The Welsh Government is being urged to do more to combat soaring prices, hit net zero ambitions and deliver jobs into communities by a new group representing the country’s food and drink supply chain.

With food and drink inflation hitting 16.4% across the UK, Food 7 Cymru believes more collaboration between the sector and politicians are vital to get businesses through the winter, re-build the industry’s resilience and protect the nation’s food supply.

Food 7 Cymru, launched at the Winter Fair in Builth Wells, will represent the interests of the food and drink supply chain in Wales and identify measures where industry and Government can work together for the benefit of Welsh food and drink. 

The new group includes Association of Convenience Stores, Farmers Union of Wales, Food and Drink Federation Cymru, Logistics UK, NFU Cymru, UK Hospitality Cymru and the Welsh Retail Consortium.

This group brings together a collection of trade associations who share a commitment to collaboration, a passion for innovation and a shared purpose to drive the benefits the food and drink industry delivers for the Welsh economy. 

A statement from Food 7 Cymru said: “The launch of Food 7 Cymru utilises our collective voice to outline to the Welsh Government and other stakeholders the issues the food and drink supply chain are currently facing across Wales. 

“The food and drink sector lies at the heart of the nation and this is reflected in the important role the industry plays in boosting the Welsh economy, with exports of Welsh food and drinks currently at record levels. 

“Our industry is contending with soaring energy and ingredient costs while delivering a dynamic workforce and hitting our Net Zero ambitions. Only by collaborating with Government, can we find the solutions to grow our businesses, support the economy and deliver jobs for Wales.”