Potato processor Lamb Weston has chosen to apply a single, generic price discount across all variety groups for the 2026-2027 season. This represents a price reduction of 13% to 20% compared to last season. The company will continue to pay the highest prices for the Ivory Russet variety.
The American potato processor's strategy for the coming growing season is similar to that of other processors in the Netherlands and Belgium. It is focusing more on premium varieties, Innovator and Ivory Russet, and is reducing production in the Fontane segment, which also includes Challenger.
Fontane and Innovator
Delivery of the main crop begins in week 36 at €12,25 per 100 kilos for Fontane. In week 17, the price is €22,65, and in week 26, €25,05 is paid. Those delivering from a mechanical cooling system can expect a €1,20 premium on that price. This premium increases to €1,90 for delivery in mid-August. Innovator's prices for the three periods are €14,75 in week 36, €25,15 in week 17, and €27,55 in week 26.
The prices listed include storage fees, but exclude premiums, surcharges for mechanical cooling, and VAT. Seed potato prices are naturally falling this season, which somewhat offsets the contract price reduction.
Ivory Russet
Lamb Weston has been working with the Ivory Russet variety for some time and continues to reward this variety slightly better than Innovator. Across the board, the price is €0,50 per 100 kilos higher than what it pays for Innovator. This white-fleshed variety is used in the premium QSR (quick service restaurant) segment.
Besides price, the volume to be fixed is equally important for growers. It's clear that less product can be fixed at a fixed price, given the aforementioned variety differences. Growers are facing reductions of 25% in tons per hectare (from 40 to 30 tons) or a 15% reduction in area, according to insiders. When asked, the processor declined to comment on the policy in this regard.