Garnand Marketing offers insights of the potato business in the US in its report “Fresh Potato and Onion Market Report”, launched in December.

In Idaho, potato demand is starting to pick up following the Thanksgiving holiday and leading into the Christmas season. Pricing remains steady and quality is good. Transportation is still an issue with both truck and rail car shortages.

Acreages and yield in Washington are down so There will be fewer potatoes than last year. Processors appear to be fairly active in Washington and Northern Oregon. Considering supplies in other areas, the analysts don’t expect to see much change in the market but think it will happen in the future. The latest report shows great variation in the size of potatoes, but it’s safe to say we won’t see as many cartons 70 ct. or larger in Washington this year.

Colorado potato demand and quality are good and prices are firm. Truck shortages will continue to be an issue until after the first of the year.

In Wisconsin, potato demand is good and shippers remain bullish on prices. Quality is reported as good. Trucks continue to be tight.

Freight rates in Idaho, Oregon, and Washington continue to be high and will remain so throughout the holiday season. Demand for trucks is high with heavy shipping from these locations. Transportation issues are hurting movement with truck and rail car shortages which may continue to be a problem.

Christmas tree shipping has started and will tighten things up even more. The holidays are just around the corner which will create additional pressure.