Over 40 farms participated in the inaugural 2024 M&S Steak Competition, held as part of the prestigious ‘live and carcase’ Premier Meat Exhibition at ABP’s Bridge of Allan site on November 9.
The Scottish National Fatstock Club’s event, now in its 31st year, has enjoyed consistent support from M&S since its inception.
“It seemed fitting, given M&S’s longstanding involvement in this much-loved gathering, to recognise the quality of the beef being showcased,” said Elaine Willis of ABP.
The competition featured two steak categories: Best Aberdeen Angus Steak and Best Sirloin Steak, representing all breeds. All steaks entered were sourced exclusively from M&S Select Farms. Each entry underwent rigorous ‘blind’ judging by eight members of M&S’s product development and technical teams.
Steaks were assessed on their raw appearance, and when cooked, on flavour, succulence, texture, and aroma. A professional chef prepared the steaks on-site, ensuring uniform cooking methods to eliminate any potential bias.
The coveted title for Best Aberdeen Angus Steak was awarded to Messrs T R Bennie of Oxhill Farm, Buchlyvie, with the runner-up prize going to Rumblelaw Farms, Duns.
In the Core Steak category, the winner was John R Graham of Raecruick Farm, Auchtermuchty, with runner-up honors going to J D Jack Wester Newburn, Leven. Notably, all winning farms are longstanding suppliers to ABP’s Bridge of Allan site.
Steve McLean, M&S’s Head of Agriculture and Fisheries, emphasized the importance of the competition in strengthening the connection between farmers and consumers while promoting sales of premium lamb and beef.
He highlighted the premium tiers of M&S’s beef offerings, which include the Wagyu line, mid-premium Aberdeen Angus, and their CORE range.
Commenting on M&S’s partnership with ABP, McLean said: “M&S values the relationship with ABP because they have invested in the Scottish red meat sector, and they share our values.”
As part of their recognition, all competition winners and runners-up received a pack of their winning steak and the full primal cut to take home.
