North Uist entrepreneur’s food company sells 10,000th meal

And Stewart’s Kitchen, set up by Douglas Stewart, is fast approaching the £1 million turnover milestone.

Since its major retail deal with the Co-op launched less than three months ago, the Scottish pre-prepared meal firm has enjoyed soaring sales.

Stewart’s Kitchen launched under the umbrella brand of The Hebridean Food Company in June, 2020.

A lobster fisherman’s son and an advocate for home grown food, Douglas has drawn inspiration from his island roots and love of delicious fresh food to set up Stewart’s Kitchen to provide high quality, delicious dishes for those short on time when it comes to cooking.

Douglas, who is managing director of the Lanarkshire-based company, employing nine people, said: “This achievement shows the demand for our produce.

“Our primary aim is to encourage more people to enjoy fresh Scottish produce and it’s fantastic that our range in the Co-op has been well received.”

With dishes and soups handmade using artisan produce by a small team of culinary masters, Stewart’s Kitchen is proud of its Hebridean roots and uses fresh, locally sourced ingredients with the aim to bring the best of Scotland’s larder to more people at home.

The deal is currently in 69 Co-op stores meaning hearty soups and nutritious meals can be found at stores across Scotland.

The flavoursome, handmade dishes include Chicken Braemar wrapped in streaky bacon and filled with Stornoway blackpudding, served with buttery mashed potato and a rich peppercorn sauce; Ayrshire cured pulled ham served with a rich potato gratin, topped with a cheddar crumb; and tender Scottish beef olive slow cooked in a rich onion gravy, served with an indulgent creamy mashed potato.

Kevin Buchan, Co-op Local sourcing buying manager for Scotland, said: “We are delighted to be working closely with local suppliers such as Stewart’s Kitchen.

“Co-op is all about connecting communities, making a difference and creating value locally, and our work to celebrate and support local suppliers, while promoting and showcasing great Scottish food and drink, is a cornerstone of this approach.”