Young Talent of the Year
The future of the food and drink industry depends on inspiring the next generation, and the Young Talent the Year aims to recognise the achievements of young people in the sector, while giving companies an opportunity to demonstrate the investment they make in their workforce.
The award is presented to entrants between the ages of 16 and 30 who demonstrate the greatest skill in their chosen sector of the food and drink industry, and can represent the industry positively. Read the case studies below to learn more about previous winners – and how winning Young Talent of the Year has impacted their career so far.
2025 Winner: Amy Gillies
Named as the Young Talent of the Year winner for 2025, Amy’s journey from the production line to senior team leader at Lazy Day Foods is a great example of how to forge a fast and successful career path in the industry.
The 24-year-old is now using her platform to inspire the next generation to see the diverse opportunities the sector offers.
2024 Winner: Eilidh Wynd
Eilidh Wynd, commercial executive at Simon Howie Foods, was named Scotland Food & Drink Young Talent winner in 2024.
The self-described “happy-go-lucky haggis seller” has cemented her place as an influential young leader, both in her day job and across the wider industry.
She’s constantly championing Scottish food and drink as a vibrant place to work and openly shares her professional journey with honesty through her popular “Diary of a CE-UhOh” posts on LinkedIn.
Featured Event
The Excellence Awards 2026
Celebrating the best of Scotland’s exceptional food and drink scene, The Excellence Awards shine a light on the incredible businesses that call this unique country their home.
