Be Happy Breaks Scotland

Business Overview

Bee Happy Breaks Scotland Ltd, founded by Joyce and Alan Jamieson, provides self-catering accommodation on their property in West Tofts, Stanley, near Perth. The business started with a studio apartment, known as “The Hive”, attached to their home. After a successful test run from May to September 2023, the Jamiesons saw strong occupancy rates and identified local demand for further expansion.

With planning permission in place, Bee Happy Breaks Scotland Ltd plans to add two Shepherds huts and a cabin to their property by 2025, increasing their offering from one to four units. This expansion will help the business meet the growing demand for unique rural stays while providing the Jamiesons with a sustainable long-term retirement plan.

Business Requirement

To fund the groundwork and purchase of the Shepherds huts, Joyce and Alan sought a loan of from DSL Business Finance Ltd. They had already invested £5,500 in the project for planning permission and in addition contributed 27% of the total cost from their personal savings, demonstrating their commitment to the business’s success. The loan is being used to cover the purchase of the 2 shepherds huts, fitting out of them, connection to services and installing their USP of decking with outdoor baths. The Jamiesons investment has covered all groundworks. Further expansion will be financed through self-generated funds.

The £48,000 loan from DSL Business Finance is part of the British Business Bank’s £150 million Investment Fund for Scotland (IFS), which was launched in October 2023. The fund offers loans ranging from £25,000 to £2 million, as well as equity investments up to £5 million. DSL Business Finance manages the Smaller Loan Fund, which provides loans from £25,000 to £100,000.

Securing the Business Loan

Bee Happy Breaks Scotland Ltd required the loan to assist with the purchase of the Shepherds huts. Joyce and Alan provided strong evidence of their personal financial investment and demonstrated a clear plan for long-term growth. Their detailed financial forecast, based on VisitScotland occupancy rates, positioned the business for success. They have in fact surpassed these estimates with up to 100% occupancy of The Hive and the Shepherds huts being booked from the launch dates. The £48,000 loan, repaid over five years at 12% interest, will enable them to move forward with their expansion.

Key Success Factors of the Loan Application

• Experienced Operators: Joyce and Alan have prior experience running small businesses. Alan works as a self-employed driving instructor, while Joyce manages the finances for both businesses.
• Well-Prepared Business Plan: Joyce’s business plan and financial forecasts were well-informed, drawing on her bookkeeping experience and based on realistic assumptions using occupancy data.
• Strong Personal Contribution: The Jamiesons invested their personal savings, showcasing their dedication to the business’s growth.
• Proven Market Demand: The Hive’s test trading achieved a 67% occupancy rate without any advertising, indicating solid demand for their rural accommodation offering.
• Community Impact and Future Outlook: Bee Happy Breaks Scotland Ltd offers a unique accommodation experience in Perthshire’s rural landscape, attracting both local and international visitors. By expanding their offerings, the Jamiesons will contribute to local tourism and economic growth.

Although both Joyce and Alan continue with their current employment, the business is their long-term retirement plan. Alan plans to gradually reduce his driving instruction hours as the business grows. Their ultimate goal is to operate all four self-catering units, offering high-quality accommodation while supporting the local hospitality sector.