Trade has continued at a steady pace this week, although reports have been somewhat mixed depending on the area. Top quality chipping supplies seem to be tightening, supporting prices of the best material. Planting is progressing well, with some growers finishing this week. That said, ground conditions for many remain dry, and some areas are still feeling a frost at night.
Market Commentary
Packing
- Free-buy demand remained quiet this week for many, with the majority of trade fulfilled on contract.
- Quality remains the key influence over trade and price, particularly for Whites, as supply stays plentiful.
- Maris Piper remains a sought-after variety this week. The median price has moved another £20/t higher stretching the premium from Whites to Piper further.
Bags
- The bags market has been described very differently across contributors and regions.
- Tourist regions have seen sales continue relatively well, although the cold temperatures this week seem to have knocked demand a little.
- Others in the bag trade have described this week as “quiet”.
- Price rises have been driven more by supply issues rather than stronger demand, as top quality material is becoming scarcer.
- Agria is still very sought after and prices have continued to climb this week, particularly for the top quality samples. As previously mentioned, this is generally driven by supply confidence rather than the demand picture. The low end of the market represents material that has internal issues and bruising.
- West bags prices represent a few varieties including Markies, Ramos, Sagitta and Victoria. Unfortunately due to data reporting thresholds, we are unable to separate the varieties out. More popular varieties have pushed the West price up this week.
- Price rises in the East have also filtered through to the South for some, although to a lesser extent.
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