SCOTTISH BUTCHERS SHOP OF THE YEAR

Pauls Quality Butchers, Kilsyth were named Scottish Butchers Shop of the Year for 2007 at a glitzy presentation ceremony held at Claridges in London on 20th November.

Paul Conway used to work in the shop when he was a teenager now he owns the business selling quality meat and added value products at value for money prices.

In introducing the awards ceremony Ed Bedlington, Editor of the Meat Trades Journal said in recognition of the hard work that goes on in the butchery business:-

"Butchers have faced competition and barriers from all quarters. From Government in the form of legislation and regulation. From Supermarkets opening smaller and ever more targeted stores on your doorsteps.

"Despite all this the butchery business thrives. Innovation, flair and sheer business acumen are all present in the finalists here today.

"During the judging we have been astonished by the diversity within our sector and the imagination and skills on display. In many ways they point the way to a bright future. Added value is more and more important, butchers are really beginning to target their offer to meet consumers demands.

"More and more emphasis is being put on training and employment standards or ways of attracting younger people into the industry.

"These awards really are our chance to shout about how great an industry this is and highlight the best businesses in the country."

Scottish Finalists for the award sponsored by Quality Meat Scotland were:-

T A Shaw, Dalkeith - attractive fresh meat display within Dobbies Garden Centre.

John Lawson, Uphall - described as an Aladdin's Cave of added value delights with two thirds of the display devoted to ready to eat food.

Pauls Quality Butchers, Kilsyth - a business with good year on year growth during the five years in ownership of Paul Conway.

Last year’s UK and Scottish winner Simon Howie from Perth believes butchers should enter the awards as they offer a brilliant marketing and life-changing opportunity. “It is something that helps you differentiate yourself from your competitors and supermarkets.”

The UK title for Butchers Shop of the Year in 2007 went to Jackson's Butchers in 9 Main Street, Ballynure, Ballyclare, Co Antrim, Northern Ireland.

In the Butchers Plus category Scottish finalists David Stein, Bathgate were pipped for the UK title by Eynons of St Clears in Wales.