This week saw the publication of the NFU’s Bridging the Gap report on transparency in the potato supply chain. The report highlights how packers and processors can improve the efficiency and profitability of the whole industry by providing good, timely information on crop quality back to growers. It is a result of meetings between the NFU and potato businesses held throughout 2017, and highlights some of the good work already being undertaken, as well as practices in all parts of the industry. I have been delighted by the way packers and processors have engaged with us: it seems there is a real willingness to improve. One packer we visited has started issuing a new report to growers itemising deductions from the 2017 season, and others showed a desire to look again at how they pass information on to their suppliers.
There is work for growers to do as well. One of the most common refrains from customers was that, despite open invitations, growers almost never visit the packing or processing facility to which their crop goes. This is one part of building a closer relationship where making the first step is in the grower’s control, and is surely easy to achieve. And, it may seem obvious, but if you aren’t getting the information you need, ask for it. Most packers and processors have said they are happy to provide data, but some only do so on request.
So as 2017 fades into history, if you’re anything like me you’ll be trying to think of some New Year’s resolutions to make 2018 happier, healthier and more profitable. You could do worse than turn to the last page of “Bridging the Gap” where we lay out the top 5 goals for packers, processors and growers. Let’s make them the potato industry’s recipe for a Happy New Year!