Shetland Food and Drink (SFAD) launched the trailer at the Taste of Shetland festival last October and, while priority will be given to SFAD members, use of the trailer is open to all.
SFAD project assistant Joanne Williams said the trailer’s versatile, flexible equipment could be extremely useful for organisers of a wide range of community events. It is kitted out with two large griddles, a gas hob and oven, a water heater and fridge
The trailer was purchased last year thanks to corporate sponsorship and support from the coastal communities and regional food funds. It is designed to be a “flexible trading space”, with benches and windbreaks on order to combat the changeable Shetland climate.
“It can be used as an event, demonstration, retail, educational and pop-up catering facility,” Joanne said, “and is intended to assist with Covid-19 recovery by building awareness of Shetland food and drink in the isles and beyond.
“The Taste of Shetland trailer can be used for private events, such as a wedding or birthday celebrations, or a work event such as a BBQ for your employees. It is a community asset intended to enhance community life in Shetland, in particular over the summer.”
Anyone who wants to use the trailer needs to ensure they have the correct health and hygiene certificates in place, and if they are selling to the public a street traders’ licence must be obtained.
The SFAD team will also be taking the trailer to the Royal Highland Show in June to serve the best of Shetland produce to around 200,000 visitors.
Meanwhile, SFAD membership has reached a new record level of 105 having broken into triple figures for the first time last year.
SFAD manager Claire White said the vast majority of members had renewed for 2022. A total of 22 brand new businesses and organisations, ranging from eateries and producers to industry bodies, tourism guides and accommodation providers, have signed up.
“It’s really heartening that so many businesses and organisations recognise the value in being part of a collective that strives to enable our members to continue improving the way Shetland’s food and drink is produced and promoted across the board,” she said.
“If you’d like to join this year then there’s still time. Signing up is a simple process that only takes a few minutes, and we’d encourage anyone that’s keen to take a look at the details on our website.”
• Anyone interested in hiring the trailer can get in touch with the SFAD team via the contact section of its website or by emailing [email protected].