Context:

Richard Irvine, a 'serial business creator' and owner of the Colonsay Smokery, is offering to give away his fish smoking business to a suitable candidate who is willing to relocate to the remote Scottish island of Colonsay. The island, with a population of 125, presents a unique lifestyle opportunity away from the hustle of city life, attracting global interest from people referred to as 'dreamers and schemers.' Irvine hopes the giveaway will help address the island's demographic challenges by attracting younger residents. He built the smokery with the intention of creating economic opportunities on Colonsay, investing £50,000 and partnering with a Norwegian seafood company for fish supply. Candidates considered ideal are those who can work remotely and manage the smokery, with the potential for a rewarding life close to nature and community ties.

Dive Deeper:

• Richard Irvine established the Colonsay Smokery in 2022 with the goal of eventually giving it away to someone willing to live on the remote island of Colonsay, Scotland. This offer has attracted international interest following media coverage.

• The island, located 20 miles from the Scottish mainland, is known for its tranquil lifestyle, featuring sandy beaches, scenic paths, and a small, tight-knit community, appealing to those seeking an escape from urban life.

• Colonsay faces demographic challenges with an aging population and limited job opportunities, which Irvine aims to address by offering his business to attract younger residents and families to the island.

• Irvine, who has a diverse background in business creation, invested £50,000 into the smokery, learning the trade and collaborating with a Norwegian seafood company, MOWI, for fish supply at a preferential rate.

• The smokery's products are sold locally and on the mainland, and Irvine envisions the ideal candidate for taking over the business as part of a young professional couple or family, with one partner working remotely.

• The smokery project emerged partially due to a disrupted retirement plan Irvine and his wife had, which was affected by their son’s situation during the pandemic, highlighting the personal connection and investment in the island.

• Irvine emphasizes the rewarding aspects of life on Colonsay, such as the natural beauty and close community bonds, despite acknowledging the significant lifestyle change required to run the smokery successfully.