Popular West Lothian gelato hut launches first-of-its-kind 'churn at home' kit
Marguerite Spina’s gelato business has grown through word of mouth and has won several industry awards
The woman behind a popular gelato beach hut in West Lothian has launched a make-your-own gelato kit allowing people to hand-churn and enjoy her delicious Italian recipes at home.
Marguerite Spina launched her business Villaggio Gelato in 2022, inspired by her Italian heritage and love of traditional gelato-making.
She trained at the University of Gelato and was mentored by Edinburgh ice cream specialist Joseph Boni, who helped her develop her own signature recipe.
Ms Spina produces small-batch gelato using traditional Italian machinery from her colourful beach hut in Winchburgh Marina, as well as supplying weddings, farmers markets and corporate events.
Since launching the business she has sold over 15,000 cones and 1,000 tubs of gelato, and has won several awards including five bronze medals at the Royal Highland Show Dairy Championship Awards, where judges evaluate the best butter, cheese, ice cream, and cultured products across Scotland.
The young business owner has now developed an innovative ‘churn at home’ gelato kit, allowing customers to recreate her signature gelato in the comfort of their own home. She developed the idea after a request from her brother who lived in London at the time.
Ms Spina said: “The ‘churn at home’ gelato kit has been a really exciting step, inspired by customer demand, and it’s been rewarding to create a unique product that allows people to enjoy our gelato in a new way, wherever they are.
Speaking of the support she’s received from Business Gateway, an agency which supports people to start and grow their own businesses, she said: “Opening the beach hut was a defining moment for the business, and having Business Gateway’s support gave me the confidence to take that step and think bigger about what Villaggio Gelato could become.
“Being guided towards funding opportunities came at exactly the right time. It allowed me to invest in the business, reach new customers and keep building momentum with fresh ideas.“
Tahrir Waswas, a Business Gateway adviser, said: “Marguerite has shown real ambition in developing Villaggio Gelato into a business that continues to evolve and innovate.
“From establishing a strong retail presence to expanding into new product areas, her passion and commitment to growth has been clear throughout.
“Our role has been to support that journey with practical guidance, helping with planning, premises and access to funding, while also connecting her with relevant programmes and opportunities.
“It’s great to see the business thriving and gaining recognition, and we look forward to continuing to support Marguerite as she builds on this success.”