Dutch potato growers have so far delivered a smaller share of the potatoes compared to the 5-year average. This is apparent from the third stock inventory of which the United Growers Arable Farming (VTA) has announced the results today.
49% of the harvest was delivered to the participating growers on the reference date of April 15. This percentage is slightly below the 5-year average of 55%. In absolute tonnes, the participating companies delivered 7,7% more than last season, but still 10% below the long-term average. The absolute inventory is 12% lower than last year, but 13% higher than the 5-year average.
Of the potatoes still in storage, 59,5% have already been sold. That percentage was 54,1% last season. It is virtually equal to the multi-year average of 60%. In absolute terms, the stock of free potatoes is almost 30% lower than last season, but almost 15% higher than the 5-year average.
Shrinkage area 5%
The participating growers were also asked about the area development of this season. 85% of the participating companies have already filled in the area on the reference date. Based on the data entered by those growers, the area would shrink by approximately 5%.