There was a better demand for potato supplies this past week. Full volume trading has resumed and prices generally have increased pre-Christmas market prices. This was due mainly to heavy frost getting a grip before it snowed. However until crops are fully harvested, conditioned and graded the true extent of losses will only be known. Markets Markets have remained steady since trading resumed.
Demand is good for all varieties.
Most supermarket groups are in January sales mood and discounts are the order of the day particularly with 10kg bags. With between 40-50,000 tons still to be harvested and stocks in store at an all time low. Market prospects for both seed and ware are good. Most 1st and 2nd Earlies have been delivered between 300- 320 per ton. The Scheme will have a budget of 5.5m of which some 2m will be available for investments in the Border, Midlands and Western Region.