Laura Kurteshi opens up about the challenges leading to the sale of her business.
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Heartfelt decision to sell
Laura Kurteshi, the owner of the well-loved St Modans fish and chip shop in Fraserburgh, has announced the sale of her business, a decision that has left her family in tears. After six successful years of serving the community, Laura is preparing to hand over the reins to a new owner, marking what she describes as “the end of an era.” The announcement has stirred emotions, as Laura reflects on the memories and connections built over the years.
Family commitments drive the change
In an interview with The Press and Journal, Laura revealed that the decision to sell was not made lightly. Family commitments have become increasingly demanding, particularly with a two-year-old and two teenagers at home.
“It’s just not feasible to look after the kids and keep the shop going the way we want it to,” she explained. The emotional toll of balancing family life with business responsibilities has led her to this difficult choice, emphasizing that “money is not everything.” Laura expressed her desire to spend more quality time with her children, stating, “You cannot get the time back with your kids and your family.”
A community connection
As Laura prepares for the transition, she reflects on the relationships she has built with her customers. “It’s the customers that I’ll miss the most,” she said, highlighting the strong bonds formed over the years. Since opening in 2018, the shop has become a staple in the community, and Laura has enjoyed getting to know the locals and other businesses in the area. The emotional weight of leaving these connections behind adds to the sadness of the sale, as she acknowledges the impact the shop has had on her life and the lives of her customers.
Looking ahead
Despite the sadness surrounding the sale, Laura remains hopeful for the future. She has already received inquiries from interested parties and is optimistic about finding a suitable new owner who will continue the legacy of the shop. “It doesn’t feel real yet,” she admitted, as she shows potential buyers around the business. The shop will remain open during this transition, allowing Laura to continue serving her loyal customers while navigating this significant change in her life.
As she embarks on this new chapter, Laura is determined to cherish the memories made at St Modans fish and chip shop. The decision to sell may be bittersweet, but it is ultimately a step towards prioritizing family and personal well-being.
