When Susan Heycoop retired after 27 years as a tour director, the West Dunbartonshire woman decided that her next career challenge would focus on her passion for baking. Launched in April 2014, with support from Business Gateway and start-up financial assistance received from West Dunbartonshire Council's Business Support Team, Mallow and Macaron does exactly what it says on the tin, producing delicious, all natural, gourmet marshmallows and French Macarons, in almost every flavour imaginable. Speaking of the support she received, Susan said "Business Gateway has been a great support. My adviser helped me with my business plan and also managed to secure some funding to help me get things moving. It's good to know I can pick up the phone anytime I have an issue. Business Gateway's free workshops have also been very useful."

Although Mallow and Macaron is proving a hit at Farmers' Markets and the website is seeing increased orders every week, Susan is not resting on her laurels and hopes to take on another member of staff and perhaps open a shop at some point in the future.

"Business Gateway has been a great support. My adviser helped me with my business plan and also managed to secure some funding to help me get things moving"