New research confirms the UK food and drink sector’s determination to maintain close ties with EU suppliers, despite the complexities introduced by Brexit.
The survey, conducted on behalf of the European Commission, gathered responses from wholesalers, importers, producers, and HORECA professionals across seven food and beverage categories. It found that a majority remain committed to EU imports in the year ahead.
Wine and dairy/cheese sectors showed the strongest allegiance, with 100% of respondents planning to source additional SKUs from the EU. Beer and spirits (80%), charcuterie and meat (80%), and bakery (70%) also indicated a clear commitment to maintaining EU import connections.
By contrast, confectionery and fruit & vegetable sectors exhibited the highest uncertainty, with just 30% planning to source additional SKUs from the EU by 2025.
UK industry professionals cited quality (95%), pricing (81%), authenticity (78%), and sustainability (77%) as their most critical considerations when selecting products. EU products were especially appreciated for their authenticity (79%) and tradition (70%), with diversity (64%), taste (62%), safety (59%), and high quality (54%) also ranking as significant factors.
EU certifications such as Protected Designation of Origin (PDO), Protected Geographical Indication (PGI), and Organic labels were deemed important by 66% of respondents. Recognition of these certifications remains high, with the European Organic Products label most widely recognised (93%) and the PGI label familiar to 78%.
The research, conducted in April 2024, aligns with the UK Government’s implementation of the Border Trading Operating Model (BTOM), designed to optimise border processes while maintaining security.
“These insights demonstrate that despite the challenges and complexities of new cross-border trade agreements, the EU remains a valued partner and important resource for the UK’s food and drink industry and is likely to remain that way,” said Andrew Crumpton, founder of AMC Consulting and advisor to the ‘More Than Only Food & Drink’ campaign.
Veryan Bliss, Managing Director of Food Intelligence and fresh produce advisor to the EU’s ‘More Than Only Food & Drink’ campaign, supported these findings: “It is clear that the relationship between the UK and EU is incredibly important. In 2023 the UK was the number one destination for EU agri-food, accounting for 22% of exports and with a value of €51.3 billion.”
Bliss also stressed the value of EU imports for year-round produce supply: “The geographical diversity of the EU ensures a steady supply of seasonal produce and often complements the UK’s own growing patterns. When certain crops are out of season in the UK, EU producers support the offer, ensuring that UK retailers can offer a consistent, high-quality selection to consumers throughout the year.”
