The Mintec Benchmark Prices (MBP) for White Potatoes increased to GBP465/mt on January 16th, a week-over-week (w-o-w) increase of 16.3%. On the other hand, over the same period, the MBP for Maris Piper Potatoes increased by 16.6% w/w to GBP560/mt.

“Market sources attribute the respective price increases to growers holding firm offers amid limited supply availability. Despite the substantial increases, sources note that procurement challenges persist, leading growers to maintain bullish sentiments and anticipate further price hikes in the coming weeks. The scarcity of potatoes on the market is a result of last year’s adverse weather conditions during the harvest, particularly impacting Maris Piper potatoes,” Mintec analysts mentioned.

Retailers may decide to make up for the shortage by swapping white potatoes for Maris Pipers due to their restricted supply. Stakeholders in the industry are keeping a careful eye on the plantings in March and have acknowledged that a rainy planting phase could push prices higher by delaying the 2024 harvest.