Wick-based Puldagon Farm Shop triumphs
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THE Caithness Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner took place last month, which was an opportunity for businesses across the north to come together and recognise their achievements.
Two forward-thinking businesses took home awards on the night, including accolades for young business of the year and young entrepreneur of the year.
Trudy Morris, chief executive of Caithness Chamber said she was delighted to be able to hold the event once again: “It was a significant event this year as guests gathered on Friday, November 11, for the Caithness Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Dinner for the first time since 2019.
“Covid restrictions and the period of mourning for Queen Elizabeth II had resulted in multiple postponements of the annual event.
“The dinner, at the Norseman Hotel in Wick, saw the north Highlands business community celebrate the resilience as well as the entrepreneurial spirit of the region.
“Despite the challenges and uncertainty that we continue to face, businesses came together to enjoy a night of celebration and networking.”
Bringing home the award for young business of the year was Wick-based, Puldagon Farm Shop and Restaurant.
Having been in operation for three years, it has built a loyal customer base by delivering fresh farm-to-table food surrounded by the countryside.
In the restaurant customers can have their favourite cravings freshly prepared to order. From a full Scottish breakfast to fluffy pancakes with blueberries and Belgian chocolate to locally caught Scrabster haddock and hand-cut chips to its very own home reared, farm to table Highland beef burgers, Puldagon has it all.
The shop stocks artisan and craft products from both local producers and those further afield. Whether it’s a cuddly toy Highland Coo or a bottle of locally distilled gin customers are looking for they will find it at Puldagon!
Greg Hooker, managing director of Puldagon Farm and Restaurant said it was a boost to his team to have been recognised at the event: “Winning the award means so much to us. Having just opened in 2019 we then had to battle compulsory Covid closures, which meant we had to continually adapt to allow us to continue.
“It is really great for the team to get some recognition for this hard work.”
For him personally, there have been several successes for the business during 2022 including the renovation of an old barn – which was originally WWII barracks – into a function hall.
He said: “Winning the award has been a massive success for us, alongside gaining our four-star accreditation.
“It has been great to have our first year in business without restrictions - our customers have been incredible.”
Puldagon Farm and Restaurant is also ensuring that it is continually reducing its carbon footprint, and is working to be more self-sufficient.
It now has even bigger plans for 2023.
“2023 should be an exciting year for us, with lots in the pipeline”, said Greg.
“We are going to create a wedding venue and work on allowing people to get a farm experience. We will also put an even bigger focus on the wellbeing of staff and customers.”
