A substantial package of support to help Scotland’s food and drink industry increase its international profile has been unveiled.

Rural affairs secretary Richard Lochhead announced the measures last week at the Scotland Food & Drink international conference at Hopetoun House, South Queensferry.

The new package includes an enhanced programme of trade delegations for more than 100 Scottish companies, which will deliver an estimated £60 million in overseas sales.

Support has also been put forward for Scottish companies trying to break into international markets, with an increase of £250,000 funding, making total input £1.8m.

A Retailers’ Forum to look at ways of forging better links between food producers and retailers will take place on March 25.

Lochhead told the conference: “This package of support will greatly enhance the international profile of our vital food and drink sector. It offers businesses new and exciting opportunities to tap into Scotland’s world-class reputation for food.

“Investing in this vital sector and helping it reach into new markets abroad will strengthen businesses and safeguard jobs.

“Support will be provided to over 100 companies at more than 12 events over the coming year, helping to consolidate Scotland’s position as a land of food and drink.

“It is estimated that the promotional activity will deliver £60 million in sales, giving a huge boost to our food and drink sector, which employs around 350,000 people.

“Growing international revenue is critical if we are to reach our ambitious target of growing the value of Scotland’s food and drink sector to £10 billion by 2017."

Renowned Scottish chef and TV personality Nick Nairn said: “Scottish food has an international reputation for its quality and taste and is worth billions to the Scottish economy. It’s absolutely vital that government, industry and the public at large do everything they can to support such an important sector.”

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