BID4Oban News for October

As October draws to a close and summer feels like a distant memory, there's still plenty to look forward to in Oban. From business networking opportunities to family-friendly events and festive celebrations, the coming weeks are packed with reasons to get involved, connect with others, and enjoy everything our community has to offer.

We begin by welcoming 6 new Directors to the Board of BID4Oban, with years of business experience between them, their knowledge will be an asset taking BID4Oban forward.  Thanks also go to our retiring Directors who have worked tirelessly to make BID4Oban and Oban a better place for us all.

 Business Networking

We're delighted to be partnering with the West Highland Chamber of Commerce to host a networking event over coffee and cake at The Rockfield Centre on Thursday 29th October at 3:00pm.   Hosted by Professor Donald MacLean, an active member of the Chamber Board, this is a great opportunity to meet fellow business owners, share ideas, explore potential collaborations, and learn more about how both the West Highland Chamber of Commerce and BID4Oban can support your business.

Can't make it? Our next networking event will take place on Thursday 26th November at 3:00pm, also at The Rockfield Centre.

Family Entertainment

One of Oban's most anticipated annual events returns on Saturday 7th November with BID4Oban Oban Bay Fireworks Display at 7.30pm

Gather family and friends and enjoy a spectacular evening as fireworks light up Oban Bay. For the best view, find a spot overlooking the Northern Lighthouse Board Pier and experience what is widely regarded as one of Scotland's finest fireworks displays.

Festive Celebrations Begin

The countdown to Christmas starts with our much-loved Annual Reindeer Parade on 28th November, supported by the Oban Rotary Club and Oban Lions Club.

Santa and his reindeer will leave the Corran Halls at 5pm, making their way through town before arriving at Station Square in time for the Christmas Lights Switch-On at 5:30pm. It's a magical evening for all ages and the perfect way to welcome the festive season.

Looking Ahead to Hogmanay

We'll round off the year in spectacular style with our traditional Hogmanay Fireworks Display from the Tower. A firm favourite with both locals and visitors, it's the perfect way to celebrate the arrival of the New Year.

 We look forward to seeing you at these events and thank you for your continued support of BID4Oban throughout the year. Together, we're helping make Oban a vibrant place to live, work and visit.

The BID4Oban welcomes further enquiries from Levy Payers.  Please contact Kay.

Email: info@bid4oban.co.uk or call 01631 569915 Office Hours are 9am to 1pm Monday to Friday

The principal aim of the BID is to deliver projects and services that will improve the trading environment of the BID area to the benefit of businesses, their customers and visitors.

Established November 2012. BID4Oban is clearly focused on improving Oban as a commercial and tourist destination. Our key objectives reflect this:

Levy Payers

Since the inception of BID4Oban in 2012 and following successful re-ballots in 2017 and 2022 we have worked to improve the business and commercial opportunities for Oban.

The BID is funded by a small levy that is charged to every business in Oban that has a rateable value of £3000 or above. The smallest levy paid is £150 up to £5000 for the largest businesses. This generates an annual income of £145,000. The levy is used to supplement and fund services and grants for which there would be no funding available if the BID was not in place.

About BID4Oban

The BID was originally set up by a group of businesses in Oban. Every five years the business community vote for the continuation of the BID or not. We work to a fluid business plan that can adapt to the economic climate throughout the duration of the BID. We are ideally placed to receive additional funding for key projects from various partners including Argyll and Bute Council.

Supporting Business Community and Other Groups

BID4Oban has supported not just the business community but other groups and organisations within the town with event funding grants, funding of community projects and offered commercial support for community organisations.

LoveOban Vouchers are bought in Oban to be spent in Oban.

In denominations of £5, £10, £20, £50, they are the perfect gift for any occasion and allow the recipient to shop in over 80 businesses.

Remember by buying and using Love Oban Vouchers you are supporting local Oban businesses.

Each purchase of vouchers comes with a beautiful gift card showing a view of Oban and a leaflet detailing the businesses which accept LoveOban Vouchers.