Strong start for potato shipments from Red River Valley

Potato movement has been good throughout the Red River Valley at the start of this season, says Carissa Olsen, president and CEO of NoKota Packers Inc. and spokesperson for Northland Potato Growers Association, East Grand Forks, Minn.

“Most sheds reported steady movement through the Thanksgiving holiday and expect the movement to continue into the New Year,” she said, adding that finding trucks has not been a problem so far this season for shippers.

Olsen said Northland Potatoes continues to work with Ten Acre Marketing for all its marketing programs.

“They have done an excellent job of highlighting the quality product we continue to produce in the Red River Valley,” she said. “They have a few fun projects in the works to promote the rich, black soil that is unique to our area. There are also several plans coming together to promote our Red River Valley on existing and new social media platforms.”

Olsen said the Red River Valley increased planted yellow acres in 2023. Sheds continue to pack in the standard 3-pound, 5-pound, 10-pound and 50-pound bags, cartons and totes, with options for additional packs as well.

Retailers who leverage consumer and seasonal trends and offer in-store merchandising can increase potato sales, Olsen said.

“Highlighting the many ways, you can prepare potatoes can be a way for retailers to increase demand and sales in this category,” Olsen said. “Potatoes are a shelf stable, affordable, nutritious vegetable that can be used in a variety of ways. As a regional grower association, we work to promote these qualities and the many ways you can prepare this single vegetable."