A THRIVING Kilmarnock business is proving that success is still possible despite wider economic challenges.
Kilt Marnock, located on John Finnie Street, is celebrating two years of trading in the town, where staff say daily interactions with customers are the most rewarding part of the job.
Margaret Kirk, area manager, said: "Just interacting with the people is probably the most memorable thing, every day is quite different.
"You never know who'll walk in."
The store is owned by Andrew Graham, alongside two other locations in Ayr and Paisley.
To celebrate its two year anniversary, the shop took to social media to share the good news, and decorated the store with special balloons for the occasion.
Margaret added: "We are incredibly grateful to all our past, present and future customers.
"Their continued support means everything to us because without them, there simply would be no business.
"Here's to the next chapter."
Margaret is now anticipating an increase in business as football fans will be looking to represent Scotland while attending the World Cup in the US.
Despite their success, she acknowledged the struggles facing Kilmarnock town centre, particularly on King Street, where numerous shops have closed.
Margaret said: "It really is sad.
"To think what Kilmarnock was like even when I was a kid, it was a hustle-bustle town and now you walk down the street and there's nothing the same.
"The buildings in King Street I would say are hopeless, but there's a lot of nice shops in the back at Bank Street, so here's hoping we can bring it back up."
She believes "horrendous" business rates are preventing new independent retailers from taking the plunge.
Despite the tough environment, she hopes Kilt Marnock's success inspires others to see the potential for popular businesses in the town.
She said: "Since we've been here, it has been extremely busy.
"Kilmarnock is the one store out of the three of them that is the busiest and has the most drop-in folk for just a one off."
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