Leading research in other sectors such as chemistry and nanotechnology drives innovation in the UK food and drink sector.

Areas such as hi-tech packaging, health and convenience foods are notable strengths.

The food and drink sector generates sales of £70 billion and employs close to 500,000 people.

Key growth areas are in value-added products such as non-European recipes, ready meals and health foods.

Latest figures show that the UK's organic sector alone is worth around £1.2 billion a year and the chilled food market a massive £7 billion, accounting for 60% of the total European chilled food market.

The UK boasts its east midlands region as its fastest-growing for food manufacturing, producing around 15.1% of the nation’s food, drink and tobacco – a figure that has increased by over 40% in just five years.

Leading UK research in other sectors such as chemistry and nanotechnology drives innovation in the food and drink sector.

Read case studies for food and drink companies that have already set up in the UK to find out more about the opportunities.

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