The Food and Drink Federation (FDF) is calling on government to partner with Britain’s largest manufacturing sector to unlock an ambitious vision for growth and competitiveness by 2035. The plan would double annual investment, grow exports to £35bn, and position the UK as a global hub for food and drink innovation.
From the bakers and cereal makers of the Midlands, to the soft drink producers of the South West, to Scotland’s oat millers, and soup makers in the South East, the UK’s 12,000 food and drink manufacturers are the backbone of the UK economy. However, they’re also facing significant challenges. With rising costs, regulatory pressures and uncertainty, weak consumer demand, and increasing competition from abroad, business confidence in the sector fell to -60% in Q3 2025. Nonetheless, the sector is determined to seize untapped growth.
Backed by many of the nation’s most well-known and loved food brands, including Associated British Foods, Carlsberg Britvic, Danone, Mondelēz International, Nestlé UK, Nomad Foods, Premier Foods, Princes Group, Suntory Beverage and Food, and Tate & Lyle Sugars, food and drink manufacturers are laying out their five Growth Ambitions to support the resilience and long-term success of the sector:
- Doubling annual business investment from £5.8bn to £12bn
- Growing exports to £35bn
- Generating over £50bn in gross value-added (GVA) for the UK economy by unlocking a £14bn opportunity in technology adoption
- Make the UK the global hub for healthier product innovation and food and drink R&D
- Contribute to a 50% reduction in emissions across the agrifood supply chain and drive investment in the circular economy
With the sector tasked with finding solutions to some of society’s biggest challenges, from healthier diets and sustainability, to harnessing new technology and increasing trade, the common thread to unlocking growth in all of these areas is renewed investment.
In setting out a clear, actionable plan, FDF is highlighting at its annual Investment Summit today how a strong government-industry partnership can unlock growth and investment in the UK’s largest manufacturing sector.
From promoting British exports and strengthening supply chain resilience, to supporting investment in healthier products and innovative ingredients, there’s a big opportunity for UK food and drink to lead on the global stage.
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Media contact
Joseph Clarke
Editor, International Bakery
Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920
Email: [email protected]
