Market report: Increased availability dampens UK potato prices

As January draws to a close, market participants report limited trade activity alongside high availability on the UK’s free-buy market, particularly for white potatoes, according to Harry Campbell, market reporter at Expana.

Campbell points out that the Expana benchmark price (EBP) for English white potatoes was £340/mt on January 28, flat month-on-month (m-o-m), while the EBP for Scottish whites was £320/mt, reflecting a 3% decline over the same period. Potatoes with a higher baker content (above 50%) command a premium over standard grade 1 English white packing potatoes.

Following strong demand and rising prices in December, typically the peak sales period for potatoes, many buyers are now largely covered through contracts. This has contributed to stable and falling prices in January as growers seek to move stock.

A market source told Expana that while the exact crop size remains uncertain, the 2024/25 marketing year (MY) has had higher availability than 2023/24 MY and, depending on demand levels, excess potatoes could remain available towards the end of the season.

The English Maris Piper EBP currently stands at £380/MT, up 5.5% m-o-m. Though trade has been limited, market players report challenges in sourcing the variety.