After developing a full business plan and improving manufacturing processes, Highland Fine Cheeses has a clearer understanding of business growth.
The challenge
SMAS involvement came from a suggestion from Highland Fine Cheeses' account manager at Highlands and Islands Enterprise. Practitioners quickly became involved to tackle the crucial task of supporting the development of a three-year manufacturing and business strategy.
This would plot a viable list of objectives, which would combine to achieve the overall goal of doubling business turnover.
The company
Highland Fine Cheeses produces traditional cheeses unique to the Highlands and Islands. Cheese is produced by a seven-strong workforce at the company's factory at Blairliath Farm in Tain. Varieties include Caboc, Black Crowdie, Cheddar, Brie and Strathdon Blue.
The family-owned business, established in 1963, attracts nationwide buyers thanks to distribution through third party wholesalers such as Braehead and Rowcliffe. And Highland Fine Cheeses has a number of enviable contracts to supply prestigious retailers including Harrods, Fortnum and Mason, Ian Mellis Cheesemongers and Sainsbury's.
How SMAS helped
SMAS undertook a four-day "intervention" to understand the company and the issues it faced. A period of mentoring and coaching for managing director Rory Stone followed - this led to the development of a full business plan which will help guide the company in the future.
SMAS were then able to introduce Highland Fine Cheeses to a range of support organisations and suitable companies who could help them realise their future growth plans. Link-ups have since been established with:
- PR and marketing companies
- Scottish Development International
- Food Processing Faraday
Further assistance has been received from Highlands and Islands Enterprise, with introductions to other business owners and sales teams.
Support then followed for Highland Fine Cheeses' technical advisor over a period, during which solutions to improve the manufacturing process were devised.
Outcomes
The completion of the business plan has been the most important development to arise from SMAS involvement, with a real focus in business growth now underway.
Rory noted: "I have a clearer understanding of how my business can grow."
Likewise, key stakeholders within the organisation have an enhanced awareness of the business goals and funding requirements Highland Fine Cheeses are targeting.
He added that the practical guidance has led to nationwide recognition: "The technical support was fantastic. This year, in five major national competitions, we have picked up ten medals including four golds, two "Best Scottish Cheese" and a "Best Home International" - awarded for being the best of Scottish, Irish, English and Welsh cheeses."
As well as increasing their headline figure of business turnover by 25% this year, Highland Fine Cheeses has recorded a gross value added figure of £55,000.
Rory concluded:
The business plan has given us a sensible direction to follow, giving us sustainable growth and profit. I would certainly recommend SMAS to other businesses.
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