Harry Gow PR

Source: Harry Gow

Harry Gow, founder of the Harry Gow bakery business in Scotland, passed away peacefully on December 20 at the age of 89.

He is survived by his five children – Jane, Pamela, Sara, David, and Fraser – who are carrying on his legacy at the family-run firm operating 18 shops across Inverness, the Highlands, and Moray, including its most recent location opened in Aviemore last year.

The company said it was mourning the loss of “a cherished figure whose name has become synonymous with quality, tradition, and community spirit in the Highlands”.

“Known for his dedication to craftsmanship and his commitment to supporting his community, Harry inspired generations of bakers and entrepreneurs both locally and nationwide,” it added.

Gow was born into a long line of bakers and began his career as an apprentice at the Burnett Brothers Bakery in Inverness in the 1950s. There, he honed his craft, eventually becoming the confectionery manager before striking out on his own in 1979.

From a humble cabin and industrial unit, Gow built a business that would become a household name throughout the region. As well as its 18-store chain, it also supplies cakes, biscuits, scones, pies, bread, and rolls to 34 local Co-op stores, two branches of Morrisons, and one Asda location.

As the story goes, Gow was approached by a female customer during one of his morning delivery rounds to a local housing scheme, who said: “Oh, I’ll have one of your cream rings; I’ve been dreaming about these all night”. He subsequently renamed the sweet treat, the ‘Dream Ring’ – it comprises a fluffy sponge ring with a creamy smooth filling and iced topping.

“Iconic creations like the Harry Gow ‘Dream Ring’ remain a testament to his creativity and deep connection to his customers, with the product’s name itself, a reflection of Harry’s personal touch and the fondness he inspired in those he served,” stated the company.

Beyond the bakery counter, Gow supported a variety of local and national charitable initiatives and was honoured as Epilepsy Scotland’s Employer of the Year in 2003, recognising his compassion and dedication to creating an inclusive workplace. One organisation that was close to his heart was Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS), which he supported both professionally and personally.

Reflecting on his father’s influence, Fraser Gow shared: “He taught us the value of hard work and the importance of doing things the right way. His vision built something truly special, and we’re proud to carry that forward”.

Harry Gow won the inaugural Scottish Baker of the Year award in 2012 and then won it again in 2019, a feat that has yet to be replicated by any other business. Last year, it rolled out a loyalty scheme offering free cakes to customers collecting six stamps from in-store purchases.