Record potato sales in the United States continued in the retail sector from July through September 2020, as at-home consumption continued at high levels during the ongoing novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic that has significantly dented away-from-home foodservice sales.
Total store potato sales increased by 13.6% in dollar value and 10.6% in volume, compared to the same time frame in 2019, according to a report from Potatoes USA citing IRI data. These sales levels are also the highest they have been for the past five years.
Frozen potatoes showed the greatest increase compared to a year ago, with a dollar value increase of 23.9% and a 19.7% rise in volume. The only category that declined compared to a year ago is deli-prepared sides; however, the retreat slowed compared to the previous three months.
Sales of fresh potatoes increased 16.4% in dollars and 10.6% in volume, despite the consumer price increasing. Medley, petite, and yellow potatoes all had volume sales increases of over 20%. While consumers still purchased more five-pound bags than any other package size, ten-pound bags saw the largest increase in dollar value and volume sales by 22% and 20.4%, respectively. Bags larger than ten-pounds grew in dollar value but were the only category to fall in volume sales with a 9.1% decline.
For complete figures, click here: Total Potato Sales: July – Sept. 2020
