Village c-store reopens after three-year hiatus caused by fire

A village store in Gargunnock, near Stirling, has reopened its doors after a three-year hiatus caused by a devastating fire.

Thanks to the remarkable efforts of the local community, a new community focused operator in Ashok Pothugunta and the support of Nisa, the much-needed store is back in business, providing a vital lifeline to the area’s residents.

The initiative to revive the shop, led by Gargunnock Community Shop Limited, saw 259 investors contribute a total of £65,415 through a community share offer.

The campaign exceeded expectations, demonstrating the strong commitment of residents to save their only local store.

Christine Phillips, Chair of Gargunnock Community Shop, expressed her gratitude: “The successful share offer and Ashok’s appointment are pivotal moments for Gargunnock. We are grateful for the community’s support and eager to see Ashok’s vision come to life. This is a significant step toward revitalising our village and providing essential services.”

Ashok Pothugunta, a highly experienced retailer with over 20 years in the convenience sector, has been appointed as the new tenant. Ashok also operates successful stores in Edinburgh, Falkirk, and England.

Speaking about his new venture, he said: “I am honoured to take on the store in Gargunnock and be part of such an inspiring community effort. My goal is to create a welcoming space that caters to local needs, offering a wide range of high-quality products and services.

"With Nisa’s support, I’m confident we can make this store a hub for the village.”

The store, supplied by Nisa, will feature Co-op own-brand products, ensuring high-quality goods at competitive prices. Additionally, the partnership provides access to reliable stock availability and products from local Scottish suppliers, promoting sustainability and supporting regional businesses.

Andrew Rutter, Head of Key Accounts at Nisa, commented: “We’re delighted to support Ashok and the Gargunnock community in bringing this vital store back to life.

"Nisa’s wide ranging offering, including the trusted Co-op own-brand range, ensures customers have access to quality and value. It’s fantastic to see how the community has come together to make this possible.”

The reopening in January was met with great enthusiasm from residents, who no longer face a 14-mile round trip for groceries. The store is set to become a cornerstone of the village once again, enhancing community spirit and offering convenience close to home.