News On French Fries and Potato Specialties from Europe

Aviko has installed a fully electric e-boiler at its Lomm factory in the Netherlands. Powered by renewable electricity, it will replace part of the site's natural gas-based steam generation and cut CO₂ emissions by at least 4,800 tonnes a year.

Ukraine has begun building its largest potato processing plant in Cherkasy. The first phase, due by late 2026 or early 2027, will produce 25,000 tonnes of potato flour annually, replacing imports, with future expansion into French fries and exports.

Aviko's 2026 Annual Growers' Meeting reviewed the 2025 harvest, announced pool prices, and discussed market developments ahead of the 2026 crop. The meeting also highlighted collaboration across the potato value chain.

McCain Foods celebrated 18 Manufacturing Academy graduates in Scarborough. Since launching in 2022, the programme has enrolled 118 employees, supporting NVQ training, career progression and skills development across its four United Kingdom.

Global potato processing is shifting toward efficiency as Asia expands capacity while Europe invests in automation and energy-saving technologies. Heat and drought are increasing crop variability, influencing starch markets and supply strategies.

Strong Roots has appointed Emma Curtis as Managing Director, succeeding Charlotte Turton. A long-standing member of the company, Curtis will lead the Irish frozen food brand as it enters its second decade of growth.

McCain Foods has on boarded 69% of its potato acreage to its regenerative agriculture framework. Through grower partnerships, COVALO, Routes to Regen and OP2B, the company aims to transition 100% of its potato acreage to regenerative farming by 2030.

FrietHoes is scaling up with a new fries factory in Nieuw-Vennep, expanding capacity and reach across home and international markets. With rising demand for real potato taste, the brand is set to become the new quality benchmark in fries.

Branston has appointed Tom Seagrief as General Manager, expanding his remit to prepared retail, B2B peeling and mash operations. The move supports growth plans and follows the successful launch of the company's mash facility in 2024.

Aviko has started electrifying its Steenderen potato processing plant, advancing its Unlock 30 sustainability strategy. Developed with Liander, the project aims to cut emissions, reduce fossil fuel use, and support lower-carbon food production.

McCain Foods has announced a partnership with the Tour de France and will become the event's Official Fries partner in 2026. The agreement links the global frozen potato products manufacturer with one of the world's most recognized cycling events

Lamb Weston plans to close its potato processing facility in Broekhuizenvorst, the Netherlands, as part of efforts to improve operational efficiency and align its supply chain with market conditions. The proposed closure affects about 110 employees.

A survey by Lamb Weston reveals Brits are embracing global flavours at home, with younger generations leading the trend by adding chilli oils, spices and international-inspired twists to everyday meals and chips.

Aviko has signed the Declaration of Intent for the Regenerating Together Programme (RTP) of SAI Platform together with 40 food and agriculture organisations, including Carlsberg Group, Diageo and FrieslandCampina.

Lamb Weston has launched Frites Atelier in the United Kingdom, introducing the premium fries concept developed in collaboration with three Michelin star chef Sergio Herman to the UK foodservice sector.

Breizh Frites, founded by Pascal Lemaire, Jean-Pierre Rivery, and Hervé Le Gall, launched Brittany’s first fresh pre-cooked fries plant in Plumieux, building a fully local supply chain with farmers and distributing via Réseau Le Saint.

IFCG-Egypt will join PLMA Amsterdam 2026 (May 19–20, RAI Exhibition Centre), showcasing premium frozen sweet potato and potato products and private label solutions, with focus on customization, consistent quality, and scalable global supply.

Private label is reshaping Europe’s grocery sector, reaching 38.8% share across 17 markets. Once seen as budget, it now rivals brands in quality and trust. With a Euro 387B market, retailers and producers like Agristo drive growth and innovation.