An unprecedented potato shortage in Europe this season has enabled Israeli produce giant Agrexco to substantially boost exports to Europe.
“We have had to increase production in order to fulfil the requirements of the European market,” Ori Zafir, sales manager at Agrexco UK told the FPJ. “However, this has not affected our UK customers, as programmes here are set well in advance. Unexpected weather conditions over the last few months had impacted on production, with low temperatures coupled with rain affecting both volumes and harvesting. Yet the weather has now improved significantly, again improving the yield in terms of volume.”
Zafir explained that although the Agrexco potato range is generally successful, certain varieties have recently taken centre stage. “With new potatoes it is the Maris Peer, with the salad sector Exquisa is at the forefront and Maris Piper heads the popularity contest for the main crop. We are also happy to say that our organic potato line is going from strength to strength - the quality is excellent, which is reflected in the size and number of programmes in place.”
A greater demand for small sizes means Agrexco lifting crops at an earlier stage. “We continually work alongside customers and growers to develop new varieties suitable for the evolving market. Much of this work takes place in the south of Israel, on a farm specifically designated for such trials,” added Zafir.
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