Big changes afoot in the potato market

Big changes are afoot this week as retailers move over from Jersey Royals to UK-sourced earlies, says Peter Cooper from market analyst Potato Call.

“The UK early harvest is off to a slow start but is gaining pace as multiples start to show increased interest. The wholesale market remains poor and shows no signs of picking up,” he adds.

Total Jersey exports yesterday (May 12) were 33,568t, on a par with last year, and volumes will start to wind down as the season draws to a close.

Cornish earlies are also drawing to a close. Some growers forced the trade last week and the market has collapsed.

Prices yesterday ranged from 60-100/t in bags and 80-130/t bulk.

In Kent prices were between 80-110/t in bags and in Pembroke bagged trade is fetching up to 130/t as is graded material.

Meanwhile, the final sprint to complete planting is still stuck in the starting blocks.

“More unsettled weather last week has yet again disrupted planting and several farmers on heavier soils have abandoned attempts to plant at this late stage,” says Rob Burrow of BPC.

Movement of old crop packing material remains slow. Multiples continue to hold their prices as buyers struggle to find the right quality.

Bulk grade 1 material is still firming with Piper up to 90/t, most 60-80/t. Estima are worth 130/t in the Midlands and up to 200/t in the east.

Edwards are fetching up to 130/t, with best reds making 100/t in the east and south.

Grade 2 material is mainly 20-45/t.

Best bag Piper are fetching 60-80/t with the odd 200/t in the east. Others are mostly 33-50/t with 90/t for best whites.

The weekly GB ex-farm average edged up another 0.75p last week to 76.39/t. this compares with a falling market of 134.45/t last year and 150.24/t in 1998.