The UK Budget addressed many of the key issues that The Foodservice Equipment Association (FEA) has been lobbying for on behalf of the industry, such as the furlough extension and VAT cuts. However, the Association warns that not enough is being done in terms of a growth strategy for hospitality and, more especially, the supply chain the industry relies on.
“We welcome the support the government is giving – they’ve accepted at least some of the recommendations we and our collaborators, such as UK Hospitality and the Textile Services Association, have been pushing. However, what’s needed is a growth strategy that will do more to rebuild the foodservice industry, and its supply chain, as we embark on the recovery,” says Steve Hobbs, chair of FEA.
FEA believes the strategy will need to include:
- Jobs development – investment and incentives to generate new jobs in the hospitality supply chain.
- Incentives to build and develop business – including, for example, tax breaks to encourage specific critical areas such as energy efficiency.
- Investment development – encouraging people and organisations to invest in the hospitality industry.
- Training–more investment is requiredto give enough people the skills both the hospitality industry and the supply chain are crying out for.
FEA is putting together a position paper for the government and is asking foodservice equipment suppliers for their suggestions for the growth strategy. “We are looking for input that is specific to our industry and its business needs,” says Hobbs.
“We will use the information to lobby Government directly and via our links with other organisations.”
Further details:
The Foodservice Equipment Association (FEA) is the independent voice of the foodservice equipment industry, representing nearly 200 companies who supply, service and maintain all types of commercial catering equipment – from utensils to full kitchen schemes. For more information on FEA visit www.fea.org.uk
