Market Minute: Steady potato supplies, strong onion market

While the weather has challenged several items for ad promotions, there are plenty of potatoes available — and potatoes are the backbone of the produce department. The demand and market have been steady. Idaho Russets are of excellent quality and readily available for ad promotions.

This is also a perfect time to enter the Idaho Potato Lovers Month display contest. Many retailers participate and build some very nice displays that generate high sales volume.

The picture on onions is different as the demand exceeds supplies. The market is tightening up as some vendors are limited on supplies. Product from Mexico is light, and the heavy demand may prevent some orders from being completely filled. Hopefully Texas will soon start shipping amounts that should help the supply level.

Merchandise potatoes and onions together. These two pair perfectly on displays and can generate maximum sales volume with a well-deserving profit. Bags and bulk on a large aggressive display will always draw customers into making purchases.

Keep an eye on the onion market and be ready for it when the supply once again opens up with new crops and steady volume. Interact with your onion suppliers and stay abreast with the markets. Right now, onion volume may be tight on a higher cost basis, but it will eventually level off. Know that information ahead of it from your suppliers.

Ron Pelger is a produce industry adviser and industry writer. He can be contacted at 775/843-2394 or by e-mail at [email protected].