US Potato sales in retail exceed 5-year records

Record potato sales continued at US retail from July through September 2020. Total store potato sales increased by 13.6% in dollar sales and 10.6% in volume sales, compared to the same time frame in 2019. These sales levels are also the highest they have been for the past five years.

Frozen potatoes showed the greatest increase compared to a year ago, with a dollar sales increase of 23.9% and a 19.7% increase in volume sales. The only category that declined compared to a year ago is deli-prepared sides; however, the category decline slowed compared to the previous three months.

Fresh potato sales increased 16.4% in dollars and 10.6% in volume, despite the consumer price increases. Medley, petite, and yellow potatoes all had a volume sales increase of over 20%.

While consumers in the United States still purchased more five-pound bags than any other package size, ten-pound bags saw the largest increase in dollars and volume sales by 22% and 20.4%, respectively.

Bags larger than ten-pounds grew in dollar sales but were the only category to fall in volume sales with a 9.1% decline.

These figures are compiled by IRI. Potatoes USA accepts no liability for the content of these reports, or for the consequences of any actions taken on the basis of any information contained herein. Please reach out to retail@potatoesusa.com with any questions.