Search is on for Scotland’s young food and drink stars as industry award returns

• NFU Mutual and Scotland Food & Drink’s ‘Inspirational Young Person Award’ now open
• Award shines a light on talented youngsters within the industry
• Nominations close on Friday 11 July

Scotland’s budding food and drink stars are being encouraged to enter NFU Mutual’s ‘Inspirational Young Person Award’ – with nominations now open. 

The award, launched by the commercial insurer in partnership with industry leadership body Scotland Food & Drink, is now entering its seventh year and aims to uncover and reward talented 16 to 26-year-olds who own, work or study in the food and drink industry. 

Entries and nominations are now open for the award, which not only highlights the innovation that young people bring to Scotland’s food and drink businesses, but also the important contribution they make to the sector. First, second and third-place winners will be awarded cash prizes of £500, £300 and £200 respectively, and will be announced in September during Scotland Food & Drink Month. 

Kirsty Simpson, Campaigns and Partnerships Consultant at NFU Mutual, said: “The importance of young people to Scotland’s food and drink sector cannot be overstated. The entries and winners over the past six years illustrates just how wide a contribution they make and how valuable they are to business success. 

“As with many industries in the current climate, the food and drink sector has faced some very challenging times, and this year’s judging will consider how young people have responded to that. We love shining a light on the wealth of talent we have here in Scotland, and the Inspirational Young Person Award is the perfect opportunity to do that.”

Linda Chirnside, Business Development Manager at Scotland Food & Drink, said: "I’m thrilled to join the judging panel for the first time and eager to discover the diverse culinary and business talents emerging from the next generation of our industry.

Scotland has long held a proud global reputation for excellence in food, drink, and hospitality. It’s vital that we invest in the future of our sector, and initiatives like this play a crucial role in recognising and inspiring the young individuals who are shaping the future of Scottish food and drink."

Last year, Matt Farmer from Newton Mearns in Glasgow claimed top spot following his success at food and drink manufacturer Brakes Scotland.

The 23-year-old took on 39 Scottish suppliers and helped oversee large sales growth to continue the upward trajectory of Brakes Scotland through identifying new products, social media, website editing, brochure management and promotions. He also played a key role in the set-up and execution of the Brakes Scotland Expo.

“This serves as a testament to the dedication and passion I bring to my work and is a fantastic way to celebrate the end of my first year with Brakes and Scotland Food & Drink, said Matt. “I am truly grateful for the recognition and will continue to strive for excellence in my future career in this fantastic industry.”

How to enter the 2025 awards 

The NFU Mutual and Scotland Food & Drink Inspirational Young Person Award 2025 is open for entries from today (April 29 until July 11). Submit your entry or make a nomination HERE. Any individual between the ages of 16 and 26 who owns, works, or studies within a food and drink-related business, organisation or institution can be nominated or enter on their own behalf. The winner will receive £500, with the second and third-place finalists receiving £300 and £200 respective. Winners will be announced in September 2025.