The Scotland Food & Drink Partnership's export programme, which pairs exporters with specialists in key markets and Scottish-based trade specialists, is celebrating its 10th anniversary, having supported over £1.7 billion in export growth since 2018 alone.

Launched by Scotland Food & Drink in partnership with the Scottish Government and Scottish Enterprise, the programme strategically places export specialists in key markets around the world. From Orlando to Osaka, these experts have played a pivotal role in establishing Scottish produce as a global favourite while bolstering Scottish exports.

The unique programme is built on a four-way collaboration between exporting companies, Scotland-based trade specialists, in-market specialists, and industry partners AHDB, Opportunity North East (ONE), Salmon Scotland, Scottish Enterprise's international arm Scottish Development International, Seafood Scotland and Quality Meat Scotland (QMS).

Together, this network works as a global team to provide hands-on support, foster new opportunities, and elevate the profile of Scotland's premium food and drink products.

Since its inception in 2014, the programme has been a cornerstone of Scotland's Export Plan, contributing to a 46% rise in the value of food and drink exports—from £4.9bn to £7.2bn in 2023.

With 12 specialists based in key countries, the programme continues to connect local producers to vital international markets like the United States, France, and China, driving export growth, diversifying markets, and delivering revenue opportunities for Scottish businesses.

The programme's success is evident in several key achievements:

• Market access and expansion: With the support of in-market specialists and a team of dedicated food and drink trade specialists in Scotland, Scottish suppliers and the programmes partners have gained access to new international customers, overcoming traditional export barriers and adapting to the unique demands of each market. This has opened up traditionally less mature export markets, with Japan and China now being in the top 10 destinations for Scottish food and drink products.
• Increased food export value: In 2023, Scottish food exports rose to £2.0 billion, a £36 million increase over 2022, particularly in key regions like the EU and North America.
• Strategic export growth: Exports to priority markets such as France and the United States have continued to flourish. For example, Scottish food exports to the EU in 2023 were valued at £1.3 billion, up by 2.9% from the previous year, with France as the largest single market at £690 million.

"The In Market Specialists programme is a testament to the strength of public-private collaboration and the commitment to elevating Scotland's food and drink sector on the world stage," said Amanda Brown, Programme Director at Scotland Food & Drink.

"Thanks to the expertise and on-the-ground presence of our programmes specialists, we've not only created a bridge for Scottish businesses to enter new markets but have also positioned Scotland as a leader in premium food and drink. We've had a brilliant 10 years and look forward to many more ahead as we continue to showcase the best of Scottish produce."

The Scottish Government's commitment to the export programme, reflected in its ongoing funding, highlights the critical role this partnership plays in driving Scotland's economic growth. What began as an ambitious initiative ten years ago, with all partners recognising the potential rewards of expanding Scotland's food and drink industry internationally, today stands as a cornerstone of Scotland's export success.

Of the programme, Mairi Gougeon, Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Land Reform, and Islands, commented: "The growth in sales of Scottish food and drink exports over the last 10 years has been phenomenal. There is no doubt this remarkable success has been helped by the unique partnership approach we have adopted here with SDI, Scotland Food & Drink, Industry Partners and Scottish Government all working collaboratively."

Playing a key role in ensuring that Scotland's food and drink sector is represented in some of the world's most promising markets Reuben Aitken, Managing Director of International Operations at Scottish Enterprise, added: "By taking the best of our Scottish larder to the world, our exporters drive growth here at home. I'm delighted that the in-market expertise of our team has made the difference for hundreds of companies by connecting them with buyers, providing market insights and unlocking their export potential. Food and drink is a vital part of our Scottish economy contributing £15 billion and employing thousands of people. Scottish Enterprise backs ambitious businesses to go global to create a growing, sustainable economy."

Reflecting on the past decade of growth, Scotland's In-Market Specialists are well-positioned for a promising future, aiming to continue their positive impact on Scotland's food and drink sector.

With Scotland's distinctive products—Scottish salmon, beef, premium spirits and sustainably sourced seafood—well-suited to global tastes, the partnership is set to unlock new opportunities and open doors for Scottish businesses in international markets for years to come.

To find out more about the programme and the support available for food and drink businesses looking to develop their exports, please visit: https://www.scottish-enterprise.com/support-for-businesses/exports-and-international-markets