The family business was founded by Thomas Baillie (left) over 115 years ago. Thomas was originally a butcher from the Island of Bute, who foresaw a great business prospect in the town of Saltcoats, which, in 1889, was appreciating an economic boom. With an increasing population and the recent introduction of a railway station attracting more and more commuters and holiday makers, Saltcoats was just the sort of town to attract an ambitious young businessman such as Thomas Baillie.

Thomas opened up a small butcher shop on Green Street in 1889. As the business prospered, it was not long until new premises were desired. Thomas Baillie furthered his business by moving to a larger shop at 42 Dockhead Street, Saltcoats. Not only was this a much larger building, but it was situated in the prime location of Dockhead Street - the main thoroughfare of Saltcoats.

Thomas was a keen businessman and his next move was to open a branch shop in Raise Street. This branch was operated by the late Jimmy Brown, who looked after both the interests of his employer and his customers in exemplary manner. It was not until 1968 that this branch was closed down when the town council acquired the site for redevelopment purposes.

The founder was joined in partnership by his eldest son, James W. Baillie (right).

When Thomas Baillie died in 1937, he was a man held in high esteem by the public and his fellow merchants. His son, James, carried on the business for a further 16 years before he too was joined by his own son, Thomas Watt Baillie.

Thomas Watt Baillie (left), better known as Tom Baillie, joined the business after finishing his National Service in 1953 after his father, James, took ill. Unfortunately, James died a year later in 1954. Leaving the business to Tom.

Tom continued to run the business with help from his faithful and diligent staff for a number of years. During this time his own son, James was working part time during his school years.

Tom retired at the age of 65 in 1998. Including part-time work, Tom was in the business for 50 years and still continues to help out occasionally.

In 1983, James joined the business full-time at the age of 22. He enjoyed working with his dad, learning not just the manufacturing but the technical side of the business. These skills proved worthwhile as T Baillie & Son reached their centenary in 1989. This anniversary was celebrated throughout the town and in the local paper, "The Ardrossan & Saltcoats Herald", which featured a centre-page article about the family and the business, including a centenary prize draw which was held in the shop.

Times have changed in the supply of meat to the public in Saltcoats. At one time there were over a dozen butchers in Saltcoats, and today there are only two. James feels that being well established and dealing with good quality produce has contributed greatly to the business' survival.

James has been married for 20 years to Pauline and has three sons, Martin (18), Nathan (15) and Adam (10). Martin is currently studying at University, and whether one of the boys takes over the business, time will tell.