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By Promote ShetlandJune 2nd 2025

Shetland’s enterprising community reflects the varied businesses in the isles, from major industries including fishing, aquaculture, and clean energy, through to small enterprises and craft industries.
This dynamic mix means there are many opportunities to invest, and businesses often become available for sale. Here we highlight some of the potential investment opportunities, ranging from media and publishing to home interiors.

Fjara Café Bar Ltd, Lerwick

One of Shetland’s favourite eateries is being marketed as the owner of the popular spot on the edge of Lerwick seeks to retire from the industry.

As Shetland is known for its excellent local produce, Fjara Café will be of interest to anyone looking to operate in the hospitality sector. Situated on the waterfront and with customer parking onsite.

Fjara opened in 2014, and has proved popular with visitors and locals enjoying the varied menu and drinks, along with the spectacular views and the chance to spot marine wildlife. The business and its assets is being marketed with Fjara said to have a strong customer base.

Fjara Café Bar Ltd, Lerwick
Enjoying breakfast with a sea view in Fjara. Jenny Eaves

The Shetland Times Ltd.

The Shetland Times newspaper has been part of the fabric of life in the islands, since 1872. The independent title has remained family-owned and is marketed as the current owners are looking to retire.

Of course, The Shetland Times Ltd. is more than just a newspaper and is better described as a media, publishing, and commercial printing company. The weekly newspaper is also available digitally, the title also operates a news website, and the wider business previously offered commercial, digital, large format and lithographic printing from its hub in Gremista, on the northern edge of Lerwick.

The business also incorporates a bookshop on Commercial Street in Lerwick Town Centre, selling local interest titles published by The Shetland Times Ltd, alongside a wide selection of popular books published nationally.

Maryfield House Hotel, Bressay

This seven-bedroom hotel with bar and restaurant is located in the island of Bressay, a short ferry ride across the harbour from Shetland’s capital town, Lerwick.

The island itself is home to a thriving community with beautiful locations to explore, including access to the nature reserve on the neighbouring island of Noss.

The hotel is operational and includes a games room, commercial kitchen and rooms for development, with the property described as a great opportunity for shrewd investors or owner-occupiers.

Maryfield House Hotel, Bressay
The island of Bressay, where the Maryfield House Hotel is located. David Gifford

Home Furnishings, Lerwick

Established in 1950, Home Furnishings in Lerwick is one of the longest-established retail businesses in Shetland, described as the ‘market leader on the island’.

The retail outlet is set on the edge of Lerwick, near the Hay's Dock cultural hub. It stands over two storeys, and alongside the building is private off-street parking for up to 24 cars. As well as the store on the town’s Commercial Road, the business has developed a digital market, delivering parcels across Shetland.

Brae Hotel, Brae

The Brae Hotel is one of the largest in Shetland, with 35 en-suite bedrooms in the village of Brae in Shetland’s North Mainland.

As well as the large number of rooms, the hotel includes a lounge, restaurant and public bar. The building is in an elevated position giving views across the voe and the picturesque landscape beyond.

The hotel is being sold due to retirement, and the sellers report the business has seen year-on-year growth.

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