Public Sector Food Procurement Taskforce
Overview
The Public Sector Food Procurement Taskforce was announced in June 2026 to help increase the use of locally produced food and drink across Scotland's public sector, including schools, hospitals and workplaces. It's part of our commitment to supporting Scotland's food and drink sector and strengthening local food supply chains.
In this context, "local food" means food that is crafted, grown, raised, harvested or manufactured in Scotland. This definition is consistent with our local food strategy.
This will support Scotland's farmers, crofters, food producers and processors, while delivering economic, environmental and health benefits for communities across the country.
The group will work together to develop practical recommendations for Scottish ministers by spring 2027. These recommendations will support:
- public sector organisations buying more local food and drink
- stronger local and regional supply chains
- sustainable and resilient food procurement practices
- better access to fresh, nutritious and locally produced food
- economic growth in Scotland's food and drink sector and rural communities
Members
- Jim Fairlie MSP, Chair, Minister for Agriculture, Marine and the Islands
- John Davidson, Co-chair, National Farmers Union Scotland
- Nicky Joiner, Co-chair, ASSIST FM
- Patrick Hughes, Scottish Agricultural Organisation Society
- David Thomson, Food and Drink Federation Scotland
- Fiona Richmond, Scotland Food & Drink
- Jayne Jones, Scottish Food Commission
- Simon Kenton-Lake, Scottish Food Coalition
- Colette Sherry, Central Government Procurement Centre of Expertise
- Laura Muir, Scotland Excel
- Loraine Hartley, NHS National Procurement, Public Services Delivery Scotland
- Colin Smith, Scottish Wholesale Association
- Lisa Hislop, National Farmers Union Scotland
- Mark Hunter, ASSIST FM