Invest in innovation
Innovation has been key to the continuing success of the
food and drink industry.
"Manufacturers are well known for investing in product
innovation, however, there is a low level of technical
investment in research."
In order to harness the expertise and knowledge within our
university sector, there must be a greater understanding and
awareness of the practical benefits that can be gained by the
industry. Innovation will make our industry more profitable in
the short, medium and long term. In order for that potential to
be unlocked, Government must facilitate that process.
Greater access to innovation
Our industry uses product and
process innovation very effectively to increase profitability.
However many companies are not aware of what innovation in
the broadest sense can do for them. Access to advice on
innovation has to be less complex and easier for businesses
to understand the practical benefit of investing in this area.
Funding for innovation.
We welcome support for businesses
to invest in innovation. But there are many different funding
routes available that make it difficult for businesses to know
where to turn for support such as innovation vouchers,
knowledge transfer partnerships, R&D grants to name a few.
To improve take up of these schemes the funding routes
must be simplified.
"We must also protect investment in innovation,
particularly the innovation that directly impacts industry
as this will encourage long term business growth."
Innovation network to improve business and academic
collaboration.
Innovation has made our industry more
profitable. However, as many different stakeholders have a
part to play in this, the industry is calling for the creation of an
Innovation Network for the Food and Drink Industry.
This network would bring together the universities, the
research institutes, the manufacturers and the innovators to
determine what needs to be done to facilitate the discussion
between academia and business but also to ensure that the
industry can have a voice within the university sector.
More information
Download PDF: Manifesto: Supporting our Industry. Supporting growth. Supporting Scotland.