Some of our farmers and suppliers are sharing that potato yields are down by more than 50%.
One grower told Four Seasons Fruiterers, “The potato job is becoming more difficult by the day”.
The continuing drought and severe heat across many parts of the UK are putting significant stress on potato crops. Meaning insufficient potatoes to meet current demand, and with many growers producing crop at a loss, there is a risk they may not be able to plant potatoes next year and beyond.
Contracts and free-buy
The vast majority of potatoes in the domestic and European market are sold on contract. Contracts are pre-arranged with a grower and buyer. Price, volume, and delivery times are agreed upon in advance, offering stable returns for farmers.
The free-buy market holds more risk and volatility than the contract market. Potatoes are sold on the open market at a spot price depending on supply and demand.
Our growers are reporting that some of the biggest potato buyers in the UK, which normally rely on contracts, are buying as much free-buy potato as they can.
A farmer shared with us, “The rate at which we are clearing crop is alarming and is causing panic in the trade.” They continued, “Availability will be an issue, and we have to review prices day by day.”
Keep up to date
At Four Seasons Fruiterers, we will, of course, do our best to bring you the best local and international produce available.
We encourage you to review menus and promotions to ensure you can meet your guests’ expectations without compromising on quality.
And as always, follow us on social media to keep up to date with seasonal produce, crop updates and specials.
Thanks for your patience in these unprecedented circumstances.