Nevis Bakery rises to the challenge of premium markets

Nevis Bakery is set to conquer new markets with an expansion project to increase production of their increasingly sought-after range of cakes and shortbread, thanks to advice and a grant of £14,960 from HIE Lochaber.

A planned expansion of its premises at Annat Industrial Estate will enable the business to bake and store larger batches of its high quality products.

As well as boosting productivity, the move will also enable Nevis Bakery to supply a greater number of customers, including some in overseas markets.

Under its own Nevis bakery brand, the family-run business specialises in at least ten different loaf cakes such as honey and apricot, and apple and cinnamon, and has even baked for the Harry Potter film crew.

Nevis Bakery has received a number of Great Taste Awards for its product range and recently won the 'Best Entry to a New Market' category at the Highlands and Islands Food and Drink Awards for their premium loaf cakes, biscuits and oatcakes.

Archie Paterson, managing director of Nevis Bakery said: "We are greatly encouraged by our recent success in winning awards that recognise the high quality of our products.

"We feel there is good potential to build up a niche market in our growing product range, and believe it is a good time to reposition our business with a new brand of premium biscuits and cakes for the quality gift shop market."

The bakery currently owns three shops, one in Fort William and two in Oban, with its traditional wholesale market selling to small grocery stores, catering outlets and a multiple retailer.

The business is also receiving IT advice through HIE Lochaber which will help it to  follow up some of these, and other UK based enquiries, through development of an online trading system.

Charlotte Wright, area director of HIE Lochaber said: "In recent years many craft bakers have disappeared due to competition from supermarkets. We are delighted to assist Nevis Bakery to diversify into a new niche market which will help them reach out to new customers and improve their long term sustainability."