Richard Irvine, a 65-year-old man who established a fish smoking business in the Inner Hebrides, is eager to pass on his Colonsay Smokery to a family that intends to settle on the island for the long haul. Having operated the smokehouse for two-and-a-half years, Irvine is willing to transfer ownership at no cost, although he may maintain a stake in order to sustain the business if the new proprietors have a change of heart. His aim is to combat the island’s aging population and bolster enrollment at the local school.
At present, Irvine divides his time between Colonsay and his residence in Midlothian, having developed a fondness for the island in the 1980s. He and his wife first visited the island for their honeymoon, establishing a tradition of returning annually. Following an early retirement, Irvine initially planned to construct a house on the island but instead became involved in establishing a fish smoking enterprise. The Colonsay Smokery currently provides smoked salmon to local establishments as well as off-island locations.
Colonsay, situated west of Jura and Islay and south of Mull, sustains a population of roughly 120 individuals. The island boasts amenities such as an island store, a bookshop, and a gallery. In an effort to give back to the island he cherishes, Irvine articulated his intention to bestow the business upon a young couple willing to relocate. He conveyed, “I’ve taught myself a new skill and I seem to be doing quite well at it but the plan has always been to get the business up and running.”
The foundation of Colonsay Smokery comprises a five-day process involving filleting, curing, drying, smoking, and maturing the salmon before slicing, packaging, and distributing it for sale. Irvine intends to provide three months of mentorship to the prospective owners and may reserve a “golden share” to retain decision-making authority and prevent a premature sale of the business. His aspiration is to relinquish control entirely and devote more time to relishing the island lifestyle while contemplating his next endeavor
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