Maree Todd has highlighted the importance of small businesses to the Highland economy following a visit by John Swinney to a popular Ullapool takeaway.

The First Minister visited Deli-Ca-Sea, a well known fish and chip shop, during a trip to the area.

The visit has been used to underline the role small and medium sized enterprises play across the Highlands, where they account for a significant share of employment.

Figures from Highlands and Islands Enterprise show that SMEs make up 68 percent of private sector employment in the region, notably higher than the national average.

Maree Todd said:

“I’m delighted the First Minister had the chance to experience Ullapool’s famous chippy, Deli-Ca-Sea, it’s a local favourite and a great example of a small business that sits right at the heart of the community.

“Small businesses anchor the Highland economy, but the past few years have been incredibly challenging, with many facing the impacts of Brexit, rising inflation, soaring energy costs, and wider cost of living pressures under the Labour Government.

“The SNP has a strong track record of backing small businesses.

“Under John Swinney’s leadership, Scotland continues to offer the most generous rates relief anywhere in the UK.

“In 2025, the Small Business Bonus Scheme saved firms £247 million, with eligible businesses able to receive up to 100 percent relief.”

The Scottish Government’s latest budget includes a non domestic rates relief package estimated at £870 million, alongside continued support for hospitality and music venues.

John Swinney said:

“Small businesses are the lifeblood of the Highlands and of course it was brilliant to sample the chips at Deli-Ca-Sea.

“Soaring energy costs and Labour’s national insurance hike have hammered local businesses and nowhere is that felt more than here in the Highlands.

“The SNP is on the side of Scottish business and if Maree Todd is re-elected as MSP for Caithness, Sutherland and Ross, people here will have a strong local voice fighting their corner.

“One thing that is very clear is a vote for the Lib Dems is a vote for Labour while a vote for the SNP is a vote for an SNP government on Scotland’s side.”

The discussion around small business support is expected to remain central as parties set out their economic priorities ahead of the Scottish Parliament election.

For communities like Ullapool, the strength of local businesses continues to shape both the economy and everyday life.