The Israeli new potato season got off to a flying start this Christmas according to Agrexco UK’s product sales team.
As imports come on full stream, team managers Ori Zafir and Mark Haydon have reported a smooth supply period for the festivities with all programmes and last minute orders completed.
And full availability of new potatoes is expected to continue until June, with overall volumes for this season looking to be the same as last year, and set skins ready for harvest in mid-February.
Agrexco has witnessed a steady increase in demand for new potatoes in recent years.
“Customers are appreciating the freshness and quality that we offer, and can rely on the technical quality back-up documentation available to them,” says Zafir,
“We are also making several improvements within the logistical operations both in Israel and abroad in order to give the best product, service and value,” he adds.
Meanwhile, the company’s organic potato business is also flourishing, according to Haydon.
“The crop is developing well and the early signs are that the quality will be excellent. We are expecting a strong season, building from the foundation set in previous seasons,” he claimed
Agrexco UK will be importing approximately 8,000 tonnes this year, beginning with Nicola, followed by Sante, Valor and Winston.
Agrexco UK’s general manager, Amos Orr, said the company’s success in increasing sales is dampened by the effects of the energy crisis, as well as higher costs of transport and packaging matierials, however.
“It is a difficult situation. We know that it is almost impossible to increase prices, but unless customers make allowances for this in their pricing, we are aware that even if last year’s prices are maintained the growers will not get the returns necessary to be able to survive the additional costs incurred,” he said.
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