SCOTLAND’S Trade Fair and Speciality Food Show will kick off on Sunday at the SEC in Glasgow – with SNP Business and Trade Minister Ivan McKee set to give a speech during the event’s three-day run.
The fair will host as many as 400 small businesses – mostly from Scotland – and offer them the chance to promote their products to buyers from across the country.
The events will include a number of talks and panel discussions, including one from Minister for Business, Trade, Tourism and Enterprise Ivan McKee, who will visit the show on Monday to deliver a speech about encouraging businesses during the current economic conditions.
Other topics up for discussion include the upcoming Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) for drinks producers and retailers, with a panel of industry experts offering insight, and ways to maximise visitor experience and tourism – in talks hosted by VisitScotland.
This year toiletries businesses are making a splash, with new companies Oir Soap, The Inkbalm, The Black Cat Soap House, West Byre Apothecary and Estia Soaps all setting up at the fair.
And for those looking at expanding their clothes and accessories horizons, Agate & Ayre, Bill Baber Knitwear, Eribe Knitwear, Green Grove Weavers, Bluebell Gray and Sheila Fleet Jewellery will also be in attendance.
As part of the Speciality Food Show, there will be no shortage of edible options available either.
Orkney and Food from Argyll are hosting large regional stands, showcasing the best foods from both regions, such as Island Smokery, Orkney Ice Cream and Stockan’s Oatcakes, as well as Isle of Mull Cheese, Tiree Tea, Tobermory Fish Company and Deer Island Distillers.
Best Product Awards for food and gifts will also be given out on the fair’s first day on Sunday.
Show director Mark Saunders said: “After a difficult few years, Scotland’s Trade Fair and Speciality Food Show is set to be the place for retailers to source, order, network and learn, to set them up for a good year ahead.
“This show offers many small businesses the opening to market, so is a vital date in the calendar for producers and retailers alike across Scotland.”
