Tom Arthur praised Paisley First during Eggs Nest visit

Tom Arthur, Minister for Business and Fair Work, praised the work of Paisley First BID during a visit to the newly opened Eggs Nest breakfast and brunch venue on Bridge Street.

Mr Arthur said: "Business Improvement Districts play a vital role in supporting investment in communities to address local priorities, helping our local places and economies to thrive.

"It is great to be back in Paisley to see for myself the impact Paisley First has had in supporting local businesses and the revival of Paisley town centre."

Eggs Nest is the latest venture from businessman Indrit Mataj, who also runs the popular Trattoria Genova.

Described as "a European-inspired space" designed to feel "modern, fresh, and built for brunch done in style," Egg Nest has quickly drawn positive attention.

Tom Arthur, Minister for Business and Fair Work, visited the new Egg Nest in Paisley (Image: Supplied)

During his visit, Mr Arthur met with Mr Mataj and Elaine Templeton, chair of Paisley First, who updated him on the BID's work to support existing businesses and attract new investment into the town centre.

Indrit Mataj said: "Paisley is the heart of Renfrewshire, and the support we've received from the local community through Trattoria Genova has been incredible.

"When we decided to create a new dining experience centred around breakfast and brunch, there was only one place we wanted to bring it to life – Paisley.

"The people here have always supported us, and this is our way of giving something back to the town that has given us so much."

Paisley First is currently organising several events and campaigns to boost footfall and celebrate local enterprise, including Paisley CarFest on June 20 and the summer Brick Buddies Trail, which will run from June 27 to August 16.

The town was recently named Scotland’s Town of the Year in the 2025 Scotland Loves Local Awards, recognising its progress and investment.

Elaine Templeton, chair of Paisley First, said: "Running a small business is particularly challenging in the current economic climate, which makes it especially encouraging to see established business owners continuing to invest in Paisley town centre.

"Eggs Nest is a fantastic addition to the town and further strengthens Paisley’s growing reputation as a destination for food lovers.

"We’re also seeing an increasing number of first-time entrepreneurs choosing Paisley as the place to launch their businesses.

"We’re hopeful this is a clear sign that confidence in the town centre continues to grow."

Mr Arthur was also briefed on the wider network of improvement districts in Scotland by Kimberley Guthrie, chief officer of Scotland’s Towns Partnership, the parent organisation for Scotland's Improvement Districts.

Kimberley Guthrie said: "Paisley First does a fantastic job in flying the flag for the town.

"Its success was an important part in Paisley being named as Scotland’s Town of the Year.

"Across the country, Scotland’s Improvement Districts are significant players in making their places better, helping to attract people and investment which provides critical support for local businesses, as well as driving community wealth.

"It’s great that Mr Arthur has had the chance to hear about Paisley First’s work, as well as that of the wider BID network and its positive impact on local and national economies."

The 2026 Scotland Loves Local Awards are now open for entries, with categories including Town of the Year and High Street Heroes.

Nominations can be submitted at www.lovelocal.scot/awards.