Scotland is hungry for success in the Middle East

Twenty ambitious Scottish food and drink companies, ranging from chocolate fountain and pie producers to award-winning oil and seafood companies, are heading to the Middle East next week to showcase their products to importers, distributors and buyers from around the world. This represents the largest ever Scottish delegation at the show, supported by Scottish Development International (SDI), the international arm of Scotland’s enterprise agencies.

Susan Beattie, Head of Food and Drink at Scottish Development International, said: The Middle East is a core market for Scotland’s food and drink industry – exports to the region have increased by over 50% since 2007 to reach £166 million, with particularly strong growth in salmon, seafood, beverages and premium grocery.

“The UAE region is establishing itself as a global destination for fine dining, bringing success for Scotland’s premium producers as consumers are buying our best-loved Scottish brands and produce. We are helping businesses take advantage of these opportunities through providing market insight, making connections with buyers and distributors and supporting international strategy and skills development. We are delighted to see so many companies making the most of this year’s Gulfood exhibition.”