Working in collaboration with Scotland Food & Drink, Waitrose will host a Meet the Buyer, where pre-selected Scottish producers will have the opportunity to pitch to a panel of key decision makers from across the business.
This exciting opportunity is open to qualifying Scottish food and drink businesses with ambition to supply Waitrose at both regional and national level.
Date: Tuesday, 12 May 2026
Location: Scotland House London
Waitrose & Partners is a leading premium supermarket chain in the UK, known for its strong focus on quality food, ethical sourcing, and exceptional customer service. Founded in 1904, it operates as part of the employee owned John Lewis Partnership, one of the UK’s most recognisable retail groups.
With 345 stores across the UK, Waitrose has recently accelerated expansion that includes opening 100 new convenience stores.
Today, Waitrose is recognised as a trusted partner for premium, ethically produced food and drink, serving discerning shoppers seeking quality, provenance, and a differentiated retail experience.
The Opportunity
The business is seeking the opportunity to explore new Scottish suppliers to access opportunities within their estate.
Working in collaboration with Scotland Food & Drink, Waitrose will host a Meet the Buyer specifically for the following categories; Bakery, Dairy, and Eggs.
Pre-selected Scottish producers will have the opportunity to pitch to a panel of key decision makers from across the business. This exciting opportunity is open to qualifying Scottish food and drink businesses with ambition to supply Waitrose at both regional and national level.
Supply Criteria
Waitrose is specifically interested in:
Bakery: Bread, rolls, pastries, cakes, small cakes/cupcakes, biscuits, pies (savoury/sweet), and free-from
Dairy: Milk, cream, yogurts, free-from, cheese, ice-cream, and oat milk
Eggs: Shell eggs, liquid egg products, and ready to eat egg products
All suppliers must be SALSA accredited as a minimum for regional opportunities, but BRCGS will be required for any national opportunity.
Suppliers must have capacity to deliver to all Waitrose Scottish branches or Leyland Distribution Centre
How to Register
To register your interest, please complete the application form here.
Applications close at 5pm on Tuesday, 7 April 2026
Shortlisted applicants will be notified at least 21 days in advance of the event. Further information to follow.
If successful, the Meet the Buyer presentations will take place at Scotland House London, EC4Y 0DS. Full details will be confirmed in due course.
Questions should be emailed to: meetthebuyer@foodanddrink.scot
Cost
Scotland Food & Drink Member: FREE (Applicable Tiers)*
Non-member: £150*
*Fee payable upon invitation to pitch
To register your interest, please complete the application form here.
Applications close at 5pm on Tuesday, 7 April 2026