food and drink – Page 3 – The NEN

Corks pop as Wine Importers celebrates its own 50-year vintage

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.”

Huge queues as Popeyes® opens on Princes Street

Customers queued for over 12 hours on Princes Street to be first to try the famous Chicken Sandwich yesterday

The much-hyped arrival of Popeyes® UK in Edinburgh yesterday had fans queuing down Princes Street from 10.30pm on Thursday night, eager to be the first to try the world-famous Chicken Sandwich.

Opening its doors at 11am, Popeyes® UK celebrated its Edinburgh debut in true Mardi Gras style. Its signature New Orleans hospitality arrived on Princes St, with confetti cannons and live band The Brass Funkeys entertaining customers. Making launch day memorable, fans also had the chance to snap a photo in the new Popeyes® bite booth, capturing all of Edinburgh’s first bite moments.

Over 100 chicken fans lined up from 10.30pm to get a taste of the world-famous Popeyes® Chicken Sandwich.

First in the queue was Jonathan McCaleb who said: “I’m a huge Popeyes® fan, it’s my top-tier fried chicken restaurant!

“Since moving here from America in September, I haven’t had a Popeyes® and I’ve been craving it – especially after seeing the team out and about on campus at the University of Edinburgh yesterday.

“I’ve been waiting over 12 hours to be first in line, and I can’t wait to finally get a taste of that southern goodness again!”

Tom Crowley, Popeyes® UK Chief Executive Officer, commented: “The turnout in Edinburgh today has been incredible.

“People across Scotland have shown their love for our Louisiana chicken, and Edinburgh has now proved just as popular. We look forward to bringing a taste of New Orleans to even more customers across the city.”

Now officially open, the Edinburgh Princes Street location serves the full Popeyes menu.

The line-up includes fan favourites like the iconic Popeyes® Chicken Sandwich, Wings and Tenders. Each piece of Popeyes® famous chicken is marinated for 12 hours in bold Louisiana seasoning, then hand-breaded and battered for that world-famous ‘shatter crunch,’ and complemented by delicious sides like its Original Biscuits and Cajun Gravy.

Plus, the all-new Saucin’ range is dripping with bold flavour featuring three New Orleans-inspired sauces: cheesy Garlic Parm, smokin’ Bold BBQ and spicy Buffalo.

From today, Saturday 15 March, Popeyes® will also be serving up its breakfast menu from 8am to 11am each day. The menu features the Big Cajun Roll, Cajun Hash Browns, and indulgent Nutella-topped buttermilk biscuits – a classic British breakfast with a New Orleans twist.

Popeyes® is located at 131-133 Princes Street, Edinburgh and open from 8am until 10pm. The new 86-seat restaurant includes touch screen self-service kiosks and collection points for orders made online via the Popeyes® UK website or official app.

Edinburgh Princes Street is Popeyes® seventh restaurant in Scotland, as part of its ambitious plans to open more than 45 restaurants across the UK in 2025.

To find out more about Popeyes® Edinburgh, visit the website here or follow the brand on Instagram at @PopeyesUK or TikTok at @popeyesuk

Less booze than bread!

British Beer and Pub Association urges Government to change description rules as supermarket staples can contain more alcohol than no-alcohol beers

At 0.05% UK non-alcoholic thresholds are most stringent in the world
Restrictions mean supermarket staples such as yoghurt and bread can contain more alcohol than No alcohol beer
BBPA calls on Government to change descriptions to support public health goals and so the public have a greater variety of No alcohol beers

The BBPA is calling for a change in UK No/ Low definitions considering many supermarket staples contain more alcohol than No alcohol beer and current rules penalise British brewers.

The leading trade body says a slight change in the threshold to 0.5% ABV would lead to brewers being able to create many more No/ Low alcohol beers, which would help people choose moderation if they want to.

Currently, ‘alcohol free’ beer in the UK must be 0.05% ABV or below, whereas non-alcoholic beer from many other European nations and international markets is allowed up to 0.5% ABV.

Brewers across the UK are investing a huge amount of time and money in creating innovative products, and 86% of pubs now stock No/ Low options. On top of this, 8% of pubs are serving a No/ Low option on draught, proving how the industry is helping public health goals and helping pubs be even more inclusive.

However, given the lack of a level playing field, British brewers are effectively penalised – even in the UK – as they cannot compete with European brewers who have greater freedom to make No/ Low beer.

In the UK an ‘alcohol free’ beer must be below 0.05% ABV whereas non-alcoholic beer from many other EU and international markets adhere to a slightly higher threshold of 0.5% ABV.

With the sector forced to work within such a restrictive threshold, the BBPA has pointed out that many products contain more alcohol than a 0.05% beer.

This was acknowledged in the previous Government’s evidence review published alongside their consultation on No/ Low definitions. The then Government recognised that foods such as bread, fruit juice and yoghurt can all contain a level of alcohol that is undeclared and does not need to be labelled or indeed is a cause for concern.

Specifically, their evidence found levels of up to 1.2g of alcohol per 100g of bread, and 0.77g of alcohol per litre of fruit juice. The Government also highlighted that an individual would need to drink 8 pints of 0.5% ABV in an hour to reach the same blood alcohol content as if they consumed one 4% ABV pint of beer.

This highlights the challenges and unfairness faced by UK brewers.

Emma McClarkin, CEO of the BBPA said: “It couldn’t be clearer that British brewers want to create more No/ Low options and cater to booming demand but are at a distinct disadvantage when compared to international neighbours.

“Our sector is committed to tackling harmful alcohol consumption, proven by how brewers are creating more No/ Low products, and more pubs are stocking these products.

“Changing current highly restrictive ABV thresholds to match international neighbours will help brewers create more products and give consumers more options when choosing moderation, all of which will help public health goals.”

From a public health perspective there is clear and robust evidence that no and low alcohol drinks are effective in supporting those seeking to moderate or reduce their alcohol consumption.    

The No/ Low category is coming off a recording breaking 2024 and Christmas period with up to 140 million pints expected to have been drunk last year. However, there remains huge scope for further growth.

With this in mind, it is vital that the No/ Low category is supported so that it can continue to grow and be an option those who are choosing moderation, the BBPA said.

Forever Edinburgh launches Edinburgh’s ultimate menu

Celebrating the city’s cafe culture

Forever Edinburgh is partnering with the city’s independent bakeries and cafes to launch Edinburgh’s ultimate tasting menu.

Collaborating with eight of the city’s top producers, Forever Edinburgh has created the Ultimate Edinburgh Menu—a unique foodie’s guide offering an alternative take on the traditional tourist map. Available for download via Forever Edinburgh’s website, this exclusive guide is perfect for visitors looking to savour the city’s finest bakes, brews, and bites.

The menu offers an authentic, insider-led perspective. Each participating business has not only shared its own offerings but has also recommended another must-visit spot in the city. The result is a trail of unmissable cafes, bakeries, and coffee roasters, curated by those who know Edinburgh’s food scene best.

Celebrating the capital’s blooming cafe culture, the second instalment in the Meet Edinburgh’s Makers series, ‘Bakers and Baristas’, focuses on the city’s talented bakers, baristas, and independent café owners. It will shine a spotlight on the craftspeople and artisans that have helped shape Edinburgh into one of the UK’s top destinations for food and drink experiences.

Cllr Jane Meagher, leader of the City of Edinburgh Council said: “Edinburgh’s cafe culture is a vibrant part of the city’s charm, from artisan bakeries to speciality coffee houses.

“The Meet Edinburgh’s Makers initiative allows us to champion the talent behind these fantastic businesses and inspire visitors to explore Edinburgh’s thriving cafe scene. The Ultimate Edinburgh Menu is a brilliant resource for anyone looking to discover the city’s best-kept foodie secrets.”

Featured in the menu are local favourites Dune Bakery, Twelve Triangles, Mimi’s Bakehouse, Patina, The Bearded Baker, Little Fitzroy, The Kilted Doughnut and The Milkman.

Lewis Gill, owner of Dune Bakery, said: “Meet Edinburgh’s Makers is a fantastic initiative that celebrates the city’s creative spirit and provides a platform for Edinburgh’s unique independent businesses to showcase their craft.

“We’re proud to be involved in the ‘Bakers and Baristas’ campaign and to be able to highlight the incredible work our team and the city’s talented bakers and baristas create every day.

“It’s wonderful to come together to celebrate the places that make Edinburgh so special and to recognise the passion and craftsmanship behind every bake and brew. We hope this campaign inspires visitors to explore Edinburgh’s food and drink scene, and we’re delighted to be featured alongside such an inspiring group of makers.”

’Bakers and Baristas’ is part of the Experience the Beauty campaign, an inbound leisure visitor campaign, which aims to build year-round demand for Edinburgh by showcasing the city’s unique, surprising and memorable experiences.

Cafe culture is a booming sector of Edinburgh’s hospitality industry and ‘Bakers and Baristas’ highlights the city’s diverse and flourishing food scene while supporting local independent businesses.

To learn more about Meet Edinburgh’s Makers – Bakers & Baristas and download the Ultimate Edinburgh Menu to embark on a delicious journey, visit:

https://edinburgh.org/meet-edinburghs-makers/bakers-and-baristas/

A historic Edinburgh icon returns

John’s Coffee House and Tavern reopens after 200 years!

After 200 years, John’s Coffee House and Tavern is returning to Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile following a £500,000 investment from CoDE Concepts.

Once a renowned gathering place for Scotland’s legal minds, writers, and thinkers, the revived John’s Coffee House and Tavern honours its rich past while celebrating the best of local Scottish produce.

Following a complete refurbishment, the new space allows the original assets of the coffee house to stand out thanks to Edinburgh-based interior designers, Morgan Architects. Working to accentuate the historic details of the coffee house, the brand-new, warm and inviting space welcomes guests to enjoy everything from breakfast in the morning to drinks later at night, staying true to Edinburgh’s 17^th century coffee house and taverns.

Founded in 1688 in Parliament Square, John’s Coffee House and Tavern was a lively hub of intellectual discussion and social debate. At the time, there was little distinction between coffee houses and taverns – both served coffee, ale, wine and food making them central to Edinburgh’s bustling social and political scene. John’s Coffee House was no exception, drawing in a diverse crowd of legal minds, writers and merchants.

Frequented by notable figures such as Adam Smith and David Hume, it is said that some of the most influential ideas of the Enlightenment were born here, with a coffee or ale in hand. Judges and advocates famously gathered for their midday “meridians”, a stiff drink before heading back to court. Though the original establishment was tragically lost in the Great Fire of Edinburgh in 1824, its legacy lives on.

Goods of all kinds once passed through John’s Coffee House, from coffee, fine wines, to land, ships and even stocks of the Royal Bank of Scotland. Now, two centuries later, this historic establishment is reopening offering a menu that blends tradition with contemporary Scottish flavours.

Signature drinks include the historic ‘Cauld Cock & Feather’, a glass of brandy with raisins, once a favourite of 18th-century patrons, and ‘The Enlightened Irish Coffee,’ featuring Highland Nectar Scotch Whisky Liqueur, freshly brewed coffee, maple syrup, and a topping of whipped cream. Guests can also enjoy sharing boards featuring Scottish cheeses, charcuterie, and artisanal chutneys from Arran.

Sourcing ingredients from the local suppliers, the coffee house and tavern will feature tea and coffee from Edinburgh Tea Company and Common Coffee, haggis from Hall’s of Scotland, and baked goods from Le Petit Français and The Edinburgh Scone Company. Drinks include craft beers from Bellfield Brewery and cider from Edinburgh Cider Co.

Andrew Landsburgh, Director and Founder of CoDE Concepts shared: “This is one of Edinburgh’s most fascinating and storied buildings. Walking through the old cells and courtrooms back in 2019, when opening the CoDE The Court, was eerie, yet inspiring. Our vision was to modernise the space while paying homage to its extraordinary history.

“Coffee was at the heart of John’s Coffee House and Tavern for over a century, fuelling debates, shaping ideas and bringing people together. Now 200 years later, we’re proud to continue this tradition, serving exceptional coffee and drinks in a space where history is written on the walls.”

Located in a Category A-listed building within Edinburgh’s Old Town Conservation Area and World Heritage Site, the new John’s Coffee House and Tavern invites visitors to step into history while enjoying the best of Scotland’s culinary offerings.

For further information or to make a booking visit https://johnscoffeehouse.com/.

Panda & Sons and Grey Goose team up to launch Edinburgh’s hottest new cocktail trend

MEET 2025’S HOTTEST LITTLE TREND: THE GREY GOOSE® TINY ‘TINI

In 2025, small is the new big, with tiny drinks and shareable plates stealing hearts and dominating menus – the iconic vodka martini cocktail is joining the trend.

Set to lead a ‘Martineissance’ in 2025 – the GREY GOOSE® Vodka Tiny ‘Tini is predicted to open the doors of the martini cocktail to a brand-new era of cocktail lovers.

In case you hadn’t heard, the vodka martini cocktail is making a stylish comeback, blending timeless elegance with new bartender creativity to suit every taste. But for some, the classic martini cocktail can feel like a bit ‘too intimidating’.

Introducing the new GREY GOOSE Tiny ‘Tini. Partnering with renowned cocktail bars across London, Manchester and Edinburgh, the iconic vodka brand has worked with bars to introduce a flight of miniature GREY GOOSE vodka martini cocktails – perfectly chilled, perfectly sized, and perfect for social occasions.

Tapping into the increasing trends of moderation, flavour exploration and accessible luxury, the GREY GOOSE Tiny ‘Tini makes vodka martini cocktails more approachable, proving that great things really do come in small packages.

The ‘small and mini’ trend is showing no signs of slowing down for 2025 either – with more and more people developing a fascination for craftsmanship, where intricate, miniature designs are admired for their artistry, attention to detail – and flavour.

Lexa Ulijaszek, UK Ambassador for GREY GOOSE commented: “When it comes to the vodka martini cocktail, size does matter for some. Sometimes a full-sized martini cocktail can be a little bit too intimidating.

“Or over the course of great conversation between friends, the final sip of your drink may not be as superbly chilled or balanced in taste as the beginning. As a result, the offer of a ‘sip sized cocktail’ is gaining traction across many of the UK’s most influential bars.”

“A sip size GREY GOOSETiny ‘Tini is the perfect solution – beautifully crafted, expertly chilled, elegantly served- with rich taste. A flight of three petite drinks allows you to responsibly enjoy the perfection of the ‘first sip’ of a martini cocktail while also experiencing a range of unique flavours.

“The trend is very much a UK-wide affair, with some of the best bars across Manchester, Edinburgh and London all serving the GREY GOOSETiny ‘Tini – ushering in a brand new and bold ‘sip sized’ era for the vodka martini cocktail.”

Set to lead a ‘Martineissance’ in 2025 – the GREY GOOSE Tiny ‘Tini is predicted to open the doors of the martini cocktail to a whole new generation of cocktail lovers.

Flights of GREY GOOSE Tiny ‘Tini’s range £12 to £25 and will be available across London (A Bar with Shapes for a Name, and Lobby bar at The London EDITION), Manchester (Blinker) and Edinburgh (Panda & Sons) for a limited time.

Where to sip a GREY GOOSE Tiny ‘Tini:

(Subject to availability. We suggest reservations where possible to avoid disappointment. All pricing set by the venues and subject to change).

Panda & Sons, Edinburgh

79 Queen St, Edinburgh EH2 4NF

£18

Reserve online at: Panda & Sons

Available March 1, through April 30.

A Bar with Shapes for a Name, London

232 Kingsland Rd, Whitmore Estate, London E2 8AX

£21

Reserve online at: home | club bauhaus

Available March 1, through April 30.

The Lobby Bar at The London EDITION

10 Berners St, London W1T 3NP

£25

Reserve online at: The London EDITION Lobby Bar | Soho London Bar & Cocktail Bar

Available March 3, through April 30.

Blinker, Manchester

64-72 Spring Gardens, Manchester M2 2BQ

£12 for flight of 3, or £4.50 for a single miniature cocktail

Reserve online at: Blinker

Available March 1, through April 30

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!