The FDF launched its report, ‘Ambition for Growth’, which laid out its plans at its annual investment summit this week.
The growth plan would double annual business investment from £5.8 billion to £12 billion, grow exports to £35 billion, and position the UK as a global hub for food and drink innovation, the trade organisation said.
The FDF also called for the Government to help the sector generate over £50 billion in gross value-added (GVA) for the UK economy by unlocking a £14 billion opportunity in technology adoption as well as contribute to a 50% reduction in emissions across the agrifood supply chain and drive investment in the circular economy.
The plan is backed by many major food manufacturers 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 manufacturers have asked for Government help to broaden R&D tax credit eligibility to include healthier product innovation; the relaxation of outdated and restrictive import rules that stop food manufacturers from bringing in food samples for research and development; and the opening up existing funding in robotics and technology to the food and drink sector.
The FDF also highlighted that there should be a matching of the devolved nations’ export support and promotion to help small businesses sell their products abroad.
There was also a call for tax relief to help scale-up innovation in cutting-edge precision fermentation. The food sector also wants support for the transition to a higher skilled workforce by introducing short courses that are critical to the sector within the Growth and Skills Levy.
Karen Betts, chief executive of the FDF, said: “Food and drink manufacturing is the backbone of the UK’s ‘everyday economy’. We contribute £37 billion to the economy, employ half a million people, and export nearly £25 billion of British products loved around the world.
“But our industry can and should do so much more. We need to grow our investment in technology, environmental sustainability, and healthier products, to better serve the UK’s growing population and maintain our competitiveness. But to do that, we need a stronger partnership with the whole of government, with clear, agreed aims, which create the conditions and the confidence for companies to invest.
“Our companies believe in the UK as a great place to do business. But right now there’s work to be done if we want the UK to be the best place in the world to start, grow, and invest in food manufacturing. Our ten-year ambition lays down a challenge which is bold and achievable, will unlock investment and deliver prosperity for communities right across the UK.”
