Wholesalers across Scotland are getting involved in the SWA’s Wholesale Local Food Champion programme, which is supported by the Scottish government.
SWA members have identified 14 individuals within their business to lead the charge in identifying local sourcing opportunities, working with Scottish producers to help them access new markets.
The Wholesale Local Food Champion project, an extension of the SWA’s successful Delivering Growth Through Wholesale (DGTW) producer initiative – a collaboration with SAOS and Scotland Food & Drink, aims to encourage Scotland’s wholesalers to identify individuals who collectively take responsibility for shaping the local sourcing strategy within their business.
As part of the wider DGTW programme, 100 producers have participated in workshops designed to help improve and encourage engagement between Scottish producers and wholesalers, in a market worth £2.9bn to the Scottish economy.
The fifth round of the DGTW workshops will take place on 23-24 August, aimed at producers of all sizes, from new start-ups to established businesses and those who need greater understanding and knowledge of the Scottish wholesale channel. The programme provides producers with tools and information to help them maximise opportunities within the wholesale industry.
Colin Smith, SWA Chief Executive, said: “The DGTW programme has really struck a chord with producers and wholesalers alike, and it’s been hugely satisfying to see producers gain a much better understanding of the scale of the wholesale industry, how it works, and the benefits and opportunities it can deliver for producers of all sizes.
“For wholesalers, the Local Food Champion programme enables them to tell producers about their commitment to local sourcing, what they are looking for, how they operate, and how to maximise sales once a listing is agreed.”
John Forteith, chair of the SWA DGTW steering group, added: “There’s a huge opportunity here to change the narrative – it’s about differentiating your business as wholesalers and producers alike take on board the benefits of range, quality and service.
“It’s not just about price – it’s about changing the conversation with producers saying ‘the wholesale channel is an untapped opportunity for us’ and wholesalers saying ‘local producers can add value and interest to our business’.”
The SWA is also in the process of producing a wholesale directory that will enable producers to find wholesalers that best fit their business.
