A Stornoway whisky shop is set to expand into additional commercial premises after accessing support from Business Gateway.
The Island Spirit Whisky Shop was incorporated in 2017 and, following a lot of background work and research carried out by husband-and-wife team Iain and Mary Faller, the shop was opened in the centre of Stornoway in 2020.
The shop offers a wide selection of high-quality Scotch malt whiskies, artisan gins and fine wines, as well as locally produced craft beers.
Storage and the administration functions of the shop were previously carried out at Iain and Mary’s home, but this became less sustainable as the business grew, having been met with a popular reception from locals and tourists alike.
Iain and Mary have been working with Business Gateway to secure the additional commercial premises, which will be used for the preparation of online orders and storage. The premises will also have its own office to support business operations.
Through Business Gateway, the couple received grant support through the Outer Hebrides Young Enterprise Support Scheme, which is funded by Highlands and Islands Enterprise and delivered by the Comhairle’s Business Gateway team. This funding supported the works carried out to the new property to make it fit for purpose.
Iain and Mary also accessed grant funding from the Outer Hebrides Digital Support Scheme, which is funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. This support assisted with digital costs, which will be of benefit to the online orders side of the business.
With the new warehouse soon to be in place, Iain and Mary are now keen to grow their team and take on an additional member of staff over the next year.
Iain Faller, co-owner, The Island Spirit Whisky Shop, said:
“This move gives us the space we need to meet increasing demand and offer even more to our customers. The support we’ve received from Business Gateway has been invaluable, with the guidance on funding opportunities particularly helpful to make the new premises fit for purpose. We’re very grateful for their backing as we continue to grow.”
Derek Maclean, Business Gateway adviser, said:
“We worked closely with Iain and Mary to explore the most suitable next steps, ensuring they had access to the right guidance and opportunities. Seeing their expansion come to life is a great example of how tailored business support can help unlock potential.”
To find out more about how Business Gateway can help your business, visit the Business Gateway website.