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The latest industry figures reveal a record-breaking
turnover of £7.473 billion in 2019, surpassing the
ambitious target set in 2014 to achieve 30% growth and
reach £7billion of sales by 2020. In 2018, 73% of all
Welsh food & drink exports went to the European
Union.
During a visit to ZERO2FIVE Food Industry Centre at
Cardiff Metropolitan University the Minister toasted the
success and spoke of her hopes for the future of the
sector in a post-EU world.
said:
“In 2014 we announced a simple and bold target – to raise
the industry’s sales value by 30% to £7 billion by 2020.
I am absolutely delighted we have now more than achieved
this, the latest data showing the sector has a value of
£7.473 billion.
“Wales’ food and drink industry has never been in ruder
health and it has been fantastic to share the success
with some of our wonderful, innovative producers here
today. But with only a matter of days until we leave the
EU we can’t ignore the fact Brexit will be a big
disruptor and have a major impact on many of our
fantastic businesses”.
“I am in regular contact with Ministerial counterparts in
the UK Government and my message is clear. This sector is
a real success story which we need to continue to promote
and develop; it should not be overlooked or sold down the
river.
“During trade negotiations and discussions on our future
relationship with the EU the UK Government must consider
the impact on the 24,000 people who work in Wales’ food
and drink manufacturing sector and the 229,000 employed
in the wider supply chain.
“We have so much to celebrate here in Wales. I have every
confidence, if we continue to support our food and drink
industry and with the right economic conditions in place,
our growing reputation as a food and drink nation will
only get stronger.”
The Food and Drink Wales Industry Board is responsible
for growing, promoting and enhancing the reputation of
the Welsh food and drink industry. Its Chair, Andy
Richardson added:
“The stunning growth in the Welsh Food & Drink sector
is down to the drive and determination of the industry to
succeed, effective collaboration between industry and the
Welsh Government, allied with technical expertise and the
dedication of the many thousands employed within the
sector. While these superb figures show we are
undoubtedly on the right path it is crucial we do not
allow this success to be derailed and we must continue to
take every opportunity to protect the quality and image
of our produce”.
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