According to information published in the Irish Farmers Association’s weekly potato report, there were mixed reviews on trade in the food-sector service over the weekend as pubs and restaurants began to re-open. Retail demand remains buoyant with colder weather than expected for July so far.
Queens continue to come onto the market and volumes are now increasing and demand to date is reported to be quite good with prices in the region of €1000/tonne in tonne boxes.
Wet weather conditions have aided the development of main crop, however, growers are advised that blight may become an issue.
Similarly, in the U.K. the corona virus situation continues to impede demand across all sectors. Many old-crop contracts are being cleared up in the packing market and new-crop potato demand is also covered mostly on contract. Demand remains lethargic for free-buy new-crop. It seems retailers are generally running off mostly contracted supply and chip shops are generally experiencing quiet trade.
In Europe improved growing conditions are reported over the last week, particularly in Eastern Europe. Market disruption remains in place, with fears of a ‘second-wave’ in some countries. Processing activity continues to re-open and is returning faster than expected in some countries.
Ex-Farm Potato Prices reported to IFA
| Low | High | Average | |
| Rooster box | €330 | €380 | €350 |
| Rooster 10 kg bag | €3.30 | €4.00 | €3.50 |
| Whites box | €320 | €370 | €350 |
| K Pinks 10kg bag | €4.20 | €5.00 | €4.50 |
| Golden Wonder 10kg bag | €5.00 | €6.00 | €5.50 |
Source: IFA
Photo: Irish Times
