40% of UK food and beverage industry leaders describe climate as “challenging”

The research, which included 337 in-depth interviews with top food and beverage executives in January 2011, showed that although 40% of respondents consider the business climate to be positive, 41% view it as challenging. Meanwhile 50% of food and beverage executives do not expect full economic recovery to take place until the second half of 2012. Jeffrey Young, managing director, Allegra Strategies said: "Although trading performance is more optimistic, it is understandable that senior executives will exercise caution during 2011. "The economic recovery remains sluggish and food cost pressures will intensify the squeeze on margins. Recessionary-forged consumer mindsets will lead to long-term value consciousness." The most admired food and beverage brands in the UK are: in top place Pret A Manger, followed by McDonald's and in third place Waitrose.