Craig McFarlane has traded a career in the financial services sector in Edinburgh for running his own cycle repair business.
Based at Stirling Enterprise Park, Craig first picked up a taste for mechanics while working part-time for Halfords whilst at university.

Working from home initially, Craig soon built up the business and gradually reduced his working days in Edinburgh. The need for premises soon became necessary and, after finding workspace at Stirling Enterprise Park, the operation became a full-time venture on 1^st June this year, employing one member of staff. 

As well as picking up a lot of work servicing bikes for Stirling Triathlon Club, Craig has also picked up a contract to maintain and repair the bicycle hire fleet at Loch Katrine.  He also trains staff there in basic repairs and supplying new bikes. 

Business Start-Up Adviser, Jim Fraser, has been working with the business providing advice and assistance on issues such as online parts sales, stock control systems and providing guidance on employing staff.  

He commented:  “Craig has gone about setting up his business in exactly the right way.  His measured approach to building up a customer base while continuing to bring in some income from his Edinburgh job has reduced the risk factor considerably.  He also has the enthusiasm and commitment to make a success of the business.”

Craig recently agreed to feature in a Business Gateway radio advertising campaign which ran for six weeks on Central FM during September.  In November, Craig will also feature in a local newspaper advertising campaign featuring Business Gateway services.

Stirling Cycle Repairs Ltd, Unit 115 Stirling Enterprise Park, John Player Building, STIRLING  FK7 7RP  Tel:  01786 451559  E-mail info@stirlingcyclerepairs.co.uk  Web:  www.stirlingcyclerepairs.co.uk 

Stirling firm has designs on London 2012 Olympic Games

A Stirling Enterprise (STEP) Business Gateway Growth Pipeline client will have their creative handiwork on display for the world to see in the run up to and during the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Vizibility Design Limited has been commissioned to create an identity that will support a ground-breaking four year programme – spearheaded by Volunteer Development Scotland - that seeks to connect the people of Scotland with the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games through volunteering.

People making Waves is a key component of The Scottish Project, the Legacy Trust UK’s Scottish regional project, which is also supported by Scottish Arts Council National Lottery Fund.

Vizibility are currently developing brand guidelines for the initiative and will be involved in bringing the brand to life through four ‘waves’ of legacy activity which will be aimed at engaging with organisations and individuals across the country.  It is hoped the programme will go beyond London 2012 and will be used in Glasgow 2014.

The four aspects of People Making Waves are:

A Scottish Wave of Change (led by Demos Associate, Gerry Hassan) – will engage people in the democratic development possibilities of the Olympic Movement).

Make A Splash! (led by Voluntary Arts Network, operating as Voluntary Arts Scotland) – an information and awareness programme supported by small grants to encourage local participation in voluntary arts and cultural groups).

My Volunteering (led by Volunteer Development Scotland) – an online resource for volunteers enabling them to create and record their volunteering experiences and learning, before, during and after the Games in 2012.

The Wave of Friendship (led by Greater London Volunteering) – a volunteer exchange programme between London and Scotland.

Scott Dickson from Vizibility Design stated: “In addition to the branding and marketing work we do in the local Stirling market we operate on a National level with a number of different organisations and campaigns.  People Making Waves is a multi-level initiative which has the potential to make a real difference and will enable us to use our own creative skills to ensure it really stands out.  We look forward to working with Volunteer Development Scotland as it moves forward.”

For further information contact Vizibility Design Limited on Tel: 01786 469023 
E-mail: sdickson@vizibilitydesign.co.uk  or log on to the website:  www.vizibilitydesign.co.uk  

BURNING AMBITION HELPS STIRLING
STOVE FIRM GET ESTABLISHED

Launching a new business just as a credit crunch is starting to bite is not for the faint hearted. 

But out of adversity springs opportunity for those enterprising individuals with a well researched business plan and the confidence and determination to take the plunge and make it work.

Newly opened, Stirling Stove Centre, based at Unit 5, Munro Road, Springkerse Industrial Estate, is one such business that is bucking the trend and actually benefiting from a renewed sense of cost consciousness amongst consumers.

With fluctuating energy prices – and a continuing push for householders to reduce their carbon footprint – wood burning and multi-fuel stoves are back in vogue and local business man, Ewen Todd, has observed the trend and seized the opportunity.

With over 40 stoves, 3 of which are working in the showroom, Stirling Stove Centre opened to the public in September 2008. 

Specialising solely in wood burning and multi-fuel stoves, the business stocks a wide range of makes and models from long established industry favourites such as Aga, Rayburn, Jotul, Morso, Parkray, Stovax, Charnwood and Euroheat to newer manufacturers such as Wilson Bailey. As well as the large range of stoves there is also a large selection of fireside accessories, log baskets and flue systems. Stirling Stove Centre is also the exclusive stockists for Ferguson’s Coal house doubles, premium and surefire all of which are held in stock.   

Stoves are available with heat output ranging from 3kw up to 40kw, the firm cater not only for the domestic market – but also for commercial and industrial settings.  And with fairly swift payback on installations, it’s clear to see why the cost savings are attractive.

Ewen explains:  “As a rough calculation, it is possible to achieve payback within two years of installing a wood burning or multi-fuel stove – especially true when the option of using a stove with a back boiler integrated with the central heating or hot water supply, leading to considerable cost savings for the long term.

“The installation of a basic unit, which is handled by partner companies that we work closely with, is surprisingly straightforward and can be taken care of within a few days with minimal fuss.

“An exciting development, allowing us to further penetrate the marketplace, is our ability to supply stoves with minimal emissions that can be installed and used in ‘smoke controlled zones’.  These are DEFRA approved.  They allow households who previously thought they couldn’t have a wood burning or multi-fuel stove installed, to take that step.”

Like a lot of businesses operating in today’s marketplace, Ewen has to compete against a raft of competitors across the country who sell direct to the public via the internet.  While offering customers cheaper prices, Ewen is keen to stress that having a local presence through readily accessible and identifiable premises, for him, is preferable.  He continues:

“We place great importance on the fact that we have a base, that customers can visit the showroom, enjoy a cup of coffee, ask us questions and even phone us up with any additional queries they might have on the spec of a product.  We welcome that interaction.  When purchasing a stove, the aesthetics as well as the functionality of the product is equally important.  So too is the comfort of the knowledge that there is an aftercare and warranty agreement in place with a local supplier that you know by name.   When you are selling high quality products, it makes sense that the service the customer receives mirrors these standards at all stages of the buying journey.”

As a new start business operating in the Stirling area, Ewen has been able to access a wide range of free advice and information from Stirling Enterprise (STEP) Business Gateway.  Advice of employing staff, health and safety, sales training and IT have been beneficial in helping the business get off on the right footing.

Stirling Stove Centre Ltd.  Unit 5, 10 Munro Road, Springkerse Industrial Estate, Stirling FK7 7UU.  Tel: 01786 440028 or E-mail: info@stirlingstovecentre.co.uk  Web: www.stirlingstovecentre.co.uk

ART, WHISKY & GIFTS PROVE THE RIGHT BLEND FOR
NEW DRYMEN GALLERY

GOOD TASTE will soon be a word synonymous with the village of Drymen, by Loch Lomond - and for a combination of reasons.

Ealain Gallery, already a respected name in the Scottish art business, has put down roots in the village’s main street, finding a permanent home after two years on the road promoting and exhibiting contemporary Scottish art across the country.

Having opened to the public on Saturday, 15^th November and with a stellar line up of artists poised to exhibit this Christmas including Joe Hendry, Mark Holden, Donald MacDonald, Steve Johnston, Dot Walker, Iona Crawford, Ricky Wiatrek, Ritchie Collins and others, the gallery looks set to draw the crowds this festive period.

Not content with providing a feast for the eyes in the form of the established Scottish artists and emerging talent that they plan to showcase, June and Cameron McCann, will, from January 2009, add a whisky gallery, offering something to whet the palette of enthusiasts.

The gallery will hold regular whisky tasting and master classes, bringing experts from the industry to pass on their knowledge and enthusiasm with whisky selected from their own range.

June McCann explains: “With these fabulous roomy premises, it seemed a natural progression to add another dimension to the business.  And in what better form than whisky?  Ealain Gallery will hold up and celebrate two of Scotland’s finest achievements.  We have a tradition of talented Scottish artists – and our Whisky is held in high esteem the world over.  Why not allow customers direct access to the two under one roof?

Being located in such close proximity to Loch Lomond and in the heart of the National Park, the business is ideally placed.  With tourists flocking to the location throughout the summer season and with Glasgow and Stirling a stone’s throw away, the gallery is guaranteed footfall.

Adding quality crafts and gifts to the equation in the form of ceramics by Alex Johannsen, glass by Zoe Gadsby and pottery by John Macguire as well as bags, jewellery, cards and children’s and baby toys means also that there is plenty to sustain the appetite of visitors and locals as well.

*Ealain (Gaelic word for ‘art’) – the name also reflects June’s Gaelic speaking family connections.
 

Ealain Gallery, 36 – 42 Main Street, Drymen, G63 0BG.  Tel: 01360 660996 
E-mail: info@ealaingallery.com  Web: www.ealaingallery.com

SMALL BUSINESS LOAN SCHEME FOR
VETERANS IN SCOTLAND HITS THE MARK

A new small business loan scheme aimed at ex servicemen and women in Scotland made its first award recently.

Denise Ward, from Stirling, received £3,500 from Poppyscotland to help get her pet boarding business, Pet Royale Limited, off the ground.

The loan has enabled Denise to purchase vital pet transportation equipment, to create a corporate identity for the business, to advertise her services and covered the cost of public and employer’s liability insurance.

Denise, who served in the Royal Air Force for six years between 1972 and 1978, learned of the Scheme when she e-mailed the Royal British Legion.  They passed her on to the Head of Charitable services in Scotland, who then adopted Denise as their “guinea pig” for their brand new Scottish loan fund.

A condition of receiving the loan was the need to attend a business start-up training workshop, which brought in to contact with Stirling Enterprise (STEP) - her local Business Gateway service provider.   A decision that Denise is glad she made.

She commented:  “After serving in the airforce, I then went on to qualify as a solicitor.  However, when it comes to getting started in business, no matter how knowledgeable you are, there is still so much to learn and consider.  By attending the Business Gateway Start-Up training course at STEP – as well as accessing a range of free advice, information and training workshops - I was able to meet a variety of people, with similar goals and aspirations as myself.” 

Denise describes Pet Royale, which has now been up and running for three months, as a kind of half-way house between kennels and home, where the pet is placed with a carefully selected ‘home boarder’ and enjoys a home environment while their owner is on holiday. 

Placements can range from a one-day stay to two weeks or longer.

The idea grew from Denise’s own experience of boarding pets herself as part of a similar enterprise south of the border.

With forward bookings running well in to next year, Denise is now actively recruiting home boarders to care for pets in the Forth Valley area.

Contact Pet Royale Limited on Tel:  05600 981 720 Mobile:  07876303700 or log on to the website
www.pet-royale.co.uk

Alison Patrick of Killearn-based In House Gas Manufacturing Ltd is one such advocate of the maxim.

Having trained as a Town Planner before marrying and moving to west Stirlingshire to settle, she then found work as a Sales Administrator working for a small local firm specialising in the design and assembly of gas generators.

Two years down the line, she is now co-owner of the firm, heads up a team of seven employees and is about to embark on ambitious plans to extensively grow the businesses home and international interests.

Alison Patrick commented: “The business is presently ticking over nicely. We have a clean, reliable range of products and enjoy a high percentage of repeat business supplying to laboratories, university departments and into the food industry.

“We are currently supplying product across the UK as well as overseas into Canada, Egypt, Syria and Iran.

Going forward, the In House team have their sights set on a focussed sales strategy.

This will centre on harnessing the expertise of re-sellers and distributors across the world as well as utilising scientific re-sale as a market entry point.

The industrial market has been identified as ripe for development and there are plans to target the oil, food and drink industries and drive forward the sale of larger generator products.

This move makes sense with products ranging in price from £1,700 for a small generator up to £100k for the largest product offering.

There are plans also to capitalise on one of the businesses key strengths – service.

Alison continues: “In House Gas provides a dedicated installation and service team to ensure that complete support is offered from the planning stage through to installation and annual service. The business also has the capability to provide bespoke systems for special projects.”

For further information contact Alison Patrick, In House Gas (Manufacturing) Ltd on Tel: 01360 551 600 or E-mail: info@inhousegas.com or visit the website www.inhousegas.com

In-House Gas (Manufacturing) Ltd is a Stirling Enterprise (STEP) Business Gateway 'Growth Pipeline' client.  With aspirations to grow the business and significantly increase turnover within the next 3 years, the business is receiving specialist advice and support to aid the growth process.

May 2008

BABY YOU’RE THE 1 !

STIRLING NURSERY SHOWROOM
OFF TO A FLYING START  

Birthday celebrations are in full swing at Stirling’s newest nursery showroom.

To mark the occasion, he invited a very special young guest to take centre stage in the celebrations in the form of 6-month old baby Grace. Grace’s parents were one of the first customers through the doors when the showroom first opened to the public last year.

The nursery showroom boasts 3,000 sq ft of quality furniture, prams, buggies, car seats and accessories.

Since opening, Baby Central, based at Munro Road, Springkerse Industrial Estate, has been winning favour amongst customers, not just for its extensive range of nursery products, but also for its friendly and knowledgeable staff and unparalleled aftercare service.

Talking about the decision to start up in business, Managing Director, Murray Allan commented:  “My wife and I – as parents ourselves - recognised an opportunity within the Central Belt to offer customers an entirely different baby and toddler shopping experience.

“Our premises are bright, airy and welcoming, with plenty of room for people to walk around, take their time, ask questions and try products for size – if need be.

“We offer excellent parking facilities, allowing customers the opportunity to ensure that prams can be erected and dismantled with ease and are compatible with car boot space. We also offer a car seat fitting and checking service.

“We really have tried to take a holistic approach to the business, ensuring every aspect of the customer journey is a positive and memorable one.”

The couple’s instincts have been well founded and rewarded, with customers travelling from across central Scotland – and beyond – to visit the showroom.

The businesses 1st birthday also coincides with the launch of a revamped website with online product purchasing facility (www.baby-central.co.uk).

Via the website, customers will be able to choose from over 500 product lines.

There are also plans in the pipeline for an online facility for new parents to upload and e-mail their baby photographs to friends and relatives all over the world - along with a Baby Central gift list.

Business Gateway Start-Up Adviser, Frank Dunne commented:  “Murray and the rest of the Baby Central team should be proud of their achievements. Together, they have established a credible business, which in terms of profile, is becoming a ‘must visit’ baby shopping destination. Judging by their performance to date - and their web-based development plans to capture the wider marketplace - they will have another busy year ahead of them."

For further information contact Murray Allan, Baby Central on Tel: 01786 448 202 or e-mail murray@baby-central.co.uk www.baby-central.co.uk

The Tea Room Scotland Ltd, is based within - what should be - Joanne and her husband's living room within their beautiful 5-bedroom home in Braehead, Stirling. And if this conjures up images of a small, cosy space with the teapot always boiling, then think again.

The Tea Room is palatial with room aplenty for 49 covers as well as outdoor seating in the summer months. Tall glass windows mean that the space is light and airy and frame two of Stirling's most breathtaking views, that of the Wallace Monument and Stirling Castle.

The Tea Room has undoubtedly been a runaway success and Joanne, her husband and daughters Gillian and Nicola - who are also both hands on within the business on a full-time basis - are as surprised as anyone at how things have panned out for the family.

Joanne commented: "Like lots of people, I harboured dreams of opening my own coffee shop or tearoom over the years. But when it's an idea in your head, you have obstacles like finding suitable premises and the time to make it happen. When I retired from my job, things just seemed to fall in to place and we began to look at the viability of the project and the space that we had, literally right on our doorstep. As the plan firmed up and permission was granted by Stirling Council, things moved along rapidly and it wasn't long before The Tea Room was open for business."

"We have lived in Braehead for 10 years and it's amazing how providing a facility for local people to come together and just pop in for a coffee or a bite of lunch helps you get to know people, who you would never have known otherwise. We have regulars now who we are on a first name basis with, we have local groups and clubs who meet here. It has also been fascinating to hear about the history of the area, from some of our older customers who grew up here in the Braehead area and have seen so many changes through the years. We are also sufficiently close to Stirling City centre that people can easily get out of the office and pop in for some lunch."

Almost one year down the line, the business now employs 10 staff and plans to continue to provide a high standard of fayre, along with excellent service. Going forward, the Kelso's are keen to utilise the space to cater for functions, having successfully done so for their first wedding party just before Christmas.

The family's efforts have been recognised not only by the local community, but by tourism agency VisitScotland, who awarded The Tea Room an Eat Scotland award within six weeks of opening.

The progress of the business has also been closely followed by local enterprise trust, Stirling Enterprise (STEP) Business Gateway, who assisted the business with start-up support and advice as well as £1k of start-up grant funding for Joanne's 30-year old daughter Gillian who is a partner in the business.

Business Start-Up Adviser, Jim Fraser commented:

"With family businesses there is sometimes the potential for things to go wrong what with different personalities and opinions and working in such close proximity, but in this instance the family has bound together well and are absolutely playing to their strengths. It says a lot also that Joanne - as one of the drivers of the project - found starting a business appealing after retiring when many people are looking forward to winding down. That type of commitment, passion and drive is admirable."

The Tea Room Scotland Ltd, Millhall Rd, Braehead, is open 7 days per week.
 

The couple are the driving force behind The Studio, in Killin, a brand new gallery which has been winning favour with tourists and locals alike since opening its doors to the paying public in August this year.
At the top end of the scale – and in something of a coup within the Scottish art selling trade – Ron has a selection of work for sale by renowned Glasgow artist, Daniel Campbell.

The gallery also stocks authenticated, signed prints by Caroline Cooke as well as watercolours by Lynne Scobbie and a unique style in acrylics by Sheila Tocker.

Silverware jewellery designed and crafted by Dennis Hollinghurst can be purchased as well as blown and kiln fired glass jewellery by Amy Christie.

The work of local wood turner, Mike Pool, also graces The Studio’s light and airy shop front premises.

In setting up their new business venture, Ron and Sheila might have taken the early starts and sheer physicality out of their working day, but the hard work ethic is something that has remained firmly in place.

The Studio is open six days a week, only closing on a Wednesday so as to ensure that weekend trade is captured. The gallery opens at 10am and closes, as Ron puts it, “when the last tourist leaves the shop.”

Ron, a keen photographer, also offers a picture framing service which operates from a ‘back room’ within the shop premises and, it is hoped, this will form the back bone of the business.

Ron Allner commented: “Sheila and I are originally from Dorchester, Dorset and, having holidayed in the Lochearn area repeatedly over the years and fallen in love with the area, made the decision to move to Lochearnhead in 2001.

“We started up a snack bar business on the busy Glen Ogle tourism stretch which was hard work – but extremely rewarding. We decided to sell the business on and assess our options when Sheila’s asthma started to get bad. The idea for opening The Studio grew from spotting vacant shop premises on Killin main street and the gut instinct that there was an opportunity to offer locals and visitors a quality art and craft experience. The change really has been like a breath of fresh air to us both.”

For further details contact: Ron & Sheila Allner, The Studio, Laurel Bank, Main Street Killin. Tel: 01567 820820 www.thestudiokillin.co.uk
 

GREEN TEAM:
Enterprising Couple Turn Environmental Interest
Into Web-Based Business Venture

An interest in environmental issues and the decision to join a village co-operative buying group to source eco-friendly products, has led Stirling couple, Richard & Sue Waite to launch Scotland’s first major web-based enterprise specialising in the sale of a range of ‘green’ household products

The business, which trades under the name www.greenessentials.co.uk is located in the heart of the Stirlingshire countryside, at Dunaverig Rural Enterprise Park, Ruskie, outside the village of Thornhill.

Visitors to the website will be able to source environmentally friendly household, bathroom, baby & child and energy saving goods. The company also specialise in hard to find products such as low energy spotlight bulbs and organic cleaning materials. Items will be delivered direct to the customer’s door within two working days of an order being placed.

In a bid to overcome the environmental impact of nationwide delivery, Richard and Sue have also come up with a Community Delivery Service. This means friends can get together to place an order. Each person’s order is individually packed, then grouped and sent to one address.

Customers get free delivery and delivery miles are reduced. The service is aimed at work colleagues, neighbours and community groups and is the first of its type in the UK.

The website is not only a shop, but has environmental news, educational resources, tips and advice and comprehensive information on everything they sell.

The motivation to start up the enterprise has grown from the couple’s desire to help people make informed choices about the purchase of day-to-day essentials and the impact that many mainstream, mass produced products have on the environment.

The couple have demonstrated their personal commitment to the green cause by agreeing to donate 12% of profits to sustainable development charities. Green Essentials also donates a percentage from the sale of certain products to the poverty-alleviation charity Practical Action.

The business venture is a marked departure from Richard and Sue’s daytime professions. Richard works in a consultancy capacity in social care and Sue works part-time in education.

Richard Waite:  “The decision to start-up this enterprise has grown out of our own lifestyle choices and research that we have undertaken to implement these changes. In that time we have found alternative products that work well, don’t damage our health, pollute the environment or massively contribute to global warming.

"Living in a rural area, we like to buy from village shops and local food producers, but it’s harder to find eco-friendly household goods. It can feel like a real chore to have to resort to the local supermarket to buy environmentally friendly products, especially as, when you get there, the choices are often poor or non-existent.

"From a commercial perspective, many supermarkets have been hesitant to venture too far down the green buying route. Their product selection is still very much driven by what looks attractive on the shelf and what has the best profit margin.

“It’s this mindset that is creating opportunities for niche practitioners like ourselves.”

From a business perspective the decision to launch the enterprise is also an astute one. The ‘organic’ – non-foods market has grown by 18 – 25% per year for the last three years, demonstrating a ‘readiness’ and growing commitment amidst the population to alter traditional buying habits.

Stirling Enterprise (STEP) Business Gateway has been instrumental in helping the Waite’s bring their web-based venture to fruition, particularly on the e-commerce front.

STEP IT Adviser Graham Lambie: “With any web based enterprise, it is imperative that the site receives traffic and that this translates into sales. We have been working with the Waites to optimize the visibility of the Green Essentials website and ensure that the business gets off to the best possible start.”

For further information, contact Richard and Sue Waite, Green Essentials on Tel: 01786 850895 E-mail: info@greenessentials.co.uk or visit the website: www.greenessentials.co.uk
 

July 2007

BALFRON’S POPPY CLUB
SET TO FLOURISH IN NEW PREMISES

The Poppy Club in Balfron reached an important milestone recently, making the smooth transition from makeshift accommodation in the local church hall into stand-alone, purpose-built premises at The Clachan.

The Club, which started up three years ago, provides out of school and holiday care for children aged four to sixteen years.

The new premises have been made possible thanks to £54,000 of funding from The Big Lottery and through grant funding from Awards For All. A considerable amount of personal investment has been ploughed into the project by club founder, Christine Davie.

Local support was also forthcoming from The Donladson Trust, who helped make the project possible by agreeing to lease the club the site, situated at the north entrance to The Donaldson Park.

The 50ft cabin, has been a labour of love for Christine who has, without doubt, been the driving force behind the 18-month long build project.

Christine commented:  "I think I can say that both the staff and children are delighted to have made the move into the cabin. We have all been following the build process with bated breath and it’s great to finally have a space that we can all call our own.

"Within the cabin, we now have designated areas, for eating, watching TV, dressing up and creativity. The children can move from area to area and enjoy the sense of space and light that the building provides.

"There is a strong feeling among the children who come to The Poppy Club that the cabin is a home-from-home, somewhere where they can enjoy spending time and feel relaxed and welcome.

"To have achieved that brings a great amount of satisfaction."

The Poppy Club provides a Breakfast Club from 8am until school time, an After School Club from 3pm to 6pm and a Holiday Club from 8am to 6pm. For more information contact Christine Davie at The Poppy Club on 01360 440454 or log onto the website www.poppyclub.com
 

June 2007

NEW BALFRON BUSINESS TAKES CLUTTER TO TASK

A new Balfron-based enterprise is throwing a lifeline to the disorganised, by offering a home and office clutter management service.

Thirty-seven year old Claudia Duncan is the brainchild behind the business idea which will trade under the name 4D Organising.

Claudia, who was born and raised in Germany, has worked in several large companies in Germany, Scotland and Australia. She started her working career as PA and moved further to financial accounting. She has gained valuable organisational and management skills in her career. She first thought of the business idea while working as an Accountant in the Finance Sector in Australia.

The birth of her two daughters and returning to Scotland, to settle in Balfron, brought an added impetus to escape the corporate world and create a business that would give the right home and work life balance.

Claudia explains:  "There is no doubt that we are today living in a much more service orientated society. We hire cleaners, employ dog walkers, have our ironing taken care of by outside agents.

"What 4D Organising will bring to the table is professional experience in office and home organising, paperwork management and de-cluttering. We provide an on-site service for small to medium sized businesses and individuals that is efficient, confidential and reliable. By employing us you will gain valuable time for your business or personal life.

"We offer all prospective clients a free 1-hour initial consultation. This provides an opportunity for both parties to get to grips with the task at hand, apply a timescale and cost."

While many people might shy away from the idea of exposing their clutter to a complete stranger and prefer to muddle through instead, Claudia is keen to stress that 4D Organising is a confidential service that can also advise and implement systems to avoid reaching crisis point.

"We provide ideas, information and structure which will help you to reduce your stress and increase your productivity. Living and working in an organised environment gives you energy for your main business and personal goals."

4D Organising is a member of the Association of Professional Declutterers and Organisers www.apdo-uk.co.uk and has full public liability insurance.

Claudia will undertake work within a 20 mile radius of the Balfron area. Travel expenses will apply to clients based outwith this locality.

For further information, contact Claudia Duncan on Tel: 01360 449 101. Mobile: 07981 768 081. E-mail: claudia@4dorganising.co.uk or log on to the website www.4dorganising.co.uk
 

June 2007

Start-Up Business Takes The Fuss Out Of Furnishing for Buy To Let & First Time Buyers

Two brothers have put their heads together and come up with a business idea designed to make life easier for first time buyers and those going into the Buy To Let market.

Not only will brothers David and Gordon Carnan deliver the furniture, they can also ensure that it is assembled, that all packaging is removed and that the property is staged and ready to welcome prospective tenants.

Packages range from £800 for a 1 Bed Property to £1,350 for a 2 Bed.

David and Gordon plan to concentrate their efforts on the Central Belt initially but are confident that as word spreads, their services will soon be in demand all over Scotland.

Gordon Carnan:

“The idea to start up the business grew from my own and David’s experiences of working in Property Development and the Buy To Let market down south. After conducting some market research, we soon realised that the Central Belt was an untapped area with huge potential. With new build properties springing up at an ever-increasing rate, Buy To Let mortgages being on the up and Stirling, in particular, having a large student population - our feeling was to strike while the iron was hot – before anyone else did.

“We want to take the time and stress element out of sourcing good quality, contemporary furniture for people and then having to wait in or take time off work for deliveries. In essence, what we are offering customers is a cost-effective, one-stop solution to their furnishing needs.”

Apartment1 started up with assistance from Stirling Enterprise (STEP) Business Gateway. The new-start business received help with business start-up advice, grant funding support, property provision, help with website development and assistance to market and promote their services.

To contact Apartment 1 Tel: 01786 450196 or e-mail info@apartment1.co.uk or visit the website www.apartment1.co.uk
 

May 2007

Her name is Helen Sturrock, she is 28 years old, and she can be found, most days, surrounded by a sea of prams, baby equipment, kids clothing, toys and books.

While many of us are only too pleased to escape the chaos and colours associated with childhood for work. For Helen, this is work.

Helen is Managing Director of a new Stirling-based community enterprise called Good Green Fun. She runs the not-for-profit company with the assistance of co-director, Dr Eric Walker, a semi-retired GP from Balfron.

Based at Stirling Enterprise Park the ethos of the organisation is simple. Instead of throwing old toys and equipment into the loft or garage - or worse still - into landfill, if it’s still in good working order, then why not donate it (via Good Green Fun) for re-sale to someone else who can still get the use out of it.

Helen Sturrock, Managing Director of Good Green Fun:

“There’s no getting away from the fact that we are today living in a disposable / throw away culture. Baby clothes and equipment are no longer passed down from sibling to sibling and from family to family – as used to happen in previous generations. Today, it’s more a case of being first to buy the latest model or style of pram or the latest ‘must have’ toy.

“When you multiply this outlook from family to family, from town to town, it’s not hard to imagine the devastating implications for the environment around us. In fact, to put it into some kind of perspective, an estimated 17,860 toys go to landfill in the Stirling council area every year.”

The motivation to start up the enterprise grew from Helen having acquired an environmental degree and working at Stirling University’s Institute of Aquaculture.

When the opportunity arose to attend a seminar on starting your own business at the University through the SURE scheme, Helen was already thinking along recycling lines. When someone suggested children’s toys and clothes, the idea then quickly began to gain momentum.

Helen then sought out support and advice from Stirling Enterprise (STEP) Business Gateway where she was able to get help sourcing business accommodation at Stirling Enterprise Park. Being 28-years old also enabled Helen to access the £1,000 young person’s start-up grant.

Further funding has been accessed from SEPA and the Scottish Executive INCREASE programme.

While the funding that the Community Enterprise has received is modest, it will help pay Helen’s wages for the first six months and with the rental costs of premises. The long-term plan however, is for the enterprise to sustain itself:

Helen continues:

“Our aim is to make Good Green Fun self-sufficient after the first year. However, to achieve this, we are reliant on volunteers and the support of the public in helping make this community enterprise a success. We all have it in our power to contribute a little bit and I really do believe that, by working together, we can make a significant difference at local level.

“We are particularly keen to incorporate local primary schools into the programme. We see this as beneficial on two fronts. In the first place it is getting the recycling message through to children – on a level that they can understand. Additionally, the work that we are doing can be incorporated into initiatives such as the Eco Schools programme and young enterprise.”

Interested in donating to or visiting Good Green Fun?

Good Green Fun is based at Unit 31, Stirling Enterprise Park, John Player Building, Stirling FK7 7RP. Tel: 01786 849216 or E-mail: helen@goodgreenfun.co.uk Website: www.goodgreenfun.co.uk Opening times are Tues – Sat 9am – 4pm.
 

MEAT
THE FAMILY . . .

NEW DIRECTION FOR GARTARTAN FARM SHOP
 

After two years trading from Ward Toll Nurseries, Gartartan Farm Shop has moved to refurbished premises at the family farm opposite Gartmore House on the A81.

To celebrate the move, an open day was held recently, where customers old and new were invited to visit the new shop premises, take away some free meat samples and learn more from the Nicolson family about the origins of their home bred Aberdeen Angus, long-hanging beef and lamb and other local produce on sale.

Mother of three, Rona Nicolson, is one of the driving forces behind Gartartan Farm Shop and she is optimistic about the move:

“We’re delighted to have finally made the move back to the farm and into our own shop premises. This will allow us to concentrate our efforts on a core product range and enable us to sell our produce in an authentic, natural environment – shortening that all important journey from farm to plate.”

The move has also been a good motivating factor in helping the Nicolson’s think about the future development of the business. They now offer an evening delivery service to the surrounding villages and have also expanded the wholesale side of the business. The Gartartan Farm Shop website is also under review and customers will soon be able to ‘buy online’ meaning goods can be delivered ‘direct to the door, to any location’.

Running the farm shop alongside Rona is Carol Nicolson:

“We are a family business that uses traditional methods of rearing, hanging and butchering. This means we have a quality product that’s difficult to find elsewhere. We are members of the Quality Meat Scotland Assurance Scheme and also the Marks and Spencer Farm Assurance scheme and we firmly believe that in terms of service, we have a knowledge and confidence in our product that is second to none.”

Customers will also be able to purchase home baking, local free range chicken, wild venison, eggs, duck eggs, bacon, honey, local potatoes as well as seasonal vegetables.

Gartartan Farm Shop is situated opposite Gartmore House on the A81. Tel: 01877 382067 www.gartartanfarmshop.co.uk

The shop is open Mon, Thurs (late night), Fri, Sat & Sunday. Contact for opening times.
 

FINE DINING
ON THE MENU
IN DRYMEN

A new restaurant offering customers contemporary Scottish cuisine coupled with top class service has opened its doors to the public in Drymen.
 

Stephen is no stranger to the hospitality industry having worked at management level for Mitchells and Butler – one of the UK’s leading operators of managed pubs and pub restaurants – for the last 15 years.

The restaurant which has forty covers and a reception area has been designed and decorated to a high standard with a sleek and modern feel. It is in this reception area that diners will be able to browse through the menu and enjoy canapés before being shown to their table.

Five bedrooms on the first floor of the building are in the process of being refurbished and redecorated. These will be ready to accommodate guests by Spring 2007.

Stephen Brown:

“There is no doubt Brown’s of Drymen is an ambitious project – but it is one that I feel confident there is both demand and a gap in the market for. Our ethos is a strong and unwavering one. We will not compromise on the quality of food we source and serve, we will only use organic fruit and vegetables and everything produced on the premises, will be prepared from scratch.

“Our menu will boast some of the very best ingredients that Scotland has to offer. This will include Beef from Perthshire, fish and fruit supplied fresh daily from the Glasgow markets as well as venison and game from Braehead foods.”

On the service front, Stephen aims to offer customers a level of care and attention but without the fuss and formality that many associate with the ‘fine dining’ experience.

“We want customers to go away from Brown’s of Drymen feeling that not only have they enjoyed fabulous food, but that they have been looked after by efficient and experienced staff in a warm and relaxed atmosphere. We also want them to go away and tell their friends, family and colleagues about us too!”

Brown’s of Drymen is open for lunch and dinner every day, except a Tuesday.

Brown’s of Drymen , 5 Stirling Road, Drymen G63 0BW Tel: 01360 661466 or E-mail dine@brownsofdrymen.co.uk www.brownsofdrymen.co.uk
 

FOXGLOVE COTTAGES ...

THREE JEWELS IN LOCH LOMOND’S
SELF-CATERING CROWN
 

Not me for one. But, having visited Foxglove Cottages – a new development of 3 country lodges situated within a small family-owned estate on the outskirts of Drymen – I have been converted.

The journey to bring Foxglove Cottages to fruition has been a labour of love for owners, James and Jean Bowman.

The project to design, build and open the lodges has been six years in the making - but a healthy combination of patience, close attention to detail and a keen eye for design has - undoubtedly - paid dividends for the couple.

The end result is 3 aesthetically pleasing lodges, set within a peaceful countryside setting, with interiors that manage to mix the comforts of home, with an undeniable feel of understated luxury.

Each lodge comes with its own sauna, three en-suite bath or shower rooms and parking for up to 4 vehicles, making the accommodation perfect for extended families, grandparents sharing a holiday or friends holidaying together. Within each lodge there is ample space to sleep up to 6 + 2 people, plus cots are available if required.

5-star rated, Foxglove Cottages are situated within a small, family-owned estate on the outskirts of Drymen. 

Foxglove Cottages manage to mix the comforts of home, with an undeniable feel of understated luxury.

And this sense of space and freedom isn’t restricted to younger family members.

The West Highland Way & Cycle Track unobtrusively border parkland adjacent to all three lodges with walkers and cyclists forming a common sight in the summer months.

A ten-minute walk along pretty lanes and overlooking rolling countryside, will take you to the small village of Drymen with its picturesque pubs and restaurants. Balmaha, on the Loch’s eastern shores, can be found 10 minutes further down the road.

Whether it’s soaking up the breathtaking scenery of Loch Lomond and the surrounding countryside, getting closer to nature and exploring the nearby David Marshall Lodge Visitor Centre at Aberfoyle, or learning all about Stirling’s historic past by visiting Stirling Castle or the Wallace Monument, or sampling a dram or two at nearby Glengoyne Distillery – there’s something to suit all age groups and interests.

The over-riding message is this. When visiting Foxglove cottages, you will be spoilt. Not only in your choice of holiday accommodation - but by the endless possibilities of what there is to see and do while staying in the area.

A Focus On Growth client, the Bowman’s have benefited from advice and assistance to develop and grow their business. This has included IT assistance to help with web development and marketing.

www.foxglovecottages.co.uk

‘BLOOMING MARVELLOUS’

Balfron Business Has Potential To Grow Places

Balfron businessman, Keith Harvey, was delighted to receive an official visit from Stirling Provost and Stirling Enterprise (STEP) Board Director, Colin O’Brien last week.

Keith’s business, Careth Landscaping, started up 8 years ago with just himself and his wife Carol at the helm. Today, it’s a different story, with Keith employing a team of 8 workers, while his wife looks after ‘the office’ on a part-time basis.

Stirling Provost, Colin O'Brien, is pictured along with Keith Harvey (centre left) and the rest of the Careth Landscaping team.

Careth Landscaping has also won a variety of bigger commercial landscaping contracts and counts Housing Associations, the Ambulance Services in Forth Valley, Fife and Tayside, Jarvis Accommodation Services as well as Spiers Parnie - one of Scotland’s biggest letting agents - amongst their client base.

The business is a member of the British Association of Landscape Industries (BALI) and is SEPA registered.

Not content with his achievements to date, Keith is keen to further broaden his horticultural horizons. Having researched his marketplace and identified notable demand, Keith plans to grow and supply orchids with Plean-based plant wholesaler, Scott’s Nurseries.

He and Nursery owner, Graham Scott, have both been invited to Kew Royal Botanic Gardens by renowned Orchid authority, Kath King to learn more about the specialist practices involved in growing some of the more rare varieties.

Keith Harvey: “We’re delighted with the progress that the business has made to date. However, not content with stopping here, we are very much looking to the future and how we can consolidate our business interests and facilitate future growth.

“At present we have a yard at Dalfoil Farm and greenhouses spread throughout Balfron – in fact much of our flowering stock has been grown from two 8 x 6 garden greenhouses. It has been a case of ‘making do’ with the facilities available to us. However, the business has come to a crossroads and we have realised that it is time to push forward and on to the next level.

“Part of our planning is to secure a site where we can erect three poly tunnels, and a greenhouse, grow more stock and create adequate storage for our four company vehicles and our equipment. To grow orchids a certain amount of infrastructure has to be put in place. The process is labour intensive and security is also an issue.

“We have a site earmarked on the outskirts of Balfron that would allow us to make our vision become a reality and hopefully enable us to create a few more jobs locally along the way.”

Stirling Enterprise (STEP) Business Gateway has pledged its support to Careth Landscaping from the outset, helping the business get off the ground in the early days, to - more recently - providing practical business support and advice to aid the growth process.

Keith Harvey:

“Stirling Enterprise (STEP) Business Gateway has always been at the end of the phone from day one. Whether it’s been training to help get to grips with book-keeping, or a quick query needed answered, we have been impressed with the level of support on offer.”

Funding Boost For Callander Sandwich Business

When it comes to 'making a crust' in the food production industry, one Stirling business is showing that quality and quantity really can go hand and hand.

The Sandwich Factory based at Lagrannoch Industrial Estate, Callander was bought over by local businessman, Paddy Ryan, in September 2005.

Already a business with a strong customer base made up of vending contracts, garage forecourt orders, coffee shops, not to mention a valuable contract with one of Scotland’s most prestigious hotels, Paddy has not rested on his laurels since taking over the reins.

Employing 16 staff from the Callander area and with 4 vans out on the road delivering into Stirling, Perth, Glasgow and Fife, Paddy has secured funding to help finance key projects that will help take the business forward.  

With the assistance of Stirling Enterprise (STEP) Business Gateway, Paddy has been able to access £9,000 worth of funding from Stirling Council’s Business Development Scheme.  This has allowed the business to invest in a much-needed new chilled storage unit as well as purchase a state-of-the art sandwich labelling system. 

With the business already churning out 5,000 sandwiches a week to satisfy current customer demands, Paddy believes these investments will help boost production levels over the coming year and could, conceivably, create new jobs for the area.

Paddy Ryan, Managing Director:

“With recent investment and new developments now in place, we are really looking forward to expanding our range of products and customers in 2006.”

The Sandwich Factory, Callander.  Tel: 01877 330598 or e-mail: mail@topsandwich.co.uk

Woodlane of Doune Poised For Catwalk Success

While big national stores, the length and breadth of the country, struggle to woo customers on the High Street, one Doune-based business is experiencing the flip side of the coin.

With assistance from Stirling Enterprise (STEP) Business Gateway, mother of three, Cheryl Sivewright started up Woodlane in Doune five years ago after identifying a gap in the market for high quality and affordable arts and crafts.  This then led to an individual collection of designer clothing, jewellery and accessories sourced from throughout Europe. 

An extended range of products necessitated the need for larger premises, with the end result that Woodlane has the feel of an exclusive mini department store.

Cheryl explains:  "I invest a great deal of time and energy in seeking out quality products that are unique and won't be found in the 'High Street' - I limit the number of items, as my customers value exclusivity.  The business has been built around knowing what my customers are looking for  and my personal shopping service has become very popular."

Spurred on by the success of Woodlane, Cheryl has opened a second business in Doune, an exclusive toy shop called 'Wood 'n' Tots'. 

And as if all that wasn't enough to contend with, Woodlane have announced their "Spring Into Summer" charity fashion show in aid of Childline Scotland.  After successfully raising £4,000 for the charity with an impressive winter fashion show in 2005, the Woodlane team have decided to hold another.   

This will take place on Thursday, 30th March at 7pm at the Macrobert Theatre, Stirling University.  Tickets cost £15 and include a pre-show reception of wine and canapes, with 10% off any purchases made on the night.  Tickets are available from the Macrobert on (01786) 466666 or from Woodlane (01786) 841000.

STEP Start-Up, Dawn Sewell, Puts Us In The Picture  

After studying Professional Photography for four years at Glasgow College of Building & Print , twenty-six year old Dawn Sewell offically launched her own business, Dawn V. Sewell Photography, in Stirling on Wed, 1st February, 2006.

Dawn's HND enabled her to study every area of photography from fashion to sports, industrial, architecture and product photography.  Dawn enjoyed the course so much that she opted to stay on and complete the 4th year Advanced Diploma in illustrative photography, specialising in fashion and portraiture.

Dawn Sewell:

"The main areas of work for me will be portraiture and individuals, test shots and portfolios  for models, head shots for actors and theatre production stills but I am open to all kinds of work and have recently been asked to photograph original jewellery items by a designer starting up in business and I am looking forward to new challenges.

"One of my main goals is to incorporate options of fresh, modern, fun portraits for the younger generation with more refined classic, beautifully lit portraits to accommodate everyone's taste.  I am open to clients bringing in their own ideas eg magazine clippings so that we can work out together exactly the type of photography they are looking for."

Dawn opted to enrol on a STEP Business Gateway Business Start-Up course in the evenings to equip herself with the skills to launch her new business venture.  Being 26, Dawn was also fortunate enough to qualify for a STEP Business Gateway Start-Up grant of £1,000 to help her on her way.

For further information, contact Dawn on Mobile: 07752 080850.

Touch Estate Pioneer A Fresh Approach To Business

If you are looking for somewhere a ‘little bit different’ as a venue for that special meeting or conference - or even for a wedding - then a 3,750-acre country estate, complete with 15th century manor house, might not immediately spring to mind.

However, all that could be set to change if Touch Estate by Cambusbarron, Stirling, has anything to do with it. 

Responding to the changing demands of country life, Touch Estate is moving with the times. 

The ‘A’ listed Touch Stables, which date back to 1750, have recently been converted to 8,000 sq ft state of the art office space.  Set within mature parkland landscape, the offices are within 10 minutes of Stirling’s commercial district, motorway junctions and mainline railway station.

Unit 2 at Touch Business Centre will soon be available for lease.  The office is approx 1,000 sq. ft.on ground floor level, has extensive car parking and comes with full maintenance support.

More recently, Touch House has opened its doors to the public as a conference and meeting venue for organisations.  The House & Estate also lend themselves to being the ideal location for a wedding, with the House, Grounds and Walled Garden all combining to make the perfect backdrop for any couples' big day.  A marquee on the lawn can also be organised to accommodate guests.

Margaret Plews, Event Manager, Touch House & Stables:

“We offer meeting/conference facilities within the House for up to 60 delegates and have extensive grounds, ideal for product launches and promotions. 

“We particularly pride ourselves in using local suppliers and produce.

“We have had lots of interest from Event Management companies who bring in clients from all over the world to take part in traditional Highland games and outdoor activities.  We are also popular with filming companies, for example the BBC, Arthur Conan Doyle, Sea of Souls The Suspect and Taggart have all used Touch House and grounds in their productions.”

For further information contact Margaret Plews, Event Manager, Touch House & Stables on: Tel: 01786 448899

E-mail: margaret@touchestate.co.uk   Website: www.touchestate.co.uk

Nov 2005

The village of Blanefield, Stirlingshire is benefiting from a new business addition to its pretty shop-lined main street.

Husband and wife team Murray and Gillian Barclay, have bought over the former Post Office building and, since being given the green light in July 2005, the couple haven’t wasted any time getting to grips with their new home and work environment.

After living and working in Hong Kong, then the Isle of Man, the couple, who are returning to Blanefield, were looking for a change of lifestyle and a sound business opportunity to invest in.

“Travelling around Asia for six and a half years and soaking up the different oriental crafts, jewellery and furnishings provided all the inspiration we needed to move forward and follow our dream.” said Gillian, a Glasgow School of Art Graduate who herself crafts jewellery and ceramics. “It has also enabled us to forge links with overseas suppliers meaning that we can offer customers a truly unique shopping experience. We have, of course, also been busy attending exhibitions and trade shows and sourcing stock within the UK.”

The premises at 83/85 Glasgow Rd, which encompass a shop, spacious upstairs and downstairs living accommodation and a workshop, is ideally suited to what the couple had in mind.

Murray Barclay: “The property came on the market at just the right time for us. We were on the look out for somewhere with the potential to house our proposed business idea and had already talked about the old Post Office building in Blanefield. When it came on the market, we just knew it was meant to be.”

The Barclays have made a conscious effort to retain many of the shops original features including the wall-mounted mail sorting shelves and the original fireplace. The shop’s main door has also been painted a bold shade of red in keeping with the postal theme.

This contrast of old and new within The Post House Gallery is sure to be a talking point among customers and will undoubtedly charm locals, commuters and tourists alike.

Gillian and Murray got their new business venture off the ground with the help and assistance of Stirling Enterprise (STEP) Business Gateway. In June 2005 Gillian enrolled on a STEP Business Gateway Intro. To Business seminar to equip herself with the right skills to get the new business venture off to a flying start. IT assistance was also readily available from STEP to help get their website www.theposthousegallery.com up and running.

The Post House Gallery, Blanefield carries a wide selection of gifts and crafts including:

• Emma Bridgewater ceramics

• Handwoven Harris Tweed bags and luggage from Glenalmond Tweed Company

• Wemyss Ware from Griselda Hill pottery in Fife

• Wonderful designs in pure wool from Orkney based designer 'Tait and Style'

• Steiff soft toys and limited edition bears

• Hand crafted wrought iron work from Ayrshire

Visit the website at www.theposthousegallery.com

STIRLING FIRM FLYING HIGH

Stirling human resources and health and safety specialists, Black and White HR Solutions (International) Ltd, had cause for double celebrations recently.

Having just completed their first year in business, not only have they been awarded Investors In People (IIP) status, but the business has also achieved accreditation from the Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM).
 

Anne & Andrew Leaver pictured with Peter Russian (centre) Chief Executive of IIP Scotland

Anne Leaver, Managing Director:

“Looking back over the last year, we’re delighted with the progress the business has made. Feedback from our existing client base has been tremendously positive, which is shown in the number of client referrals we have had.  Consequently, we are looking forward to a tough but fulfilling second year.”

www.blackandwhitehr.co.uk

July 2005

STIRLING DESIGN BUSINESS HELPS DEWAR'S WHISKY
FIND THEIR COMFORT ZONE
 

The web site of Stirling interior design business, Comfort Zone Interiors, caught the eye of the Dewar’s project manager tasked with leading the work and owner, Morag Meighan, was asked to tender for the work.

Morag last month put the finishing touches to the 3-month design project and the end results are impressive.

What was formerly a large storage area within the Dewar’s bottling plant, has now been transformed into one large space dedicated to employees with 4 inter-related relaxation zones.

And Dewar’s are so impressed with Morag’s creative ideas, quality of work and commitment, that not only have they named the area Dewar’s Comfort Zone by way of a thank-you – but they’ve commissioned the business to work the same creative magic on the HQ’s corporate entrance.

“Before setting up my studio in Bridge of Allan, I was running my design business from home, securing commissions for a range of clients. It was a chance encounter with an encouraging speaker at a Scottish Enterprise Forth Valley, Women Into Business network meeting, that prompted me to forge on and create an on-line ‘shop window’ for my business.

“I then approached Stirling Enterprise (STEP) Business Gateway in 2003 to find out how to go about creating a website. The advice I received was practical, free of charge and extremely helpful. I now have a fully functioning, straightforward, but stylish, website capable of showing potential clients examples of my previous work.”

The Dewar’s project has also afforded Morag the opportunity to incorporate the artistic talents of her son, Chris Meighan, as well as the work of Buchlyvie artist, William Pretorius. Both were commissioned to produce one-off pieces to carry through the Dewar’s corporate image and complete the Dewar’s Comfort Zone.

www.comfort-zone-interiors.com

BALQUHIDDER BUSINESS MAKING A HEALTHY RETURN

When Graeme Courtney made the bold decision to ‘up sticks’ from Glasgow in 1990 along with his parents and take over the running of the Kings House Hotel in Balquhidder, rural Stirlingshire, he openly admits that friends and family raised an eyebrow or two at the prospect.

Steeped in history and not short of breathtaking scenery the area might be. But the harsh realities of living and working in a remote rural community can often be an eye-opener for even the hardiest of characters.
 

The Kings House Hotel & adjoining Rob Roy Lounge Bar

The Kings House Hotel no longer sits in splendid isolation.

Expansion has been a continual theme over the years, seeing the business evolve from a single business entity into 4 businesses with a number of entrepreneurial off-shoots.

The seven-bedroom Hotel and adjoining Rob Roy Lounge Bar has proved a good, solid starting point and investment for the family business. Enjoying a prime location in the heart of Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park and being right on the beaten track to the Highlands, the hotel has always proved a draw to passing tourists.

Expansion plans got underway in 1992 when an existing stone building adjacent to the hotel was converted into commercial premises. The ‘Wee Mindin’, as it is now known, is rented out to a local couple who run it as a gift shop.

In 1997, six self-catering cottages, made possible thanks to funding from the Scottish Enterprise Forth Valley Tourism High Growth Programme, were created. Four star-rated, the cottages enjoy high occupancy levels throughout the year.

The latest venture to emerge has been King House Travel Ltd. This business was formed in 2004 and has quickly gained momentum. What started off as a small exercise transporting the local kids to school on board a 12 seat Landrover, has escalated to a 6 vehicle, 5-driver affair. School and public transport contracts form the mainstay of this business, but Graeme is currently exploring touring opportunities and has his eye on three new vehicles. Graeme is also credited with launching Stirling’s first demand responsive taxi service in conjunction with Stirling Council.

Graeme brought on board local couple, Neil & Fiona MacArthur to manage the Kings House Hotel in 2002. The partnership arrangement that they have developed has been mutually beneficial, keeping the hotel ‘on track’ and, at the same time, giving the couple the flexibility and freedom to pursue additional ventures.

This flexibility has paid dividends. Neil has enjoyed success of late having written, illustrated and published his own book ‘The Hounds Tale’. This has been well received, having sold 1,600 copies to date and there are plans afoot to follow up with 2 more titles and talk of a film. Based on that success, Neil has formed his own publishing company, Kings House Publishing.

Neil and Fiona’s 18-years old daughter, Mairi, has even caught the entrepreneurial bug. Based on her parent’s previous experience of running a successful chutney business, she has made the decision to re-launch the enterprise. This too will take on the Kings House brand identity.

These ‘off-shoot’ businesses complement nicely what’s on offer at Kings Houses. The Hounds Tale takes its inspiration from local legend and has an obvious appeal to both fans of the areas history and children alike. The chutney serves a similar purpose, giving visitors a tasty memento of their stay.

Taken collectively, the various businesses to emerge out of King Houses have provided a vital boost to the local rural economy, providing much needed jobs and, at the same time, solving rural transport issues in the process.

By teaming up with Scottish Enterprise Forth Valley and Stirling Enterprise (STEP) Business Gateway, Graeme has been fortunate enough to access a range of both financial and advisory support to aid the growth process over the years.

More recently, STEP Business Gateway has been instrumental in helping Graeme Courtney access support from Stirling Council’s Business Development Training scheme. Under the scheme, the council has agreed to part-fund the training of drivers, of prime importance to the future direction of the business.

Graeme Courtney: “We are extremely proud of the progress that the businesses have made over the years. To be able to ‘give back’ to the local community by creating jobs and offering solutions to important rural issues - such as transport - is gratifying. I think for a business to truly succeed, particularly within a rural environment, this type of interaction is vital.”

If the steady growth rate experienced over the last 15 years is anything to go by, then who knows what the next 15 years will bring to Balquhidder.

www.kingshouse-scotland.co.uk
 

KATY’S NEW FABRIC RANGE IS
 ‘FARM-TASTIC’

The recent Royal Highland Show at Ingliston proved the perfect venue for Stirlingshire soft furnishing specialist, Katy Rodger, to launch her brand new children’s fabric range.

Inspired by farm and family life, the fabric was designed by Katy’s daughters, Helena and Catherine - who are both ‘hands on’ within the family business - with the help of an artist friend.

Their business, Katy Rodger Making Interiors, which is based at Knockraich Farm, Fintry, has been fast gaining reputation for excellence since launching in 2002 for producing top quality, hand-sewn, soft furnishings.

The show also coincided with the launch of their website: www.makinginteriors.com