Uig couple who launched own craft gin business see sales soar 

About the business

Uig couple, Iain Irvine and Laura Jamieson, first launched The Isle of Lewis Gin in 2023, with support from Business Gateway. The product sold out within six days of going to market.  

How Business Gateway has helped

The couple worked with Business Gateway for six months in the lead up to the product launch.  

Through Business Gateway, the pair benefitted from one-to-one support from a dedicated business adviser, who provided advice on their business plan and cost projection.  

Iain and Laura went on to be awarded grant funding through the Outer Hebrides Young Enterprise Support Scheme, which is funded by Highlands and Islands Enterprise and delivered by Business Gateway. The funding went towards the purchase of the equipment required for distilling, bottling and labelling and has been integral to moving forward with their plans to open a small distillery on the island.  

Looking to the future, Iain and Laura are aiming to grow their own botanicals and produce the raw ingredients used to distil the grain neutral spirit.  

They also hope to extend their range of products, create local employment and contribute to the overall wellbeing of the island.  

Iain Irvine, Co-owner, Isle of Lewis Gin, said: “Our commitment is to provide a premium quality product for our customers, and we were very happy that our Business Gateway adviser completely understood our vision.  

“We are beyond grateful for the support and encouragement we’ve received so far, both from Business Gateway and from our wonderful island community. The grant we received has given us the opportunity to start our distillery much sooner than anticipated. As our business develops, we hope to be able to give back in the future.”