GUEST COLUMN:
Ffion Moseley
Chartered Accountant
Castell Howell Foods
Food security and supply chain resilience have become pressing issues, increasingly spotlighted by recent geopolitical events.
As a food producer and wholesaler managing the import of 14,000 product lines – approximately 20% of which are sourced internationally – the impact of global events on our operations has been brought into sharp focus.
The remaining 80% of our products come from within the UK. But this doesn’t insulate us entirely from the turbulence affecting supply chains worldwide.
Our experience highlights the profound impact of external factors on the timing and reliability of deliveries. Geopolitical tensions, regulatory shifts, and climatic changes all converge to create a challenging environment for food producers.
For instance, Brexit has brought about significant changes in regulations, paperwork, and border controls, requiring us to adapt swiftly to new norms. Navigating these complexities has demanded flexibility and resilience from our entire team.
A cornerstone of our strategy has been a strong focus on local procurement, particularly of Welsh beef. By sourcing locally, we mitigate some of the risks associated with international supply chains. Dealing with local farmers ensures more predictable transport logistics and fewer disruptions.
This localised approach has proved successful, as it reduces our dependency on longer, more vulnerable supply routes and fosters stronger relationships with local producers.
However, even within the UK, we face challenges beyond our control. Climate change has had a tangible impact on agricultural production. Extreme weather conditions affect the availability of key produce items. For example, recent shortages in parsnips were directly linked to adverse weather.
Such events highlight the fragility of our food systems and the need for adaptive strategies.
To manage these risks, we have implemented measures to ensure supply continuity. Diversifying our supplier base, both locally and internationally, helps us spread the risk and maintain a steady flow of products. This approach allows us to offer alternatives to our customers when specific items are in short supply.
However, this requires constant vigilance and the ability to respond quickly to changing circumstances.
Internally, our team is regularly updated on supply chain issues, allowing us to make informed decisions and communicate effectively with our customers. This transparency is crucial in maintaining trust and managing expectations. Every day brings new challenges, but our commitment to adaptability and proactive planning helps us navigate this complex landscape.
Food security and supply chain resilience needs to be at the forefront of what we do as an industry. As we continue to face global uncertainties, we must prioritise these issues to ensure the stability and reliability of food supplies.
Collaborative efforts between producers, suppliers, and policymakers are essential to building more resilient food systems.
Whilst the challenges are significant, they also present opportunities for innovation and improvement. By focusing on local procurement, diversifying our supply base, and maintaining open communication, we can enhance our resilience and continue to meet the needs of our customers.
