FOOD and drink processing businesses across Scotland are to benefit from a £70 million funding scheme designed to boost jobs and investment in the industry.
Cabinet Secretary for Food Richard Lochhead announced the Food Processing, Marketing and Co-operation (FPMC) scheme open for capital-related applications during a visit to The Breadwinner Bakery in Edinburgh during Real Bread Week as part of Scotland’s Year of Food and Drink. The bakery has previously received £20,000 via the grants scheme.
The Breadwinner, founded by Sean McVey and his wife, Lesley, in 1973, has been able to move to bigger premises and win new contracts.
Director Kris McVey said: “Since receiving our FPMC grant, our business has gone from strength to strength. The funding enabled us to move into bigger premises and win new contracts, such as the deal to supply Scotmid and Patisserie Valerie, while remaining true to our values as a 'Real Bread' Bakery.
"As a consequence, we have been able to take on 17 more staff, including two apprentices through our partnership with Bernardo’s – with many more opportunities available to us, the challenge now is to manage the growth.”
Breadwinner Bakery uses traditional craft baking methods, making all products by hand. It bakes using simple ingredients and dough starters like apple and potato, without any additives or preservatives. Its product range includes breads, sliced loaves, artisan rolls, cakes, savouries, pastries and tray bakes, as well as more unique breads with flavours such as olive and Gruyère cheese, walnut and orange, and chocolate and champagne.
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