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Scotland’s red meat goes global! Tune in as our host Claire Taylor deep dives in the highlights, insights and opportunities from Anuga 2025 – one of the world’s biggest food and drink trade shows.

Hear from Kate Rowell, Iain Macdonald, Tom Gibson and Mairi Gougeon MSP on exports, opportunity and the power of provenance.

Here is a link to all episodes of QMS's podcast https://qmscotland.co.uk/news-media/qms-podcast

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In this episode of the QMS Podcast, Kate reflects on a busy month of activity, sharing key meetings, industry takeaways, and a look ahead to what’s next for QMS, including our presence at Anuga in October. Abby brings market insight, exploring current conditions and the consumer trends shaping demand both at home and abroad. We then turn to the latest Scotch campaign, where Emma explains how it was developed with a focus on trust, traceability, and tradition, alongside the media channels driving reach from TV to digital and in-store. Jennifer shares her personal journey as one of the featured farmers, discussing the importance of visibility for real Scottish farmers, quality assurance, and buying local, while also reflecting on succession planning as Angus shows growing interest in the farm. Emma closes with a look at first-month campaign results, what’s resonating with audiences so far, and how the campaign ties into longer-term goals for the Scotch brands and QMS’s wider marketing plans for the year ahead.

Here is a link to all episodes of QMS's podcast https://qmscotland.co.uk/news-media/qms-podcast

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In this episode, Claire interviews Jenny McKerr, who discusses her role as Private Kill Coordinator at Quality Meat Scotland. They explore the challenges facing abattoirs in Scotland, the importance of private kill for local markets, and the need for collaboration between farmers and processors. Jenny shares her experiences in processing and agritourism, highlighting the growing interest in local supply chains and the need for producer groups to enhance communication and efficiency in the industry.

Here is a link to all episodes of QMS's podcast https://qmscotland.co.uk/news-media/qms-podcast

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This bonus podcast episode delves into the latest findings from Quality Meat Scotland's Red Meat Industry Profile 2025, highlighting record economic contributions, challenges in livestock numbers, and evolving consumer behaviours. Ian Macdonald and Abby Tong from QMS discuss key insights, including profitability pressures, retail trends, and the importance of local produce. The conversation also covers the Meeting Our Potential campaign aimed at stabilising the beef herd and enhancing the sector's resilience.

Here is a link to all episodes of QMS's podcast https://qmscotland.co.uk/news-media/qms-podcast

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In this special episode, Claire is joined by Neil Wilson, Executive Director of the Institute of Auctioneers and Appraisers in Scotland (IAAS), to explore the Meating Our Potential campaign and what it means for the future of Scotland’s red meat sector. They discuss the critical role of auction marts, the opportunities for producers to grow confidence and invest in their herds, and the value of collaboration across the supply chain.

Also in this episode:

Claire and Kate reflect on key takeaways from the Royal Highland Show, including major policy announcements on climate and agriculture, and the need for greater alignment between environmental and farming priorities.

Iain Macdonald joins the conversation with a market update — covering the latest on beef and lamb prices, post-Eid recovery, and the long-term importance of building domestic supply chains.

Whether you're in the ring, on the farm or just curious about the future of the sector, this episode delivers insight, optimism and straight-talking perspectives on where Scottish red meat is headed.

🔗 Find out more: qmscotland.co.uk/industry-development/meatingourpotential

Here is a link to all episodes of QMS's podcast https://qmscotland.co.uk/news-media/qms-podcast

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In this podcast episode, Crawford Niven shares insights into his farming journey in central Scotland, discussing the balance between arable and cattle farming, the growth of his farm shop and butchery, and the importance of community engagement through YouTube and agritourism. He reflects on market trends, the significance of restocking in Scottish agriculture, and the challenges of balancing farming with content creation.

Here is a link to all episodes of QMS's podcast https://qmscotland.co.uk/news-media/qms-podcast

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In this episode, we're joined by RNAS President as we look ahead to the very first Beef Tech event, hosted on 28th May at Home Farm, Kininmonth, Peterhead – a new event showcasing innovation and technology in the beef sector.

We also catch up with QMS Chair Kate Rowell, who shares reflections on lambing and calving season, the challenges and rewards of this busy time of year, and how the recent good weather is helping farmers across the country.

And as always, Iain Macdonald brings his expert insight into current market trends and prices, giving you the latest on livestock and trade developments.

It’s a packed episode full of practical insight, forward-thinking ideas, and a look at what’s driving change in Scottish agriculture.

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Here is a link to all episodes of QMS's podcast https://qmscotland.co.uk/news-media/qms-podcast

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In this month’s episode of the QMS Red Meat Podcast, we’re joined by Mairi Gougeon MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Land Reform and Islands, for an exclusive deep dive into the latest Scottish Government policies impacting the industry.

We’ll discuss:
✅ The future of Scotland’s red meat sector amidst evolving agricultural policies
✅ Government strategies to support farmers, butchers, and processors
✅ Balancing food security, biodiversity, and climate goals
✅ The challenges and opportunities for the sector over the next five years
✅ What makes Scotch Beef, Scotch Lamb, and Specially Selected Pork stand out globally

We also get a personal insight from the Cabinet Secretary on her favourite Scottish red meat dish!

Plus, we’ll hear updates from Sarah Millar on industry developments and Iain Macdonald on the latest market trends across cattle, sheep, and pig sectors.

Don’t forget to subscribe for more expert discussions each month!

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Here is a link to all episodes of QMS's podcast https://qmscotland.co.uk/news-media/qms-podcast

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In this month’s episode of the QMS Red Meat Podcast, we catch up with Martin Kennedy to reflect on his time as President of NFU Scotland. He shares the highlights and defining moments of his presidency, offering valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities faced by Scottish agriculture.

We also hear from Kate Rowell, who updates us on her work with the development of industry-led groups and their role in shaping the future of farming.

Abby Tong brings positive news from the red meat sector, discussing the growing importance of provenance and quality in the food service industry and what it means for producers meeting consumer demands.

Tune in for an insightful episode on the future of Scottish agriculture and the opportunities ahead!

Here is a link to all episodes of QMS's podcast https://qmscotland.co.uk/news-media/qms-podcast

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In this episode of the QMS Red Meat Podcast, we welcome James Withers, a seasoned expert in economic development, strategy, skills, public affairs, and communications. With a distinguished career in agri-food, drink, and tourism, James offers an invaluable perspective on the UK Farm Assurance Review.

James breaks down the key findings of the report, highlighting how farm assurance systems are evolving across the UK and how they impact farmers. 

This episode also dives into how farmers can collaborate on common issues and best practices to improve the industry. Whether you’re a farmer, business leader, or stakeholder, this episode offers valuable insights into the future of farm assurance and the role it plays in shaping UK agriculture.

Here is a link to all episodes of QMS's podcast https://qmscotland.co.uk/news-media/qms-podcast