France: Slight Increase in Lettuce Production
French lettuce production for the 2025-2026 season is projected to reach 427.5 million heads, an increase of 9 million heads compared to the previous year, based on forecasts from October 1st, 2025. In September, lettuce prices rose by 3% compared to 2024, according to Agreste.
Expansion in Area and Production
National lettuce acreage is expected to grow slightly by 1% to 6,840 hectares in 2025-2026. However, this overall growth conceals a decline in the northern basin, where acreage is predicted to shrink by 3%. The estimated production increase of 2% compared to last year is mainly attributed to higher output in the Northern Basin.
Price Trends Over the Summer
In May 2025, consumption lagged behind national supply, causing market imbalance and a 33% price drop from the previous year. Prices were also slightly below the five-year average by 4%. June saw continued weak commercial activity. However, prices rebounded during the summer, particularly in August, when they were 19% above last year's level and 15% higher than the five-year average, driven by reduced production due to hot weather and disease factors.
Prices dropped by 33% from last year in May 2025, then increased in August by 19% compared to last year.
Summary: Lettuce production in France is forecast to rise modestly in 2025-2026, with price fluctuations influenced by weather and supply-demand imbalances.