Food and drink
Market leader
Our unique food culture, modernised and crafted for contemporary tastes, has captured the imagination of buyers and consumers around the world.
Research hub
UK food and drink manufacturing is growing rapidly and there is strong consumer demand for new products in our supermarkets. This means the UK has a thriving research and development (R&D) scene and is a great test bed for new products.
High standards
UK food and drink is not just delicious, it offers international buyers and investors genuine products they can trust. Product traceability at each stage of the supply chain has opened market access for UK produce around the globe.
£230bn
spent on food and drink in the UK each year
450,000+
employed in the sector across 10,000 businesses
£22.5bn
food and drink exports in 2018
140,000
new recruits needed by 2024 to feed a growing population
#1
biggest manufacturing industry in the UK – larger than automotive and aerospace combined
33%
intended growth rate for branded food and non-alcoholic drink to reach £6bn by 2020
Innovation
With thousands of new food and drink products launched to market each year, UK based manufacturers are not afraid to push the boundaries of food production, and adapt to diverse audiences and changing tastes. From developing new technologies that prolong food shelf life to creating new free-from products to meet an emerging market, UK-based companies make the most of our world-renowned science and thrive in this innovative environment.
Innovative packaging
The UK is recognised worldwide for its packaging innovation and new product development. We have a highly skilled ecosystem in materials science, computer science and engineering. We are a great location to help you develop your innovative packaging needs.
Vegan food revolution
Demand for UK vegan foods is increasing, as more people in the UK stop or reduce their consumption of products containing animal ingredients.
Private label
The UK private label market is one of the most mature in the world, with many manufacturers specialising in products for international businesses.
Devon ice cream company goes global
Devon-based Granny Gothards makes artisan ice cream and sorbets from local produce and is part of a thriving dairy community in south west England. The company exports to the Middle East and has now sets its sights on establishing itself in China.