Wholesalers meet MPs to highlight crucial role, challenges

Representatives of leading wholesalers on Tuesday (3) met more than 50 MPs, introducing them to the wholesale sector and setting out some of the most pressing challenges facing members.

Set against the backdrop of the Chancellor’s recent budget, the parliamentary “drop-in” event brought together the senior political figures from across the spectrum to meet with representatives from the Federation of Wholesale Distributors (FWD) membership and their suppliers.

With 335 MPs elected for the first time during July’s election, the event provided an invaluable opportunity to discuss wholesale’s central role in driving growth as the sector continues to add £3bn of gross value to the UK economy annually.

Those in attendance included Chair of the Energy Security and Net Zero Committee Bill Esterson MP, former Chief Whip Wendy Morton MP, and Deputy Speaker Caroline Nokes MP, meeting senior wholesalers from Bidfood and Brakes, and suppliers Diageo, Suntory and PepsiCo.

Commenting on the event, FWD Chief Executive James Bielby said, “With many new faces returned to Parliament in July, our parliamentary drop-in event was a fantastic opportunity to showcase the essential role our members are playing in driving economic growth.

"The incredible interest and support we received on the day from MPs is a testament to the work of our members and a recognition of the critical role they play in serving the public sector.

“With 60,000 people directly employed in our industry, every day, our members serve the nation in often difficult economic circumstances. Yesterday was therefore an excellent opportunity to talk through several pertinent policy areas, including business rates, wider Budget implications, and wholesale crime.”

“Over the coming months, I look forward to expanding our network through wider engagement in Parliament to champion the issues that matter most to members so they can continue to supply high-quality food and drink across our country.”