by Sarah Hills FoodBizDaily.com London
November 30 2009 - The Scottish Government has announced what it described as “significant new funding” to support the food and drink industry and the sector’s global standing.
The government said that the support, to be announced this week, will include funding for farmers markets and major funding for Scottish food companies to improve links with local suppliers and farmers.
There will also be an update on its target of raising the value of sector to £10 billion by 2017.
Meanwhile, in the run-up to Christmas the government is encouraging consumers to “think local” when buying food and drink and it said that in the new year there will be a drive to encourage more people to support Scotland's farmers and fishermen.
Paul McLaughlin, Scotland Food & Drink chief executive, said: “The Scottish food and drink industry is worth billions to our economy. It is essential that we support local businesses to sustain our economy and give us a strong base from which to grow.”
Farmers markets are seen as an increasingly sustainable place for shoppers to buy local produce and tomorrow further support for them will be unveiled.
Then at the end of the week the sixth round of Food Processing, Marketing and Co-operation grants will be announced. The government said that this scheme has so far assisted diverse projects to further enhance Scotland's worldwide reputation as a producer of quality food and drink to the tune of £18.5 million, safeguarding and creating over 3,000 jobs.