Food and drink manufacturers recognised for economic and community contributions
The Food and Drink Federation (FDF) has opened entries for Members of Parliament (MPs) to nominate outstanding local food and non-alcoholic drink manufacturers for the FDF’s annual MP’s Choice Awards: Food and Drink Manufacturer of the Year Award. Nominations are currently open for small and medium-sized (SME) manufacturers across the UK, who will be recognised for their contribution to the economy, local jobs, and their communities. Regional winners will be invited to a ceremony in Parliament, where an overall national winner will be named.
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The award aims to celebrate the vital role SMEs play in shaping the future of UK food and drink manufacturing. This sector contributes over £42 billion to the UK economy, accounts for almost a quarter (23.7%) of total manufacturing turnover, and supports half a million jobs nationwide. MPs are encouraged to nominate local manufacturers demonstrating excellence in innovation, sustainability, workforce development and wellbeing, and community engagement.
Karen Betts, Chief Executive of The Food and Drink Federation (FDF), said: “Too often, the food and drink manufacturers driving local growth go unrecognised. Yet these businesses are creating jobs, investing in communities and generating opportunity in every postcode across the UK. The MP’s Choice Awards are a chance to celebrate those businesses and the contribution they make to their local communities. We encourage MPs and local residents to get their nominations in for the food and drink manufacturers they’re proud to have in their area.”
A panel of industry experts will judge the awards. This panel includes Jacqui Parr, Editor of TheGrocer.co.uk; Rachel Clark, Sainsbury’s Director of Groceries; Mike Reader MP and John Lemont MP, who are Chair and Vice Chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group for Food and Drink; Anna Macmillan, FDF Director of Corporate Affairs and Communications; and previous winners, ChalkStream.
