To kick off Scotland’s Year of Food and Drink 2015, Highlands and Islands Enterprise showcased the best of the region’s produce at the London Boat Show. Exhibiting alongside Sail Scotland, the marketing body for sailing tourism, HIE held tastings of local produce such as salmon, mussels, cheese, oatcakes, tablet, whisky and craft beer.

 
With the food and drink industry in the Highlands and Islands contributing £1 billion to the economy annually and supporting 32,000 jobs, HIE’s attendance at the London Boat Show aimed to raise the profile of Highlands and Islands produce even further.
 
Anna Allan, Head of Business Events, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, said: 
“Food and drink is a booming industry sector for the Highlands and Islands, with home sales up 30% since 2007 and overseas sales up 50%. Whisky is leading the charge – making it Scotland’s leading export. We were delighted to be collaborating with Sail Scotland to bring Highlands and Islands produce to this high profile event in London and help our supported businesses to reach new markets and increase their revenues. The London Boat Show is a great place to showcase the Highland’s local produce to a global audience.”
 
Muckle Media supported HIE’s attendance at the London Boat Show through media relations, with coverage secured in the likes of The Arran Advertiser and Strathspey Herald. Following the event, a summary was also included in HIE’s February newsletter.
 
Image: Highlands and Islands Enterprise