FOOD and drink businesses from across the Highlands and Islands and Cairngorms National Park area are today being called upon to celebrate their produce by entering the prestigious Highlands and Islands Food and Drink Awards.
Says a spokesperson: “With 2015 marked across Scotland as the Year of Food and Drink, this year’s awards look set to be higher profile than ever before. Entries are being accepted in 15 categories ranging from the Young Shining Star and Restaurant of the Year to Export and Healthier Food & Drink.
“The awards, now in their 11th year, are delivered with support from Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE).”
Chris Taylor, head of food and drink and tourism at HIE, said: “The Highlands and Islands Food and Drink Awards are an opportunity for us to showcase the natural larder of our region, which is amongst the best in the world.
“We have increased our support this year in recognition of its importance and the desire to continue growing the awards.
“Previous winners have made great use of their accolade to build their brands and reach new markets. The Year of Food and Drink is the perfect time for businesses to apply and once again prove that our produce and producers are world-class”.
Gordon & MacPhail, one of the UK’s leading independent wine, spirit and whisky wholesalers, is headline sponsor.
Stephen Rankin, UK sales director at Gordon & MacPhail, said: “We’re delighted to be continuing our sponsorship of the Highland & Islands Food & Drink Awards and play our part in supporting an industry that is a key economic driver for the area.
“Across the world, our food and drink is recognised as some of the very best and these awards play a valuable role in continuing to raise standards.”
Full details of all the award categories and how to enter can be found at www.hifoodanddrinkawards.com.
The deadline for entries is Friday 8th May. The shortlisted finalists will be announced on Friday 26th June with winners announced on Friday 23rd October at the awards ceremony at Kingsmills Hotel in Inverness.
For more information, images or interviews contact Rebecca Harvey or Martha Bryce on 0131 225 7205; Rebecca@tastecommunications.co.uk martha@tastecommunications.co.uk
ENDS
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Highlands and Islands Enterprise contact details…
Contact: HIE Communications
Phone: 01463244235
Email: communications@hient.co.uk
Website: http://bit.ly/1L1cC43
