There is nothing more satisfying than owning a shop of your own. Whether it's a designer clothing store, an exciting florist, or something for practically everything, this book will guide you through all you need to know about opening your own retail business. It is aimed at anyone who has a dream or a practical idea. It includes case histories of hands-on shop owners, their advice and top tips. You will be able to browse through such topics as: - Choosing the best location - Finding finance in a dwindling market - Developing a business plan - Exploring the costs of setting up - Selecting the products you want to carry - Decoration, displays and shelving - Meeting the challenges of a new business - Getting your business noticed in an internet age - Turning your passion into a profitable business

Fully revised new edition of the only comprehensive guide to Scotland's Western Isles, which include Skye, Lewis, Harris, Uist, Iona, Jura, Islay and Arran. These enchanting islands reward the visitor with a rich variety of terrain and wildlife from the stark beauty of the Cuillin mountains of Skye to the raging seas off the Butt of Lewis or the palm trees of Arran. Skye & The Western Isles gives information on how to get the best out of a trip to the islands with descriptions of the best walks and climbs, castles and blackhouses, the history and culture, the liveliest music and folk festivals and ceilidhs and the finest food and drink, as well as full advice on how to get there by boat or air. It explains how you can locate the cave where Robert the Bruce watched his spider, discover if you are related to a Hebridean family, or take a flight to Barra that lands on the beach. The Western Isles are a haven for nature lovers: you can spot otters, seals, whales, dolphins, porpoises and basking sharks; discover Lapland marsh orchids, Norwegian sandwort, sundew, bog asphodel, and purple saxifrage; or find a bird reserve on North Uist renowned for rare corncrakes. Those of an active disposition can fish for trout and giant skate or climb a Munro on Mull where your compass needle points south, while those with more indulgent interests can tour seven different whisky distilleries on Islay or sample heather ale on Skye brewed from an old Pictish recipe.