The Food and Drink Federation (FDF) is launching a new online platform to help manufacturers access the support needed to adopt new innovation.
Rolling out at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) summit in London today (9 March), the ‘Food and Drink Innovation Gateway‘ is a one-stop online tool which connects businesses in the sector with a wide range of independent advice.
This includes expertise from commerical authorities, universities and government-backed programmes.
The scheme will offer support in helping businesses to develop and grow through the adoption of existing and new technologies such as automation, AI and digital.
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As a result, this looks to increase the energy efficieny and productivity of the UK’s food businesses, while also helping to reduce waste and tackling labour shortages.
“The UK’s food and drink businesses are the lifeblood of our homes and our communities. But these companies are often small and struggle to find the bandwidth and the right support to invest in the right technologies and innovation to help them grow to their full potential,” FDF chief executive, Karen Betts said.
“The FDF’s Innovation Gateway is designed to provide a much-needed ‘single point of entry’ for companies in our sector which are looking to invest in innovation, automation, new technologies and environmental sustainability.”
Food and farming minister, Mark Spencer MP added: “The food and drink industry is a cornerstone of our economy and the largest manufacturing sector in the UK. SMEs are at the heart of this, making up 98% of food and drink manufacturers and employing 146,000 people across the country.
“They are global leaders in innovation and I am delighted the FDF’s new Food and Drink Innovation Gateway will be open to them, making it easier for them to adopt new technology.”
