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Business Confidence

The FDF Business Confidence Survey showcases the current economic views of members on a quarterly basis. Find out more about our most recent survey results below.

FDF's quarterly Business Confidence Survey, launched in early 2018, showcases key opportunities and risks perceived by food and drink manufacturing businesses across the UK.

Our survey has been designed with businesses in mind, allowing members to share their views on economic conditions both in recent months and the coming year(s).

Through the survey, businesses have the opportunity to shape FDF's policy asks. For instance, results have been used to inform consultation submissions, budget submissions, and policy recommendations to government.

Our Business Confidence reports are invaluable in promoting the economic importance of the industry via the media.

Latest report: Q1 2020 Food & Drink Business Confidence

FDF is continuously working to ensure that our members' views are continually shared with government and other stakeholders, and our business confidence surveys are a vital part of this.

Key Findings

• The latest FDF Business Confidence survey shows that net business confidence among food and drink manufacturers has significantly declined since Q4 2019, with 68% reporting a decline in business conditions in Q1 2020.
• Key concerns for 2020 include the COVID-19 pandemic, exchange rate volatility, and failure to secure a Free Trade Agreement with the EU – all of which were highlighted by over 70% of respondents.
• GVA, exports and wages all saw a decline in early 2020, while inflation continued to increase. Despite the current difficult conditions, 64% continued to report increased domestic demand as an opportunity for their business this year.

Why get involved?

For more on how you can have your say in our quarterly business confidence surveys, please contact the Competitiveness Team.

Download full results

Q1 2020 Food & Drink Business Confidence Report

Previous reports

Download the 2019 Confidence Report

Download the Q3 2019 Confidence Report

Download the Q2 2019 Confidence Report

Download the Q1 2019 Confidence Report

Download the 2018 Confidence Report

Download the Q3 2018 Confidence Report

Download the Q2 2018 Confidence Report

Download the Q1 2018 Confidence Report