Life-changing accident inspires young duo to follow Oban cafe dream
A new Oban cafe owner has told how he has been wowed by the sense of community spirit in the town.
Aaron McClements, 23, and Alfie Edwards, 22, opened Anchor and Steam on October 19 and have since been focused on making the new George Street space somewhere that people will come to gather and engage with each other, as well as enjoying the fare.
The decision to move west and follow their dream of becoming business owners was brought to the fore as they looked to continue to aid Aaron’s recovery from a life-changing accident in 2023.
After finding a location for their coffee shop dream, the pair secured a home in Dalmally and began to transform the building after getting the keys on October 1.
Aaron says that the venture has already offered them so much.
He said: “There has been a real community oomph behind it and we already have established plenty of regulars, which is lovely.
We already have people who just come in for an hour to enjoy some company and a chat, and for us that is what it is all about.
“We want to be here for the community and create a space that co-exists and complements the town.
“The whole idea behind it all was to launch in the winter, create a nice welcome space and become familiar faces."
The couple revealed that over 90 per cent of the shop’s visitors have so far been local people.
On why they chose Oban, Alfie explained: “In many places, especially down south, you don’t know your neighbours; everyone tends to keep themselves to themselves.
“Since we arrived, we have loved walking around and exploring the area. We always take our sausage dog to Ganavan Beach and have spent some time around our home in Dalmally. We are settling in really well."
Despite trying their best to get out and find their feet, the budding owners admit they are dedicating a lot of their time to the shop and have only had one day off since pulling up the shutters.
Alfie said: “We did not realise how much work would need to be done. The walls had to be painted, things needed stripping down, it was a lot of graft, but we are pleased with how well we have been received."
Plans for Anchor and Stream are now gearing up towards the festive period, with Aaron and Alfie drawing up ideas for their Christmas window display.
Introducing late-night openings and a starring role in the Oban Winter Festival are now high on their agenda.
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