Potato Variety Days 2025 is a three-day, in-person event taking place from 5 to 7 November 2025 in the Emmeloord region and surrounding potato-growing areas of the Netherlands. It is one of the most important international gatherings for the potato sector, bringing together breeders, growers, processors, exporters, researchers, and industry suppliers from across the globe.
The event is organized as a collaborative showcase by leading potato breeding and trading companies, each opening their own premises to visitors. These include renowned names such as Agrico, HZPC Holland, Europlant Pflanzenzucht, Danespo, Germicopa, Schaap Holland, Geersing Potato Specialist, Agroplant Holland, Den Hartigh, Interseed Holland, van Rijn France, and others.
Purpose & Focus
The aim of Potato Variety Days is to present the latest developments in potato breeding, focusing on:
- New Varieties: with improved yields, taste profiles, resistance to pests and diseases, and suitability for various climates and markets.
- Sustainability: highlighting varieties that require fewer inputs, are more resilient to climate change, and support efficient resource use.
- Market-Specific Traits: varieties developed for fresh consumption, processing into fries or chips, and niche or specialty markets.
Format & Experience
Rather than being held in a single exhibition hall, the event is spread across multiple company locations. Visitors travel between breeding stations, research centers, and company showrooms, experiencing a diverse range of presentations:
- Variety Displays: Hundreds of potato varieties are laid out in crates or trays, often with samples of their processed forms (fries, crisps) to demonstrate culinary quality.
- Tasting Stations: Visitors can sample cooked potatoes and compare textures, flavors, and cooking performance.
- Innovation Zones: Breeding companies present their R&D projects, explain breeding techniques, and share trial results.
- One-on-One Networking: Attendees meet breeders and technical experts directly, allowing in-depth discussion on agronomy, seed quality, and market potential.
Audience
The event attracts a global audience of:
- Commercial potato growers Seed potato exporters and distributors
- Processing companies and food manufacturers
- Agronomy specialists and researchers
- Traders, importers, and retailers seeking new varieties
Atmosphere & Importance
Potato Variety Days is considered a vital date in the international potato industry calendar. The atmosphere is professional yet welcoming, with each participating company offering hospitality—ranging from guided tours and presentations to lunches made from their own potato varieties. The event not only showcases technical innovation but also serves as a major networking hub, fostering long-term business relationships and collaborations.
