Insights from a Leading Potato Farmer on the Future of Potato Farming and Consumption

As the World French Fry Championship approaches, potato producer David Fournier is in the spotlight, representing the expertise and challenges of modern potato farming. Based in Neuville-Saint-Vaast, Fournier has dedicated his life to cultivating one of the world’s most popular crops. Ahead of the championship, Fournier shares his thoughts on the complexities of potato farming and the future of the industry.

Fournier emphasizes the importance of innovation and sustainability in potato production, recognizing that tomorrow’s challenges require modern solutions. “The demands of consumers are evolving, and so are the environmental challenges,” he says. “We must adapt our practices to ensure the quality of our crops while also being mindful of the ecological footprint we leave behind.”

On Friday, September 27, David Fournier will be participating in roundtable discussions at Arras, focusing on the key issues facing agriculture today, including gastronomy and the consumption of potatoes. These discussions are part of the broader efforts to prepare the industry for the future while maintaining its rich traditions. Organized by ARRAS PAYS D’ARTOIS TOURISME, the event will bring together farmers, industry experts, and food enthusiasts.

The roundtable will pave the way for the main event—the World French Fry Championship, set to take place on Saturday, September 28, in Arras. As farmers like Fournier take the stage, they will not only share their passion for the crop but also advocate for sustainable and innovative farming methods that will define the next generation of potato production.

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Viktor Kovalev CEO
POTATOES NEWS Viktor Kovalev is the founder of Potatoes.News and the creator of the International Potato Tour (IPT) — a global multimedia project that connects potato farmers, processors, researchers, and agribusiness companies across more than 20 countries. Viktor writes about potato production, processing technologies, storage, seed breeding, export markets, innovations, and sustainable agriculture. His work combines journalism, field research, and video storytelling, giving readers and viewers a unique perspective on the global potato industry. Areas of expertise: Global potato market trends Seed potato production and certification Potato processing (chips, flakes, fries, starch) Smart farming and agri-technologies Storage, logistics, and export Interviews and field reports from leading producers