Future proofing Cheshire potatoes

Cheshire potato growers gathered at Aston Grange Farm near Runcorn, at the end of June 2014, to discuss the opportunities for the local crop at Potato Council’s Cheshire Potato event.

Host farmers Andrew and Steve Shaw opened their farm gates to growers serious about the future of the Cheshire potato industry.

Opening the event, Potato Council’s director, Dr Rob Clayton, urged industry to speak with ‘One Voice’, saying, “The marketplace is crowded with competitive products so our industry needs to be loud and proud, and join together to bang the drum with consistent messages about potatoes.

“Potato Council will continue to provide the evidence base, as we have a great story to tell. A potato is a naturally fat-free source of fibre and vitamin B6; it has more potassium than three bananas; has a lower environmental impact than rice and pasta; and contributes £4.7bn to the GB economy.”

Senior Analyst, Hannah Goodwin provided an overview of the local market and 2014 supply situation. “The North West produced c.280,000 tonnes of potatoes last season. The processing sector has been the main intended market in the region for more than nine seasons. Around 40% of the region’s crop was grown intended for processing in 2013, followed by fresh chipping and bag sales,” said Hannah.

“An estimated 119,900 hectares has been planted in GB this year. Although very wet weather dominated the start to 2014, conditions at planting and since have been more than favourable for many across GB. The North West being no exception, where lifting of earlies was reported as underway in mid-May.”

A panel of local experts gave their unique insight on the demand and market opportunities for Cheshire Early Potatoes which generated a healthy debate.

Cheshire born Richard Park has 44 years in the potato trade. His family business, E Park & Sons predominately packs for the major retailers from his Cheshire site and their Doncaster premises. “The market has changed dramatically,” noted Richard. “Very little dirty loose potatoes are now sold in supermarkets and pack sizes have reduced, with the majority of sales, washed samples in 1.5kg bags. This has led to much less house hold wastage and better home utilisation.”

“We supply supermarkets in five regions, but when the early Cheshire crop is straight from the ground I’d like to supply more local stores with locally produced product. I’d be supportive of working with local producers to develop a Cheshire potato brand. The taste of the new potato is unique, there’s nothing better than the taste of freshly lifted Cheshire earlies.”

Simon Leaver who has worked in the potato trade for 11 years, works for the potato peeling business, Fylde Fresh & Fabulous in nearby Lancashire. His company supplies ready meal companies and fresh prepared chips and potatoes to the fish and chip shop trade. “Cheshire is a close haul and is as early as other regions for the product quality, texture and consistency we require,” said Simon. “Our chip shop customers are especially appreciative of a local Cheshire product.”

Potato grower Tod Bulmer, of Kenyon Hall Farm started a pick your own growing operation in 1978; for the last 14 years has run a home delivery service; and opened his farm shop 5 years ago. “Demand for local strawberries and pumpkins are the premiership but that’s followed by local asparagus and potatoes,” said Tod.

“There is still a fantastic opportunity to market Cheshire earlies for three months of the year. Local people value local product. Getting the product direct to consumers ensures that we keep the fresh taste, but the only way we can develop the market is at the grower end – together we have to get organised and do something.

Host farmer Andrew Shaw added, “It’s up to local growers to work together, if we are to create increased value and the awareness that the Cheshire early potato deserves. We all have to ensure we are growing the right varieties, such as Maris Bard, that give the customer the best taste experience.”