Region’s food and drink sector says cheers to soaring exports

Exports of Yorkshire and the Humber food and drink increased to £1.2bn in the year to June 2018, a rise of 7.9% compared to the previous 12 months, the latest HMRC figures show.

The products that showed the most significant growth in exports over the period were sugar (up 38% to £62m), along with dairy and hens’ eggs (up 19% to £79m).

Meanwhile fish products were the most popular food and drink exports over the same period, totalling £670m.

The statistics also show that more firms in the region are targeting Australia, with 32% more food and drink exported to the country during the period when compared to the previous 12 months.

Yorkshire food and drink firms benefiting from strong appetite for British produce include Leeds brewer Northern Monk Brew Co.

The company now exports to 22 countries including Japan, New Zealand, France and the US and aims to increase its turnover to £4m by the end of 2018 with the help of overseas sales.

The brewery is an one example of a local producer supported by the Food is GREAT campaign, the government initiative to showcase UK food and drink overseas, and to help firms export.

Mark Robson, head of regions, Yorkshire and the Humber at DIT, said: “There are many Yorkshire and the Humber food and drink firms, from breweries to ice-cream makers, that are experiencing phenomenal success thanks to exporting.

“Exporting can be an extremely lucrative prospect and help a business become more resilient. We have a team on the ground ready to help firms either start exporting or explore new territories. Selling overseas does however come with its challenges, and this is why our team of experts is on hand to support. Whether it’s advice on the logistics of selling products abroad or support on trade missions to new countries, businesses thinking of reaching out should get in touch with our team today.”

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