• Food and Drink businesses from across Scotland have been announced in the shortlist for the 23^rd Scotland Food & Drink Excellence Awards
• 52 products from 46 producers across Scotland have made this years' shortlist

Food and drink businesses from across Scotland have been announced in the shortlist for the 23^rd Scotland Food & Drink Excellence Awards, highlighting exceptional food and drink businesses from across the country.

For over two decades, these prestigious awards have brought together Scotland's top producers with key industry decision-makers and influencers to celebrate the continued success of Scotland as a world-class food and drink destination.

With 14 tasted awards and 7 business categories, there's something for everyone and this is reflected in the shortlist. In total, 179 entries were submitted across the 14 product categories, with 52 outstanding products from 46 suppliers being named as finalists.

The judging panel, which included buyers from some of the UK's largest retailers such as Asda, Sainsbury, Co-op and Scotmid Co-op, alongside influential figures from the food and drink industry, rigorously tasted and scored each product to determine the shortlist.

The shortlisted products showcase the rich heritage and innovative spirit of Scottish food and drink, featuring everything from Fisher & Donaldson's Rolled Oat Bannocks to traditional Scottish Haggis from Hugh Black & Sons, and Pink Elderflower Cordial by Glenkindie Pantry.

Additionally, 24 individuals, teams, and employers have been shortlisted across the seven business categories, recognised for their outstanding contributions to elevating Scotland's reputation as a land of food and drink.

Iain Baxter, Chief Executive of Scotland Food & Drink, expressed his admiration for the finalists, stating, "The Scotland Food & Drink Excellence Awards celebrate Scotland's outstanding products and the remarkable businesses behind them. Whether a brand-new start-up or an established industry leader, these awards are a testament to the hard work and passion that drives our sector forward. Congratulations to everyone who has been shortlisted—we look forward to sharing a night of celebration and some of Scotland's finest produce."

Polly Jones, Asda's Head of Corporate Affairs, Scotland added, "Having sponsored these awards for more than 10 years, we remain continually impressed by the quality of the produce on offer, and greatly enjoy our role on the judging panel. 

"We know that Scottish consumers are increasingly interested in locally-made food and drink products, and supporting local producers remains a key focus for us. We've been excited by the brands we've encountered this year and can't wait to see them celebrated on the day."

Taking place on the 9^th of October, the Excellence Awards are part of the wider Excellence Summit—a powerhouse event that merges Scotland Food & Drink's annual industry conference with the coveted awards ceremony. It promises to be a day and night of networking, insight, and celebration of all things Scottish.

The Excellence Awards not only honour past achievements but also look to the future, supporting the next wave of innovation and creativity in Scotland's food and drink industry. From independent butchers to craft distillers and sustainable dairy producers, this year's finalists embody the qualities that make Scotland a leader in the global food and drink market.

For a complete list of the shortlisted finalists, click here.

To learn more about the Excellence Awards or to purchase tickets for the event, please visit: https://excellenceawards.foodanddrink.scot.