Scotmid Coop’s Leven Street store in Edinburgh has been recognised as the Crime Prevention Retailer of the Year at The Convenience Awards 2025, for its proactive and innovative approach to tackling retail crime.
Faced with rising levels of theft, particularly of spirits, Scotmid took decisive action to protect its staff, customers, and business. Spirits were relocated behind the kiosk to mitigate theft risks, but to maintain customer convenience, the store introduced pictorial sleeves on the original shelves, allowing shoppers to browse the full range.
This strategic move led to a 40% reduction in spirit theft over 12 months, without impacting sales. Due to its success, this initiative has since been rolled out to other stores facing similar challenges.
Beyond product security, Scotmid has invested in cutting-edge crime prevention measures, including:
Online incident reporting – enabling staff to log thefts, attempted thefts, and antisocial behaviour directly to the Scotmid Security Support Team for immediate action.
Intelligence-driven Security Support Team – a dedicated unit that analyses incident reports, liaises with law enforcement, and prioritises security efforts based on real-time data.
Body-worn cameras – introduced in higher-risk stores, resulting in a 10% reduction in violent incidents and acting as a deterrent against repeat offenders.
Advanced CCTV analytics – being developed to identify suspicious activity in real-time and integrate with Scotmid’s central monitoring system, enhancing staff response capabilities.
Debbie MacDonald, Lead Profit Protection Manager at Scotmid, said:“We are incredibly proud to receive this award, which reflects the dedication of our teams in making our stores safer.
“By implementing smart, intelligence-led security measures, we have not only reduced crime but also created a safer environment for colleagues and customers. We remain committed to enhancing our crime prevention strategies to stay ahead of emerging threats.”
Is there a secret formula for maintaining a truly balanced diet? With the constant influx of conflicting advice and trendy diets, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the information.
Amie Leckie, Health and Wellbeing Specialist and Lauren Hewitt, Registered Associate Nutritionist at Heart Research UK simplify the concept of a healthy, balanced diet and offer practical advice on how to achieve it:
What is a balanced diet?
We often hear the terms “balance” and “moderation” when discussing healthy eating, yet many of us struggle to find that sweet spot.
A healthy balanced diet is one that includes a variety of nutrient-rich foods in the right proportions, providing the body with essential macronutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins, fats and micronutrients like vitamins and minerals to support overall health, energy, and wellbeing. It emphasises moderation, variety and portion control to maintain long-term health and prevent disease.
What are macro and micronutrients?
When it comes to eating healthy, understanding the role of nutrients in our diet can help us make informed choices about what we put on our plates.
There are different categories of macronutrients. Macronutrients include carbohydrates, proteins, and fats and are the building blocks of our diet. They provide us with the energy to fuel our daily activities, support growth, and keep our bodies functioning properly.
Lauren Hewitt, a Registered Associate Nutritionist at Heart Research UK, explains: “Carbohydrates are the main source of energy for your body and are most associated with foods like pasta, rice, potatoes, bread, and cereal.But they are also found in other foods such as fruits and vegetables and sugar-sweetened foods and drinks such as cookies and fizzy drinks.
“There are two types of carbohydrates – simple and complex. Simple carbohydrates generally include refined, ‘white’ food like white bread, pasta and rice; these break down quickly into energy.
“Complex carbohydrates should make up the bulk of your intake as they release energy more slowly and these include wholegrains like brown rice and wholewheat bread, beans, lentils and vegetables.
“Fats are the body’s second source of energy, and these are used up when we have depleted our carbohydrate stores or when we are consuming a very low-carbohydrate diet.
“Consuming fat is essential, without fats you wouldn’t be able to absorb vitamins A, D, E and K, which are fat soluble and can only be digested when there is fat present. Fats also provide essential fatty acids that the body can’t make itself; these help your body to regulate the immune and central nervous systems as well as help with skin health, brain function and heart health.
“Choose heart-healthy fat sources such as those coming from nuts, seeds, oily fish, avocados and olive oil.
Lauren continues: “Protein is the body’s last resort for energy, used when carbohydrate and fat stores are depleted. While it’s best known for helping repair and rebuild muscle after exercise, it also supports overall health.
Protein is essential for the growth and maintenance of tissues, keeping bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and skin strong and healthy. It supports the immune system by forming antibodies to fight infections and helps keep you feeling fuller for longer.
“Healthy, high-protein foods include lean meats, fish, eggs and reduced-fat dairy. We can also obtain protein from plant-based sources like chickpeas, lentils, beans, nuts, seeds and tofu. It’s a good idea to include both animal and plant-based options.”
Micronutrients include vitamins and minerals and are needed in smaller amounts than macronutrients, but they are just as important for maintaining overall health, supporting immune function, bone health, energy production, cognitive health and much more. The key to ensuring we consume enough micronutrients is to eat a variety of foods.
How can you achieve a balanced diet?
Eating a varied diet full of different colours can ensure nutrient diversity. Try to include all the colours of the rainbow over the course of each week.
Amie Leckie, Health and Wellbeing Specialist at Heart Research UK, said: “It’s important to understand that we don’t need to cut entire food groups from our diet to eat well and be healthy. All foods can be enjoyed in appropriate amounts, and we should avoid extreme diets that vilify certain foods or whole food groups.
“Eating healthily doesn’t mean that you have to miss out on the foods you enjoy, it just means that you should aim to eat everything in moderation.
“By swapping some of your unhealthier choices for healthier ones, you can still enjoy tasty food and keep your heart healthy. You should start by making one or two swaps, and once these become part of your routine then add in a few more. By doing this gradually, you’re more likely to stick to it, form a new healthy eating habit, and stay on track with your healthy lifestyle goals.”
You can swap to lower sugar versions of your sauces to get started, or you can swap from white bread, pasta, cereal, and rice to wholegrain varieties. Take a look at our Healthy Food Swap Cards for some inspiration.
Even if the food we are eating is healthy, we can still eat too much. We’ve created a handy Portion Size Guide to help you understand what healthy portion sizes look like
Mindful eating follows on nicely from the one above. Slowing down and paying attention to our hunger cues can help us avoid overeating and make better food choices.
What does a healthy meal look like?
Building a healthy plate is a simple way to ensure you’re getting the right balance of nutrients. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Fill half your plate with vegetables such as leafy greens, broccoli, cauliflower, courgettes, cucumbers, peppers, tomatoes, asparagus, green beans, brussels sprouts and mushrooms.
Fill a quarter of your plate with healthy proteins like chicken, turkey, fish, tofu and legumes like lentils, chickpeas and beans.
Fill a quarter of your plate with wholegrain carbohydrates such as brown or wild rice, wholewheat pasta, quinoa and buckwheat and/or starchy vegetables such as sweet potatoes, potatoes, sweetcorn, peas, butternut squash, pumpkin, carrots, beets and parsnips.
Include a small portion of healthy fats like avocado, olive oil, or nuts.
Achieving a balanced diet is a gradual process and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Experiment with different foods to see what works best for your lifestyle, and remember that small, consistent changes lead to lasting results.
Encouraging small businesses to thrive and foster collaboration amongst producers and food groups to promote local produce.
The Scottish Government is providing £100,000 funding for the sixth round of the Scotland Food & Drink Partnership’s Regional Food Fund.
Grants of up to £5,000 are available to Scottish food business for projects aimed at elevating Scotland’s food and drink industry, enhancing food tourism and showcasing the best local produce the country has to offer.
Since 2021, the Scottish Government has provided over £500,000 to the fund, which has supported 104 collaborative projects, varying from creative artwork to increase customer numbers, new equipment and regional marketing campaigns.
Rural Affairs Secretary Mairi Gougeon said: “Scotland’s food and drink industry is worth £15 billion to the Scottish economy; it is one of the country’s largest employers and is already well-recognised and established across the world.
“However, we realise how vital engaging with regional markets is in achieving our industry strategy and growth ambitions for the next ten years. That’s why, through remarkable initiatives like the Regional Food Fund, we are providing small projects the opportunity to promote and showcase their regional goods.
“This funding enables businesses to raise awareness of locally available produce to communities and showcase some of Scotland’s most exciting food and drink ventures.”
Head of Regional Food at Scotland Food & Drink, Fiona Richmond said: “As the Regional Food Fund enters its sixth round, we look forward to reviewing a diverse range of applications.
“Over the years, the fund has supported everything from food and drink festivals and campaigns to collaborative initiatives showcasing the journey from field to fork. This highlights the strength of the desire for local produce and the growing food tourism scene in Scotland.
“The fund encourages regional collaboration and celebrates unique food and drink stories that continue to nurture and elevate Scotland’s thriving food culture, making it a renowned destination for food experiences.”
Forever Edinburgh is giving Edinburgh mums (and their children) the tools to create the perfect Mother’s Day through fantastic rewards and a competition with unforgettable Mother’s Day presents.
Thanks to Resident Rewards Edinburgh, one lucky mum will win an Escape At One package for two people at the Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa’s One Spa. This package includes access to the thermal suite, including the hydropool, crystal steam room, rock sauna and more.
Another nine mums will win indulgent treats from Summerhall Distillery, and a voucher for pastries from bakery chain Twelve Triangles, which will be perfect for breakfast in bed. The winner of the spa trip will also receive the same hamper.
This competition aims to showcase the very best of what Edinburgh has to offer and celebrate the city’s local businesses and community spirit, making Mother’s Day even more special for mums in the city.
Matt Gammell, founder of Summerhall Distillery, said: “We’re thrilled to be part of this wonderful Mother’s Day celebration.
“Our products are crafted with care, and we’re delighted to contribute to making this special day even more memorable for the lucky winners. We like to think that gin is the perfect way to raise a glass to mums!”
Fiona Young, director of One Spa, said: “A spa day at the Sheraton Grand is all about indulgence, relaxation, and feeling truly appreciated.
“We’re giving one mum the opportunity to step away from the everyday and enjoy some well-deserved me-time in our award-winning spa.”
Residents can also use Resident Rewards to plan a special day out with their mums or mother figures and save, including discounts on dining at Surgeons Quarter, Brewhemia, The Alchemist, The Brasserie at The Scholar and the latest Resident Rate – 15% off dining at 3 Blind Mice just down from the Royal Mile.
Residents can also get discounts on a number of the city’s best distillery / gin craft experiences for their mums, including a tour and tasting at competition partners Summerhall Distillery or other fantastic attractions like Johnnie Walker Princes Street, newly opened Edinburgh Gin and Port of Leith Distillery.
Want a different take on Mother’s Day? Why not explore the city’s spooky side with 10% off Enthral Experiences’ Witches Old Town Walking Tour or a city ghost or night tour by Mercat Tours. Or get out and active with Ricky’s Bicycle Tours or Stride Out Running Tours.
All these rewards and more are available through Resident Rewards Edinburgh, the perfect way to plan an unforgettable Mother’s Day in Edinburgh.
The competition is open now, with one spa day up for grabs and nine more of the ultimate Mother’s Day hampers.
Entries will close at midnight on Monday 31 March 2025. To enter, visit:
This Mother’s Day, treat Mum to an unforgettable dining experience with the bold and vibrant flavours of Latin America at Somewhere by Nico.
Available for a limited time only in both the Glasgow and Edinburgh venues, this exclusive offer lets you celebrate in style with three delicious dishes and a Latin American cocktail of your choice for just £35 per person.
What’s Included:
A selection of three Latin American-inspired dishes
A Latin American cocktail of your choice
Live music from Verde to set the perfect atmosphere
When & Where:
Edinburgh: Live music from Verde 2pm – 4pm
Glasgow: Live music from Verde 6pm – 8pm
How to Book:
This exclusive Mother’s Day offer is available to book in the Glasgow and Edinburgh venues through the below links:
Over 530 pies compete for crowning glory – biggest turnout in awards’ history
Co-Head Judge Gordon Newlands, Quality Meat Scotland with Lesley Cameron, Chief Executive Scottish Bakers and Kyle Rodgers, Rainbow Dust.
A record-breaking number of entries for the 25th annual World Championship Scotch Pie Awards, organised by Scottish Bakers, were judged yesterday (Wednesday 26 March) at the Carnegie Conference Centre in Dunfermline.
With an astonishing 539 entries from 88 companies across multiple categories, this Silver Jubilee year marks the biggest turnout in the competition’s history – and perhaps its fiercest yet.
A panel of over 50 expert judges, representing every part of the industry – from field to fork – are tasting and assessing each entry. These include technical experts, NPD specialists, buyers, chefs, multiple retail representatives, and consumers, ensuring the judging reflects both the full supply chain and end customer.
This year also introduces two new head judges: butcher Gordon Newlands and baker Kyle Rodgers, making the competition more representative of both sectors. The diverse judging panel mirrors the dynamic and evolving nature of the industry.
The 2025 theme, “Pieoneers”, celebrates the passion, skill and dedication of the bakers, butchers, and pie makers who continue to push boundaries while staying true to tradition. The campaign recognises those leading innovation in the industry and shaping its future.
Lesley Cameron, Chief Executive of Scottish Bakers, said: “This is a milestone year for the World Championship Scotch Pie Awards, we are thrilled to see a record-breaking number of entries.
“The talent and innovation in the industry have never been stronger, and our Pieoneers continue to push the boundaries of excellence. Today’s judging is a testament to their incredible craftsmanship.”
Co-Head Judge Gordon Newlands, Brand Development and Scotch Butchers Club Manager at Quality Meat Scotland, added: “The standard of entries continues to rise year after year.
“With new categories and a more representative judging panel, we’re seeing even greater creativity and skill. It’s an honour to be part of it.”
Co-Head Judge Kyle Rodgers, UK Sales Manager for Rainbow Dust, agreed: “It’s incredible to see the innovation and passion that goes into every entry.
“Our Pieoneers are raising the bar yet again – it’s been a feast for the senses!”
Paul Long, Managing Director of BAKO, concluded: “We’re proud to continue to support the 25th World Championship Scotch Pie Awards as a strategic partner in this milestone year.
“To see a record number of entries from so many talented bakers, butchers and pie makers is a real testament to the strength and passion of our industry.
“The new Pieoneers campaign is a fantastic addition, helping to shine an even brighter spotlight on the people and skills behind the craft of pie-making – and we’re delighted to play our part in supporting the awards and industry talent.”
This year saw the introduction of two new categories: Retailer Pie Product of the Year, sponsored by Tracker (TRKR), and Lighter Options, co-sponsored by Reformul8 and Ulrick—reflecting changing consumer preferences while continuing to honour traditional excellence.
The competition is proudly supported by BAKO, this year’s Awards Partner, and Carr’s Flour, Diamond Sponsor, alongside other valued category sponsors.
The 2025 World Scotch Pie Champion will be crowned at a glittering awards ceremony at The Hilton in Glasgow on Saturday 10 May.
Aldi Scotland’s Supermarket Sweep challenge is back again for another year, giving customers in Edinburgh the chance to raise funds for Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS).
The supermarket challenge, inspired by the legendary game show, is sure to add excitement to the weekly shopping trip. As well as fundraising, Edinburgh locals have the chance to take home their favourite items from Aldi’s store in Chesser.
Launched in 2016, the supermarket challenge 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 Aldi’s Supermarket Sweep will go directly to CHAS, with £10,000 pledged in support.
Edinburgh residents can apply for the Supermarket Sweep from Monday 24 March to Sunday 30 March 2025.
Graham Nicolson, Group Buying Director, Aldi Scotland, said:“Our annual Supermarket Sweeps hold a special place in the Aldi calendar, donating over £50,000 to local charities since 2016. We’re very much looking forward to its return for another year and giving one lucky Edinburgh resident the chance to enjoy a truly unique supermarket experience.
“CHAS is a charity very close to our hearts, which provides a truly invaluable lifeline for families across Scotland, offering specialist care and unwavering support during the most difficult moments imaginable. This year, Aldi Scotland’s Supermarket Sweep will be travelling all over Scotland, giving Aldi customers nationally a brilliant opportunity to raise funds for CHAS while shining a light on the incredible work the charity does.”
The Caledonian Edinburgh is inviting Scottish artists and designers to submit entries for a unique art installation in their newly refurbished food & drinks destination, The Court.
The selected artist will receive a £10,000 commission to create a hero piece that will become a focal point of this iconic space.
About The Court:
Blending vintage luxury with mid-century design, The Court is a vibrant social hub celebrating artistry, culture, and music. The space features a grand cocktail bar, exceptional all-day dining, a patisserie, lounge and also a live music stage.
Brief
While the hotel’s rich history is acknowledged, we encourage artists to think beyond heritage and rail travel themes, creating a unique and engaging work that complements the newly re-imagined space’s energy and atmosphere. Visual excellence, storytelling, conceptual thinking, technical craftsmanship, subject depth, and understanding will be several of the aspects that the judging panel will take into consideration when successfully awarding the commission.
Entries should fit within a wall space of 8200 cm (w) x 3600cm (h), with one piece of art or a series of pieces.
Submission Details:
Entry Period: Open until 31st March 2025
Eligibility: Open to all Scottish artists (entry is free)
Selection Process: Reviewed by The Caledonian Edinburgh’s Ownership and Leadership Team
Artists are invited to visit and view The Court and seek inspiration and insight to their piece.
To submit an entry for the competition, artists can send their proposal, chosen media, length of commission required, and samples of their previous work to marketing@edinburghcaledonian.com and this will be shared with our Team for review.
A lucky Scot could score a signed Messi bottle and be in with the chance of scoring the ultimate prize: a trip for two to Miami to watch Messi’s team, Inter Miami CF
Ten imited-edition bottles with hidden “golden caps” are scattered across ten SPAR stores in the UK from today
Más+ by Messi, the positive hydration drink created by the football legend, Messi, is now available throughout the UK
Leo Messi is set to land in Edinburgh after the city’s local SPAR was selected as one of only ten shops to receive a special drop of his everyday hydration drink Más+ by Messi.
Global football icon Leo Messi is challenging supporters to embark on a thrilling scavenger hunt to celebrate the arrival of the drink in the UK.
Messi has challenged his legions of supporters to find one of ten special bottles of his new drink, each holding the key to money-can’t-buy prizes.
Starting today Monday 17th March at 4pm in select UK Spar stores, lucky customers can find one of ten signed golden-capped editions in any of the flavours of Más+ by Messi. They come with an exclusive bundle of Mas+ By Messi merchandise as well as a year’s supply of Más+ by Messi.
Plus, one grand prize winner will experience the ultimate Messi fan dream: a trip for two to Miami, including flights, accommodation, and tickets to witness a home ground match with Messi’s team, Inter Miami CF*
Leo Messi, who surprised fans 10 years ago by helicoptering into Hackney Marshes, said: “Both in football and in any challenge, the motivation to achieve the goal is what drives everyone, so I hope the hunt brings excitement to those who are always striving for their own moments of success, now powered by Más+. Good luck to everyone searching, and I hope to see the winner in the stands in Miami soon.”
Ten SPAR stores across the UK will have 100 free bottles for shoppers on a first come first served basis. One out of those 100 will have a winning gold cap.
As the world’s most awarded football champion, Leo Messi uniquely understands how hydration helps us achieve our goals, and he was directly involved in introducing Más+.
He wanted a drink he could proudly share with his friends, family, and teammates on Inter Miami CF, because Leo believes everyone deserves to feel like a champion in every part of life.
Jeremy Kanter, Global Chief Marketing Officer for Más+ by Messi, shared: “We knew we had to launch Más+ by Messi in the UK with big energy. We wanted to bring people together through their shared love of the beautiful game and encourage positive hydration with Más+ by Messi.”
Más+ by Messi has an electrolyte complex, vitamins, minerals and comes in four amazing flavours, inspired by Leo’s own milestones:
Miami Punch is named for his home and club, Inter Miami FC.
Orange d’Or nods to his 8 Ballon D’Or wins.
Berry Copa Crush honours the numerous trophies he has lifted.
Limón Lime League celebrates his four Champions League titles.
Despite Más meaning ‘more’ in Spanish, Mas+ by Messi has less sugar, carbs, and calories than many sports drinks—1g of sugar and just 10 calories per 500ml bottle as well as no artificial colours or sweeteners, making it excellent for everyday performance whilst not compromising on taste.
In addition to SPAR, fans can buy Más+ by visitinghttps://uk.masbymessi.com/.
The beverage will continue to roll out to additional UK markets through 2025.
A leading Scottish wine merchant celebrates its 50th anniversary this month, unveiling a refreshed brand identity and a series of events to mark the milestone.
Wine Importers was founded in Edinburgh during March 1975 by three local businessmen: Nicholas Henderson, Johnny Noble, and Robin Morrison. The group dreamed up the business over a nightcap in Whigham’s Wine Cellars, which later opened as a wine bar and remains a cornerstone of the Edinburgh food and drink scene.
Since that day, the business has grown into a premier supplier of fine wines to Scotland’s hospitality industry, providing a personalised service to hotels, restaurants, bars, and cafes across the country.
In 2007, Wine Importers was acquired by the private investment office of Sir David Murray’s family, Murray Capital, which itself celebrated 50 years in business last year.
The family has a strong passion for wine, which is further reflected in its direct investment into a French vineyard – Chateau Routas – and its 2010 acquisition of Scotland’s oldest wine merchants, Cockburns of Leith, which was established in 1796.
Wine Importers’ 50th anniversary celebrations will feature a series of key events throughout the year, including a special portfolio tasting at Murrayfield in March and an exclusive customer event later in the year. The company has also introduced a new refreshed logo and brand identity.
With a 18,000 square-foot bonded warehouse in Livingston, Wine Importers ensures a seamless supply chain, allowing for efficient distribution and quick turnaround times. The company’s regionalised sales team remains one of Scotland’s most experienced, offering tailored support and expert advice to customers.
Keith Murray, Director of Wine Importers, said: “We are proud to celebrate the 50-year anniversary of Wine Importers.
“This milestone is testament to the loyalty of our customers and the strong relationships we have built our global suppliers. We look forward to continuing to provide exceptional wines and service for years to come.”
Neil Renton, Managing Director, said: “The wine industry has changed dramatically over the past 50 years, and we are proud to have adapted and evolved while staying true to our values.
“As we celebrate this anniversary, we reaffirm our commitment to offering Scotland’s hospitality sector the best selection of wines, backed by unparalleled expertise and service.”
