Spud growers stand to lose millions

By FWi staff

POTATO growers are facing losses of millions of pounds as unharvested crops become unsalvageable, claims the British Potato Council.

“There are still 17,360ha left in the ground, and growers and traders now feel that little of that will be marketable,” says the BPCs Rob Burrow.

“At an average yield of 41t/ha and an average price of 118/t, the loss to the industry runs into millions.”

Last week saw the first signs in the market of a slight upward movement for above average stock.

“Up until now there has been very little effect on prices, which is unusual. The reason is the flow of imports, keeping a lid on prices for medium and lower quality material.

“And resistance from retailers to buy has limited big rises at the top end,” says Mr Burrow.

He believes that as the season progresses, there will be further price increases for quality material, but imports will continue to hinder rises for more ordinary potatoes.

“Looking longer term, the trend of growers leaving potatoes will continue, and there is unlikely to be an increase in the planted area – it could even be smaller,” adds Mr Burrow.

In the south and Wales, bulk whites are averaging 160-180/t up to 250/t for best Marfona. Bagged whites are mostly 90-120/t, reds 100-135/t.

Bulk whites in eastern and western regions are mostly 120-210/t up to 250/t for best Maris Piper and 255/t for top Edward.

Reds are worth up to 230/t. Bagged whites are fetching 60-135/t, up to 190/t for best Maris Piper. Reds are worth 60-140/t.

In Scotland, bulk Edward are worth 130-170/t, reds and Maris Piper 130/t. Other whites are averaging 140-160/t.

Further south, Edward are fetching up to 220/t, 200/t for Estima. Reds are weaker at 100-150/t.

Bagged Maris Piper are fetching up to 110/t in Scotland and 150/t in northern England.

The BPC weekly GB ex-farm average price was steady last week at 118.61/t, excluding bags.