Making the most of Scotland's rich larder

HOTELS and restaurants are being urged to "make the most of the nation's rich natural larder" and source more of their ingredients from local suppliers.

The call comes from the organisers of ScotHot, the nation's largest trade show for the hospitality sector.

Research published by Tourism Intelligence Scotland found that visitors would spend an extra 7 per cent on food and drink if they knew it was produced locally.

This would equate to an extra 800 million a year for tourism businesses.

For the first time, trade body Scotland Food & Drink will take out at stand at the ScotHot show on 28 February to promote Scottish brands.

Companies already signed up for the stand include Walkers Shortbread, Deeside Smokehouse and Stoats Porridge Bars.

Smaller producers - including Summer Harvest Oils and Galloway Lodge Preserves - will also take part.

Fiona Richmond, from Scotland Food & Drink, said: "Our cafes, hotels and restaurants have an essential role to play in promoting the provenance and authenticity of our food and drink.

"Working and exhibiting together at ScotHot gives these smaller producers the opportunity to get their products in front of the industries' key decision-makers and buyers, in addition to providing a united front that highlights the wide variety and quality of products available on our doorstep."