The expansion of a local Shetland bakery is set to increase turnover and improve efficiency so it can meet the increasing demand for its products, both in Shetland and on the mainland.

Walls bakery opens its extended and upgraded property tomorrow (Thursday 15th July).  The development includes a cafe which will provide a facility for residents and visitors to the area. 

Shetland Enterprise have awarded the business £15,016 to help meet the costs of the project.  The café on the first floor of the new building will be able to seat 20 people, while downstairs will be used as a store and dispatch area.

Walls bakery currently employs ten staff and as a result of this development it is hoped that a number of new jobs will be created.

Walls bakery was established 17 years ago and supplies baking both locally and in the north of Scotland.  They have recently secured a contract to supply another 60 supermarkets on mainland Scotland.  The extension will allow the bakery to cope with this increase in demand more effectively.

A recent report also provided evidence that a tearoom in the west of Shetland would provide a valuable tourist attraction for the area, aswell as providing a facility for the local people to use.  It is hoped the tearoom will encourage more bus tours to the area, increasing tourist spend in this part of Shetland.

Charlie and Angela Hodge who own Walls bakery said: "We are very happy that café and extended storage area have been built with the help of Shetland Enterprise.  It will allow our business to grow and develop into new markets while also providing a new tourist facility in this fairly remote part of Shetland."

Mark Georgeson, a development manager with Shetland Enterprise said: "Charlie and Angela have built up a good relationship with customers over the years, leading to a steady increase in turnover and the need for this expansion.

"The food and drink industry is a key economic driver for Shetland so the local enterprise company are pleased to be involved in the continued growth of this well established business.