Bold Steps Needed to Ensure the Future of Scotland’s Food and Drink Sector

Food and Drink Federation (FDF) Scotland has unveiled its 2026 manifesto, which outlines a series of critical priorities aimed at fortifying Scotland’s food and drink manufacturing industry.

Economic Significance

Scotland’s food and drink manufacturers significantly contribute £5.2 billion to the national economy, while also providing employment for approximately 47,000 individuals. To sustain growth, it is essential to foster a robust partnership between these businesses and the upcoming Scottish Government and Parliament.

Key Priorities for Action

The manifesto highlights several key actions the next Scottish Government and Parliament need to embrace:

• Support Business Growth: Establish a stable, evidence-based regulatory landscape that minimizes policy differences across the UK. This includes delivering multi-year, ring-fenced grants to spur investment and innovation.
• Develop a Skilled Workforce: Reform skills delivery and offer targeted employer support for training, while engaging with the industry to create effective policies that cater to workforce needs.
• Pursue Net Zero Goals: Encourage climate change innovations, implement a national food and drink climate transition plan, and ensure that local authorities allocate recycling and waste improvement funds accordingly.

Commitment to Sustainability and Community

The outlined priorities aim to help Scotland’s food and drink manufacturers flourish while continuing to provide safe and healthy products. Moreover, sustainability remains at the forefront of their mission.

Industry Leaders Speak Out

James Macsween, Chair of FDF Scotland, emphasized the significance of the manifesto, stating:

“As someone who has grown up in Scotland’s food and drink sector, I see how our industry brings communities together and supports people across the country. This manifesto is not just a set of policies – it’s a call to action for the next Scottish Government and Parliament to champion our businesses, invest in our future, and help us continue to deliver food and drink that Scotland can be proud of.”

FDF Scotland’s Vice Chair, Katherine Durie, added:

“We need to ensure our workforce has the skills and opportunities to thrive. Through the industry working in partnership with government, a skills system can be created that truly reflects the needs of our businesses and our people. Together, we can help every individual in our sector reach their full potential and keep Scotland at the forefront of food and drink innovation.”

David Thomson, FDF Scotland’s Chief Executive Officer, remarked:

“Our manufacturers are ready to embrace the challenge of net zero and sustainability, but we can’t do it alone. With the right support from government, we can drive real change – not just for our industry, but for Scotland’s environment and communities. I ask policymakers to work with us to help secure a greener, more prosperous future for everyone.”

Image: Seafish