Expansion is expected to created nine new jobs

A west coast catering company has embarked on an £80,000 business expansion project after securing up to £40,200 from Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE).

Mallaig based Bloom & Graze Ltd is developing half of the town’s railway station building to form its new premises.

It will include a ‘grab and go’ deli counter, bakery kitchen and larger catering kitchen, as well as an office, store, staffroom and toilet.

The HIE funding will contribute towards the costs of construction and new equipment and the new premises are expected to open in the summer.

Bloom & Graze has been operating from its Horsebox Deli, which has limited capacity and consistently sells out each day. It is also ageing due to weather.

The expansion will enable the company to take on larger catering contracts, including for the Jacobite steam train, and to improve the working environment for employees in line with Fair Work principles.

The Deli will be open seven days a week offering hot and cold food and drink, mostly of which is made from local produce.

By adopting the use of clean, modern, and energy efficient equipment the company will be able to reduce energy costs thereby improving its viability. It will also help cut its carbon emissions and contribute to the region’s net zero ambitions.

Bloom & Graze also uses locally sourced produce wherever possible and minimises food waste through careful stock control.

Over the next three years, the expansion is expected to lead to an increase in business turnover and an additional nine full time equivalent jobs.

Elaine Jones senior development manager with HIE’s Lochaber Skye and Wester Ross team said:

“We’re delighted to be working with Bloom & Graze on the expansion of the business. As well as creating employment, cutting carbon and contributing to the local economy, this project will see improvements to a key focal point in Mallaig.

“We look forward to working with the company management as they develop the new premises.”

Brogan Dempster, director at Bloom & Graze, said:

“This opportunity of growth is transformational for the business. For nearly four years I have run the business from home alongside the Horsebox deli, a catering premises was only ever a dream due to lack of capital but now business is thriving in season feeding hundreds of people a day with more opportunities available. 

“With the support of this HIE grant we are now able to fund a professional and safe work environment to finally grow a catering team as well as breathe life back into one of the most historic buildings in Mallaig. Elaine and the HIE team have been fantastic to work with and so supportive.”