Productivity
Productivity is a measure of how efficiently a business uses its labour, or its
workers, and its capital, such as its factories and vehicles. Government
research
shows that productivity in the UK's food and drink industry is better than
other
parts of the food industry and the economy as a whole.
To maintain this excellent track record on productivity, it is important the
food industry is able to hire the right kind of staff. However, there are many
challenges to overcome. Evolving technology, for example, means that there will
be
a
much reduced requirement for unskilled staff in the near future, but an
increased
demand for technicians, machine operators and skilled craftsmen. The
industry
also needs more food scientists and technologists. The number of
students
studying
for qualifications in science and technology is falling, while
demand
for people
with such training is increasing by 4% per year.
Food companies are concerned that in future productivity could be affected by a
shortage of staff with the right skills, which is why FDF supports the work of
Improve, the Sector Skills Council for the food manufacturing industry. Improve's
work
will help companies recruit the right calibre of staff by promoting the
industry
as an attractive place to work. It will also help companies develop staff
through training so that their skills needs can be met. FDF also believes extra
funding for skills development announced by the Government in this year's
budget
is
good news for the food industry. The decision to fund a £6 million programme
to
support science in schools is particularly welcome.
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