40 Argyll jobs gone as Highland Heathers goes into receivership

(Updated below, 22 August) Argyll business, Highland Heathers, wholesale supplier of heather plants from four bases in Argyll, has gone into receivership.

what had been a viable business saw its debts aggravated by a poor trading season and with what the Receiver described as greater overseas competition.

The professional judgment is that the business cannot be sold on and that, with outstanding orders filled, staff will go and the business close in a few weeks.

This situation raises the issue of trades descriptions. ‘Highland heather’ can hardly be so described if it is grown overseas. Scotch whisky has brand protection. It seems odd that Highland heather does not.

Update 22nd August: Response from Jamie McGrigor MSP

Jamie McGrigor, Highlands & Islands MSP, has expressed his sadness at the news that the well-known Argyll-based horticultural business, Highland Heathers, has gone bust with the loss of around 40 jobs in Argyll.

Speaking today he says: ‘I am extremely sad that this well-known and reputable company that has grown over the years from a small family business into a large scale operation supplying heathers across the whole of the UK has been forced into liquidation.

‘My thoughts are with the owners and all those who work for the company and who will now be made redundant. This loss of 43 jobs is a significant blow to the economy of Argyll & Bute and I hope that all agencies will do their utmost to support those who are losing their jobs to find new employment.’