Campaign to boost spud sales in UK

By ANDREW ARBUCKLE
Published on 12/07/2012 00:00

EVEN though consumers are currently looking for cheaper options to fill their shopping baskets, the Potato Council believes that potatoes are still very good value for money and is to launch a promotion providing shoppers with more information on the spuds they are buying.

Speaking yesterday, Caroline Evans, the head of marketing at the organisation, said the basis of the promotion would be on giving shoppers more information. Research had revealed that variety names such as Maris Piper or Desiree are a help but buyers wanted to know more.

After October, when the promotion is launched, the council will publicise three main headings for potatoes – fluffy for varieties used in roasting or as chips, salad when they are boiled and smooth when they are suitable for mashing.

“We want to tell buyers that taste and texture are more important than skin finish.

“For growers, the benefits could lie in raising the price consumers pay.”