The initiative is backed by a £207,500 grant from Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), will create four more jobs and help retain many others on the island.

JML already employs 11 people and provides logistics services to many local businesses including dairy and timber. One of the company’s main clients is Bute Islands Foods (BIF), the largest private sector employer on the island with a workforce of around 120.

BIF has been growing continuously in recent years to meet market demand for its range of vegan cheese products and its warehousing and logistics needs have increased in line with this growth.

JML’s new warehouse will enable the company to continue servicing the needs of BIF and thereby help retain the operations of both companies on Bute.

Morag Goodfellow, HIE area manager for Argyll and the Islands, said: “Food and drink is a key growth sector in our area and one that provides valuable rural employment. John Mackirdy Limited forms part of the sector’s supply chain and it’s great to see the business expand on Bute and create more local jobs.

“This project is clearly crucial in helping both JML and its clients to grow and retain their operations on Bute, where economic activity is much needed. I’m very pleased we’ve been able to provide support and look forward to continuing to work with the company as the new warehouse takes shape.”

Jack McKirdy of JML said: “We are pleased to be investing in this new warehouse for Bute Island Foods, whose continued growth has been a real success story for Bute. This development will give them the space and infrastructure they need to expand, while helping to safeguard jobs and sustain economic activity on the island.

“With the backing of Highlands and Islands Enterprise, we see this as an important investment not only for our business and Bute Island Foods but in the long‑term prosperity of the whole community.”