Overview
- Mutti, the Italian processor, said it has so far avoided price hikes but warned it may raise retail prices after the summer harvest if elevated energy costs persist.
- The company says its energy bill is about 50% above expectations and that it uses roughly three-quarters of its annual energy during Europe’s July–September tomato processing period.
- British glasshouse growers report steep input-cost rises, with fertiliser prices higher and some electricity standing charges up around 80% since April, according to the British Tomato Growers Association.
- Shoppers and retailers have noticed intermittent shortages of tomatoes, peppers and cucumbers on supermarket shelves as higher input costs and seasonal processing squeeze supply.
- If Mutti and other processors increase prices after the harvest, consumers could see higher tin and fresh tomato prices and supermarkets may reallocate stock between brands such as Mutti and Napolina.