FDF response to government's Industrial Strategy

Balwinder Dhoot, Director of Industry Growth and Sustainability, The Food and Drink Federation (FDF), said:

“It’s vital the government takes action to improve the business environment for UK manufacturers. The Industrial Strategy includes some welcome measures that could benefit food and drink businesses, such as the expansion of the Made Smarter programme, Growth and Skills Levy flexibility, more innovation funding, and reducing regulatory burdens for business. However, questions remain as to whether critical sectors, such as ours, can access the funding and support mechanisms outlined here.

“Food and drink manufacturing plays a vital role in ensuring the nation’s food security, provides 500,000 high-quality jobs in every UK region, and contributes £37bn to our economy. It’s clear that government has ambitions for Advanced Manufacturing, and we look forward to seeing how this will translate to supporting the growth of the UK’s largest manufacturing sector – food and drink.”