Inside TBCo: Portobello Picnics and Leith Life with Emma

TBCo began with a simple idea — wool blankets inspired by Scottish heritage — and has since grown into a B Corp‑certified lifestyle brand based in Leith. While the name has changed, the focus remains the same: responsibly produced materials, practical design, and unapologetic warmth. Co‑founder Emma lives just a stone’s throw from Portobello Beach, and her working life centres around the studio in Leith. You can see how place plays a part in everything TBCo does: scarves named for Scottish towns, blankets patterned for outdoor life, and a picnic‑ready ethos that favours coffee by the water and bread from a local café over corporate cafés.

It’s a business that balances creativity and community. In 2023 TBCo earned B Corp accreditation, pledging 2 percent of revenue to social and environmental causes. The studio itself is modest but full of purpose—swatches and yarns, open shelving with finished goods, and quiet conversations about materials and colour. It’s a space that feels thoughtful rather than staged, much like the brand.

We spoke to Emma to find out where she goes to switch off, grab a bite, and soak up inspiration. Her answers bring together the light breeze of the beach and the grounded feel of life in Leith. It’s an Edinburgh itinerary with comfort and local know‑how at its core.

We asked Emma to share her local picks, tools of the trade, and daily rhythms in Edinburgh.

Where is your favourite spot to enjoy a picnic in Edinburgh?
We live right by Portobello Beach so you will usually find me there with the kids running in and out of the sea covered in sand.

What local café would you be visiting to pick up your picnic goodies?
You can’t beat fish and chips by the sea, and Shrimp Wreck at Portobello do a very good shrimp bun!

Can you recommend some must-see spots in your neighbourhood?
We spend a lot of time in Leith at our studio and love wandering down to the shore and having lunch at The Rose Leaf or dinner at our favourite restaurant Borough. You can also walk along the Water of Leith which is beautiful and brings you out to Stockbridge where you can stop for some wine and cheese at Smith & Gertrude and the best ice cream at Jolato!