A well-known Speyside bakery business has been recognised with one of the UK’s top business honours.
Walker’s Shortbread has received the King’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade, an award that recognises the family-owned company’s commercial growth in markets around the world.
Presentation at Aberlour House
The award was presented at a ceremony at Aberlour House in Speyside on August 26.
Andrew Simpson, Lord-Lieutenant of Banffshire, presented the commemorative crystal trophy on behalf of His Majesty The King.
Walker’s is one of only eight Scottish businesses to receive a King’s Award this year.
The company said the latest recognition is the fifth time it has been honoured for export achievements, making it the most awarded food brand in the history of the International Trade category.
Walker’s employs more than 1,400 people in the Highlands and exports its shortbread and other bakery products to almost 100 countries worldwide.
Founded in Aberlour, Speyside, 128 years ago, the business remains family-owned. In 2024, Walker’s Shortbread was granted a Royal Warrant of Appointment by His Majesty The King.
Company reaction
Nicky Walker, managing director at Walker’s Shortbread, said: “It was both a privilege and an honour to welcome the Lord-Lieutenant of Banffshire to Aberlour House and officially receive The King’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade.
“This is a proud milestone for Walker’s Shortbread, and it is a testament to the unwavering dedication of our entire team to uphold the standards of quality and innovation that my family has stood for since my great-grandfather started the business.
“From our home in Speyside, we have taken the finest Scottish baking to the world.
“This award celebrates not only our commercial success but also our role as ambassadors for Scottish craftsmanship.”
Andrew Simpson, Lord-Lieutenant of Banffshire, said: “It was a great pleasure to present this award to Walker’s Shortbread.
“While this prestigious accolade officially recognises their outstanding international trade success, Walker’s also remains a cornerstone of our local community.
“Their continued growth is a brilliant achievement for the entire company based here in Speyside.”
The award adds another national honour for the company as it continues to build its international presence from its base in Moray’s Speyside area.