The organisers of Scotland’s Speciality Food & Drink Show, which took place this week at the SEC in Glasgow (21 to 23 January), said “business was brisk” over the three-day event with many exhibitors reporting a raft of new leads and orders made.
Despite widespread travel disruption caused by storms Isha and Jocelyn, many buyers braved the elements and placed orders, tasted and sourced new stock, and networked with suppliers.
Food and drink companies from across Scotland and beyond tempted buyers from farm shops, delis, hotels and tourist outlets to sample their produce. The three large regional stands from Orkney, East Lothian and Food from Argyll proved popular, as was the Launch Gallery with an array of drinks, cocktails, chocolates and coffee.
Beyond the aisles, there was a busy programme of talks, panels discussions and masterclasses on all aspects of retailing and business from a range of experts. The Scottish minister for small business, innovation, tourism & trade also toured the show and spoke in one of the Scottish Tourism Alliance Spotlight Sessions. Four new companies pitched their products to three retail experts in a light-hearted Nessie’s Den session.
Best Product Awards were judged by Catherine Cameron from Cobbs, Geraldine Bruce from Sainsburys, Linda McLean from Kintyre Larder and Jonathan Macdonald from the Ox & Finch and Ka Pao restaurants. The winners are listed below.
Show director Mark Saunders commented: “The positivity and optimism that abounded at the show was heartening and bodes well for 2025.
“The quality and provenance of the products on display improves each year and we were delighted to showcase some of the best that Scotland has to offer in the food and drink market.”
Best Product Award winners
Confectionery, Biscuits & Snacks
- Gold: Chocolate Tree – millionaire shortbread chocolate bar
- Silver: The Ochil Fudge Pantry – maple & pecan fudge
- Bronze: Chocolatebox – Harry the Haggis
Condiments & Preserves
- Gold: Edinburgh Honey – Hot toddy infused honey
- Silver: The Gin (Jam) Bothy – Scottish chilli jam
- Bronze: Dodger – Negroni marmalade
Drinks
- Gold: Brose oat milk
- Silver: Pochle – apple liqueur
- Bronze: Little Birdie coffee
Chilled & Frozen
- Gold: Clarks Speciality Foods – Toppings haggis sausage roll
- Silver: Rora Dairy – Greek yoghurt
- Bronze: Hebridean Food Company (Clarks Speciality Foods) – Cullen skink soup
