For established businesses the need for innovation poses a problem. Innovation offers huge challenges and opportunities, but is by its very nature a risky business. Often it is affected by factors beyond the direct control of the company. Most food businesses fail because they don’t see or recognise the need for change. They tend to be inward looking and fail to take the time to see the bigger picture. Innovation is a strategic resource. It can help the food business get to where it wants to go. But it does not happen by accident. It can be a complex process that carries significant risk and requires robust and systematic management.