The Scottish wholesale industry has been praised for its contribution to the country’s economy and food system.
Speaking at the Scottish Wholesale Association (SWA) Conference, Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Land Reform and Islands, Mairi Gougeon, acknowledged the vital role played by the sector.
“You are a cornerstone of our national goals – from economic growth to sustainability to community wellbeing. Wholesalers are the essential connectors – linking our brilliant producers with retailers, hospitality businesses, public sector institutions, and communities across the country. From the heart of our cities to the most remote island communities, your reach is vast, and your impact is profound.”
She added: “The economic contribution of this sector is significant – not just in terms of turnover and jobs, but in the resilience and reliability that your collective efforts bring to Scotland’s food and drink infrastructure. And at the centre of this work stands the Scottish Wholesale Association – a powerful voice and a trusted partner for the industry.”
Gougeon also participated in a panel discussion as part of the event’s ‘Creating Value and Building Resilience through Sustainable Local Supply Chains’ session which explored the importance of a resilient supply chain, the opportunities for SWA members, and heard key advice from those who have benefited from the training sessions held as part of the ‘Delivering Growth Through Wholesale’ programme.
During the conference, the SWA unveiled a new purpose, mission and vision – along with a new logo and branding.
Chief executive Colin Smith outlined how the organisation’s purpose “is to be the invaluable voice of Scotland’s food and drink wholesalers and trusted partner of the food and drink supply chain, the Scottish Parliament, and Scottish Government”.
Smith said: “Our mission is to protect and advance our members and the sector, serving as the gateway to Scotland’s food and drink supply chain. We speak with knowledge, honesty and integrity, always placing our people at the heart of everything we do.
“We aim to be the driving force behind a well-connected, skilled and sustainable local wholesale food and drink supply chain.”
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