past week. Plantings have resumed in parts of the country, but ground conditions are still very difficult. Although stocks remaining in store are similar to last year’s levels, early plantings and harvest were staggered last year. Liftings of stock in the ground since last year has also continued, however, quality remains a concern.

On the contrary, in the U.K., trade appears to have slowed down recently, nevertheless, demand for top quality material remains firm. Plenty of recently lifted supplies are seen on the market. Some planting schedules in the U.K. are now reportedly two weeks behind schedule, with sodden ground conditions.

The first early liftings have begun in Majorca recently, but the yields of the earliest crops are disappointing, due to extensive wind damage.

Ex-Farm Potato Prices reported by IFA:

Low High Average

Rooster box EUR 3.30 EUR 3.80 EUR 3.50

Rooster10 kg bag EUR 3.30 EUR 4.00 EUR 3.50

Whites box EUR 3.20 EUR 3.70 EUR 3.50

K Pinks 10kg bag EUR 4.20 EUR 5.00 EUR 4.50

Golden Wonder 10kg bag EUR 5.00 EUR 6.00 EUR 5.50