New online platform launched to help food manufacturers with efficiency and productivity

The Food and Drink Innovation Gateway​ is a one-stop online tool which connects businesses in the sector, particularly small and medium sized, with a wide range of independent advice and expertise, from commercial authorities through to universities and government-backed programmes.

FDF said this partnership would support companies to develop and grow their businesses through the adoption of existing and new technologies, including automation, AI and digital, as well as improving their energy efficiency, reduce waste and help to tackle labour shortages.

Invest

The FDF’s chief executive Karen Betts said that ​the UK’s food and drink businesses are the lifeblood of homes and communities.  

“The FDF’s Innovation Gateway is designed to provide a much-needed ‘single point of entry’ for companies in our sector which are looking to invest in innovation, automation, new technologies and environmental sustainability.  It will help to match businesses with the right support, which already exists in a range of different organisations across the UK but which can be difficult to identify and access,”​ said Betts.  

“I’m proud of the very practical support that FDF’s Gateway will offer to our dynamic sector, helping food and drink businesses to grow and thrive, and to remain at the heart of advanced manufacturing and a green economy.” ​

Cornerstone

The new platform was launched at DEFRA’S National Food and Drink Summit this week. 

“The food and drink industry is a cornerstone of our economy and the largest manufacturing sector in the UK. SMEs are at the heart of this, making up 98% of food and drink manufacturers and employing 146,000 people across the country,”​ said Food and Farming Minister Mark Spencer MP. 

“They are global leaders in innovation and I am delighted the FDF’s new Food and Drink Innovation Gateway will be open to them, making it easier for them to adopt new technology.”​