TWO Fife businesses have joined forces to mitigate the impact the pandemic has had on their sectors.

While the country slowly begins to get back on their feet, Loch Leven’s Larder and local florist, Cassia, owner of Salvona Floral Design, have teamed up.

Both businesses have recognised that now, more than ever, was a perfect time for small firms to work together to support each other and enhance their returning customers’ experience.

Cassia is well-known for running a successful floristry business in Kirkcaldy since 2018 and was fully booked for forthcoming weddings before lockdown.

Unfortunately Covid then struck and decimated her business. She recognised early on the need to modify her business model and adapt to the changing landscape and so, she approached Emma Niven, owner of Loch Leven’s Larder.

Emma told the Times it was the perfect opportunity to help out.

She said: “My heart really goes out to florists. Covid has adversely impacted us all but especially the floristry sector particularly with weddings having to be cancelled.

“When Cassia approached me I saw this as a perfect opportunity to try and help her and her team to get back on their feet but also saw it as a chance to enhance our customers’ experience when visiting Loch Leven’s Larder.

“It’s a perfect time particularly with the retail sector opening up once again. We had the kiosk lying empty outside our main entrance and having the Flower Barn there is a brilliant new addition.”

Cassia was equally thankful for the opportunity, she explained.

She told the Times: “We are slowly picking up with weddings again but having this floristry shop at the larder gives me and my team another opportunity.

“We’ll be offering bouquets to go, house and bedding plants and a pre order pick up service. We are excited to be working with Emma and the team at Loch Leven’s Larder.”

The Flower Cabin will be open Monday to Sunday, 10am-4pm customers can contact Cassia by emailing info@cassiasalvona.com to pre order.

Loch Leven’s Larder is open 9am-5pm, 7 days information is available www.lochlevenslarder.com.