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Dumfries And Galloway Farm Scoops Success With New Gelato Venture


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A family-run farm based tourist destination in Castle Douglas has launched a new gelato venture, using milk from its own herd of pedigree Holstein cows to create fresh gelato, after securing support from Business Gateway.


Ernespie Farm Centre, led by the McMiken family, has been a working farm for generations but in recent years has diversified into tourism to secure its long-term future. It is now a popular destination for visitors across Dumfries and Galloway, offering a farm-to-fork restaurant, gift shop as well as indoor and outdoor play.


In April 2025, the family opened ‘The Gelato Hut’, which scoops up to 18 flavours 7 days a week, including seasonal specials and warm bubble waffles at their evening events. Specialist equipment enables the team to transform their own milk into delicious, creamy gelato, all produced on-site.

The expansion into gelato production helps to reduce food miles for visitors and secures local employment. There are also plans underway to supply their gelato to local businesses, further boosting the local economy.


The team has a real focus on sustainability, using products produced in the bakery of The Farmhouse Kitchen on-site as additions in their gelato. As well as the milk being used in the gelato, all the beef served in The Farmhouse Kitchen restaurant comes from their own cattle.


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Director David was determined to find new ways to strengthen the business and provide year-round opportunities, so approached Business Gateway. Through this, David met Business Gateway adviser Fiona Smyth, who supported him with developing business plans, innovation support, advice on funding and advice on expanding premises.


Alongside the gelato venture, Ernespie Farm has also invested in a new digital booking system, allowing visitors to book farm park entry, seasonal events and restaurant tables online, helping to increase efficiency and boost occupancy.


David McMiken, director at Ernespie Farm Centre, said:

“Diversification has been key to future-proofing our farm. Launching the gelateria has allowed us to make the most of what we produce here on the farm and offer something unique for our visitors. Business Gateway’s support with funding was invaluable - we simply couldn’t have made this level of investment without it. It’s exciting to now see our gelato being enjoyed on-site and by the wider community.”

Gail Macgregor, chair of Business Gateway board, said:

“The team at Ernespie Farm has been incredibly proactive in adapting the business and finding new opportunities for growth. The gelateria is a fantastic addition that not only strengthens the farm park offering but also creates new employment and sustainability benefits for the local area. It’s a great example of diversification done well and Business Gateway is proud to have supported the project.”

To find out more about how Business Gateway can help your business, visit here.


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  • Writer: Linda Andrews - Editorial Assistant, Nuse Online
    Linda Andrews - Editorial Assistant, Nuse Online
  • Jan 9
  • 2 min read
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Johnsons Nurseries Ltd is proud to announce the successful completion of its autumn/winter Plant Identification Training Programme, an initiative aimed at enhancing employees' plant knowledge and skills. This seasonal training programme exemplifies the company’s commitment to fostering professional development and building expertise within its team.


25 Employees who completed the programme were formally recognized in a special ceremony, receiving certificates awarded by Group Managing Director Graham Richardson and Production Director Robert Richardson.


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The programme builds on a year-round dedication to education, complementing earlier spring and summer Plant Identification Sessions.


Together, these programmes provide employees with an in-depth understanding of a wide range of plant groups across all seasons.


In addition to Plant Identification Training, employees have had the opportunity to engage in Plant Health Training and enrol in the Bespoke ‘Introduction to Horticulture’ Course at Askham Bryan College. These initiatives ensure employees are equipped with a robust skill set that encompasses plant care, identification, and overall health management.


Outstanding Achievements

Throughout the programme, employees demonstrated outstanding dedication. Simon Harrison and Ed Greaves achieved a perfect score of 20/20 in every session and 100% attendance.


High scorers included Hannah Reilly, Sarah Perry, Kristian Kuzsel, Rolanda Peleckiene, Ashley Robinson, and Judah Muawuli, all of whom consistently excelled.


The most improved participants were Ashley Robinson, Rolanda Peleckiene, Chris Pearce, and Tom Laws, showcasing their dedication to growth.


New team members Liam Williamson, Charlie Binge, Richard Knowles, and Judah Muawuli made impressive contributions and achieved high scores despite being new to the company.


Looking Ahead

Group Managing Director Graham Richardson said:

"Johnsons remains committed to ongoing employee development. Plans for 2025 include expanded training opportunities, such as the next round of the ‘Introduction to Horticulture’ Course at Askham Bryan, more Plant Identification Sessions, and more Plant Health Training."
"Our investment in our team reflects our belief that a knowledgeable workforce is key to delivering the best possible service. We’re excited to continue building on this success.”

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