A family-run candle company on the Isle of Arran is celebrating after winning an Ayrshire business award recognising its contribution to the island’s economy and community.
Isle of Arran Candle Company, founded by husband and wife Daniel and Vik Steel, was named Community Wealth Building Business of the Year at the Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce Business Awards on Friday, 2 October.
The company was also shortlisted for Start-Up Business of the Year and was the only Arran business shortlisted across any category at this year’s awards.
The win follows a year of substantial growth, with the company reporting that turnover has quadrupled while it has continued to invest in production, retail and opportunities for fellow island businesses.
All of its candles and diffusers are designed and handmade on Arran.
One of its most significant projects has been transforming the former Bank of Scotland building in Brodick into its flagship shop.
The building had stood vacant for two years before being brought back into use, creating a new retail destination in the village and a showcase for island-made products.
The company has also launched the Arran Design Collective, providing space for local artists, makers and designers to showcase and sell their work.
The initiative aims to help more of the money generated through tourism and visitor spending remain within the island community.
Daniel Steel, co-founder of Isle of Arran Candle Company, said: “We are absolutely thrilled and incredibly proud to have won Community Wealth Building Business of the Year.
“To be recognised at an awards programme covering the whole of Ayrshire is a huge achievement for a small family business from Arran. To then be the only business from the island shortlisted, and to come away with the award, makes it even more special.”
He paid tribute to the company’s team and said the business wanted its success to create opportunities for others.
“For us, community wealth building is about making sure that when our business grows, that growth creates opportunities for other people and businesses around us too,” he said.
“We make our products here on Arran, we’ve brought an empty building back into use in the heart of Brodick, and through the Arran Design Collective we’re helping other island makers to reach new customers.”
The Community Wealth Building award recognises the company’s wider economic and community contribution, while its place among the Start-Up Business of the Year finalists reflected its commercial growth since launching.
Daniel and Vik hope the recognition will also draw greater attention to Arran’s independent businesses, makers and entrepreneurs.
Daniel added: “We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who has supported us on this journey. This award is a real celebration of what can be achieved by a small family business on an island, and we’re very proud to be flying the flag for Arran.”
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