Lochhead launches food procurement guide

The guide has been produced by the Scottish Agricultural Organisation Society (SAOS) and Scotland Food & Drink with the support of the Scottish Government.

Schools, colleges, hospitals and prisons are being encouraged to look at how to make their procurement activity more accessible to small and medium sized suppliers, which could mean a wealth of fresh opportunities in the £130 million per year market.

Speaking at the official launch in Perth, Rural Affairs Secretary Richard Lochhead said Scotland was rich in top quality produce, and it was only right that schools and hospitals made the most of having such a ‘wonderful natural larder’ on their doorstep.

“This guide provides practical guidance to businesses interested in getting a foothold in selling quality food and drink to the public sector. It will help dispel any notion that these contracts are off limits or too complex for smaller-sized food producers and manufacturing businesses.

“Food is not just a commodity. It affects our health and our environment. That is why we firmly support sustainable public procurement.”

Alan Stevenson, supply chain development director at SAOS said the guide, along with a helpline, advisory support and learning workshops would help companies understand what the requirements were to winning public procurement contracts.

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