FWD Column: Uniting to shape the future of the sector

In his first Wholesale News column as Food & Drink Wholesale UK (FWD) chair, Tom Gittins shares his vision for the role and his message to members

Taking on the role of chair is both an honour and a responsibility. What excites me most is the opportunity to support and build on FWD’s longstanding role in ensuring that wholesale continues to have a strong and credible voice where legislative decisions are made.

Representing wholesale at a national and parliamentary level matters deeply to me, having seen first-hand how government decisions directly affect wholesalers.

We cannot afford to be reactive. Being part of policy discussions early and helping shape outcomes before they are set in stone is essential, and this is where FWD already plays a vital role on behalf of the sector. As chair, my focus is on supporting and strengthening our collective voice, ensuring it remains informed, credible and influential.

There is growing recognition that wholesale is critical infrastructure, not only economically but socially too. However, recognition alone is not enough. What matters is meaningful engagement. One of the biggest opportunities ahead is continuing to position wholesale as part of the solution to government priorities such as regional economic growth, food security, local employment and support for small businesses. When our case is framed in this way, FWD is most effective.

Visibility

That visibility also starts closer to home. FWD events are more than networking opportunities – they are where intelligence is shared, ideas are challenged and strategy takes shape. What sets them apart is the quality of discussion among the key decision-makers in the room. Delegates gain insight into regulatory change, consumer trends and emerging risks, helping businesses step back from day-to-day pressures and understand the bigger picture.

We also need to be realistic about the challenges wholesalers face. Rising costs continue to squeeze margins, while regulatory demands grow and labour shortages persist. These are not challenges that can be solved alone, which is why collective action remains so important. Whether campaigning for business rates reform or advocating for effective circular economy policy, our strength lies in acting together.

Collaboration must extend beyond lobbying. FWD’s 2026 strategy rightly emphasises closer working with suppliers and wholesalers to strengthen food system resilience. Shared data, joint planning and open communication are essential.

Ultimately, the future of wholesale depends on its people, which is why I am a passionate supporter of FWD’s Diversity in Wholesale and Future Leaders programmes. Our sector needs fresh thinking, diverse perspectives and a next generation equipped to lead.

So what does success look like for me as chair? It means supporting FWD to continue to be a respected and influential voice in Westminster; to see membership thrive because businesses recognise real value in engagement; and it means helping the sector be recognised for its innovation, resilience and people.

My message for members is simple: FWD is your trade body, so use it. Attend events. Engage with the policy work. Share your challenges and experiences. The stronger and broader our collective voice, the harder it is to ignore. Together we can ensure wholesale continues to shape its own future.

Diversity in Wholesale events Food & Drink Wholesale UK Future Leaders Forum FWD FWD column Government policy Tom Gittins