Potato News from United Kingdom

Flo-Mech Ltd has opened a new demonstration facility showcasing advanced processing equipment, including the G450, Hoegger PS2000 and MPE Chain-Vey. More systems will be added soon. Customers can book trials on-site or at their own facility.

Bauer’s LAMMA highlights include the new Rainmaster A4 irrigator with PE hose and SmartRain connectivity, plus upgraded slurry tankers with contactless steering, new field-mapping controls, and a range of pumps and separators.

The global potato starch market is experiencing steady growth, driven by increasing demand across various industries, including food processing, pharmaceuticals, textiles, paper manufacturing, and adhesives.

As the UK potato industry prepares for BP2025 in Harrogate, Tong Engineering will highlight how its latest handling and automation technologies help growers and processors meet modern demands while preparing for the future.

British farmers face mounting pressures amid economic uncertainty, policy shifts, and unpredictable weather — with nearly three-quarters expressing pessimism about the industry’s future, according to McCain Foods’ inaugural Farmdex Report.

Belgium’s long-standing love affair with potatoes goes far beyond taste. Potatoes are central to the nation’s culinary identity, and the iconic frietkot - a fast-food stand dedicated to fries - is officially recognized as part of Belgium’s national intangible cultural heritage.

Produce Investments (PI) acquires Biofresh Safestore, a leader in fixed crop management. Combined with Restrain’s natural sprout suppression, the move expands PI’s tech portfolio, offering flexible, innovative storage solutions across Europe and beyond.

Farming with Nature: Mapping the Growth Opportunity for UK Agriculture” maps 5.1 million hectares—almost one-third of the UK’s farmland—using geospatial data, on-farm assessments, and economic insights to guide sustainable and resilient farming practices.

The 'Ultimate Roast Potato' named after a much-loved film character is back on shelves after high demand. Branston says deliveries of its Nemo potato will rise 87 % this season versus 2024, bringing faster-cooking, great-tasting roasts to more homes!

A new survey by Young’s reveals 62% of Brits enjoy fish and chips on Fridays. Rising costs drive home-cooked versions, though 22% stick to takeaways. Ranked 2nd in UK food traditions, fish and chips remain a beloved Friday treat.

Lamb Weston’s Frenzy Fries won Gold at the National Restaurant Pub and Bar Show Innovation Challenge for their creative, experiential concept. Judges praised the product’s innovation and market impact.

The UK distributor of Algifol is to exhibit at British Potato for a second time and is running a special competition to mark 20 years of representing the seaweed-based biostimulant in the UK.

Biostimulant strategies can help potato crops better cope with field stress conditions, as well as enhance tuber numbers and proportion of marketable crop, according to results of plots at Potatoes in Practice Open Day at the James Hutton Institute.

Branston potato growers gathered in Lincolnshire to explore new varieties, including a nutty salad potato and Inca Rosa, aimed at supermarkets by 2026. The field walk showcased trials, yields, and innovations, with Tesco also backing the development.

Potato growers are urged to watch for the Colorado beetle, a pest threatening UK crops. Spot yellow-cream beetles with black stripes or red larvae. Report sightings with photos to APHA or the Scottish Government to protect biosecurity.

LOMA Systems will showcase its latest inspection technologies and online training at PPMA Total 2025, NEC, from 23–25 September. The UK debuts include the X5DE Space Saver X-ray and IQ4M RUN-WET® metal detector at stand E14.

Potato Professionals in the United Kingdom gathered for the annual Potatoes in Practice (PiP)event, hosted by the National Potato Innovation Centre (NPIC), in partnership with SRUC and Agrii, at The James Hutton Institute’s Baldruddery Farm.

AVR offers a complete range of equipment for potato growers – including cultivators, planters, ridgers, toppers, trailed and self-propelled harvesters, and in-store handling solutions.