Plunkett UK has been awarded £20,000 from The National Lottery Community Fund Scotland to strengthen its support for community-owned shops across Scotland.
The funding will help Plunkett provide more support to open and trading community shops, increasing retail knowledge and helping them remain resilient and viable at a challenging time for retailers.
There are more than 50 community-owned shops in Scotland, including those that serve some of the country’s most remote rural and island communities. As well as providing access to everyday essentials, they can provide important local services, support jobs and volunteering, and bring people together.
The funding will allow Plunkett to build on its existing specialist support for community-owned shops through training, opportunities to share knowledge and advice tailored to the needs of trading businesses.
Volunteers at the community-owned shop at Invermoriston in Inverness
It also supports Plunkett’s 2026–31 strategy, which places an increased focus on helping existing community businesses to remain strong and sustainable, alongside supporting new businesses to start. Working more closely with Scotland’s community shops will also help Plunkett listen to what they need and strengthen relationships with partners across Scotland.
Diane Cameron, Business Support Team Leader at Plunkett UK, said:
“Community-owned shops make a real difference to rural communities, particularly in remote areas and on Scotland’s islands, where they can provide much more than somewhere to buy everyday essentials.
“This funding will help us strengthen the support we already provide, giving shops more opportunities to build their retail knowledge, learn from each other and plan for the future. Plunkett is there for the life of a community business, supporting shops through the opportunities and challenges that come with trading.”
Barr Community Store, South Ayrshire
Are you involved with a community-owned shop in Scotland?
Plunkett provides specialist advice and support to community-owned shops, whether you are working towards opening or already trading. Get in touch to find out how we can help on 01993 630022 or at info@plunkett.co.uk
