A much-loved catering company on Scotland’s west coast is set to blossom, bringing new jobs and fresh flavours to Mallaig.
Bloom & Graze Ltd is embarking on an exciting £80,000 expansion project, made possible with up to £40,200 in funding from Highlands and Islands Enterprise.
The family-run business is transforming half of Mallaig’s historic railway station building into a vibrant new home.
Plans include a welcoming deli counter, a bakery kitchen, a larger catering kitchen and improved facilities for staff, along with office space and storage.
The new premises are due to open this summer.
Until now, Bloom & Graze has operated from its popular Horsebox Deli, a charming mobile kitchen that regularly sells out and has been weathering the elements for years.
This expansion will allow the business to take on larger contracts, including catering for the iconic Jacobite steam train, while creating a better working environment for the team.
The new deli will open seven days a week, serving a tempting selection of hot and cold food and drinks, with much of the menu made from locally sourced produce.
By investing in modern, energy-efficient equipment, the business will reduce its energy costs and carbon footprint, helping to support the region’s net zero goals.
Bloom & Graze is committed to sustainability, carefully managing stock to minimise food waste and prioritising local suppliers wherever possible.
Over the next three years, the company expects the expansion to boost turnover and create the equivalent of nine full-time jobs.
Elaine Jones, senior development manager with HIE’s Lochaber, Skye and Wester Ross team, is enthusiastic about the project.
“We are delighted to be supporting Bloom & Graze as they grow their business,” she said.
“This project will bring new employment opportunities, reduce carbon emissions and contribute to the local economy.
“It will also breathe new life into an important part of Mallaig’s town centre.
“We look forward to seeing the new premises take shape.”
Brogan Dempster, director of Bloom & Graze, described the expansion as a dream come true.
“This is a transformational opportunity for us,” she said.
“For almost four years, I have run the business from home and the Horsebox deli.
“Having a professional catering space was always a distant dream because of the lack of capital, but now the business is thriving, especially during the busy season when we feed hundreds of people each day.”
“With this support from HIE, we can now create a safe and professional working environment, grow our catering team and bring new life to one of Mallaig’s most historic buildings.
“Elaine and the team at HIE have been fantastic to work with and incredibly supportive.”
