A North Uist catering business has purchased larger premises after the owners received specialist scale-up support from Business Gateway.
Màiri Macintosh and Katriona Campbell own and run The Wee Cottage Kitchen, a takeaway catering trailer in Malaclete throughout the summer season at a busy roadside location. The business offers a range of café style food, including locally sourced seafood, home baking, all of which Mairi bakes, and barista coffee.
Mairi and Katriona had always talked about starting their own business but had never had the time to put their plans into action. Having both worked in hospitality before, it was a great option for them and The Wee Cottage Kitchen successfully launched in 2021.
Having received an overwhelmingly positive response from visitors and locals alike, The Wee Cottage Kitchen has continued to grow over the years, with Màiri and Katriona now employing four people to keep up with demand.
Thanks to increased trade, the business had outgrown its original van so Màiri and Katriona approached Business Gateway for support in growing their business. As well as receiving 1:1 support from an adviser on their business plan, they were also signposted to funding opportunities.
The business went on to be awarded grant support through the Comhairle’s Outer Hebrides Business Development Scheme. The funding went towards purchasing a new 20ft container, which is currently being converted into a kitchen facility.
Thanks to the bigger container, The Wee Cottage Kitchen is now expected to run year-round, with a reduced offering during the winter months, from the same location.
Màiri Macintosh, co-owner of The Wee Cottage Kitchen, said:
“We’re so excited to be taking this next step with The Wee Cottage Kitchen. What started as a small trailer in Malaclete has grown into something we’re incredibly proud of, and moving into a larger space means we can serve our customers all year round.
“The support from Business Gateway has been brilliant. We’re really grateful to Alastair and the team for their guidance and encouragement throughout this journey.”
Alastair Macleod, Business Gateway adviser, said:
“It’s been a pleasure to support Màiri and Katriona as they’ve grown The Wee Cottage Kitchen. Helping them access funding and develop a clear growth plan has allowed them to take a big step forward, and I’m excited to see what’s next for them.”
To find out more about how Business Gateway can help your business, visit the Business Gateway website.