Cutbacks in potato process contracts could push some growers out

A major plan to beef up potato sales is well underway by the P.E.I. Potato Board and the province, but some of the air leaked out of the tires this week with the announcement that processing companies are cutting back.

McCains confirmed it would cut about 20 growers from its processing contracts this season while Cavendish Farms is expected to drop about 10 to 15 as well.

“We’re definitely concerned about this and not happy that there is a possibility we will lose some growers from the industry,” Greg Donald, executive director of the P.E.I. Potato Board, said Friday.

“We’re recommending that growers only plant acres with secured markets because it creates tremendous risk without a market.”

Donald unveiled the marketing strategy that has enjoyed some successes at the International Potato Technology Expo at the Charlottetown Civic Centre Friday morning where growers were gathered for the trade show and work conferences.

“The new plan incorporates better communication and partnerships and more export marketing strategies,’’ he said. “We need to provide what consumers want in other (international) export markets.”