A food producer is anticipating significant growth after reporting a 538% sales increase since April last year, following support from Scotland’s national business advice service, Business Gateway.
Based on the Isle of Whalsay in Shetland, Whalsay Made produces homemade preserves, chutneys and sauces. Initially a small operation providing products directly to those in the local area, owner Donna Polson turned to Business Gateway for support to scale up her offering in 2019.
The success and significant demand for her products has meant that the business is now able to expand, and Polson is working with Business Gateway to identify funding opportunities to allow for the construction of new business premises close to her house.
Before initially launching Whalsay Made, Polson attended a two-day course on running a business held by Business Gateway. Following this, Business Gateway introduced her to several potential stockists while her adviser reviewed her business plan, gave advice on company regulations, and provided marketing support.
During lockdown, Polson worked with Business Gateway as she adapted her business to the pandemic and introduced a delivery service, which has led to a significant increase in demand.
She also received support from DigitalBoost, Scotland’s national digital skills training programme, and is in the process of adding a virtual shop to her website.
Polson said: “I feel extremely fortunate to be in this position and cannot thank Business Gateway or my adviser enough for their encouragement and advice over the last 12 months, which has given me the confidence to take a chance on my product.”
Business Gateway’s Kirsten Nicolson added: “Our advisers are perfectly placed to support you with a range of questions related to starting a business, whether that is on your business plan or on topics such as funding or marketing. This support is complimented by our DigitalBoost programme that helps get businesses online and exploiting all the opportunities this brings.”
Get further information about starting a business or adapting to the pandemic from Business Gateway.
