The UK food and drink industry is facing a serious workforce crisis. A lack of skilled workers has prompted businesses, trade bodies, and the government to unite under the initiative called Mmmake Your Mark. Launched by the IGD, this campaign aims to shine a light on the many rewarding careers available in this vital sector.
Recent research shows a big gap between what young people want in a career and what they know about the food and drink industry. A survey of over 1,000 young people aged 16-25 and their parents highlights the need to change how the industry is viewed. Many young folks are passionate about creative and meaningful careers but often overlook job opportunities in food and drink.
Misconceptions About Career Choices
Surprisingly, more than a third (38%) of young people say their parents have the most influence over their career choices. This can lead to pressure to pursue “traditional” jobs like law or finance, even if these don’t match their interests. Despite this, 61% of them are genuinely excited about creative fields, including food and hospitality. Yet, only 19% realize they can chase these passions in the food and drink sector.
Understanding the Opportunities
The food and drink industry has many hidden roles. Careers in data analysis, sustainability, engineering, and even cybersecurity are all part of this sector. Alarmingly, 72% of young people don’t view it as a place to find their purpose, even though 78% have interests that align with careers in food and drink.
Sarah Bradbury, CEO of IGD, notes, “The food and drink industry is one of the largest private-sector employers in the UK, offering various professional, high-tech, and well-paying careers. We want to inform young people, parents, and career advisors about the incredible opportunities available through the Mmmake Your Mark campaign.”
Looking Ahead
The implications of this lack of awareness could be significant. The UK food system employs around 4.2 million people, making up about 13% of all jobs. Yet, trends indicate that if proactive steps aren’t taken, the sector may face an even greater skills challenge in the next decade. As the UK population is expected to grow, the demand for food will increase, necessitating a stronger workforce in the food and drink sector.
Balwinder Dhoot, from the Food and Drink Federation, says, “The next decade is crucial. We need skilled individuals to hit our targets for sustainability and efficiency.”
To combat these challenges, IGD is calling on businesses to participate in the Mmmake Your Mark campaign. By sharing insights about careers in the industry on social media, they can help draw in the next generation of talent.
Final Thoughts
This initiative not only highlights a pressing issue but also offers a path forward. The food and drink industry holds a wealth of opportunities that deserve recognition. Changing perceptions and informing young people can help fill critical skill gaps that threaten the sector’s future. As we navigate these challenges, understanding and awareness are key to building a resilient workforce in this essential industry.
For more detailed statistics and insights on the UK food and drink workforce, you can check out the report on the IGD website.
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