It goes without saying that Scotland is famous and lauded for its whisky, haggis and seafood exports, products that it goes to great lengths to protect and preserve. Over the past few decades Scotch Whisky, Scotch Lamb, Stornoway Black Pudding and Orkney Cheddar have all been given protected status, with Dundee cake on its way to joining this list.
Picture: Scotland Food and Drink
It should be of no surprise then that a nation of such acclaimed foodies have come together to celebrate their renowned exports and produce with a 12 month marketing campaign.
Led by Visit Scotland, the year-long campaign “The Year of Food & Drink” which began at the start of the year, has so far seen revellers gather at food and drink events which have taken place up and down the country. According to Visit Scotland, their main objective of the campaign is to increase revenue and contribution to the value of Scotland’s food and drink sector by organising events and by furthermore promoting local produce across the tourism industry and event attendees.
By doing so, the strong promotional campaign aims to enhance Scotland’s global reputation and celebrate the nation’s love of their outstanding produce. And it has been a success so far! As well as boosting tourism, this year has seen fellow Scots embrace their local and regional delicacies in ways they have never done.
In support of the campaign, every month sees a different food and drink theme take place to coincide with seasonality.
21 events are available to attend throughout the year, each of which guiding foodies with helpful hints and tips. Events such as last month’s Whisky Month saw visitors and locals gather at Mhor Whisky Festival and Whisky Stramash to sample the national drink and to discuss all things whisky.
Picture: Scotland Food and Drink
But it is not just Scotch Whisky on everyone’s agenda, Scotland offers a diverse range of quality produce and the thriving food and drinks business contributes a great deal to the country’s economy and is certainly a key cultural feature.
Now in June, the theme “The Future of Food” is in full swing for the month highlighting youth development with a focus on enhancing innovation, personal development and skills. Sophie Fraser, Communications and Marketing Manager at Scotland Food & Drink, says: “This month, to coincide with The Future of Food theme, we will be hosting the Royal Highland Show 18th-21st June 2015 at the Royal Highland Centre. This event will see a number of various product launches taking place as well as career advice and opportunities for the youth in attendance.”
The event has been cited as an “absolute must” all families, farmers and even food enthusiasts to get involved in. The extravaganza takes place over four days with a line-up of local musicians performing live. There will also be the chance to sample some of Scotland’s finest foods as well as a full parade of over 5000 animals on display. Note that children under 16 go free and there is a Discovery Centre available to attend for young minds to be inspired with a range of activities.
The Royal Highland Centre is situated in Ingliston, Newbridge, Midlothian, EH28 8NB.
Visit Scotland have worked closely and on behalf of the Scottish Government after securing funding of over £400,000 from the likes of EventScotland and The Community Food Fund to promote the 21 events throughout 2015. For further information and other events throughout the year, please refer to Visit Scotland’s website: www.visitscotland.com/
