Angelini's 2 Go in Glasgow's Springburn search for local causes to support

Brian Cunningham and John MacKay first opened Angelini’s in Bishopton four years ago and have since enjoyed immense success.

Most recently, they were awarded the prestigious title of commended for Best Family Run Business in 2021 at the Scottish Italian Awards. 

READ MORE: 'Bravo tutti!': The Glasgow winners at the 2021 Scottish Italian Awards

Pictured: Brian Cunningham centre, John Mackay left and Chef Gary Maclean at Angelini's charity bake off

Speaking of their journey so far, Brian said: “Neither myself nor my business partner had a background in hospitality before we opened the first Angelini’s.

“Even though we didn’t really know what we were doing we’ve somehow managed to not only survive, but thrive which is fantastic.

“There wasn’t anywhere like that in Renfrewshire when we started out and I think the same is true for Springburn at the moment.

“We got the go ahead for the change of use of a shop which is right on the main street at the train station so we’re really looking forward to turning it into a nice wee 
takeaway.

“John was born and brought up in Springburn so it feels like we’re going back to his roots by opening the new shop.”

With plans to open in early January, Brian and his team are looking forward to bringing the same authentic Italian experience to the north of Glasgow and are currently hard at work in preparation.

READ MORE: Our pick of the best new restaurants and cafes opened in Glasgow this year

He said: “It’s going to be a sister restaurant to our first restaurant, so we’ll use all the same fresh ingredients and cooking methods.”

Although there’s no denying that the tasty new eatery will be a great addition to the area, Brian hopes that they will bring their core charitable values with them to the new location as well.

In the past Angelini’s has worked with local clubs, charities and organisations to provide everything from financial support to sponsorship.

Last year, one of their main campaigns sought to raise money for schools at Christmas time and saw Angelini’s donate money to provide gifts for hundreds of children in need.

Brian said: “Something that’s really central to everything that we do is working with local communities.

“We’re very passionate about helping anyone who requires a bit of support.

“Through our Bishopton restaurant we’ve sponsored youth sports teams, professional boxers and the Erskine hospice.

“In particular working with school children feels close to home for us because we have friends who are teachers and know that there are high levels of poverty.

“Some of the stories you hear today are just heart-breaking. 

“Things like young children getting a toothbrush as a Christmas or birthday present.

“It’s just awful that it happens so often in this day and age. There are little things that we could all be doing to help out more.”

To help them achieve their goal of becoming an active and beneficial part of the local community, Brian is now hoping that local groups will come forward and seek their partnership.

Pictured: Angelini's general manager Michelle presents a donation to Bishopton Primary School

He said: “Although Springburn was John’s home, he’s been away for a good few years so it’s hard to know where it starts in terms of getting involved with the local community.

“We’ve started having meetings with local councillors and church members but really we’re just looking for any way that we could add value to the area.

“If there’s anyone at all out there that feels we could help them then we would love for them to try and speak to us.

“We might not be able to help everyone in need, but we would like to help as many as we possibly can.” 

Angelini’s 2GO will be open from early January at 189 Springburn Way, Glasgow.

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