After a slow start the Jersey Royal potato season is coming to a positive close, with demand being up on expectations.
“We are now at the end of our export season,” explains Nigel Holliday from The Jersey Royal Company. “In general demand was really good, it was helped along with some great selling weather as everyone was in in BBQ mode and looking for salad potatoes. The marketing campaign was also very well received and got great coverage on social media, magazines and newspapers.”
The colder weather in spring delayed the start of the season, but main season production went very well. The last part was a bit dry after six weeks of no rain which lowered yields and will cause an early end to the season.
“I would say that in the end we had average volumes, but saw 10-15% higher demand than predicted and product sold faster than we expected, but this very positive in a climate where the cost of living is increasing. It shows the strength of the brand.”
As in other agricultural sectors the number of workers is not such a big problem, but with these workers coming from 10 different countries to work in Jersey, the language and various visa requirements are a challenge.
