AADA Director receives lifetime achievement award

The managing director of Taste of Arran and Arran Dairies has been presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award, for services to the ice cream industry.

Alastair Dobson was decorated by the sector's trade association, the Ice Cream Alliance (ICA), and was presented the Marvin Benton Award by celebrity chef Gennaro Contaldo.

It is in recognition of his achievements during a 23-year career in the sector and is the highest honour that the ICA can bestow.

“I was stunned and surprised when I heard that the Board of the Ice Cream Alliance had decided to present me with the Marvin Benton Award,” explained Dobson.

“Having been lucky to meet Marvin before he died prematurely, he was such a helpful and passionate person who was generous with his time for anyone that needed a bit of help. When I look at the many previous winners who I hold in the highest esteem, it is very humbling to be in such company.”

This lifetime achievement award was created in memory of Marvin Benton, past president of the ICA, who died in 2004. It has been awarded to someone each year since in recognition of their outstanding work for the industry and the ICA.

It is presented to people within the ice cream industry who have worked tirelessly for the good of the ICA, but not always been in the spotlight.

Dobson added: “I love the ice cream industry and the people who work in it. I have been extremely lucky to have met so many knowledgeable and passionate people who have helped me to develop our Arran Ice Cream business.

"The ice cream industry is in an enviable position in that in this world of many challenges we collectively can provide many people with an affordable treat.”

Dobson comes from a farming background and studied agriculture at college. He returned to the family business in the mid-eighties to help establish Arran Dairies where he is now managing director. He is also managing director of Taste of Arran Ltd.

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