Issues in the UK potato sector require closer relationships

Better relationships between UK potato growers and the rest of the supply chain are needed if the sector is to cope with its current downturn.

The fresh potato industry has been hit by declining consumption combined with good production over the past two years which has led to dangerously high stocks, and a subsequent crash in price.

The Potato Council has voiced concerns over how the stocks, estimated to be equivalent to two boxes per hectare in November, will be consumed by the industry, and sector chiefs have warned of the need for a 10 per cent cut in production in the forthcoming season.

Herefordshire potato grower and Potato Council board member Bill Quan said: “I think to get through this both sides need to stick together, the farmer and the buyer need to help each other.

He urged farmers not to grow without a firm idea of where their potatoes would be sold.

He said: “We have to get close to our customer. Do not grow for the unknown and make sure you have a market.”

For the week ended February 20, the GB weekly average was £125.20/tonne, down £23/t on last year. The GB free buy average was down £85.96/t, down £59.11/t.