Tag: business support

Edinburgh cultural guide builds slow-travel project with Business Gateway support

An Edinburgh-based tour operator is turning a personal storytelling project into a sustainable tourism activity thanks to tailored guidance from Business Gateway.

Un Italiano ad Edimburgo (An Italian in Edinburgh), founded by Andrea Moretti, offers private walking tours of Edinburgh, bespoke car tours across Scotland and personalised itineraries, all delivered entirely in Italian. Andrea combines the knowledge of a local guide with the flexibility of a personal tour leader, ensuring visitors experience Scotland authentically and at their own pace.

Having moved to Scotland from Italy six years ago, Andrea’s passion for Scotland led him to author The Slowness of the Thistle: A Journey into the Soul of Scotland, a book encouraging travellers to explore the country with curiosity and attention to detail. Sharing his travels across Scotland on his Facebook page, Andrea gradually built a community of followers. Step by step, he realised visitors were not only looking for a guide, but for help interpreting the country, which led him to formalise the project as a business.

The business champions slow, responsible tourism through small, private tours that offer visitors an authentic and meaningful connection to Scotland’s people, landscapes and culture.

Since starting last year, Andrea has expanded his offering to include multi-day experiences and collaborations with local producers, giving Italian travellers a truly immersive Scottish journey. Tours are designed to be accessible for everyone, including families with children, travellers with pets, or those with mobility or sensory needs. Every experience is tailor-made, combining history, curiosity and local stories.

Business Gateway has helped Andrea structure and formalise the project as a recognised tourism activity. Adviser Lee Briggs provided one-to-one guidance through the early stages, from business planning and registration to defining clear offers for individual travellers, families and travel agencies.

Andrea also received expert support on marketing strategy, digital presence, SEO, social media planning and client communication, alongside workshops and webinars to strengthen his business knowledge.

Thanks to this support, Andrea launched an official website for Un Italiano ad Edimburgo, building a strong online presence to support its social platforms. The business also became officially listed on VisitScotland.com and Forever Edinburgh as a registered tour operator, marking a significant achievement for a small independent business.

Andrea Moretti said: “At the beginning, the project An Italian in Edinburgh was just a way to share my experiences with friends – a diary of photos, stories and tips born out of passion. Step by step, post by post, the community grew, and so did my role: from enthusiast to guide for many Italian travellers.

“As a new Scot, I’ve been amazed at the level of support available. Business Gateway helped me structure the idea, refine my offer and gain the confidence to make the project sustainable without losing its original purpose: helping visitors understand Scotland rather than simply see it.

“Lee’s guidance and support in accessing funding have made a real difference, giving me the foundation and tools to grow and show visitors a side of Scotland they might never see otherwise.”

Lee Briggs, Business Gateway adviser, said: “Andrea’s passion for Scotland is infectious. Our guidance helped him take a personal idea and turn it into a real, sustainable business, with a clear identity and strong online presence.

“Supporting him as he brought Un Italiano ad Edimburgo to life has been a pleasure, and I look forward to seeing how he continues to grow his tours and expand his experiences in the years ahead.”


To find out more about how Business Gateway can help your business, visit:

https://bgateway.com.

Edinburgh digital start-up powers ahead with Business Gateway support

An Edinburgh-based digital and web services start-up is building a successful future after its founder turned to Business Gateway for support at a critical moment, following two years of significant personal and professional hardship. 

Power On Web Design, founded by Martin Kay in October 2024, provides creative web design, technology and digital consultancy services to small and medium-sized businesses across Scotland. Since launching in October 2024, the business has grown steadily, gaining recognition within the local business community and securing larger clients alongside its core start-up audience. 

For Martin, the launch of Power On Web Design marked a turning point following a challenging period both personally and professionally. After experiencing family bereavements, job losses and redundancy, he was also diagnosed with ADHD at the same time he first approached Business Gateway. Starting a business was not part of the plan but became an opportunity to rebuild and refocus. 

Drawing on a background in sales at a leading global cybersecurity firm, alongside a lifelong interest in creativity and design, Martin channelled his experience into creating a business focused on helping other small enterprises grow online. 

A turning point came when Martin reached out to Business Gateway for support. Working with adviser Lee Briggs, he accessed one-to-one guidance covering business planning, marketing and routes to funding. Lee also supported Martin through the application process for a start-up grant, working through the paperwork together and helping to remove barriers created by ADHD-related challenges. 

The funding secured through Business Gateway support enabled Martin to invest in key growth opportunities, including a Chamber of Commerce membership and having a professional exhibition stand produced.

These investments helped raise the profile of Power On Web Design, leading to new connections, increased confidence and a growing pipeline of work driven largely by word-of-mouth referrals. 

As the business has developed, Martin has also benefited from wider Business Gateway support, including access to expert help, workshops and introductions to local business networks. The business has since relocated to a new office space, providing a more focused environment and supporting continued growth. 

Martin Kay, founder of Power On Web Design, said: “There was a point where everything felt uncertain, both personally and professionally. Power On Web Design came from a need to change direction and build something meaningful, even when I didn’t have a clear roadmap. 

“Business Gateway played a massive role in that journey. At a point when I was struggling to find direction, their support gave me confidence, structure and encouragement. The one-to-one guidance and help with funding made a real difference and helped me take that first proper step forward.” 

Lee Briggs, Business Gateway adviser, said: “Martin’s journey is a powerful example of resilience. He approached Business Gateway at a difficult time and was open about the challenges he was facing, which allowed us to tailor support around his needs. 

“Through one-to-one guidance, funding support and access to wider networks, Martin has built a business with strong foundations. Power On Web Design is already making an impact, and I look forward to supporting the next stage of its growth.” 

Business Gateway Edinburgh offers tailored support for neurodiverse founders, including dedicated advice, resources and specialist workshops designed to reflect different ways of thinking and working.

This includes practical sessions such as marketing support for neurodiverse minds, helping entrepreneurs build confidence, develop strategies that play to their strengths and access guidance in a supportive environment. 

To find out more about how Business Gateway can help your business, visit:

https://bgateway.com 

Meet the Council drop-in event for business support

Businesses in Edinburgh are being invited to meet with 30 Council services and business-facing partners face-to-face. Meet the Council will be held on Tuesday 3 February at the Assembly Rooms on George Street between 10am and 1pm.

Local businesses are encouraged to register in advance to secure a space to the drop-in, with opportunities throughout the day to meet with key Council teams and hear about opportunities for business growth.

Offering a single point of access for business support, the event will bring together Council officers from:

  • Business Gateway
  • Edinburgh Guarantee
  • Edinburgh Project Search
  • Parental Employability Support
  • The Edinburgh Employer Recruitment Incentive
  • Edinburgh Means Business
  • Commercial property
  • Trading standards
  • Forever Edinburgh
  • Cultural Partnerships, Events and Film
  • Visitor Levy
  • Procurement
  • Convention Bureau
  • Climate & Nature Strategy
  • Environmental Health
  • Street Enforcement
  • Licensing
  • Scientific Services
  • Building Services
  • Planning
  • Non-domestic rates

Throughout the day, external partners will also be on hand to present and share their expertise, including:

  • Capital City Partnership
  • DSL Business Finance
  • Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce
  • Edinburgh Social Enterprise Network
  • Federation of Small Business
  • Scottish Enterprise Sustainability Team
  • Zero Waste Scotland
  • Forth Green Freeport
  • Adaptation Scotland
  • Supplier Development Programme

Councillor Tim Pogson, Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work Convener, said: “Edinburgh continues to boast the strongest local economy outside of London and has the highest number of accredited Living Wage employers in Scotland.

“The innovation, success and resilience of Edinburgh business community play a key role in shaping our city as a distinctive and exceptional place to live and work.

“We are keen to build much closer relationships with local businesses, offering meaningful support, gaining a deeper understanding of the views, challenges and ambitions of business owners and working together to secure a vibrant, sustainable, and resilient economic future for the capital.

“We recognise the current economic climate presents real challenges. By working collaboratively with businesses and partners, there is significant opportunity to support and grow Edinburgh’s economy, champion the principles of Fair Work, and help to create a stronger, greener and fairer city for everyone.

“To support this, we are hosting an event that brings businesses together with our teams in person, offering the chance to engage directly with staff from a range of services that support the business community.

“Whether you’re looking for advice on funding opportunities, navigating licensing requirements, or exploring how we can better support employers, this event is an ideal place to connect with the right people and access tailored advice and support.

“The Meet the Council event is designed to support Edinburgh’s business community and help foster a thriving, greener, and fairer economy – as outlined in the Council’s Business Plan 2023-27.“

City Council: Business Drop-in

You’ll be surprised at the range of ways the Council supports Edinburgh’s businesses to help them succeed.

Join us at the Assembly Rooms on 3 February 2026 to talk with our teams and some of our partner organisations that support businesses. It’s your chance to ask questions, share your thoughts, and learn more about how we work for, and with, businesses to make our city a better place.

Get answers to practical questions – from business rates and what licences you may need for new businesses and much, much more.

3 February 2026 10am to 1pm

Assembly Rooms, George Street Edinburgh EH2 2LR

Free but please register https://mtcedinburgh.eventbrite.com

Business Gateway launches its first-ever ‘Scottish Start-Up Month’

The national business support service is encouraging Midlothian locals to start their own business with the help of Business Gateway

Business Gateway, Scotland’s national business support service, has launched Scottish Start-Up Month, a nationwide campaign to celebrate Scotland’s entrepreneurial spirit.

Running throughout September, the campaign is designed to inspire and support anyone with a business idea to take their first step.

Business Gateway is encouraging aspiring Scottish entrepreneurs who are looking to start a business, or take their side-hustle further, to explore the wide range of free support available.

This support includes one-to-one guidance from experienced local business advisers, webinars, online resources, reviews of business plans as well as access to market research reports. Business Gateway’s services are available to businesses in Scotland at every stage in their journey.

One of Business Gateway’s key resources is its Planning To Start tool – an online questionnaire designed to help individuals assess their readiness to start a business. By answering a few quick questions, users can access a start-up toolkit filled with resources, advice, webinars and specific support for their business.

It also connects them directly with relevant Business Gateway services and local advisers, making it easier to access tailored support from day one.

Scottish start-up month is backed by Deputy First Minister, Kate Forbes and is supported by a group of hero ambassadors – Gemma Stuart, founder of Gut Wealth; Nicola Johnston, director of Island Larder; Gary Claase, co-founder of Gecko Glazing; Dr Poonam Gupta OBE, CEO of PG Paper and Coinneach MacLeod, Hebridean Baker.

Along with a number of other early pledgers, each of the hero ambassadors has pledged their backing for the campaign to inspire the next generation of Scottish business owners.

The campaign also features the support of small business owners from across Scotland who are lending their voices and experiences, including Louise McMahon of Edinburgh Dyslexic Services and Kasia McGavigan of Blue Bee Mike.

Business Gateway is now calling on other established businesses and organisations across Scotland to pledge their support by using their own platforms to encourage emerging start-up businesses.  

Hugh Lightbody, Chief Officer at Business Gateway, said: “Scotland has no shortage of ambition, creativity and drive, but taking that first step can often feel overwhelming. With Scottish Start-Up Month, we want to show that help is not only available but easy to access.

“Whether you’re starting a side project or planning your next big idea, we’re here to help turn that into something real. This collective backing will help spotlight the power of local enterprise and build a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem across the country.”

Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes said: “Entrepreneurs and start-up companies are the backbone of our economy and it has been very encouraging to see a number of different sources indicating a significant increase in Scottish start-up companies being created.

“This indicates a confidence in the business environment and conditions being created to encourage any business-minded person who wants to start or develop their business idea to do so.

“Business founders of course need the right support at the right time to help ensure they can develop, grow and prosper.

“I would encourage anyone who is considering starting or scaling-up a business to get in touch with Business Gateway and the other organisations supporting Scotland’s entrepreneurial talent up and down the country to start a conversation, find out more and get the right help to ensure your business can start, scale and thrive.”

Hero ambassador and founder of Gut Wealth, Gemma Stuart, said: “Starting a business can be incredibly exciting, but it can also be isolating and overwhelming.

“Having access to advice, community and resources through Business Gateway made all the difference to me and my business and I’d encourage any small business owner to reach out for support. I’m proud to be part of a campaign that helps others see that they don’t have to do it alone.”

To find out more about how Business Gateway can help your business, visit:

 https://www.bgateway.com

Businesses interested in pledging support for Scottish Start-Up Month can visit:

 https://www.bgateway.com/start-up-month 

for more information.

Business Gateway announces plans for second ‘Connections & Conversations’ event for start-ups

Business Gateway West Lothian has announced plans for its second ‘connections and conversations’ free ‘start up’ event on Thursday, 5th September at Whitburn Partnership Centre, from 5-7pm, to highlight the support available to help people in the local community get their business idea off the ground.

The ‘Simplifying the Business Start Up Process’ event, which follows on from the success of the first one in February this year, will include presentations from a team of Business Gateway West Lothian advisers, covering everything from planning and financial advice to marketing and HR support.

Various local businesses who have received valuable support in their start up journey will also be attending to share their personal stories in a panel discussion followed by a Q&A, including Paul Stark who founded Livingston-based Sustainable Sport in March.

The company provides expert consultancy support to help organisations within the sports industry achieve their long-term goals whilst minimising their environmental impact.

The support he received included guidance on the different types of legal structures for his businesses, allowing him to select the most appropriate option and also advice on how to source start up funding to assist with initial capital expenditure costs, allowing him to get off to a great start, efficiently and professionally. 

Paul said: “Business Gateway was instrumental in helping me set up my business. From supplying information and templates, to providing access to funding, they were with me every step of the way. 

“I’m delighted to say that due to the solid foundations that were put in place with the support of the Business Gateway team, Sustainable Sport is now going from strength to strength.”

Claire McGurk, founder of Canine Bodywork Clinic, which provides canine hydrotherapy and clinical massage services will also be talking about the support she has received for her Livingston-based business, which launched in January this year.

This includes help completing a business plan, with detailed financial projections, assistance with funding applications, advice when deciding on the structure of the company, and guidance and signposting on planning consents. 

The support enabled Claire to secure the appropriate funding to support the start up of the business, establish a clear and realistic set of financial projections, and create a strategy to help the business achieve its first three year’s objectives.

Claire said: “Without the expert help and advice from Business Gateway, the business plan for the clinic would not be as robust as it is. The financial projections for my first three years were a huge help for me to set my longer-term goals.  

Help and support through achieving funding for the business was also a huge boost on getting the business off the ground. The support has been incredible, and I am genuinely so grateful.” 

Former teacher, Susan Grieve and pupil support worker Ben Fazakerley, who founded Positive Outcomes LP this month, will also be sharing the story of their start up journey, which began in March this year.

The company, which specialises in offering afterschool care, holiday day care, respite, tutoring, and support for home-schooling to families with children with ASN, is based in Mid Calder Institute Hall Monday to Thursday and on Friday’s at The Polbeth Hub.

Susan said: “We have had an excellent experience with Business Gateway West Lothian. 

“Our advisor Jordan McDonald gave us the confidence and encouragement to push forward with our business. We were given expert advice and support throughout our whole journey. 

“Jordan helped us to start creating our business plan and was fundamental in getting us some funding which helped us greatly with start up costs. 

“We have received a first-class service and are still receiving support from Jordan, even after our business has successfully started up.”

There will also be opportunities for all attendees to network at the event.

Linzi Winton, Team Leader at Business Gateway West Lothian, said: “We are really looking forward to another ‘Simplifying the Business Start Up Process’ event on the 5th September, aimed at anyone who is thinking about starting a business or at the early stages and could benefit from a helping hand.

“It will be a great opportunity for attendees to hear from our guest speakers who will be sharing their start up journeys and the support they’ve received from our advisers, who will also be at the event to highlight the fantastic free resources available at Business Gateway West Lothian to help get your new venture off to a great start.”

The Grassroots of Business at the Royal Highland Show

On the 44th year as partner to Scotland’s largest agricultural event, Royal Bank of Scotland showcases some of the businesses who can see a new future in farming:

On Thursday, The Royal Highland Show returned to Edinburgh. The event follows the sixth wettest spring in history in the UK, creating untold pressure for the sector, which employs almost 70,000 people here in Scotland.

Accounting for a greater percentage of GDP in Scotland than the rest of the UK, agriculture plays a key role in Scottish cultural and business life.

This year marks Royal Bank of Scotland’s 44th year as partner to the event – the longest partnership in the bank’s history. But the bank is taking the opportunity this year to showcase businesses looking to the future of agriculture through a different lens and seeing where new opportunities lie.

To demonstrate its support for farming entrepreneurs, Royal Bank has allocated its activation space to platform two exciting businesses on the Royal Bank of Scotland Accelerator Hub programme who will exhibit across the weekend.

One such business is Glasgow’s Naked Kimchi, founded in 2021 by Katerina Hayes who is originally from the Ukraine and is now British.

Katerina introduced traditional Ukrainian fermenting practices to Scotland 16 years ago, producing a 100% vegan, free-from kimchi with her father’s authentic recipe. In response to ongoing world events, Naked Kimchi & Co has provided employment opportunities for displaced Ukrainian people.

Naked Kimchi & Co’s approach commits to pioneering mindful eating and emphasises the importance of gut health. The business supports local farmers, aiming to shorten the supply chain, and provide a delicious superfood that is loved by both individuals and the restaurant industry. Their efforts contribute to better food security while bringing fresh, delicious kimchi to chefs’ tables.

By harnessing the potential of overlooked “wonky” vegetables and utilising every part of the harvest, Naked Kimchi helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while creating a healthy superfood that benefits individuals and contributes to building better food security.

In recognition of the business’ success, Katerina and Naked Kimchi have recently picked up a Scottish Edge award, receiving £65,000 funding to continue to back their sustainability mission.

Naked Kimchi will be joined by West Lothian entrepreneur, Marie-Claire and her business, Dream Magic Superfood Powders.

After experiencing the health benefits of superfoods first-hand, having tried multiple options when tired and burnt out from raising a family and working as a fitness coach, Marie-Claire spotted an opportunity to help Scots live a healthier life and brought her own blend to market.

Using her qualifications in health and nutrition, Marie-Claire has led the business from strength to strength and Dream Magic Superfood Powders now offers six different blends for customers to choose from.

With the platform provided by Royal Bank of Scotland across the weekend, both businesses will be able showcase their produce and provide free samples while building industry connections and brand awareness.

The businesses are both on the Royal Bank Accelerator programme.

Entirely free, the Entrepreneur Accelerator initiative is aimed at high-growth businesses looking to scale. It provides access to coaching, mentoring, events and co-working hubs with the intention of helping fledgling businesses to unlock new markets, attract new talent, access growth funding and to build leadership skills and scalable infrastructure.

You can support Naked Kimchi here https://nakedkimchi.co/ and Dream Magic Superfood Powders here https://dreammagicsuperfoodpowder.co.uk/

Katerina, CEO Naked Kimchi commented: “We are deeply grateful for the support we’ve received from the Royal Bank Accelerator Programme. The guidance and resources on offer have been pivotal in helping us scale and grow the business.

“Being given the platform to attend the Royal Highland Show is testament to the backing we’ve been given as a business and we’re looking forward to sharing our passion for authentic Kimchi with the industry and to connect with fellow food and environmental enthusiasts”

Marie-Claire, CEO Dream Magic Superfood added: “The expertise and opportunity provided by the Accelerator programme has been transformative for my journey as an entrepreneur, enabling me to grow my business and further develop my skillset in sales and marketing to running and operating a successful business.

“The accelerator has helped me to navigate challenges along the way and to lay a strong foundation for sustainable growth.

“We are incredibly excited to exhibit our superfood powder range at the Royal Highland Show. This event is a fantastic platform us to build our brand profile with the industry and customers alike.”

Support for the agricultural industry offered by the bank includes:

Agriculture Relationship Managers: Royal Bank has specialist advisers working as agricultural relationship managers able to understand the unique needs of land-based businesses. One third of these are women.

Finance: In July 2022, NatWest Group, of which Royal Bank is a part, confirmed a £1.25billion lending package for farmers, taking its total lending capacity to the agriculture sector to over £6.7billion. The extended support came as farmers face multiple cost challenges as fertiliser, fuel, feed and energy costs continue to rise.

Women in Agriculture: Since 2017, Royal Bank of Scotland has been heavily involved in the Women in Agriculture group, providing mentors and specialist support to help equip women with the tools they need to counter the barriers they face in their careers.

Chartered Banker Institute: All Royal Bank agri-relationship managers are independently accredited by the Chartered Banker Institute (supported by NFU Scotland).

Edinburgh bakery business creates a buzz with insect bakes following support from Business Gateway

The Insect Café won in the ‘individual cake’ category at the National Scottish Baker of the Year Awards 2024/25

An Edinburgh bakery business that uses insect protein in its baking is looking to expand its operations after the owner accessed specialist support from Business Gateway.

The Insect Café was launched by Nahla Mahmoud in October 2023. Its products which use four varieties of insects in the baking process, range from nutty cricket brownies to spicy mealworm cakes. Keen to promote the nutritional and sustainable benefits of insects, Nahla’s bakes are high in protein and have a low carbon footprint, using UK suppliers for the insects themselves.

Using no butter, no preservatives and no artificial ingredients, the range of baked goods mean are high in nutritional value. Nahla aims to make nutritious food accessible and affordable.

Nahla sells her bakes at the Grassmarket Market in Edinburgh, which takes place on the first and third Saturday of every month.

She is now looking to increase the number of locations where she sells her baking, including potentially looking at premises for a café. She’s had a positive reaction to her bakes and is naturally met with curiosity, so she can let people know the benefits. She has a lot of returning customers, including those coming to her after a run or cycle.

Thanks to the popular reception for her bakes, Nahla has now been able to give up her full-time job in International Development to focus fully on The Insect Café. Her recipes are inspired by recipes from her childhood and her travels, as well as experimenting with new flavours and combinations.

The Insect Café won in the ‘individual cake’ category for their Larva cocktail ball at the National Scottish Baker of the Year Awards 2024/25 and was also nominated in the Customer Choice category.

Through Business Gateway, Nahla has received support from local adviser, Jeff Hume. Jeff has provided 1:1 support to Nahla, and signposted her to seminars and webinars on marketing, business planning, growth planning, market research and employment.

Through Business Gateway, Nahla was also signposted to a start-up grant from the City of Edinburgh Council which helped her set-up the business. She was also able to take on her first two members of staff, summer interns, thanks to the support.

Looking to the future, Nahla plans to make use of Business Gateway’s Research Service to identity new locations to exhibit at, as well as helping Nahla with looking for an ideal premises to set up a permanent café.

Nahla Mahmoud, owner of The Insect Café, said: “My Business Gateway adviser Jeff has been a fantastic support in setting up my business and helping me with growth. The whole service is a brilliant support.

“It’s an unusual business concept but is one I truly believe in, and I’ve had a lot of happy returning customers who see the health benefits and appreciate the delicious bakes.”

Jeff Hume, Business Gateway adviser, said: “Working with someone who is as passionate as Nahla is about her business has been fantastic.

“She has worked hard to build her business and the fact she is seeing such progress and can look to the future for her brand is really exciting and shows her enthusiasm.

“We’ve been glad to be able to support her on her journey and to provide her with specialist advice that’s been key to growing her business.”

To find out more about how Business Gateway can help your business, visit:

https://bgateway.com.

Business is blooming for UK’s only fully electric-powered gardening business thanks to support from Business Gateway

The UK’s only fully electric-powered gardening business has been able to make new hires and grow its business operations after accessing support from Business Gateway.

The Cycling Gardeners of Edinburgh, which offers a complete garden maintenance service delivered on cargo bikes by a team of independent gardeners, was founded in 2023 by Callum Ross, who wanted to combine his talent for gardening with his desire to be more sustainable.

Callum, who previously worked as an Operations Manager in the events industry, was keen to reinvent the way gardeners operate in Scotland’s capital city.

The business uses cargo bikes to travel and to transport materials and exclusively uses electric power tools. While the tools are more expensive than traditional petrol-powered tools, they are more sustainable, which chimes with the overall principle of the business.

As well as its team of freelance gardeners, who are largely experienced horticulturalists, The Cycling Gardeners of Edinburgh is also hoping to employ young gardeners who may be new to the trade but who may not have their driving licence.

The team has worked with local organisations Spokes, Sustrans, and the Cargobike Movement to increase their knowledge of cargo bikes.

Looking for some inspiration on growing his business, Callum attended a Business Gateway-run Meet the Investors session where he was able to rehearse pitching his business and find out about the work Business Gateway does. It was this that inspired him to contact Business Gateway, and through that he met his adviser Jeff Hume.

Business Gateway has supported The Cycling Gardeners of Edinburgh in a number of ways, including helping them to employ an Operations Manager using Edinburgh’s Employer Recruitment Incentives (EERI) Scheme, using the research service to identify possible collaborations and improving their use of social media.

Callum Ross, Founder of The Cycling Gardeners of Edinburgh said: “I’ve found that having a personal contact in Jeff has been so helpful, and I’m safe in the knowledge that he can give us solid advice.

“Business Gateway has also supported us in applying for grant funding which has been so helpful to help keep our operations afloat.

“As a new business, it’s invaluable to have the support of Business Gateway and to know that they’re on the other end of a phone if you need.”

Jeff Hume, Business Gateway adviser said: “It has been fantastic to support Callum and the team to create this unique idea and watch it come to life. They’ve been able to determine a great niche for their company and it’ll be wonderful to see it bloom into something even more special.”

To find out more about how Business Gateway can help your business, visit https://bgateway.com.

Scottish plumbing supplier on track for £7 million turnover with the support of Business Gateway

A Scottish heating, plumbing and bathroom supplier with branches located in Loanhead, Falkirk, Rosyth and Macmerry is now one of Scotland’s largest suppliers of plumbing, heating and bathroom products, after its owners received HR support and signposting to grant funding from Business Gateway. 

Launched in 2018, Heating, Plumbing & Parts (HPP) is a now a well-established heating and plumbing supplier and the go-to place for the everyday tradesman in Scotland. The business supplies and distributes everything relating to plumbing and heating, as well as specialising in bathrooms, underfloor heating and renewable energy products, selling to both trade and the public.  

Founders of the business, Craig Campbell, Commercial Director and Alan McConville, Operations Director had accumulated a wealth of knowledge in the industry through their work for large manufacturing merchants in senior roles for over three decades. Together, they identified a gap in the market to strengthen the relationship between merchant suppliers and the everyday tradesman, who they believed to be neglected in the industry.  

On a mission to drive change in the sector, Craig and Alan were in search of expert guidance to help turn their business plan into a reality and approached Business Gateway for support in 2018.

Business Gateway was instrumental in providing support in the early stages, with both Craig and Alan attending start-up advice workshops. These also included HR support, which helped the duo create staff contracts.  Additionally, Craig and Alan spent time with a strategy expert who helped them map out a five-year plan which they still follow today.  

Through Business Gateway, Alan and Craig also benefitted from digital support to help build and develop a user-friendly website, which now includes an online brochure, and provides direct access to the brand’s social channels.  

Motivated by the ongoing demand from their customers to have a showroom that could display the bathroom products on sale, Alan and Craig worked with Business Gateway to secure a 2023 Falkirk Council Resilience grant fund award for expansion. This £10,000 grant allowed HPP to build a new showroom at its Falkirk branch.  

Since 2018, HPP has gone from strength to strength, starting with their first branch in Loanhead and later expanding its premises to Falkirk, Rosyth and Macmerry, with more branches to follow.

Alan and Craig have also expanded their staff, and now have a team of 28 colleagues, who have over 300 years of experience and product knowledge between them. The business is now on track to turnover £7 million this year.   

Craig Campbell, Commercial Director, HPP, said: “After working in the heating and plumbing industry for several years, I’d acquired an abundance of industry knowledge. However, starting your own business in the sector can be daunting and knowing where to start can be the hardest part. 

“Our journey would have been much harder and longer without Business Gateway’s ongoing support.” 

Andrea Bradley-Priest, Business Gateway adviser, said: “We have been able to support HPP with a range of Business Gateway’s services.

“It has been fantastic to watch the business expand and develop in the way that both Alan and Craig wished for in their five-year plan. I look forward to watching them continue to grow in the future.” 

To find out how Business Gateway can help your business, visit:

https://bgateway.com.