This paper gives ‘an insider's view’ of the Scottish processed food manufacturing industry, through the eyes of the Managing Director and Chairman of a distinctive family company sited midway between Aberdeen and Inverness on the banks of the River Spey.

In 1946 the company employed a mere 11 people, and manufactured only preserves and beetroot products, having an annual sales value of £40,000. Today a wide range of products is sold in over 60 countries with an annual turnover approaching £20 million and a profit of £1–5 million.

Forty years ago there were more than 20 jam making companies in Scotland; and in the United Kingdom more than 30 manufacturers of canned soups. Today there are only 5 of the former category and 5 of the latter making and selling their own brands. What has happened in these 40 years? Some answers are given to that question and an outline of the way ahead is presented.