United Kingdom: Exporter Guide

In 2023, the cost-of-living crisis will replace COVID as the key challenge to the UK food and drink sector. Prices have increased at the fastest rate in 40 years, as the war in Ukraine, supply chain issues, and increases in energy prices make an impact. According to the British Retail Consortium, the UK’s food inflation is at a 45-year high at 12.4 percent. The UK grocery market sector was worth $260 billion in 2021. In 2023, discounters will be the biggest growing channel, driven by consumers looking to save money. The UK foodservice sector will experience a decrease in demand as consumers eat out less, instead of buying premium meals from supermarkets. The UK continues to present strong market opportunities for many U.S. consumer-orientated products, including specialty food products, food perceived as healthy, wine, sauces, fruit, nuts, and juices.