Former Michelin level pastry chef launches granola range with support from Business Gateway
A former Michelin level pastry chef has launched a new range of healthy granola after the owner accessed specialist support from Business Gateway.
Jacqueline Thompson set up The Golden Bottom Bakery in March 2024, after spotting a gap in the market for granola made using quality Scottish oats. The business produces a range of high-quality, artisan granola products.
Oats used at The Golden Bottom Bakery come from a farm in Ellon, in the North-East of Scotland, where its close proximity to the North Sea and space between the plants in the field grows high-quality, creamy grains.
The granolas Jacqueline has created are full of flavour, and also contain performance supporting ingredients.
There are currently two flavours available to customers – the Weekday variety offers a sustainable energy solution with Maca root powder and the slow-release benefits of oats, delivering consistent energy to help stay productive throughout the week; and the Weekend variety, which offers a more luxurious blend of hazelnut, tart cherry, and coconut flakes.
Jacqueline has brought the skills gained as a pastry chef under Lorna McNee at Cail Bruich – including a focus on attention to detail – to her business, as well as aiming for a celebration of Scottish produce. She also has the support of her two children, including her 17-year-old daughter, who has been the lead photographer for the business.
She has had a great response from local retailers in Stirling who have stocked her products since she began.
Jacqueline approached Business Gateway before she launched the business for support to ensure her online presence was ready prior to launch. She was introduced to her Business Gateway adviser Simon Orr, who provided 1:1 support for her in the lead-up to, and after, the launch.
The support Business Gateway gave significantly enhanced The Golden Bottom Bakery’s online presence and marketing capabilities, with specialist advice on marketing plans. This support has enabled the bakery to implement effective digital marketing strategies, engage with a wider audience, and drive higher sales through targeted social media campaigns and improved online visibility.
Business Gateway gave essential support to Jacqueline by helping to create a website for the business which, in turn, allowed her to expand her reach beyond the local area. All products can be ordered online and are stocked in select stores in the area, so an online presence was essential for the business.
Jacqueline Thompson, founder of The Golden Bottom Bakery, said: “Business Gateway has been a huge help in getting The Golden Bottom Bakery off the ground. The support, especially around building our online presence, made a big difference in reaching more customers right from the start. Thanks to Business Gateway’s advice, we’ve been able to really nail our digital marketing, which has boosted engagement and sales.
“As a small business, having that expert help has been amazing. I’m so excited to keep growing and sharing our artisan granola with even more people!”
Simon Orr, Business Gateway adviser said: “I’m thrilled to have supported Jacqueline in launching The Golden Bottom Bakery. Her passion for providing a healthy, nutritious breakfast for people is inspiring. Our goal at Business Gateway is to provide tailored advice that helps businesses like hers thrive, and it’s fantastic to see how Business Gateway’s support has helped her connect with a wider audience. We look forward to seeing The Golden Bottom Bakery continue to grow and succeed.”
