Food and Beverage Manufacturing Recruitment

Food and Beverage Manufacturing Recruitment

The UK food and beverage manufacturing sector is the nation’s largest manufacturing industry, making a substantial contribution to both the economy and employment (Food & Drink Federation, 2024). Employing approximately 486,500 people across 12,195 food and drink factories—ranging from small enterprises to large multinational manufacturers—the sector is vital to the production of a diverse range of products, including processed foods, beverages, dairy, meat, and bakery goods (Food & Drink Federation, 2024; UK Government, 2023).

Retention within this sector remains a significant priority due to high staff turnover and ongoing labour shortages (British Food Manufacturing Association, 2023). Industry research reveals that around 55% of food manufacturing employees are considering leaving their current positions within two years, highlighting the challenge employers face in maintaining a stable workforce (British Food Manufacturing Association, 2023).

At FB Recruitment, we recruit for an extensive variety of roles across the sector, from production operatives, machine operators, and packers, to specialist positions such as quality assurance technicians, maintenance engineers, production supervisors, research and development scientists, and supply chain managers (Recruitment & Employment Confederation, 2024). Our deep industry expertise and wide-ranging networks in food manufacturing enable us to source and thoroughly vet the most suitable candidates for your business.

Geographically, food and beverage manufacturing is concentrated in key UK regions including Greater Lincolnshire, North West England, the Midlands, the South West, as well as areas of Scotland and Wales—each renowned for particular food production specialisms (UK Trade & Investment, 2023). For example, Greater Lincolnshire is recognised as the “Food Valley”, responsible for a significant proportion of the UK’s vegetables, seafood, and poultry (UK Trade & Investment, 2023).

A number of trends are influencing recruitment demand in the sector. Automation and digitalisation are reshaping job requirements, resulting in a growing need for technically skilled workers capable of operating advanced machinery and robotics (British Manufacturing Technology, 2024). Increasing regulatory demands regarding food safety and sustainability also heighten the need for compliance and quality assurance specialists. Furthermore, evolving consumer preferences for healthier and more sustainable products are driving demand for innovation roles within manufacturing (Food Standards Agency, 2024).

Challenges and Opportunities in UK Food and Beverage Manufacturing Recruitment

The food and beverage manufacturing sector is experiencing acute labour shortages, particularly for skilled and semi-skilled positions. Vacancy rates in this sector have exceeded those of other manufacturing industries, with recent data indicating a vacancy rate of approximately 6.3% (Office for National Statistics, 2024). Common shortages include production operatives, maintenance technicians, HGV drivers, and quality control staff (Food & Drink Federation, 2024).

Brexit and tighter immigration controls have exacerbated these shortages, reducing the availability of EU nationals who have traditionally formed a significant part of the workforce (Migration Advisory Committee, 2023). Seasonal fluctuations, especially in agricultural supply chains that feed into manufacturing, further complicate recruitment efforts as organisations strive to meet peak demand with flexible staffing.

Skills gaps remain a particular challenge, notably in technical and compliance roles. The introduction of apprenticeship programmes and government incentives to promote vocational training provide a valuable opportunity to develop talent pipelines (UK Government, 2023). We utilise advanced digital recruitment technologies, including applicant tracking systems and AI-driven candidate matching, to streamline the sourcing and screening process (Recruitment & Employment Confederation, 2024).

Diversity and inclusion initiatives present a further opportunity. Historically male-dominated and lacking ethnic diversity, the sector is now adopting inclusive hiring practices to broaden talent pools and improve retention (Equality and Human Rights Commission, 2024). We actively promote and support these practices to help you build a modern, resilient workforce.

Why FB Recruitment is the Leading, Preferred, and Expert Solution

At FB Recruitment, we specialise exclusively in food and beverage manufacturing recruitment across the UK. Our sector-specific focus ensures we possess an in-depth understanding of the skills, certifications, and cultural fit required for success in food manufacturing roles (fbrecruitment.co.uk, 2025).

Our extensive candidate network spans all levels, from entry-level production workers to senior management and technical specialists. Every candidate we recommend undergoes comprehensive vetting, including compliance checks relating to food safety and right to work, ensuring that you receive qualified, reliable professionals (Recruitment & Employment Confederation, 2024).

Our expertise in regulatory compliance is vital in this highly regulated sector. Our consultants are well-versed in industry standards, including HACCP, BRC, and ISO 22000 (Food Standards Agency, 2024). We leverage modern recruitment technology for fast, effective candidate matching and reduced time-to-hire (Office for National Statistics, 2024).

Clients benefit from our consultative approach, which includes the provision of market insights, tailored candidate sourcing, and post-placement support to improve retention (Health Education England, 2023). We are committed to ethical, inclusive recruitment practices, and actively champion diversity within your food manufacturing workforce (Equality and Human Rights Commission, 2024).

Frequently Asked Questions for Employers

What types of roles do we fill in food manufacturing?
We recruit for production operatives, machine operators, QA technicians, engineers, supervisors, logistics staff, R&D scientists, sales and marketing professionals, and senior management (Recruitment & Employment Confederation, 2024).

How long does recruitment typically take?
Timelines vary by role, but placements typically take between 2–6 weeks from briefing to offer. Urgent vacancies may be filled within one to two weeks through our extensive candidate network (Office for National Statistics, 2024).

What compliance checks do we conduct?
All candidates undergo right-to-work verification, reference checks, criminal background screening (where applicable), and verification of relevant food safety certifications (Care Quality Commission, 2023).

How does our recruitment guarantee work?
We offer a money-back and replacement guarantee should a placed candidate leave within the agreed probation period (usually three months) (Recruitment & Employment Confederation, 2024).

How can you begin working with us?
Simply contact FB Recruitment via our website or by telephone to arrange a discovery call. We will assess your requirements and develop a bespoke recruitment strategy tailored to your organisation (fbrecruitment.co.uk, 2025).

Conclusion and Call to Action

The continued success of the UK food and beverage manufacturing sector depends on securing and retaining the right talent. We offer specialist expertise, an extensive and thoroughly vetted candidate network, and a consultative approach that enables you to navigate labour market challenges with confidence while ensuring compliance and quality appointments.

To strengthen your workforce with skilled, reliable professionals, partner with FB Recruitment—the leading food and beverage manufacturing recruitment specialists in the UK.

Contact us at fbrecruitment.co.uk today to arrange a complimentary consultation and discover how our bespoke recruitment solutions can help your business thrive.