Aberdeenshire gift makers receive major digital boost

About the business

A couple with a passion for crafting is on track to double their turnover after receiving support from DigitalBoost – Scotland’s national digital business skills training programme delivered by Business Gateway.

Rachel and Graham Nowak, of Alvah, Aberdeenshire, initially began designing and making crafts to sell at country shows and Highland Games across the country. By combining Rachel’s love of crafting and Graham’s expertise garnered from 30+ years in the sign-making industry, their high-quality gifts were an instant hit with customers. After receiving a considerable order at the Keith Show in 2016, Rachel and Graham decided to take the plunge and, in the same year, The Damside was born.

How Business Gateway has helped

In order to help grow their business, the couple turned to Business Gateway for one-to-one adviser support, as well as expert digital help via DigitalBoost.

Rachel Nowak, co-founder of The Damside, stated: “The guidance from our Business Gateway adviser, Catherine, has been instrumental in growing The Damside as a business. Throughout the process, we have received one-to-one advice, excellent networking opportunities and gained confidence in running a viable enterprise.

“The DigitalBoost resources have been exceptionally helpful, as our DigitalBoost adviser has spent considerable time mentoring us and helping us to develop a cohesive online presence for The Damside.”

What’s next?

Rachel continued: “Following support from Business Gateway and DigitalBoost, we are in discussions with multiple new stockists and are on course to double our turnover by 2020.”