Exports to fuel UK food & drink sector growth

The UK’s booming food and drink industry is set for strong future growth off the back of global demand for UK manufactured produce, despite concerns over the impact that Brexit might have on staffing levels in the sector. In addition, a focus on healthier foods and the use of new technologies such as automation to improve manufacturing processes will also drive future opportunities, according to a new sector report from Santander and EEF. UK products were exported to a record 217 international markets, five more than in 2015. Despite this, only one in five UK food and drink manufacturers currently export, and there’s a clear opportunity for businesses to “grow through exports”.