Unlocking the Future of Food with Expert Industry Insights

The UK Food Council's Insight Reports Team Deliver Market Intelligence and Research Solutions to Empower the Food Industry, Investors, Media, and UK Government.



Delivering Strategic Insights & Commercial Opportunities

EXECUTIVE CONFERENCES
FOCUS GROUP SESSIONS
ISSUE DRIVEN SEMINARS
ROUND TABLE SESSIONS
SECTOR WORKSHOPS

TRAINING PROGRAMMES

The UK Food Council creates bespoke industry events that tackle the most pressing strategic issues in various sectors across the industry. Whether it's a focus group, round table session, seminar, or conference, each event is meticulously designed to foster a professional environment that encourages insightful discussions and meaningful connections.

These member programmes ensure that each event is tailored to meet the unique needs of our participants, providing valuable insights and strategies to navigate the complexities of today's dynamic business landscape.

Join us to stay ahead of the curve and drive success in your industry.

Insight Research at the UK Food Council


Driving Innovation in the UK Food Industry

The UK food industry is at a critical juncture, facing challenges and opportunities that demand deep understanding and strategic action. The Insight Research division at the UK Food Council plays a pivotal role in addressing these issues, offering cutting-edge analysis and actionable insights to help businesses navigate the complexities of the food sector.

What We Do

At Insight Research, we focus on delivering comprehensive reports and studies that delve into the key dynamics shaping the UK food industry. Our research spans various aspects of the food supply chain, from primary production to consumer trends, and everything in between. We cover essential topics such as:


  • Innovation in Food Production: Exploring the latest advancements in farming techniques, food processing technologies, and sustainable practices.
  • Consumer Behaviour Analysis: Understanding shifting consumer preferences and their impact on foodservice and retail sectors.
  • Market Trends: Identifying emerging trends in the food industry, including the rise of plant-based diets, the demand for locally sourced products, and the impact of digital transformation.
  • Regulatory Landscape: Keeping businesses informed about the latest regulations and policies affecting the food sector, including Brexit-related changes and sustainability initiatives.
  • Supply Chain Dynamics: Analysing the challenges and opportunities within the UK food supply chain, from logistics and distribution to food security.

Key Areas of Focus
Sustainability and Innovation: Addressing the growing need for sustainable practices in food production and distribution.
Digital Transformation: Exploring how technology is reshaping the food industry, from farm to fork.
Consumer Health and Wellness: Analysing trends in healthy eating and the increasing demand for nutritious, allergen-free, and ethical food options.
Economic and Market Analysis: Providing in-depth analysis of market conditions, economic impacts, and competitive landscapes within the UK food sector.

Stay Informed with Insight Research

At the UK Food Council, our Insight Research division is committed to helping businesses thrive in an ever-changing environment. Stay ahead of the competition with our detailed reports, industry insights, and strategic recommendations.

The UK food industry faces a complex array of challenges, from enhancing training and skills development to improving recruitment across all sectors. Innovation is crucial in farming, processing, food security, supply chain management, and food service, demanding focused attention from senior management throughout the industry.

Our Cross-Sector Insight Reports deliver executive-level analysis, offering key insights into the dynamics that need to be developed. These reports are designed to help industry leaders stay ahead of the curve as the industry evolves and reshapes itself on both micro and macro levels.

Embracing the Opportunity for Industry Transformation

The food industry is on the brink of a significant transformation, with a clear opportunity to shift towards a more efficient, productive, and technologically advanced way of working. While charting this path presents challenges, the potential for growth and innovation is immense.

Explore our latest report to understand the strategies that will help your business thrive in this dynamic environment.

Navigating Challenges in the UK Food Service Sector

Competing in the UK food service sector has never been more challenging. With rising labour, transport, and supply costs, along with uncertainties around UK/EU border import duties, businesses face significant hurdles.

Additionally, shifting demographics demand that national and international brands alike adapt their business models to stay competitive. Success in the short term hinges on a keen responsiveness to consumer preferences, while the long-term outlook remains promising.

Explore our latest report to understand the strategies that will help your business thrive in this dynamic environment.

UK Agriculture 2035
The Game Changer

To ensure the future competitiveness of UK farming, finding a 'game-changing' solution is essential. Our latest study, conducted in collaboration with leading industry organizations, identifies the key innovation priorities for the primary production sector through 2035.

This report explores the opportunities and potential risks facing the industry, offering insights that could shape the future of UK agriculture.

Dive into our comprehensive analysis to understand the critical steps needed to secure a prosperous future for UK farming.


UK Grocery Supermarket
Industry Trends (2024-2028)

The UK grocery supermarket industry is set for transformative changes through 2028, driven by sustainability initiatives, technological integration, and shifting consumer behaviours. Key trends include a strong focus on eco-friendly products, the expansion of private labels, and the rise of value shopping due to economic pressures.

Supermarkets are increasingly adopting AI and automation to optimize operations and enhance customer experiences, while also exploring new store formats like convenience and hybrid stores. With a growing demand for health and wellness products, and the need for resilient supply chains, the industry is poised for significant evolution.



UStrategic Areas of Focus

The UK Food Council is dedicated to ensuring a sustainable and resilient food system through its strategic initiatives. Currently, the Council is scoping several critical areas of work, which include:

Human Resources:

In response to the Independent Review into Labour Shortages in the Food Supply Chain, the Council is considering recommendations to address workforce issues. This involves applying insights across the wider supply chain and integrating them with the retail and hospitality sectors.



7. Member Offers:
Enjoy exclusive discounts on industry events, publications, and services. Our members receive special rates on conferences, exhibitions, and other industry-related activities, making it easier to stay engaged and informed.

8. Regulatory Updates:
Stay compliant with the latest regulations and standards. The UK Food Council provides regular updates and expert analysis on policy changes, helping you navigate the complex regulatory landscape.

9. Member Resources:
Access a wealth of resources through our member portal. From white papers and case studies to templates and toolkits, our members have everything they need to succeed at their fingertips.

Sustainable Practices: Promoting environmentally friendly methods throughout the food supply chain to reduce waste and carbon footprint.


Food Safety: Enhancing standards and protocols to ensure the highest level of food safety and quality.

Food Security: Developing strategies to ensure a stable and secure food supply for the UK population.

Innovation Support: Encouraging and supporting innovation within the food industry to drive growth and efficiency.

Professional Development 
Enhance your skills and knowledge through our professional development programs. We offer workshops, training sessions, and certifications designed to help you stay current with industry standards and advance your career.

11. Visibility and Recognition:
Gain recognition for your achievements and contributions to the industry. The UK Food Council celebrates member successes through awards, spotlights, and case studies, enhancing your reputation and credibility.

Stakeholder Collaboration: Bringing together farmers, manufacturers, retailers, policymakers, and consumers to foster a cooperative approach to food system challenges.

By focusing on these key areas, the UK Food Council aims to build a robust food system that benefits both the economy and society, ensuring long-term sustainability and resilience.


Access to Research:
Gain access to ground-breaking research and development projects. Our members can participate in and benefit from innovative research initiatives that drive the future of the food industry.

Marketing Support:
Leverage our marketing platforms to promote your products and services. Members can showcase their brands through our website, newsletters, and events, reaching a broad audience of industry professionals and consumers.

Join the UK Food Council Today!

Become a part of a dynamic community that is shaping the future of the UK food industry. Membership with the UK Food Council offers unparalleled benefits that empower you to thrive in a competitive landscape. Explore the possibilities and take your place among the industry’s leading professionals and organizations.

Dynamic Conferences, Focus Groups, and Seminars:

FOCUS ON EMERGING ISSUES

One of the key strengths of the UK Food Council is in its ability to organize dynamic conferences, focus groups, and seminars at short notice.

These events are designed to swiftly address emerging issues and trends as they appear on the radar. By bringing together experts and stakeholders from various sectors, these gatherings foster a collaborative environment where critical challenges can be discussed, and innovative solutions can be developed in real-time.

This proactive approach ensures that the agri-food chain remains adaptable and responsive to new developments.

Membership Snapshots

UK FOOD INDUSTRY TRENDS

In 2021, the size of the UK grocery market stood at around 212 billion British pounds. The market has been steadily growing since 2004 and is estimated to reach over 241 billion British pounds by 2027.

ACROSS THE INDUSTRY SECTORS

March 2024, around a fifth of the UK population purchased food and drinks online. £128.3bn the agri-food sector contribution to national Gross Value Added in 2021

4.2m people employed in the agri-food sector in 2022, 13.4% of GB employment. 10.5% food and non-alcoholic beverage price increase in real terms in the 12 months to April 2023. £254bn total consumer expenditure on food, drink and catering in 2022. £20.2bn the value of food and drink exports in 2021.

MEMBERSHIP NUMBERS

Membership comprises of 26,456 individuals. These
are senior executives in businesses across the entire
food chain from 'farm to fork'. Growth in membership in 2022 was up 7% on 2020, forecast for 2025 of 1200 new members is on track as of June 2024.

MEMBERSHIP PROFILE
45% of Members hold a Senior Management position
25% of Members hold a Middle Management position
15% of Members are Consulting Industry Suppliers
10% of Members are Academics in the Food Arena
05% of Members are Government Officials

Membership Fees & Applications


Membership Fees and Application

Discover More and Apply to Join the UK Food Council.

Are you ready to become part of a thriving community dedicated to advancing the UK food industry? Joining the UK Food Council is easy and offers a range of benefits designed to support your growth and success.

Driving Change: A UK Food Council Initiative to eradicate food poverty, Backed by:

The UK Food Council proudly holds Approved Partner Status with the United Nations Food & Agricultural Organisation.

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