The potato market is experiencing a brief lull. "Given that there are still some problem batches on the market, sales towards the french fry industry are slightly slower. But the long-term prospects look better," says potato trader Leen Meijer from the Dutch company of the same name.
"Export market sales are trickier. Africa has largely dropped off, so we rely mostly on the Caribbean and some of Europe. Countries like Spain and France might come more into play, but with the price being as it is, doing a lot of export business is tough. We're truly counting on the french fry segment this year," Leen explains.
The potato price currently varies between €0.26 and €0.35 depending on the variety and quality. "The problem batches are being cleared out first. Quality is a focal point this season, and inferior batches always depress the price. Good Agrias are selling for €0.35-€0.36, but there aren't many. Most were left in the ground."
Meijer has been trading, storing, and sorting potatoes for over 70 years. He invested in three Flikweert Vision Technologies quality graders a few years ago. “The quality now remains consistent throughout the day. These three machines save two staff members per day. You need only a single operator to adjust and monitor them,” Leen concludes.
For more information:
Potato Trade Meijer B.V.
1 Waardersweg
3257 KH, Ooltgensplaat, NL
[email protected]
www.potatotrademeijer.nl