This Scotland’s Towns #ScotlandLovesLocalWeek 2026, I want to take a moment to celebrate and thank all the tremendous people and businesses that make Motherwell and Wishaw so special.

The week shines a spotlight on the dedication, determination and innovation of our local businesses. From Hugh Black & Sons Butchers success at the Scottish Craft Butchers Beef Link Sausage Championships 2026, to Aroma Coffee & Kitchen, who will next year be celebrating their 20th year in business, to the success of Bells florist, a family-run institution of Wishaw since 1956, and the Railway Tavern, whose incredible achievement saw them win Best Pub in the West at the Entertainment and Hospitality Awards 2026, the list goes on and on. 

When we support local, we all benefit. Strong local economies create vibrant places, generate opportunities, encourage community pride and help ensure that Scotland’s towns and neighbourhoods remain great places to live, work and visit.