The FMT Blog
Opinion, analysis and musings from the FMT editorial team and expert guest writers about the food processing and manufacturing sector.
EU deal with New Zealand exposes potential flaws in UK arrangements, say UK farmers
Chris Southworth, director of the International Chamber of Commerce, has agreed with UK farmers that New Zealand’s latest trade deal with the EU exposed difficulties in the UK’s trading relationships with both the EU and New Zealand.
FDF warns of higher input costs and impacted growth
The short-term outlook for the UK food manufacturing sector is “not encouraging” as manufacturers are expected to absorb a significant part of input cost increases, according to the FDF.
Food sales for June see growth despite “challenging outlook” for retail
Over the three months to June 2022, food sales increased 2.2% on a total basis and 1.6% on a like-for-like basis, according to the latest figures by the British Retail Consortium (BRC).
Heinz products return to Tesco shelves as pricing dispute is resolved
In a joint statement released by retailer Tesco and manufacturer Heinz, the companies have confirmed that they have reached an agreement that will see the full range of Heinz products return to Tesco shelves and online.
Global food prices decline but remain high year-on-year
Whilst global food prices have fallen for the third month in a row, across many food categories, costs remain far higher than rates recorded in previous years.
PTF recruits new director general
The Provision Trade Federation (PTF) has announced the appointment of Rod Addy as its new Director General. Replacing Andrew Kuyk. Addy will commence his role from 22nd August.
New customs declaration system phasing in
HMRC announced that new importers need to register with the Customs Declaration Service to make their import declarations.
Sealed Air Packforum event reveals trends in fresh protein packaging
Food industry and retail professionals from across Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA) joined Sealed Air’s latest online Packforum event to learn more about the key trends influencing the evolution of grocery shopping.
Mars Inc halts supplies of pet food products to Tesco amid pricing dispute
Global manufacturer Mars Inc has reportedly paused the supply of two of its pet care brands to Tesco, due to a dispute over the supplier’s price rises.
Lurpak cites soaring production costs for butter price rises
A spokesperson for Arla Foods, owner of butter manufacturer Lurpak, has said that rises in price across its range of products in UK supermarkets reflect the increase in costs of production for farmers at the start of their supply chain.