UK: Export growth provides cheer for UK producers

In spite of the global downturn, British food and drink exports grew by 16% in the first three quarters to GBP10bn (US$14.08bn), according to Food from Britain (FFB), the market development network for British food and drink companies.

"Despite difficult trading conditions worldwide, British cheese, chocolate and soft drinks are winning impressive sales overseas," said Trade and Investment Minister Lord Davies of Abersoch. "This clearly shows how a focus on exports can help British firms in the current climate."

UK food and drink exports for the nine-month period from January to September 2008 rose by 15.9% to GBP9.49bn (US$13.35bn). Cheese exports grew by 22.3%, soft drinks rose by 26.7% and chocolate sales were up 13.8%. Among the strong performers were Wensleydale cheese, made internationally famous by the cartoon characters Wallace & Gromit, the Cadbury's Green & Black chocolate brand and Innocent drinks.

Meanwhile, the best performing markets included Poland and Russia, with food and drink exports rising by 57.3% and 26.3% respectively to these two countries.

Food from Britain ceases to operate from 1 April, after which time UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) will take over responsibility for representing UK food exporters.

"Food from Britain has helped hundreds of UK companies to find markets overseas," Lord Davies said. "The mantle now falls on UK Trade & Investment, and we welcome this important responsibility. Companies should register on our website so that they can continue to receive information about the Government help on offer."

John Adams, chief executive of Food from Britain, added: "These latest figures show that there is strong demand around the world for British food and drink. I urge companies to grasp the opportunity that exporting provides. I am glad that UKTI, together with its partners in the regions and the devolved administrations, has signalled so clearly the support that it intends to provide."

UKTI and its partners in the English regions, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland will offer a full range of services to food and drink companies. Trade experts deployed across the UK can advise firms on whether they are ready to export and which markets would be most suitable.

In addition, UKTI's network in 99 countries worldwide can help companies research markets and make contacts with potential trade partners. UKTI can also help companies to visit markets and provide advice and help on market access issues.

Also from 1 April, companies in every sector will be given greater access to funding from UKTI's Tradeshow Access Programme (TAP).