Overview
The food and drink manufacturing industry is the largest manufacturing sector in the UK, contributing over £104 billion annually to the economy. Employing around 456,000 people, it accounts for 13% of the UK’s total manufacturing workforce. The industry is constantly evolving, with 10,000 new products launched every year, driven by innovation, consumer trends, and sustainability efforts.
With total consumer spending on food, drink, and catering reaching £196 billion, the sector is shaped by growing demand for quality, convenience, and ethical sourcing. The rise of functional foods—valued at over £2.54 billion—reflects increasing interest in health, nutrition, and sustainable production.
A career in the food industry offers diverse opportunities, ranging from product development and food science to marketing, logistics, and sustainability. Major employers include Nestlé, Unilever, Coca-Cola, Premier Foods, and Arla, alongside thousands of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that make up over 96% of the UK food and drink sector.
Average Food Graduate Salary
Food Industry Graduate Career Path
There are a variety of roles available in the food industry, depending on your skills, interests, and background. Some of the most popular career paths include:
- Food Science & Product Development – Researching and developing new recipes, improving food safety, and ensuring quality standards.
- Supply Chain & Logistics – Managing the movement of raw materials, coordinating distribution networks, and optimising warehouse operations.
- Retail & Sales – Working in supermarkets, specialist food stores, and major retail brands to enhance customer experience and drive sales.
- Manufacturing & Engineering – Overseeing production lines, packaging innovations, and factory automation.
- Marketing & Brand Management – Creating advertising campaigns, conducting consumer research, and launching new products.
- Sustainability & Food Safety – Ensuring ethical production, environmental compliance, and food hygiene standards.
- Hospitality & Catering – Managing restaurant operations, catering services, and event planning.
Many graduates enter structured graduate schemes offered by major food manufacturers, retail chains, and hospitality businesses. These schemes provide a clear progression path, with the potential to reach management roles within 5–7 years. There are also opportunities to work in international markets, research-based roles, or even start a food business.
- A fast-paced, consumer-driven environment – New product launches, evolving trends, and competitive markets.
- Clear career progression – Many companies offer leadership development programmes.
- Hands-on experience – Involvement in product development, supply chain operations, and market research.
- Flexible working hours in some roles – Jobs in retail, manufacturing, and hospitality may require evening or weekend shifts.
Qualifications and Skills Needed
What proportion of candidates as a percent we place into Food industry careers and the typical qualities graduate employers look for.
GRB Placements for Food by Degree
Typical Candidate Attributes
The food industry welcomes graduates from a variety of backgrounds. However, the following degrees are particularly relevant:
- Food Science, Nutrition & Chemistry – Ideal for food safety, product development, and quality assurance roles.
- Business, Marketing & Management – Suitable for careers in sales, retail, marketing, and supply chain management.
- Engineering & Manufacturing – Essential for roles in production automation, process engineering, and packaging innovation.
- Agriculture & Environmental Science – Useful for sustainability, ethical sourcing, and supply chain roles.
Most graduate schemes require a 2:1 degree, but some employers accept a 2:2 with relevant work experience. Additionally, these essential skills are always good to have under your belt, improve on these skills and you'll see the success:
- Commercial awareness – Understanding consumer behaviour, pricing strategies, and market trends.
- Problem-solving & analytical thinking – Assessing supply chain efficiencies, improving product quality, and interpreting data.
- Communication & negotiation – Essential for sales, marketing, and supplier management.
- Adaptability & multitasking – A fast-paced industry that requires quick decision-making.
- Teamwork & leadership potential – Many companies promote from within, rewarding strong leadership skills.
Application & Recruitment Process
The hiring process varies by company but typically includes the following steps:
- Online Application & CV Submission – Highlighting academic qualifications, work experience, and relevant skills.
- Psychometric Tests – Numerical, verbal reasoning, and situational judgment assessments.
- Video or Telephone Interview – Assessing motivation, industry knowledge, and communication skills.
- Assessment Centres & Case Studies – Group exercises, problem-solving tasks, and business case evaluations.
- Final Interview & Job Offer – A one-on-one interview with senior managers before securing the role.
Many food industry employers also value internships, placements, and part-time work in relevant areas such as hospitality, retail, or food production. Gaining hands-on experience can significantly improve your chances of securing a graduate role.
Is the Food Industry the Right Career for You?
A career in the food industry is well-suited for individuals who thrive in fast-paced environments, enjoy problem-solving, and are passionate about consumer trends and innovation. If you are interested in sustainability, business growth, or food technology, this industry offers long-term career prospects and diverse opportunities.
Whether you see yourself developing new food products, managing logistics and supply chains, or driving marketing and brand awareness, the food sector provides endless career possibilities. With the UK food industry continuing to grow and evolve, now is an exciting time to be part of this dynamic and rewarding field.
Sources for Further Information
Food Standards Agency www.food.gov.uk
Food and Drink Federation www.fdf.org.uk
Scottish Food and Drink Federation www.fdfscotland.org.uk