Shelley, Idaho-based GPOD of Idaho continues to be a premium supplier to all customers of the potato that made Idaho famous, says Ryan Bybee, sales manager.
GPOD exclusively markets Idaho russet burbank potatoes, with about 60% of the supplier’s volume going to the foodservice channel.
In general, the supply outlook for Idaho potatoes is much improved, Bybee said.
“The volume of acreage rebounded considerably from a year ago,” he said. “This gives Idaho many more good options while also creating some potential new challenges as a result of increased acreage and higher yields than a year ago.”
Bybee said the weather has been agreeable to bringing the crop into storage in good condition.
Related: Exploring fresh, not fried (yet) potatoes for foodservice
“The quality of the 2023 crop is outstanding,” he said, adding that retailers will have great options to promote Idaho potatoes.
Retailers should not be afraid to advertise, promote and work all the angles with their suppliers to market the “Famous Idaho Potato,” Bybee said.
“Idaho will be extremely aggressive in the marketplace this year with the options of packing high-quality and various packs,” he said.
“The challenge will be to get market volume, plate opportunities and shelf space back when it comes to the lack of raw product over the last two growing seasons to meet those demands,” he added. “Idaho will need to be forward-thinking and ambitious as we have the opportunity to meet the challenge.”
