The Austrian carrot market is approaching the end of its 2024 marketing season, with most remaining stored carrots already allocated under contracts for domestic supermarkets. Free-market availability is now scarce, reinforcing stable pricing trends.
Price Stability in a Tight Market
As of Week 22 (2025), producer prices for carrots remained unchanged, with 5-kg bags (ramp prices, quality-dependent) holding at €60–70 per 100 kg. This consistency reflects the balance between dwindling stocks and sustained demand, particularly from Austria’s retail sector.
Globally, carrot markets have seen fluctuations due to climate impacts and shifting demand. For context, the EU’s average carrot price in early 2024 was €0.85/kg (source: Eurostat), with regional variations tied to supply chain dynamics. Austria’s focus on contract-based sales has insulated local producers from sharper volatility.
Early Carrots Expected by Mid-June
The first harvest of early carrots in Lower Austria (Niederösterreich) is anticipated by mid-June. These early-season carrots, often destined for fresh markets, could inject new supply into the system, potentially easing price pressures. However, yields will depend on spring weather conditions—a critical factor amid increasing climate variability.
Broader Trends: Climate and Consumer Demand
- Climate Resilience: Erratic weather in 2024 (e.g., a wetter spring in Central Europe) has delayed some plantings, but Austrian growers’ reliance on storage carrots has mitigated immediate disruptions.
- Retail Preferences: Retailers continue to prioritize locally sourced carrots, aligning with Austria’s strong “regional first” consumer trend (AMA Marketing, 2024).
The Austrian carrot market remains stable as the 2024 storage supply dwindles, with prices frozen in the €60–70/100 kg range. The upcoming early carrot harvest in June may shift dynamics, but contracted sales ensure predictability for growers. Long-term, climate adaptation and retailer partnerships will be key to sustaining profitability in this sector.
