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BAY ICES
John Harkins (Jnr), Owner
11 Leven Road , Wemyss Bay
Telephone: 01475 520 693, 07980 649 823
E-Mail: mail@harkie693.fsnet.co.uk
It was his love of that cold, sweet treat since a youngster, which gave John Harkins the drive to set up his ice cream van business, Bay Ices, while just a teenager. As other boys his age were out enjoying themselves, John was busy establishing his business, trying out new flavours on loyal customers throughout Inverclyde.
The enterprising spirit that is behind his success today was ignited at an early age. With his sights set on running his own business, John was determined to follow in the footsteps of his parents, who once ran ice cream vans locally. From the age of just 14, he would produce and sell his own batches of candyfloss and popcorn to make and save some money for his future venture.
Since buying his first van, John has never looked back. Bay Ices has developed beyond the daily deliveries that continue around the households of Inverclyde and North Ayrshire. The business also provides outside catering for a wide variety of events and John is busy securing new contracts around Scotland.
"It is quite a unique package on offer, as we recreate an ice cream parlour complete with tables, chairs and sun umbrellas, coupled with an extended product range including classic sundaes," said John.
"We are delighted to work closely with Inverclyde Council servicing its many events and North Lanarkshire Council has just taken us on. We also work with many major bodies such as the Scottish Show Jumping Association, Blair Drummond Safari Park and Clydeport Operations and are now busy preparing for the Ardrossan Highland Games."
Although the need to operate his services in a safe and responsible manner may be the cornerstone of John's work ethic, as vehicle maintenance plus health and safety must meet the highest standards. It is his cheerful, helpful demeanour that makes customers of Bay Ices come back for more.
Still only 22, John's determination, hard work and firm belief in offering a service that is second to none, have reaped their rewards. As a member of the Ice Cream Alliance, a trade body for the industry, Bay Ices was voted Mobiler of the Year 2005, beating off strong opposition from all over the UK.
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