GLASGOW’S food and drink heroes are being celebrated for their efforts during the coronavirus pandemic as part of VisitScotland’s Only in Scotland campaign.

The national tourism organisation is optimistic e-commerce can help get city’s sector through the toughest year ever, as businesses across Scotland report a rise in demand for online orders.The aim is to encourage Scots to rediscover the unique experiences on offer here, following the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Overtone, a Glasgow brewery founded in 2018, is taking part in the Food and Drink fortnight, which is running until Sunday, September 20.

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The festival celebrates Scottish food and drink heroes who supplied groceries during lockdown as well as provide recipe ideas online, virtual cooking classes and tasting sessions while people were at home.

James Kidd, head of sales at Overtone said: “The last six months have been very busy, our sales are up on last year.

“We have had to constantly change how we package our beer. The key business instantly stopped when the pubs shut and the can and online market went a bit crazy overnight. We were able to adapt due to canning on site and have since had to return to kegging as can sales have dropped back again.

“Being granted our off sales licence helped massively giving us a much-needed income stream. We are lucky enough to package on site, so we were able to adapt the business with very few bottlenecks.”

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Jim Clarkson, Regional Leadership Director (west) VisitScotland, said: “Glasgow has world-class local produce and brands that not only sell all over the world, but enhances our tourism product to visitors here at home.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has had a devasting impact on the tourism and events industry. However, our sector has shown great resilience to rise to the most challenging year we have ever had, and to adapt and innovate to new ways of reaching customers.

“Online sales and deliveries can provide opportunities in new markets, as well as added convenience for existing clients. Being able to buy products and goods all year round even when visitors are not on holiday is a great way to generate more income.”