Dains facilitates liquidation of Fife bagpipe maker RT Shepherd & Son

Steven Wright
Fife-based bagpipe manufacturer RT Shepherd & Son has entered liquidation due to financial difficulties, with its assets being acquired by another local business, Broadleys Bagpipes & Reeds. Founded in the 1970s by the renowned Robert “Bob” Shepherd, the Cardenden-headquartered company was globally recognised for its high-quality chanters and reeds.
Glasgow-based partner and head of business recovery at Dains (Scotland) Steven Wright acted as interim liquidator. The liquidators stated that cash flow problems ultimately led the directors to wind up the business, which employed eight people. Mr Wright cited “various factors” contributing to the company’s challenges over recent years, despite its strong reputation in the piping community, The Courier reports.
The assets of RT Shepherd & Son have been purchased by Kirkcaldy-based Broadleys Bagpipes & Reeds, owned by Ross Watson, a former employee of Shepherd’s. Mr Watson’s understanding of the business positions him well to continue the RT Shepherd brand. All future enquiries regarding products previously associated with RT Shepherd & Son should be directed to Ross Watson.
RT Shepherd & Son had a significant presence in bagpiping competitions, notably sponsoring the young person’s trophy in the Vale of Atholl Pipe Band junior contest.