When the pandemic struck in early 2020, the world came to a standstill. Many businesses, especially those reliant on tourism, faced an uncertain future. Kitchen Coos & Ewes, a farm in the Luce Valley of Scotland, had just launched in 2019. Neale and Janet McQuistin, the couple behind the farm’s growing popularity, suddenly found themselves staring at the possibility of closure. But instead of waiting to see what would happen, the McQuistins adapted—and what happened next was extraordinary.
The Sudden Halt to Farm Tourism
Kitchen Coos & Ewes had barely gotten off the ground before the pandemic hit. Neale and Janet had created the business to share their love of Highland cows and farm life with visitors from around the world. Their farm tours, which allowed people to get up close with the shaggy-haired coos and explore their sustainable farm practices, were proving to be a success.
But in early 2020, like many others in the tourism industry, they were forced to shut their doors. With visitors unable to come to the farm, the McQuistins faced a new reality—how could they keep their business alive when no one could physically visit?
Taking the Farm Online
Instead of retreating, Neale and Janet decided to embrace technology. Neale took to Facebook, broadcasting live from the calving field and giving viewers a front-row seat to the everyday life on the farm. From calving updates to feeding the Highland cows, people around the world could now experience the farm without leaving their homes.
Meanwhile, Janet worked her magic on Instagram, sharing beautiful photos and stories that captured the essence of Kitchen Coos & Ewes. With every post, she brought the charm of the farm to a growing online audience. Through captivating stories and striking images of the coos and ewes, she built a loyal following, connecting with people who were longing for a taste of the Scottish countryside during lockdown.
The Rise in Popularity
The response was overwhelming. As people sought comfort in the simplicity of nature and farm life during the pandemic, Kitchen Coos & Ewes gained traction online. Thousands of people from across the globe tuned in to watch Neale’s live videos, while Janet’s Instagram account continued to grow. The farm’s Highland cows became local celebrities, with followers regularly checking in for updates on their daily lives.
By the time lockdown restrictions began to ease, Kitchen Coos & Ewes had transformed from a small local farm tour business into an internationally recognised brand. Their innovative use of social media not only kept their business afloat during the pandemic but also significantly expanded their reach. When visitors were finally able to return to the farm, Kitchen Coos & Ewes welcomed tourists from across the globe, eager to see the famous coos in person.
A New Chapter for Kitchen Coos & Ewes
Today, Kitchen Coos & Ewes is thriving. Neale and Janet’s decision to adapt during the pandemic not only saved their business but also allowed them to grow in ways they never could have imagined. The farm now sees visitors from all over the world, many of whom discovered it during the lockdown.
Their story is a testament to the power of adaptability and innovation in the face of adversity. What began as a challenging time for Kitchen Coos & Ewes has led to a new chapter of success, proving that with the right approach, even the most difficult circumstances can be turned into an opportunity.