Foreign food market up for grabs

AG Barr sells the Irn Bru soft drink in Russia

Scottish companies will be urged to grab a slice of the multi-trillion dollar overseas food and drink market.

The message was due to be delivered at a master class at Gleneagles Hotel featuring some of Scotland's top firms.

Representatives of Irn Bru makers AG Barr and the Famous Grouse whisky brand have been sharing the secrets of their success selling products abroad.

Arbroath-based chocolate machine manufacturer Ladco was also giving a presentation at the event.

'Countless opportunities'

Food importers and regulatory authorities were also attending "A Taste of Scotland around the World".

Lena Wilson, from Scottish Enterprise, said: "Scottish food and drink produce and products have an unrivalled reputation for quality across the world and there are countless opportunities for companies of all sizes in the sector to secure new business.

"However, the sector faces very specific challenges such as the different regulatory regimes around the world which must be carefully negotiated and this conference will highlight some of the most common issues encountered.

"I think those attending will be particularly interested and inspired to hear the first hand accounts of those who have experience of selling around the world and we are very grateful to them for giving their time to pass on the lessons learnt and their tips for grabbing a share of a market which is estimated to be as high as a staggering $3 trillion."