Potatoes USA is encouraging retailers to intensify potato merchandising efforts during the spring season, citing data that links the category to significantly higher overall grocery spend.

According to the Potatoes USA, analysis based on Circana data shows that shopping baskets containing potatoes average approximately USD 99 (EUR 91), compared to around USD 50 (EUR 46) for baskets without potatoes. The organization said this underlines the category’s role in driving total store sales rather than functioning solely as a standalone purchase.

“The entire spring calendar, all the way through Father’s Day, is packed with food occasions where potatoes fit naturally,” said Nick Bartelme, global retail development manager at Potatoes USA. “For retailers, that creates real opportunities to inspire meal ideas, connect potatoes to the season, and capture stronger basket growth.”

The organisation identified several seasonal triggers that retailers can use to position potatoes more effectively. Spring occasions such as brunch gatherings, Mother’s Day meals and graduation events create demand for shareable side dishes, where cross-merchandising with complementary ingredients such as eggs, ham, asparagus and fresh herbs can reinforce meal solutions.

Visual presentation is also highlighted as a key factor. Potatoes USA recommends grouping different varieties together to emphasise colour and diversity, encouraging shoppers to experiment with different formats for roasting, grilling and salads.

“Shoppers buy with their eyes, especially in spring,” Bartelme said. “When retailers highlight the color and variety of potatoes, it can spark curiosity and encourage trial.”

The transition into grilling season presents further opportunities, particularly around key calendar moments such as Memorial Day and Father’s Day. Positioning potatoes alongside proteins such as meat and poultry can reinforce their role as a staple side dish for outdoor cooking, including formats such as foil packs, wedges and warm salads.

In addition, the organisation points to increased demand for convenient, shareable foods during warmer weather occasions such as picnics and informal gatherings. Secondary placements near deli sections or prepared foods are suggested as a way to integrate potatoes into ready-to-eat meal solutions.

Beyond specific occasions, Potatoes USA emphasises that visibility remains a fundamental driver of sales performance. Retailers implementing its merchandising guidelines can achieve up to a 12% increase in category volume, according to the organisation.

“Keeping potatoes visible throughout the department helps shoppers connect them to more meal occasions across the season,” Bartelme added. “Those additional touchpoints can translate into stronger category performance.”

Potatoes USA said additional merchandising materials and category guidance are available through its retailer toolkit, aimed at supporting in-store execution during peak seasonal demand periods.