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Julie Dalton, founder of St Andrews’ Adamson hospitality group, has been named as one of Scotland’s Top 10 Women to Watch in Business. At the Business Women Scotland Awards, held last Friday in Glasgow, Dalton was recognised for ‘her 30 plus years of leadership in the hospitality industry, her dedication to community values, and her unwavering support for female entrepreneurship’. This marks the second year running that Dalton has secured a top position in the awards, following her win as Entrepreneur of the Year in 2024. Dalton founded The Adamson in 2012, following a lengthy career in hospitality roles across London, New York and Los Angeles. It quickly became a local favourite for its refined take on steak, seafood and cocktails, earning 2 AA Rosettes and recognition in Scotland the Best’s Top 120 restaurants. In 2017, Julie launched Hatch – a brunch and casual dining venue designed to welcome both locals and students with a fresh, accessible menu of dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Then in 2023, she introduced The Physician, a concept-led cocktail bar which has since been recognised as a finalist in the Scottish Thistle Awards and named New Bar of the Year in the Scottish Bar and Pub Awards. All along, Dalton has sought to mentor female entrepreneurs, creating rigorous training programmes, and helping women in hospitality step into leadership roles. Under her leadership, the Adamson group has become known not just for the quality of the guest experience but for this culture behind the scenes – actively mentoring young talent and championing women at all levels of hospitality. She said: “It’s a real honour to be recognised again by Business Women Scotland – and among such a brilliant line-up of female founders, leaders and changemakers. “I’m so proud of what we’ve built in St Andrews – it’s not just about great venues, it’s about creating space for ideas, creativity, and people to thrive. I hope this recognition inspires other women in hospitality and beyond to push forward and lead boldly.” Julie is also a trustee of The Hamish McHamish Foundation and a director of BID St Andrews.
