Scotland’s summer season of farm shows is more than just family fun and livestock. As Drummond Laurie Director Margaret Bunyan writes, they are a vital part of the fabric of farming life and rural communities.
Farm shows: Showcasing farming as a way of life, not just a business
Farming is a way of life, not just a business and agricultural shows are the opportunity to celebrate the people who dedicate themselves to the sector. For everyone at Drummond Laurie Chartered Accountants, the annual calendar of farm shows is a highlight as generations of farming families and local communities come together.
Amongst the prize-winning livestock and agricultural machinery, you can’t help but sense the pride and passion of everyone involved. Preserving local traditions and strengthening rural communities has always been part and parcel of farm shows. But they have taken on an increasing importance as the agricultural sector continues to face many challenges.
Drummond Laurie has always been proud to play a part in supporting these events each year. For us, it is just part of who we are as a business, built on the foundations of the communities that have supported us for over a decade. In 2026, we enjoyed having a stand at the Drymen and Stirling show, as well as sponsoring the Doune and Dunblane show and the upcoming Braco show.
Celebrating the achievements of the Scottish agricultural community
Agriculture has always been about relationships. When we chat to people at local shows, the conversations are rarely about business alone. They are about families and the challenges and achievements within the sector. These events provide a valuable opportunity for everyone connected with rural life to come together, share experiences and celebrate agriculture and rural life.
Members of the Drummond Laurie team at the 2026 Stirling farm show. From left to right: Craig Clinton, Ian Bilsland, Sophie McCormack, Evie Martin, Caitlin Fulton, and Margaret Bunyan.
There is nothing better than catching up with familiar faces, talking to exhibitors and meeting new people. Every show reminds us just how close-knit and supportive the local farming community remains.
Recognising the volunteers who make our local farm shows happen
As someone who knows what it takes behind the scenes to put on a farm show, I am always humbled by the enormous effort that goes into making them a success. Agricultural shows rely on the dedication of committees, volunteers, judges, stewards and countless others who generously give their time throughout the year. Much of that work often goes unnoticed, but without it these much-loved events would not happen.
Supporting local agricultural shows has always meant a great deal to me. I have had the privilege of serving as Treasurer of Braco Show for many years. It continues to be a role that allows me to give back to a sector and community that have been such an important part of my life. I love seeing the commitment of volunteers and witnessing the enthusiasm of exhibitors and visitors each year.
Understanding the realities facing the agricultural sector
As chartered accountants working with farming businesses and rural enterprises from our Grangemouth and Perth offices, Drummond Laurie understands that every year brings its own opportunities and challenges. Whether conversations are about the impact of world events, succession planning or diversification, the best advice always starts with understanding the people behind the business. There really is no substitute for spending time with the farming community away from the office to understand the realities facing them and the wider agricultural sector.
To everyone preparing for the remaining shows, we wish you the very best of luck.
A genuine partner to Scottish farming families and the agricultural sector
The agricultural team at Drummond Laurie Chartered Accountants have a wealth of knowledge and experience supporting and advising farming families and agricultural businesses in Scotland. Our approach is built on deep relationships with our clients that are based on trust and respect.
For an informal chat about how Drummond Laurie could support your agricultural business, please contact Margaret Bunyan.
Connect with Drummond Laurie Chartered Accountants on LinkedIn, Facebook and X
About the Author
Margaret Bunyan qualified as a Chartered Accountant with the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland (ICAS) in 2009 and has built a wealth of experience advising owner-managed, family-run businesses. A specialist in the agricultural sector, Margaret is also Drummond Laurie’s Director of Training and Compliance, overseeing the training and progression of all ICAS and ACCA trainees.
Connect with Margaret on LinkedIn.