The Confederation of Food and Drink Industries of the EEC’s (CIAA) end of year review of the European food and drink industry’s performance shows that, in 2005, the food and drink turnover registered a 2.6% growth, a slight increase on the figures observed over the past 10-15 years during which the industry experienced a 1.8% average growth per annum.   

 

The research, which covers the whole food and drink industry, compiles indicators from various databases. It gives an overview of the structure of the industry, evaluates trade activities and highlights the role of the EU industry on global markets.   

 

The research shows that SMEs continue to dominate the industry, accounting for about 50% of the total turnover.   

 

In terms of sector, the ‘Various Food Products’ category is the largest sector of the food and drink industry. The category, which includes a wide range of activities such as bakery, pastry, chocolate and confectionary products, accounts for 26% of the total turnover and 42% of the workforce.

 

In the various food products and beverages, meat and dairy categories, more than 60% of EU turnover is processed in four Member States. Germany dominates the ‘various products’ category.