Scottish companies will now be promoted at overseas trade events under the brand Scotland Food & Drink.
Following the demise of the Food From Britain brand, which was previously used to aid international promotion, Scottish ministers are stepping in to offer increased support and funding.
The move will enhance the international promotion of the sector, worth £7.5 billion annually to the Scottish economy, offering businesses a higher profile and the opportunity to tap into Scotland’s world-class reputation for food.
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 nation of high quality food and drink.
It is estimated the promotional activity will deliver £60 million in sales, giving a huge boost to Scotland’s food and drink supply chain which employs around 350,000 people.
The sector is perhaps surprisingly buoyant at the moments as exports increased by seven per cent between the second and third quarter of 2008, output for food and drink manufacturing increased by 3.1 per cent over the year to the third quarter of 2008.
Rural Affairs secretary Richard Lochhead, , said: “Investing in our food and drink sector and helping it reach into new markets abroad will help strengthen businesses and safeguard jobs.
“Scottish produce already enjoys an enviable reputation abroad and I want to help as many companies as possible tap into that rich seam.
“This move demonstrates our commitment to helping our food and drink industry through these current tough times. It is particularly fitting to be making this announcement during the year of Homecoming, which in part revolves around the promotion of Scotland as a land of food and drink.”
While output for food and drink manufacturing fell by 0.3 per cent between the second and third quarter of 2008, it out-performed the whole manufacturing sector over the same period.
Allan Burns, chairman of Scotland Food & Drink, said: “The food and drink industry is well positioned to capitalise on lucrative, international opportunities. Scotland Food & Drink and the Scottish Government are working in partnership to ensure the economic interests of the industry are at the forefront of future plans.
“It is our mutual goal to ensure the industry is equipped to identify prospects in emerging markets and opportunities arising as a result of fluctuating currencies. With this in mind, our first international conference on 11 February will demonstrate our unwavering commitment to offer businesses the tools and support to benefit from valuable trading opportunities.”
The Scottish food and drink manufacturing is currently outperforming the industry in the UK as whole.
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