Wholesaler targets major deals in Dubai

JW Filshill International, the Glasgow-based craft beer and spirits wholesaler, is targeting expansion into food exports amid rising demand from customers in China and the Middle East.

The wholesaler will sponsor an event at Jumeirah Emirates Towers to promote Scots produce. Picture: Dubai Event Photography

The family-run firm is looking to forge a series of “major export deals” on behalf of Scottish craft food and drink producers during this week’s Gulfood exposition at the World Trade Fair in Dubai.

JW Filshill will exhibit a range of Scots produce at Gulfood, which is expecting around 100,000 delegates from almost 200 countries, and will also sponsor a VIP drinks reception for Scottish Development International at the Jumeirah Emirates Towers tomorrow evening.

Chris Miller, group commercial director, said: “Moving to food products was a natural progression for JW Filshill International.

“Our UK arm distributes both food and drink, and for the international arm to follow has always been part of our long-term strategy.”

Miller said that he and fellow director Simon Hannah were already in “advance conversations” with retailers and importers for the products, adding: “These high-profile trade events enable us to promote Scotland’s craft producers, and put our country’s world-class craft products into the hands of key influencers, buyers and distributors.”