In appreciation of our partnership during the last year, we extend our very best wishes for a happy holiday season.
Sincerely, Your RPE Team
Potato Market Update
Few changes in the russet potato market. Growers in Idaho continue to ship at a much slower pace than ever before. Pricing for all sizes continues to inch upward with the increased demand for the Christmas holiday. This year, we are noticing the enhanced need for smaller pack sizes caused by the higher-than-normal retail price.
Overall red potato supply availability from our partner growers in Canada appears to be higher than last year. This is due to the improved growing and harvesting conditions.
Wisconsin yellow potato storage crop is winding down. Demand continues to outpace the previous year with this variety. Supplies in Colorado, North Dakota, Minnesota, and Idaho remain steady. Pricing continues to increase as supplies shrink in all the major shipping regions.
White potato supply and demand remain very steady with few changes. The majority of supplies are centered around the Northeast and the Southeast.
Fingerling potato demand continues to be stronger than usual. Supplies are ample but not in excess. Pricing remains above average.
Onion Market Update
Demand for the Christmas pull has been steady for all colors and sizes. Pricing has been holding steady across the board over the past few weeks. Jumbo yellow onions have been in tremendous demand, as well as larger sizes. The winter weather in the Pacific Northwest could impact sheds and transportation over the next few weeks.
Overall, storage crop onion quality has been excellent this season.
Regardless of shopping method, product price and familiarity are the strongest influencers of product purchase
Price remains the top consideration in purchase decisions, especially given inflation is impacting purchase, and it is not surprising that half of consumers note product price as having an influence on purchase. Increasing in importance this year is purchasing items that are in season. Seasonality has become more important as consumers are becoming more attuned to environmental sustainability and desirous of in season freshness and flavor. Brand reputation is an interesting increase as many more shoppers are purchasing store brand items.
Hybrid shoppers tend to focus on product ingredients, be it the label or nutrition panel. Being able to take the time to scrutinize the item in one’s own home, as well as being able to enlarge the label to read everything, is a benefit of shopping online.
