The Western Australian french fry processing industry is bouncing back, according to the state’s peak industry body, after suffering “a dramatic effect” from COVID-19, with sales crashing when lockdown restrictions were implemented, according to a report by Fresh Plaza’s Matt Russell.
However, WA Potatoes CEO Simon Moltoni says since WA has reopened, demand has returned to normal and sales have been quite strong.
“A concern going forward is that this has been an international issue; creating a significant oversupply that has the potential to end up on the Australian market,” he said. “The potato industry has been lobbying the Federal Government to ensure that no dumping of frozen product occurs. Overall, volumes remain steady. The fresh and processing markets remain firm. Export of both ware and seed has seen incremental growth.”
WA Potatoes Senior Project Manager, Georgia Thomas added that the WA industry has reported high demand for potatoes this winter led by a range of factors across the year including higher online sales.
“Potatoes are seen as a hardy vegetable with a good shelf life that holds up well, particularly when purchased online from supermarkets,” she said. “Additionally, there has been a noticeable shift in sentiment towards locally grown produce and supporting farmers.”
Source: FreshPlaza. Read the full story here
Photo credit: Anton Blume
