SWA supply chain project moves into new phase as sector seeks local sourcing opportunities

As the Scottish Wholesale Association (SWA) ramps up its commitment to working with the wholesale sector to identify local sourcing opportunities for wholesalers and local producers – helping them to access new markets – its new Wholesale Local Food Champion training programme has been officially launched.

Following the successful launch of its local sourcing project – Delivering Growth Through Wholesale (DGTW) – in 2021, a collaboration with SAOS and Scotland Food & Drink, the SWA Wholesale Local Food Champion programme encourages Scotland’s wholesalers to appoint an individual to take responsibility for shaping the local sourcing strategy within their business.

Colin Smith, SWA chief executive, said: “We’ve had a tremendous response from our members and suppliers to our DGTW programme and we thank the Scottish Government for providing funding to further extend the Scottish sourcing opportunity for local producers selling through the wholesale route to market.

“Our goal is to see wholesalers nominate at least one individual within their business to be trained to become a Wholesale Local Food Champion. These Champions will then have an excellent knowledge and understanding of the importance of a strong, local food and drink supply chain – and become a point of contact for suppliers to start engaging with your business.

“Comprehensive training will also include one-to-one mentoring support with each Champion receiving a certificate of completion and Wholesale Local Food Champion marque to help producers easily identify individuals/wholesalers that can potentially help support their business.”

Registration of the SWA Wholesale Local Food Champion training programme, which is fully funded and supported by the Scottish Government, is now open. It closes on 19 March with the first 20 cohorts undertaking their training over two half days on 23-24 March.