Comment: Stocks continue to be cleared from stores this week and growers report that trade has remained steady, with no significant fluctuation since Christmas. Price and demand for Kerr Pinks in particular are holding very well for good-quality material. Early plantings commenced last week on lighter soils in counties Louth and Wexford. However, poor weather conditions this week will have halted progress.

Early plantings have commenced in the UK also, with progress described as “just about” on schedule. Difficult weather conditions will most likely halt progress.

Across Europe, exports continue to the Canaries and prices remain firm. However, buyers are finding it difficult to source the desired quality. In Poland, production has been revised at 13% lower than last year and it is thought that there will be a strong demand for imports later in the season.