Scotland’s experts on farmer co-ops and food industry collaboration, we work with food and farming businesses to make them more profitable, competitive, and sustainable - #workingtogether to shape the future, today.
All our work helps facilitate farmers and food and drink businesses to work together effectively. Over the years we've expanded and developed subsidiary businesses - getting the right people together and making innovative advancements - to help benefit food, farming and rural Scotland.
Developing staff capability is one of the most effective ways to improve a co-op’s performance. Check out our events and training programme - most of which are open to non co-op members too.
As a development organisation, owned by our members, we provide a range of specialist services not available elsewhere, to assist them in developing their people and their businesses. Get in touch to find out how we can help you.
See below for all the latest news, views and updates from us here at SAOS. Find all our latest videos on YouTube at: SAOS - working together in food and farming
SAOS is leading the development of sustainable, co-operative, and resilient venison supply chains in Scotland.
The Low Ground Venison Supply Chain Pilot is a collaborative project centred on low ground areas, supporting deer managers to improve infrastructure, helping to increase capacity and bring more locally-harvested venison to market.
The scheme supports improved processing capacity and supply chain development. Applicants can receive offers of up to 50% funding towards the cost of improvements for carcass handling and chilling infrastructure.
Watch our short video showing how participants have been helped by the funding:
Following the successful earlier phases of the pilot, expressions of interest and applications are now welcome for the third phase.
This Pilot Project initially launched in January 2025. Learn more about its aims to help shape the future of wild venison in Scotland and who is involved in the project.
Read about the project
Find answers to common queries about the Low Ground Venison Pilot Fund, including eligibility, funding criteria, and how to apply.
Read our FAQs
Project Manager
fergus.younger@saos.coop
Project Manager
douglas.bowden-smith@saos.coop