People in Applecross are waking up to the smell of freshly brewed coffee, thanks to a new local business with big ambitions.

David Davidson (pictured above), the founder of Applecross Roastery, is bringing speciality coffee to the northwest Highlands after turning his lockdown hobby into a fully-fledged business venture. Located on the Applecross Peninsula, one of the most scenic stretches of the North Coast 500 – the micro-roastery will supply roasted beans to local cafés, restaurants, and shops starting this month.

The new venture has already secured wholesale partnerships with the Michelin Guide-recommended Walled Garden restaurant, Applecross Campsite, Applecross Bothy, and Applecross Inn. Retail bags will also be available at A&J Brown Grocers, with additional partnerships in the works.

David moved to Applecross in 2018 and discovered his passion for coffee during the Covid-19 pandemic. With more time on his hands, he began taste testing beans from around the world and learning the roasting process. After completing a training course at the Scottish Barista Academy in 2023, he is now in the process of transforming part of the commercial kitchen at Applecross Campsite – where he also works – into a fully functioning roastery.

To support the launch of the business, David has secured a £3,500 loan from DSL Business Finance through the British Business Bank’s Start Up Loans programme, helping cover the costs of initial stock and equipment.

Sourcing its beans from ethical importers Covoya, the roastery focuses on high-quality, sustainable coffee from countries including Colombia, Rwanda, and Tanzania. David has also teamed up with local creative Valerie Hodgkinson, co-owner of Applecross Croft, to design the brand’s logo and visual identity.

David said: “What started as a hobby during the pandemic quickly turned into something I was really passionate about. Starting the business has been a great learning experience, and the support from DSL Business Finance with my business plan and cash flow forecasts has been invaluable.

In the next five years, I hope Applecross Roastery becomes a staple in the area, supplying premium coffee across the peninsula and beyond. Supporting local businesses is more important than ever, and I’m grateful to be part of such a welcoming community.”

Looking ahead, David hopes to expand the business by growing his customer base along the North Coast 500, introducing more visitors to the flavours of Applecross.

Since its inception in 2012, the Start Up Loans programme has provided more than £4.4m to start ups in the Highland local authority area.

Barry McCulloch, Senior Manager, UK Network, Scotland at the British Business Bank, said: “David’s shift from hobbyist to entrepreneur is a brilliant example of how smaller businesses can start from humble beginnings and go on to have a big impact on rural communities.

Applecross Roastery not only introduced a new supply chain to the area but also helps support other businesses, boosting the local economy. We’re pleased to support David and look forward to seeing his business grow.”

Lindsay Hamilton, Loan Officer at DSL Business Finance, added: “It was lovely to see David’s passion for coffee lead him to the decision to start his own roastery and I was pleased that we could approve his application and make the Applecross Roastery a reality for him.

I was impressed with the initiative that he had shown in approaching the local businesses to ask them to stock his product, and I wish him every success in his new venture.”