Each week, we ask small businesses key questions.
This week we speak to Bryn Wayte, owner of Deeside Books and Gifts in Ballater
How and why did you start in business?
I started my working life as a land surveyor, which encouraged a degree of self-sufficiency and independence, and ended up working for the Greater London Council (GLC). Political upheaval meant the abolition of the GLC and many of the jobs within it, including mine.
My first wife and I decided to move to Scotland, where we bought and successfully ran a small hotel in Kincardine O’Neil until we separated. I did not want to be employed again and decided to start a new enterprise involving my great passion – books.
How did you get to where you are today?
Using my own collection as starting stock, my new wife and I opened a shop in Kincardine O’Neil.
We soon realised that a much better location would be Ballater, which was more of a tourist destination.
My wife Marilyn started selling cards and gifts, which helped to diversify the business.
Who helped you?
Joining Ballater Business Association was beneficial. Business Gateway courses have also been helpful, while the Federation of Small Businesses has been a strong safeguard.
What has been your biggest mistake?
Having to sell property at the bottom of the economic cycle.
What are your greatest achievements?
Surviving the succession of recent economic crises and the devastating floods in Ballater at the end of 2015.
If you were in government, what would you change?
Successive governments have encouraged retail developments in out-of-town business parks and allowed large online retailers to avoid paying fair taxes. Government should now be taking positive steps to diversify and support the high street by encouraging more growth through small businesses. Secondly, the ongoing scandal of the totally irrational business rates system needs to be addressed.
What do you still hope to achieve?
Being able to diversify and expand the business.
What do you do to relax?
Walking the dog, and socialising.
What are you reading, listening to or glued to on TV?
My main interests are military history, and early travel and exploration.
What do you waste your money on?
Marilyn would say I buy too many books.
How would your friends describe you?
Hopefully, that I’m good company.
What would your enemies say about you?
I’m not really worried about what anybody says.
What do you drive and dream of driving?
I have been a Subaru fan for many years and am quite happy with my Legacy Outback.