This year is disappointing for potato lovers, Bloomberg reports. Record heat and lack of rains in Europe hurt crops, while prices in the UK tripled compared with last year. As a result, portion of French fries also became more expensive. Restaurant owners point out that they never saw such prices for potatoes at this time of year.

Price for ton of fresh potato grew to 300 pounds last month. This is the third record level since 1950s.

Eight heavily consuming potato nations out of ten are located in Europe. This is why this situation on the market will result in tougher competition. British consume more than 100 kg of potato chips, roast potato and mesh a year.

According to estimates, crop in the UK will decline at least by 8% this year. The situation is even worse in continental Europe.

British sector of restaurants offering French fries will suffer the most from short-term volatility of prices, as it does not conclude short-term contacts, unlike supermarkets and large manufacturers.