Updates & Alerts
UK Addresses on Packaging
The UK Government has postponed the legal requirement to include a UK address on products imported from the EU until end of 2023. We ask all suppliers that have not yet added a UK address to packaging to start the process of adding a UK address now and ensure an address is on packaging well before the deadline.
Jim Gouldie, Supply Chain and Technical Services Director
What was your favourite experience/learning from 2023?
I’d definitely say my standout moment of 2023 was travelling to Moldova and Ukraine with Hope4 to witness first-hand the impact of the humanitarian crisis following the outbreak of the war. The experience was incredible and humbling, and the fact that Bidfood have done so much to support and we continue to do so, at a time where we are in a cost of living crisis and are already supporting many UK charities, makes me very proud.
What do you predict needs to be on everyone’s radar in 2024?
Looking ahead to next year and beyond, unfortunately, whilst the humanitarian crisis no longer makes news headlines, the harsh reality is that many Ukrainians are living in desperate circumstances. Refugees have little or no means of support and have often been living off savings, but are unable to continue this for much longer and are then faced with a terrible decision – either return to face what remains of their homes in a country at war or seek wider support in whatever way possible.
There are many ways the industry can support Ukraine and particularly the work that Hope4 does. I hope others do get in touch and review what else can be done to help, and that businesses make time and resources, be that financial or like ourselves by donating food… or simply offering emotional support or opportunities to source Ukrainian products to support their remaining industry.
I am hoping to go back to visit again next February and see what has changed during another year of suffering for many and what more we can do to support.