Bagpipe chanter reed-making business expands following support

About the business

Hebridean Reeds, based in North Shawbost on the west of the island, produces bagpipe chanter reeds using arundo donax cane grown in plantations in northern Spain to create vibrant and stable reeds with a refined tone.  

How Business Gateway has helped

Having identified an established consumer base of pipers and instructors, James approached Business Gateway for advice on how to develop his idea into an operational business.  

Through Business Gateway’s start-up services, James accessed one-to-one support from a dedicated business adviser, as well as advice on developing a robust business plan.  

James also benefitted from grant funding through the Comhairle’s COVID-19 Economic Recovery Grant Scheme (CERGS), as well as grant funding through the Outer Hebrides Young Enterprise Support Scheme, which is fully funded by Highlands and Islands Enterprise and delivered by Business Gateway. This funding was essential to help James purchase additional equipment, as well as converting his workshop space to get the business off the ground. 

James has enjoyed ongoing success since launching his business, with customers from across Scotland as well as Australia, New Zealand, United States, Canada and Germany.  

James Duncan Mackenzie, Owner, Hebridean Reeds, said: “Business Gateway has been a fantastic support in the run up to launching my business. The funding and advice has been a crucial part of getting Hebridean Reeds to the place it is currently and after only three months of trading, I am looking forward to what the future has in-store for my business.

Prominent pipers from across the globe are already playing Hebridean Reeds and the reeds have been played on some of the biggest stages in Scotland, including the OVO Hydro in Glasgow and at performances during Celtic Connections 2023. I’d recommend Business Gateway’s services to anyone looking for support.”