New JG Ross opens in Turriff — locals tell us what it means for the High Street

Before sunrise on Turriff’s High Street, the lights were already on.

At 6am, north-east bakery giant JG Ross welcomed its first customers at its new site, serving takeaway only ahead of its coffee shop’s full opening tomorrow (January 29).

Its arrival marks more than a new business launch. JG Ross has landed in the heart of a town that cares deeply about its centre — one already rich in food and drink options.

Within a few minutes’ walk of the new bakery are Yamba Rose Bakery, Symposium, Murdoch Allan’s and Traffords Coffee House.

Around the corner on Main Street sit Gilly’s, McKenzie’s Bakery and Celebrations of Turriff — and that’s only counting businesses with a similar offering.

For a town of its size, it’s a notable concentration. Many locals say it’s also a sign of strength.

More choice — and more competition

Turriff local Kaitlyn Simpson, who runs Better Days Support — a private care service for adults with learning disabilities and the elderly — says the buzz is real.

“We’re all buzzing for it to open, because where else is there for us to have a fly cup?” she says.

“For the clients, it’s great because it’s somewhere else for us to go. There’s not many places you can go for lunch in Turriff. It’s nice to have something different.”

The 26-year-old admits competition may be felt at first.

“I think it could be a struggle to begin with because everyone usually goes to Murdoch Allan in the mornings,” she adds. “But people are loyal to the businesses they like.

“They’ll be excited to try it, then they’ll have their own opinions.”

Others echo that view, suggesting the initial surge of interest may level out once the novelty fades.

JG Ross has family-friendly appeal

For others, the appeal lies not just in choice, but in space and accessibility.

Self-employed Amadeusz Gawronski, 47, believes the opening will particularly benefit families and visitors.

“It’s a good brand,” he says.

“We’ve got a beautiful caravan park. But if you want to go somewhere for breakfast, there’s no place other than Murdoch Allan — and they don’t have enough seats.

“JG Ross will have enough space for families to have a nice breakfast.”

As someone who has followed a gluten-free diet all his life, he’s also hopeful the new bakery could widen options.

Dietary choice is a recurring theme among residents.

Margaret Davidson, who has lived in Turriff for eight years, says variety matters — especially for coeliacs.

“It’s a positive for the area because we need another bakery,” she says. “It’s nice to have variety.

“Tesco and Costcutter kept JG Ross products, but it’s nice to just be able to go in.

“Bread is a problem when you’re coeliac. Something made by a nice baker — nice fresh bread — that’s what I’m hoping for.”

She accepts there may be an impact on existing cafes in the short term.

“Initially, it may. But it’ll probably even out in the future.”

Local business owner welcomes new bakery, but stays realistic

Among local business owners, the tone is welcoming but measured.

Mark Stephen, owner of independent bottle shop Barrels and Botanicals, has lived in Turriff all his life.

“They’re quality bakers. Something like that coming into Turriff is a welcome addition, without a doubt,” the 56-year-old says.

“Turriff prides itself on having decent High and Main Streets. There’s a lot of towns around here struggling, and we’re trying to buck that trend.”

When asked about a potential negative impact on other cafes and bakeries, he says: “There is the possibility, but it’s the society we live in. Everyone’s out there to make a pound.”

‘It may stop other places from being complacent’

Mark doesn’t believe the town is oversaturated with food and drink outlets.

“Everybody’s got their own preferences,” he adds. “It’s good to see something like that [JG Ross] producing with fresh ingredients.

“It may stop other places from being complacent — it’s a unit filled that’s not got a For Sale sign on it anymore.

“There’s a diverse range of shops in Turriff and that’s the way it should be. We’ve got a healthy and competitive balance.”

Immediate impact on the street

That sense of momentum is echoed next door to JG Ross’ site at Turriff Local Charity Shop, where volunteers say the opening has already had an impact.

“Instead of an empty building, we’ve got something productive. A lot of folk will come here, then grab a coffee,” says volunteer Jennifer.

The charity shop — housed in part of the town’s former Royal Bank of Scotland building — opened in March 2021, driven by trustee Frances Sharp and chief trustee Rose Logan.

Since then, it has raised more than £160,000 for local groups and clubs, including £39,500 in 2025 alone, with every penny reinvested in Turriff.

Fellow trustee Marie says the change next door has lifted the street.

“It’s fairly brightened it up because that [building] was an eyesore,” she says.

“If there’s one thing about Turriff, we’ve got a heart. We have everything.”

There are practical concerns — parking remains a frustration for many — but the overriding mood is optimistic.

In a retail climate where many towns are losing footfall, Turriff appears to be gaining it.

And for many locals, JG Ross isn’t just opening its doors — it’s stepping straight into the rhythm of a town hungry for choice, quality and a thriving centre.

[Source: Press and Journal]