New venison micro-processor unit now up and running at Benderloch, Appin

25 August saw the launch of a new venison chill and micro-processor unit at Forest Lodge, Benderloch, Appin.  The new facility will process mainly red and roe deer from Lochnell and other landholdings in the area for sale locally and to feed into the supply chain for sale further afield across Scotand and the UK.

The project is the brainchild and hard work of the Sloss Family of Forest Field and Glen (Stephen, Amanda, Daniel, Matthew and Briana) who recognised that their area, with a growing demand to control deer numbers, not least due to plans for woodland recovery and the Atlantic Rainforest, could benefit from improved facilities to process venison and supply to local markets.

The project was supported by a grant from the Covid Recovery Fund via the Scotland Food and Drink Partnership, and by Business Gateway and HIE.

The well-attended opening with around 40 guests from across local and national food industry, agencies and local authority in the run-up to Scottish Venison Day on 4 September was blessed with glorious weather.  Presentations about the venison sector, background to the project and a finger lunch took place at Lochnell Castle courtesy of the Dundonald family.

Amanda Sloss said:

“This was a milestone for us.  We had thought about an initiative like this for some time and then, of all things, Covid gave us the opportunity to really put together how it might work, what sort of throughput we might generate and how to engage with the local market.  Everyone has been extremely supportive, and we are now up and running, and looking to further development so that soon we will be able to take carcasses from other estates and stalkers outside our own business.  We are also looking to add additional space that can be used for receptions, demonstrations and school visits.  We have worked with Oban High School this year to educate youngsters about where venison comes from and why it is such a fantastic product, and we are keen to expand that type of work in the education sector also.”

Dick Playfair, Secretary of trade body Scottish Venison, said:

“This is a brilliant initiative on so many levels.  Stephen and Amanda have done a great job in making this happen and have some great ideas for the future.  We are pleased to have been involved with colleagues from Scotland Food and Drink, SAOS and others to support Forest Field and Glen in this venture and wish them every success in the future.”