Scottish Rural Awards 2017 finalists announced

From rural start-ups to Scotland's favourite established businesses, 100 rural businesses are announced as finalists in the 2017 Scottish Rural Awards.  

Background

The annual Scottish Rural Awards are the ultimate benchmark of success in Scotland's countryside, highlighting the enterprise, skill and innovation of those who live and work in rural areas.

Now in their third year, the Scottish Rural Awards are partnered by the Scottish Countryside Alliance and the Scottish Field backed by a number of sponsors for 2017 including Aldi, the Bank of Scotland and Subaru.

Jamie Stewart, Director of the Scottish Countryside Alliance, said:

‘'Land-based businesses contribute over £2billion to the Scottish economy. Despite the multiple challenges they face, they are hugely valuable brand ambassadors for Scotland, and many provide vital support to their local communities.

‘’These awards give Scotland a chance to recognise the resilience, innovation and contribution that rurally-based people and businesses make to its success.'’

And Richard Bath, Editor of Scottish Field, commented:

‘'More than ever before, Scotland’s rural communities are displaying a quite remarkable amount of energy, innovation and imagination as they diversify existing businesses and create new and exciting opportunities from scratch.

‘’As a magazine we are constantly writing about the rural entrepreneurs who are bringing wealth and jobs to the countryside, so it’s exciting for us to be able to honour the men and women who are doing so much to make the economy of rural Scotland a true success story.'’

Over 200 nominations for businesses were made since launching at the beginning of August, spanning locations from the Outer Hebrides to the Borders, and Shetland to Fife. This year businesses were able to either self-nominate, or be nominated by someone else - a friend, family member, customer or member of the public before the closing date.

This year The Enchanted Forest, Scottish Canals and Gordons Castle along with many enterprising young companies are among the finalists.

The Competition Process

The shortlist spans 10 categories which celebrate all aspects of rural life:

Agriculture

Artisan Drink

Artisan Food

Business Diversification

Business Start Up

Conservation and the Environment

Education

Rural Employer

Rural Enterprise

Rural Tourism & Hospitality

A winner, runner up and highly commended in each category will be unveiled at the Scottish Rural Awards & Gala Dinner, which will take place on Thursday 16 March 2017 at Dynamic Earth in Edinburgh. Tickets are now on sale should you wish to come along and be part of the event.  

Those who have made special contributions to the Scottish countryside will also be honoured with two separate accolades - the Rural Hero Award and the Lifetime Achievement Award.

There are ten finalists in each of the ten categories which you can view here.

For more information, tickets and photographs please contact Mikaela MacKinnon on 0131 551 7919, email info@scottishruralawards.org or visit the Scottish Rural Awards website.