Consumption has improved slightly this year due to the cold snap. Growers with good quality stock available continue to command a premium price. Early potato growers are now thinking ahead to plantings which should commence in the coming weeks.
In the UK some lifting progress was reported, however it remains very slow and the quality of the material is questionable. Additionally, some stores are experiencing further rots and breakdowns causing some growers to move stocks more quickly than anticipated. Trade is generally steady with chipping demand usually subdued in January. Packers and processors seem to be mostly working off contracted supplies, leaving limited room for free-buy trade.
Reports indicate the export trade has improved in Eastern Europe particularly Poland. In Spain, there are reports that the planted area will increase by 10% following the high returns for both fresh and processing potatoes in the early part of last season.
Ex-Farm Potato Prices reported to IFA
| Low | High | Average | |
| Rooster box | €330 | €380 | €350 |
| Rooster10 kg bag | €3.50 | €4.00 | €3.80 |
| Whites box | €320 | €370 | €350 |
| K Pinks 10kg bag | €4.50 | €5.00 | €4.75 |
| Golden Wonder 10kg bag | €5.00 | €6.00 | €5.50 |
