FDF Scotland Calls for Urgent Cross-Party Support for Food and Drink Manufacturing
The Food and Drink Federation (FDF) Scotland has urged political leaders to take urgent action to support the food and drink manufacturing sector, which is currently grappling with unprecedented cost increases. Rising expenses across energy, packaging, ingredients, and National Insurance contributions, along with worldwide energy market disruptions, are putting immense strain on manufacturers.
As a sector heavily reliant on energy and globally interconnected, the food and drink industry finds itself particularly vulnerable. The FDF has forecasted that food inflation might soar to at least 9% by the end of 2026.
With only 29 days remaining before Scotland’s elections, FDF Scotland organized a food and drink-focused election hustings event at CMS in Edinburgh. The gathering attracted representatives from all major political parties to discuss strategies for supporting Scotland’s essential food and drink manufacturing sector in the forthcoming parliament.
The event provided a platform for industry leaders to engage with party representatives about their plans to ensure competitiveness, resilience, and sustainability during this challenging economic landscape. Key points were addressed regarding how government policies could support businesses in overcoming challenges posed by supply chain pressures.
Attendees from Political Parties
The hustings included input from the following representatives:
Kim Schmulian – Reform UK Scotland
Miles Briggs MSP – Scottish Conservatives
Dan Heap – Scottish Green Party
Daniel Johnson MSP – Scottish Labour Party
Wendy Chamberlain MP – Scottish Liberal Democrats
Euan Hyslop – Scottish National Party
A recurrent theme was the necessity for a stable and supportive business environment. Discussions revolved around how governments can enhance their support for growth and investment, optimize the use of Apprenticeship Levy funds to develop skills pertinent to the industry, and assist manufacturers in achieving greater environmental sustainability while remaining profitable.
Industry Insights
David Thomson, Chief Executive Officer of FDF Scotland, stated:
“Food and drink manufacturing is among Scotland’s most significant industries, yet it’s acutely sensitive to rising energy costs, global supply chain disarray, and policy uncertainties. The hustings underscored a collective recognition among parties of the challenges businesses face. The next Scottish government must collaborate closely with the industry to provide practical solutions, enabling manufacturers to invest, innovate, and cultivate the skilled workforce necessary while facilitating a transition to net zero.”
As the election approaches, the need for immediate and thoughtful support for Scotland’s food and drink sector becomes ever more critical. The calls for cross-party action resonate loudly, urging all political leaders to champion this vital industry as it navigates through turbulent times.
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