Investment in staff training reaps rewards for Lanarkshire butcher

A Lanarkshire butcher business which recognises the value of staff training and advancement has scooped a national industry award.

Strachan Craft Butchers - which has shops in Blantyre, Larkhall and East Kilbride – has been named “Training Partner of the Year” in the Scottish Craft Butchers Training Awards 2023.
Receiving the award, delighted owner Steven Strachan said they were thrilled to be rewarded for a commitment to staff training and development which he described as “a vital investment”.
“It is vital to invest in your team and provide training, resources and opportunities to encourage growth, understanding and skills,” he said.
“It’s also important to bring the apprentices on by teaching them our own particular methods and standards,” he added. “That provides us with tailored staff and proves a sound investment.
“We’re absolutely thrilled with this award – it’s one for the whole team.”

Strachan Craft Butchers was formed six years ago and Scottish Craft Butchers training assessor Sarah Frew, nominated the business for the award, sponsored by the Scotch Butchers Club and the Scottish Qualifications Authority.

The winning nomination highlighted Strachan’s “passion and drive” to move the business forward.
“Husband and wife team Steven and Nicola Strachan are the fantastic driving force behind a great team of staff and apprentices,” said Sarah.
“They are really keen to help with staff progression and want their apprentices to succeed, helping to guide them to success,” she added.
“They are a great partner to work with and take a keen interest in ensuring their candidates are ready for my training and assessment and take an interest in what we achieve each time.”

Gordon King, Executive Manager of Scottish Craft Butchers, said the relatively young business, which employs over a dozen staff, has grown from strong foundations, part of which being their recognition of the need to develop their own talent pool.
“The business has developed a great working relationship with Sarah and together they have achieved great things, maximising the potential of each employee within the business to the benefit of all,” he said.
“Strachan Craft Butchers are very worthy winners of this national award recognising them as an outstanding training partner that is currently the best in the business.”

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For further information please contact:
PR Maureen Young on 07778-779-888
Or
Claire Simpson, Training Manager, Craft Skills Scotland on 01738-637785