Scotland to boost food and drink industry by £1bn

Leading figures across the Scottish food and drink industry have formed a national board to help boost food tourism in Scotland by £1bn. Leaders from organisations including Scotland Food & Drink and Scottish Tourism Alliance have joined with the Scottish government to develop and implement the first Food Tourism Action Plan to increase visitor spend on food and drink.

Chaired by Marc Crothall of the Scottish Tourism Alliance (STA), the board - made up of leading figures from worlds such as hospitality, tourism, agritourism, wholesale and catering - will oversee the development and implementation of the plan, with a clear responsibility for ensuring that the actions are delivered, and the ambition realised.

Marc said, “The formation of such a strong, diverse board with representation across all of Scotland’s food and tourism sectors marks a hugely important step forward in realising the bold ambition set out in the food tourism action plan.  Passion for people, produce and place is round our table in abundance, with strong reach into destinations, individual sectors, education, production and supply. I look forward to working with the board in the coming months and years to deliver our actions and grow Scotland into a number one global destination for food and drink.”

Rural economy secretary, Fergus Ewing, added, “Products like Scotch whisky, Scotch beef and Scottish salmon are already renowned throughout the world, and our historic cities, rugged islands, and scenic countryside makes us a top destination for tourists. So, it’s about bringing those two sectors together, and ensuring that the potential of our amazing natural larder is used to enhance the visitor experience even further.”

Image of Marc Crothall