How to Evaluate UK Food and Drink Exporters

September 20, 2022

Whether you’re a British brand looking to expand your reach to international markets or you’re looking to import high-quality products being exported from the UK, you’ll need to partner with reliable and reputable food and drink exporter.

But with several outfits offering similar services, how can you ensure you’re choosing the right one?

Here are a few factors to consider when evaluating UK food and drink exporters.

Look for Specific Food and Drink Exportation Expertise

While there are dozens of UK exporters, very few specialise specifically in the exportation of food and drink.

This is important because food and drink products are subject to a whole host of special rules, regulations and procedures – from labelling requirements to food safety standards. A specialist exporter will have the expertise to help you navigate these complexities and ensure your products comply with all relevant regulations.

They will also understand the specific requirements of transporting food, including those that require strict temperature controls, such as frozen foods, dairy products, and fresh produce.

In short, their expertise will help to ensure your products arrive at their destination in perfect condition.

Browse Their Selection of Brand and Product Categories

Unless you’re looking for specific products, it’s best to partner with an exporter offering a broad range of brands and product categories. Doing so will give you more flexibility when choosing products to export and also allow you to take advantage of any specialisations the exporter may have.

For example, some UK food and drink exporters may not be able to offer free-from or organic products, while others may have a particular focus on baby food or health foods.

It’s also worth checking to see if the exporter offers any products that are exclusive to them – this can give your product range a real point of difference.

Check for Expertise in Your Target Domestic Market

While some countries have plenty of similarities, most have slightly different processes regarding the exportation/importation of food and drink products. Thus, it pays to have a company familiar with your target market’s requirements.

For example, an exporter that regularly ships products to the Middle East will be aware of the unique food safety regulations that apply there and any other specific requirements that need to be met.

This knowledge can save you a lot of time and hassle, as well as ensure that your products comply with all relevant regulations.

Look for a Broad Spectrum of Exportation Services

The final and perhaps most crucial evaluation criterion is the range of services offered by the exporter.

The best UK food and drink exporters, such as Leverbrook Export, offer a comprehensive export services that include shipping, labelling and translation, documentation, and last-mile logistics to ensure your products reach their destination in prime condition and on time.

The best exporters will also have a team of food and drink experts who can offer guidance and advice on the best products to export, as well as help you navigate the complexities of food and drink exportation.

With a holistic approach that includes all elements of exportation, you can be sure you’re in good hands when working with a reputable UK food and drink exporter.

Contact Leverbrook Export Today for All of Your UK Food and Drink Exportation Needs

With almost 50 years of experience in the food and drink industry, Leverbrook Export is one of the UK’s leading food and drink exporters.

We offer a comprehensive service that includes shipping, translation, documentation, and groupage consolidation, as well as a team of food and drink experts who can offer guidance and advice throughout the process.
For more information on our services or to discuss your specific exportation needs, contact us today.