Search is on for young food and drink stars

Last year’s winner was 23-year-old distiller Craig Chambers (right).

The search is on for the young stars of Scotland's food and drink sector, with entries for the Inspirational Young Person Award open now until midnight on July 3.

The award is designed to shine a light on the inspiring stories of people aged 16-26 who own, work, or study within a food and drink related business, organisation or institution in Scotland.

The winner will receive £500, with the second and third places finalists receiving £300 and £200 respectively.

A joint initiative between Scotland Food & Drink and insurer NFU Mutual, business owners can nominate their hardworking young staff members and young people running their own food or drink ventures can also nominate themselves.

The winners will be announced during Scottish Food & Drink Fortnight, which runs from September 5-20.

Mark McBrearty, NFU Mutual’s regional manager, said: “The importance of young people to Scotland’s food and drink sector cannot be overstated.

"This special award illustrates just how wide a contribution they make and how valuable their drive and innovation are to business success."

Any individual between the ages of 16 and 26 who owns, works, or studies within a food and drink related business, organisation or institution can be nominated or enter into the competition at https://www.nfumutual.co.uk/campaigns/inspirational-young-person-award-2023/

Iain Baxter, Chief Executive at Scotland Food & Drink, said: “Scotland has a proud reputation nationally and internationally for its food, drink and hospitality. Supporting the future of our sector by recognising up and coming talent is crucial to its long-term success.”