Members will recall in last week’s newsletter that we asked for your input into a meeting with Defra’s Design & Delivery team to assist with work relating to the application of the labelling requirements as set out in the Windsor Framework.

Many thanks to all of you who took the time to send us your thoughts. The information you provided allowed for a very constructive discussion and ensured that your voices were heard.

During the meeting we managed to table many of the key areas of concern for members including:

• The lack of clarity still needed – for example exactly which goods need to be labelled and when.
• The cost impact involved with shelf, box, or product labelling.
• The feasibility and practicalities of stickering or printing additional information onto frozen goods.
• The time taken to sign off and get new artwork printed.
• The lack of availability at design houses and printers
• How much frozen stock is typically held by manufacturers and retailers.
• The short 1-month grace period before which goods must be compliantly labelled.

Defra was most appreciative of the information provided and our engagement with the team will continue, but for now the information will be taken away for further consideration and used to assist them in producing industry guidance.

In the meantime, they have posed a question back to members:

What are the biggest things government can do to help? – they are keen to explore what financial support they may provide, if it would help.

If any members would be willing to be put in touch with them, to discuss and provide supportive data (they are particularly keen to learn more about packaging costs), then please let deniserion@bfff.co.uk know.

Should anyone want further information on the areas discussed at this meeting then please do not hesitate to contact us.