The prepared consumer foods sector plays a significant role in the economy with annual output of €2.6 billion, exports of €1.3 billion and direct employment of 16,000. The sector is one of the fastest growing sub-sectors of the Irish food industry, with growth at about 10% per annum. The prepared consumer foods sector is comprised of almost 200 companies out of a total of 700 food processing enterprises in Ireland and 75% of exports go to the UK.
The key drivers in the sector include changes in consumer eating habits, a health focus, snacking products, cooking times, food service and new eating occasions such as in-car dining. The sector continues to develop high levels of growth based on market knowledge, customer led innovation and service. I am satisfied that the sector has kept pace with international developments and is well positioned to supply key blue chip customers in the UK.
My Department and the food development agencies work closely with Irish food sector companies to assist them to develop, commercialise and market products that satisfy consumer demand and preferences across the main drivers of consumption. The food related provisions of the national development plan are focused on enhancing the competitiveness and innovative capability of the industry and ensuring market opportunities can be exploited.