The Institute of Grocery Distribution (IGD) has unveiled a campaign which will encourage young people to pursue a career in the food industry.
The Government-endorsed campaign, titled Mmmake Your Mark, was convened by IGD on behalf of the Food and Drink Sector Council (FDSC), with IGD calling it the result of “exceptional cross-sector collaboration” as businesses, trade bodies and Government get involved.
Supporting organisations include Arla Foods, Bakkavor, National Farmers’ Union, Nestlé UK, Danone, Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), KP Snacks and Compleat Food Group to name a few.
Daniel Zeichner MP, Minister for Food Security & Rural Affairs said: “Food security is national security, and the backbone of a robust food supply chain is a skilled domestic workforce.
“Attracting bright new talent to the industry is vital for the future of UK food and this campaign showcases the UK’s food and drink industry as a vibrant place to work, giving the next generation an opportunity to Mmmake Your Mark.”
Raising awareness of food industry opportunities
IGD said that by highlighting the “diversity of opportunities” and challenging perceptions, the campaign also emphasises the industry’s role in tackling issues such as nutrition, healthy lifestyles, climate change, food security and economic growth.
Those involved in the campaign will take part by engaging in Mmmake Your Mark social media posts and putting out regular recruitment communications.
The organisation fond that 49% of people aged 16-24 have never considered a career in the food and drink industry, with the roles of software engineer (51%), data scientist (41%), technologist (41%) and biochemist (36%) being the top four roles that young people are unaware of in the industry.
“Food security is national security, and the backbone of a robust food supply chain is a skilled domestic workforce.”
Sarah Bradbury, co-chair of the FDSC workforce sub-committee and CEO of IGD said: “Food and drink is the largest private sector employer in the UK, representing over 4 million talented people. This campaign harnesses that scale, uniting our industry to celebrate what makes it so dynamic and rewarding. You can pursue a huge range of careers within food and drink – and together, we’ll show that it’s a place where each individual can make an impact, with great opportunities for development and progression.”
Alongside the campaign, work is reportedly underway to strengthen ties between the industry and the careers system, including rolling out nationwide initiatives in schools, colleges, Job Centres, and prisons to inspire more people to go further with food.
