The scale of the ambitions set out by the head of a fast-growing Scottish restaurants and bars group - as he announced he was taking control of the business in a “family management buyout” - was striking.

That said, given the growth achieved by the group in recent years as it has bounced back from the pandemic and opened new outlets, the goals look challenging but not unrealistic.

Ayrshire-based Buzzworks Holdings, of which Kenny Blair is taking “control” with his siblings stepping back to advisory roles in the “family MBO” deal and private equity group Alchemy Partners coming in, is a business that has been around for a long time. It was founded in 1978.

Recent years have seen rapid expansion by Buzzworks outwith its Ayrshire heartland, and the business now operates 22 venues across west, central and east Scotland.

The group now employs more than 800 people.

Buzzworks in January described as “a significant milestone” its securing of eighth place in the UK Fast Growth Index 2024, which it noted at the time “celebrates the nation’s top 50 fastest-growing businesses”.

It said: “Selected from over 5.6 million businesses nationwide, Buzzworks’ top 10 placement highlights its rapid expansion and sustained success within the competitive hospitality industry.”

There is no doubt the business is operating in a highly competitive sector. The sector in general faces myriad challenges, notably including rising costs and pressure on household budgets.

Mr Blair declared in January: "We are very happy to be ranked eighth on the UK Fast Growth Index, which is thanks to the hard work of our exceptional team.”

Hearteningly, he also flagged Buzzworks’ continuing efforts to “do everything we can to be a great employer and an asset to the communities we........

© Herald Scotland