Ten years ago, the Black Isle Farmers Society quietly signed a pledge that would set a new standard for markets across the country.
In 2015, the organisers of the Black Isle Show joined The Real Deal Scheme a voluntary charter created with Highland Council Trading Standards to promise visitors one simple thing: a show free from counterfeit and illicit goods.
It might sound like a small detail.
In reality, it’s a commitment that has shaped the show’s reputation for a decade.
The Real Deal campaign is part of a national effort led by the UK’s National Market Group.
Its goal is to celebrate and support markets that do things the right way championing fair trade, protecting shoppers and giving legitimate local businesses the platform they deserve.
David MacKenzie, Trading Standards Manager at Highland Council, believes the Black Isle Show sets an example others could follow.
“The Black Isle Show has been a fantastic example of how local events can uphold strong trading standards,” he says.
“Their continued participation in the Real Deal Scheme sends a clear message that counterfeit and illicit trading will not be tolerated and that’s a win for shoppers, traders and the community alike.”
That sense of pride is echoed nationally. Patricia Lennon, who manages the Real Deal campaign, describes the milestone as a moment worth celebrating.
“Reaching the 10‑year milestone is a testament to the Black Isle Show’s dedication to consumer protection and supporting legitimate businesses,” she says.
“They’ve shown how a strong commitment to safe and fair trading can become part of a vibrant event experience that benefits everyone.”
Over the past decade, this quiet promise has allowed the Black Isle Show to grow with confidence.
Visitors know that when they browse the bustling stalls, watch livestock competitions or take in the fairground atmosphere, they can do so knowing the goods they are buying are genuine.
It’s a commitment that matters as much to the traders as it does to the thousands who flock through the gates each August.
Fiona MacIntosh, secretary of the Black Isle Show, says the scheme has become part of the show’s DNA.
“We’re delighted to have been part of the Real Deal for ten years,” she explains.
“Our involvement reflects our ongoing commitment to high standards and a welcoming environment where visitors can browse and buy with complete peace of mind.”
That peace of mind has helped the Black Isle Show maintain its place as one of Scotland’s most loved agricultural events.
Each summer, Muir of Ord becomes the backdrop for a celebration of rural life, where livestock parades share the spotlight with artisan food, local crafts and family entertainment.
This year will be no exception.
On Thursday 8 August, the showgrounds will open once again with an exciting line‑up of exhibits, competitions and live demonstrations.
From the spectacle of heavy horses to the hum of machinery displays, from children’s entertainment to local produce, the Black Isle Show continues to bridge tradition and modernity in one vibrant day.
And woven quietly through it all is that promise made a decade ago a promise to keep the experience safe, fair and trustworthy for everyone who walks through the gates.
The Black Isle Show has always been about more than livestock and trade stands.
It’s about community, trust and pride in doing things right.
And after ten years of keeping it real, it’s clear that promise is stronger than ever.
