Tayside and Fife Business Buzz: Pub Takeovers, Closures, and New Openings

A wave of changes is sweeping across Tayside and Fife’s business landscape, with a mix of exciting new ventures, closures, and ownership shifts impacting local high streets. From Dundee’s bustling city centre to the charming villages of Perthshire, here’s a roundup of the latest developments. Dundee’s Dynamic Dining Scene
Dundee’s culinary scene is undergoing a transformation. The Tailend restaurant and takeaway on Nethergate, previously run by Darren and Jess Spink, recently closed its doors to make way for a new chapter. The popular spot is now under the ownership of Mother Hubbard’s, a fish and chip shop chain known for its presence in Glasgow and Edinburgh. The move marks Mother Hubbard’s expansion into Dundee, promising a fresh take on the location.
Meanwhile, Stobswell residents are celebrating the arrival of Fireaway Pizza on Albert Street. The pizzeria launched in the former TSB bank building, offering a fiery start with a generous giveaway of 500 free Margherita pizzas during its opening week. This addition adds to the diverse range of food options available in the city.
In the city centre, young entrepreneur Thomas Justice, 26, has taken the reins of the historic Caw’s Bar on Panmure Street. Following renovations, the 19th-century pub is now serving patrons once again under Justice’s management, breathing new life into this well-loved establishment. Perthshire’s Shifting Landscape
In the heart of Perthshire, the Joinery Coffee Shop in Meigle is seeking a new owner. After seven years of serving the community, owner Ann Durston is looking to sell the business and enjoy retirement. The popular cafe, known for its warm atmosphere and delicious treats, presents a unique opportunity for an aspiring entrepreneur to take over a well-established business in a picturesque location.
Perth city centre has bid farewell to Johnnie Orange Cafe and Living Store on St Paul’s Square. Owners Johnnie Yuen and Sun Sun Lau have announced a temporary closure of at least six months, thanking their loyal customers for their support over the years. Retail and Development News
Arbroath is set to welcome a host of new retailers with the completion of a £16 million retail park development off Dundee Road. The lineup includes household names such as Home Bargains, Aldi, MKM Builders Merchant, Costa, and Greggs, signifying a significant boost to the town’s retail sector.
St Andrews is also gearing up for a major development project. A £16 million proposal submitted to Fife Council by West Coast Estates outlines plans for new shops and restaurants on the outskirts of town. This investment aims to enhance the town’s offerings and attract both locals and visitors.
In Glenrothes, a proposal by Sainsbury’s to open a new supermarket in the former Homebase store has met with resistance from rival supermarket chain Morrisons. Citing concerns about the impact on Glenrothes town centre, Morrisons has formally objected to the plan, highlighting the potential for weakening the existing retail hub. Dundee’s Retail Scene
Dundee’s Overgate Shopping Centre is experiencing its own share of changes. Following Regatta’s departure, the unit is set to welcome luxury chocolate retailer Hotel Chocolat. The company’s active recruitment efforts suggest an imminent opening, adding a touch of sweetness to the shopping centre.
Clarks, the iconic British shoe brand, has also made a return to the Overgate, opening a new store nearly two years after closing its Murraygate location. This new shop replaces a former Burger King unit, demonstrating the ongoing evolution of retail spaces within the centre.
Ninewells Hospital will soon host an M&S Foodhall, taking over the space currently occupied by WH Smith. WH Smith, in turn, will relocate to a new unit within the hospital, allowing for the arrival of the popular food retailer, expected this summer. Hospitality Developments
Crieff Hydro is investing heavily in its facilities, with over £5 million dedicated to refurbishing its dining and drinking areas. This significant investment, the largest in the family-run business’s history, signals a focus on attracting local clientele and enhancing the overall guest experience.
In Stirling, The Golden Lion hotel is under new ownership. Gary Atkinson, an experienced hotelier, has acquired the establishment from Flagship Hotels, aiming to elevate standards and enhance the hotel’s reputation. These developments demonstrate the dynamic nature of the hospitality sector in the region.
These diverse business ventures illustrate the changing landscape of Perth and Kinross and surrounding areas, with a mix of new opportunities, challenges, and a spirit of innovation driving the local economy forward.

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