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Island business owner wants to give his firm away for free

Island business owner wants to give his firm away for free

Independent06-05-2025

Richard Irvine, the owner of Colonsay Smokery on the remote Scottish island of Colonsay, is giving his business away for free.
His goal is to attract a younger family to the island to boost its dwindling population and the local school's enrollment, which currently stands at four pupils.
Mr Irvine, 65, hopes the new owners will have an "entrepreneurial spirit" and contribute to the island's community.
He plans to mentor the chosen family for three months and may retain some decision-making power to ensure the business remains on the island.
Colonsay, with a population of 120, faces challenges due to its ageing demographic and remote location.

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