The Scottish Wholesale Association (SWA) is asking wholesalers to share their trading trajectory over the past four weeks as part of an important data-gathering exercise that will help further reiterate to the Scottish Government the importance of the wholesale food and drink supply channel.

Wholesalers across Scotland are being urged to complete a short online survey about how their business has changed in recent weeks as a direct result of the coronavirus pandemic.

The SWA has strengthened its relationship with the Scottish Government during the Covid-10 crisis with chief executive Colin Smith in daily contact with ministers and key officials to ensure that any problems and challenges facing wholesalers are flagged up at the earliest opportunity.

Colin Smith explained: “We’ve been forging very strong links with the Scottish Government over the last year to 18 months and we are extremely grateful to Fergus Ewing MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Rural Economy and Tourism, for listening to us and taking the time to learn more about the wholesale sector.

“As the ‘wheels’ of the supply chain it is important that we share insight and present it to the Scottish Government so together we can guide and support members through these tough and challenging times.”

Smith added: “It is crucial that we understand what the ‘new’ Scottish wholesale marketplace looks like and where support is most needed – the information provided by our members will strengthen our call to the Scottish Government for quick intervention in providing greater assistance to the wholesale channel where and when required.

“We can also use that information to help the Government make informed decisions that will benefit the wholesale industry and the wider food and drink sector.”

The survey, Smith added, will also enable the SWA to chart its history before, during and after the Covid-19 crisis.

Wholesalers are urged to complete and return the survey as soon as possible.

Take the survey here.