The Food and Drink Federation (FDF) has reaffirmed its mission to strengthen its industrial partnership with government to deliver long-term, sustainable growth in the UK’s largest manufacturing sector.
The FDF reiterated its ambition to grow sustainably by 20% by 2020 through continuing to grow UK exports and foster innovation, in partnership with government and other players, at an industry reception held this week.
The organisation stated that the creation of a long-term, industry-led skills strategy and support for robust voluntary frameworks which incentivise industry action is also needed to deliver public health and environmental benefits.
The event builds on ‘Ingredients for Success: Delivering Sustainable Growth Beyond 2015’, FDF’s agenda for working in partnership with government post-election launched in the summer.
Fiona Kendrick, CEO and chair of Nestlé UK and Ireland, was formally appointed FDF President-elect at the event, successor to Richard Evans, President of PepsiCo West Europe & South Africa Region.
Noting that the food and drink industry has much to be proud of, Kendrick commented: “We are determined to remain world-class with our products sought around the globe so our industry and the economy can enjoy continued export growth.
“Innovation, creativity and skills will unlock the next generation of product and process development that will help us improve employment, productivity and competitiveness.
Environment Secretary Elizabeth Truss, who delivered the event’s keynote address, said: “The UK’s food chain is an economic powerhouse worth a record £103bn and employing one in eight people.
“Our food and farming industry is exciting, dynamic and at the forefront of technology and innovation, I want to ensure we support it to remain world beating.
“The Food and Drink Federation plays a crucial role as the voice of UK food and drink manufacturers and I thank them for the continued work which is helping drive this industry’s ongoing success.”
