PSYBT Logo

SOUNDTRACKS MUSIC STORE NOW OPEN FOR BUSINESS

A 23 year-old local entrepreneur who recently completed a course in Music Business in Glasgow, has decided to put what he’s learned to good use, and has started his own business on returning to the island.  As a result, “Soundtracks” Record Shop is now open at 17 Francis Street, Stornoway.

Simon Dunne in Soundtracks

The idea for the business came to owner, Simon Dunne from Stornoway, who decided to take the plunge with assistance from The Prince’s Scottish Youth Business Trust (PSYBT). Simon initially researched his idea to open a CD & Record Shop and approached PSYBT for advice and financial assistance to help him turn his ambition into reality.

With help from the PSYBT he put together a Business Plan, which proved to be an essential tool in terms of raising finance for his business.  Consequently, he was recently awarded a grant of £1,000 and a loan of £4,000 by PSYBT to help him start his business.  Simon will also receive two years of follow up business aftercare support from a PSYBT Business Adviser. He was also successful in attracting additional funding from Comhairle nan Eilean Siar’s Business Advantage programme, as well as from WIE.

Simon’s advice to any young person with a business idea is:

“Start by approaching PSYBT for advice, discuss your idea with your family and  research your idea to establish that there is a demand”.

“Soundtracks” sell a wide selection of CDs, including rock & pop, jazz & blues, dance, classical, Scottish-country and many by local artists.  Merchandise such as t-shirts & posters are also sold.  Simon also offers a CD ordering service, and his opening hours are 9am - 6.30pm, Monday to Saturday.

Regional Chairman for PSYBT in the Western Isles. Councillor Donald Maclean said "I am delighted that PSYBT have been able to assist another young person in the Western Isles to set up in business, I wish Simon every success with his new venture."

PSYBT in the Western Isles offers start-up funding and advice to young people aged between 18 and 30, with a business idea of their own.  For further information contact: Jane Campbell, PSYBT Regional Manager, Business Advantage, Town Hall, Stornoway, on 01851 707475.

Enterprise Youth is part-funded by Comhairle nan Eilean Siar and the European Regional Development Fund through the Highlands and Islands Special Transitional Programme - HISTP.

ENDS

Issued by:

Jane Campbell Tel: (01851)-707475
Youth Enterprise Development Officer Fax:  (01851)-703657
Department for Sustainable Communities
Email  jane.campbell@cne-siar.gov.uk

Business Advantage
Town Hall
Point Street
Stornoway
Isle of Lewis
HS1 2BE