The Scotsman’s popular Food and Drink Awards, which will see Scotland’s top food and drink producers – as nominated by you – vie for the top prize across 13 categories, are set to return with a special event in Edinburgh this September.
To find them, we are asking you, our readers, to nominate those businesses and individuals you believe are leading the field when it comes to driving this burgeoning sector forward.
Now in our third year, we have changed the categories to be more reflective of the whole tapestry of Scotland’s food and drink businesses and not just the restaurant and bar scene, as a result, there are new awards aimed at the producers and companies that are making waves within the industry.
One of those exciting new categories, Team of the Year, will recognise a group or team – each and every member of which makes a difference to their business – and the hard work they put in to make their given company a success.
From producers to restaurant staff, we want to know about those collaborative groups that have impressed you in some way. Give us examples of their excellent teamwork and laud their achievements so we can reward them for reaching new heights.
The judges will be looking at the strategies and co-operation shown by those nominated and measuring the accomplishments of those involved.
Returning for 2019 will be one of our most popular categories, the Best Use of Scottish Produce award, which recognises those businesses and entrepreneurs who go out of their way to champion our nation’s incredible natural larder.
Last year, Shetland-based producers Thule Ventus, took home the prize for their innovative air-dried salt cod, impressing the judging panel with their first-rate understanding of provenance combined with an excellent knowledge of traditional techniques.
Scotsman food and drink editor Sean Murphy said: “Locally sourced ingredients can make a big difference in the kitchen and we are proud to support and celebrate the best sourcing, use and promotion of Scottish local produce with our awards. With past winners including Ardross Farm Shop and Thule Ventus, we want to recognise those people and businesses that are putting their best behind Brand Scotland.”
The final ceremony will take place on Wednesday 25 September, at Brewhemia on Edinburgh’s Market Street and, in a departure from the usual sit-down meal, the awards will have a more relaxed, communal eating theme, giving finalists, guests and sponsors the opportunity to better connect throughout the night.
With six weeks until the deadline of 13 August, there is still plenty of time to nominate for both of these categories, or indeed, any of the 13, which also include Best New Talent in the Industry, Best Scottish Spirit and Your Hidden Gem.
• To nominate your favourite, visit our dedicated awards website www.scotsmanfoodanddrinkawards.co.uk
