Scottish Secretary hopes showcase event will give ‘big boost’ to firms

An event showcasing Scottish food and drink could provide a “big boost” to firms, a Cabinet minister has said.

Scottish Secretary Ian Murray is to host an event on Tuesday evening which aims to showcase produce from some 30 leading producers, including “some of Scotland’s finest food and drink” firms.

It comes in the wake of US President’s Donald Trump’s inauguration, with many fearing the return of tariffs on exports from the UK to America now the billionaire tycoon is back in the White House.

However, Mr Murray said that with an “influential international audience” to attend the Taste of Scotland event in Whitehall he hoped it would boost overseas exports for the firms involved.

The event, which is taking place in the run-up to Burns Night, is part of the “Brand Scotland” approach adopted by the Scotland Office.

Mr Murray explained: “Brand Scotland is about selling the very best of Scotland to the world and encouraging inward investment in Scotland. It’s about encouraging growth and creating opportunity and jobs at home.

“My Taste of Scotland event will bring together some of Scotland’s finest food and drink producers, and put them in front of an influential international audience.

“It is a great opportunity for Scottish companies and I hope it will lead to a big boost in their international recognition and overseas exports.”

With overseas exports from Scotland worth more than £31 billion a year, companies whose products will be showcased at Tuesday’s event include both biscuit manufacturer Tunnocks and AG Barr, who produce Irn-Bru.

There will be a range of traditional produce such as Harris Tweed, Stornoway black pudding and seafood on show as well as products from new spirits brands and luxury toiletries.