Fiona has been actively promoting and supporting quality food and drink production for almost 20 years, working with industry leadership organisation Scotland Food & Drink since 2009 managing various projects across food tourism, regional food development, foodservice and major events. Named one of the UK's top 20 icons of the industry by Speciality & Fine Food magazine 2019, she previously worked with the Slow Food movement, including a period in the international headquarters in Italy. She was named one of the Top 100 Women in Tourism and The Scottish Women’s Awards Best Professional in Business 2022. She is also a board member of Les Dames London, a global philanthropic association of leading women in food, drink and hospitality.

What do you think are the greatest opportunities for the Scottish tourism, retail and hospitality industries in 2025?

Every year brings different challenges and opportunities, and 2025 will be no different. The more we can work in partnership, supporting one another, the better, showing the vital importance of these sectors to the Scottish economy and our local communities. We know that the public’s demand for sustainable, quality produce is on the rise and operators can capitalise on that by sourcing and serving local food and drink, building relationships with suppliers, at the same time. Scotland is bursting with outstanding, ‘Naturally Scottish’ produce made by businesses who care and we, as an industry, want to help them grow and shine. We also know that the demand for immersive experiences continues to rise. By Spring 2025, we’ll have delivered our first programme with 50 businesses across the country who are developing or enhancing their food tourism bookable experience offer, and we can’t wait to shout about what they’ve achieved.

What are you looking most forward to seeing, meeting, or attending at ScotHot?

I’m very much looking forward to meeting up with fellow industry professionals and gaining inspiration from the many features of the show. The Spotlight Stage always presents a fantastic programme of topics and speakers (I will never forget the session with the wonderful Hairy Bikers that we organised last time – we were so lucky that the late Dave Myers was able to join us with his best friend, Si King). Always love seeing new talent shine at the Scottish Culinary Championships. The whole event has such a buzz about it, which is so infectious.

Why do you think events like ScotHot are important to the industry?

I don’t think that the power of bringing like-minded people together, from all aspects of the industry, can be underestimated – it’s where the magic happens. Hearing from others on a panel, tasting products, watching competitions, enjoying impromptu conversations, are so motivating and energising. If we ever need reminded about the value and importance of food, drink, tourism and hospitality, then events such as ScotHot will do that. I always feel a great sense of pride to be involved in the sector when surrounded by peers, learning new things, exchanging ideas and contacts. So, I would say to anyone considering going, to just book a ticket and go! Leave the laptop behind and spend time with others – it will be worth it.