There may be trouble ahead... or not as the case may be..... all the more reason why leading food and drink manufacturers are coming out fighting and looking for top class managers to see them through a period of uncertainty.
Food Britain backs up the positive vibe, reporting that food exports went up by 9.1% in 2007 to £11.45bn and predicting that this would rise to £12.8bn in 2008. For the first time in five years we have food and drink exports outstripping imports.
The results for 2007 were achieved in spite of the resurgence of foot and mouth disease, which hit meat exports last year. The best growth sectors were meat (worth £864m), followed by dairy at £805m, and the cereals (bulk cereals, breakfast cereals and bakery products) at £1.36bn, and drinks (£4.1bn).
If we are entering difficult times, a career in food and drink is probably a good place to be!
In previous economic slow downs the food industry has more often that not been the last sector to be hit. With the housing market facing meltdown, related industries like DIY, furnishings etc are hit pretty quick. From a retailer's perspective, the categories then start to tumble in quite a well ordered way! First to see the effects is normally menswear (Dad can do without!) and more expensive items such as women's outerwear. Then it works its way though the product ranges finally hitting childrenswear, as this category cannot be denied as kids grow and grow of course. And finally food. In some instances "treat" product ranges such as confectionery can increase in sales as everyone gets so fed up and turns to the endorphin rush of good 70% cocoa solids! We all need a treat occasionally and if it means that £50 dinner at a restaurant has to go, then a nice meal at home is the next best thing. So in this light, careers in the food industry could be regarded as a highly sensible option.