Spanish food & beverage sales grow in 2008

The sector lost 5,000 jobs in the fourth quarter, out of a total 480,000 jobs. However jobs had been created during the first three quarters of the year.

 Sales of food and beverages in Spain
during 2008 rose by a modest 2.6% to E80.02bn, from E78bn in 2007,
according to the country’s food and beverage industry association
(FIAB).

The association added that the sector’s prospects
look solid for 2009, despite the economic crisis. FIAB added that the
trade balance of the sector is positive, while the risk coverage
increased by eight points.