Driving growth for our food and drink industry is what we do
We forge the connections that help our members and industry thrive. We match buyers with producers, ideas with innovators, and products with markets.
This network of expertise, knowledge, and passion is our beating heart. It knits together ideas and insights from market experts, research specialists and business development managers from different markets, cultures and countries to help guide and grow Scotland’s food and drink industry.
New business startups
+86%
in 7 years
Currently
453
Members
Food productivity
+43%
Since 2007
Seizing new opportunities
Searching for a new route to markets? Needing to get in touch with buyers? Unsure about sales opportunities? That’s what our market development team help you with. In challenging times, finding that competitive edge is more vital than ever.
Our unwavering focus is on helping Scottish businesses grow by attracting and developing new commercial opportunities in Scotland, the UK, and internationally. By working together to develop business capability and increase profitability, we will benefit local communities and Scotland as a whole.
Grow your business
By working together to develop business capability and increase profitability, we will benefit local communities and Scotland as a whole.
Grow regionally
There’s great appeal for home-grown produce among consumers here in Scotland, which means there’s untapped potential for your business in every postcode. We can help you forge new connections, boost local produce in specific regions and explore news ways to put your business firmly on the map.
Grow UK wide
The UK market represents a significant opportunity for Scottish food and drink businesses yet to venture south of the border and across the Irish Sea, where currency, language and logistics all work in your favour. To make the most of almost 70 million potential customers, we help businesses develop the necessary skills, accreditation and knowledge. Let's give your produce the exposure it deserves.
Grow your exports
Whether you’re actively thinking about exporting for the first time, have ambitions to launch new products in existing overseas markets, or expand into new ones, we can provide the contacts, insights and on-the-ground knowledge to help make it happen. Exporting plays a crucial role in growing our food and drink sector. And we have a strategy to expedite your plans, no matter what stage you are at on your journey.
Our affiliate members
Over 100 experts ready to help
We have a growing cohort of Affiliate Members who are on hand to help your food and drink business operate effectively by providing a range of professional services as well as practical supply chain support.
Building your skilled workforce
How to keep our talent pipeline flowing
How do we tackle the issue of getting the right people into the industry, in the right numbers and locations, and with the right skills, to boost productivity and drive growth?
Information about the UK GI Scheme
Want to know more about the UK's GI Protection scheme?
The UK’s Geographical Indication (GI) scheme is designed to protect and promote the unique characteristics and heritage of food and drink products.
Featured Event
Compass Scotland Meet the Buyer Sustainability Day
Compass Group UK&I are market leading providers of contract food services, operating in sectors such as Business & Industry, Healthcare & Senior Living, Education, Sport & Leisure, and Defence & Offshore under brands such as Eurest, Restaurant Associates, Medirest, Chartwells, Levy and ESS.
Industry news and views
News, views and updates from Scotland Food & Drink and from across the food and drink industry.
Stirling is turning up the heat this March with a dynamic line up of events designed to inspire, connect and showcase the region’s food, drink and tourism industry.
One of Scotland’s most acclaimed chefs is opening the doors to his first independent fish restaurant on Edinburgh’s waterfront at the Shore in Leith this week (Wednesday 12 February).
Farmers and crofters will benefit from £20 million additional capital support this year and £26 million next year, First Minister John Swinney has confirmed.
Need help or advice?
We can help you find the information or support you need to help your business grow.