Tag: Scotmid

Scotmid kicks off search for Scotland’s next food and drink favourites

Scotmid has begun its search to find the next Scottish Favourites, giving shoppers the chance to discover more locally sourced products in stores and helping Scottish producers reach new communities.

Producers from across the country are being invited to put their products forward for the chance to secure a place on Scotmid’s shelves, with applications now open to producers across a wide range of food and drink categories.

Scotmid has teamed up with Scotland Food & Drink for the 2026 Scottish Favourites competition, giving Scottish food and drink businesses an opportunity to bring their products to new customers through Scotmid stores, while helping shoppers discover more locally made products in their own communities.

The competition is turning up a notch this year. Scottish suppliers now have a chance to win one of three Gold Awards, with these lucky winners receiving both a listing in Scotmid stores and a £2,000 monetary prize to support their launch.

Scotmid Members will have the opportunity to decide on one of the Gold Award winners too and will be invited to taste and score products from all 12 shortlisted suppliers, with their highest-scoring product receiving the Member Gold Award.

Previous winners have seen a significant impact from taking part. Three Robins founder, Karen Robinson, said winning a listing for the company’s oat milk range had allowed the business to “double our distribution overnight, making our products available to families all across Scotland.”

Danny Scobie, Head of Commercial at Scotmid, said: “Scottish Favourites has become a great way for us to discover exciting products and producers from across Scotland, while giving businesses a real opportunity to get their products in front of more customers.

“We’ve seen the difference a Scotmid listing can make for previous winners. We want to hear from producers of all shapes and sizes – whether you’re an emerging business ready to take the next step or an established producer with something new for our customers.

“Scotland has an incredible food and drink sector, and we’re looking forward to discovering the products that could become our customers’ next Scottish favourites. As a community retailer, we know how much customers value local choice, and this competition is one way we can help bring more of Scotland’s best products into the heart of our communities.”

The launch coincides with Scottish Food & Drink September, the annual celebration of the people, products and businesses behind Scotland’s food and drink sector.

Alex Kidd, UK Market Manager – Retail at Scotland Food & Drink, said: ““We’re delighted to be partnering with Scotmid for the fifth consecutive year, providing Scottish food and drink businesses with a valuable platform to access the convenience retail market and raise awareness of their products.

“Scottish Food and Drink September is all about celebrating our vibrant and diverse food and drink industry, so it’s fantastic to have the Scottish Favourites competition launched as part of our month-long campaign.

“From innovative start-ups to well-established brands seeking to expand their retail presence, competitions such as Scottish Favourites play a vital role in supporting growth by helping producers build meaningful retail relationships, increase visibility, and take the next step in their business journey.”

Applications are now open to Scottish food and drink producers and close at 11.30am on Friday 16 October.

Find out more and apply:

https://foodanddrink.scot/events-and-membership/events/scotmids-scottish-favourites-2026

https://fs22.formsite.com/scotfooddrink/0ardbwq6s0/index

Edinburgh Scotmid colleague celebrates 35 years from shopfloor to senior role

From part-time store roles to senior leadership, four Scotmid colleagues are marking career milestones that together span more than 110 years. 

Their journeys highlight how one of Scotland’s leading convenience retailers continues to grow talent from within, creating long-term career paths across stores, operations, HR and learning and development.

Today, each continues to support colleagues, strengthen the business and help shape the next stage of Scotmid’s growth. 

For Lynne MacGillivray, the journey started in March 1991 in what was then known as a ‘shelf filler’ role at Scotmid’s South Queensferry store while she was still at school. 

More than 35 years later, Lynne is now a senior member of Scotmid’s HR team, having spent the past two decades supporting and developing colleagues across the business. 

Lynne said: “I never expected to stay as long as I have, but Scotmid’s variety of opportunities and strong community values made it somewhere I wanted to build my career. 

“Seeing colleagues build confidence, progress and achieve their potential has been one of the most rewarding parts of my role.” 

Kevin Lowe joined Scotmid in April 2001 as a Regional Business Manager. 

Over the last 25 years, he has supported significant change across the business, including major acquisitions, business transformation projects and the growth of Scotmid’s store estate. 

Reflecting on his time with Scotmid, Kevin said: “When I first started, we had around 50 stores, four Regional Business Managers and the bones of an expansion plan. 

“Today, we have more than 180 stores and a custom-built Head Office. It has been a fantastic growth journey, both personally and professionally, to be part of.” 

Following Scotmid’s acquisition of Morning Noon & Night in 2004, Jane Burns joined Airdrie’s Scotmid store as an experienced manager.  Since then, she has progressed through compliance, training and learning and development roles and is now a Lead Learning & Development Consultant, helping colleagues build successful careers of their own. 

Jane said: “I quickly saw that Scotmid genuinely puts people first. The care, compassion and empathy shown during the transition made a lasting impression. 

“What has kept me here is our people. I feel fortunate to support colleagues as they grow, progress and build careers of their own.” 

While studying Business and Information Management at university, Lynne Hedger joined Scotmid 25 years ago as a Customer Service Assistant. What began as a part-time job developed into a career spanning store management, change management and major business projects. Today, Lynne is Head of Central Operations and a member of Scotmid’s Retail Leadership Team. 

Reflecting on her Scotmid journey, she said: “I did not expect to stay after completing my degree, but I quickly got the retail bug. 

“The people, progression opportunities and support within the Society have shaped my career, with numerous mentors guiding and encouraging me along the way.” 

Margaret Anne Clark, Chief Operating Officer – Services at Scotmid, said: “All four of these incredible colleagues have each made an outstanding contribution and commitment to Scotmid over many years. 

“They have helped serve customers, support colleagues and guide the business through periods of growth and change. Their stories demonstrate the opportunities that exist within Scotmid and the difference people can make when they build a career with us. 

“We’re incredibly grateful for their commitment and proud to celebrate their milestones.” 

Together, their stories reflect Scotmid’s long-standing commitment to developing colleagues, recognising loyalty and creating careers that grow with the business. 

Scotland beats Brazil (in one-off Edinburgh match)!

Ahead of Scotland’s first World Cup appearance since 1998, a squad of recognisable names took to the pitch in Edinburgh for a one-off match against the Scotmid Brazil squad.

To celebrate Scotland’s return to the World Cup, Scotmid staff, customers, suppliers, family and friends came together to make up a Scotland and a Brazil team.

Those playing for Scotland bore more than just a passion for the game – many of them shared a surname with the squad preparing to take on Brazil on 24 June.

Taking to the pitch were Gunn, McGinn, Ferguson, Ralston, Christie, Stewart, Robertson, Tierney and McKenna, who came together from across the country, united by their passion for football – and a desire to win.

Friends and family cheered from the stands as the match got underway and were treated to a energetic and exciting 90 minutes, which ended in an 11-9 victory for Scotland. Each player received a medal and a goodie bag packed with a range of Scottish favourites, with the winning team lifting the prestigious Champions Trophy.

The event celebrated Scotland’s qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, giving customers a day to remember through a celebration of community pride and national excitement.

Lauren Rafferty, Commercial Development Coordinator at Scotmid, said: “Scotland reaching the World Cup is a huge moment. We wanted to mark it in a way that would bring people together and give our customers their own moment on the pitch.

“It’s a bit of fun but it also reflects what Scotmid is all about: community, local pride and creating moments that people can enjoy together.”

While the result on the pitch may still be up for debate among those involved, the success of the event was clear, exciting the players for Scotland’s campaign – and a hope that their result is a foreshadow of Scotland’s World Cup success!

Pupil sees award-winning garden design bloom into life at Scotmid Head Office

Young designer opens bee-friendly garden

An Inverness pupil has seen her award-winning design come to life after officially unveiling the finished garden at Scotmid’s Head Office in Newbridge, Edinburgh. 

Eleven-year-old Shona Smith captured judges’ attention with her imaginative bee-friendly design in Scotmid’s nationwide competition celebrating teamwork, community and nature as part of the International Year of Co-operatives 2025.

Now, months later, she travelled from the Highlands to Edinburgh with her family to see the completed garden for the very first time. 

Working closely from Shona’s original sketch, Scotmid colleagues carefully recreated her vision, keeping the final layout and planting as true to her design as possible. 

The project brought together community groups and local suppliers from across Scotland. Herb planters were handcrafted by the Forth Bridges Men’s Shed to create an edible garden, while picnic benches were upcycled by members of Shettleston Growing Project in Glasgow. Logs used in the garden came from a recently felled sycamore tree in Angus. 

As part of the original school project, pupils learned about suitable plants and trees for the environment before carefully selecting the varieties included within the design. All plants and trees used in the finished garden were sourced locally. 

The finished garden features bee-friendly planting, edible herbs and shared seating areas designed to encourage people to stop, spend time together and enjoy nature. 

Shona said: “It feels amazing to see my drawing turned into a real garden. When I designed it, I wanted it to be a happy place for people and somewhere that would help bees too. 

“I still can’t quite believe it has actually been built, and that people are going to be able to enjoy it every day.” 

Eddie Thorn, President at Scotmid, said: “Seeing Shona’s drawing transformed into a real garden has been incredibly special. 

“Her idea perfectly captured community spirit and care for the environment, and we’re proud that her design now has a permanent home at Scotmid. 

“This project brought together colleagues, community groups and local suppliers to create something that will be enjoyed for years to come.” 

The garden will remain at Scotmid Head Office as a lasting symbol of creativity, community spirit, and co-operative values. 

Scots celeb hotspot hits Scotmid shelves in Edinburgh

A much-loved Glasgow Indian restaurant, popular with famous faces including Mel Gibson, Orlando Bloom and Sir Billy Connolly is bringing its best-loved dishes to homes across the country for the first time.

This week, Mister Singh’s – which has built a loyal following serving patrons for over 30 years and regularly attracts sports stars and celebrities – is launching two of its top selling signature curries in Scotmid stores nationwide.

The family-run restaurant, led by four generations of Scots with Punjabi heritage, will roll out its iconic Chicken Bhoona and South Indian Garlic Chilli ready meals in Scotmid stores from 6 May.

Until now, curry loving fans have travelled from across Scotland for a taste of Mister Singh’s rich flavours and perfected recipes. Now Scotmid customers can pick them up locally and enjoy them in the comfort of their own homes.

The dishes have been expertly developed alongside Glasgow-based PK Foods, which has more than 25 years’ experience in producing top quality, ethnic foods.

The move into stores across the country follows Mister Singhs India and PK Foods’ success in Scotmid’s Scottish Favourites competition, which helps local producers secure listings across Scotland.

Working in collaboration with Mark Singh – third generation of the Singh family – and the restaurant’s executive chef Manesh Joshi, PK Foods has scaled up the recipes while keeping the bold flavours and authentic cooking style that built their iconic reputation.

Jason Stevenson, Sales Director at PK Foods, said: “We’ve built a strong relationship with Scotmid over many years, and we understand what their customers are looking for.

“These are dishes people already know and love, so the focus was on retaining that restaurant level flavour and quality and converting it into a format that was accessible to everyone, all whilst working hard to stay true to what makes Mister Singh’s so popular.”

Satty Singh, on behalf of Mister Singh’s, added: “We’ve been feeding Glasgow for decades and have welcomed some very familiar faces through our doors, with people travelling from all over to visit us.

“Bringing our curries to Scotmid shelves across the country is a proud moment for our family and a chance to share our heritage with even more communities.”

Scotmid’s Scottish Favourites initiative, delivered in partnership with Scotland Food & Drink, champions local producers and helps bring new products to customers.

Steve Addison, Local Sourcing Manager at Scotmid, said: “Scottish Favourites is about championing the best of local producers, and this is a great example of that.

“Mister Singh’s has built a fantastic reputation in Glasgow, and we’re proud to help bring those much-loved flavours to customers across Scotland through our stores.”

Mister Singh’s Chicken Bhoona and South Indian Garlic Chilli (350g) will be available in 120 Scotmid stores from 6 May 2026, priced at £4.95 and will feature on an Any 2 For £8 launch promotion until 26th May.

From field to fridge: East Lothian dairy leads cottage cheese crusade in Scotmid stores

Cottage cheese is making a comeback and Scotmid is at the forefront, offering two new products in stores nationwide now.

The humble dairy staple taking over social media feeds and shopping lists alike, has recently gained online traction amongst health-conscious consumers for being a high protein, versatile ingredient that can be used in a wealth of creations including whipped pancakes, flatbreads and even ice cream.

For one East Lothian dairy farm though, cottage cheese is nothing new. Yester Farm Dairies – a third-generation family business run by husband-and-wife team Simon and Jackie McCreery – has been perfecting recipes over the last decade.  

The award-winning duo, who first began pasteurising their milk in 2003 to supply milk and cream locally before expanding by converting farm buildings into modern cheese and yoghurt making facilities in 2015, today offer one of the only on-farm dairy processors in Scotland.

The journey from cow to product is measured in metres, not miles, with milk from its herd of over 350 cows produced on-site and ready for shelves within just two days. This “field to fridge” approach helps maximise freshness, reduce food miles and ensure full traceability — helping the business stand out in Scotmid’s Scottish Favourites competition.

As a result, Yester Farm Dairies will now see its products stocked across Scotland, marking the biggest retail rollout in the family business’s history and reaching 120 Scotmid stores.

Simon McCreery, at Yester Farm Dairies, said: “We’re incredibly proud to have won a Scottish Favourites place and to now be launching into Scotmid stores across Scotland.

It’s a fantastic opportunity for us — and we’re excited to see more customers discovering our products.”

Scotmid’s Scottish Favourites initiative, delivered in partnership with Scotland Food & Drink, helps local producers grow by giving them access to retail shelves and new audiences.

Steve Addison, Local Sourcing Manager at Scotmid, said: “Scottish Favourites is all about backing great local producers, and Yester Farm Dairies stood out for both quality and freshness.

“At a time when demand for high-protein foods is growing, it’s fantastic to be able to offer customers a locally produced option that’s made with care and reaches shelves quickly.

“Supporting businesses like Yester Farm is a key part of what we do — strengthening local supply chains while giving customers access to great Scottish produce.”

Customers can purchase Yester Farm’s cottage cheese and soft cheese in Scotmid stores across Scotland from 15th April , priced at £1.79 for 300g and £2.19 for 300g respectively.

New Scottish Favourites products heading to Edinburgh Scotmid stores

Six Scottish food and drink suppliers are celebrating after being named winners of Scotmid’s Scottish Favourites competition, securing the opportunity to have their products listed in Scotmid stores in 2026. 

Launched as part of Scottish Food & Drink September 2025, the competition is designed to support local producers by raising their profile, opening routes into retail, and bringing innovative Scottish food and drink products to convenience shoppers in Edinburgh.

The recent competition, once again run in partnership with Scotland Food & Drink, attracted a strong field of entries from producers based across Scotland, reflecting the continued strength, diversity and quality of the nation’s food and drink sector. 

With “Innovation” set as the theme, producers were challenged to submit products that offered something new, imaginative and distinctive. From retro-inspired favourites and globally influenced flavours to on-trend dairy and healthier snacking options, this year’s winning line-up highlights the breadth of ideas currently shaping the market. 

Following a rigorous judging process, six suppliers were selected as winners. The successful suppliers, their locations and winning products are: 

  • The Gin Bothy (Angus) – Scottish Chilli Jam and Scottish Strawberry Jam 
  • Cosmo (Midlothian) – Margherita Pizzini and BBQ Chicken Pizzini Twin Pack 
  • Nudie Snacks (Glasgow) – Soured Cream & Chive and American BBQ Sweet Potato Chips 
  • PK Foods / Mr Singh’s (Glasgow) – Chicken Bhuna Curry and South Indian Garlic Chicken Curry 
  • Yester Farm Dairies (East Lothian) – Cottage Cheese and Luxury Soft Cheese 
  • Nakey Bakey (Fife) – Mixed Berry and Strawberry Mango Fusion Granola 

Each winning supplier will receive a Scotmid listing, with products expected to launch across selected stores during 2026, subject to final ranging and rollout plans. 

Steven Addison, Local Sourcing Manager at Scotmid, said: “Our Scottish Favourites competition has grown year on year and is now a recognised route to market for Scottish producers. As ever, selecting the winners was a real challenge, with a high standard of creativity and quality across the entries. 

“We’re proud to support local suppliers and help innovative brands take the next step in their retail journey. This year’s winners demonstrate just how dynamic and forward-thinking the sector is, and we’re looking forward to working with them as their products launch in our stores in 2026.” 

Angus Bell at Scotland Food & Drink, added: “Scottish Favourites continues to provide an important opportunity for ambitious producers to engage with retail and showcase their products to a wider audience. 

“Scotmid’s commitment to local sourcing and to championing innovation plays a valuable role in supporting the growth of Scotland’s food and drink sector and Scotland Food and Drink are delighted to have partnered with Scotmid again.  

“The winners combine creativity with commercial appeal. Whether reinventing familiar favourites or responding to emerging consumer demands, these businesses are helping to grow our brilliant food and drink sector in Scotland”  

Scotmid and Scotland Food & Drink would like to thank all producers who entered the competition and congratulate the winning suppliers on their success. 

Edinburgh shoppers offered 10p round-up to support dementia care

SMALL CHANGE, BIG DIFFERENCE: SCOTMID PARTNERS WITH PENNIES FOR DEMENTIA SUPPORT

Scotmid has introduced a quick and easy way for customers to support people living with dementia, through a new partnership with the charity Pennies, trusted leader in micro-donations. The digital micro-donation option is now available in all Scotmid and Semichem stores across Edinburgh.

Customers paying by card, contactless or digital wallet can now choose to add a 10p donation to their purchase, with donations supporting Scotmid’s annual charity partner, Alzheimer Scotland. These small contributions will help fund vital services for people and families affected by dementia, supporting care, advice and community initiatives across Scotland.

The initiative builds on Scotmid’s long-standing commitment to supporting local causes and offers a simple, sustainable way for shoppers to give back in a cashless world.

This year’s partnership with Alzheimer Scotland, announced in October, will be the first to benefit. The charity also aims to reach younger audiences with information on brain health through school and community engagement.

Karen Scott, Scotmid Chief Executive, said: “We know how much our members, colleagues and customers care about supporting local people.

“This partnership with Pennies gives everyone the chance to help in a way that feels easy and affordable. It’s community compassion in action, 10p at a time.”

Alison Hutchinson CBE, CEO of Pennies said: “We’re thrilled to welcome Scotmid to the Pennies family.

“As Scotland’s largest independent co-operative, Scotmid has deep roots in its communities – and this partnership will enable thousands of people to make a meaningful contribution every day.

“Together, we’re harnessing the power of digital giving to reach more people, in more places, for more causes. Just £10 in micro-donations could provide a whole class of 25 children with a brain-health handbook on how to look after their amazing brains. Thank you!”

Scotmid’s collaboration with Pennies reflects its ongoing commitment to finding innovative ways for customers and members to support the communities they live in. Pennies’ micro-donation solution will continue to be used across future charity partnerships, helping causes benefit from collective generosity.

New charity partnership to take action against dementia with giant inflatable brain tour

An exciting new charity partnership will help take action against dementia across Scotland and beyond with a giant inflatable brain tour as part of an innovative brain health programme.

Alzheimer Scotland has been selected as the Charity Partner for 2025/26 by Scotmid, which is Scotland’s largest independent co-operative and includes Semichem, Lake & Dales Coop, Scotmid Funerals and Fosters Funeral Directors.

Studies indicate that up to 45% of dementia cases worldwide may be preventable, often through making simple lifestyle changes.

As part of its ambitious plans for the 12-month partnership, Alzheimer Scotland will spread this prevention message by investing in a giant, walk-through inflatable brain – named Babs the Brain in honour of the late Dame Barbara Windsor, who died in 2020 of Alzheimer’s disease.

”Babs” will embark on a Big Brain Tour of Scotland, visiting stores as well as community venues.

At each stop, people can step inside the inflatable to learn how different areas of the brain work, enjoy interactive activities, and make their own personal brain health pledge.

The partnership will raise vital funds for brain health initiatives across Scotland, while Alzheimer’s Society will provide support to reach communities in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

The partnership was officially launched at Scotmid’s HQ in Newbridge, Edinburgh, where colleagues and pupils from Hillwood Primary School were among the first to experience Babs the Brain.

Dame Barbara’s widower Scott Mitchell attended the event and has given the project his full support.

Henry Simmons, Alzheimer Scotland’s Chief Executive, said: “Alzheimer Scotland is delighted to be embarking on this charity partnership with Scotmid. We see this as the start of a shared mission to empower people of all ages to protect their brain health, reduce their risk of dementia, and help make sure that nobody faces dementia alone.

“This partnership gives us a unique opportunity to expand the work we do by finding creative ways to empower communities across Scotland, northern England and Northern Ireland to look after their brain health.

“Not only will we raise vital funds, we will also leave a lasting legacy beyond this partnership of healthier habits, stronger connections, and better awareness of dementia prevention.”

Karen Scott, Scotmid’s Chief Executive, said: “We’re truly delighted to join forces with Alzheimer Scotland. This partnership isn’t just about fundraising – it’s about coming together with our communities to create real, positive change.

“By working hand in hand, we hope to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by dementia across Scotland.”

Scott Mitchell, who was appointed People’s Champion for the Dame Barbara Windsor Dementia Goals programme, said: “Babs the Brain and the brain health prevention work Alzheimer Scotland will be doing alongside it is a wonderful legacy for Barbara and something she would be proud to put her name to.

“I have no doubt she would have treated us to one of her famous giggles for the name alone!”

Other initiatives planned for the coming year include in-store ‘brain healthy’ shopping experiences, from recipe cards to highlighting ‘brain-boosting choices’.

Funds raised will also support Alzheimer Scotland’s STARS: My Amazing Brain schools project, which brings brain health education to children and families nationwide.

Edinburgh carers’ charity awarded £5,000 by Scotmid members

Edinburgh-based charity, Care for Carers has received £5,000 in funding thanks to votes from Scotmid members.

Scotmid lets members vote for local causes with their membership cards. Care for Carers received the most support in the East.

The Community Listening Project, Pennypit Trust, Canongate Youth, Door in the Wall, and Croft Street Hub each received £1000.

Founded in 1989, Care for Carers is a voluntary organisation that supports unpaid carers of all ages and circumstances.

The charity provides emotional and practical help, from one-to-one guidance to information and signposting, as well as opportunities for carers to take time for themselves. These services enable carers to step away from their caring role, connect with others in similar situations, and recharge.

Ruth MacLennan, CEO, Care for Carers, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have been chosen by Scotmid Members for the Member Choice Award.

“This funding means we can do even more for the carers we support, including being able to offer vital respite opportunities – it will make such a difference to us to have this award.”

The Member Choice Awards complement Scotmid’s ongoing community grants and donations, which together benefit more than 1,000 organisations annually. These include youth clubs, mental health charities, food banks, and environmental programmes.

The next Member Choice Awards cycle, ending in November 2025, has shortlisted the following good causes from the east region: The Larder, Spark, Seagull Trust, Gorebridge Community Care, Forever Young Club, and Kirkliston Community Conservation Volunteers/Waste Not Want Not Community Fridge.

The winner will be announced later this year.

Learn more or apply for future rounds at: https://scotmid.coop/community-funding