Significant Highland Hospitality Sale Completed as The Crofter Bar Changes Hands
Scottish Business Agency Completes Significant Seven-Figure Sale of Fort William’s Iconic Crofter Bar
Fort William, Scotland – May 2025
Scottish Business Agency is delighted to announce the successful sale of The Crofter Bar & Restaurant, Fort William, in a significant seven-figure transaction within Scotland’s licensed hospitality sector.
Located prominently on Fort William High Street, The Crofter has become one of the town’s most recognised and established hospitality venues, serving both locals and the ever-growing tourism market visiting the Highlands year-round. The business was owned and operated by Dale Monk for over 20 years, with Dale having owned the property for more than a decade, building it into one of the busiest and most respected operations in the area.
Fort William continues to cement itself as one of Scotland’s premier tourism and hospitality destinations. Often referred to as the “Outdoor Capital of the UK”, the town benefits from year-round visitor demand driven by Ben Nevis, the West Highland Way, Glen Nevis, Glencoe and the wider Highlands tourism market. The area also attracts substantial international tourism through landmarks such as the Glenfinnan Viaduct and Jacobite Steam Train, alongside its global recognition through productions including Harry Potter and Skyfall.
The sale demonstrates the continued strength and resilience of Scotland’s licensed trade market, particularly for high-performing, destination-led hospitality businesses. Despite wider economic challenges facing the sector, strong operators in prime tourism locations continue to attract significant buyer demand, especially where there is an opportunity for hands-on ownership and future growth.
The purchaser, an experienced Glasgow-based hospitality operator, has relocated to Fort William to take a direct, hands-on approach to the business moving forward — a reflection of both the strength of The Crofter itself and the long-term confidence in the Fort William hospitality market.
Scottish Business Agency handled the sale process on behalf of the seller, with interest received from multiple parties across Scotland and further afield. The transaction highlights the increasing appetite for well-established freehold hospitality assets in key Scottish tourism destinations.
The Crofter represented a rare opportunity within the market, combining a highly established trading business with substantial property ownership in one of Scotland’s busiest tourism locations. The business had reported turnover in excess of £1.55 million net of VAT, alongside strong year-on-year growth and significant wet-led trade with 750+ MAT.
Josh Hill of Scottish Business Agency commented:
“This was a fantastic transaction to conclude and represents a hugely positive result within the Scottish licensed and hospitality sector. Dale built an exceptional business over more than 20 years through relentless hard work and consistency, creating one of Fort William’s best-known wet-led hospitality venues. We were delighted to secure a committed buyer who shares the same hands-on passion for the trade and recognised the long-term potential of both the business and Fort William itself.”
For more information or to arrange a FREE CONFIDENTIAL BUSINESS APPRAISAL, please contact Scottish Business Agency; Josh Hill at 07927 076496 or josh@scottishbusinessagency.co.uk or Mark Jackson at 07412968007 or mark@scottishbusinessagency.co.uk
Turn-Key Bar & Bistro Comes to Market in Uphall
Renowned Volunteer Arms in Uphall Hits the Market After Nearly 20 Years of Ownership
Uphall, West Lothian – September 2025
The much-loved Volunteer Arms, a staple of Uphall’s hospitality scene, has officially been placed on the market — presenting a rare opportunity for an ambitious buyer or hospitality investor to take on a thriving bar and bistro with huge potential.
Owned since 2006, the property and business are now being offered for sale as the current owners look to step back after almost two decades at the helm. During this time, the Volunteer Arms has earned a strong reputation locally, operating successfully under management while maintaining an immaculate standard throughout.
The venue boasts a stylish bar and welcoming bistro, supported by a fully fitted commercial kitchen and the added bonus of outdoor seating — a popular feature with customers in the warmer months.
With its prime location in Uphall, Broxburn and well-established trade, the Volunteer Arms is described as “a fantastic turn-key hospitality opportunity” for someone who can build on its solid foundations and unlock further growth.
Scottish Business Agency commented:
“This is a superb opportunity for a buyer with passion and energy to step straight into a well-run business with an excellent reputation. Last year saw an overhaul of the menu structure and now The Volunteer Arms is a fantastic base for success — the drive of an owner-operator would take it to the next level.”
The Volunteer Arms continues to operate as normal during the sale process, welcoming its loyal customer base and visitors from across West Lothian.
For more information or to arrange a confidential discussion, please contact Mark Jackson of Scottish Business Agency at 07412968007 or mark@scottishbusinessagency.co.uk
Glasgow Favourite ‘Cranberry’s’ Has a Third Owner in 25 Years — New Era Begins in Merchant City
Merchant City, Glasgow – August 2025
After more than 25 years as a much-loved fixture in the heart of Merchant City, Glasgow café and deli Cranberry’s has officially been sold — ushering in a new era for the iconic local business.
The sale was brokered by Scottish Business Agency, specialists in hospitality transactions across Scotland, and marks the café’s transition to its third owner since opening.
Outgoing owner Kirsten, who has played a key role in maintaining Cranberry’s strong local reputation, will remain involved in the business for the foreseeable future, providing continuity for its loyal customer base.
Taking over the reins is Steven Jacobs, an experienced hospitality entrepreneur with a portfolio of successful ventures across Glasgow. Jacobs has exciting plans to revitalise Cranberry’s, including making full use of its alcohol licence and leveraging its prominent corner location in the heart of Merchant City to attract new audiences.
“Cranberry’s has a special place in this community, and I’m proud to be its next chapter,” said Jacobs. “We want to preserve the charm that people love while introducing new offerings that make it even more of a destination with a strong emphasis on evening & bar trade.”
Cranberry’s will continue to operate as normal, with familiar faces and the same warm atmosphere — alongside thoughtful developments over the coming months.
Mark Jackson
Business Broker
07412 968007
mark@scottishbusinessagency.co.uk
Popular Lanarkshire pub announces closure
News
A popular pub in North Lanarkshire wished its regulars “all the best” as it call last orders for the last time due to spiralling energy costs.
The Bullfrog Bar, on Shields Road, Motherwell, announced on social media “we just cannot afford the electricity costs”.
The pub had been up for sale but hasn’t found a buyer for either the business or the building.
Known fondly as The Bully, the pub – managed by publican Tony Reynolds – has been part of the fabric of the local community for years.
The post on the Bullfrog’s Facebook page said: “Our time is just about up l’m afraid.
“We have to close the doors as we can no longer compete with energy costs spiralling out of control.
“We have a function on this Friday in the bar…after that it could be goodbye from us.
“We had hoped to continue to trade until a buyer for the business, or building, had been found but alas we just cannot afford the electricity costs. If you want to come in over the weekend to say goodbye please do so.
“From a personal point of view its been a pleasure getting to know you over the years…l hope to keep in touch with the many friends made.
“I sincerely hope our landlord Peter can find a buyer to keep the pub going but, in this climate, it is a big ask.
“To all the staff who have helped over the last few years…many thanks, you have been top notch. All the best from the Bully.”
The news was met with sadness from locals who responded to the news on Facebook that the pub was closing for good.
Fraser Campbell said: “So sorry to hear this. it will be the end of an era. It was a pleasure and a privilege to play for the bully pool team for as long as I did. I wish everyone all the best for the future.”
Steven McGowan added: “Sad news, wishing all staff good luck and hopefully you all find work sooner rather than later…and hope a buyer comes and gets the Bullly up and running once this energy crisis is over.”
While Ellen Roy said: “What a sad day had many a great day/night in “The Bully”, all the best Tony.”
The pub was also home to the Kieran Tierney Celtic Supporters Club, and the local of the Arsenal and Scotland star who, despite being a non-drinker, was often spotted with his mates there before his big-money move south to the English Premiership.
Landlord Navan Taverns who own the Bullfrog have warned that other licensed premises in the town are also at risk of closing for good.
A spokesman said: “People aren’t coming out as much as they used to either because everybody is suffering.
“It is not something that has been decided overnight, it’s a process that has been thought about.
“We aren’t the first pub to close and we aren’t going to be the last to close during these times.”
That sentiment was echoed by the management of the White House Bar in Holytown who posted: “So sad to hear the Bullfrog in Motherwell is closing. It is a very difficult time for everyone in the industry.
“We take this time to thank you all, and appreciate every single person who comes through our doors.
“We know how hard it is for every family at this time.
“So when you get the chance to go for a night out, please keep it local, we need you more than ever.”
The Bullfrog is for sale at offers over £350,000 and is being marketed on behalf of the owner by Scottish Business Agency. For more details visit: scottishbusinessagency.co.uk/business/the-bullfrog/
source: The Daily Record https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/in-your-area/lanarkshire/popular-lanarkshire-pub-announces-closure-28545209
Prominent Glasgow business Saint Judes sold
News
Popular late night venue and restaurant Saint Judes has been sold by property agents Josh Hill & Mark Jackson of Scottish business agency. A deal was brokered for the leasehold site after Mark introduced a purchaser early on. SBA were instructed to find a buyer confidentially, and as a result identified a handful of keen operators interested in expanding their presence in the Glasgow city centre.
Privately owned Chip Shop in Alloa sold confidentially
News
The Bridge Cafe was owned and operated successfully for 29 years by the same owner. When the time had come to move on SBA were appointed confidentially to find a suitable buyer.
After a short instruction period, Josh was able to broker a deal with an existing chip shop operator who operates multiple sites across Glasgow. It was clear from the outset after the first viewing that the new owner was serious about putting in an offer to acquire the business as a going concern.
Scottish Business Agency appoints new Director
News
Mark Jackson will work alongside Josh Hill in helping clients to sell and acquire businesses across Scotland. Mark’s previous experience in both client relationships and growth adds a further dynamic when negotiating with purchasers which can sometimes be a difficult process to go through. Mark’s focus is on building long-standing client relationships across Scotland with all business owners across various sectors including; pubs, restaurants, cafes, hotels and guest houses.
Gin 71 brokered and sold to first time buyer
News
Gin71 is a well renowned brand, having been established in May 2012, when they opened the Renfield Street site, with the Merchant City unit opening in October 2015, before expanding the group’s offering and opening the Gin Spa in December 2017. They previously had an Edinburgh site, as well as a concession within the House of Fraser in Glasgow, and are currently in talks to expand the brand name in a new development in Glasgow’s Financial District at the River Clyde, as well as expanding the spa business.
A deal was struck after running a short marketing process and sold to a first time buyer for over the asking price within 6 months of starting the marketing campaign.
SBA announces new digital media partners
News
Based in Ayrshire, Launch provides web design, digital marketing & branding to boost visibility & grow sales for businesses in Glasgow, London, Ayrshire & UK. This exciting new partnership will allow SBA to offer a new range of services within the commercial property market across Scotland. This includes bespoke marketing packages that they can tailor to suit new and existing clients thinking of selling their business across a range of sectors within the hospitality sector to include, public houses, restaurants, hotels.
“From our first meeting with the team we knew we wanted to work with Launch. Family owned and focussed on delivering to the highest standard, their values and vision going forward really mirrors what we want to achieve with SBA. Building long standing relationships is the key to success in business, we can see ourselves working together as we grow.” – Josh Hill