UK does the business on the web

UK online retail sales also outranked those registered in all other major economies, accounting for about 13.5% of purchases in 2010. Web sales are predicted to rise to 23% over the next four years.

Growth of the UK web economy is expected to grow at a rate of 11% per year for the next four years, reaching a total value of £221bn by 2016. Growth rates in the US are estimated at 5.4% and in China 6.9%.

The researchers valued the internet economy at £121bn in 2010, which represented more than £2,000 per person.

Digital campaign​

Determined to switch onto the digital economy, food and drink manufacturers have launched a digital campaign to encourage 16–to 18–year–olds to consider the exciting range of careers in the sector.

Terry Jones, Food and Drink Federation director of communications, said: “We know that the perception of food and drink manufacturing careers is not high. But we employ some of the most innovative scientists, technologists and engineers who can work on the world's most famous brands. Most employees in our sector are highly qualified and there are excellent prospects and good pay.​

“Through the Taste Success campaign and our new digital strand we hope to bring to life the exciting range of jobs on offer and generate a real buzz about working with food.”​

Meanwhile, there are still some places left at our free Skills seminar due to take place on the morning of Monday March 26 at the National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham. The seminar will take place alongside the Food and Drink Expo and Foodex shows.

To book your free place, click here or contact Hannah Rosevear on 01293 610431 or email Hannah.Rosevear@wrbm.com​.