Revised potato plantings show changed mix

By FWi Staff

REVISED planting estimates for the 1998 crop, published this week by the British Potato Council, had little effect on the already steady market.

The total registered area stands at 140,176ha, which is all but unchanged on 1997s 140,474. There were however changes in the ratios planted. As was predicted by the BPC, early varieties declined by over 16% to 10,366ha, while second earlies increased just over 2% to 48,901ha. This compares with 47,765ha in 1997. Maincrop varieties fell by 1.5% to 91,275ha.

Notable changes have been seen in varieties grown with Maris Piper, increasing by 25% to 27,027ha, making it the most popular among growers. This was followed by Estima at 14,673ha and Cara at 8,319ha.

Markets have continued the downward trend seen in recent weeks. However, demand for packing material remains strong while there is little demand for poor ware material. Bulk trade starts from £50/t, with value pack £65-£100 and washing material £120-£140. Best prices can be as much as £160-£200.

Bag supplies were under pressure this week, said the BPC, although chipping Piper are steady at £100-£140. Other samples are reported to be slow, from £70, but mainly £80-£110.

Weather conditions influenced futures traders this week, with April 1999 contracts inching to £175 in London and £121 in Amsterdam by the close of yesterday (Thursday). Despite increased storage and the wet weather, physical markets have continued to struggle to remain stable this week.

The BPC weekly GB ex-farm average price inched 82p to £115.16/t. This compares with £ 64.04/t in 1997 £62.25 in 1996. The ware only average edged £2.32 to £126.60/t.