Food and drink

Orkney’s farmers, crofters and producers could benefit from a new local abattoir which will help them bring their produce to market, benefit the island’s economy and support high-welfare meat production.

First Minister John Swinney visited Orkney Auction Mart, which has received a £15,000 grant as a lead partner to help build the business case for a new, fit-for-purpose processing plant.

The agreement between South of Scotland Enterprise (SOSE) and Scottish Agricultural Organisation Society (SAOS) will support the industry’s transition towards Net Zero emissions, while aiming to increase its Gross Value Added (GVA) for the region.

A new venison project launching this month will explore ways to help low ground deer managers improve the infrastructure for handling and chilling venison carcasses and increase throughput.

The pilot project will assess additional potential outlets for the venison produced, and interrogate any barriers for these initiatives, as well as possibilities for part-funding of small and micro-scale chillers.

The Scottish Festival of Real Bread, a one-day celebration of community, sustainability, and local food systems, is back for its third year.

The 32nd International Leadership Workshop for Rural Youth will be held on 14 - 27 August 2025 with the theme of "Sharing Skills – Shaping Change”.

Agri-food systems around the globe are undergoing a huge transformation process. To help meet these challenges, the German Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture (BMEL) promotes international cooperation and networking as an important cornerstone of peace policy.

Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) has welcomed local business, The Gin Bothy, as the first commercial enterprise to move into Glen Prosen.

The announcement follows an extensive consultation process that included taking expressions of interest to find suitable uses for the various estate buildings.

This years Scottish Agritourism Conference took place in Perth over the 18 and 19 of November. 

A range of sessions took place over the two conference days including, a wide variety of speakers and panellists all relevant to the Sector. There was a real buzz around the venue as delegates connected and networked with exhibitors, sponsors and each other.