Six appointments have been made to the Food and Drink Wales Industry Board, which aims to grow and enhance the reputation of the Welsh food and drink sector.
The new members of the board will engage with businesses throughout the country and the Welsh government with the aim of growing Welsh food and drink companies both in Wales and abroad.
The six appointments are:
- Prof David Lloyd – chair of the Food and Drink Wales Industry Board;
- Alison Lea-Wilson – deputy chair of the Food and Drink Wales Industry Board;
- Alison Harvey – agri supply chain advisor at Rural Advisor Co;
- Andy Richardson – partner at European Food and Farming Partnerships (EFFP);
- Graham Black – non-executive director at Seafish;
- Valerie Creusailor – chief executive and co-founder of Goch and Company.
Rural Affairs Minister Lesley Griffiths said: “Welsh food and drink continues to go from strength to strength with exports for the sector reaching £797 million in 2022, a record high.
“The members of the industry board bring with them a wealth of experience, expertise and passion to see the sector grow further still.
“I look forward to working with them as they build on the important work the board does to ensure a thriving future for the food and drink industry here in Wales.”
Food and Drink Wales Industry Board
Chair of the new board Prof Lloyd began his career in the food industry in the laboratories of a bakery based in Cardiff.
He then worked in various parts of the UK for a variety of food companies as technical director.
In his current role at the Food Industry Centre, Lloyd works closely with both the private sector and Welsh government. He advises on issues affecting the sector and has also influenced the Welsh government’s food policy.
On his appointment to the role of chair, Lloyd said: “It is a great honour to be elected as chair of the Welsh Food and Drink Industry Board at this crucial time for the sector (food and drink businesses) in Wales.
“I would like to welcome the newly elected members to the board who are all keen to use the breadth of their experience, knowledge and skills to promote Welsh food and drink and develop local, national and international market opportunities.“
Deputy chair Lea-Wilson is the joint owner of the Anglesey Sea Salt Co Ltd. In 1997, she and her husband David started the company.
They have built it up and it now exports to around 15 countries.
The business has attracted at least 30 awards including gaining 3 golds in the Great Taste Awards.
On her appointment, Lea-Wilson said: “I am delighted to have been appointed as a member of the Food and Drink Industry Board and to serve as its deputy chair.
“Given the challenges we face it is even more important to work together as a sector, taking full advantage of the support offered by the Welsh government to grow our industry in a sustainable way.
“Wales has more than its fair share of great food and drink and we will work collaboratively to ensure its place is recognised in the world.”
