The FMT Blog
Opinion, analysis and musings from the FMT editorial team and expert guest writers about the food processing and manufacturing sector.
Pablo Isla takes over as Nestlé chair
The board of directors at Nestlé have revealed that Pablo Isla has been appointed chair, and will assume his position on 1st October.
Food inflation rises to 5.1%
The Office for National Statistics has published the latest consumer price inflation rates, finding that the 12-month inflation rate for food had risen.
US access to UK dairy market may weaken food security
The National Farmers’ Union, along with Dairy UK, has warned Government against allowing increased US access to the UK food market.
Worldpanel finds 51.2% of sales are own label lines
The latest figures from Worldpanel by Numerator have shown that take-home sales at the grocers grew by 4.8% over the four weeks to 7th September compared to last year.
Aldi to invest £1.6bn in new stores
Discounter Aldi has committed £1.6 billion to accelerate its store expansion plan over the next two years as it plans to open 21 new stores in the coming 13 weeks.
Hovis CEO steps down after three years
UK bread producer Hovis has announced that Jon Jenkins will step down from his position as CEO of the company after three years of leadership.
Sugar prices rise by 56% on the year
The Food and Drink Federation has updated its food and drink inflation forecast, predicting that it could hit 5.7% by December.
Waitrose H1 sales surpass £4bn while profits fall
The John Lewis Partnership, which owns Waitrose, has reported its interim results for the 26 weeks ended 26th July, finding that the retailer’s sales increased to £4.1 billion.
Ocado revenues driven by 13% increase in order growth
Ocado has released its annual report and financial statements for an elongated 70 week period ending 6th April 2025, finding that it achieved revenue of £3.7 billion.
ABF grocery sales reflect “good growth” across international brands
UK food producer Associated British Foods has provided an update on trading during the second half of the financial year, which will end on 13th September 2025.