A bakery business that was just a pipe dream 12 months ago is about to move to bigger premises and launch a new café as it keeps up with a whirlwind first year.

Archipelago Artisan Bakery on Queen Street, which was launched last year with help from RBS, has received a £25,000 loan to create a new bakery, café and take-away in the city’s New Town at 39 Dundas Street.

Officially opening its doors on May 18, the new venue is owned by baker Caroline Walsh and is set to create new jobs and add to the city’s vibrant café scene.

Launched in 2014 as a bakery, business has been brisk since it first opened as locals and commuters visit for its mix of local sourced produce and home-made items.

Caroline said: “It was always a dream of mine to open my own bakery and café.

“I’ve always love the idea of making well-made goods and making sure that my ingredients have provenance.

“Thanks to shifting attitudes amongst the public who are much more knowledgeable about food and who care about what they are eating there is a real market out there for people who want food that tastes great and healthy at the same time.

“Thankfully RBS has believed in me from the start. My relationship manager supported me when I first launched the bakery and when I suggested expanding the business, he helped me find a way to make it happen.”

The new artisan bakery and café will operate six days a week with fresh produce made every day. Caroline is keen to create a window for other local food manufacturers to sell their goods.

It will also lead to the opportunity for more jobs. Currently, the operation is run by Caroline and one member of staff.

Euan Reynolds, Caroline’s business manager at RBS, said: “The food and drink sector is a key industry for Scotland and it has been brilliant to help Caroline realise her ambitions.

“RBS has been able to be there for her to talk her through different aspects of developing her business – something that is crucial when operating as a sole trader.”