Larder Exclusive
The Ideal Home Show Scotland, sponsored by EcoFlow, returns to Glasgow’s SEC from tomorrow, 23 until Sunday 26 May 2025, promising its most inspiring and interactive edition yet.
This year’s event is packed with fresh features, a vibrant celebration of Scottish food and design, and many opportunities for visitors to discover, learn, and be entertained.
The Eat & Drink Festival
Every ticket to the Ideal Home Show Scotland includes free entry to the Eat & Drink Festival, celebrating Scotland’s culinary talent. This year features:
The Scottish Organic Producers Association (SOPA): Showcasing organic foods and drinks that meet UK standards for Scottish farmers.
The Guild of Fine Food’s Great Taste Marketplace: Meet makers of award-winning products and sample innovative items like fermented peppercorns from Bow Tree Farm, pressed ginger concentrate from Root to Ginger, and pastries from The Lady and the Bear in Edinburgh.
Speaking to Larder Magazine, Christabel from the Guild of Fine Food explained the importance of bringing the Great Taste Marketplace to Glasgow:
“It’s an excellent way of getting consumers to try things and get those producers in front of people.
“All the food and drink has gone through a rigorous judging process, so visitors know they’re tasting the best. It also gives smaller producers a real chance to stand out, especially if they don’t have big marketing budgets.
“Our research found that 85% of UK consumers recognise the Great Taste award, and many are more likely to buy a product because of it.”
The Great Taste judging process is renowned for its fairness and rigour. Blind tastings and a diverse panel of experts ensure that only the most exceptional products receive stars.
“Only about 1.5% of entries achieve the coveted three-star award, making it a true mark of excellence.”
Celebrating Local Food: Chef Jak O’Donnell and the Power of Simplicity
The Eat & Drink Festival’s chef stage will be buzzing with live demonstrations from Scotland’s top culinary talents.
Chef Jak O’Donnell spoke with Larder Magazine, and she will be focusing on simple, seasonal Scottish seafood:
“I love showing people how to make the most of Scottish seafood and vegetables, hot smoked salmon, Scottish asparagus, charred courgettes.
“My philosophy is to keep it simple, let the ingredients shine, and give people the confidence to try new things at home.”
O’Donnell is passionate about encouraging visitors to support local fishermen and producers, highlighting the unique quality and sustainability of Scottish seafood:
“We’re never far from the sea in Scotland, so we have access to incredible seafood.
“I always encourage people to buy directly from local fishermen when possible.
“It’s about supporting small producers and appreciating the freshness and quality you get from local catch.”
She also praised the festival’s role in giving visibility to small businesses:
“Shows like this are a brilliant pathway for small businesses to be seen and heard. It creates awareness, helps them build a following, and connects them with new customers.”
Advice for Visitors
Both Christabel and Chef Jak O’Donnell encourage visitors to engage with producers and chefs:
“Go and talk to the producers. Don’t be intimidated. Ask questions, try new things, and learn about the stories behind the products. You might discover something you love.”
“Keep it simple, and don’t be afraid to try. Use recipes as guidelines, experiment with what’s in season, and build confidence by repeating dishes you enjoy.
“Scottish ingredients are some of the best in the world. Let them speak for themselves.”
What’s New for 2025?
This spring, the Lifestyle section of the show expands with three exciting new areas:
Spring Clean Pavilion: Find the latest cleaning products and organisational tools to refresh your home.
Pets Corner: Discover unique products and expert advice for your pets, celebrating them as part of modern family life.
Beauty Alley: Explore new beauty products, services, and tips to enhance your self-care routine.
The Ideal Living exhibition, curated by Spoke Studio, showcases Scottish-made furniture, lighting, and textiles, highlighting sustainability and craftsmanship.
Pagazzi Lighting, the UK’s leading independent lighting specialist, sponsors the Interiors section, featuring elegant ceiling lights and designer-inspired mirrors.
With these new features and insights into Scottish design, food, and innovation, the Ideal Home Show Scotland 2025 is set to be an exciting experience.
Whether you’re looking to transform your home, sample award-winning produce, or simply enjoy a great day out, the SEC Glasgow is the place to be from 23 to 26 May.
Catch Jak O’Donnell and Christabel Cairns at Ideal Home Show Scotland at SEC, Glasgow this May. The Ideal Home Show Scotland brings together 100s of brands to shop from, live talks from top celebrities, the latest technology, and fresh ideas from our team of experts.
Tickets also include free entry to The Eat & Drink Festival. For more information visit: www.idealhomeshowscotland.co.uk
