Meet The Smithy Collective

A collective of local enterprises is showcasing the positive power of collaboration at The Smithy on Dumfries High Street.

The Smithy Collective features traders selling unique collectables, crafts and highly-sought sporting memorabilia - all under one roof in their community-owned home.

They have recently had a slight change in line-up, with David Macadam Sproat, of Dumfries Diecast Fairs, coordinating operations there.

He said: “It’s really exciting to bring everyone together like this.

“The feedback we have had for all that we offer is fantastic. Some people say that this is one of their favourite shops to visit in Dumfries, just for the variety of things that we have.”

The other current members of the Collective are Memorabilia Moments, Sparkle & Beaded Whimsical Wonders, Craft Space UK and Arami Design By MM, with others to follow soon.

The Smithy, at 113-115 High Street, is one of six buildings owned by the community through Midsteeple Quarter.

Emma McDowall, Midsteeple Quarter’s Enterprise Manager, said: “I'm pleased to see David taking on the shop and developing his vision for the space. I’m excited to see how the collective evolves over time."

"Our community-owned spaces allow us to work closely with local small businesses, giving them the opportunity to test new ideas and establish themselves on the High Street. In turn, this brings something fresh and unique to the town centre for local people and visitors."

To find out more about the opportunities for your business or organisation in Midsteeple Quarter’s buildings, email enterprise@midsteeplequarter.org.

Batter & Patter, which was previously in The Smithy, is now working on an order-only basis and at local markets, including the Saturday market in Dumfries. It’s been a pleasure having them as part of Midsteeple Quarter. You can contact them via their Facebook page here.