TASTE OF TALENT: Meet the Culinary Creatives at STEP

At STEP, we’re proud to be home to a vibrant community of food entrepreneurs who are cooking up success one bite at a time. From artisan bakers and gourmet chocolatiers to small-batch preserves and ready-made meals, our tenants are putting Stirling on the map as a hub of local flavour and foodie flair.

In this feature, we’re shining a spotlight on the passionate people behind the produce. These are the makers and innovators turning their culinary dreams into thriving businesses – right here on our doorstep.

Get to know the stories, inspirations, and signature offerings that make each of these food-based tenants truly one of a kind.

Blueberry Hill Meals

Blueberry Hill Meals is proof that when one dream ends, another can begin—often even more deliciously than expected. A family-run business located in a pair of well-equipped units at Stirling Enterprise Park, the company was founded in 2012 by Emily Ogilvy.

Before establishing Blueberry Hill, Emily was on course to become a professional athlete. Having represented Scotland in golf and earned a prestigious sports scholarship in the US, she was preparing to go pro—until a serious shoulder injury ended her sporting career just before the finish line.

Undeterred and inspired by her food-loving family, Emily channelled her energy into another passion: cooking. What began with home-cooked meals made in her mum’s kitchen for a few locals quickly gained momentum. As word spread about the tasty, wholesome meals she was creating, demand grew—and in 2014, Emily moved into Stirling Enterprise Park. Her sister Victoria joined in 2019 and their parents—business-savvy Karen and Alistair—have been cheerleading and supporting the journey from day one.

Now a thriving business, Blueberry Hill Meals produces a wide range of frozen ready meals, all handmade using locally sourced, high-quality ingredients. From comforting classics like cottage pie and lasagne to lighter soups, curries and irresistible desserts, there’s something for every taste. Meals are available in standard and small sizes, with vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options.

Whether delivered direct to your door or collected from the kitchen, every dish offers the ease of convenience without compromising on flavour or quality. The team prides itself on using recyclable packaging and minimising waste. Rooted in Stirling but feeding customers across the country, Blueberry Hill remains committed to small-batch cooking with a personal touch. Their loyal following continues to grow, thanks to a menu that balances hearty nourishment with home-cooked goodness. It’s food that feels like family—because at Blueberry Hill it truly is.

The business has also grown its presence in the local community, regularly taking part in information events for sheltered housing complexes and for a range of charities and organisations who work with elderly and/or disabled people. They’ve built strong relationships with local suppliers, ensuring that ingredients are not only fresh but also support the wider rural economy. For Emily and the team, it’s about more than just meals—it’s about creating something meaningful, sustainable, and made with love.

It’s stories like this that the team at STEP live for. Supporting a business from its earliest days—with guidance from our Business Gateway advisers—right through to helping secure premises, hire staff and scale sustainably, is exactly what we’re here for. Blueberry Hill Meals embodies the values we’re rooted in: ambition, resilience and a deep connection to community. And we couldn’t be prouder to have played a part in their journey!

Explore the full menu and order online at www.blueberryhillmeals.co.uk

Corner30

At Corner30, the goal is simple—to be the place where you can grab a bite to eat, enjoy a warm cuppa and feel right at home. Whether you’re crunching numbers, laying bricks, running a business, or just popping by, we’re here to keep you fuelled with tasty, quality food and a welcoming smile.

Established by STEP, Corner30 is a community-driven takeaway that showcases the very best of what local makers have to offer. More than just a café or a shop, it’s a hub—a place where flavours, friendships and entrepreneurship come together.

From sweet treats to savoury bites, the majority of our products are sourced right here in Scotland—many from within Stirling itself.

We proudly stock goods from tenant and small local businesses that manufacture on site and locally and employ local people, helping to ensure that your purchase supports not just the product, but the people behind it.

Everything we do is rooted in STEP’s business wealth building ethos. That means every penny made is reinvested back into the local economy—supporting the development of new business ideas, job creation and long-term community resilience. It’s a circular model where success for one becomes success for all.

So come in, have a bite and join us in our mission to make your day a little brighter and your belly a little fuller.

Pop in and explore what’s on the corner at Stirling Enterprise Park, Unit 30. You never know what new favourite you might discover.

Fondlyiced

Based in a bright and busy unit at Stirling Enterprise Park, Fondlyiced is the kind of business that stops you in your tracks—whether it’s the scent of freshly baked empire biscuits drifting through the air or the intricate artistry of their custom celebration cakes.

What began as a one-woman venture has grown into an award-winning bakery, lovingly built by founder Rebecca McEwan and her small but mighty team.

Rebecca launched Fondlyiced in 2010 after creating a cake for her cousin’s daughter that captured the attention of family, friends, and—before long—a queue of customers. With a professional background as a trained chef and a natural flair for colour and composition, Rebecca quickly found her passion for baking was more than just a creative outlet. It was a calling.

Fondlyiced moved into premises at Stirling Enterprise Park in 2020, supported by STEP’s flexible approach to business growth. From the outset, Rebecca put quality and individuality at the centre of her work, building a brand that stood out—not just for its cakes, but for its customer care, consistency and commitment to community.

As the business grew, Fondlyiced needed more space—not just for baking, but to welcome customers directly. Thanks to STEP’s unique model that allows businesses to upsize, downsize or move units without added costs (based on availability), Fondlyiced was able to relocate within the park and expand into a larger space.

This enabled Rebecca to open the Cakeaway—a click n collect walk-in offering that lets customers pick up fresh bakes straight from the source. It’s now a popular weekly highlight for fans near and far.

Fast forward to today and Fondlyiced produces thousands of bakes every week. Their signature empire biscuits (2,000 of them made fresh weekly!) have earned cult status locally. Celebration cakes remain a cornerstone of the business, from whimsical children’s designs to elegant wedding showstoppers. But the range has expanded significantly, with indulgent traybakes, nostalgic treat boxes and wholesale lines for twelve cafés and growing.

The business is now a finely tuned machine, with a small core team who know the rhythm of the bakery like clockwork. From mixing bowls to piping bags, each step is carried out with precision and pride.

Many of the staff started as part-time helpers and have grown into key roles, trained in-house by Rebecca to match her exacting standards. Team lunches around the prep table and early morning laughs over coffee are part of the magic that makes Fondlyiced feel like more than just a workplace—it’s a family.

The shift into wholesale and tailored corporate gifting marked a turning point. During lockdown, demand for postal treat boxes surged and Rebecca quickly adapted, developing packaging that travels well and designs that still feel personal.

Today, corporate clients across central Scotland place regular orders for branded bakes, bespoke boxes, and personalised event packages.

“It’s a full-on business,” Rebecca says. “I average about 70 hours a week—and that’s on a good one. But I still do all the Saturday café deliveries myself. That connection with customers is what keeps me going.”

What makes Fondlyiced stand out is the perfect marriage of artistry and grit. Every order, whether it’s a last-minute birthday box or a five-tier wedding cake, is handled with care. Rebecca has invested in equipment, training and even trademarked the Fondlyiced name to protect the creative identity she’s worked so hard to build.

In 2024, that dedication paid off with the bakery being named Artisan Bakery of the Year, a moment that cemented its place not only in Stirling’s food scene, but among Scotland’s best.

As the business continues to grow, Rebecca remains focused on staying grounded. She regularly mentors aspiring bakers and entrepreneurs, always happy to share what she’s learned along the way. “I didn’t have a business plan when I started—just a love of baking and a willingness to put in the work,” she says. “But I’ve been lucky to have amazing support—from customers, my team, and places like STEP that really get what small businesses need. What makes STEP stand out is the hands-on, human approach. Not only do I have a caring and helpful landlord, I also have a dedicated business adviser I can call for anything—from help with business planning to just having a sounding board when I need to talk something through,” Rebecca explains.

For Rebecca and the Fondlyiced team, the mission is simple: create joy through food. Whether you’re marking a milestone or just grabbing a sweet pick-me-up, every bite is a reminder that the best things in life are made from scratch—with passion, purpose, and probably a bit of glitter.

Follow Fondlyiced on Instagram or Facebook or visit www.fondlyiced.com to browse the gallery, place an order or see what’s baking this week.

Grace Chocolates

At first glance, Grace Chocolates is a luxury chocolatier creating beautifully packaged, handcrafted treats. But behind each truffle and bar is something much more powerful—a story of second chances and transformation.

Founded in 2017, when they located into an adapted unit at Stirling Enterprise Park, Grace Chocolates supports women who have touched the criminal justice system and are rebuilding their lives. Through training, work experience, and meaningful employment in chocolate production, the women gain confidence, skills, and a path toward a brighter future.

Every chocolate is handmade in small batches using high-quality ingredients and ethically sourced cocoa. The result? A delicious range of treats made with heart—from rich ganaches and filled chocolates to seasonal selections in elegant gift boxes.

Founded by Social Enterprise charity Positive Changes, Grace Chocolates proves that business can be a force for good. Over the years the company has grown from a local initiative into an award-winning brand recognised across Scotland. Their products are stocked in independent retailers and showcased at events throughout the country, with many corporate partners now choosing Grace Chocolates for ethical gifting.

The enterprise also contributes to Stirling’s wider business community, working alongside other social enterprises, training organisations, and local supporters who believe in inclusive economic growth. Each purchase helps fund training and development that gives women a genuine chance at change. It’s a reminder that behind every beautifully wrapped chocolate is a story of hope, dignity, and progress.

Discover the full range and the story behind the chocolates at www.gracechocolates.co.uk.

Irresistible Bakes

At Irresistible Bakes, every cake tells a story—and that story begins with Louise, a professionally trained chef turned cake designer, whose passion for baking has come full circle.

Nestled in the heart of Stirling Enterprise Park Irresistible Bakes is where stunning design meets exceptional flavour, with celebration and wedding cakes that not only look the part but taste truly unforgettable.


After beginning her culinary career in professional kitchens, Louise stepped away from the heat of the pass to focus on family life. But the love of food never left her. In her mid-40s, standing at a personal and professional crossroads, she took the leap—returning to her roots and following a long-held dream. With encouragement from her husband, a community of cheerleaders and a healthy dose of bravery, Irresistible Bakes was born.

Now back where she belongs—in the kitchen—Louise pours years of experience, skill and creativity into every bake. Her cakes are known for their exquisite appearance, considered flavour pairings, and inclusive approach to dietary needs. From vegan and dairy-free options to gluten-free layers that don’t compromise on taste or texture, her attention to detail ensures that everyone can have their cake and eat it too.

Whether it’s a decadent chocolate tier filled with passionfruit curd or a delicate sponge paired with silky buttercream and fresh berries, Louise is passionate about flavour profiles that excite the palate and textures that elevate the experience. Each creation is crafted from scratch using high-quality ingredients, with fillings and buttercreams made in-house to ensure every bite is as memorable as the occasion.

From elegant wedding showstoppers to joyful birthday bakes and personalised celebration cakes, Irresistible Bakes offers a luxurious, bespoke service tailored to every client. Louise works closely with each customer to design cakes that reflect not only the event, but the personalities at the centre of it. No two cakes are ever the same, and that’s exactly the point.

But it’s not just about sugar and sponge—it’s about connection. Louise has created a warm, welcoming experience for her clients, many of whom return year after year for milestone events. Her clients aren’t just customers; they become part of her story and she becomes part of theirs.

Louise’s mission is simple: to create cakes that are irresistible in every sense. As she embraces this exciting new chapter, she invites her customers to share in the journey—learning, celebrating, and enjoying every slice along the way.

With a growing social media following, glowing testimonials, and a calendar that’s booking up months in advance, Irresistible Bakes is a name to watch in Stirling’s vibrant food scene. Louise’s blend of culinary precision, artistic flair, and genuine heart sets her apart—one handcrafted cake at a time.

Follow Louise’s journey on Instagram at @irresistiblebakes2023 and visit her website www.irresistiblebakes.co.uk to indulge in her world of flavour, celebration and sweet success.

Milk & Honey

Some of the best ideas are born during unexpected pauses—and Milk & Honey Ice Cream is one of them. Created during furlough by Greek-American chef Steve, this small-batch ice cream company is a delicious blend of heritage, creativity and passion for quality.

Having spent his life immersed in the vibrant flavours of both Greece and the US Steve began experimenting with ice cream as a way to combine his culinary background with his love of indulgent, joyful food. What started as a personal passion quickly turned into something bigger—and tastier—than he imagined.

Joining forces with his long-time friend Andy, who brought with him a background in launching successful enterprises the pair saw the potential to scale their handcrafted creations and share them with a wider audience. Together they founded Milk & Honey with a clear and simple goal: to create and share high-quality, small-batch, handmade ice cream made with integrity and flair.

From creamy classics to bold, unexpected combinations, every flavour is developed with care—balancing tradition and innovation and always using quality ingredients. The result? Ice cream that’s smooth, rich and full of personality.

Milk & Honey may still be a young brand, but it’s quickly building a following among customers who value artisan food made with real passion and a personal touch. Whether scooped into a cone, served alongside dessert or tucked into a freezer for a midnight treat, each tub is packed with flavour and a little bit of soul.

Keep an eye out for seasonal specials and collaborations and don’t be surprised if you find your new favourite flavour hidden among their ever-evolving line-up.

Follow the journey or find out where to taste it next milkandhoneyicecream.co.uk

Perthshire Preserves: 15 Years of Flavour

When it comes to capturing the flavours of Scotland in a jar, few do it better—or more authentically—than Perthshire Preserves. Tucked inside STEP’s Stirling Enterprise Park for the past decade, this quietly brilliant business is preparing to mark its 15th anniversary in 2025—a milestone that reflects not only their staying power but the love and labour poured into every batch.

Run by husband-and-wife duo Kate Thronhill and Iain Mackenzie Perthshire Preserves is the very definition of small-batch excellence. Their range of award-winning jams, marmalades, and chutneys is now stocked in delis, farm shops, cafés and markets across Scotland and beyond. Yet, at its heart, the business remains deeply personal. Every jar tells a story—not just of fruit and spice, but of passion, resilience, and the joy of doing something the right way.

Founded in 2010, Perthshire Preserves began humbly, born from a shared love of seasonal ingredients and the satisfaction of making food from scratch. At the time, Kate and Iain were juggling careers and family life, but the seed was planted one winter evening when a batch of marmalade—meant as gifts—earned rave reviews from friends and neighbours. Encouraged, they started producing more, testing flavours, refining techniques and selling at small markets and local events.

The response was overwhelmingly positive. Customers appreciated the depth of flavour, the unusual combinations and the nostalgic, homemade feel. Soon what started as a passion project became a full-time business.

At the core of Perthshire Preserves is a simple belief: food should be real. That means no shortcuts, no artificial additives and no mass production. Everything is made in small batches in their custom-fitted commercial kitchen, where the scent of bubbling berries and gently simmering citrus is a daily delight.

Using traditional open-pan methods and locally sourced produce wherever possible, Kate and Iain handcraft every product with an attention to detail that’s rare in today’s convenience-first food industry.

The Orange and Amaretto Marmalade is a best-seller for a reason—bold, tangy, and balanced with a whisper of almond warmth. The Pear and Apple Chutney, with its rich spice and natural sweetness, is a cheeseboard essential and the Strawberry and Prosecco Jam is a true summer celebration, packed with fruit and fizz.

Their recipes are developed in-house and fine-tuned over time, always guided by taste, seasonality and an understanding of how people really use preserves—from elevating a slice of toast to transforming a roast dinner or brightening up a grazing board.

Though now stocked widely across Scotland and beyond, Perthshire Preserves has never lost its local heart. Many of their ingredients are sourced from nearby farms and growers, and their business model supports not only their own family but others in the regional food supply chain. They also create bespoke products for partners such as Wee Isle Dairy on Gigha—where their jams ripple through handmade ice creams—and supply exclusive preserves to Tobermory Distillery and Deanston, pairing beautifully with gins and whiskies.

Being based at STEP’s Stirling Enterprise Park has played a key role in their journey. “Having access to flexible, affordable space—and being surrounded by other growing businesses—has made a huge difference,” says Kate. “STEP has supported us not just with premises, but with advice and a business community that understands what it’s like to build something from scratch.”

The couple’s commitment to the local economy and their artisan ethos has drawn the attention of both stockists and customers looking for food with integrity. They now sell at over a dozen regular markets, supply curated hampers and collaborate with chefs and cafés seeking standout condiments to elevate their menus.

Perthshire Preserves isn’t trying to be a supermarket brand. They don’t aim for supermarket shelves or slick mass distribution. What they care about is craft and consistency. Every jar that leaves their kitchen is the result of careful sourcing, slow cooking and that final taste-test that says: “Yes, that’s the one.”

With their 15th anniversary approaching, Kate and Iain are reflecting on their journey and thinking ahead. Their story is a testament to what can be achieved when passion meets perseverance. It’s about choosing quality over quantity, putting people first, and proving that food made with care truly does taste better.

Whether you’re spreading it on sourdough, adding a tangy kick to a cheeseboard, or looking for a thoughtful foodie gift, Perthshire Preserves offers a taste of Scotland in every spoonful.

Discover the full range and the story behind the jars at www.perthshirepreserves.co.uk, at select farm shops, delis and food markets across Scotland.

Prime Street Food

Prime Street Food brings bold, flavour-packed dishes to private events, workplace lunches, and pop-ups across central Scotland. Known for their stacked burgers, loaded wraps, hand-cut fries, and house-made sauces, Prime Street Food has built a loyal following by delivering high-quality street food straight to the people who appreciate it most—at weddings, corporate events, and private functions.

A tenant at Stirling Enterprise Park since starting up in 2017, Prime Street Food has grown steadily from a passion project into a full-scale street food operation. While the unit is used exclusively for prep and storage, behind those doors the team is hard at work—slicing, searing, seasoning, and planning every menu with military precision. With a background in hospitality and events, they understand how to deliver crowd-pleasing food with speed, style, and consistency.

Prime Street Food isn’t a walk-up van or a fixed café—it’s a street food experience brought to you. Their custom-built set-ups are designed to slot seamlessly into all kinds of venues and vibes, whether it’s fuelling a workplace team on-site, adding fun and flavour to a local festival, or dishing out late-night bites at a laid-back wedding reception.

The ethos is simple: quality ingredients, cooked with care and served with character. Everything is made fresh—from scratch—using well-sourced produce and punchy flavour combinations that elevate every plate. Think double-stacked burgers with tangy pickles, loaded fries drenched in smoky chipotle mayo, or halloumi wraps with zingy slaw that turn a quick bite into something memorable.

But it’s not just the food—it’s the whole experience. The Prime Street Food team brings energy, personality, and a genuine love of what they do. They’re not just feeding guests—they’re setting the tone, building buzz, and creating a standout food moment people talk about long after the last bite.

So if you’re planning an event and want food that brings people together, Prime Street Food might just be your new favourite find. Find them @primestreetfood

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