Crop Report

Delays to shipping are expected until the end of January as ports catch up following congestion over the past few weeks, which was compounded by poor weather. This had a particularly challenging impact on limes. 

However, as the majority of produce has now arrived, we are not expecting any significant problems with availability on the lines most affected, which included easy peelers, melons, grapes and limes. 

As some fruits have been delayed by almost a month, we are closely monitoring quality as the products have been in transit for much longer than anticipated.

Supply of potatoes remains steady, with no major availability issues.

There are likely to be some challenges on salad potatoes, due to the lack of carryover stock creating shortages, and for large bakers, due to the limited growing time, which we anticipate seeing around March or April. 

We are working with suppliers on potential contingency plans in the event of problems.

Our second prepped potato supplier, who we introduced to help ensure consistent supply and quality, continues to work well.

Despite weather challenges in the UK and Spain, we are currently managing availability well across the brassica category, with no major issues. 

However, the cooler temperatures in Spain and the freezing conditions in the UK are both very challenging for growers, resulting in a tightening of availability as it slows the crop’s growth. 

One particular area of concern is Spring Greens, which could face challenges in a few weeks’ time as a result of the weather conditions.