‘Britain’s remotest shop’ in Durness up for sale for £645k
The most north westerly grocer's shop and post office on mainland Britain is up for sale for £645,000.
The shop at Durness in Sutherland sits on a key junction of the North Coast 500 - and it's been described as a "once in a lifetime" opportunity.
"The Durness Shop is not your average convenience store," admits agents, The Business Partnership.
"On offer is a once in a lifetime opportunity to own and operate an exceptional business at the heart of a community in a popular, much visited, iconic location.
“The village of Durness is wild and remote and marks the halfway point on the world famous NC500 route, now one of the ‘top 10 things to do ’in the world.
"This sale represents a unique opportunity to own a well established, highly respected and cherished business, which has its roots steeped in the local community, having traded for nearly 100 years.
"The Durness Shop benefits from a strong customer base with high levels of passing trade and footfall generated from a mix of tourists, campers visiting from the adjacent Camp Site and, of course support from locals.
“Located next to the largest campsite on the NC500, naturally this brings significant numbers of customers into the store. The business trades year - round, however the bulk (approximately 75%) of sales are generated from Easter through to October.
“Business is buoyant and continually evolving and improving. The business enjoys continued success year on year.”
"The store’s unique location dictates that the product range is extensive, from camping gear and engine oil to lottery and hardwood logs. This makes it basically a one stop shop. Trade is primarily driven through general food and drink sales. However, the business has worked hard tailoring its diverse, well curated product range to capture different tastes.
"The Post Office increases footfall and provides a vital service for the village and wider community. This essential service is the only post office for 30 plus miles. It not only provides postal services but basic banking such as paying bills and depositing cash.
"The business is open all year and meets the needs locals. Trade is significantly enhanced by seasonal visitors, especially from March to October. Opening hours are: 8am – 6pm Monday- Friday 9am- 6pm Saturday 9am-5pm Sunday (seasonal).
"At present, both owners work full time in the store and employ two additional full-time members of staff. During peak season, staffing increases by a further 3 seasonal full-time staff. As a recognised tourist destination, Durness is an attractive option for seasonal staff.
"A stunningly picturesque trading location which attracts both local customers and large numbers that make up the passing trade."
It said to be a "historic, successful trading record underpinned by a positive and well-established business reputation, highly profitable... with a seven-figure turnover."
It has the potential to grow, diversify and extend further through the utilisation/conversion of an adjoining barn.
