Success story for local entrepreneurs

Fortunately for locals, she and business partner Lisa Turnbull chose the latter and went on to launch the village’s popular tearoom and bar, 2nd Chance, with the support of Business Gateway Tayside.

The idea was born after Kathy saw a need for a community hub. “The village had lost its meeting places, with no pub or shop,” she explains. “There are three halls but not enough events for locals to gather and chat regularly.

"We had a new housing estate but no way to meet and get to know the new residents, so I saw an opportunity to build something that would act as a shop, tearoom and bar.”

The idea halted when Kathy realised it would be impossible to do it all on her own. Fortunately, Lisa’s return to the village led to the pair joining forces to launch the venture as business partners.

The Main Road venue, which opened in May, offers everything from breakfast rolls to afternoon teas and evening cocktails. Continuing a local feel, it also sells produce from nearby Seahills and Lunan Bay Farms.

Kathy has been delighted with the reaction from customers which, alongside encouragement from loved ones, has helped her to grow the business.

“I’ve had huge support from my family, friends and neighbours which helped get the initial idea off the ground. Business Gateway Tayside also guided me towards new opportunities – the team opened my eyes to funding and grants available, and showed me how to make comparisons with like-minded businesses.

They also put me in touch with a network of businesspeople within my area – a fantastic source of help.”

Kathy and Lisa received one-to-one support from Business Gateway Tayside adviser Donna Williamson, utilising help to form their business plan, attend workshops, and carry out market research.

Donna commented: “It’s been terrific to help support Kathy’s vision. Her success highlights the power of spotting a gap in the market and seeing the potential your business idea could have.

Especially when it comes to community-based businesses, many of which have seen an increase in demand due to more of us shopping locally as a result of lockdowns.”

If you’ve already started a business or thinking about setting one up, Business Gateway is there to help.There is local support available to help you with a wide range of business matters.

Their website is a great starting point to find out all you need to know.

Business Gateway Tayside offers free support and advice to new and growing businesses across Angus, Dundee and Perth & Kinross.

Contact your local team on 01382 843948,

or visit: www.bgateway.com/angus