The food and drink manufacturing industry is committed to strengthening its industrial partnership with government to deliver long-term, sustainable growth in the UK’s largest manufacturing sector.

At an industry reception held earlier this month, the Food and Drink Federation (FDF) reaffirmed its ambition to grow sustainably by 20% by 2020 by continuing to grow UK exports and foster innovation, in partnership with government. The creation of a long-term, industry-led skills strategy and support for robust voluntary frameworks which incentivise industry action is also needed to deliver public health and environmental benefits.

The event builds on Ingredients for Success: Delivering Sustainable Growth Beyond 2015, FDF’s agenda for working in partnership with government post-election, launched in the summer.

Fiona Kendrick, FDF president-elect, says, “The food and drink industry has much to be proud of. We are determined to remain world-class with our products sought around the globe so our industry and the economy can enjoy continued export growth.

“Innovation, creativity and skills will unlock the next generation of product and process development that will help us improve employment, productivity and competitiveness.

“In my new role as FDF president I look forward to building on the sector’s many successes to date and strengthening our ability to grow sustainably by 20% by 2020 in partnership with government and other players.”