Potato News from Northern America

United States retail sales of potatoes maintained strong volume over the nine months from July 2024 to March 2025. Despite a small (-0.5%) drop in dollar sales to USD 14.72 billion

Chick-fil-A launches new menu items Aug. 18, including the Pretzel Cheddar Club Sandwich, Cherry Berry beverages, and Waffle Potato Chips in Original and Chick-fil-A Sauce flavors, available as a side, snack, or retail bag in select locations.

Drought across Maine, with 80% of the state affected, threatens potato harvests. Experts warn stunted growth, urging irrigation. The USD 1.3 Billion industry faces risks as relief isn’t expected until early autumn.

Agristo, a leading Belgian potato processor with six global branches, will invest USD 450M in its first North American facility in Grand Forks. Construction starts 2026, with production set for fall 2028.

Chef Catherine McCord teams up with McCain® Foods this back-to-school season to make mealtime easier and more joyful. McCain® Smiles—crispy, fun potato sides ready in under 10 minutes—bring families together with simple recipes and shared smiles.

Reading Bakery Systems (RBS), a global leader in snack food production systems, has announced a significant expansion of its Customer Care team to provide enhanced support for customers worldwide.

Mashed potatoes top America’s comfort list, but a YouGov survey for National Potato Day reveals regional and generational favorites: rural areas love potato salad, urban areas prefer gnocchi/poutine, Boomers stick to classics, Gen Z tries tacos.

Strategic partnership between Oxbo and Allan Equipment. Enhanced product portfolio to meet the demand of potato growers. Complementary strengths leveraging Allan’s technical innovation with Oxbo’s network.

False claims suggest Canada cut potato exports to the U.S. and signed a $1.6B Asia deal. No such deal exists. The U.S. remains the top market, with only a 17% dip in 2025 exports, not 41%. Under CUSMA, tariffs don’t apply. Viral posts are clickbait.

A Canadian study shows regenerative practices in potato farming boost soil health, yields and carbon capture. Trials found plant diversity raises marketable yield and resilience without more diseases, supporting long term farm viability

PACK EXPO Las Vegas 2025, held from September 29 till October 1, brings 35,000+ packaging and processing pros, 2,300 exhibitors, and unmatched networking. It’s the premier hub for innovation, connections, and industry growth.

The Potato Leadership, Education, and Advancement Foundation (Potato LEAF) is proud to announce Hannah Johnson, a Ph.D. candidate at Washington State University, as the recipient of the organization's 2025-26 academic scholarship. 

UTZ launches limited-edition Lemonade Potato Chips, blending tart citrus with savory crunch for a sweet-salty summer twist. Available now at select retailers, these bright, nostalgic chips are part of UTZ’s bold seasonal flavor lineup.

Zapp’s® launches Bayou Blackened Ranch Kettle Chips, blending Cajun-style blackened seasoning with zesty ranch for a bold Louisiana taste. Available in 1.5, 2.5, and 8 oz bags nationwide and online, delivering the brand’s signature crunch and flavor.

KFC’s Potato Wedges and Hot & Spicy Wings return nationwide Aug 18 by popular demand. Enjoy wedges alone, sides, or in a new wings & wedges combo. Plus, get deals like USD 3.99 chicken sandwich and USD 20 fan box. Available while supplies last.

Wisconsin red and yellow potato harvest is underway at Alsum Farms in Adams, Wis. with the first potato loads being washed, graded, and packed for fresh market delivery to distribution centers and retail grocers.

NPC invites proposals for Potato Expo 2026 sessions on innovation, tech, trends & collaboration. Formats: 20–40 min talks or panels. Submit by Sept 12; notifications by Oct 10. Topics: production, trade, tech, research, policy & more.

The University of Manitoba has named Dr. Linda Schott as the first UM Research Chair in Potato Sustainability, a key role focused on educating students and promoting innovation and sustainability in Manitoba’s growing potato industry.