ABERNETHY-BASED potato supplier Branston is gearing up for Christmas, in the expectation that more than 3.8 million packs of fresh potatoes will need processed and distributed in the week leading up to the big day, including 1.1 million packs from its Scottish factory.

“We gear up for the Christmas orders months in advance, to make sure that we have plenty of fresh potatoes and the people to help us pack and distribute them,” said Sharon Affleck, sales and marketing director.

“Christmas is the one day of the year when most people get to enjoy a roast dinner, and crispy, fluffy roast potatoes are an essential element. Whether it’s traditional King Edward or a more versatile Maris Piper or other type of White potato, roast potatoes are one of the best-loved parts of the festive meal.

“On December 18 – our peak packing day – we’re anticipating the need for more than 4000 staff hours, which is around a 50% increase in ‘man-power’ compared to an average week day in the year. We’re also expecting to see more than 120 lorry loads leave our sites in Lincoln, Scotland and South West.”