The Food and Drink Federation (FDF) has highlighted significant growth potential in exporting to Central and Eastern Europe, as part of its latest research.
The organisation’s UK food and drink export statistics for 2012 showed exports to Bulgaria increased by 53%, in comparison to 2011, while exports to Eastern Europe have doubled over the past 10 years from £72m in 2002, to £136m in 2012.
During the last 12 years, the FDF said food and drink exports to this region have “delivered high, sustained growth”, with products such as savoury biscuits, as well as ice cream, butter and spreads and chocolate among the most popular.
Steve Barnes, director of economics and commercial services at FDF, said: “With 75% of UK food and drink exports going to Europe, manufacturers can build on this success. Central and Eastern European markets in the region are growing and consumer need is increasing, boosting the appetite for British brands. I am confident there are lucrative opportunities in the region for British food and drinks.”
In light of the research, the FDF is hosting a one-day workshop entitled Exporting to Central and Eastern Europe, taking place on 6 June at the Queen Elizabeth II Conference Centre in London. It will feature speakers from major food and drink retailers, including Tesco.
As part of the event, attendees will be able to take part in sessions dedicated to specific countries, including Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Austria, Hungary, Former Yugoslavia (Croatia, Slovenia and Serbia), Romania and Bulgaria.
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