Why Every Exporter Needs a UK Address on Food Labels

The UK remains one of the most competitive food and drink markets in the world. But since 1 January 2024, one overlooked regulation has stopped many overseas products at the border: every pre-packed item must now carry a UK address on its label.

The Legal Requirement

Under UK law, all pre-packed food and drink products must display the name and physical postal address of the Food Business Operator (FBO).

- If your business is based in the UK → your company’s UK address must be listed.

- If your business is outside the UK → the UK importer’s address must appear instead.

- A PO Box, email, or website is not sufficient. A verifiable, physical address is required.

Why It Matters

This is not a small technicality. Missing or incorrect details can result in:

- Border rejection or delays at UK ports.

- Costly relabelling or re-stickering of stock on arrival.

- Loss of buyer confidence, with retailers refusing to list non-compliant products.

Applies to All Categories

This requirement applies across the board, from snack bars and dried fruit to bottled drinks and ambient groceries. There are no exemptions for ambient goods, or for products already compliant in the EU.

The Fabmundo Solution

For factories without a UK base, Fabmundo provides:

- A UK contact address for packaging and labelling compliance.

- A compliance review service covering BRCGS, HFSS and allergen declarations.

- A trusted UK presence to reassure buyers, retailers, and import authorities.

For overseas factories looking to grow in the UK, the message is clear: without a UK address, your products will not pass the first hurdle. Fabmundo exists to bridge that gap, ensuring compliance, reducing risk, and helping your products land on UK shelves with confidence.