Entries open for refreshed 2026 North East Scotland Food & Drink Awards

Entries are now open for the 2026 North East Scotland Food & Drink Awards, with a refreshed format designed to better reflect the strength, innovation and commercial success of the region’s food and drink sector.

Delivered by Opportunity North East (ONE) in partnership with Aberdeenshire Council, the awards celebrate excellence across the industry – from primary producers to manufacturers and brand-builders – while creating new opportunities for businesses to raise their profile and develop trade connections.

For 2026, the awards programme has been streamlined with updated categories that place product quality, innovation and commercial success at the heart of the judging criteria. Participation is free, with entries open until 6 April.

This year’s winners will benefit from a new national showcase opportunity at the Royal Highland Show, where category winners will have the chance to exhibit and sell their products within Scotland’s Larder as part of the ONE SeedPod stand.

The opportunity coincides with Aberdeenshire’s role as the spotlight region in the Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland Presidential Initiative for 2025/26, providing a strong platform to showcase north east producers to buyers and consumers from across the UK.

Jennifer Craw MBE, Chief Executive of Opportunity North East, said: “The North East Scotland Food & Drink Awards celebrate business leaders and entrepreneurs across the region. The awards recognise innovative products and businesses — from primary producers to manufacturers and brand-builders.

“This year we are supporting the Aberdeenshire Presidency at the Royal Highland Show with a stand for ONE SeedPod in Scotland’s Larder where the winners and finalists from the north east can reach a national audience. Good luck to all the applicants.”

Read the full exclusive in the Press and Journal here