The squeeze continues...

The recent news that Nestlé’s profits will be affected by the downturn in China alongside the announcement that Satterthwaite’s Bakery in Liverpool was to close with the loss of 70 jobs illustrated vividly how the Food Manufacturing industry is being squeezed at both ends.

It was encouraging to read that DEFRA is going on the front foot to promote UK exports and it is also clear that the UK still enjoys a fantastic reputation for quality and innovation in product development and is fast catching up in added value. But while householders disposable income remains limited the budgets available for NPD will remain limited; the food and drink market has stoutly resisted the downturn so far but continued pressure may result in increasing numbers of Satterthwaite’s and decreasing numbers on major players profit lines.