New Scottish Dairy Brand Unveiled

Consumers were introduced to the new brand at the Royal Highland Show, where the First Minister was joined by Richard Lochhead, Rural Affairs Secretary.

The brand has been designed to increase the profile Scottish dairy in the premium sector at home and overseas, and is part of the Scottish Government’s plans to boost the dairy industry following a difficult period for farmers.

The brand, developed by the Scottish Dairy Growth Board, headed up by Paul Grant, chairman of jam company Mackays, will be added to dairy products including butter and cheese.

Nicola Sturgeon, First Minister said, “As one of the greatest agricultural showcases in the world, it is fitting that this new Scottish dairy trademark has been unveiled at the Royal Highland Show.

“Scottish food and drink exports are booming – valued at more than £5.1 billion last year. Scotch beef, salmon and shellfish are recognised the world over for their excellence and Scottish provenance. People recognise the Scottish brand, they associate the country with quality food and drink and clearly other Scottish sectors, such as dairy, can benefit from that too.

“I want to put the spotlight firmly on our fantastic produce for retailers in Scotland and buyers from around the globe. This new brand will help consumers support Scottish producers and help in marketing our excellent produce abroad.

“The dairy sector has had a difficult time and I want to assure farmers that we are doing everything we can to help them through the recent reductions in milk prices, and I hope our newly established Scottish Dairy Brand will play a part in that.”

Richard Lochhead, Rural Affairs Secretary said, “The dairy sector is vitally important to Scotland and the Scottish Dairy Brand is all about added value – it highlights there is so much more to the sector than just milk alone.

“The dairy sector’s future is of real importance to Scotland – that is why I am calling for country of origin labelling to be made mandatory at EU level, with the flexibility to use labels such as ‘Made in Scotland’.

“The Scottish Government is committed to the sector and doing all it can to support our dairy farmers – including providing additional funding support to dairy farmers on Bute and agreeing to provide funding of £400,000 to Campbeltown Creamery.”