A Lochaber woman is hoping for the sweet smell of success by turning her hobby into a business with the launch of The Highland Soap Company.

Emma Parton recently set up The Highland Soap Company to produce hand made soaps and bath products for the quality gift market.  She manufactures soap, bath bombs and bath salts, in a variety of fragrances giving 25 products.  She currently has plans to extend her product range to include lip balms, massage oils, body butter and creams.

Lochaber Enterprise has awarded HIE-Starts assistance of £2,384 to Emma to allow her to develop her hobby into a part time business and to buy the necessary equipment to enable the business to develop.  HIE-Starts is a European funded, Network-wide initiative deigned to help and support new businesses in their infancy, which is often the most difficult time so the business advice and support available is particularly important during this period.

Talking about her products Emma said: "They appeal to visitors to the Highlands looking for a distinctive souvenir or a gift and to anyone who enjoys quality hand made toiletries.  I also customise gift baskets for special occasions and provide wedding favours for people looking for something a bit different." 

She added: "Lochaber Enterprise has given me great assistance and I'm really enjoying the challenge of setting up my new business."

Trial sales from the Kingdom of Scotland retail outlet in Spean Bridge have proved very popular so far. 

Development manager Elaine Boyd from Lochaber Enterprise said: "This project will aid the establishment of a craft manufacturing business in the area aswell as creating employment.  We think The Highland Soap Company has the potential to grow into a successful business and will provide unique momentos for visitors to this area." 

For more information about the products or to make a purchase contact Kingdom of Scotland in Spean Bridge on 01397 712999 or call Emma on 07766 277765.