Grantown business openings bolster Cairngorms town for 2022
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Grantown-on-Spey can look forward to 2022 with confidence despite the ongoing challenges of the pandemic, the leader of the town’s business association has said.
While last year saw the cancellation of most of the town’s outdoor events – including its famous New Year party and fireworks display – two recent new additions to the High Street and the forthcoming opening of a major attraction have boosted hopes for a successful year.
Grantown Business Association chairwoman Karen Martin said that the town has unique attractions to offer tourists looking for a holiday in the Cairngorms National Park, which are being promoted with a new video.
In further good news, she welcomed the re-opening of two vacant shops on the High Street. Smarty Art, a ceramic painting studio, has reopened under new ownership, while craft brewery Two Thirsty Men has opened a new off-licence in adjacent premises.
The town’s green credentials were also boosted last year with the opening of Fiona’s Wholefoods, which offers refills to reduce plastic waste.
This summer will herald the opening of one of Scotland’s newest distilleries, The Cairn by Gordon & MacPhail is under construction on the outskirts of the town.
Mrs Martin said: “Grantown Business Association is delighted that Smarty Art is back – with new owners and a fresh look. We wish Declan and Nikka Gallagher the best of luck with their new venture.
“Likewise, the opening of Two Thirsty Men is fantastic news. This business is bringing new life to a long-vacant shop. It’s great to have an off-licence adding to the mix of food and drink experiences in Grantown. Gordon and Sinead Whyte’s plans to create a brewery in the rest of the building will create a fantastic attraction to the town.
“The two businesses are a sign of continued confidence in the town and add to its vibrancy. We can be proud that our High Street is full of independent shops and we should be proud to tell everyone about our town.”
Supported by a grant from Visit Scotland’s Destination and Sector Marketing Fund, the business association has also produced a video showcasing the businesses and activities in Grantown. Well-known local musician Hamish Napier has contributed the music to accompany the film.
The grant is also supporting a range of marketing activity, including photography and social media promotions, to promote the town as a holiday destination to discover on foot or by bike in 2022. A new slogan, The Natural Place for People, is also being used in marketing material.
Mrs Martin said: “New videos, photography and blogs have been created to showcase everything that is great about Grantown.
“And there is so much to shout about! From our beautiful landscape and delicious food to unique whisky tours and exciting outdoor adventures, we have a wonderful town and we are looking forward to welcoming visitors here in 2022.”
Caitlin McLeod, regional development executive at visitscotland, said: “The destination and sector marketing fund was created to support the sustainable recovery of Scottish tourism. it aims to help organisations reach out to new visitors within the UK and promote year-round visitor experiences.
“It has been a pleasure meeting and working more closely with Grantown Business Association as they develop their campaign and I look forward to continuing working with them on future tourism opportunities. Our research shows that visitors are looking for a holiday where they can connect with the local community, and Grantown’s new marketing activity will help to inspire visitors to shop local, visit local attractions and take part in outdoor activities.”
