food and drink – The NEN – North Edinburgh News

Bayne’s The Family Bakers marks 70 years with opening of 70th new shop

Scotland’s much-loved bakers unveils newest location at Inveralmond Retail Park, Perth

Bayne’s The Family Bakers proudly celebrates its 70th shop opening this week at Perth’s Inveralmond Retail Park.

This significant milestone coincides with this much-loved Scottish bakery’s 70th anniversary and ongoing expansion, marking seven decades of growth, innovation, and deep-rooted community connections since Bayne’s was founded in 1954.

From a single bakery in Lochore, Fife, Bayne’s has flourished into a beloved Scottish institution, renowned for its quality baking and strong local connections. Today, the company operates 70 shops across Scotland, with plans for continued expansion and further investment in the coming year.

Over the past 70 years, Bayne’s has evolved from a traditional home bakery into a leading player in the bakery food to go market. Driven by changing consumer preferences, the business has embraced convenience focused offerings, premium coffee, and home delivery services, positioning itself at the forefront of Scotland’s modern retail landscape.

Reflecting on the company’s growth, Bayne’s Joint Managing Director, John Bayne said: “A decade ago, we had 490 colleagues supporting 52 shops. Today, we’ve nearly doubled our workforce to 960, ensuring we continue to bring fresh, quality baking to communities across Scotland.

“Looking ahead, we plan to open three to four new shops annually over the next decade while continuing to invest in product innovation and digital transformation to meet evolving customer needs.”

Bayne’s has grown strategically, expanding beyond Fife in 1975 to Perthshire with a shop in Kinross then steadily increasing its presence throughout Scotland. In the late 1990s to early 2000s Bayne’s saw further growth into Perth, Dundee, and Monifieth, followed by the opening of its first retail park ‘food to go’ shop in Stirling in 2006.

Bayne’s entered the Edinburgh market in 2012 and expanded into Glasgow in 2018. In 2021, the company launched its first drive-thru in Hillington. Most recently, in 2023, Bayne’s completed a freezer extension at its bakery, further enhancing production capacity to meet growing demand.

John Bayne added: “At Bayne’s, our customers are at the heart of everything we do.

“Whether it’s through our popular coffee card reward program, which offers a free coffee for every eight purchased, or our ‘Moments of Joy’ initiative, which empowers staff to provide complimentary treats for special occasions, we are committed to delivering exceptional experiences.”

Stanley Bayne, Chairman of Bayne’s, added: “Seventy shops in our 70th year – it’s a milestone that fills me with immense pride.

“My father, John, would be incredibly proud to see how far we’ve come; from opening our first shop in 1954 to opening our 70th shop today. Our success is a tribute to the generations of colleagues and bakers who have kept our ovens warm and our customers smiling.

“This new Perth shop is a symbol of our enduring commitment to Scottish baking traditions and the communities we serve.”

Bayne’s the Family Bakers is committed to product innovation and enhancing its bakery and drinks range to meet evolving consumer tastes. The company is also investing in digital transformation, improving online ordering and home delivery services to meet growing demand for convenience.

To learn more about Bayne’s The Family Bakers please visit: baynes.co.uk.

Hard Rock Cafe Edinburgh celebrates International Women’s Month

Hard Rock Cafe Edinburgh Celebrates ‘International Women’s Month’ With Global Superstar Shakira Featuring FEARLESS Retail Collection, Limited-Time Menu of Her Favorite Dishes and 4 Women-Led Performances

In celebration of Hard Rock International’s annual “International Women’s Month” in March and International Women’s Day on Saturday, March 8, Hard Rock and global superstar & humanitarian, Shakira, announce a year-long partnership that aims to empower women around the world to tell their stories, be their authentic selves and unite through the power of music.

The company, including Hard Rock Cafe Edinburgh, will raise funds through its charitable arm, Heals Foundation®, throughout International Women’s Month.

“I’m excited to partner with Hard Rock, an organization with an incredible history of uplifting women through the power of music, to empower my sisters this International Women’s Day and beyond,” said Shakira.

“Together we can use our voices to break barriers and make the world a more inclusive space where every woman feels confident being themselves.”

Hard Rock and Shakira collaborated on menu items including food, a delicious “Hips Don’t Lie” cocktail and unique clothing designed to celebrate women.

Hard Rock will also host 1,000 women-led performances in March, including 4 performances at Hard Rock Cafe Edinburgh from Bethany Nicholson on 7^th March, Rue Cooper on 14^th March, Jasmin Jet – previous winner of ‘Scottish Young Musicians Best Vocalist’ 2022’- on 21^st March and Megan Toni performing on 28^th March.

Fans can book their table now at https://cafe.hardrock.com/edinburgh/

“From concerts to her Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran album release party and being part of the Unity™ by Hard Rock loyalty program commercial, Hard Rock and Shakira’s shared values of honoring women through music has connected us over the course of her groundbreaking career,” said Elena Alvarez, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Brand Partnerships at Seminole Gaming and Hard Rock International.

“This year, we encourage women to raise their voices, share their stories and lift each other up.”

Shakira Limited Time Menu

Shakira has collaborated with Hard Rock to serve her favorite dishes at Edinburgh and on menus worldwide for a limited time. The menu includes:

Hips Don’t Lie Margarita: A fruity silver tequila-based cocktail with elderflower liqueur, muddled strawberries and cucumbers.

Chicken Fattoush Salad: Grilled chicken breast with fattoush vegetables, mixed greens, flatbread croutons and a unique blend of Caesar dressing and red wine vinaigrette, paying homage to Shakira’s Lebanese heritage.

Colombian Smash Burger: A smash burger with American cheese, shaved lettuce, tomato, Legendary Sauce and potato crisps.

Dulce De Leche Hot Fudge Brownie: A rich chocolate brownie topped with thick and creamy caramel sauce.

Rock Shop® Merch

Hard Rock’s official International Women’s Month t-shirt, hoodie and pin are now available for purchase at our Rock Shop® and online at shop.hardrock.com.

A portion of proceeds from all efforts will benefit Pies Descalzos Foundation—Shakira’s non-profit organization enhancing the education and social development of girls in Colombia’s most vulnerable communities.

In addition, the Hard Rock Heals Foundation is proud to donate $250,000 to Pies Descalzos Foundation in addition to guest contributions to this program.

“We are grateful to Hard Rock for its generous donation, which will support our mission of providing access to education for Colombia’s young girls, giving them a brighter future,” said Patricia Sierra, Executive Director at Pies Descalzos Foundation.

For all Hard Rock’s International Women’s Month activations, visit:

www.hardrock.com/women.

Book your table at Hard Rock Cafe Edinburgh today at:

https://cafe.hardrock.com/edinburgh/

Aldi Scotland Announces CHAS as the Official Charity Partner for its 2025 Supermarket Sweep

Aldi Scotland has proudly announced Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS) as the official charity partner of its long running and hugely popular Supermarket Sweep initiative for 2025.

The much-loved event has named CHAS as the exclusive beneficiary, with funds raised helping to provide vital hospice care and support to children with life-shortening conditions across Scotland.

Launched in 2016, the supermarket challenge, inspired by the legendary game show, offers shoppers the chance to take part in a five-minute trolley dash, allowing them to gather as many Aldi favourites as they can within the timeframe. Once the time is up, the lucky shopper gets to take home the trolley full of goodies, while Aldi matches the cash value of the goods as a donation.

Each year across Scotland CHAS supports over 500 babies, children and young people with life-shortening conditions and their families. In 2025 every penny raised through the initiative will go directly to CHAS, with £10,000 pledged in support.

With ten Sweeps set to take place throughout the year, the partnership will have a real impact on CHAS’ vital services, providing palliative, respite, and end-of-life care at Rachel House in Kinross, Robin House in Balloch, and across all of Scotland through CHAS at Home.

Graham Nicolson, Group Buying Director at Aldi Scotland, said: “CHAS provides an incredible lifeline for families across Scotland, offering specialist care and unwavering support during the most difficult moments imaginable. This is a charity very close to our hearts and we’re honoured to be partnering with them for our 2025 Supermarket Sweep.

“The annual initiative holds a special place in the Aldi calendar, donating over £50,000 to local charities since 2016, while offering loyal customers across Scotland the chance to take part in a truly unique supermarket experience.

“We hope this partnership will not only raise significant funds for the charity but also help to shine a light on the incredible impact CHAS has across Scotland.”

Rami Okasha, CHAS CEO, said: “Aldi Scotland’s Supermarket Sweep is a fantastic initiative that will not only help raise vital funds for our organisation but hopefully highlight the reality faced by families caring for a child with a life-shortening condition.

“At CHAS, we provide unwavering care to children who may die young and their families, at every step on this hardest of journeys. We are dedicated to ensuring that no family in Scotland faces the death of their child alone.

“This partnership will help us continue to deliver expert care – whether in our hospices, in hospitals, or at home – so that families can make the most of every precious moment together.”

Aldi Scotland’s 2025 Supermarket Sweep will kick off at Aldi’s Chesser store in Edinburgh, with applications set to open on 24 March. Further locations and dates will be announced in due course.

For more information about CHAS and how to support its work, visit:

https://www.chas.org.uk/

You can find your nearest Aldi here.

Botanics: Big changes at Gateway Cafe

Big changes are coming to the Gateway Café! While renovations are underway to create a fresh new look, the café counters will be closed from tomorrow until the end of March.

But don’t worry – we’ve got you covered:

– The Gateway Café is still open in a reduced capacity. Enjoy a selection of sandwiches and baked goods from our pop-up in the café, accessible via the decking outside the Gateway

– Your favourite drinks and sweet treats are available at our pop-up downstairs in the John Hope Gateway

– Delicious hot food is just a stone’s throw away at the Terrace Café

We can’t wait to welcome you to our new space – here’s a sneak peek (above)

P.S. Even more exciting dining updates coming your way soon!

Eat Out Edinburgh announces 2025 venue lineup and exclusive supper clubs

Special offers revealed for over 50 city-centre restaurants, cafes and bars taking part in the festival

Eat Out Edinburgh, the highly anticipated city-centre restaurant festival run by Essential Edinburgh, today reveals the full list of incredible dining offers running throughout March.

This year’s event boasts an impressive lineup of over 50 top restaurants, cafes and bars, featuring exclusive deals, curated set menus, and the introduction of a brand-new supper club series as a first for this year’s festival.

Diners can now explore the special offers live online at www.eatoutedinburgh.com, with deals from some of Edinburgh’s best-loved venues from Princes Street and Charlotte Square to St James Quarter – all designed to showcase the city centre’s vibrant hospitality scene.

With a wave of exciting new restaurant openings in the capital, this year’s Eat Out Edinburgh welcomes several first-time participants, bringing fresh flavours and experiences to the festival, including:

Dishoom: Enjoy a special Bombay-inspired menu for £29 per person, including dishes like Tandoori Chaat, Goan Monkfish Curry, and Makhmali Paneer.
Roxy Lanes: Perfect for a midweek catch-up, offering 20% off food Sunday through Thursday – grab a bite and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
The Botanist: Whether you’re in the mood for two courses (£20) or three (£25), The Botanist offers an incredible deal Monday to Thursday throughout March.
Manahatta: Bringing the big city buzz to Edinburgh, the NYC inspired venue is offering two courses for £15 or three for £20, valid Monday – Friday throughout March.
The Court: In the heart of The Caledonian Edinburgh, discover a seasonally-inspired selection of dishes with a delicious three course lunch menu, showcasing the best of local, Scottish produce for just £29.
SUSHISAMBA: The Samba Express menu brings together the bold and vibrant flavours of Japan, Brazil, and Peru for an unforgettable dining journey, offering two courses for just £25 or three courses for £30.
Le Petit Beefbar: Offering Eat Out Edinburgh diners an exclusive 20% off, a set-lunch menu is available Monday to Thursday featuring everything from their famous rock corn to the classic steak frites. Now we’re offering Eat Out Edinburgh guests an exclusive 20% off.

Returning favourites such as Chaophraya, Lady Libertine, Rio Brazilian Steakhouse, Duck & Waffle, and BABA among many others have also unveiled exclusive menus and special offers available to book now, ensuring there’s something for every taste, budget and occasion throughout the month.

This year introduces a new highlight: a series of intimate supper clubs bookending the festival offering food lovers a unique opportunity to enjoy exclusive dining experiences in a social setting, hosted by hot-ticket venues Hawksmoor and Dean Banks at the Pompadour.

Kickstarting the festival on the 6^th of March, Hawksmoor Edinburgh will host a special evening celebrating British seasonal produce, featuring a three-course sharing menu with wine, set within the stunning McLellan Room.

Guests will be welcomed with a Portobello Road Gin cocktail before indulging in a showcase of the Hawksmoor classics served family style – including a selection of their signature prime meats – and walk away with a box of the restaurant’s ‘Tributes’ salted caramel chocolates, as a sweet reminder of the evening. Tickets are available to book now at just £75 per person.

Copyright – Grant Anderson / www.grantanderson.me / @grantandersondotme

Bringing the festival to a spectacular close, Dean Banks at The Pompadour will offer their own supper club with an unforgettable seven-course tasting menu on 27^th March, available at an incredible 50% discount for just £65 per person.

Hosted in the venue’s stunning private room within the Caledonian Edinburgh, Chef Banks himself will walk guests through each course, celebrating Scotland’s best produce of the season.

Tickets are available to book now. Guests are encouraged to book their spot for both events soon through the Eat Out Edinburgh website, as spots are limited to these exclusive evenings.

Following the success of Eat Out Edinburgh 2024, which saw a 9.2% increase in hospitality sales and over 18,700 bookings for city centre venues, this year’s campaign is set to be even bigger. The initiative encourages locals, visitors, and city centre workers to explore and support Edinburgh’s dynamic food and drink scene.

Emily Campbell Johnston, Senior Manager of Marketing & Communications at Essential Edinburgh, said: “With so many exciting new venues opening in the city centre, this year’s Eat Out Edinburgh is set to be our most diverse and engaging yet.

“The addition of supper clubs will bring a whole new level of exclusivity and experience for diners. Whether you’re discovering a new favourite spot or revisiting a beloved classic, March is the perfect time to celebrate Edinburgh’s incredible hospitality scene.”

A full list of participating venues and offers is available at

www.eatoutedinburgh.com,

where diners can browse menus and book experiences.

Edinburgh whisky-coffee business brewing up a storm thanks to Business Gateway support

A local Edinburgh business is brewing up success with its unique coffee blend after accessing support from Business Gateway.

Georgia and Grant Fraser launched Cortino in August last year, blending their passions of coffee and Scottish whisky to create one-of-a-kind barrel aged coffee, delivering distinct and exciting flavours as they aim to change the traditional coffee experience.

Cortino’s coffee beans, which are sourced from Brazilian farms, rest in whisky barrels sourced from across Scotland, infusing them with a rich and smooth depth of flavour. The beans are then roasted locally in Edinburgh, with every batch of coffee offering a distinct profile.

With backgrounds in sustainable product design, Georgia and Grant are determined to ensure Cortino delivers environmentally conscious coffee, using sustainable packaging and partnering with responsible suppliers.

Throughout their start-up journey, local Business Gateway adviser, Lee Briggs, has supported Cortino, providing one-to-one support and advice across business planning, marketing insights and routes to funding. Lee has also introduced Georgia and Grant with local contacts, and signposted events and scaling opportunities.

Having enjoyed a successful launch last year, with Cortino’s coffee proving popular at a host of local markets and trade shows, Georgia and Grant now have their sights set on a year of growth in 2025, aiming to scale up the business and bring their unique brew to a new audience, with a number of exciting whisky collaborations in the works.

This has been made possible thanks to support from Business Gateway, which helped them to successfully apply for grant funding worth £4,000 which will be put towards marketing activities and trade show events as the pair gear up for a bumper year.

Georgia Fraser, co-founder, Cortino, said: “Business Gateway has provided fantastic support that has allowed us to start Cortino on the best possible footing.

“Lee has been an invaluable resource for us. His insight and connections have enabled us to access funding and develop a robust strategy for scaling up this year. He has always been on hand to answer any questions or guide us to where we need to get to.”

Lee Briggs, Business Gateway adviser, said: “Georgia and Grant’s passion to create a unique new product is a brilliant example to anyone looking to start up their own business.

“Their drive and determination to make their product the best it can be and deliver it sustainably by making the most of the local knowledge has seen their efforts rewarded greatly.

“We look forward to supporting the team as they gear up for an exciting year in 2025.”

To find out more about how Business Gateway can help your business, visit:

https://bgateway.com.

To discover more about Cortino’s unique blends, visit:

https://www.drinkcortino.com/.

Edinburgh brewery raises funds for Motor Neurone Disease

Brewing Legacy: How Cold Town Beer is honouring Doddie Weir with the support of APC Edinburgh and The APC Network

When Cold Town Beer was founded in Edinburgh in 2017, its vision was to combine tradition and innovation, crafting small-batch artisan beers that honour Scotland’s rich brewing heritage while pushing the boundaries of modern brewing.

Named after Edinburgh’s Calton Hill – historically known as “Caltoun” or “Cold Town” – this brewery quickly became a local favourite, celebrated for its commitment to quality, sustainability and community.

Today, Cold Town Beer continues to create a meaningful impact, not only with its craft beer but also through initiatives such as Doddie Beir.

Honouring Doddie Weir with Doddie Beir

Doddie Beir is more than just a limited-edition lager. It’s a tribute to George Wilson “Doddie Weir” OBE, the rugby legend, who passed away from Motor Neurone Disease (MND) in 2022. With its smooth and crisp flavour, Doddie Beir aims to raise funds for the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, which he founded in 2017 to advance MND research and provide support to individuals affected by the disease.

Every pint of Doddie Beir sold supports the foundation, helping to fund vital research into finding a cure for MND. Since its launch in 2020, Doddie Beir has enabled Cold Town Beer to donate over £15,000 to the foundation, with a commitment to contribute at least £11,000 more over the next two years.

A beer made with Doddie’s touch

“Doddie Beir is deeply personal to us,” explains Louise Maclean, Business Development Director at Signature Pub Group Ltd. “It was born out of a close friendship with Doddie and Nic Wood, owner of Signature Pub Group Ltd. We wanted to create a beer that felt true to him- light-hearted, fun and well-loved, just like Doddie himself.”

Doddie was actively involved in the beer’s development, ensuring it reflected his personal taste. “In 2019, we had the privilege of brewing this lager with Doddie himself. He wanted a beer that was less sweet, a little more bitter and crisp like a classic Pilsner,” Louise adds. “His fingerprints are all over Doddie Beir, and we’re proud to share it with rugby fans everywhere.”

Partnering with APC Edinburgh for seamless deliveries

In 2020, Cold Town Beer partnered with APC Edinburgh and The APC network to support the growing business and manage the increasing demand for reliable, secure deliveries of fragile, liquid products. This partnership has also been instrumental in the success of the Doddie Beir project, ensuring the beer is delivered in peak condition across Scotland and beyond.

“The APC and APC Edinburgh’s local approach and reliable overnight delivery service have been game changers for us,” Ben Wallace, Sales Consultant at Cold Town, shares.

“As a craft brewery rooted in our community, we trust APC Edinburgh to handle our deliveries with care. Their local depot team has been incredibly supportive, ensuring every delivery arrives in perfect condition.”

Looking ahead

With Doddie Beir, Cold Town Beer is ready to make an even greater impact during the Six Nations tournament and beyond. “We’re excited to share this special beer with rugby fans across the UK and to continue supporting the incredible work of the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation,” Louise says.

Ailsa Hamilton, Sales Manager at APC Edinburgh said: “Partnering with Cold Town Beer on this meaningful project has been a privilege.

“We’re proud to support their mission and play a role in their efforts to support the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation. It’s inspiring to work alongside a company so committed to making a positive impact and we look forward to continuing this partnership as they grow and achieve even greater things.”

Find out more about Cold Town Beer here: https://coldtownbeer.com/

and APC Edinburgh here: https://www.apcedinburgh.com/

Celebrate in STYLE at St James Quarter this Valentine’s Day

Love is all around the Quarter!

Valentine’s Day is the day to show how much you care – whether that’s for a partner, friend or even yourself – but it can be tricky to find the perfect way to say, “I love you”.

So, St James Quarter is playing cupid with a curated line-up of brands offering delicious deals and sumptuous meals during this special holiday. Because food is after all the universal language of love!

But, if you prefer a different route to the heart, St James Quarter is also home to some of the UK’s favourite brands. Whether your significant other is a fashion-lover, jewellery connoisseur, or has a tenderness for technology, St James Quarter has the perfect gift for everyone.

Dine, drink and dazzle your loved ones this Valentine’s:

SushiSamba: Take Valentine’s Day to new heights at SushiSamba Edinburgh. Spice up your night with the Taste of Valentine’s Menu, priced at £125 per person. Sip on handcrafted cocktails or Champagne, and take in the iconic panoramic views of the sparkling Edinburgh skyline.

Duck & Waffle: Make this Valentine’s Day memorable with a feast for the senses. Enjoy sharing bites for the table, with your choice of starter, main and dessert plus a glass of Prosecco at Duck & Waffle for £70 per person. Select from their range of famous dishes, with a set menu available for one night only on Friday 14th February.

The Alchemist: Enjoy a date with a difference at The Alchemist, with an exclusive mini masterclass for two. Choose a cocktail to create and enjoy, delivering your own dash of theatre for £18 per person. Bookings are available on Wednesday 12th – Friday 14th and Sunday 16th February from 4pm – 9pm.

The Botanist: Indulge in The Botanist Valentine’s sharing menu, including a selection of starters, their famous sharing Hanging Kebab, and a limited-edition Valentine’s Cookie Dough for two. The menu is set to launch on Thursday 13th February and will be available until Sunday 16th February. The Botanist is also hosting a Galentine’s Power Ballad Bingo on Thursday 13^th February.

The Botanist is also partnering with luxury skincare brand, Khiel’s, to offer complimentary samples and money off vouchers for guests dining from the Valentine’s menu.

The Real Greek: Embark on a Greek Love Affair! The mouthwatering offer includes Moussaka for two, Greek Flatbread, a cold Meze for dipping, Greek Salad and two desserts.

Add a sweet treat at Krispy Kreme: This Valentine’s Day, Krispy Kreme is filling the world with love with three new heart-shaped doughnuts: Daisy For You, You Are My Sunshine and Best Buds flavours. Launched on Monday 27th January, the doughnuts are available until Friday 14th February.

Molton Brown will celebrate with a sensory journey hosting a Paccari Chocolate Tasting on Friday 14^th and a Valentine’s Afternoon Tea for Two on Sunday 16^th February. NEOM is also on-hand to add a personal touch to the special day with their pop-up calligraphy station on Friday 14^th February.

For more information about what’s going on at St James Quarter this Valentine’s Day visit: https://stjamesquarter.com/event/valentines-day/.

St Valentine might be the patron saint of love, but St James has got your celebrations covered!

Cafe reopens at Portrait Gallery

Have you heard the exciting news? Café Portrait is open again with a fresh new look!

Join us for a quick bite or a leisurely brunch in The Nook, our new and tranquil dining space. Enjoy signature dishes prepared right in our kitchen, inspired by the beautiful Portrait gallery’s artworks.

The menu will include delicious food made from fresh, seasonal ingredients, with everything prepared onsite. Under the guidance of Head Chef Alec, new signature dishes have been crafted, inspired by the gallery’s artwork.

One standout from The Nook’s menu is the Smokie Hash, a vibrant dish of smoked haddock, sweet potato hash, poached egg, wilted kale, spinach, grilled vine tomato, and cava beurre blanc.

It’s inspired by John Bellany’s Queen Street Café painting, which hangs in the Café and prominently features fish.

We’ve missed you, and we’re excited to welcome you back from 10am-4:30pm, daily. See you soon!

Roddy Scott Photography

Supporting Orkney’s farmers and food producers

Plans for new abattoir get funding boost

Orkney’s farmers, crofters and producers could benefit from a new local abattoir which will help them bring their produce to market, benefit the island’s economy and support high-welfare meat production.

First Minister John Swinney visited Orkney Auction Mart, which has received a £15,000 grant as a lead partner to help build the business case for a new, fit-for-purpose processing plant.

The funding is part of the Scottish Government’s Small Producers Pilot Fund, which this year has provided a total of £256,500 to support private kill abattoirs including in Shetland, Wishaw, Barra, Dingwall and Mull.

By creating more localised supply chains, the Fund aims to increase the proportion of food grown and processed by small farms and small holders, and consumed within the community.

The First Minister said: “The Scottish Government is committed to supporting small producers and strengthening Scotland’s food supply chain. We know that local marts and abattoirs play an important role in supporting island businesses and ensuring the best animal welfare.

“A new facility in Orkney would bring many benefits for the people who live and work here, supporting economic growth in the area and the future sustainability of the island’s food production industry. We will continue to work with HIE and the Orkney Islands Council as the project develops.”

Chair of Orkney Auction Mart Alan Corrigall said: “We were delighted to welcome the First Minister to Orkney to explain, first hand, how vital a new abattoir is for our community. Our case has been well received and we very much welcome the Scottish Government’s support.

“We’re looking forward to working in partnership with local butchers and other stakeholders, to build a strong business case for this important project.”

Supporting Scotland’s small producers – gov.scot