Strachan Craft Butchers, with shops located in Blantyre, Larkhall, and East Kilbride, has received national acclaim at the 2025 Scottish Craft Butchers Awards. The esteemed butchery secured two silver awards in the Scottish Craft Butchers Steak Pie & Speciality Meat Pie Evaluation for their exceptional culinary creations. Specifically, Strachan Craft Butchers earned recognition for both their Steak & Pork Sausage Pie and their Steak & Beef Sausage Pie, showcasing their dedication to quality and craftsmanship.

The evaluation heats took place at Forth Valley College last month, where an impressive panel of judges assessed more than 140 pies submitted from various butchers across the country. The pies were rigorously tested based on several critical criteria, including appearance, flavour, texture, and overall appeal. The judging panel comprised industry experts, respected food writers, and discerning consumers, all of whom expressed their admiration for the high quality, innovation, and skill demonstrated in each entry.

The annual event is meticulously organized by Scottish Craft Butchers in collaboration with key partners, William Sword and Dalziel Retail Butchery. Danny Upson, Sales and Marketing Director for Dalziel Retail Butchery, who proudly sponsors the Speciality Meat Pie evaluation, commented on their involvement, stating, “We are thrilled to sponsor the Specialty Meat Pie Competition! For a century, we’ve been dedicated to inspiring retail butchers with innovative solutions, empowering them to thrive in a competitive landscape.”

Nikki McDowell from William Sword Ltd, sponsors of the Traditional Steak Pie Evaluation, also shared her sentiments, emphasizing their commitment to Scottish culinary heritage. “At William Sword Ltd, we are proud to continue supporting the rich traditions of Scottish food culture, and there’s nothing more iconic than the steak pie,” she remarked. McDowell further added, “Sponsoring the Traditional Steak Pie Awards allows us to celebrate the skill, quality, and passion of butchers and bakers across the country who keep this timeless favourite at the heart of family tables. It’s an honour to recognise the craftsmanship that goes into every pie.”