Sales of stands at Scotland’s only fine food and drink Show are soaring and almost back at pre pandemic levels. Taking place at the SEC, Glasgow from 21-23 Jan 2024, the show promises to showcase the best food and drinks Scotland has to offer. With over 80% of the Show booked, it is the principal buying arena for farm shops, delis, restaurants, tourist outlets, cafes and hotels north of the border.
The success of independent outlets in Scotland is in part largely to the big influx of tourists this summer, mainly from North America, India and the Far East and Scotland is a varied nation in terms of its produce, reflected by the regional stands at the Show. Coupled with the strong reputation Scottish produce commands has helped fuel the interest for the Show.
Orkney will return with its large cluster of local producers, as well as Food from Argyll and East Lothian Food & Drink, and new exhibitors to look out for are drinks producers such as Arrochar Alps Gin, Highland Boundary Spirits, Highland Moon, Select Drams and The Inventor’s Gin Company. These will complement show favourites such as Cairn O’Mhor Wines, Angels Dare Cocktails, Dark Sky Spirits, Gin Bothy, Persie Distillery and Summer House Drinks.
Look out for the Launch!
In the Launch Gallery for new, young companies the Show is welcoming Cruice, MYXD Cocktails and Pochle (Inchcolm Distilling) to mention a few. This is the area where new creativity is celebrated, brand new products will be sourced for the first time and new young companies are given a leg up to get established in the market.
Callum Nimmo, Scottish Buyer for Tesco said: “In January I was blown away by the variety of suppliers that were participating. I found it particularly interesting speaking to owners and brand ambassadors to learn about their company and products straight from the source and to hear their ambitions for the future. Everybody I spoke to was super helpful and the passion for their brands was evident – I would highly recommend the event to any buyer in the food or drink industry as there is something to inspire everyone.”
Business skills unravelled
To help develop your retail business the Talking Shop has a busy timetable of talks, panel discussions and masterclasses.
Topics to be covered will include digital masterclasses; AI and how to harness for retail; Scottish Tourism Alliance Spotlight Sessions on how to maximise the tourist trade; sustainability, using trends to grow your business in food and drink; and pop up shops.
Nessie’s Den will return to entertain with emerging suppliers showcasing their products to respected retailers, and The Best Product Awards from the Show will also be judged by leading food and drink buyers and the winners will be displayed in the heart of the Show.
The Show is run in conjunction with Scotland’s Trade Fair, where about 500 home, giftware, jewellery, textiles, stationery and craft suppliers will showcase their products to retailers around the globe. Show Director Mark Saunders said: “It is clear that trade shows play a key part in the buying programme for food shops, hospitality and retail outlets. They want to meet the suppliers face to face, look, feel and taste the products and ensure they are sourcing the best stock for their shops. This Show offers this in a creative and welcoming environment and so attracts a wide range of suppliers. Our Show in January promises to offer innovative, delicious products and a host of added extras to interest buyers. Make sure the date is firmly in your diary!”
The Speciality Food & Drink Show has also undergone a name change and refresh of the brand. With new logos and artwork, the new branding reflects a more contemporary feel, reflecting the Scottish heritage, with some witty undertones. It also now highlights the importance of fine drinks for the Scottish market.
Registration opens in November: https://www.scotlandstradefairs.com/ Speciality Food & Drink Show– 21st-23rd Jan 2024, SEC, Glasgow Run in conjunction with Scotland’s Trade Fairs.
