FDF chief slams England’s “disappointing” lockdown easing plans

23 Feb 2021 --- The Food and Drink Federation has reacted to yesterday’s changes to England’s lockdown restrictions by highlighting the lack of focus on a “return to normality” for food and drink manufacturers supplying the hospitality and foodservice sectors.

The UK-based organization also calls for significant extensions to the nation’s furlough and credit insurance schemes to support hard-hit F&B manufacturers.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced plans to reopen schools, shops and gyms in England in a phased approach as part of the government’s COVID-19 roadmap. Johnson also outlined his four-step strategy that could see restrictions lifted by June 21, but only if strict conditions are met.

The usual foodservice markets in the UK have seriously declined over the last 12 months, compelling the food sector to urge government action. However, the FDF is not impressed with the lockdown easing proposals, noting how badly food and beverage manufacturers have been hit throughout the pandemic. Their usual foodservice markets have seriously declined over the last 12 months as the country, like the rest of the world, has faced closures.

“It is disappointing but wholly expected that the Prime Minister’s roadmap shows no signs of taking account of any input from business. For a great many of the food and drink manufacturers supplying the hospitality and foodservice sectors, a return to ‘business as usual’ seems an awfully long way off. As such, it is only correct that the Chancellor outlines significant extensions to the furlough and credit insurance schemes as part of his Budget announcement next week,” says Ian Wright, FDF chief executive.

“The food and drink industry is the UK’s largest manufacturing sector. It will therefore be key to the country’s economic recovery, with a footprint in every region. Now is the time for the government to provide additional support to ensure those businesses most at risk can play their part in putting the country back on its feet,” he adds. 

 Edited by Gaynor Selby