About us

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.

What we do

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.

Events & Training

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.

Membership

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.

What's New

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

Sourcing for Growth

Scotland and the rest of the UK currently import approximately 40% of the food and drink we consume. This is a significant percentage, and more so when you consider that many of these goods can be, and are, already being produced right here in Scotland. 

The Sourcing for Growth service connects food manufacturers with local producers of high-quality Scottish produce to help businesses grow, remain resilient, and navigate this evolving landscape. 

Why Consider Local Sourcing? 

Leveraging local sourcing offers a number of strategic advantages and opportunities for long-term success such as: 

  • Reducing reliance on imported goods and increasing the sourcing of locally produced food
  • Mitigating exposure to international market fluctuations 
  • Reducing environmental impact and carbon footprint through shorter supply chains and decreased transportation needs
  • Enhancing overall business resilience and security
  • Building robust local networks, ensuring a steady supply of goods and business continuity 
  • Leveraging the appeal of Scottish-sourced and Scottish-branded products
  • Diversifying and growing business and brand locally

Get Started Today 

The links below connect to a form to gather information on what you're looking to buy/sell. Click on the appropriate link below to start the process!

Searching for suppliers?

Searching for food manufacturers?

 

Sourcing for Growth is managed by SAOS in collaboration with the Scotland Food & Drink Partnership

Key contacts

Douglas Bowden-Smith

Douglas Bowden-Smith

Douglas Bowden-Smith

Project Development Executive

07435 047593 | douglas.bowden-smith@saos.coop

Alan Stevenson

Alan Stevenson

Alan Stevenson

Supply Chain Development Director

0141 5631112 | alan.stevenson@saos.coop