‘Ensure wholesalers not unfairly penalised’ urges FWD

Food & Drink Wholesale UK (FWD) responds to Chancellor Rachel Reeves’s Spring Statement

As Rachel Reeves announces her headline-grabbing Spring Statement, James Bielby, CEO, FWD responds:

“FWD: Food & Drink Wholesale UK fully supports the government’s mission to drive economic growth and restore stability to the UK economy. The Spring Statement comes at a time of significant economic headwinds, with sluggish growth, rising borrowing costs, and a tough trading environment for businesses across the supply chain. Wholesalers are at the heart of the UK’s economy, keeping schools, hospitals, and care homes stocked with essential goods while supporting thousands of jobs across the country.

“However, the fiscal challenges outlined today make it even more critical that the government does not add to the burden facing our sector. With business rates reform on the horizon, we urge the Chancellor to ensure wholesalers are not unfairly penalised. Our sector operates on wafer-thin margins, and additional costs could force businesses to cut jobs, limit investment, and even withdraw from serving vital public services. While we recognise the need for fiscal responsibility, the government must ensure that policies designed to target online giants do not unintentionally undermine the essential food and drink supply chain.

“Now more than ever, we need policies that support growth, encourage investment, and enable wholesalers to continue playing their vital role in communities across the UK.”

economy Food & Drink Wholesale UK FWD Government James Bielby Rachel Reeves spring statement