Willis: Food industry faces mounting risks and falling confidence in risk management in 2026

About this update from Willis Towers Watson Public Limited Company

LONDON, July 09, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Fears over food safety and health have risen sharply, with almost half of companies (45%) naming this among their biggest risks, up from 29% in 2024, amid growing concern over ultra-processed foods and rising litigation exposure. That's according to the  Global Food, Beverage and Agriculture Risk Report 2026 , published today by Willis, a WTW business (NASDAQ: WTW). Rising geopolitical tensions, tariffs and input costs, mounting cyber threats, climate pressures and supply chain risks have also emerged as top concerns putting the food, beverage and agriculture sector under growing strain in 2026. The new findings from Willis Direct & Facultative's latest survey highlight how this increasingly complex and volatile risk landscape is eroding confidence in risk management capabilities, with many leaders reporting they feel less in control of their exposures and lack the tools and board-level support needed to manage them effectively. Despite these headwinds, the sector remains resilient and forward-looking, with businesses prioritising value-for-money products to navigate cost-of-living pressures and sustain near-term profitability. Key findings include: Simon Lusher, Willis' global food, beverage and agriculture leader said: "Food and beverage companies around the world are navigating a risk landscape that is becoming more complex and less predictable by the year. Our latest survey shows that many leaders feel less in control of these risks, reflecting how quickly the environment is evolving. What stands out is how firms are responding – sharpening their focus on resilience and value as pressures build."

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