In 2010, when Bigton found itself in danger of losing its village shop, the whole community came together to support lengthy negotiations to buy it. The Bigton Community Shop opened its doors on 15th April 2012. Celebrating over 10 years of community ownership, it is run by a dedicated team of staff and volunteers, the ethos being to involve everyone, connecting with a wide age range within the community.
The shop is home to the local post office, which offers a full range of services. Always keen to support local suppliers and producers, Bigton Community Shop has a wide range of fresh bread, meat, fish and dairy from local bakeries, butchers, fishmongers and Shetland Farm Dairies, as well as Ness Tatties, fresh eggs and local veg when available. There is a wide selection of goods from Scoop Wholefoods and you can even buy your daily papers, a postcard or two, picnic goods for the nearby beaches, or gifts and souvenirs made by local craftspeople. It is fully licensed, stocking a wide range including Lerwick Brewery beers and Shetland Reel gin.
The shop has wheelchair access, is dementia and autism friendly and conveniently situated across the road from public toilets, a five-minute walk from local beauty spot - St. Ninian’s Isle.
It is also a collection point for the Shetland Food bank and free wifi is available.