Launched in April 2018, Boozy Events is a bespoke drinks firm, specialising in cocktail making classes and pop-up cocktail bars.  

Working closely with Business Gateway, founder Cameron Esson attended a variety of webinars and masterclasses during lockdown, which increased his confidence as he pivoted his business to deliver virtual cocktail experiences, providing customers with bespoke cocktail kits to use in their own homes. This has resulted in the team delivering over 1,600 virtual experiences to customers across more than 15 countries including Germany, Spain, Greece, India, and the United States. 

Before the coronavirus lockdown in Scotland, Mr Esson and his business partner, Gregor Sey, also received one-to-one support from their dedicated business adviser, as well as advice on business plans, company regulations, funding, and marketing.

Boozy Events is part of Business Gateway’s Growth Pipeline programme, enabling the team to access specialist support focused on strategy and sales. 

Cameron Esson said: “The past four months have been very challenging for the events industry across the board. However, thanks to the skills and confidence I gained working with Business Gateway, we were able to identify opportunities for survival and growth through the provision of virtual drinks experiences to a wide range of consumers as well as organisations including American Express, Accenture and Premier Oil.” 

During lockdown, Boozy Events organised and delivered cocktail kits to virtual fundraising events for both CHAS and Charlie House, helping to raise thousands of pounds for both local charities.  

Gordon Mackay, growth business adviser at Business Gateway, added: “COVID-19 has presented an unparalleled challenge to events and entertainment businesses like Cameron’s. However, his ambition and effective leadership has ensured that Boozy Events was able to adapt quickly and respond to changing customer demands.  

“It can be hard to have the confidence to make major changes to how your business operates, but these last few weeks have demonstrated how vital it is if firms are going to survive the effects of the pandemic. At Business Gateway, we recognise this and are available to provide specialist and impartial advice across the country as businesses work through this difficult trading period.”