Summary of the Keynote Speech at the Food and Drink Federation Investment Summit 2025
Ambrey Baker attended the Food and Drink Federation Investment Summit 2025, where the keynote speech set a clear tone for the year ahead. The Minister opened by emphasising the importance of partnership between government and industry, drawing on experience representing businesses and highlighting how much more can be achieved when both sides work together.
The Minister recognised the scale and significance of the UK food and drink sector. It was described as the country’s largest manufacturing industry, larger than automotive and aerospace combined, employing nearly half a million people and contributing £37 billion to the economy. The sector also exports £25 billion of food and drink worldwide and plays a central role in supporting communities and driving regional economic growth.
A personal reflection on a visit to the Pladis Biscuit Research and Development Centre illustrated the innovation, food science and manufacturing excellence that underpin the sector. This was linked to the core idea that food security is national security and that a resilient food system supports long-term economic strength.
The speech echoed earlier comments from Minister Kate Dearden on export support and a commitment to reduce regulatory burdens by 25 percent. The Minister confirmed that food and drink remain a top priority across departments and that the government’s mission to grow the economy aligns with the sector’s ambitions for investment and stability.
Trade featured prominently. The Minister highlighted the work to reset the UK’s relationship with the EU and confirmed that SPS negotiations have started. These are expected to reduce paperwork, lower costs and improve the movement of goods. The work of the Agri-Food Attachés was acknowledged, with 41 market access barriers removed this year. The Minister also announced a new process from Defra, DBT and HMT to identify business tariff suspensions. This will allow companies to identify which tariffs could be removed to reduce input costs where ingredients are not produced in the UK.
Regulation was another major theme. The Minister acknowledged concerns about uncertainty and short-term policymaking and introduced a new Food Inflation Gateway. This system will assess the impact of future regulations on food businesses and consumer prices, giving companies clear visibility of what is coming and when. Better coordination between departments aims to prevent multiple new regulatory requirements landing at the same time. This clarity is intended to support investment in technology, automation and AI, which the Minister linked to improved productivity and cost control.
The speech also referred to the wider Good Food Cycle strategy, which sets out outcomes for a healthier, more affordable, sustainable and resilient food system. Investment in healthier products and more efficient production was framed as essential for competitiveness and for attracting talent. Work with Skills England aims to ensure that the sector has the skilled workforce needed for advanced manufacturing and future growth.
The Minister concluded by announcing two key measures: the process for business tariff suspensions and the creation of the Food Inflation Gateway. The commitment was clear. Government intends to work with the sector to reduce costs, simplify processes and give businesses the confidence to invest and innovate. The Minister closed by stating that when the sector thrives, Britain thrives.
For Ambrey Baker, the message resonates strongly. The sector’s focus on investment, modernisation and stability mirrors the work we deliver for clients who depend on safe, efficient and future-ready industrial facilities. We welcome the direction set out at the summit and the continued emphasis on partnership, clarity and long-term growth.
For further information or enquiries regarding project coordination, refurbishment and maintenance delivery, lifecycle planning, and support within live operational environments, please contact:
Matthew Waldeck – Head of Client Solutions
