Figures released by food and drink support company, Project HELIX, reveal that it has had an impact of over £161 million on the Welsh food industry since it launched in 2016.

According to the data, Project HELIX has supported 474 businesses in the sector, creating 428 jobs in the process. The figures also show that the company has helped create 1010 new products by supporting 257 business start-ups.

Over the last twelve months, Project HELIX also revealed that it has helped the Welsh food and drink industry navigate the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic by providing a range of support including mentoring companies through remote food safety audits and helping them capitalise on new consumer trends such as the growth of online retail.

“With its impact of over £161 million, Project HELIX remains at the forefront of the continued growth of the food and drink manufacturing industry in Wales, and its support has directly resulted in the creation and safeguarding of thousands of jobs.”

The Welsh Government and EU-funded project is delivered by Food Innovation Wales, a partnership of three food centres based in north, mid/west and south Wales.

Commenting on the update, Minister for Environment, Energy and Rural Affairs, Lesley Griffiths, said: “This latest set of figures from Project HELIX shows the positive effect it continues to have on our vibrant Welsh food and drink industry.

“With its impact of over £161 million, Project HELIX remains at the forefront of the continued growth of the food and drink manufacturing industry in Wales, and its support has directly resulted in the creation and safeguarding of thousands of jobs.

“Throughout the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic, Project HELIX has helped companies adapt and innovate. I encourage Welsh manufacturers to explore the support opportunities which are available to them through Project HELIX.”