NATIONAL FAMILY BUSINESS DAY

3rd Generation Entrepreneurs @ Ballymena Business Centre
Ann Strain grew up in a rural family business in the village of Ahoghill outside Ballymena.  Being inspired at a young age by her father’s business Jimmy Moore’s Mobile Shop and her mother’s talented baking, Ann couldn’t wait to get home from school to help in the family business.  The desire to start her own business was always with Ann and in 1980 having raised her family Ann established Wuthering Heights Home Bakery.  Located today at Ballymena Business Centre, Wuthering Heights Home Bakery has gone from strength to strength.  With the leadership of Ann’s son Andrew Strain and supported by Ann’s daughter Diane Strain the business has trebled threefold with a total product range of 67 own label brands and a distribution base reaching from Londonderry to Newtownabbey and from the Causeway coast inland to Ballymena.  Ann diversified the business in 2009 and opened The Cosy Cuppa, a café where businesses and visitors to Ballymena Business Centre can sample many of the sweet delights over a friendly chat.  Today, through the commitment of the Strain family both businesses provide employment for 10 individuals from the local Ballymena area.
“Starting and running a business requires commitment and dedication.  Growing up I was inspired by my parent’s work ethic and I have passed my knowledge and skills onto my family.  If you are passionate about a business idea and can give 100% towards developing your idea I would encourage getting in touch with Ballymena Business Centre where you will be supported through each step of your business journey”
Ann Strain Wuthering Heights Home Bakery &  Cosy Cuppa Café

Business Rental Space Available
Town Centre Office £200 per month including Wifi, heat, light, power and phone!
UNIT 3   = £310 per month [710 sq ft]
UNIT 24 = £315 per month [700 sq ft]
​UNIT 25a = £315 per month [700 sq ft]
UNIT 33 = £306 per month [700 sq ft]
UNIT 48 = £468 per month [900 sq ft]
UNIT 50 = £306 per month [700 sq ft]
Incentives available on application for those starting a new business or locating in business premises for first time.

Creating New Opportunities in Ballymena Town Centre

Opportunities are now available for up to 20 Craft Makers from the Mid and East Antrim Borough Council area.  Currently open for applications.
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Read More Inspiring Stories From Local Entrepreneurs
Ballymena Business Centre as a Registered Northern Ireland Charity committed to helping individuals to start and grow their business.  With a focus on enterprise Ballymena Business Centre offers advice, guidance, training, workspace and networking opportunities.  ​Northern Ireland Charity Number 101472.