Demand for bagging material is typical of this time of the year. Cold weather experienced this week should boost some orders. Growers are currently weighing up their options for the upcoming season. Energy prices remain a primary concern for growers and it is reported that many will not be able to avail of the Temporary Business Energy Support Scheme due to the reference period of the scheme.
In the U.K. chipping produce is quiet and “typical for the time of year”. Buyers are looking for quality samples on repeat order. Weakening of the sterling is making U.K. stock more accessible for export. Crisping contracts are moving ahead of program and although conversion rates are very good with almost no rejections, stocks are becoming extremely tight.
Across Europe, the processing markets remain strong with good demand for export. Ex-farm movement is predominantly contract related, with only light offers of free buy from growers, although there are some stores which will need to be moved before sprouting gets out of control. The fresh market is showing signs of recovery after the holiday break and there have been some price increases with reds becoming harder to source and a number of buyers from Holland showing interest for the first time this season.
| Low | High | Average | |
| Rooster box (New Season) | €380 | €480 | €430 |
| Rooster 10 kg (New Season) | €4.00 | €5 | €4.50 |
