Scotland’s experts on farmer co-ops and food industry collaboration, we provide a range of specialist information, development and consultancy services to help businesses work together more effectively. #workingtogether we grow
Now more than ever, it’s vital for farmers and food and drink businesses to work together more effectively - all of SAOS’s work centres on facilitating this.
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.
Latest news, views and updates from us here at SAOS.
16 February 2023
Patrick Hughes, Manager of the Scottish Agri Export Hub, reflects on his trip to last week's Fruit Logistica in Messe, Berlin.
"Fruit Logistica is one of the world’s largest international trade shows for fresh produce fruit and takes place in early February in Berlin. The 3-day event attracts importers and exporters from 86 countries, all seeking to meet with their existing client base whilst exploring opportunities with new customers.
After facing significant travel disruption due to stubborn fog refusing to vacate the Heathrow area, the Scottish Agri Export Hub finally arrived in a freezing Berlin to provide a base for Scottish exporters to meet their customers and provide a sanctuary for the hectic few days ahead.
The stand, in Hall 21, was part of a collection of UK-based businesses, expertly organised and administered by the Commercial Horticulture Association. The hall itself wasn’t part of the main thoroughfare but located off to the side and proved an ideal spot for exporters to meet in relative calm (or as good as you're going to get whilst at busy trade show).
In addition to the numerous meetings on stand by Scottish exporters, many visitors came onto the stand curious to know more about fresh agri products that could be exported from Scotland. It was surprising how many were unaware of the range of fresh produce grown in Scotland; there is definitely potential in creating informative material in advance of future international trade shows.
With the show now concluded, our time in Berlin has come to an end. We left at the same time as the frost and ice was replaced with a warmer Spring breeze. It has been invaluable re-connecting with an international audience and, irrespective of the challenges facing the sector, there are endless opportunities for export. We now need to build on our presence at Fruit Logistica and work towards a more consistent and informative offering in future years where we communicate the key attributes of our Scottish agri exports and continue to enhance our international reputation."
Scottish Seed Potato Exporters Return to World Stage (saos.coop)