BID to boost East Lothian food and drink sector

Food and drink businesses in East Lothian are looking to roll out what could be the first business improvement district (BID) of its kind, to foster the sector's growth and potentially leading to a network of similar project around Scotland.

NB Gin is among the East Lothian firms supporting the BID plans. Picture: Contributed

All eligible firms in the county are being issued with ballot papers regarding the potential East Lothian Food & Drink Business Improvement District, with organisers saying it has the support of the local authority and businesses in the area such as Belhaven Smokehouse and NB Gin.

Those behind the project added that the business plan, outlining projects to be delivered over the next five years, has received the approval of Business Improvement Districts Scotland and the Scottish Government.

Louise Elder, chair of the steering committee behind the East Lothian Food & Drink BID, said the scheme “is a great opportunity to work together and make the changes we as a sector want”.