Potato prices jumped sharply last week, as cold weather continued to disrupt movement between farms, packers and retailers.

The Potato Council’s GB free market average rose by £5.17 to £170.86/t – almost £81/t higher than the same week last year, as movement remained disrupted and packers secured quality stock for Christmas requirements. That boosted the weekly average price by £12.55, to £161.07/t, with the help of better processing and packing contract values.

“Demand from packers is starting to increase in line with more normal pre-Christmas programmes, but overall volume of movement remained disrupted last week due to a reluctance to load in the wintry weather conditions,” said a Potato Council report.

“There were also continued transport problems in getting to and from farms, as well as from packers to retailers. Free market interest in best quality stocks is very strong and as a result prices felt strong upward pressure, particularly in areas where supplies were lightest.” However, resistance from buyers meant general pack markets remained steady.

Chipping demand had been knocked by the cold weather, but showed signs of improving in the run-up to Christmas, it added. “Supplies are adequate with prices generally unchanged, although some growers are receiving £5-10/t increases for best samples.”

Market Report