How do drought conditions affect UK food and drink?

November 6, 2025

You may have seen our recent spotlight on the challenges currently facing UK agriculture. However, these issues are not limited to one sector; they represent a wider, shared challenge for industries across the country.


As the countdown continues and the momentum builds to our upcoming conference, Beyond Drought: From Risk to Resilience, we spoke to Principal Hydrogeologist, Shona Symon, regarding the growing pressures facing our food and drink industry.


Shona, given the ongoing drought declarations and recurrent warm weather experienced, could you provide us with an overview of the challenges facing those in the food and drink industry?


'Absolutely. Given the rapidly shifting nature of the UK climate, it is easy to focus on the immediate issues this has on our water resources, such as reduced surface flows and impacts to surface environment. However, as you will have noticed, the problems don't stop when the rain returns, and the damage left behind can be significant and increasingly difficult to combat. 

Across the food and drink industry, the recent high temperatures and dry conditions have highlighted how dependent operations are on consistent water supplies, affecting a range of beverage producers including water bottlers, brewers, and distillers, as well as manufacturers reliant on water for cooling and production stability. These operational challenges are exacerbated by the sector's vulnerability to shifting consumer needs, competing water demands, and the pressure to remain responsive and adaptive to these changes.'


Has the situation improved with the recent cooler, wetter weather conditions?


'Many of us working in water related sectors are still paying close attention to weather patterns across the country. Whilst high temperatures have since subsided, and some areas of the country have welcomed an increase in rainfall, drought conditions have been predicted to continue into 2026. It is more vital than ever that our clients act now to build climate resilience into their existing sites to ensure the long-term stability of their operations, avoid production halts, and remain adaptable to future demand fluctuations.' 


Do these challenges differ from the agricultural sector?


'Both the agricultural sector and food and drink industry rely heavily on natural water sources for operational purposes. As a result, both sectors remain vulnerable to the effects of climate change, and changes to the regulatory environment. 


One of the unique challenges faced by brewers, distillers, and food manufacturers during drought conditions is maintaining product consistency. While attention often focuses on the reduction in available water supply, other impacts can be equally significant. Changes in water chemistry, such as variations in mineral content, pH, or temperature , can affect product quality, flavour, and process efficiency. As many producers rely on a single local water source, limited alternatives may mean they must reduce production volumes or temporarily halt operations until conditions stabilise.'


How do you support your food and drink clients with these challenges?


We work closely with many clients nationwide to help navigate these pressures and build climate resilience into new and existing operations. Whilst we are not in charge of the ever-changing regulatory landscape, we can help ensure our clients are well prepared to operate within it. 


That is why on Wednesday 12th November, we will be hosting Beyond Drought: From Risk to Resilience, a one-day event designed for those reliant on natural water supplies. Shona, together with a select line-up of industry experts, will examine the technical and regulatory tools available to understand how to combat drought conditions and build future drought resilience through a water-stewardship approach. 


To find out more, head over to our event landing page below where you will find a sneak preview of the day's discussions, and details on how to book your space. We urge you to book now to avoid disappointment!



About Envireau Water



Envireau Water is a team of expert water scientists and engineers who provide guidance on the management and regulation of natural water systems across the UK. By working collaboratively with our clients and the regulators, we deliver robust, sustainable solutions that meet the requirements of all stakeholders. With a loyal client base and our ability to work seamlessly throughout the four nations of the UK, many of our clients know us individually and trust us to find resolutions to their water problems for years to come. 


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