T. Connor Butcher in Troon won two Gold Awards at the 2026 Scottish Craft Butcher Awards. The West Portland Street business impressed judges in the Scottish Craft Butchers Beef Burger Championship and the 30-Minute Ready Meal Championship, taking Gold for its Steak Burger and Gold for its Lasagne.
Judged in Stirling
The championships were judged at Forth Valley College, Stirling, and attracted entries from butchers across Scotland competing to produce the country's best handcrafted beef burgers and convenient, high-quality ready meals. Products were assessed on taste, appearance, texture, consistency and overall quality.
The awards were presented at a regional meeting at Garfield House Hotel, Stepps, organised by Scottish Craft Butchers.
Industry praise
Scottish Craft Butchers Executive Manager Gordon King praised the standard of entries this year. He said: “These competitions highlight the exceptional talent within Scotland’s craft butchery industry. Whether producing the perfect beef burger or creating convenient ready meals packed with flavour and quality ingredients, our members continue to innovate while maintaining the highest standards of craftsmanship.”
He added: “The award winners have demonstrated exactly why consumers continue to value and support their local butcher.”
Sponsors comment
Sally Taylor, Marketing and Communications Manager at Dalesman, sponsors of the Beef Burger Championship, said: “A great beef burger looks simple, but anyone in the industry knows just how much expertise goes into getting it right. The award winners should be immensely proud of their achievements, which reflect a commitment to quality, consistency and craftsmanship.”
Ian J. McVicar of Scotweigh, sponsors of the 30 Minute Ready Meal Championship, added: “Consumers continue to look for the convenience of a quick meal without compromising on quality, and Scotland’s craft butchers are leading the way by producing fresh, delicious ready meals that make everyday mealtimes easier.”
Other local results
Other local results included AD Paton in Largs receiving a Gold Award for Beef Lasagne and a Silver Award for Steak Burger, while Alex Bicket Ltd in Kilwinning received a Silver Award for Beef Burgers and Prime Cuts in Ayr received a Silver Award for Braised Feather Blade of Beef in Rich Chasseur Sauce.
This latest success reinforces T Connor’s reputation for producing award-winning food using quality ingredients, traditional skills and a passion for innovation.
