Fast Food/Quick Service Restaurants

McCain’s inaugural global ‘Spud Report’ finds fries crossing cultures, generations and borders

A McCain Foods survey of over 12,000 adults from 11 countries revealed that French fries are the most favored potato dish globally. The Spud Report highlighted fries’ emotional significance as comfort food linked to happiness and social interactions. Findings showed cultural variations in consumption patterns, with fries seen as snacks in India and China, while other nations viewed them as meal accompaniments. McCain intends to implement regenerative agriculture practices by 2030, linking consumer preferences to farming practices.

August 28, 2026

Frozen potato snacks market shaped by convenience, foodservice demand and product innovation, says The Insight Partners

The global frozen potato snacks market is experiencing growth driven by consumer demand for convenient, ready-to-cook options and the influence of busy lifestyles. Key products include french fries and tater tots, enhanced by advancements in freezing technology and packaging. Opportunities in retail and foodservice, along with a focus on healthier and sustainable options, are noted. Strategic partnerships and online grocery shopping further support market expansion.

June 24, 2026

Potato processing enters a new era: Why the next battle will be won before the crop reaches the factory

The global potato processing sector is evolving beyond traditional products like French fries to encompass quality management, sustainability, and technological integration. With growing demand, processors face challenges such as volatile costs and environmental pressures. Future success hinges on strong relationships with growers, data-driven automation, and efficient resource use. The industry must adapt to shifting market dynamics, prioritizing comprehensive processing strategies for enhanced profitability and sustainability.

June 19, 2026

Frozen potato consumption outlook: Updated demand view now available

The frozen potato market is undergoing significant changes as growth persists amidst price, margin, and demand pressures. A recent report outlines shifting consumer behavior and regional economic impacts, revealing reduced market value despite a volume increase. Geographic disparities in demand and rising costs complicate the landscape. Future growth remains expected but at a slower rate, highlighting the need for processors to adapt and focus on genuine consumption trends for informed strategies.

May 19, 2026

Canada: GLP-1 drugs, changing eating habits could have consequences for Prince Edward Island’s potato industry

Prince Edward Island potato farmers are facing a challenge as they prepare to plant for 2026, driven not by weather or fertilizer costs but by changing consumer behavior due to the increasing use of GLP-1 agonists, medications for diabetes and weight loss. A national survey found that nearly 1.9 million Canadians are using these drugs, significantly impacting the potato market and food consumption habits.

March 30, 2026

Fast-food value compared: NetCredit study ranks burgers and fries across 14 U.S. chains

A new NetCredit study compares standard cheeseburgers and fries at 14 major U.S. fast-food chains and finds that value depends on more than menu price alone. Using patty and fries weights, published nutrition data, and normalized national pricing, the study ranks chains on cost per ounce, portion size, protein density, and calorie concentration. Whataburger led on burger value, Shake Shack topped fries value, and Five Guys served the largest fries portion.

March 5, 2026

Potato farmers celebrate centuries of growth in nation’s ‘snack food capital’ at Pennsylvania Farm Show

Potatoes, essential to American cuisine, have a deep-rooted history in Pennsylvania and over 30 other states, playing a vital role in agriculture and nutrition, as highlighted at the 2026 Pennsylvania Farm Show. Nathan Tallman, CEO of the Pennsylvania Co-operative Potato Growers, emphasized the crop’s evolution through technology and consumer preferences, showcasing hundreds of potato varieties and numerous recipes that celebrate potatoes’ importance.

January 20, 2026

Competition changes the rules in the fries market

The global French fries market has shifted dramatically, with Asia increasingly dominating due to falling prices and rapidly growing production in countries like China and India. Traditional producers in the US and Northwest Europe face challenges as low-cost exporters capture market share and average import prices in Asia decline. Despite overall robust demand for frozen potato products, structural overproduction in Europe and competitive pricing pressures complicate the landscape, prompting adaptations from established manufacturers.

January 17, 2026

Beyond Europe: The new geography of the French fries trade

The global French fries trade is evolving, with rising demand fueled by urbanization and fast-food growth. While Europe and North America maintain strong consumption, emerging economies like Saudi Arabia and Brazil are seeing dynamic expansion. Europe leads in exports, yet Asia, particularly China and India, is becoming a powerhouse with growing processing capabilities. These insights are part of DCA Market Intelligence’s latest whitepaper, which can be downloaded for free.

October 3, 2025

Signals from the potato fry industry: Lamb Weston delivers volume gains but faces rising costs

Lamb Weston Holdings, Inc. reported mixed results for Q1 of fiscal 2026, with net sales of US$1.66 billion, flat year-over-year. While global volumes rose 6 percent, profit margins faced strain due to a 26 percent drop in operating income and a 50 percent fall in net income. The company is executing a cost savings program aiming for US$250 million by FY 2028, reinforcing its commitment to efficiency amid ongoing market pressures.

September 30, 2025

Gujarat’s frozen fries boom: Transforming India into a potato export powerhouse

Gujarat’s Mehsana district has become a vital center for India’s frozen potato exports, contributing to a ninefold increase to ₹1,817 crore in FY25. Companies like Hyfun Foods and contract farming support economic growth, reducing import dependency from 70% to under 20%. The initiative aids 15,000 farmers, boosts rural prosperity, and presents challenges like water scarcity, necessitating government support for sustainable solutions to maintain this upward momentum.

September 27, 2025

Simplot’s contract price cuts to farmers and imported frozen fries threaten future of Tasmania’s potato growers

Farmers in Tasmania’s potato industry are facing a potential 39% profit decline due to supermarkets opting for cheaper foreign supplies and a price cut from Simplot Australia. As import volumes from India and China rise, local growers fear losing their capacity to produce staple products. Industry representatives warn that diminishing domestic processing could jeopardize Australia’s food security, highlighting a pressing need for change in negotiations and pricing strategies.

September 26, 2025

India’s frozen French fry sector: Expanding capacity, growing exports, and the road ahead

This article, by Lukie Pieterse of Potato News Today, provides an overview of India’s rapidly expanding frozen French fry sector, with Gujarat as its core hub and new processing hubs emerging in Madhya Pradesh and Punjab. Once an importer, India now exports more fries than it consumes domestically, supplying Gulf and Southeast Asian markets. With major investments from McCain, HyFun, Iscon Balaji, Falcon Agrifriz, and Himalaya Food, processing capacity is expected to double by 2027.

August 19, 2025

EU potato market 2025 on collision course: Looming overproduction and pressure on French fries export

The European potato market is experiencing increased pressure due to a significant rise in processing potato acreage, growing by 7.5% to over 600,000 hectares, according to a DCA Market Intelligence report. Despite a potential record harvest, stagnating fries exports and competition from low-cost countries like India and China pose challenges. High production costs, alongside risks from overproduction without contracts, threaten farmers and processors.

July 23, 2025

North America’s frozen potato market poised for steady growth through 2035

The North American frozen potato market, according to a report by IndexBox, is set for steady growth, forecasting a 1.5% CAGR in volume, reaching 3.8 million tons by 2035, and a 1.7% annual value increase to $5.5 billion. While consumption slightly dipped in 2024, demand remains strong, especially in the U.S., which dominates the market. Increased production, imports, and a robust export environment further bolster the optimistic long-term outlook for the sector.

July 22, 2025

Lamb Weston’s SWOT analysis: Frozen potato giant faces industry headwinds

Lamb Weston Holdings, with a market cap of $7.4 billion, is facing significant challenges in the frozen potato industry, impacting its stock price, which is down over 34% this past year. Recent developments include a cooperation agreement with JANA Partners LLC and Continental Grain Company to enhance its board expertise. Analysts express concerns over decreased restaurant traffic and competition affecting demand, alongside a recent CEO departure.

July 7, 2025

Frozen fries to premium snacks: How processed potatoes are shaping the future of global trade

Processed potato products are driving a new era of global trade growth, writes Lukie Pieterse in this article. From frozen fries to premium snacks, demand is surging across emerging markets, while processors are developing regional hubs, innovating with health-focused and sustainable products, and tailoring offerings to local tastes. Premium, differentiated exports present strong opportunities. This in-depth feature explores how processors are shaping the future of the potato industry—building resilient, consumer-aligned, and globally competitive value chains.

June 6, 2025

China’s rapid rise as frozen fries giant: Reshaping global French fry trade with rapid growth and competitive exports

China’s potato processing sector is emerging as a key player in the global frozen French fries market, driven by investments and a rise in domestic consumption. The proliferation of Western fast-food chains contributes significantly to this growth. Exports surged in 2024, positioning China favorably against traditional suppliers. However, challenges remain, including seasonal harvesting limitations and quality consistency as the industry adapts to global shifts in demand.

April 29, 2025

How HyFun Foods leverages AI & IoT to transform potato processing for frozen snacks

HyFun Foods, founded in 2015 by Haresh Karamchandani, is revolutionizing the frozen potato snack industry in India through AI and IoT integration. The company serves major QSR brands like Burger King, KFC, Pizza Hut, and Domino’s. HyFun collaborates with 7,500 farmers and exports to over 40 countries, enhancing global competitiveness. The company employs AI and IoT to enhance production efficiency.

April 2, 2025

Spudway: Britain’s Subway sandwiches pivots to jacket potatoes as ‘demand soars’

Subway will launch jacket potatoes, branded “Spudway,” in 170 UK stores amid rising demand for this British staple. The trial, set to run until mid-April, will feature various fillings like cheese and beans, tuna mayo, chicken tikka, and taco beef. Subway’s boss, Deniz Safa, stated the chain aims to provide customizable options reflecting changing consumer preferences, using British potatoes and generous toppings.

February 20, 2025

Shake-up at one of the world’s biggest frozen french fry makers: Lamb Weston appoints new CEO

Lamb Weston, a major supplier of frozen french fries, has appointed Michael J. Smith as its new CEO following a surprise loss in the second quarter due to decreased consumer spending on dining out. The company, which produces 80 million fry servings daily, has seen share prices drop over 40% this year. Smith, currently COO, will succeed Thomas P. Werner on January 3, 2025, who will advise until August 2025.

December 19, 2024

Frozen potato giant Lamb Weston faces headwinds, updates financial guidance for fiscal 2025

Lamb Weston Holdings, Inc. reported lower-than-expected second-quarter results for fiscal 2025, citing increased manufacturing costs and decreased volumes. The company anticipates ongoing challenges into fiscal 2026 due to rising capacity and declining global frozen potato demand, prompting a downgrade of its financial targets. Efforts to cut costs and improve operations are underway to safeguard profitability while addressing these market pressures.

December 19, 2024

Potato processing market projected to soar: Tech and health trends propel market to new heights

The global potato processing market is projected to grow from USD 40.97 billion in 2023 to USD 60.08 billion by 2031, with a CAGR of 4.90%. Key drivers include the rising demand for healthier snacks, convenience, and plant-based diets. Technological advancements are enhancing production efficiency, while emerging markets are expanding consumer reach. The increasing popularity of diverse snacking options also supports market growth.

December 19, 2024

9 fast-food chains in the U.S. that use fresh-cut potatoes for their fries

French fries are a beloved fast-food companion, but not all are equal. Many chains like McDonald’s use frozen fries for efficiency, while others pride themselves on serving fresh-cut fries. An article by Brianna Ruback reveals nine fast-food places prioritizing fry freshness, ensuring you can enjoy quality alongside your burger or fried chicken sandwich. These include various burger chains and a barbecue spot.

December 14, 2024

Global expansion: India’s HyFun Foods partners with Woolworths to launch premium frozen foods in Australia

HyFun Foods has partnered with Woolworths to introduce its range of hash browns and tots to over 1,000 Australian stores under the “Your Spud Co” label. This collaboration enhances HyFun’s global footprint and leverages Woolworths’ extensive reach to meet the increasing demand for premium frozen food. Both companies aim to provide high-quality, convenient options, reflecting the growing acceptance of Indian products internationally.

December 8, 2024