Average potato prices remain unchanged from last week. New-season Queens are averaging at €7 per 10kg bag (ex-farm), while Roosters (old season) remain unchanged according to this week’s Potato Market Report published by the Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA).

New-season Roosters will be lifted this week and will make it to supermarkets shortly. As Rooster crops begin to be harvested there is uncertainty surrounding sales.

The recent lockdown of counties Laois, Kildare and Offaly has created more uncertainty in the food-service sector, but, on a positive note, the market for new-season Queens is still strong and is stable as quality remains excellent.

Average ex-farm potato prices are outlined below and were reported to the IFA and published on August 12. They are unchanged from last week.

Average ex-farm potato prices reported to the IFA:
  • Rooster box (old season) – €350;
  • Rooster 10kg (old season) – €3.50;
  • New-season Queens 10kg bag – €7.

The UK

Pressure remains on prices in the UK with little movement in the market as supply exceeds demand. Yields are expected to be reduced this season as tuber numbers are reported to be low. This may help prices.

Europe

Lockdowns in Europe are causing uncertainty in the markets.

Drought conditions in central France are a worrying development for the potato crop, while heavy rainfall in Spain is not helping quality issues in the country.