SCOTLAND’S food and drink industry was worth £13bn last year, highlighting an ahead of schedule growth set out four years ago.
In 2009 a target of achieving a turnover of £12.5bn by 2017 was set within the industry, but figures released by the Scottish Government showed this target was reached a whopping six years ahead of schedule.
The Government figures show the industry reached this figure in early 2011, clocking up a turnover of £13bn by the end of that year.
Rural Affairs secretary, Richard Lochhead said it was a “fantastic success story,” adding it was down to the high quality products available and the dedication of those working in the sector.
He added, “I have always believed our food and drink sector is the best in the world, thanks to our fantastic natural larder, iconic products, strong global brands, excellent provenance credentials and industry innovation.”
But the good work doesn’t stop there, with the success now meaning a shift in the goalposts by Scotland Food & Drink, with a new target of £16.5bn by 2017.
Chief executive of the organisation, James Withers said the industry’s ambition allowed it to build for the future across the UK and abroad, with improved export activity and presence in new markets part of the new goal.
Between 2008 and 2011, Scotland’s ‘drink manufacturing’ sector grew its turnover by £254m, from £4.2bn to £4.5bn, whilst food manufacturing increased its turnover by £899m in the same period.?