Employing around 400,000 across the UK and contributing £21.5bn of gross value added to the national economy annually, UK food and drink manufacturing is a national asset, delegates heard at the Food and Drink Manufacturers’ Dinner.
Fiona Kendrick, CEO of Nestlé UK & Ireland and FDF president, said: “We are a hugely diverse sector and I want our needs to be better understood. More than 95% of our businesses are SMEs, rooted in their communities and helping to drive both growth and innovation in the sector. We are calling on the next Government to work with us through a dedicated Food and Drink Manufacturing Council.
“By working in partnership, in the same way the automotive and aerospace industries do, decision-makers will understand our challenges and help provide the right support to boost our productivity, drive exports and turn creative ideas into brand new, world-class products.”
Ian Wright, director general of FDF, said: “The food and drink industry is a national asset of which everyone in the UK should be justly proud. This industry offers an incredible and diverse range of products and choices to the consumer.
“Commitment from the next government to a food and drink manufacturing council will be key to accessing the huge opportunity in the UK’s largest manufacturing sector. Helping Britain’s producers to break into export markets, up-skill employees or innovate for health is a clear ‘win-win’ for the sector and society. FDF will make sure the new Government, MPs, Peers and policymakers are aware of the huge contribution the sector makes and what more we need to flourish.”
Journalist and BBC broadcaster Andrew Neil delivered the keynote address at FDF’s annual Food and Drink Manufacturers’ Dinner which was held at The Grosvenor Hotel in London.