Scotland’s premier awards for the food & drink industry is back for 2019 and is looking to celebrate the leading lights within the sector.
Now in its 20th year, the Scotland Food & Drink Excellence Awards will take place in Edinburgh on Thursday 23 May 2019. Entries for the new structure of 20 categories are now open, and those looking to enter have until Friday 1st March 2019 to do so.
The Excellence Awards not only recognise the highest quality produce Scotland has to offer, but also commends the people, companies and suppliers that contribute to one of the country’s most important and valuable industries.
For 2019, the focus of the Excellence Awards is on the standout products driving value and consumer choice in the market, and are open to all Scottish food and drink companies whose products are wholly or mainly produced, processed and packaged in Scotland.
James Withers, Chief Executive of the industry body and event organiser Scotland Food & Drink, said, “Over the last 20 years, the Scotland Food & Drink Excellence Awards have recognised the achievements of those at the very forefront of our sector.
“These awards are not won at the gala dinner but are instead won by the dedication and hard work of those in the development kitchen, the boardroom, the distillery and the restaurant – from brewery to bakery, farm to factory.
“Scottish food and drink are internationally acclaimed, and being recognised as an industry leader within Scotland has proven to be a highly valuable accolade for our winners, who often enjoy the benefits of increased brand exposure and access to new commercial sales opportunities.”
Kirsty George, General Manager of Luss Smokehouse, and winner of the Young Talent Award at last year’s event, said, “Winning the Excellence Award last year has opened up opportunities on a number of levels for Luss Smokehouse and has really helped raise our brand profile.
'Boosted by the awards, we have been invited to lots of networking dinners, spoken at exciting events, been approached by buyers and we also receive lots of applications to work at the Smokehouse.
'The written entries to the awards are easy for those passionate about their businesses and the night itself gets better every year - it’s almost an annual chance to catch up with everyone who are doing brilliant things to help further our industry.”
A spokeswoman from ASDA, headline sponsor, added, “We’re delighted to be supporting the Scotland Food & Drink Excellence Awards again in 2019. We recognise the importance of sourcing Scottish produce and supporting the growth of the food and drink sector in Scotland.”