Hospitality and leisure business case studies

Lintmill Lodges presents a charming getaway nestled in the picturesque village of Sorn. Designed for adults, especially couples, these bespoke woodland lodges come with the luxury of wood-fired hot tubs.

The serene retreat offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and cozy comfort, and is an ideal escape in the heart of East Ayrshire.

Founded by Nicola Young, Lintmill Lodges features three self-contained timber lodges, all just a short stroll from the village of Sorn.

As Nicola says:

Our lodges offer guests the charm of outdoor glamping with the comfort of a warm, cozy home, especially when the Scottish weather turns unpredictable

Each lodge is equipped with an en-suite shower room, a king-size bed, a fully equipped kitchen, and a snug seating and dining area.

The outdoor terrace boasts a private wood-fired hot tub, perfect for unwinding under the stars. Often, the hot tub is ready upon arrival, ensuring a truly indulgent experience from the get-go.

Marketing and online presence

Nicola explains:

We primarily market and book our accommodations online, with a strong emphasis on social media. Our website is essentially our 'shop window', so it needs to be informative, user-friendly, and visually appealing.

Developing the branding and logo was the first step, allowing Nicola to share the journey on social media, attract customer interest, and boost the online presence. Nicola attended Business Gateway webinars and courses to enhance her skills in creating engaging social media posts and reels.

Support from Business Gateway

Business Gateway has been instrumental in the establishment and growth of Lintmill Lodges.

Nicola shares:

The support from Business Gateway has been invaluable. They provided advice on choosing between a franchise or our own business model and then helped us develop a comprehensive marketing plan.

This support included setting up the website and social media accounts, which are crucial for driving direct bookings and engaging with potential guests.

Additionally, Business Gateway assisted with updating the business plan, reflecting the latest Visit Scotland statistics, current interest rates, and the economic climate. Nicola received guidance on financial reviews and secured funding for website development, branding, logo design, and social media communications support.

Nicola adds:

As a new business with limited marketing experience, the ongoing support and training from Business Gateway has been vital in our journey.

Conclusion

Lintmill Lodges is a testament to the power of well-directed business support combined with the dedication and vision of a young entrepreneur.

Nicola's vision, coupled with the expertise and resources from Business Gateway, ensures that Lintmill Lodges not only meets but exceeds guest expectations.

With the picturesque village of Sorn as its backdrop, Lintmill Lodges offers a unique and luxurious glamping experience, that provides unforgettable memories for all who visit.

Caffe Sala is a casual dining venue offering a distinctive blend of Italian culinary tradition and contemporary café culture.

Known for its high-quality coffee and authentic Italian flavours, the venue provides a warm and welcoming environment suitable for families and casual diners alike. The concept merges the energy of a café with the comfort of a restaurant, featuring both sit-in and takeaway options.

In addition to its food offerings, Caffe Sala presents a carefully curated drinks menu that appeals to a broad customer base, with a focus on cocktails, quality wines, and a selection of Italian spirits, beers, and ciders.

The venue also includes a retail element, showcasing imported goods that complement its Italian theme. Plans are in place to introduce a dedicated function space later in the year, designed to accommodate private dining, meetings, and events.

Positioned as a fresh and unique addition to the local hospitality scene, Caffe Sala aims to offer a differentiated experience within the area.

Energy efficiency in new premises

With the opening of a new location in Kilmarnock town centre, Caffe Sala identified the need for energy-related improvements to reduce costs and environmental impact.

The premises require upgrades to meet modern energy standards, and expert support is being sought to assess and implement energy-saving measures.

Key goals include:

• reducing energy consumption and operational costs
• minimising the business’ carbon footprint
• creating a sustainable foundation for future growth

By investing in energy efficiency from the outset, Caffe Sala aims to align its operations with environmental best practices while improving long-term profitability.

Digital transformation through a customer app

To elevate its marketing capabilities and customer experience, Caffe Sala is developing a mobile app tailored to its clientele. The app will serve as a platform for personalised engagement, loyalty rewards, and streamlined service.

App features will include:

• prepayment and order-ahead functionality to reduce waiting times
• storage of dietary preferences, previous orders, and payment methods
• bespoke loyalty programs based on individual buying patterns
• birthday recognition and targeted promotional campaigns

This digital transformation is expected to increase turnover by encouraging repeat business and helping the business navigate quieter trading periods. It will also reinforce Caffe Sala’s brand identity and support its ambition to expand across Ayrshire.

Conclusion

Through these two initiatives – energy efficiency upgrades and the launch of a customer app –Caffe Sala is demonstrating a commitment to sustainability, innovation, and customer-centric growth.

These projects not only address immediate operational needs but also position the business for long-term success and regional expansion.

The Garage Leisure Complex offers a diverse range of entertainment and leisure experiences designed to appeal to a broad audience.

From interactive activities like Ten Pin Bowling, Go Karting, and Adventure Golf, to dining and nightlife options including a family-friendly restaurant and a vibrant nightclub, the venue provides a comprehensive destination for social gatherings, family outings, and private events.

Driving sustainability and efficiency

As part of a broader zero-carbon initiative, The Garage Leisure Complex has upgraded its Go Karting facilities by replacing petrol-powered karts with electric alternatives.

This strategic move supports sustainability, improves operations, and enhances the customer experience.

Environmental impact

The switch to electric go-karts will result in significant environmental benefits:

• Zero Tailpipe Emissions: Electric karts produce no direct emissions, improving air quality within the facility
• Cleaner Energy Source: Karts will be powered by electricity from the grid, which includes a portion of renewable energy
• Carbon Reduction: Estimated reduction of approximately 18 tonnes of CO₂e per year, contributing meaningfully to the complex’s carbon reduction targets

Energy efficiency and cost savings

The transition is expected to deliver measurable improvements in energy efficiency:

• Annual Energy Cost Savings: Estimated at £6,630, due to the higher efficiency of electric motors and reduced fuel costs
• Reduced Energy Consumption: Electric karts consume less energy overall compared to combustion engines

Maintenance and operational benefits

Electric karts offer substantial operational advantages:

• Lower Maintenance Requirements: With fewer moving parts and no combustion engine, electric karts require less frequent servicing
• Cost Savings: Estimated annual maintenance savings of 20–30% (£2,000–£3,000)
• Improved Reliability: Reduced downtime and fewer mechanical issues lead to better customer throughput and operational consistency

Enhanced customer and staff experience

The upgrade improves the overall environment for both visitors and employees:

• Improved Indoor Air Quality: No fuel smells or exhaust fumes
• Lower Noise Levels: Electric karts operate more quietly, enhancing comfort and safety
• Higher Reliability: Fewer breakdowns and smoother operation improve the customer experience

Monitoring and reporting commitments

To ensure transparency and long-term impact, the following measures will be implemented:

• Electricity Usage Monitoring: Separate metering for kart charging stations
• Carbon Tracking: Annual CO₂e reductions tracked using Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) conversion factors
• Maintenance Logs: Comparative analysis of service intervals and costs pre- and post-conversion
• Feedback Collection: Ongoing staff and customer surveys to assess improvements in air quality, noise, and overall satisfaction

Game Vault Ayrshire Ltd is an exciting new addition to Ayrshire’s leisure and entertainment landscape, located in the heart of Kilmarnock.

With a diverse offering that includes:

• escape rooms
• virtual reality room
• rage room
• gaming zones
• pool table
• darts area
• snack/meeting space

Game Vault brings both a retro and modern entertainment option to the local community.

The challenge

As a new start-up, Game Vault Ayrshire faced the common challenges of visibility, digital presence, and customer engagement.

The team recognised the need for a strong digital strategy and physical signage to attract footfall and establish a brand identity in the local community.

The solution

Therefore, Game Vault sought support through East Ayrshire Council and local business grant schemes.

The support focused three key areas:

Website development

With guidance from the beDigital Ready consultancy, Game Vault developed a new, user-friendly website, designed to:

• allow online bookings for all activities
• showcase the venue’s unique offerings
• integrate with social media platforms
• provide a seamless experience for both customers and staff

Signage grant

East Ayrshire Council provided grant support for high-impact signage to increase visibility and attract walk-in customers. The signage not only promotes the business but also contributes to the vibrancy and regeneration of Kilmarnock town centre.

The impact:

• Increased Visibility: Eye-catching signage has significantly boosted foot traffic
• Digital Growth: Social media engagement is rising, and the upcoming website is expected to drive online bookings
• Job Creation: As bookings increase, Game Vault plans to hire additional staff
• Community Revitalisation: The business contributes to making Kilmarnock a more vibrant and attractive destination.
• Local Engagement: By offering a wide range of entertainment options in one location, Game Vault Ayrshire provides a convenient alternative to travelling long distances for celebrations and leisure. This helps residents enjoy quality time locally, saving both time and expense while supporting the local economy

Digital strategy and marketing support

Game Vault has received ongoing digital support to establish and grow its online presence. The client initially sought help with website specification and design, followed by targeted support in social media marketing and digital advertising.

Initial training focused on leveraging Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok to reach target customers. The client received guidance on setting up dashboards and parameters for optimal performance, developing engaging content, and managing customer interactions. Advice was also provided on Google AdWords and the potential benefits of Facebook and Google ad campaigns.

A follow-up digital surgery addressed advanced topics such as SEO integration with the soon-to-launch website and paid advertising strategies. With a monthly budget of £1,000 for ads and SEO, the client aimed to ensure precise targeting and data alignment to maximise reach and conversion.

Six months post-launch, the client requested further support to enhance promotional efforts. This included linking social media platforms with TikTok, creating video content, using hashtags, and exploring paid TikTok advertising. The session also covered social media analytics to enable a more data-driven approach to future campaigns.

The outcome

The tailored digital surgeries have equipped Game Vault Ayrshire Ltd with the tools and knowledge to effectively engage their target market, improve customer interaction, and increase business turnover.

Tabbi, the Manager, has played a key role in implementing these strategies, ensuring continuity and growth.

MY5s Kilmarnock is a newly established company formed to acquire and rejuvenate the former Soccer World Football Centre in Kilmarnock.

Originally opened in 2004, the facility had fallen into disrepair, with declining income and rising operational costs. MY5s aims to transform the site into a modern, energy-efficient, and community-focused sports hub that supports health, wellbeing, and local economic growth.

The facility currently includes seven football pitches and a pavilion with changing rooms and a function space, which is leased to a baby sensory business. Plans are underway to introduce a new café and commercial kitchen, enhancing the venue’s appeal and utility.

Community wealth building and regeneration

Recognising the potential of the site to serve the wider community, MY5s has committed to a full renovation of the premises. This includes:

• upgrading the pitches and pavilion
• creating a new café space
• enhancing visitor experience
• improving energy efficiency through net zero initiatives

The project is expected to increase annual turnover from £250,000 to £300,000 and expand the team from five to eight employees. The improvements will also provide long-term stability for the baby sensory business currently operating on-site.

Energy efficiency and net zero commitment

MY5s has applied for a Business Energy Audit Voucher through East Ayrshire Council to assess and improve the site’s energy usage. Immediate plans include:

• installing LED lighting
• upgrading the heating system
• renovating the shower facilities

These changes are expected to significantly reduce energy costs and improve the sustainability of the venue.

In addition, MY5s is seeking Net Zero Support funding to develop a commercial kitchen and cafeteria. This initiative will:

• utilise unused space within the building
• provide healthy meals to clients
• enable in-house catering for parties and summer camps
• reduce reliance on third-party food suppliers, cutting down on food transport emissions

Support from East Ayrshire Council

East Ayrshire Council have supported Future Remarketing Ltd in reopening and expanding The Brass and Granite in Kilmarnock after a two‑year closure.

Through start‑up funding, growth assistance, and Net Zero and consultancy support, the venue underwent major refurbishment and transformation. This investment restored a key town centre asset, created new jobs, and delivered a modern, energy‑efficient hospitality and live entertainment venue with wider community benefits.

Start-Up Grant

Future Remarketing Ltd successfully secured a Start-Up Grant from East Ayrshire Council to support the installation of new signage for The Brass and Granite at 53 Grange Street, Kilmarnock. The venue, previously owned by Greene King, had been closed for more than two years before returning to private ownership.

The funding enabled the business to invest in high‑quality, impactful signage that forms a key part of the wider refurbishment and relaunch of the venue as an affordable, entertainment‑focused establishment. This support contributed to creating a bold and inviting exterior that played an important role in the successful reopening. As part of this relaunch, five new jobs were created, and the venue has been reintroduced as a valuable platform for showcasing local music talent.

Growth

The wider investment in reopening this iconic town centre venue is bringing renewed vibrancy to Kilmarnock through new employment opportunities and the creation of a dedicated live‑music destination. Grant support will be used to acquire new equipment essential for the venue’s operation as it continues to develop.

The refurbishment retains popular original features—such as the well‑known ‘Killie Corner’ supporters’ area—while modernising the interior with upgraded systems, including contemporary sound and entertainment equipment. External enhancements, such as new awnings, will strengthen the building’s street presence and improve the visual appeal of the surrounding area.

Future Support

Net Zero

Future Remarketing Ltd is progressing with an application for Net Zero support to enable a series of energy‑efficiency upgrades at The Brass and Granite. The aim of the project is to replace ageing, inefficient systems with modern equipment that will reduce energy consumption, lower running costs and support the business’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint.

The planned improvements include the installation of approximately 50 low‑energy lighting units, as well as upgraded electric heating and hot‑water systems serving customer areas, the kitchen and other operational spaces. These replacements will significantly improve efficiency compared to the obsolete equipment currently in place.

In addition, the business intends to install a new high‑efficiency air‑conditioning system to improve environmental control within the venue. Only two quotations were obtained for this element, as only two suppliers were able to deliver and install the system within the tight timeframe for reopening.

Collectively, these upgrades form a key part of the venue’s sustainability strategy, supporting both environmental objectives and the long-term viability of operations through reduced energy usage and improved system reliability.

Consultancy

The business is to undertake an Energy Audit for its town‑centre premises in Kilmarnock. The building, which is believed to date from the 1950s, operates as a bar and live music venue and carries significant energy costs, particularly for heating. Despite recent modernisation efforts, rising energy prices continue to place substantial pressure on operating expenditure.

Given the building’s flat‑roof structure, the business is keen to explore the potential for installing solar power as part of its long‑term sustainability strategy. An Energy Audit would provide the expert assessment needed to evaluate the feasibility of solar installation and to identify additional opportunities to improve efficiency throughout the premises.

This support would help the business make informed decisions about reducing energy usage, lowering costs and minimising its overall carbon footprint, aligning with broader Net Zero objectives.

Conclusion

East Ayrshire Council’s support has been vital to Future Remarketing Ltd in relaunching The Brass and Granite as a renewed cultural and social hub in Kilmarnock.

Start‑up funding enabled key improvements and new local jobs, while continued growth support is strengthening operations.

Planned Net Zero investment and specialist consultancy will enhance energy efficiency and long‑term sustainability, demonstrating how targeted public-sector assistance can boost economic activity and protect valued community assets.