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Why work in the Food and Drink Industry

Welcome to the world of food and drink manufacturing. The industry represents a diverse collection of businesses and services, and the career opportunities are equally as diverse.

The future is an exciting time for the food and drink industry. Demand for healthy food and drink with positive lifestyle benefits are growing fast. There really has never been a better time to join.

Here are the key facts and figures about the UK food and drink manufacturing industry:

  • The industry has an annual turnover of £77.4 billion.
  • Employs approx 460,000 people.
  • 67% of workers are male.
  • 33% of workers are female.
  • 89% are in full-time employment
  • 11% are in part-time employment.

By 2017, the industry needs 137,000 new recruits including:

32,000 machine operators 32,000 machine operators
35,000 managers 35,000 managers
13,000 skilled craftsmen 13,000 skilled craftsmen
15,000 technical operators 15,000 technical operators
Apprenticeships Apprenticeships
Food and Drink manufacturing industry careers
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Qualifications Qualifications
Food and Drink manufacturing industry qualifications
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