|
Industry Overview and Key Issues Interviews With Industry Professionals A UK Success Story UK food producers are acknowledged as world leaders. This is seen in the scale of UK food exports (see sidebar). Innovation in product development and marketing are seen as UK trade marks. This vibrant UK business community comprises 7,880 businesses, including some of Europes largest food producers, and a thriving SME sector acknowledged for its specialty food and drink products. All Roads Lead to the Supermarket Talking to people in food production, most topics of conversation include the supermarkets at some stage. In their drive for increased profitability, the supermarkets are keen to market more profitable, 'high value add' products, like fresh convenience foods and ethnic foods (Thai, Indian, etc.). This push is encouraging producers to develop higher quality, more credible products. And as aggressive buyers, the supermarkets are forcing UK producers to improve their financial efficiency (decrease costs) and improve productivity. A knock-on effect is that UK producers are staying competitive with overseas producers. Consolidation in both buying and production can also be put down to the growth of the supermarkets. Food Safety and Traceability After 'foot & mouth' and BSE, both the industry and government are focused on measures to reduce the health risks associated with food supply chain management. This issue, and it's consequences are hot topics for people in the industry. Hear what two industry figures had to say in their interviews. |
|
Facts About The Industry Useful Links |
