THE Co-op and Scotmid are joining forces with celebrated Scottish chef Nick Nairn to launch the first Scottish Supplier Awards 2018.

The two convenience retailers, who stock more than 1800 Scottish lines between them, will celebrate the best of the Scottish food industry across sectors including bakery, grocery, fresh, beers, wines and spirits and will also reward those who have demonstrated sustainability in their food production.

Nairn, who became the youngest Scottish chef to win a Michelin star, is head of the judging panel. Winners will be awarded at a ceremony on September 12 in Glasgow which will be hosted by TV presenter, Jennifer Reoch.

Nairn said: “I was raised on delicious home grown Scottish food and I’m thrilled my fellow Scots are just as passionate about buying, cooking and eating Scottish food as I am.”

CJ Antal Smith of Co-op said: “Food provenance means everything to our customers and members

here in Scotland.”