Free Fish Smokery on Scottish Island Lures Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Colonsay's Colonsay Smokery owner plans to hand over his business to a new owner, sparking interest from around the world as he seeks someone ready to embrace island life.

In an unprecedented move, Richard Irvine, a seasoned entrepreneur and owner of the Colonsay Smokery, is set to give away his business on the remote Scottish island of Colonsay, which is home to just 125 residents. This remarkable offer has attracted attention from aspiring businesspeople globally, with many eager candidates seeing the chance to take on the unique challenge of island life.

Irvine, 65, established the smokery in 2022 with the intention of eventually passing it on. He emphasizes that the new owner will receive not only the keys to the business but also invaluable training, customer contacts, and insider knowledge on the art of fish smoking—all at no cost. However, there is one significant stipulation: the recipient must commit to living on Colonsay.

Interest in this unusual opportunity has surged since media coverage began. Irvine has reported an influx of inquiries from individuals across several continents, including Caribbean dreamers and hopeful entrepreneurs from Europe and North America. "I'm getting loads and loads of inquiries from people I’d call dreamers and schemers," he noted, expressing surprise at the global reach of his offer.

In light of ongoing global issues such as economic instability and conflict, many see the picturesque lifestyle of Colonsay as an attractive escape from the chaos of urban areas. As he prepares to sift through numerous applicants, Irvine remains enthusiastic about finding the right fit for the future of his business and the island community. He anticipates selecting a new owner by midsummer, hopeful that they will cherish the opportunity as much as he does.