Established in 1857, the firm of William Shearer has been in the same family for five generations and is one of a select few Orcadian firms with pedigrees stretching back to the 19th Century. The business is currently run by Richard Shearer, the fourth generation of the family in partnership with his wife Audrey and sons William and Raymond.

Their Enthusiasm and dedication have seen the addition of fishing tackle (a trade we have not been associated with since the 1920s) under William's watchful eye and Raymond's fully stocked gun department. The firm is now Orkney's only Registered gun dealer.

Despite the many changes in Kirkwall and the ongoing changes in our own business, our core values remain the same. From the end of October to the middle of March each year, Richard and William travel to all corners of Orkney, Shetland and Caithness visiting farmer customers to discuss the past year and hopefully secure future business. Raymond then sees that deliveries arrive on farm on time. This tradition of buying, selling, blending and delivering has continued uninterrupted for over 100 years. Great changes have taken place in farming over the years and we continue to source the best and most productive grass varieties for our mixtures.
We hope that, on your next visit to William Shearer, not only do you find what you are looking for, but that you also experience something of what a traditional family run business is all about. Dedication to you, the customer.

OPENING HOURS

Monday to Saturday: 9am - 5.30pm
Sunday: closed