Scotland's Food Pioneer Toasts to the Launch of Excellence Awards 2017
Scotland's official Food Pioneer, Chef Fred Berkmiller, has launched the Scotland Food & Drink Excellence Awards 2017.
Recognised for his dedication to, and skill with, Scottish produce, Fred won the inaugural Food Pioneer award at the event last year. (Get along to his restaurants Lescargot bleu or blanc as they've are fab)
The 21 categories are today (Thursday 12 January) open for entry, including categories for Brewing, Distilling, Own Label and Primary Producer of the Year, new for 2017.
Organised by Scotland Food & Drink and in partnership with The Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland (RHASS), the deadline for award entries is Friday 24 February.
Chief Executive of Scotland Food & Drink, James Withers, said:
"Over the last 10 years we have worked hard as an organisation and with partners to build a national identity for Scottish food and drink. However, it is the skill, dedication and innovation of our producers, that has built Scotland's reputation as a Land of Food and Drink.
"The Excellence Awards allow us to celebrate some of our very best and highlight to the nation and beyond, the strength of Scotland's leading industry. To grow our reputation even further at home and around the world, we must continue to encourage new pioneers within the food and drink industry in this country.
"To further this objective, all awards entrants receive constructive feedback from our panel of expert judges. So, win or lose, our aim is to support the development of all the businesses that enter the awards."
Food and drink businesses can enter online at www.foodanddrink.scot/events/excellence-awards. Entries for the awards close on Friday 24 February. Tickets for the awards ceremony and dinner are now on sale available from Scotland Food & Drink priced at £125 + VAT for Scotland Food & Drink members or £250 + VAT for non-members. Shortlisted businesses are offered tickets at the discounted rate of £95 + VAT. Tickets can be purchased from Scotland Food & Drink here: bit.ly/sfdea2017tickets
