Scottish Government minister celebrates business in Paisley

Business and Fair Work Minister hears about work of Paisley First Business Improvement District as he visits newly-launched town centre eatery The influential impact of Business Improvement Districts was highlighted as a Scottish Government minister visited a new enterprise in Paisley. Tom Arthur, Minister for Business and Fair Work, was briefed on the latest work being led by Paisley First BID to boost business in Scotland’s reigning Town of the Year. He heard about the ongoing efforts by the BID to attract more people and businesses to the town as he visited a newly-launched venture. Eggs Nest Paisley, a breakfast and brunch venue, opened on Bridge Street just last Wednesday (May 27). It is the latest enterprise unveiled by businessman Indrit Mataj, whose other business interests include the popular restaurant Trattoria Genova in Paisley. Mr Arthur chatted with Mr Mataj about his investment in the town centre business, as well as with Elaine Templeton, Chair of Paisley First. He was also updated about the wider work of Scotland’s Improvement Districts by Kimberley Guthrie, Chief Officer of its parent organisation Scotland’s Towns Partnership. The Minister said: “Business Improvement Districts play a vital role in supporting investment in communities to address local priorities, helping our local places and economies to thrive. “It is great to be back in Paisley to see for myself the impact Paisley First has had in supporting local businesses and the revival of Paisley town centre.” Paisley First’s current initiatives to attract people to support town centre businesses include Paisley CarFest, which takes place on June 20, and the summer Brick Buddies Trail, which will run from June 27 until August 16. The BID will also be encouraging people to get behind local businesses by supporting Scotland Loves Local Week, from June 13 to 20. Elaine Templeton said: “Running a small business is particularly challenging in the current economic climate, which makes it especially encouraging to see established business owners continuing to invest in Paisley town centre. “Eggs Nest is a fantastic addition to the town and further strengthens Paisley’s growing reputation as a destination for food lovers. “We’re also seeing an increasing number of first-time entrepreneurs choosing Paisley as the place to launch their businesses. We’re hopeful this is a clear sign that confidence in the town centre continues to grow.” The opening of Eggs Nest - described as "a European-inspired space" designed to feel "modern, fresh, and built for brunch done in style" - has been widely welcomed. Indrit Mataj said: "Paisley is the heart of Renfrewshire, and the support we've received from the local community through Trattoria Genova has been incredible. “When we decided to create a new dining experience centred around breakfast and brunch, there was only one place we wanted to bring it to life – Paisley. “The people here have always supported us, and this is our way of giving something back to the town that has given us so much." Paisley was crowned as Scotland’s Town of the Year in the 2025 Scotland Loves Local Awards amid unprecedented investment in the town centre, which has already seen Renfrewshire Council’s rejuvenate Paisley Town Hall and the transformation of Paisley Museum, which is being fitted out ahead of its reopening. And the BID has been praised for its positive influence and impact in supporting and encouraging established and new businesses in the town. Kimberley Guthrie said: “Paisley First does a fantastic job in flying the flag for the town. Its success was an important part in Paisley being named as Scotland’s Town of the Year. “Across the country Scotland’s Improvement Districts are significant players in making their places better, helping to attract people and investment which provides critical support for local businesses, as well as driving community wealth. “It’s great that Mr Arthur has had the chance to hear about Paisley First’s work, as well as that of the wider BID network and its positive impact on local and national economies.” Entries are open for the 2026 Scotland Loves Local Awards, organised by Scotland’s Towns Partnership. Nominations are being sought for categories including Town of the Year, as well as High Street Heroes. To find out more, go to www.lovelocal.scot/awards.