Potato sales surpass previous record high 5.81%

Retail sales of potatoes in Switzerland have reached an unmatched volume in the past 12 years.

 

 

 

Nielsen Switzerland's statistical retail analysis reveals that sales of potatoes in the first half of 2020 reached 52,400 tonnes. This represents an increase of 5.81% compared to the level reached in the first half of 2011, which was the previous record.

 

 

 

This volume, unmatched for the past 12 years, is an effect of the pandemic and the measures taken to combat it. The increase in household consumption and the temporary halt in restaurant activities have changed purchasing habits. In addition, compared to many fruits and vegetables, potatoes have a long shelf life.

 

 

 

In Switzerland, the number of potato producers decreased from 6,784 in 2008 to 4,200 in 2019. The area of ​​land dedicated to this crop has changed little in this interval, and stood at 10,981 hectares in 2019. The areas intended for organic production have clearly increased (7.6% in 2019 against 4.5% in 2008). Both sales and prices of organic potatoes have grown faster than those of conventionally produced potatoes.