Funding for local food network

A regional food group that aims to grow a thriving food and drink network in Perth and Kinross has secured funding to champion local produce.

Great Perthshire is receiving the funding from industry leadership body Scotland Food and Drink as part of a national £250,000 fund, supported by the Scottish Government.

Over the next 12 months, Great Perthshire aims to increase awareness and champion local suppliers and producers through a strategic marketing campaign to encourage businesses to have a louder collective voice and build collaboration in Perth and Kinross.

The group would like to increase membership across the region, offer an accessible training programme, provide networking and promotional opportunities, and run a successful food and drink event in 2021.

Mark Bush, chair of Great Perthshire, said: “Perthshire is the heart of Scottish food and drink. Our region offers the finest examples of grown, reared, made and brewed produce alongside worldclass dining and hospitality providers.

“It is so important, now more than ever, to support our incredibly diverse and hardworking producers to ensure that our unique local character continues.

“Buying, consuming and using local produce enables us to feel a part of our community and place, keeps the planet happy and supports economic growth and employment.

“The funding from Scotland Food and Drink will help us drive our food story as part of the wider building demand for sustainable food tourism.”

Fiona Richmond, head of regional food at Scotland Food and Drink, said: “Regional food groups like

Great Perthshire have a pivotal role to play in the successful growth and development of our country’s food, drink and food tourism sectors, especially in the recovery from COVID-19.

“With a combination of both long-established groups, those which are more recently formed, and some which are brand new, Scotland’s diverse mix of regional food groups all have energy, ambition and a commitment to championing their areas.

“With this new funding, our aim is to build a strong network of groups and give them the recognition and backing they deserve.”