Food and drink businesses from across Scotland are celebrating after being named as finalists for the Scotland Food & Drink Excellence Awards 2026, with 64 finalists representing 48 businesses across 20 categories.
Now in its 25th year, the annual awards recognise the highest quality of produce alongside leading suppliers, individuals and companies across the sector. Winners will be announced at the industry’s flagship awards ceremony on Thursday, 24 September 2026 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Glasgow, hosted by Saturday Kitchen presenter and MasterChef: The Professionals judge Matt Tebbutt.
Each product entered has been rigorously tasted and assessed by an expert panel drawn from retail, foodservice and hospitality. Alongside the product categories, a series of business awards will spotlight excellence in sustainability, innovation, growth, food tourism and employer practice. The Young Talent of the Year award will also highlight the next generation of Scotland’s food and drink professionals.
This year’s shortlist reflects the breadth and strength of Scotland’s food and drink landscape. Recognised businesses range from major producers including Simon Howie Foods, Mackie’s of Scotland and Angus Soft Fruits, to artisan names such as Deerness Distillery, Salar Smokehouse and Eviedale Bakehouse.
Iain Baxter, Chief Executive at Scotland Food & Drink, said: “As we mark 25 years of The Excellence Awards, this year promises to be a standout occasion for one of the country’s most successful and dynamic industries.
“What makes this shortlist particularly exciting is the range it represents. This year the judges were struck by the outstanding creativity, innovation and provenance on display across every category. From island distilleries crafting spirits rooted in the landscapes that surround them, to food technology businesses redefining what’s possible in Scottish production.
“Congratulations to everyone who has made the shortlist, and best of luck on the night. The ambition and ingenuity on show is a genuine reflection of where our sector is headed.”
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For more than two decades, The Excellence Awards has brought together Scotland’s leading producers with key decision-makers and influencers from across the industry. Built on people, passion and perseverance, the event provides a platform to celebrate achievements over the past year while championing the innovation shaping the sector’s future.
The full shortlist of finalists can be viewed at foodanddrink.scot/events-and-membership/the-excellence-awards/2026-finalists, with tickets for the awards ceremony also available online.
