Table potato rises the dance in times of crisis

Private potato consumption is booming in times of lockdown. For example, market analysts report that Germans, among others, are buying larger quantities of table potatoes than normal. The positive effect this has on price formation in this market segment can also be seen with early potatoes. For example, prices of €60 per 100 kilos are reported for potatoes from Egypt (delivered free).

There is also a lively market for table potatoes in Italy. Sales have increased by 30% and to meet the increased demand, new potatoes from Egypt are also used. Italy's own early production has suffered frost damage in some regions. This also has an impact on prices, which are relatively high. Growers reportedly receive €45 to €50 for potatoes. 

More packaged potatoes
It is striking that packaged potatoes are clearly more popular than loose potatoes. This may have to do with hygiene. This poses a challenge for packaging companies in Italy that have fewer employees. 

A significantly higher demand for table potatoes is also reported from Austria as a result of the corona pandemic. The big run on potatoes in supermarkets has now leveled off, but consumer demand remains above average. It is expected that the domestic stock will shrink sufficiently to meet the new supply. New potatoes are also currently imported from countries around the Mediterranean.

Fritesmarkt 180 degrees different
In the meantime, the situation on the chip market remains dire. In The Netherlands it is estimated that 1 million tons of potatoes cannot be processed. This is mainly due to the closure of the catering industry, which accounts for 80% of sales. Also Belgium is an important producer of French fries potatoes and is facing a major sales problem. In France there are also fears of significant overproduction. In the Hauts-de-France region, which accounts for two-thirds of French chip potato production, an estimated 500.000 tons of potatoes cannot be processed.