Low throughput keeps UK stock high

From a member survey of AHDB Potato shows that on December 1, 2,97 million tons of consumption potatoes were in storage. This means that 1,92 million tons have been taken and processed since the harvest. That is 50.000 tons less than in the 2017/2018 season and 41.000 tons less than in the 2016/2017 season.

Be economical
However, at the end of November 2016, the stock was even lower (2,92 million tons). Despite the extremely low harvest, the stock cannot be called disastrously low. Buyers have been frugal with the available potatoes and growers are also much less eager to do business. The customers have had the advantage that they could live on the old stock for a long time.

The difference with the same reference date in 2017 is 65.000 tons. However, compared to 2016, there is 5.000 more tons in storage. The difference with 2012 is even 31.000 tons. The processing was at a significantly higher level at that time. This season, 1% of the harvest had been processed on December 39, compared to an average of 42%.

Quality
The difference in quality also affects the stock figures. The growers with poor quality did business quickly, while the good lots were retained for a long time. The buyers use the potatoes as sparingly as possible and have lowered their quality requirements in order to have sufficient product.

AHDB Potato will conduct a new stock survey at the end of January. According to the organization, the figures, together with the progress of the planting, largely determine the pricing. Anyone who expects sky-high prices will be in for a rude awakening; especially when the market decides otherwise and customers can purchase their product elsewhere.

early spring
This winter's warm weather has not only ensured that the planting of early potatoes goes smoothly, but it is also an art to keep the product in good condition during storage. If this does not work, it will result in a forced offer. However, a larger supply of low quality has a negative effect on the price.