The Food and Drink Federation (FDF) is proud to announce this St. David’s Day that it is unveiling a new identity in Wales as FDF Cymru.
The move comes as FDF works to secure the best possible outcome from the Brexit negotiations for food and drink right across the UK and the need for a sector deal for food and drink manufacturing as part of the Government’s industrial strategy moves to centre stage.
The new identity also recognises the burgeoning Welsh food and drink manufacturing sector, which employs over 22,000 people across the country and has a turnover of £4.8bn a year.
Food and drink has always been a critical part of the Welsh economy and in recent years it has also become a vital part of Welsh national identity. As the industry faces its most significant challenges for decades, the need for a strong, clear and influential voice for food and drink manufacturing has never been greater.
The launch of FDF Cymru shows FDF’s intent to be a supporter of – and advocate for – the food and drink industry in Wales. FDF is already closely engaged with the UK Government (Defra, DExEu, DIT, BEIS), with the Scottish Government through FDF Scotland, and with Welsh Government in Wales.
Ian Wright CBE, Director General of the Food and Drink Federation said:
“We are delighted to unveil our new identity in Wales. Becoming FDF Cymru recognises the dynamic and exciting Welsh food and drink manufacturing sector. This is a declaration of our intent to secure the best possible future for food and drink in Wales.”
David Lloyd, ZERO2FIVE Food Industry Centre Director, Cardiff Metropolitan University commented:
“The food sector is both vibrant and a cornerstone of the economy and the FDF is to be congratulated for recognising its profile and importance within Wales.”
In a further demonstration of its growing presence in Wales, FDF Cymru is also proud to sponsor the Taste Wales event in Newport on 23-24 March 2016. Taste Wales is a showcase of the finest Welsh food and drink products.
The Food and Drink Federation is also launching a new category for its 2017 Awards: Regional Growth Business Wales. This award offers an opportunity for Welsh food and drink businesses large and small to showcase their successes. Entries are open now until 28 April 2017 for any food and drink business in Wales wanting to highlight their achievements and growth over the past year.
The FDF Awards are fast becoming the mark of industry excellence for food and drink businesses and recognise the achievements of the talented people who work in the sector. Entry is free and winners will be announced at a prestigious evening event at The Brewery in London on 21 September 2017. The FDF awards are run by industry, for industry, and are open to both large and small companies, including producers, retailers, restaurants, and wholesalers – in fact, any operator in the food chain can enter.
Entry to FDF awards is free and online at http://www.fdf.org.uk/fdf-awards.aspx (closing date 28 April 2017). All entries will then be assessed by an independent judging panel comprised of industry experts and key stakeholders including sponsors. Sponsors for the 2017 awards so far include Santander, Grant Thornton, General Mills and Aktrion Food.
Sponsorship opportunities are still available, for further information please contact [email protected]
View the video of the 2016 event: http://www.fdf.org.uk/fdf-awards-winners-2016.aspx
