Lowland food and drink producers showcased to 100 buyers at Dumfries event

More than 50 incredible food and drink producers from across the Lowlands came together in Dumfries yesterday for Showcasing the Larder of the Lowlands; a meet the supplier showcase event encompassing the Scottish Borders, Dumfries & Galloway, Lanarkshire, Ayrshire, Arran, and East Lothian. Producers were all on show and seeking deals with over 100 quality local, regional, and national buyers from Scotland as well as the North of England who tasted and experienced the exceptional ingredients in the room.

The event, held at Easterbrook Hall in Dumfries, included cookery demonstrations from some of the region’s top chefs including Iain Gourlay of Cringletie House Hotel, and David Jamieson, East Lothian Food Tourism Ambassador and Executive Head Chef of Archerfield Estate.

Designed to build relationships with buyers, introduce them to new products and secure future business, the event was delivered by Regional Food Groups (RFGs) and Regional Food Tourism Ambassador of the South, supported by Scotland Food & Drink (SF&D). The Sourcing Scotland Regional programme is new to 2023, bringing together suppliers with buyers from retail, wholesale, and foodservice to help grow the sales of Scottish products.

Fiona Richmond, Head of Regional Food at Scotland Food & Drink, said: “Opportunities such as Showcasing the Larder of the Lowlands give producers the chance to champion their produce and expand into new markets. Seeing the range of food and drink businesses at this event, and the buzz in the room, shows just how much we have to offer across the regions of Scotland.”

The event was a tremendous success, building relationships between suppliers and buyers, and ultimately developing new commercial partnerships.

Hayley Ross, Sales Manager, Blackthorn Salt, a Scotland Food & Drink member said: “Larder of the Lowlands was a very well organised event. It was great to meet current customers, new contacts and discuss collaborations with other likeminded producers. Attending regional events like this really help to build personal connections and telling our story.”