Food & Drink Sector Survey – Insights and Funding Reminder

Johnston Carmichael publishes an annual survey of the food and drink sector, capturing views from businesses across Scotland on current conditions, priorities and investment plans. This year’s responses suggest that while longer‑term growth remains important, many businesses are taking a cautious approach in the face of ongoing cost pressures and labour challenges.

More detail from the survey and our wider sector insight is available here:
https://johnstoncarmichael.com/industry-experience/food-drink/food-drink-insights

Key themes from the survey include:

• Continued focus on capital investment to support growth and efficiency
• Rising costs and recruitment challenges influencing decision‑making
• Ongoing interest in strengthening processing capability, alongside innovation and sustainability
• The importance of external funding in enabling investment projects to proceed

Food & Drink Processing Grant – 2026 Scheme

The Scottish Government’s Food & Drink Processing Grant provides timely support for food and drink processors considering capital investment.

• Application deadline: 12pm, Friday 15 May 2026
• Funding available: Up to £400,000, covering up to 40% of eligible project costs
• Eligible projects: Machinery and equipment, and building construction, extension or refurbishment
• Project spend deadline: 31 March 2027

Further information is available here:
https://www.gov.scot/news/food-and-drink-industry-support/

Contact for Moray Chamber members

Johnston Carmichael works with food and drink businesses across Scotland on grant applications, reviewing the financial aspects of proposed investment, and wider commercial matters.

Moray Chamber members who would like to discuss the survey findings or the Processing Grant in more detail are welcome to contact me.

Suzanne Harrold
suzanne.harrold@jcca.co.uk