Powering Communities - UK food and drink manufacturing regional report 2025

FDF’s Powering Communities report shows, according to the latest figures, that the food and drink manufacturing industry contributes £37.3bn to the UK economy, accounting for almost a quarter (23.4%) of total UK manufacturing turnover. This follows substantial growth of 17.9% over the last decade.

This significant economic contribution shows the pivotal role our industry plays in supporting communities across every region. Food and drink manufacturing makes up almost a third (30.8%) of total manufacturing GVA in Scotland and a fifth in the East Midlands (20.6%) and Northern Ireland (20.2%).  

The report also reveals that our sector’s contribution to providing high-quality jobs. The industry provides almost 500,000 jobs, with 41,000 new jobs created across the UK since 2018.

But, there is still more growth for the taking. At the end of last year, FDF revealed that there is an untapped £14bn productivity opportunity that could further propel our industry forward.

In light of these findings, FDF is urging government to take decisive action to remove barriers such as low investment in innovation, falling food and drink export volumes, and lack of access to highly skilled talent. Addressing these challenges will ensure the future growth of the sector and help protect the UK’s food security.