Brodie Countryfare wins top Moray business award
Brodie Countryfare has been named the winner of the Main Business Award at the Moray Chamber of Commerce’s annual business dinner.
The Forres-based family business received the award at the 21st annual dinner, held at Gordon Castle on Friday, October 2.
The award recognises a business that has made a significant contribution to the Moray economy.
It comes in a landmark year for Brodie Countryfare, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary.
The business was founded in 1976 by Kathleen Duncan, initially selling Scottish farm produce, gifts and food.
It has since grown into a major retail and hospitality destination, employing more than 120 people across its retail, hospitality, food, management, marketing, buying and customer service operations.
Some members of staff have been with the business for more than 20 years.
Brodie has continued to invest in its Moray operation over the past five decades.
A major 12,500 sq ft extension was completed in 2014, creating a 300-seat restaurant and additional retail space.
The expansion also helped increase the workforce from 85 employees to more than 120.
The business works with local and Scottish producers, tradespeople and service providers, while attracting visitors from across Scotland, the UK and overseas.
Its foodhall, restaurant, fashion and gift departments feature a wide range of Scottish brands, while its online operation now delivers products across the UK.
Brodie also has a long history of supporting the local community and charities, including its longstanding relationship with The Archie Foundation.
The business has carried out further fundraising activity as part of its 50th anniversary celebrations.
Sarah Medcraf, chief executive of Moray Chamber of Commerce, said the award recognised Brodie’s contribution over five decades.
She said: “Brodie Countryfare is a brilliant example of what sustained, family-owned business success looks like in Moray.
“For 50 years they have employed local people, invested in their business, supported suppliers, attracted visitors into our region and continued to evolve while remaining very firmly rooted in Moray.”
She added that the company’s “long-term impact” was a key factor in the decision.
Accepting the award, Brodie Countryfare managing director Anna Taylor said it was recognition of the company’s staff, customers and suppliers.
She said: “This award is a wonderful recognition of our incredible team, our loyal customers, our suppliers and everyone who has supported Brodie throughout our 50 years.
“Moray has such a strong and diverse business community with so many inspiring businesses and organisations.
“To be recognised alongside those businesses is a real privilege.”
Around 400 people from across Moray’s business community attended the annual dinner at Gordon Castle.