nabim rebrands as UK Flour Millers to reflect changing times

07-Jan-2021 - Last updated on 07-Jan-2021 at 14:01 GMT

Flour is found in almost a third of all food products sold in the UK. Pic: GettyImages/Milkos

The National Association of British & Irish Millers is changing its name to UK Flour Millers as part of a rebrand aimed at raising the industry’s profile at a pivotal time in its history, thanks to Britain’s recent departure from the EU.

The move will also herald the proposed introduction of devolved milling associations within the Home Nations for the first time.

In a statement, the association said, "Following Brexit, we believe that it will bring us more into tune with the evolving political landscape. Given the devolved nature of food and agriculture legislation in the UK and the final settlement between the UK and the EU, we also envisage the development of national associations to better represent members throughout Great Britain and Ireland.

"Rebranding as UK Flour Millers gives us the opportunity to raise the profile of the UK milling sector and highlight its 21^st century credentials as a professional, reliable, important, modern and efficient industry, with excellent career opportunities across a wide spectrum of specialisms."

Ancient art

“After 143 years, the decision to rebrand as UK Flour Millers has not been taken lightly, but as an acknowledgement of changing times and perceptions," said UK Flour Miller director Alex Waugh.

“Flour milling is an ancient art, but our members invest over 15% of their gross margin every year in infrastructure, research and recruiting the next generation of millers. They quite rightly demand an association that is professional, reliable, important, modern and efficient – reflecting the industry it represents.”

The organisation’s membership encompasses virtually all flour milling businesses in the UK, which together produce over five million tonnes of flour annually. Associate members include plant breeders, grain merchants, pest control companies, engineers and packaging manufacturers linked with the industry.

Flour facts

Flour is consumed by 99% of UK households - Kantar World Panel
Flour is found in almost a third of all food products sold in the UK - Ascential

Waugh added, “The twin challenges of COVID and Brexit last year have reinforced our vital role as both an advocate and a champion of the flour milling industry, and as UK Flour Millers, we will continue to work closely with government and consumers on behalf of our membership.”

The newly-named UK Flour Millers also includes the Flour Advisory Bureau which has been advising consumers on domestic flour use since 1956.