Investment Opportunities in Shropshire’s Food & Drink Sector
Shropshire is at the heart of a flourishing food and drink industry, celebrated for its exceptional reputation as a culinary hotspot.
It is strategically located near key centres of excellence leading advancements in research and development, innovative technologies, and the cultivation of food skills.
The food and drink sector accounts for 42% of manufacturing employment in Shropshire, compared to 16% in England, with 5,500 individuals employed in the industry.
An ideal location for your food & drink business
Shropshire boasts a diverse portfolio of international, national, and regional artisan brands, including notable companies such as Müller and ABP. The county presents abundant supply chain opportunities in areas such as cold storage, logistics, plastic reduction, sugar reduction, packaging, and processing.
Embracing innovation, Shropshire’s food sector is dedicated to producing top-quality foods with minimal inputs. The industry is also exploring alternative energy solutions and utilising by-products from food production processes.
Industry Clusters and Technological Advancements
Shropshire hosts specialised industry clusters in dairy, meat processing, micro-breweries, and bakeries.
There are opportunities for adopting and leveraging new technologies within the agri-food market while Shropshire is also home to a vibrant community of artisan food producers.
Shropshire also houses Centres of Excellence in Food and Drink
Harper Adams University
A leading centre of internationally significant research excellence with an onsite regional food academy and food research centre.
Ludlow Food Enterprise Centre
Showcasing the very best of Shropshire food produce and visible kitchens allow visitors to see artisan producers making food by hand.
Food-based courses in Shropshire
Shropshire offers outstanding food-based courses through local schools, colleges, and universities such as Harper Adams University, North Shropshire College, and Ludlow and Shrewsbury Colleges Group.
The county also benefits from collaboration with Reaseheath College and the NoWFOOD Centre:
Reaseheath College
An industry leading academy based in Cheshire that run ‘Project Eden’ on behalf of leading companies in the dairy industry.
NoWFOOD Centre
Based at the University of Chester offering comprehensive packages of support to help nurture young businesses and providing research and support for established food manufacturers.
Food tourism in Shropshire
Shropshire is a haven for food and drink enthusiasts, offering a mix of traditional and contemporary culinary delights. From succulent local lamb, ham, and cheeses to ales, wines, and ciders, the county promises a feast for the senses amidst its picturesque landscapes and charming towns.
Find Culinary Excellence in Ludlow
Visitors are eager to visit its restaurants, famous food shops and festivals but that’s just part of the story when it comes to Shropshire’s treasure trove of sweet and savoury sensations. Round every corner and down every lane, there are delicious delights for you to discover.