A Message From Our President
It is a great pleasure to introduce the Annual Report for Scottish Bakers. I was deeply honoured to be nominated as President of the Association at our Annual Conference and Awards in May 2024. To have the opportunity to represent you, our valued members, and to follow in the footsteps of the few remarkable women who have previously worn the chain of office is both humbling and inspiring.
The past year has, of course, not been without its challenges. Our trade continues to navigate a difficult economic climate, with soaring ingredient and energy costs, ongoing labour shortages, and shifting consumer behaviours all testing the resilience of our businesses. Yet, despite these pressures, there is also an unmistakable sense of optimism and opportunity across our sector. It is an exciting time for Scottish Bakers as we move forward with renewed purpose under the strategy and leadership of our CEO, Lesley Cameron.
I have thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to work closely with Lesley and her dedicated team during my time as President so far. Lesley’s strategic vision for the Association is both ambitious and member-focused— placing our members at the heart of every decision. Her mission to empower the Scottish bakery trade by fostering a culture of innovation, sustainability, and people development is already taking shape through a range of initiatives that support both the current and next generation of bakers. One of the most rewarding aspects of
my role has been the chance to represent Scottish Bakers at a variety of industry events, including those hosted by our sister associations across the UK. These occasions allow us to strengthen our ties with the wider baking community.
I would also like to express my sincere thanks to my fellow Directors on the Board, who give their time, expertise, and commitment freely in support of our Association and its members. Your guidance and dedication are invaluable. My thanks also go to our industry supporters, in particular, our Strategic Partner, BAKO Group, whose ongoing partnership makes a significant difference to what we are able to achieve together.
As we look ahead, I am filled with pride for all that our members continue to accomplish, often in challenging circumstances. Together, we are preserving the heritage of our craft while embracing the opportunities of the future. I look forward to the year ahead and to continuing to champion the strength, creativity, and resilience that make Scottish Bakers such a special community.
Michelle Phillips President
A Message From Our Chief Executive
It is my pleasure to welcome you to the Scottish Bakers Annual Report 2024/25. At our May 2024 Annual Conference, I stood before you to present the new strategic direction for the Association—a bold and forward-looking plan designed to strengthen our organisation, support our members, and secure the long-term sustainability of the Scottish baking industry. This report reflects the significant progress made in delivering on Year One of our Five-Year Implementation Plan, a journey that has already seen meaningful change, renewed focus, and measurable results.
In the pages that follow, we present our review of the past year, highlighting some of our key operational and financial achievements. I am pleased to report that the 2024–25 financial results reflect a profitable year for the Association. This strong outcome is the direct result of the continued hard work, focus, and dedication of our small but exceptional team, and when I say small, we have seen a 50% reduction in our team over the last ten years. Their professionalism and commitment ensure that we deliver real value to our members while maintaining financial stability and sustainability for the Association as a whole.
Throughout the year, we have continued to strengthen the support we offer to members. Our regular email updates have kept members informed about industry news, changing legislation, HR and employment matters, and the wide range of guidance and
resources available through membership. In addition, we have introduced several new member services designed to meet evolving business needs, ensuring that Scottish Bakers remains a trusted partner and voice for the trade.
A key area of growth has been our apprenticeship and new commercial training services, which continue to deliver vital skills and opportunities for the next generation of bakers. Demand has increased once again, and I am delighted to report that our training team registered 361 apprentices this year, a remarkable achievement that made a significant contribution to the Association’s strong financial result. This success underpins the importance of investing in people and skills as we work together to futureproof our industry.
Our events programme remains a cornerstone of our member engagement, providing opportunities for you to connect, learn, and celebrate success. Following valuable feedback gathered through a member survey, we are excited to deliver a refreshed events calendar for 2026 and 2027, that has been shaped by our members.
I would like to extend my sincere thanks to our President, Michelle Phillips, and to the Board of Directors for their ongoing support and guidance as we continue to implement our strategic plan. I look forward to continuing this important work together in the years ahead.
Above all, Scottish Bakers remains steadfast in its commitment to serving and representing its members. Together, we embody the strength, creativity, and resilience that make our industry so special. As we look to the future, we will continue to champion the interests of our members, nurture the next generation of skilled bakers, and celebrate the craft and community that unite us all.
Together, we are—Many Hands, One
Lesley Cameron Chief Executive Officer
Voice.
Scottish Bakers promotes and protects the interests of Scotland’s baking trade; representing, advising and supporting all aspects of Scotland’s baking industry to ensure it remains competitive.
Scottish Bakers does this by providing the widest possible range of benefits that help our members sustain and grow their businesses including skills development, government lobbying and representation, technical information and assistance, competitions, sector intelligence, legal advice, financial discounts, and social and business networking.
Despite the current market challenges driven by rising costs of production, the cost-ofliving crisis, and the lack of labour within the sector. Scottish Bakers continued to provide essential services to its members, ensuring they received the professional support, advice, and guidance they needed to develop and sustain their businesses.
Our members and our training customers are our number one priority. Our strategy supports and builds the association’s strength, growth and influence, plus its ability to preserve and protect the interests of the trade.
We continued to work tirelessly to ensure our members were supported with updated operational, HR, regulation guidance and training. Scottish Bakers work in collaboration with many partners including Scotland Food and Drink, and other industry representative bodies.
Our World Championship Scotch Pie Awards, Baker of the Year and conference ran well in 2024 and as always, we look to continue to grow, evolve and entice new entrants.
National Food & Drink Training delivered its forecasted number, a ten year best with a 50% reduction in the training team, however there is scope to grow and develop within this area.
Scottish Bakers and NFDT have maintained its hybrid working model which continues to improve operational efficiency.
We continued to focus on our digital and social media communications capacity, which has allowed us to build on the regularity of our contact with members. Our PR strategy is delivering excellent results, having achieved a high level of trade coverage.
We relaunched our strategy in 2024. This is working well, and we have strong delivery plan in place that has delivered additional membership benefits, insights and policy.
Finance Report
2024/25 saw Scottish Bakers make a small surplus (in 2024 there was a small deficit). The gains within our investment portfolio supported the surplus are highlighted.
Intense scrutiny of all overhead costs and expenses has ensured that Scottish Bakers is a modern, lean and efficient organisation.
Monthly meetings of the Finance and Audit Committee ensures we monitor our financial performance regularly, and tackle any issues arising quickly.
Total Income
Total operating income for the year was 1,322,854 compared with £1,093,411 in 202324.
Scottish Bakers Turnover 2020-2025
Scottish Bakers Net Profit 2020-2025
An operating surplus of £62,708 was recorded along with a gain on value of investments and other income of an additional £60,586 giving a net profit for the year of £123,294.
The balance sheet is showing a net asset figure of £2,060,193, up from £1,964,797, on the previous year.
Investments are shown in the accounts at market value of £1,295,850 on 31 March 2025.
S.A.M.B T/A SCOTTISH BAKERS
Statement of Income & Retained Earnings For the Year Ended 31 March 2025
S.A.M.B (REGISTERED NUMBER: SC181670)
T/A SCOTTISH BAKERS Balance Sheet, 31 March 2025
Scottish Bakers
Benevolent Fund
Investment income for the year to March 2025 was £17,457. To the year ending March 2024 investment gains totalled £13,206.
The fund made payments to beneficiaries totalling £1,000.
The Fund had a gain in the net movement in funds of £ 29,220.
The Balance sheet is showing a balance of £770,733.
Benevolent Fund
Statement of Financial Activities For the Year Ended 31 March 2025
National Food & Drink Training
Training continues to deliver over two thirds of Scottish Bakers income, through the activities of National Food & Drink Training (NFDT), our specialist training arm. NFDT delivers a range of food and drink apprenticeships across the UK through our network of regionally based training advisors.
These advisors work hard to preserve and pass on essential craft and technical skills to the workforce that deliver productivity and efficiency gains to businesses.
The bulk of this activity is publicly funded through apprenticeship training contracts secured from Skills Development Scotland (SDS) and The English Skills Funding Agency (ESFA).
Recruitment of apprentices was greatly improved in 2024/25 compared to the previous year, where we met our contracted volume and exceeded our financial target.
Apprenticeship standard volumes in England increased steadily throughout the year, keeping our industry experts engaged.
Training, 73% Events, 14%
Other, 1% Subscriptions, 12%
In May 2024 a new fiveyear strategic direction was launched by CEO Lesley Cameron
Our Vision
To foster the long-term prosperity of the Scottish Bakery Sector by championing innovation, lifelong learning, and growth.
Our Mission
To empower our members by fostering a culture of innovation, sustainability, and people development. Provide a platform for investment, collaboration and knowledge sharing to support profitable, economic growth of the sector. Represent our members with partners and policy makers to develop and grow a transformational bakery sector.
Our Foundation: People
It is Scottish Bakers role to nurture talent and place people at the heart of everything we do both internally and externally. We need to support our members and customers, invest in the right skills, innovation, and people in order to prosper. It is our commitment to educate and upskill the next generation regarding a career in Bakery and through NFDT (National Food & Drink Training), the wider food and drink sector.
Agility & Collaboration
Re-build a resilient industry driven by market intelligence and horizon scanning that can respond to market instability, economic challenges, changes in policy and future supply chain disruption. By working in collaboration with stakeholders and policy makers, Scottish Bakers will provide access to funding, insight and transformational technology that will support the long-term capabilities of the bakery sector.
Growth
Nurture a culture of innovation, reformulation, and productivity to support efficiency, profitability, and the scale of our members. Provide practical tools, insight and knowledge sharing events to help members navigate future market challenges and consumer demand.
Sustainability
Work with our members and partners to embrace the journey towards Net Zero. Scottish Bakers will work in collaboration with key partners to provide a Net Zero roadmap and practical tools to enable our members to meet their environmental targets. Adopting stronger environmental credentials will not only strengthen the sector, it will grow its reputation.
Strategy Into Action: Our Delivery Pillars
• Grow & nurture talent
• CRM process, governance reporting & organisational architecture
• Market the sector as a career destination to future talent.
• Knowledge transfer
• Strategic engagement
• Horizon scanning
• Strategic insights
• Economic trends
• Innovation trends
• Access to investment and funding
• Commercial Training
• Economic growth though new market and channel access
• Retailer & supply chain engagement
• Brand repositioning & launch of consumer quality mark
• Education & consumer events
• PR/Social Media
• Technology & digital industry communications
• Net Zero steering group (Scope 3)
• Reformulation
• Supply chain
• Research & Development
• Increased training numbers
• Growth in new markets and channels
• Staff retention and new talent entering the sector
• Political visits
• New funding streams
• Increased member engagement
• New members
• Red meat sector growth
• Increased training numbers
• Increased brand awareness
• Increased members
• Increased training numbers
• Environmental progress is made and visible industry perception change
• Reformulation wins
• New innovation to market
National Food & Drink Training continue to support the strategic aims of Scottish Bakers in the education and sustainability of skills within the Food & Drink sector throughout the UK. Our Learning & Development interventions and Apprenticeship programmes continue to aid the recruitment and retention of employees with invaluable funding support from Skills Development Scotland (SDS) and the Department for Education (DfE).
The UK Food & Drink sector is constantly faced with ever changing demands and rising costs along with a current labour vacancy rate of 3.9% (Q1 2025) which is down from a high of 6.5% (in the third quarter of 2023).
In context the UK manufacturing sector in general had a labour vacancy rate of 2.0%.
Staff recruitment and retention have never been so important in the minds of employers, Scottish & UK Governments or Scottish Bakers. The sector remains competitive in pay and conditions, yet we can still do more on promoting a “Positive Career Destination”
Apprenticeships and Standards are proven to aid productivity, autonomy, skills and confidence within the workforce through upskilling new and existing employees, leading to a competitive workforce aligned with the business strategy and vision.
to rise through SDS contract levels and levy payments secured through the Department for Education (DfE) standards of delivery, quality of service and learner /employer feedback continue to be monitored and maintained internally as well as externally on an annual basis by our Funders, Awarding Organisations and Government Bodies via Ofsted and Education Scotland. This monitoring confirms that we are “Fit for Purpose” and delivering “added value” to businesses and Individuals.
Our original SDS Contract for 2024-2025 was for 361 starts and worth £590,210.
We completed the contract year by claiming £668,150 (+ 18% Y/Y) and registered 361 new apprentices onto programme. This included two re-entrants and 19 progressions (level 2 -3 at less funding). Our achievement rates finished at 86.39% against a National Apprenticeship average of 79.0%.
Over the course of the year, we have worked with 83 employers in Scotland from Caithness to the Borders and all points, East & West, delivering Modern Apprenticeship’s in bakery, production, food manufacturing excellence, operations, distribution, dairy, food sales and service and supply chain.
Focus on Training
Whilst total apprenticeship numbers continue
We have also launched an online training academy and developed standalone commercial programmes that reflect employer and wider food and drink sector needs, aligned to our new strategy.
Our Commerical Training
SDS Starts
The Skills landscape throughout the UK is changing, particularly in Scotland with Funding and Awarding Organisations being reorganised and positioned in line with the new Tertiary Education Bill via the Scottish Government. NFDT through Scottish Bakers, continue to work hard and lobby government to ensure we have the tools and support required to sustain and build the sector.
(Includes
and re-entrants)
Background Characteristics
Status Characteristics Support Characteristics
Self Identified Health Condition or Learning Difficulty
About our Learners
Overall Achievement/Retention Rate was 86.4% against a National Average of 79.8%, NFDT’s highest recorded achievement rate.
Male achievers 83.0% against a National Average of 78.3% (Q4 2023/24)
Female Achievers 90.11% against a National Average of 82.1% (Q4 2023/24)
Starts by Pathway
Pathways are the structured programs that we use to facilitate Modern Apprenticeships (MA) through part-funding with Skills Development Scotland (SDS).
These pathways are part of delivery Frameworks which combine on-thejob training with industry-recognised qualifications. They specify the job roles, training pathways, and assessments required for an individual to become a qualified Modern Apprentice in a particular sector, in our case Food & Drink Operations, which covers manufacturing, distribution, retail sales, management, continuous improvement, supply chain to small medium and large employers within the Food & Drink sector.
SDS Income
2019/20 - 2024/25
We worked hard to deliver a record year for Scottish Bakers, our original contract value was £590,210 and we delivered £668,150 a massive £77,940 ahead of contract value. This was due to us performing ahead of forecast and SDS providing us with a further two contract increases within the year. Many thanks to those employers in the Food & Drink sector that continue to utilise our services and invest in their employees.
This record year was delivered with a 50% reduction in the training team compared to 2018/19. With a change in delivery models, in accordance with our new strategy, we delivered our highest achievement and satisfaction rates from candidates and employers through feedback and auditing.
Our Training in England
We continue to deliver Apprenticeship Standards (AS) via the Department for Education (DfE). These standards differ from Scottish MA’s in length of programme, content, funding and include a final independent test (EPA).
Throughout the last financial year, we have worked with 37 employers covering various sites and style of bakery manufacturing and processing. We had 72 learners enrolled throughout the year on one of our three Apprenticeship Standard programmes.
To date, our learner achievement statistics through the End Point Assessment (EPA) process for the Apprenticeship Standard are as follows: 26 learners have completed, earning 6 Distinctions, 14 Merits, and 6 Passes.
These grades are given independently by an Approved Body upon successfully completing three elements of EPA covering programme Knowledge, Skills and Behaviours (KSBs).
Our small and dedicated team of two Advisors continued to represent National Food & Drink Training (NFDT) in the best light whilst maintaining our Quality of provision and standards as gauged by OFSTED, DFE and our Awarding Organisations of FDQ & Highfield AB (all reports can be viewed on NFDT website).
Up to March 2025 we drew down £244,304 in Apprenticeship funding.
The Lead Baker qualification is now available for delivery as an Apprenticeship standard and at the time of writing this report (October 2025) we have five learners from two employers registered.
Developing Sustainable Futures
Our Consumer Strategy
In August 2024 Scottish Bakers launched a new consumer-facing brand as part of its five-year strategy, designed to futureproof the sector, strengthen consumer trust, and support growth in the Scottish market.
With a rich heritage rooted in tradition and quality, Scottish Bakers is committed to growing brand awareness by developing Scottish Bakers as a brand mark that will become synonymous with quality, integrity, sustainability and baking excellence. This initiative is more than just a brand — it’s a promise to consumers that when they choose a product associated with Scottish Bakers, they are choosing superior quality, sustainable practices, and a slice of Scotland’s baking history.
Central to this strategy is a targeted marketing and social media campaign, with content created to resonate with today’s discerning consumer. The campaign will celebrate the unique stories of Scottish Bakers members, highlighting their dedication and craftsmanship across three distinct segments:
Local Heroes: Celebrating the artisans and bakery café owners who keep traditional baking alive.
Icons: Showcasing the innovation and scale of larger plant bakeries that are pillars of the industry.
Pioneers: Honouring the masterful creators of iconic Scotch pies and Savoury delights.
To hear more about it watch our video here
Events
Competitions remain a key part of our operations. Raising the profile of the sector and celebrating the success of our hardworking bakers
Annual Conference & Awards 2024
The Scottish Bakers Annual Conference and Awards returned to Glasgow in May 2024, bringing together industry professionals, innovators, and leaders from across the Scottish baking sector. This year’s event carried the theme “In the Mix: Bake to Innovate and was hosted by Mich Turner MBE for the final time, after 10 years at the helm.
Focusing on innovation, consumer insights, new product development, reformulation, and growth, the conference provided a valuable platform for learning, collaboration, and celebration of excellence within the Scottish bakery industry.
The programme combined thoughtprovoking keynotes with new Interactive Taster Sessions, offering delegates hands-on opportunities to explore innovation in action. Keynote speaker featured Jeremy White, Senior Innovation Editor, WIRED magazine, who explored the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence in the bakery sector; and Judith Batchelar OBE who talked about the practical implications of sustainability for businesses.
Our new interactive taster sessions were a popular addition offering delegates an engaging opportunity to collaborate and exchange ideas.
Start With The Consumer In Mind – Drive Innovation
Mark Thomson
and Carey McEvoy,
TRKR
Delegates worked in teams to identify target audiences, pinpoint key consumer “tension points,” and craft compelling value propositions for new product development ideas.
Consumer to Shelf
Andy Maclachlan, Food2market Ltd
This session focused on the journey from concept to market, offering guidance on presenting NPD concepts to buyers, building relationships, and successfully bringing innovative products to retail shelves.
The Customer Journey: Brand Awareness Through Social Media
This workshop highlighted the power of digital engagement, exploring how social media channels and influencer partnerships can strengthen brand awareness, target specific demographics, and generate measurable ROI.
Scottish Baker of the Year Awards and Presidential Banquet
The conference culminated in the Presidential Banquet and Scottish Baker of the Year Awards, a highlight of the weekend celebrating outstanding talent and achievement across the industry.
During the ceremony, Michelle Phillips was officially installed as the 126th President of Scottish Bakers, marking a new chapter of leadership for the organisation.
The most prestigious award of the evening, Scottish Baker of the Year 2024, was presented to The Bread Guy Bakery of Aberdeen. The competition was fierce, with nearly 600 entries from more than 60 bakers across Scotland.
Our sincere thanks to our events sponsors for supporting us to deliver another fantastic conference and awards event for our members.
Thank you to our sponsors for The Scottish Baker of the Year Awards 2024/25
Awards Partner
World Championship Scotch Pie Awards –PIEONEERS READY?
In January 2025, Scotland’s Baker and Butcher Pieoneers Tackled Pie-Fuelled Challenge to mark the launch of the silver anniversary competition.
Scotland’s love affair with pies and savouries reached fever pitch as football legend Kris Boyd kicked off the countdown for the 25th annual World Championship Scotch Pie Awards at Scotland’s national stadium, Hampden Park.
To celebrate a quarter of a century of pie-making excellence and this iconic competition we staged a friendly showdown with butchers and bakers going head-to-head at the home of Scottish football.
As part of the event we launched our new campaign, ’Pieoneers’, celebrating the passion, skill, and dedication of bakers, butchers, and pie makers across the UK and beyond.
Our Pieoneers
Campaign Goals
• Raise awareness of the milestone 25th anniversary of the World Championship Scotch Pie Awards, reinforcing its iconic status
• Launch an integrated strategy, to generate quality coverage through the line that is relevant to both Pie Consumers and Pie Makers.
• Strengthen relationships with media, influencers and consumers.
• Showcase the two sectors and our sponsors in a new a fun engaging way. Emphasise
the awards’ role in championing success, innovation and quality whilst promoting the thriving future of the industry amidst a competitive landscape.
• Generate sharable social media content that our members can use on their own channels that is relevant to consumers to increase visibility, grow follower count, reach and impressions.
• Encourage more user-generated content.
• Increase traffic to the competition site through social media.
• Strengthen brand recognition through consistent branding, tone of voice, and visuals.
• Designed to shine a spotlight on the pie and savoury industry trailblazers, the silver anniversary awards showcased these pieoneers’ craftsmanship, innovation, and commitment to keeping Scotland’s culinary heritage alive.
Under the watchful eye of new head judges Gordon Newlands, Brands Development and Scotch Butchers Club Manager, Quality Meat Scotland and Kyle Rodgers, Commercial Director of Rainbow Dust, our bakers and butchers faced off in a series of fun, Tough Mudder-inspired challenges, refereed by football star Kris Boyd. The launch’s Tough Mudder inspired mini tournament featured:
Scotch Pie Hurl: Distance challenge with ultimate bragging rights on the line.
Tug o’ Pies: A pie-fuelled tug-of-war showdown.
Pie-nalty Shootout: Score as many goals as possible—with pies in play!
Our successful launch event delivered a significant return in investment for PR and social media with over 20million opportunities to see, including features on Sky News and The Sun.
As a result, we saw a record-breaking number of entries submitted for the judging event held in March 2025. An astonishing 539 entries from 88 companies across multiple categories, marking the biggest turnout in the competition’s history – and perhaps its fiercest yet.
A panel of over 50 expert judges, representing every part of the industry - from field to fork - tasted and assessed each entry. These included technical experts, NPD specialists, buyers, chefs, multiple retail representatives, and consumers, ensuring the judging reflects both the full supply chain and end customer. The diverse judging panel mirrored the dynamic and evolving nature of the industry.
We look forward to reporting on the success of the awards event in the 2025/26 annual report.
Thank you to all of our sponsors!
Member Services
We continue to provide a range of services to our members.
PENINSULA: HR LEGAL
Scottish Bakers has carefully selected Peninsula to support bakery members with their HR, Employment Law and Health & Safety requirements. Peninsula’s team of expert advisors based in its Glasgow offices, are available to members 24/7. This keystone service can save even small bakery members over £1,300 per year compared with contracting for its provision separately.
Bakery members have access to team of Employment Law experts and access to a documentation suite for their Employment Law needs.
With extensive and detailed professional experience in HR and Employment Law, the Peninsula team make sure our members get the advice you need as quickly as possible.
This service provides peace of mind to members when dealing with the complex areas of HR, Employment Law and Health & Safety legislation. They can relax in the knowledge that they have their own team of experts on call 24/7, either by phone or online, as well as a comprehensive back up and support service to help you find your way.
BRIGHT HR: Smart People Management Software
BrightHR gives members access to a range of time and cost saving features, including holiday and absence management, rota planning, clock-in and out, expense management, performance and appraisal,
CPD accredited e-learning and much more!
Scottish Bakers Insight Hub & Future of Bakery Report
Sponsored by
Members gain exclusive access to the Scottish Bakers Insight Hub and the annual Future of Bakery Report, providing valuable data, trends, and analysis on the bakery sector in Scotland and beyond. This resource offers practical insights into consumer behaviour, market performance, innovation, and industry challenges, helping members make informed strategic decisions. Designed to keep bakeries ahead of the curve, this benefit supports growth, competitiveness, and long-term success across the sector.
Accounts & Payroll Support
Members can access exclusive services from Azets, a leading provider of accounting, tax, and business advisory solutions. Through this partnership, members benefit from professional payroll management and accounting services designed to save time, ensure compliance, and improve financial efficiency.
Azets’ experts handle everything from payroll processing and reporting to bookkeeping and annual accounts, allowing our members to focus on running their businesses with confidence. Preferential rates and dedicated support make this a valuable benefit for organisations seeking reliable financial management.
Marsh: Insurance Solutions for Members
Members benefit from exclusive access to Marsh, a leading insurance broker offering tailored business and personal insurance solutions. Through this partnership, members can obtain expert advice, competitive rates, and coverage designed to meet the specific needs of their organisations.
Marsh’s specialists provide guidance on risk management, policy selection, and claims support, ensuring members have the right protection and peace of mind. With dedicated service and preferential terms, this benefit helps members safeguard their people, assets, and operations with confidence.
WEX: Fuel Card
Scottish Bakers members are eligible to apply for an Esso Card™ fuel card and receive a highly competitive fixed weekly DISCOUNT of UP TO 5P PER LITRE off pump price.
You can also collect Tesco Clubcard points — an Esso Card™ allows your drivers to earn Tesco Clubcard points when they fill up at participating Esso-branded filling stations.
AA: Breakdown Cover
Running a company with vehicles at its heart means that staying still isn’t an option. The AA’s business breakdown cover will make sure your drivers get back on the road quickly – and with minimum disruption – if the worst happens. All you need to do is choose the right level of cover for you. Scottish Bakers members receive up to 56% off business breakdown cover with the AA.
Legal with Lindsays
Lindsays are here to support you. As a valued member, you have access to the Scottish firm of experienced lawyers. Its reliable team cater for all your needs from their offices in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dundee, Perth and Crieff.
DELL Technologies
Dell UK has always worked help to help small businesses grow and support them wherever possible. After all, they started as one when they were founded just over 30 years ago! Members benefit from discount and offers from Dell Technologies.
Direct Energy: Energy, Utilities & Merchant Services
Scottish Bakers has carefully selected Perthbased Direct Energy as its preferred energy and utilities service provider. Direct Energy has over 20 years’ experience working in the British energy industry and are dedicated to getting you the best possible deals on energy and other utility costs which NOW INCLUDES MERCHANT SERVICES.
Direct Energy is a 100% independent and impartial business and makes no charge for its services: they work for you not the supplier
Their business is comparing energy and utilities deals for you saving you money and time.
HMCA: Medical Care Plans
HMCA has specialised in providing benefits and services to associations and professional groups since the 1970s. HMCA is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
Scottish Bakers has agreed with HMCA to offer discounted rates for medical plans, dental plan, hospital cash plans, travel plan, income protection and vehicle breakdown products.
FOOD CHAIN ID: Food Safety Support
FoodChain ID Technical Services Ltd is the UK’s leading provider of Trading Standards and Food Safety Advisory Services.
FoodChain ID Technical Services has been at the vanguard of the New Food industry for more than two decades, providing expertise worldwide to navigate the requirements of an increasingly regulated food economy and technical services to support the demand for clean label standards.
The support service is provided by qualified legal practitioners under the supervision of qualified Trading Standards Officers with appropriate commercial experience, ensuring our members receive legally accurate information which is practical and relevant in commercial operations.
LEYTONS: R&D Tax Credits
Leyton is a global innovation funding consultancy dedicated to helping their clients improve their business performance. They work with businesses of all sizes to find a better way of delivering value. In the UK, their specific expertise is in innovation funding, energy consultancy and capital advisory.
They are the UK’s largest specialist in Research & Development (R&D) Tax Credits; a government incentive which rewards UK companies for investing in innovation. They have a highly qualified team of consultants in science, tax, engineering, software and accountancy and are proud to have a 100% success rate for HMRC submissions generating an average return of £78,000 per year for our clients.
Their commitment to Scottish Bakers and its members is to ensure the delivery and maximisation of Research and Development (R&D) Tax Credits, while giving members a free review of their current service provision. They are committed to working alongside the association and its members to increase the knowledge and awareness of Innovation funding.
OH WORKS: Occupational Health
Glasgow based OH Works, is an occupational health service specialising in offering the required legislative health care needs for all employees.
Bakery businesses have a legislative obligation to undertake lung function tests and skin assessments under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) — recommended annually.
Members can access this service, and many others including hearing tests, face-mask fitting, and other safety critical medical assessments at a special reduced rate.
FOOD TECH SYSTEMS: Food Safety Consultancy
Scottish Bakers has secured DISCOUNTED rates for members to access Food Tech Systems consultancy services and FREE access for straightforward telephone/email enquiries.
Food Tech Systems offers food safety consultancy services to food and drink industry businesses across the UK. They are respected and recognised leaders in Food Safety covering technical, production, operations and Health & Safety services from a friendly specialist food safety consultancy business.
Food Tech Systems can support on-site training and consultancy in the following areas: BRC SALSA, EHO, Labelling, Site Layout & HACCP.
Risks & Challenges
The majority of Scottish Bakers income is generated through the delivery of national training programmes, leaving us exposed to potential changes in apprenticeship policy across the UK and Scotland. To manage this, we maintain an active engagement strategy and policy framework to ensure representation in relevant consultations. We also mitigate risk by consistently exceeding the quality standards set by our funders, awarding partners, and regulators, and by diversifying our training portfolio through the launch of our new commercial training academy.
Training operations remain susceptible to disruption from staff absence, access restrictions, and increased on-site workloads, which affects cost of delivery increases. We operate our training division with the same rigour and focus as a bakery runs its operations. Ensuring efficiency, consistency, and responsiveness to demand. Accurate forecasting is therefore critical to sustaining operational performance and securing the future stability of the business. These risks are further mitigated by maintaining a broad and flexible training offer across the food and drink manufacturing sector.
Ongoing labour shortages within the industry continue to affect learner participation. We are addressing this by reinforcing the value of training and development as a key response to workforce challenges. This area will also be further addressed in our policy manifesto for next year.
We have also taken deliberate steps to reduce dependence on external training funding. The 2024 membership rate review has strengthened member income, and our focus now is on expanding membership, enhancing our member value proposition through effective marketing, and building awareness of both the Scottish Bakers and NFDT brands. Additionally, we continue to optimise sponsorship opportunities for our events and develop advertising revenue across our communication platforms.
Governance
Board Members 2024/25
Michelle Phillips, President Mimi’s Bakehouse
Gary Reid, Vice President Reid’s of Caithness
Alan Marr Aulds Bakeries Ltd
Ronnie Miles Bells Food Group Ltd
John Gall Brownings the Bakers Ltd
Ian McGhee, Immediate Past President D McGhee & Sons Ltd
Chloe Milne Fisher & Donaldson
Don Henderson Goodfellows of Dundee Ltd
Andrew Chisholm J B Christie Ltd
Shirley Simson Lees of Scotland
Paul Mackintosh (Appointed November 2024) Mackenzies Bakery
Keith Stuart (Resigned November 2024)
R T Stuart Ltd
Mark Stuart R T Stuart Ltd
Suzanne Matheson S M Bayne & Co
Craig McPhie Pars Foods Ltd
André Sarafilovic
(Resigned November 2024)
Stephens Bakery
Sean Sarafilovic
Stephens Bakery
Kris McVey (Resigned November 2024)
The Breadwinner Bakery
Company Information
REGISTERED OFFICE
Bakers House, Unit 2, Halbeath Interchange
Business Park, Kingseat Road, Halbeath, Dunfermline, KY11 8RY
AUDITOR
Haines Watt, Q Court, 3 Quality Street, Edinburgh, EH4 5BP
BANKERS
Virgin Money, 30 St Vincent Place, Glasgow, G1 2HL
Barclays Bank, PO Box 23966, Edinburgh, EH3 1BF
INVESTMENT ADVISORS MANAGEMENT
Alan Steel Asset Management, Nobel House, Linlithgow, EH49 7HU
Scottish Bakers
Staff 2024/25
BAKERS HOUSE TEAM
Lesley Cameron Chief Executive Officer
Scott Anderson Training & Development Manager
Lucy Wheeler Marketing & Events Manager
Kim Beatson Contracts Officer
TRAINING TEAM (NATIONAL FOOD & DRINK TRAINING)
Steve Fleming Senior Training Advisor
James McCormack Senior Training Advisor
Graeme Ayton Training Advisor
Wendy Donald Training Advisor
Patrick Finnigan Training Advisor
Gary Steele Training Advisor
Matthew Smith Training Advisor
Louise West Training Advisor
Scottish Bakers Committees
SCOTTISH BAKERS CONFERENCE & EVENTS COMMITTEE
Brian Sarafilovic (Chair)
Pars Foods Ltd
JIC COMMITTEE
Alan Marr
Aulds Bakeries Ltd
Samantha Murray
Bells Food Group Ltd
Ian McGhee
D McGhee & Sons Ltd
Aisling McGhee
D McGhee & Sons Ltd
Don Henderson
Goodfellows of Dundee Ltd
Suzanne Matheson
S M Bayne & Co
Lesley Cameron
Scottish Bakers
John Gall
Brownings the Bakers Ltd
Lauren Ingram Cake
Ian McGhee
D McGhee & Sons Ltd
Russell McGhee
D McGhee & Sons Ltd
Ashley Harley
Mimi’s Bakehouse
Michelle Phillips
Mimi’s Bakehouse
Lesley Cameron
Scottish Bakers
Lucy Wheeler
Scottish Bakers
Sean Sarafilovic
Stephens Bakery
Talia Baylis
Stephens Bakery
SCOTTISH
BAKERS FINANCE & AUDIT COMMITTEE
Don Henderson (Chair)
Goodfellows of Dundee Ltd
Alan Marr
Aulds Bakeries Ltd
Ian McGhee
D McGhee & Sons Ltd
Don Henderson
Goodfellows of Dundee Ltd
Michelle Phillips
Mimi’s Bakehouse
Lesley Cameron
Scottish Bakers
SCOTTISH BAKERS
BENEVOLENT FUND TRUSTEES
Ronnie Miles
Bells Food Group Ltd
Ian McGhee
D McGhee & Sons Ltd
Michelle Phillips
President and Founder of Mimi’s Bakehouse
Craig McPhie
Pars Foods Ltd
A final thank you to our members
Finally, we extend our sincere thanks to all our members for their continued trust, commitment, and engagement. Your support underpins everything we do. From delivering high-quality training and representing our industry’s interests, to promoting growth, innovation, and excellence across the bakery sector. Together, we are stronger, and we remain dedicated to working alongside you to ensure a vibrant and sustainable future for our industry.
AAK International
ADM Milling
Andrew Ingredients Ltd
Azets
BAKO Northern & Scotland
BFP
Bissett Printers Ltd
Brow Packaging
CSM Ingredients UK Ltd
Carr’s Flour Mills Ltd.
Cardowan Creameries
CFW – Catering Equipment and Supplies
Cybake Ltd
DMD (2000) Ltd
Dawn Foods Ltd
Document Data Group
Dübor
Fleming Howden
Ingram Brothers (Glasgow) Ltd
Invicta Bakeware Limited
IREKS U.K. Ltd
Kimberley Watson Packaging Ltd
Kurve Kiosks
Linwood Raker
Localist
Macphie Ltd
Marsh Commercial
Oxford Flour Mill
PFM Packaging Machinery Ltd
Pan Glo UK Ltd T/A American Pan UK
Planglow Ltd.
Puratos Ltd
Rondo Ltd
Scobie Junor
Scobie McIntosh
European Process Plant Ltd
Südzucker UK
Sure Recruitment Group
Verona Eco Ltd. Sustainable Food Packaging
WBG
Williams Refrigeration
Zeelandia Ltd
Honorary Members
Jim Duncan
Ian Hay, OBE
Keith Houliston
Margaret MacLean*
Jim McPhie
Sir Malcolm Rifkind
Robert Ross
George Ross
André Sarafilovic
Rodger Short
Fay Somerville
George Stevenson
Alan Stuart
Sir Boyd Tunnock
Mich Turner MBE
John Young*
*In Memoriam
Life Members
Alister Asher
Dennis Brown
Jim Brown
Allan Burns
Sheila Chalmers
Peter Ford
John Gall
Evelyn Gillespie
Iain Gillespie
John M Gillespie
David Graham
Don Henderson
Linda Hill
Fraser Hogg
Mike Holling
Dennis Hume
Lewis Maclean
Alan Marr
Gordon McGhee
Fred McKechnie
Craig McPhie
Ronnie Miles
John Murray
Peter O’Dowd
Clive Sangster
Brian Sarafilovic
Stanley Smith
Terry Tredget
Susan Whyte
Retired Members
Charles Black
Ian Blackley
Hinton Bootland
Sylivia Bossard
Christa Briggs
David Briggs
Ian and Maureen Brown
Pamela Chalmers
Jean Chalmers I Coaker
Robert Cowan
David Dalgity
Ian Davis
Ian Dawson
Bruce Drummond
George Dunlop
Jerry Gordon
Malcolm Gray
Noel Hawkes
Irene Hopkins
Margaret Kean
Tony Kelly
Angus Lamond
George Mackay
Mr and Mrs MacPherson
Bill Montgomery
John Morrison
Gerry Murray
Jim Neilson
Andrew Noble
David Paterson
Derek Patterson
Fiona Phillips
George Pirie
John Quinn
John & Pat Russell
John Smith
Paul Smith
J Snodgrass
George Struthers
Graeme Thain
George Wallace
Stuart Wilshaw
Margaret Jack
Henry Jefferies
Noel and Margaret Forbes
Jack Pillans