September has certainly been a successful month for some local Scottish start-ups. From securing funding for getting started to being short-listed for Business Start-up of the year, three local start-ups are certainly on the rise. Join us as we discuss and celebrate the success of The Open Book in Wigtown, North Sea Shots in Aberdeen, and Whisky Frames in Midlothian.
North Sea Shots
Few people know that Scotland is recognized internationally for surfing. The North Sea may boast epic waves, but not many are willing to brave the chilly waters. Local surfer, Adam El-Naggar doesn’t mind the cold water and in fact hopes to profit from photographs of the North Sea coastline.
After swimming a mile out to sea to capture unique images, Adam has set up North Sea Shots. His business officially launched this September after securing financial backing from Business Gateway Aberdeen City & Shire. North Sea Shots will also offer surfers the chance to capture them catching the perfect wave.
As one of the few professional surf photographers in Scotland, Adam has certainly spotted a gap in the market. More information about Adam’s burgeoning business is available in SBNN’s in-depth article or on the North Sea Shots website.
The Open Book
The Open Book is a unique one-of-a-kind business. It allows tourists to rent the flat above the shop, while running the bookstore. Established by American Jessica Fox, the Open Book helps people to fulfil their dreams of working in a bookshop by the sea – even if temporarily.
While The Open Book is already an established business, this September it reached the milestone of being completely sold out. The Open Book is booked every single day until 2020!
Its success has attracted a lot of attention. In fact, a Chinese company even intends to launch this idea on the Asian market. Owner Jessica Fox will be speaking at the InnovativeLiterature event as part of VisitScotland’s INNOVATETHENATION talk series. SBNN offers up all the details about this event and more in their article on The Open Book. Or check out The Open Book directly on Airbnb.
In Other News
Another business that has achieved success this month is Whisky Frames. Whisky Frames converts Scotch single malt whisky into stunning picture frames and has been recognised as the Business Start Up of the Year in the Midlothian and East Lothian chamber awards. To read about the other nominees check out The Edinburgh Reporter’s article. Or check out Whisky Frame products on their website.
Feeling Inspired?
Good news – Edinburgh Napier has launched the UK’s first MSc in Business Event Management.
Edinburgh Napier has joined forces with the Edinburgh International Conference Center to provide students with both academic training and hands-on industry experience.
Invest Edinburgh spoke with Paul Barron, Professor of Hospitality and Tourism Management, to find out more about this degree. An abridged version of their interview can be viewed here. Or if this degree doesn’t quite meet your professional goals, check out Edinburgh Napier other business courses on their Business School webpage.