Promoting Scotch Lamb PGI

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has announced £200,000 of new funding to support Quality Meat Scotland’s 2018 Scotch Lamb PGI promotional campaign.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon with Jim McLaren MBE, QMS Chairman and (LtoR) Martin Kennedy, NFU Scotland; Sarah Mackie, QMS Board; John Fyall, Chairman of National Sheep Association Scotland (NSA); John Sleigh, President Turriff Show; Zoey Symington, National Sheep Association Scotland (NSA) Next Generation Young Ambassador; Charles Raeburn, Owner of Forbes Raeburn Butchers and Son in Huntly; and Jennifer Durno, AJ Catering.

Funding for 2018 campaign confirmed.

The sheep sector plays a significant part in Scotland’s red meat industry, which is worth £892 million to Scotland.

The First Minister confirmed the funding as she barbecued Scotch Lamb at the Turriff Show with young farmers and local butchers. She said:

“The food and drink sector plays an important part in Scotland’s economy so it is important we promote our premium produce.

“The strength of our farming industry would not be possible without the dedication and commitment of the farmers who work tirelessly to produce high quality meat.

“That hard work and premium product is recognised by the protection given by the EU to the Scotch Lamb brand and we will be working hard to continue that protection in the future.

“I’m pleased we could support this year’s campaign which will help encourage consumers to buy Scotch Lamb as part of their regular shopping.”

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon with Jim McLaren, Chairman of Quality Meat Scotland

Jim McLaren, Quality Meat Scotland`s Chairman, said:

"Today`s announcement by the First Minister is fantastic news for the Scottish sheep industry and it`s a great boost for our producers.
"This additional funding will enhance our comprehensive marketing and public relations Scotch Lamb PGI campaign, which is due to launch at the end of August.

"The eight-week campaign will spread the word to Scottish consumers about the quality, taste and versatility of Scotch Lamb - the perfect mid-week meal."

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon with (LtoR) Jennifer Durno, AJ Catering; Charles Raeburn, Forbes Raeburn and Son Butchers in Huntly; Zoey Symington National Sheep Association Scotland (NSA) Next Generation Young Ambassador; John Sleigh Turriff Show President and Jim McLaren MBE, QMS Chairman.