The Press and Journal (Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire)
Funding helps firms get back to business
Coronavirus: Cash boost gives companies chance to adapt
Business owners in the far north have been speaking about the steps they are taking to adapt to the “new normal” as they reopen after the Covid-19 lockdown.
More than 120 of them have been helped to do so with a share of £100,000 funding from the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA).
It was the second round of cash made available to help local firms weather the crisis through the Caithness Business Fund, which is administered by Caithness Chamber of Commerce.
Among those to benefit was Teresa Wymer, owner of Stacks Coffee House and Bistro, at John O’Groats, which reopened yesterday after internal alterations.
Ms Wymer said: “As an independent business, we are proud this is our first ever funding application.
“Although we managed to trade on a very small scale in the later weeks, lockdown has cut a large chunk out of our vital summer season, much like others in hospitality.
“The grant we received from Caithness Business
Fund was helpful for purchasing inter-table screens for the bistro and other safety additions – all keeping customers safe while they enjoy their experience.”
Another recipient of funding was Bettyhill-based cleaners and laundrette Clean Bees, owned by
Joanna Mackenzie. Ms Mackenzie said: “We are currently looking at how we can phase back to work following the effects of Covid-19 on our business, and are looking to diversify and offer additional services. Being able to offer additional safety measures and processes will be vital in months and years to come.
“The support from the fund will enable us to invest in additional equipment and training to help businesses in the areas reopen, and to ensure that we can offer a service which meets their enhanced cleaning needs in future.”
John McNamara, head of stakeholder relations at the NDA, said: “We know local businesses are facing huge challenges and additional costs in adapting to new guidelines aimed at keeping their staff and customers safe, as they look to reopen.
“We are delighted to increase support to them through the Caithness Business Fund, and to re-affirm the NDA’s commitment to play a part in the Highland community’s efforts in recovery from the current crisis.”
“Lockdown has cut a large chunk out of our vital summer season”