Colonsay, a small and remote Scottish island, is making waves with a remarkable business offer—one that could change the life of anyone brave enough to take it on.
Richard Irvine, the owner of Colonsay Smokery, has announced he’s willing to hand over his thriving business to the right person, free of charge. But, there’s a catch: the new owner must commit to living on the island, a community of only 125 people. It’s an intriguing proposition that has captured attention worldwide.
The Business Opportunity on Colonsay
Richard Irvine, a serial entrepreneur, is no stranger to risk. His latest venture, the Colonsay Smokery, which he established in 2022, has been designed with a unique twist: he plans to give it away. Yes, you read that right—he wants to hand over the keys to his fish smoking business, along with his loyal customers and everything required to run it, for absolutely nothing.
The only requirement? You must move to Colonsay, a secluded island off Scotland’s west coast.
For Irvine, this isn’t just about generosity. He believes the right person could bring fresh energy and ideas to the island’s small but growing community. As he put it, he’s searching for someone who will “take the reins and make it their own.” It’s clear that this isn’t your typical business sale.
The Growing Global Interest
Since the BBC first covered Irvine’s offer, interest has poured in from across the globe. People from Italy, Spain, the United States, and even as far as St. Lucia have expressed interest. Irvine’s inbox has been flooded with inquiries from people he describes as both “dreamers and schemers.” While many seem excited by the chance to escape to an idyllic island, there’s no shortage of those looking to turn this rare opportunity into a business venture or personal project.
“I’ve been inundated,” Irvine said. “One inquiry came in from St. Lucia, and another from the US. The interest is crazy.”
Although the influx of applicants is overwhelming, Irvine remains hopeful that he will find the right person. By midsummer, he plans to make his decision. The criteria for selection remain a mystery, but it’s clear that living on a remote island isn’t for the faint of heart.
Colonsay: A Slice of Serenity
Colonsay might not be on everyone’s radar, but its charm is undeniable. Located about 20 miles off the coast of mainland Scotland, this tiny island stretches just 10 miles long and two miles wide. The population of 125 people leads a slower-paced life, which, for many, is part of the allure.
The island is a haven for nature lovers, offering stunning landscapes, sandy beaches, and scenic paths perfect for leisurely walks. Those seeking a break from urban chaos may find solace in its simplicity.
In addition to the smokery, the island has a small range of amenities. There’s a golf course, a seasonal local publication called The Colonsay Times, a bookshop, and a handful of dining spots and pubs where locals can socialize.
The slower pace doesn’t mean Colonsay lacks a story to tell. The island even made international headlines in March when a former Irish banker, accused of fraud, was found to have been living there under a new identity for years. Irvine recalls him as “a really charming chap,” even though his building skills were less than impressive.
What Makes Colonsay So Attractive?
For some, the idea of island life may sound like an escape from the noise of modern life. While it certainly comes with challenges—like isolation and the unpredictable weather—many see it as an opportunity to reconnect with nature and build a simpler existence.
The chance to live on Colonsay while running a business offers an even rarer opportunity. It’s not every day that someone offers you the chance to take over a well-established business with customers, stock, and know-how already in place.
However, living on Colonsay isn’t without its difficulties. The island’s remote location and small population mean that residents are closely knit. Those considering the opportunity must be ready to embrace this close community, which may take some getting used to for those accustomed to the anonymity of big cities.
But for those ready for a slower, more fulfilling pace of life, Colonsay offers the perfect backdrop to make it all possible. After all, how many people get the chance to start fresh, on their own terms, in such a spectacularly unique setting?
A New Chapter for Colonsay Smokery
For Richard Irvine, this offer represents a new phase in his life and his business. After years of building the smokery from scratch, he’s ready to pass the torch and see someone else take it to new heights.
“I’m not looking to make a huge amount of money. I just want to see the business survive and thrive,” Irvine said. “This is my gift to someone who wants a new start.”
The smokery is a solid foundation for the right person, offering the chance to build relationships, develop new products, and grow the business further. It’s also a way to become deeply embedded in the local culture and lifestyle of the island.
For now, the world waits to see who will take on the challenge. Will it be a dreamer seeking peace? Or a schemer ready to turn the opportunity into a profitable venture? Only time will tell.
