Scottish Craft Butchers has invited producers from across the globe to present their finest version of the haggis at the World Haggis Championship 2025.
Staged by SCB, the event, which is held on 11th May in Perth, will build on the success of the first ever search for the world’s best held in 2023.
SCB executive manager Gordon King said the search for the world’s best haggis would see some of the finest producers gather to do battle: “Haggis is a dish enjoyed by the Scottish diaspora throughout the world and there are a lot of experts out there producing some truly amazing products.
“We’re inviting them to go head-to-head in a bid to secure what is seen as the ultimate accolade among haggis producers.
“Scottish Craft Butchers is delighted to host the second World Haggis Championship, and the industry is already buzzing with excitement about the event. Every haggis recipe is unique – some dating back generations.
“This is the title everyone wants, and we look forward to some fierce competition, inspiring talent and outstanding haggises.”
“Becoming world champions transformed our business.”
Laura Black, SCB
Laura Black of independent craft butchers Coopers of Bellshill lifted the inaugural trophy two years ago, and is keen to retain the title of reigning champion.
Black said: “The demand for our haggis allowed us to expand and build a new unit for wholesale manufacturing. Becoming world champions transformed our business.”
Now the president of SCB, Black encouraged haggis producers to be a part of the competition: “If you make haggis that you and your customers think is a winner, then throw your hat into the ring and – who knows – you could be a world champion.”
The competition is staged as part of the SCB Trade Fair – a biennial event attended by butchers from across the UK. So, the World Haggis Champion will hold the crown for two years.
Laura Black continued: “We’re looking for a 500g traditional Scottish haggis in ball shape. We’re not looking for speciality products that shift away from the traditional fare. Judges will be looking at appearance, flavour, texture, and the true rustic nature of our national dish.”
Judges will select five regional winners from within SCB members before including all-comers in the battle for the world title, along with two runners-up. All entrants must produce and retail haggis and meet other terms and conditions laid down by the competition.
Grampian Oat Products returns as sponsors of the 2025 event.
Managing director of Grampian Oat Products Alan Meikle said: “We’re proud to be back sponsoring the World Haggis Championship.
“It’s wonderful to see that the tradition of haggis making continues to thrive, and we are proud to supply the very best oats to Scotland’s craft butchers.
“Every butcher’s recipe is unique and a closely guarded secret, and this tradition, passion and creativity make this competition so exciting. We’re looking forward to seeing and tasting all the entries and, of course, to announcing the results in Perth on 11th May.”
