Potato News from Europe

Aviko, one of the leading suppliers and brands in potato products in Europe, has acquired the remaining 75% of the shares in Eurofrits, making the Spanish producer of frozen potato products and snacks a full member of the Aviko group.

Key Technology (Key), a member of Duravant’s Food Sorting and Handling Group, introduced its new automatic defect removal system for potato strips – ADR X – at Interpack in Hall 6 / B73.

European farmers are protesting over falling prices caused by a large harvest, reduced demand for frozen French fries following U.S. tariffs, and rising competition from countries such as China and India, putting profitability at risk and potentially reducing planting areas.

Pomuni Frozen has been re-awarded "Factory of the Future" status by Agoria and Sirris, recognizing its digitalisation, efficient production, and sustainable, future-ready manufacturing operations.

As food manufacturers face ongoing labour shortages, rising costs, and increasing performance demands, TNA Solutions will bring a clear focus to interpack 2026 (7–13 May, Messe Düsseldorf): Innovation simplified.

Polish potato processor MK Agro has expanded its production capabilities and improved product consistency by investing in advanced peeling technology supplied by Finnish food processing technology provider Forsfood Oy.

Los agricultores galos se encuentran en alerta tras el recorte a los precios de los contratos de producción para industria los cuales trasladan más riesgos a su operativa.

At Fruit Logistica 2026, FAM STUMABO showcased how it partners with fruit, vegetable, and potato processors to help them navigate labor scarcity, rising processing complexity, and tighter quality expectations.

Around 500 guests from 15 countries attended the 20th International Berlin Potato Evening hosted by DKHV at TITANIC Chaussee Berlin, uniting heads from the potato value chain, science, politics to discuss market challenges and policy fair rules.

Royal HZPC Group has finalized the acquisition of IPM Potato Group, following the initial announcement made in October 2025. With all required conditions now fulfilled, IPM officially becomes part of Royal HZPC Group.

Germans consume an average of 63 kg of potatoes per person each year, according to official statistics. However, an exceptional surplus from the most recent harvest has overwhelmed even Germany's traditionally strong demand for the crop.

'Maris Piper has had its day; or has it?' That was the provocative title of a GB Potatoes debate at the British Potato Industry Event, where industry leaders discussed whether the long-standing variety still has a place in modern potato production.

McCain Foods, the UK largest manufacturer of prepared potato products, has announced plans to launch a new Farm of the Future in North Yorkshire, home of McCain GB headquarters for more than 50 years.

The UK has officially eradicated the Colorado Beetle following two years of intensive surveillance and biosecurity activity. The pest was detected in Kent in July 2023, with one further finding later that year.

Flikweert Vision, globally active and a leading specialist in optical sorting for potatoes and onions, introduces the Divider Select during Fruit Logistica.

The NAV Working Group for Potatoes for Consumption (WCA) has again estimated the cost price for the coming season (2026). In recent years, from the 2022 harvest through 2025, potato growers have faced a significant increase in cost prices.

The protests by the productive sector managed to halt the ratification of the agreement, which will now have to be re-evaluated by the European courts before it can either move forward or be permanently shelved.

La siembra arranca en Castilla y León con el sector pendiente de los precios en origen, el aumento de los costes y la necesidad de una mejor planificación.