Developments in technology and policy during the 1990's led to huge changes in the food industry. Businesses became increasingly globalised and automated and, as a result of mergers and acquisitions, the main players became larger, fewer and accordingly more dominant but also more efficient.
At the same time the UK population has been growing and becoming older as life expectancy increases and birth rates decline. More women are working; families spend less time eating together and the number of single person households continues to increase. This, coupled with rising affluence, has led to massive demand for quick, convenient foods that require little preparation and an increase in eating out of the home, both in catering establishments and 'on the hoof'.
Although still firmly entrenched in traditional British tastes, the nation's food has become increasingly cosmopolitan. However, significant differences remain between the UK's eating and drinking habits and those of our European neighbours.
Food prices have increased at a greater rate than general retail prices, but as disposable income increases, spending on food accounts for a smaller proportion of the average household budget. Farm gate prices have not increased at the same rate as retail food prices. Competition from imports and the strength of Sterling against the Euro appear to be the main factors forcing downward pressure on prices.
