Paul Freeston pic

Source: Apetito

Freeston has been FDF treasurer and deputy president for the last two years

The FDF has elected Paul Freeston, chair and CEO of Wiltshire Farm Foods owner Apetito, as president.

Freeston is to succeed Jon Woods, general manager of Coca-Cola GB&I, who was elected in 2019.

Freeston has been FDF treasurer and deputy president for the last two years and served on its board for 15.

He has been chair and CEO at Apetito since 2001, during which it has become the leading meals provider to the health and social care sector.

Freeston is also a founder member of the Malnutrition Taskforce and a former president of the British Frozen Food Federation.

He takes the FDF presidency at a time of change for the industry body, with CEO Ian Wright to be replaced by Karen Betts of the Scotch Whisky Association at the end of the year.

Woods, who was already a proactive campaigning force when elected, is credited with steering the FDF through a period of intense disruption for the industry, with Brexit, Covid-19 and supply challenges to navigate.

“I’m delighted and honoured to take over the presidency of the FDF, which commands the respect of both government and industry,” said Freeston.

“I know how valuable this membership is to a business and am very aware that as the UK’s largest manufacturing sector, the food industry has a vital role to play in both employment and the success of the UK economy.

“I would like to pay tribute to Jon Woods, and our previous presidents, who have made a significant contribution to the profile of our industry.

“Jon has made an enormous contribution through an exciting but difficult two years for the food and drink industry.

“The FDF has expanded its membership greatly in the last few years, with now almost 1,000 members across every category of food and drink.”

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