In June 2020, a simple delivery sparked a delicious journey when postwoman, Penny Cameron, bemused by the 100 kilos of flour arriving at Susan Wallace’s door, asked if she was starting a bakery. What began as a happy accident has grown into LOAF, a much-loved micro-bakery in Strath Halladale, Sutherland.
Nearly four years later, Susan still bakes from her garden shed, delighting the far north coast with naturally leavened sourdough breads, sweet and savoury treats, and an irresistible commitment to quality.
From just two loaves a week, LOAF has risen to the ranks of a sell-out local favourite.
Part One
Rising Above
LOAF brings the flavours of the Highlands to every bake. Prioritising locally sourced ingredients and organic, ancient grains – including Barony Mill Beremeal from Orkney – Susan crafts wholesome loaves that offer an alternative to ultra-processed bread. One, giving her bakes a distinctly Highland character.
Through her pop-up shop, Susan also connects customers with other small businesses, creating a community-centred food experience that celebrates Sutherland’s local producers.
April brought a challenge when a key stockist closed unexpectedly, leaving Susan to redetermine her distribution. However, rather than letting her customers down, she set up impromptu deliveries in a local car park, determined to keep LOAF’s bread available to the community!
Since then, she has established a pop-up bakery in Thurso, where LOAF has flourished, quickly becoming known as the “Saturday Artisan Bakery.” Customers now wind down the street, eagerly awaiting their weekly batch of Susan’s delectable delights.
Part Two
A Recipe for Success
LOAF’s commitment to quality has earned Susan widespread recognition. In 2023, her Mighty Morning Buns won a prestigious Great Taste Award, and Highland Loaf earned a silver prize at the Scottish Bread Championship.
Through her involvement in Scotland the Bread’s “People’s Bread” initiative, Susan bakes “The Daily Bread” on a pay what you can basis, ensuring that her artisan-quality bread is accessible to everyone. This spirit of inclusivity and community connection is central to Highland Loaf’s ethos.
Susan’s passion for sharing her baking with the community has shaped Highland Loaf’s journey. As a member of the Highland Good Food Partnership, supported by Scotland Food & Drink’s Regional Food Groups, she plays an active role in promoting local produce and strengthening ties within Sutherland.
Looking ahead..
Susan hopes to expand Highland Loaf’s reach and dreams of establishing a community bakery that could supply nutritious sourdough loaves to schools and families along the north coast.
For Susan, LOAF is more than a business—it’s a way to nourish her community, see local businesses grow together, and share the joy of truly local bread with future generations.