Coles is assuring Australian shoppers that potato availability has markedly improved after severe shortages and price surges in 2025 that left supermarket shelves thin in some areas.
Improved harvest after damaging weather
The supermarket’s produce management says the outlook for the 2026 potato crop is encouraging following a year in which drought, heavy frosts and a plant disease severely constrained supply. The combination of climate stress and disease had major effects on production last year.
Kenny Macleod, Coles’ vegetable category manager, told Yahoo Lifestyle that growers are now reporting healthier crops and greater optimism about yields and quality.
“Crops are looking really good, and growers are optimistic,”he said, adding that growers have not encountered the same weather challenges as in 2025.
What caused last year’s disruption
Supply trouble in 2025 was driven by extreme weather in major growing regions and disease pressure in Tasmania. The story noted that potato crops in Tasmania were hit by the mop-top virus, a pathogen that can deform both the skin and flesh of tubers.
South Australia and Tasmania are two of Australia’s leading potato producers. According to the state Department of Primary Industries figures cited in the report:
- South Australia accounts for about 30–35% of the nation’s potato output.
- Tasmania provides just over 30% of production.
Prices and what shoppers can expect
The 2025 shortages translated into sharp price increases at supermarkets. Average prices moved from around $3 per kilogram to at least $5.50 per kilogram in some areas, with record prices recorded in parts of the country.
Coles says the stronger 2026 harvest should restore promotions and more typical pricing patterns. Macleod told Yahoo Lifestyle the retailer is hopeful customers will soon see “good value” at checkout and that the regular promotional cadence will resume after being altered in 2025 when supply was limited.
Current retail prices for potatoes vary by variety but are now reported in the range of $2.25 to $5 per kilogram, depending on type.
| Item | Figure |
|---|---|
| South Australia share of production | 30–35% |
| Tasmania share of production | just over 30% |
| Typical price before 2025 shocks | $3/kg |
| Prices at height of 2025 shortages | $5.50/kg minimum (some regions higher) |
| Reported current price range | $2.25–$5/kg |
Implications for shoppers and growers
For consumers, a more plentiful crop typically means greater choice and more frequent promotions on a pantry staple. Coles’ statement suggests the supermarket expects to return to standard promotional schedules that may have been scaled back when supply was constrained last year.
For growers, the healthier conditions this year are a welcome relief after weather extremes and disease affected yields. Grower optimism, as described by Coles’ produce manager, could help stabilise market supply and prices if the favorable conditions persist through harvest and distribution.
- Shoppers can expect improved availability and more promotions as the 2026 crop rolls into stores.
- Major producing states—South Australia and Tasmania—together supply a substantial portion of the nation’s potatoes.
The report did not provide detailed crop tonnage or an official industry forecast, but the comments from Coles signal a meaningful improvement from the shortages and price spikes that affected supermarkets and consumers in 2025.
For lifestyle-focused shopping advice, Coles’ produce manager reiterated the perennial tip: buying in-season produce often delivers the best value.
