'Your Business' Spring Magazine 2024

the magazine of Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce and Industry

INSIDE:

Inspiring evening at Ayrshire’s largest business dinner page 8

Innovation – Driving Ayrshire forward page 18 & 19

Making a difference for young people page 26 - 31

CONTACTS

Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce & Industry,

The Mezzanine, Glasgow Prestwick Airport, Prestwick, KA9 2PL

Mail enquiries@ayrshire-chamber.org

Call 01292 678666

Visit www.ayrshire-chamber.org

President Alison Somerville

Chief Executive ...................................Claire Baird

MAGAZINE

Editorial ................ kate@ayrshire-chamber.org

Ad Sales lstewart@ayrshire-chamber.org

Design/Typesetting advertisingworks.co.uk

Print/Distribution brown-bros.com

Platinum Partners

Ayrshire Chamber is delighted to continue our association with our ever-growing Platinum Partners. A bespoke programme which sees our Partners as an intrinsic part of our membership, with access to additional benefits that add significant value to their relationship with the Chamber.

Partner membership is a strategic collaboration between the Chamber and your business, working together on shared aims and objectives placing you firmly at the heart of the Chamber. Engagement with us at this level offers opportunities to build brand exposure, demonstrate commitment to the region, establish high profile connections to grow your network and influence regional and national decision makers.

Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to welcome our newest Platinum Partner, SCAPE Scotland.

New Members

Silver continued:

SCAPE SCOTLAND general@scape-scotland.co.uk www.scape-scotland.co.uk

BLACKWOOD PLANT HIRE LIMITED

BLACKWOOD TRAINING ACADEMY

AMG AESTHETICS

ANDREW DODDS

AUTOCARE

ANGLO SCOTTISH ASSET FINANCE LTD

CURTAINWISE SCOTLAND LTD

DENHAM YOUD

DETALO CREATIVE MARKETING LIMITED

The Board of Directors is delighted to welcome the following companies as recently joined members of Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce and Industry:

GILLIAN BAILLIE PLANNING LIMITED

JUNIPER FINANCIAL PLANNING LTD

KADENCE CONSULTANCY LTD

KEVIN WATT - JUST MORTGAGES

LENMAR

LITTLE TEXAS BBQ

LOCHLIE CONSTRUCTION GROUP

MACDOUGALL MEMORIALS LTD

NET ZERO NATION LTD

NK DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL CLEANING

OSHAY’S BRAIN DOMAIN

PENNEY LANE STUDIOS

PINE TREES NURSERY

PRO-RENTALS & STORAGE SOLUTIONS LTD

RN CLEANING SERVICES LTD

SCOTTISH SPCA

SIXTEEN10 FURNITURE

SOUTH AYRSHIRE SOCIAL ENTERPRISE NETWORK

SOUTHERN AYR LTD

THE BETTII POD LTD

THE JEWEL ROOM

MARATHON HOUSE

ADVANCA MARKETING SOLUTIONS

FOR THE LOVE OF LEMONS

FRANKLIN CLARK MEDIA

GO4GROWTH SUPPORT SERVICES LTD

HYPERHEALTH LTD

LOVE YOUR MIND BODY & SOUL

A SCENTS OF SCOTLAND

ODS DIGITAL LTD

SLATER STRATEGY & PARTNERSHIPS

WEEONA CREATIONS

WISHING WELLNESS

Help us to strengthen your business network by referring companies who would benefit from Chamber Membership! Call the membership team on 01292 678666 or visit the referral page on our website www.ayrshire-chamber.org/member-benefits-services/referral-scheme.

platinum goldplus gold silver

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Ayrshire business is ready to spring into action

At time of writing this the Spring Statement had just been delivered by the Chancellor Jeremy Hunt and from a business perspective, not enough has been done to change the narrative and restore our reputation as an entrepreneurial and business-friendly nation.

Businesses here in Ayrshire and across the country are continuing to deal with spiralling costs fuelled by higher energy prices, higher inflation, and higher interest rates. On top of that, persistent labour challenges continue to prevent businesses from growing. Unfortunately, the budget will do little to relieve these pressures and for too many sectors the struggle will continue.

Despite the challenges we continue to face I hope the Spring edition of our magazine can highlight that it is not all doom and gloom as we showcase Innovation in Ayrshire.

Just recently Ayrshire has been named as a ‘5G Innovation Region’ after beating off stiff competition from across the UK to secure

£3.8 million of UK Government funding. Only one of two in Scotland to be successful the funding will see the region transformed with new cutting-edge 5G and advanced wireless technologies.

A partnership between the three Ayrshire Councils and partners University West of Scotland, Ayrshire College, The Scotland 5G Centre and National Manufacturing Institute Scotland.

The Innovation hub located at The HALO will be used to build on technologies at three key sites:

• Digital Processing Manufacturing Centre (DPMC) at i3 Enterprise Area in Irvine

• Aerospace Innovation Hub, Prestwick International Aerospace Park

• Ayrshire Innovation Park, Moorfield, Kilmarnock

The enhanced 5G and wireless coverage will make these sites even more productive and desirable to investment – helping provide significant economic benefits.

Ayrshire Business Week 2024

Continuing on the theme I am delighted to announce that we have introduced a new Innovation category as part of this year’s Ayrshire Business Awards, see page 24 for further details.

Applications for the awards will launch in April, so keep your eyes peeled. We are looking forward to another opportunity to be able to showcase the vibrant business community we have across Ayrshire.

Claire Baird CEO of Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce

Celebrating 25 Years of Rewards Training Scotland

As Rewards Training Scotland proudly celebrates its 25th anniversary, it’s a moment not just to commemorate this achievement, but to reflect on the profound impact this institution has had on individuals and companies across the nation throughout all sectors of industry.

For a quarter of a century, Rewards Training Scotland has remained committed to empowering individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in today’s world of work, through providing a vast range of training opportunities and accredited qualifications.

Founded on the principles of excellence, innovation and inclusivity, Rewards Training Scotland has continuously adapted to meet the evolving needs of industries and learners alike. Through its comprehensive range of learning and training programmes,

spanning from Modern Apprenticeships to ILM Accredited Qualifications, and Personal Development training courses to Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB) training programmes, the organisation has provided pathways to success for learners from all walks of life.

This has been highlighted by their incredible repeat business statistics as well as their ability to expand on an impressive client portfolio. Skills Development Scotland (SDS) has also recently recognised Rewards Training Scotland’s fantastic achievement rates by awarding them with additional funded Modern Apprenticeship places for this contract year.

As Rewards Training Scotland celebrate this occasion, they applaud the achievements of their team over the past 25 years but also look ahead with excitement and optimism for the future.

www.rewardstraining.com

Local, proactive IT support in Ayrshire

For over a decade, Innovec has delivered tailored IT solutions to businesses across Scotland.

What sets them apart is their proactive approach to IT—a philosophy deeply ingrained in every aspect of their services. Rather than waiting for problems to arise, Innovec anticipates and prevents them, allowing customers to focus on what truly matters to them – running and growing their business.

With a team of local experts who specialise in catering to the unique requirements of their customers, they go beyond the usual surface level troubleshooting. Innovec conducts regular

customer site visits, familiarising themselves with the IT needs of the business, the people and any frustrations they face. The aim of this for Innovec is to become an extension of the customer’s team and familiarise themselves with their operations, goals, and challenges. Understanding this allows Innovec to successfully provide bespoke IT services.

Innovec customers have dedicated engineers who will manually conduct weekly checks on the IT infrastructure. This handson tactic ensures that potential issues or challenges are identified and addressed before they escalate. Innovec also understands that

businesses today usually operate within a complex ecosystem of service providers and technologies. This means they routinely work directly with customers’ other third-party providers, taking on the role of mediator and coordinator so that business owners or IT managers don’t have to.

Innovec itself has continued to grow at an impressive rate, successfully managing the IT Support for over 200 customers across Scotland, with a total of 11 staff, all of whom are based less than an hour away from their customers.

www.innovec.co.uk

Energy Agency shares innovation and expertise

In conjunction with South Ayrshire Council, the Energy Agency runs a series of Sustainable Design and Construction CPD events. Now in its 17th year, the programme is designed to bring the latest thinking and practices to a wide range of professionals. The monthly sessions are a mix of in-person visits and online webinars. Recently, Mitsubishi Electric generously hosted an informative behind the scenes tour of their heat pump factory in Livingston.

Air-Source Heat Pumps (ASHPs) are highly efficient, converting energy from the air into heat using a compressor. They can achieve a COP (Coefficient of Performance) greater than 3, meaning you get more heat output than the electricity input. These pumps can significantly reduce heating bills compared to traditional electric or gas heating systems. By generating heat without burning fossil fuels, they reduce carbon emissions and contribute to a greener planet.

Mitsubishi Electric are now manufacturing a new model, the Ecodan R290, which produces a higher heating performance. Designed to operate quietly, this heat pump has the capacity to provide reliable home heating in extreme conditions. Even in temperatures as low as -15°C, it can reach a high heating temperature of 75°C, matching that of a traditional gas boiler. With the cost-of-living crisis, this means enhanced energy savings and reduced operational costs.

Energy Agency’s CPD events are open to all design and construction professionals and cover a range of topics such as renewable energy solutions, retrofit practices, energy efficiency, conservation techniques and the latest product innovations.

For information on renewable technologies and CPD events visit www.energyagency.org.uk

25 years of growth and success for hydraulic business

Setup in April 1999, Howford Hydraulics Ltd has grown into one of the largest hydraulic engineering and component supply companies in the UK. Founder and managing director, George Bryson, started the company after around 10 years solving customers' problems for other companies and has spent the last 25 years building the company into what it is today.

The company started with a £5000 loan, a £500 portacabin office and stock held

in a double garage at the rear of Georges house. This initial unit has had 2 extensions since, including a machine shop for inhouse machining and hydraulic cylinder repairs.

As the company has grown, its customer base has changed significantly. Agricultural markets are still very much a part of the client base; however, Howford Hydraulics are now a main supplier to railway equipment manufacturers and have gone into the marine markets with valued customers in the boat building and repair fields.

George Bryson;

“We value all our customers and treat every order the same, no matter the value.”

“I thank my staff, who have helped make the company what it is today. As well as new staff, we have some staff members who have been with us for over 15 years.”

Howford Hydraulics Ltd would like to thank all their customers for their support over the last 25 years, and look forward to assisting them with their requirements for the next 25 years.

Celebrating Scottish Apprenticeship Week

As Ayrshire’s leading provider of apprenticeship training, Ayrshire College was thrilled to participate in various events during early March to celebrate Scottish Apprenticeship Week.

This year’s campaign theme, Skills Generation, saw the College expanding its offerings in Foundation and Modern Apprenticeships across various industries such as Engineering, Construction Trades, Hospitality, Hairdressing, Automotive, Social Services and Healthcare and Life Sciences. Over the current academic year, the college have supported 1,300 Modern Apprentices, a 15% increase from last year.

Identifying progression pathways across

a range of key sectors ensure that the College Curriculum meets with industry requirements. An excellent example of meeting the regional skills requirements is within the Engineering and Aeronautical sectors, where the Pre-Apprenticeship Engineering courses ensure that candidates achieve the practical based Performing Engineering Operations qualifications during their time at Ayrshire College. This qualification is a key component of the Engineering and Aeronautical Modern Apprenticeship.

Foundation Apprenticeships (FA) also provide progression routes from School/ College partnership delivery into a Modern Apprenticeship. Ayrshire College is currently working with schools across the region to

Launch’s Creative Director, Richard, shines on “The Chatty Freelancer” podcast

In the latest buzz from the design and podcasting world, Richard Longmuir, the Creative Director at Launch Digital, chatted the vibrant Chloe Marie Doyle on “The Chatty Freelancer” podcast. Richard, known for his profound impact on the design community and his efforts to uplift local businesses in Scotland, shared his insights on a topic close to his heart: “design for good.”

Richard’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of designers is evident through his lecturing and mentoring at Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU). His dedication to the community extends further as he serves as a board Director at the Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce.

The conversation with Chloe dove into the heart of using design to address societal challenges, including Richard’s initiatives with Launch Foods to combat child hunger.

The discussion ventured beyond the surface of design. Richard’s personal stories, from wearing pink tartan kilts to advocating for meaningful causes, underscored the episode with a blend of humour and depth.

Listeners of “The Chatty Freelancer” were treated to the podcast’s first-ever live pie tasting, courtesy of Browning’s The Bakers. This light-hearted segment paired well with the serious discussion of design ethics and the power of thoughtful design to influence social issues.

deliver FAs in a range of sectors including Health and Social Care, Business Skills, Childcare, Hospitality and Life Sciences.

Ayrshire College prides itself on the strong employer relationships which have been enhanced through the partnership work with the Ayrshire Chamber and Developing the Young Workforce staff teams. By deepening these connections and boosting employer engagement, we aim to continue fostering skill development across both traditional and emerging sectors via our growing apprenticeship programmes to create the next generation of skilled workforce across Ayrshire. For a skills assessment, contact the Apprenticeship Team via: apprenticeships@ayrshire.ac.uk

Richard’s appearance on the podcast coincides with his feature in the Glasgow Caledonian University graduate spotlight, aimed at celebrating his accomplishments post-graduation and motivating the wider GCU community.

This special episode not only highlighted Richard’s significant contributions to design and community but also sparked conversations around the moral responsibilities of designers today.

Listen now on Spotify and Apple Podcasts

Inspiring evening at Ayrshire’s largest business dinner

It was a time for celebration at Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce’s 2024 annual dinner at the Lochside House Hotel in New Cumnock.

More than 270 people attended the event on Friday, February 23, which was hosted by Robbie Duncan, a speaker and owner of Quest Farm Supplies.

Our principal sponsor was A&L Mechanical Installations Ltd, whose Operations Manager Kenneth Dallas spoke during the dinner, in a speech that highlighted the major contributions Ayrshire people have made on a local, national and international stage.

He also spoke about the continued growth of the business and the support he continues to receive from the Chamber.

HAUS of Dentistry was a secondary sponsor, with supporting sponsors including Ayrshire design and print company Creatur, distillers Loch Lomond Group, RAD Hotel Group and Arran Ice Cream.

The guest speaker at the dinner was Fiona Campbell, who is chief executive of the Association of Self-Caterers. She said: “It was an honour and a privilege to have had the opportunity to share insights from my journey as the chief executive of the Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers (ASSC). Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce’s warm reception and engaged participation made the event truly memorable.

“I appreciated the thoughtful questions, lively discussions, and valuable connections made during our time together. I hope that my reflections on leadership, advocacy and teamwork resonated with members and provided

valuable insights for the business community.

“Remember: leadership is not just about achieving individual success but about empowering others and fostering collaboration for the greater good. Thank you once again for the opportunity to connect with your members. I look forward to continued collaboration and the opportunity to support each other’s endeavours in the future.

Chamber CEO Claire Baird said: “It was a wonderful evening, highlighting just why we are proud to support Ayrshire businesses.

“Hearing from local businesses working here in Ayrshire was inspirational. I would like to thank all our sponsors for their support in making this a truly memorable evening, as well as everyone in the Chamber team and at the hotel. They were superb hosts, as ever.”

Break the Silence, a Kilmarnock-based organisation that supports survivors of sexual abuse, were crowned the 2024 Business Excellence Award winner during the event.

The charity raffle raised a fantastic £3,355 for CentreStage Communities, thanks to the generosity of attendees.

Chamber Events

Ayrshire Chamber runs a programme of informative events throughout the year. Our events allow your business to connect with other organisations, stay up-to-date with the latest business trends and upskill your workforce.

If you would like to be added to our mailing list, please email kate@ayrshire-chamber.org

Upcoming events:

Unleash the Power of ChatGPT & Artificial Intelligence (AI) to grow your business with guest speaker

Connect @ The Park Hotel, Kilmarnock

Scottish Enterprise Corporate Plan – Members Update with

Martin, Managing Director of Innovation and Investment

To keep up to date with all our upcoming events and to book, please visit www.ayrshire-chamber.org/events

Recent Chamber Events

Upcoming Training and Development sessions:

Our calendar of Training and Development sessions cover a diverse range of areas including Skills for Business, Management, Leadership and HR, Business Finance & Accounting, Digital Marketing, Copywriting, A.I. Artificial Intelligence and Health and Wellbeing.

Ayrshire Chamber Training Partners

For our upcoming Training and Development programme visit www.ayrshire-chamber.org/ events/training-developmentprogramme

Active Office Technology is a leading provider of comprehensive cybersecurity services tailored to businesses across Ayrshire. Specialising in safeguarding digital assets and ensuring the resilience of information systems, we understand the evolving landscape of cyber threats and offer managed solutions to protect your business.

Our cybersecurity services encompass a range of measures designed to fortify your digital infrastructure. We conduct thorough risk assessments to identify vulnerabilities and formulate customized strategies to address potential threats. From implementing robust firewalls and intrusion detection systems to deploying innovative endpoint security solutions, our comprehensive approach any organisation is well-defended against a myriad of cyber risks.

In addition to protecting against external threats, we prioritise the education and awareness of your workforce. Our training programs empower your employees with the knowledge to recognise and mitigate cybersecurity risks, fostering a culture of vigilance within your organisation.

Active Office Technology is committed to compliance with industry

standards and regulations. We keep abreast of the latest cybersecurity developments, ensuring that your business stays ahead of emerging threats. Our services not only shield you from potential financial losses and reputational damage but also contribute to maintaining trust with your clients and partners.

By choosing Active Office Technology as your cybersecurity partner in Ayrshire, you are investing in the long-term security and success of your business. Our experienced team provides proactive, reliable, and intuitive solutions that safeguard your infrastructure, supporting the growth and innovation of your organisation in an interconnected world.

Break the Silence win the prestigious 2024 Business Excellence Award

Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce are thrilled to announce Break the Silence as the 2024 Business Excellence Award Winner.

The award serves as a testament to Break the Silence's exceptional achievements and its enduring commitment to excellence.

Claire Baird, CEO of Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce said of the win;

“All the finalists demonstrated a culture committed to driving performance and evolving for the future and the judges had a very difficult decision to make.

“Break the Silence having recently been independently accredited by EFQM were able to evidence continuous improvement in all aspects of their service delivery focussing on

direction, execution and results which led them to being worthy winners.

“A huge congratulations go to the team on being crowned the 2024 Business Excellence Award Winner.”

This recognition underscores Break the Silence's unwavering dedication to excellence and its pivotal role in creating a supportive space for those who have suffered child sexual abuse.

Brian McGilvary, head judge of the 2024 Business Excellence award said;

“Our 2024 winner, Break the Silence has displayed great leadership within their business as a whole; this accompanied with their strategic direction has enabled them to deliver positive results for both their client base as well as internally.

“The judges visit to the Break the Silence showcased a highly cohesive team, where they demonstrated the use of modern technology and their staff's attention to detail was pivotal to them being crowed as winners.

“Congratulations again from our judging panel to Break the Silence on winning this prestigious award."

The Business Excellence Award is a prestigious award, hosted by the Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce. The award recognises businesses who demonstrate continuous improvement and commitment to excellence.

With thanks to our 2024 Business Excellence Sponsors: People Puzzles, SAS International, Spirit AeroSystems and UKSE.

Trading internationally?

The fourth quarter of 2023 proved to be a busy one for our International Trade team, with over 600 documents processed.

The team have processed over £29 million worth of goods traveling to and from countries such as Turkey, Saudi Arabia, China, Singapore, UAE, Egypt and many others.

Did you know Ayrshire Chamber can help process your documents!

Our friendly International Trade team are happy to help in any way they can, as well as process Certificates of Origin, EUR1’s, Arab Certificates, Egyptian Documents, Verification of Trade Documents, Import and Export Declarations, Letters of Credit and ATA Carnets.

Our International Trade Services are

International Trade Courses

To assist you in your international trade journey, we also run a number of regular International Trade events to provide you, your business and your staff with the invaluable information to export and import with ease. Each session features a guest expert from Exporter Services.

International Trade Courses from Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce coming up soon:

available to members and non-members. A discount is available to Ayrshire Chamber members. T&Cs apply.

Further details on the International Trade services we offer are available.

Please contact our friendly team via ecert@ayrshire-chamber.org or visit www.ayrshire-chamber.org/ international

International Trade Missions

Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce is proud to be a member of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce Network - a large network which aims to link businesses nationally and internationally, as well as strengthen international opportunities for Scottish businesses like yours.

Through the Scottish Chambers of Commerce, we are a member of the renowned ‘International Chambers of Commerce’ which represents 40 million companies across 100 countries.

The network runs a number of outward and inward International Trade Missions throughout the year.

Trade Missions:

Here to support you –The Chamber 4 Services

All members of Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce can access the helpful Chamber 4 Services - a range of HR, Health & Safety, Tax and Legal support.

The Chamber 4 Services are facilitated by Quest Cover, who are an exclusive recommended partner of the British Chambers of Commerce. Access to the Chamber 4 Services is included in your membership fee. These services can potentially save your business up to £1,500 per year!

“The Ayrshire Chamber has provided us, as a member, invaluable business support during this difficult time. I have found the HR service particularly helpful. There is so much information available online that is all free of charge and readily available to all members.”

The Chamber 4 Services offer everything that a business needs to legally employ staff, including employment contracts and relevant policies.

With over 500 HR documents available to download from their online library, which is available 24 hours a day, members can also call a qualified HR advisor who can help with a range of issues including employment law, disciplinary issues, and redundancy.

The online library also has over 200 downloadable Health & Safety documents, and access to H&S advisors who can assist with completing risk assessments, creating Health & Safety policies, accident reporting and much more.

In addition, there are a further three advice lines manned by in-house specialists covering all legal issues, tax and VAT, which for added peace of mind also come with up to £l million worth of Indemnity cover.

To learn more about The Chamber 4 Services, or any of your Membership services or benefits, please reach out to the team via email Membership@ayrshire-chamber.org or call 01292 678666.

Mentoring –Inspiring Inclusion

When women themselves are inspired to be included, there’s a sense of belonging, relevance and empowerment.” What better way to inspire inclusion than to step forward as a mentor or a mentee.

How can mentoring reduce gender bias and discrimination?

A female mentor can encourage a female mentee to develop their self-belief and confidence and can provide support and guidance having already walked the path to which the mentee aspires. At the same time the power of mentoring is that the mentor will also naturally learn from the mentee. So regardless of whether the mentor is male or female, having a mentee of the other gender, will inspire inclusion through dispelling biases and stereotypes and eliminating inaccurate and persistent perceptions of women.

Women may believe that they are not as capable or driven as their male counterparts, or that they would not be as accepted as their male counterparts. Mentoring can help squash such self-limiting beliefs and can guide individuals to break through their own self-built glass ceilings.

Connect Me mentoring from Ayrshire Chamber has over 50 experienced, knowledgeable mentors ready to help you develop and grow.

We are also recruiting for more female mentors, from all sectors and industries.

If you are ready to take the next step and start your mentoring journey, please reach out to the team via Membership@ayrshire-chamber.org or call 01292 678666.

Green Home Systems celebrate British Chambers Awards

Last year the energy efficiency specialist was named Scottish regional winner of the Planet Saver category, and then went on to face other regional winners from across the UK before claiming the National title in November at the prestigious London Stock Exchange.

The Planet Saver – Green Business of the Year Award is presented to an organisation that has shown sustainability to be at the heart of their business, and who are fully committed to sustainable best practice and making the world a better and safer place.

The British Chamber Awards are regarded as one of the UK’s most contested and prestigious business award programmes, recognising and promoting the best of British business through a series of regional heats culminating in the UK finals.

Steven Easton, Co-founder & Chairman at Green Home Systems, said:

“I am delighted that we have been honoured with such a prestigious award. Sustainability is at the heart of what we do, with our raison d-etre being to help fuel poor families reduce their energy bills and carbon emissions. This award is great recognition for all our hard working staff and the success that we have achieved in our business over recent years.”

Green Home Systems celebrated the win locally in January, with a homecoming celebration at their Irvine HQ, where dignitaries and staff heard about the company’s work to drive forward the UK’s Net-Zero agenda.

The event was attended by VIPs and officials from North Ayrshire Council and Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce, including Provost Anthea Dickson and Councillors Marie Burns and Anthony Gurney, respectively Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Economy, Climate Change & Place, and Claire Baird Ayrshire Chamber CEO.

Two further Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce members we’re also recognised at the 2023 Chamber Business Awards:

Burnhouse Engineering & Fabrication Ltd were Regional Winners of the ‘Problem Solver’ category, which recognises businesses that has transformed the market that they operate in or their product or service in order to gain a strong position in their market.

Lairds of Troon were Regional Winners of the ‘Workforce Developer’ category, which recognises businesses that has shown how their approach to the learning and development of their team has enhanced their business performance.

Ayrshire Chamber is delighted that three of our Chamber Member’s have been recognised in 2023 Chamber Business Awards!

AllNeeds are a long established recruitment and staffing agency, operating predominately in Ayrshire, Glasgow and the Central Belt since 1999. We deal with all aspects of recruitment for a wide variety of skill areas including:

• ALL TRADES AND LABOURERS

• WAREHOUSE/FORK-LIFT

• SUPERVISORY/MANAGERIAL

• ENGINEERING

• PRODUCTION

• HOSPITALITY

• OFFICE/ADMIN STAFF

• CALL CENTRE • SALES • DRIVERS

• IT • CLEANERS • FINANCIAL

We match the right people to the right people

The temporary staff we supply would be employed by AllNeeds, so all Tax, NI, Employers NI, Holiday Pay, Pension Enrolment etc. would be handled by us, leaving you to concentrate on your business. If it is a permanent staff member you are after our prices are extremely competitive and well below the industry average.

AllNeeds Recruitment Co Ltd celebrate twenty five years

DEBBIE Hunter is celebrating a quarter of a century of success with AllNeeds Recruitment....and is certain she has many years left in her!

In an incredible success story, Debbie and her staff have helped find more than 6000 people employment and sourced staff for more than 600 businesses.

She puts the survival and the longevity of her business down to a trust with clients and competitive pricing.

Against a difficult economic backdrop at certain times since the company was formed in April, 1999, Debbie has made sure AllNeeds thrived and maintains that sets them apart from their rivals.

They also survived the two year Covid crisis which speaks volumes for their calmness, organisational skills and forward planning.

Debbie smiled: “I’m very proud of the past 25 years and hope to have a few more years to come.

“There is no secret for our longevity. We simply work hard every day and do our best for our clients.

“And we try to do it with a smile on our faces.

“The personal touch has also been important. We are not corporate. We operate from the heart but with solid business values.

“Our main work has been in Ayrshire and we know that part of the world inside out. We know what is required and who is available.

“Ayrshire will always be the heartbeat of AllNeeds but we are now supplying all over the UK, Dentists and Travel Agents being some of our focus there.

“One of the main things I pride myself on is AllNeeds’ reputation.

“Some of our customers have been with

We are absolutely delighted with the team we hired through AllNeeds. The service from Debbie and her team is superb. They took time to understand who we are as a company and what our values and needs are. They then sent us a great fit of individuals that had both the right experience and the right mindset for our business. No hesitation in recommending AllNeeds to others.

Thanks for all your help.

The fact that I have worked with Debbie and AllNeeds for the past 16 years I think says it all when it comes to the service we receive from herself and her team.

She knows our business and what we look for in quality and ability and so sources us suitable staff whatever the skill set required.

The process is simple and straightforward which makes the running of my business so much easier.

us since the beginning and that’s because of the relationships and trust we have built and earned over the years as well as our extremely competitive pricing.”

So, will Debbie be treating herself to something lavish to celebrate this latest milestone?

She smiled: “I’ve been thinking about this and I might splash out on a new stapler!

“I’ve had mine for 25 years, since the first day we opened. It’s outlasted so many things and is the one constant we’ve had!

“Indeed, my grandson, Dylan, has just started working with us and he reminded me that the stapler is older than him!

“It’s lovely to have Dylan with us. He has a great work ethic and has fitted right in with all the other members of staff.

“We are always looking at ways to improve. It’s important not to stand still and never take your customers for granted.

“Overall, I’d like to thank all of our customers and anyone who has contributed to the success of AllNeeds over the years.

“Truly, it’s much appreciated.”

Wishing you continued success with both AllNeeds and your new ventures in the sun and I look forward to continuing our relationship for many years to come.

Rob Cooper, Site Manager, Origin Fertilisers UK

With the boom and bust of the construction industry we need to take on additional tradesmen quickly to meet deadlines. We turn to recruitment agencies at this time. Debbie is passionate about her business and tries that bit harder for her customers. We have a longstanding relationship with AllNeeds and have had a great deal of success with them over the years. Many of the guys we have taken on a temporary basis, we have then taken on ourselves with full time permanent jobs.

More recently we have recruited permanent office staff. We gave Debbie a remit of what we wanted, she passed us to Dylan who handled the whole process and met with each of the candidates before putting them forward to us. We actually started the first person we interviewed.

AllNeeds are a family business who give their clients a personal service and we would recommend them to any business who need to recruit.

Dougie Mabon,

Managing Director, DM

Homeshield Ltd

Mark Bradford, Director, Andrew Wright Windows

A beacon of innovation: How LPC Design + Print is changing the game

In the ever-evolving landscape of print and design, finding a firm that masters both disciplines is rare. LPC Design + Print stands out as a remarkable exception. Since 1969, LPC Design + Print has offered a broad spectrum of services, including offset, digital, large format, and Garment printing, along with unparalleled design expertise for print and web. LPC Design + Print is a partner dedicated to fostering business growth.

Scott McGregor, second generation owner says;

“What sets us apart is our dedication to exceptional customer service and the values we were founded on: active listening, a deep

understanding of clients’ challenges and aspirations, and the delivery of outcomes that exceed expectations. These principles form the cornerstone of our operations, ensuring a partnership that is deeply committed to client success”.

LPC Design + Print are a treasure trove of expertise. The philosophy is that the success of its clients is its own success, a belief that has always steered its approach. The LPC team excels in navigating the complexities of print and design, offering solutions that are effective and customised to meet each clients unique needs.

Businesses are encouraged to envision the potential of partnering with LPC Design + Print. Embarking on a journey of growth and success together, where visions are fully realised, challenges are addressed with innovative solutions, and goals are achieved with precision and flair. This partnership is an invitation to craft a shared success story.

www.lpcprint.co.uk

Booth Welsh secure SMDH Digital Innovation Funding for Energy Monitoring Dashboard

Booth Welsh is well-established in the digital space, applying innovative technology to their core services for several years. They have an ethos of collaboration over competition and have an open approach to knowledge transfer and sharing their experiences throughout their digital transformation journey.

They have been an integral part of the Powering Futures sustainability programme, working cross-functionally with departments to develop solutions for some of their most pressing environmental challenges. The

collaboration from this project led to the creation of their innovative Energy Monitoring Dashboard. Through their own implementation, Booth Welsh achieved remarkable savings of around 20% by diligently measuring, visualising, and analysing our energy consumption data.

Booth Welsh recently announced their successful application to the Digital Innovation Fund (DIF) Rapid Demonstrator funding. The Made Smarter Innovation – Smart Manufacturing Data Hub (SMDH) launched the funding to assist Manufacturing SMEs on their digital journey.

The SMDH funding is now driving Booth Welsh to launch their Energy Monitoring Dashboard as a

pilot to Ayrshire businesses, to provide clients with valuable data insights and to help drive down their energy costs. Booth Welsh welcome enquiries from businesses who would like more information on how to join the pilot programme.

Booth Welsh is host of the Digital Process Manufacturing Centre in partnership with NMIS, CPI and North Ayrshire Council. The centre will further Booth Welsh’s mission statement of ‘Through Collaboration, We Engineer a Better Future’ by providing an innovative, collaborative space for the development of technology in our industry.

Lean Thinking Unleashed: Igniting innovation for optimal success

In today’s rapidly changing markets, innovation has become an essential driver of growth, competitiveness and sustainability for businesses. It enables organisations to adapt to changing market conditions, meet evolving customer needs and seize new opportunities. However, innovation alone isn’t always enough. When combined with Lean Thinking, it becomes a powerful force that can transform organisations by revolutionising their approach to problem-solving and differentiate themselves from their competitors.

Lean Thinking, derived from the Toyota Production System, is a management philosophy that focuses on eliminating waste, improving efficiency and creating value for

customers. It is centred around the principles of continuous improvement, respect for people, and the relentless pursuit of perfection. When applied to innovation, Lean Thinking provides a powerful framework for organisations to adapt, innovate, and thrive in today’s rapidly changing business landscape.

Both innovation and digital transformation have emerged as crucial strategies for businesses aiming to stay competitive in today’s fast-paced and technology-driven world. These two concepts go hand in hand, as innovation often relies on digital advancements to disrupt existing markets and create new opportunities. However, to truly become market leaders and address the pressing cost of living crisis, organisations must also embrace Lean Thinking alongside innovation and digital transformation.

This powerful combination allows businesses to become more agile, responsive, and customer-centric. It enables them to adapt quickly to changing market conditions, identify new growth opportunities and deliver value to customers in innovative ways. By embracing Lean, innovation and digital transformation, organisations can create a culture of continuous improvement and innovation, fuelling their long-term success in today’s dynamic business environment.

Air conditioning solutions for all seasons

Stewart Temperature Solutions leads the way in installing air conditioning heat pumps, also recognised as air-to-air heat pumps, offering efficient heating and cooling solutions for commercial and domestic properties alike.

Air conditioning heat pumps function by leveraging a refrigeration cycle to transfer heat from one environment to another, making them versatile and eco-friendly. In colder months, they draw warmth from the outdoor air and distribute it indoors, ensuring comfortable temperatures while consuming less energy than conventional heating systems. Stewart Temperature Solutions ensures that this process is seamless and optimised for each property's unique needs.

During warmer seasons, these heat pumps reverse their operation, extracting heat from indoors and releasing it outside, thereby cooling indoor spaces effectively. This dual functionality makes air conditioning heat pumps a valuable investment for regions with varying climates, ensuring year-round comfort without the need for separate heating and cooling systems.

In commercial settings, Stewart Temperature Solutions' installations provide precise temperature control, enhancing employee productivity and customer satisfaction while reducing operational costs. In residences, these systems offer consistent heating and cooling, ensuring comfort and convenience for occupants throughout the year.

In conclusion, Stewart Temperature Solutions sets the standard for installing air conditioning heat pumps, offering efficient and sustainable heating and cooling solutions for both commercial and domestic properties. Their expertise ensures optimal performance, energy savings, and environmental stewardship, making them the preferred choice for temperature control needs.

www.stewart-temp-solutions.com

Building community wealth brick by brick

Hub South West Scotland is part owned by the Scottish Government and Ayrshire’s local authorities, meaning Hub South West are invested in building sustainably, to build community wealth and opportunity for all. Hub South West operate not-for-profit, to ensure that public infrastructure investment delivers a positive social impact.

Central to their business model is to ensure that every building Hub South West deliver creates; jobs, apprenticeships, education, local economic development for suppliers and benefits the wider community.

By working closely with anchor institutions

and their territory partners, to foster economic development, promote local ownership, and enhance community well-being, Hub South West aim to create sustainable and inclusive economic growth, contributing to the Scottish Government’s Wellbeing Economy.

Some examples of Hub South Wests’ positive social impact across Ayrshire include:

• Three-year sponsorship of DEC (Design, Engineer, Construct) classroom learning programme for Marr and Kyle Academy in partnership with South Ayrshire Council

• Build Ayrshire – eight week supplier development programme with 1-2-1 meet the buyer opportunities for local SME’s

• Focus on retaining local spend through our procurement, with £115,568,939 supply chain spend retained in Ayrshire through hub SW.

• Job creation, with over 468 new jobs created through hub SW projects in Ayrshire and 165 new apprenticeships

Through strategic partnerships and innovative programs across their construction projects, Hub South West build community wealth with each brick.

Later in the year Hub South West will be running their supplier development ‘Build Ayrshire’ programme – places will be limited, to register your interest in advance visit www.hubsouthwestscotland.co.uk

20 years in business for Moir Environmental Ltd

November 2023 marked 20 years in business for Moir Environmental Ltd, a sector leading sewage treatment and drainage specialist. Based in Ayr the business operates all over Scotland as well as assisting businesses and communities across Ayrshire.

Moir Environmental Ltd is a family business owned by Director, Stewart Moir who heads up the professional consultancy and design work. Wife and Office Manager, Shazia Moir, handles the daily office management, while reporting of the on-site maintenance works is carried out by their Field Engineer, Shaun McDowall.

Stewart recalls that;

“The business began as a consultancy and design practice but over the last 20 years we have evolved into providing flexible turnkey services to our clients so that we now regularly provide for the supply, installation & commissioning of the systems we design”.

In addition, Moir Environmental Ltd offer ongoing maintenance of their treatment systems.

“Our clients know that they are getting first class independent advice and high-quality workmanship at all stages of their project. We can help our clients from conception right through to commissioning and beyond for years to come. We have always been at the forefront of designing passive sewage treatment systems such as reedbeds and wetlands. More recently we are focusing on reducing the energy consumption of all the

system types we design. We have also started our own carbon auditing planning on our journey towards net zero.”

In October last year Moir Environmental were recognised for their achievements as finalists in the ‘Driving Sustainability’ category at the Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce Business Awards 2023.

www.moir-environmental.co.uk

Ayrshire Business Week is BACK!

Ayrshire Chamber is delighted to announce that Ayrshire Business Week is back and will run from Monday 30th September – Friday 4th October 2024.

Ayrshire Business Week provides businesses and organisations with excellent opportunities to make new business connections and celebrate their achievements.

The week will be packed with engaging events, from the very popular B2B Exhibition on Wednesday 2nd October at the Park Hotel in Kilmarnock to the Ayrshire Business Awards Dinner 2024, making a return to Ayr Racecourse on Friday 4th October.

The Ayrshire Business Awards is established as the leading awards ceremony for Ayrshire business and is a highlight of the business calendar.

Attracting high profile industry support and involvement, the awards offer Ayrshire businesses the opportunity to promote major achievements and celebrate success.

We are delighted to announce Business Gateway as our Principal Sponsor for this

year’s awards dinner and Rainton Construction as Supporting Sponsor. We are excited to welcome back the incredibly talented magician and presenter, Ben Hanlin, who will be our host for the evening, bringing his unique magic to the event once again.

Applications for this year’s business awards will launch week commencing 15th April. Below, you will find the list of categories available.

AYRSHIRE BUSINESS AWARD SPONSORED BY

Apprentice of the Year Award Ashleigh (Scotland) Ltd

Ayrshire’s Growth Business of the Year Award (0-10 employees)

Ayrshire’s Growth Business of the Year Award (11-50 employees)

Ayrshire’s Growth Business of the Year Award (51 or more employees)

Woodward Inc.

Business Gateway

James Frew Ltd

Charity of the Year Award Regency Facilities Management

Community Award GlaxoSmithKline (GSK)

Community Wealth Building Award Booth Welsh

Developing Ayrshire’s Young Workforce Award

Developing the Young Workforce Ayrshire

Driving Sustainability HALO

Entrepreneur of the Year Award

Innovation Award

William Duncan Accountants

Sponsorship opportunity available

Going Global International Trade Business of the Year Neogen

Hospitality Business of the Year Award

Start-up Business of the Year Award

Tourism Award

Workplace Health and Wellbeing Award

Trump Turnberry

Sponsorship opportunity available

Stagecoach

Lighthouse IT and Network Solutions

For further information on sponsorship or any aspect of Ayrshire Business Week 2024 please contact Danielle McPherson on 01292 678666 or dmcpherson@ayrshire-chamber.org

Mark your calendars and get ready to immerse in a week of inspiration, celebrations, connections and growth.

The crucial link between emotional intelligence and workplace safety

Emotional intelligence (EQ) plays a pivotal role in safety within diverse settings, spanning the workplace, personal life, and broader society. This article explores the intricate relationship between emotional intelligence and safety, highlighting its impact on risk perception, communication, decision-making, adaptability, and responses to unforeseen events. It also delves into EQ assessment methods and strategies for instilling emotional intelligence within the corporate culture, with a particular focus on Occupational Safety and Health professionals.

EQ, encompassing self-awareness and empathy, enhances risk perception. Those with high EQ are more attuned to emotional cues, making them adept at recognizing potential

dangers and taking preventive measures.

High EQ individuals excel in clear and empathetic communication. Their ability to convey safety-related information reduces the risk of accidents caused by misunderstandings.

Emotional intelligence guides rational

decision-making, especially in high-pressure situations, where safety conflicts with external pressures.

High EQ individuals exhibit adaptability and resilience in adversity, crucial for safety in challenging conditions.

Exceeding Safety Standards Ltd uses a specialised tool called the Emotional Quotient Inventory (EQ-i 2.0) to assess EQ. We also work with OSH professionals to enhance EQ through workshops, coaching, and assessments.

In conclusion, emotional intelligence is intricately linked to safety. Developing EQ enhances risk perception, communication, decision-making, adaptability, and responses to adversity. As OSH professionals and organisations embrace EQ, they pave the way for a more emotionally intelligent and safetyconscious future.

www.exceedingsafetystandards.com

Revolutionising paper processes for a sustainable future

Green Home Systems, established in 2014 and has grown over the last decade to become Scotland’s leading energy efficiency installer. With a commitment to prioritising low carbon solutions, the company has engaged in discussions with fellow chamber member Document Data Group to enhance its paperwork processes.

Critical to their sales process is the completion of risk assessments before installation. However, the reliance on paper forms, especially the practice of traveling to

the office on a Friday afternoon to submit the forms from that week, was not aligning with the companies’ environmental objectives. Additionally, the office team faced challenges in processing the paperwork promptly and translating the assessment data into customer reports.

Fellow chamber member, Document Data Group specialise in Document Management Solutions aimed at optimising paper processes. DDG worked with Green Home Systems to transform their paper-based process into an electronic one. What was once a timeconsuming task has been revolutionialised into an efficient operation aligning perfectly with Greem Home Systems core value of seeking low carbon solutions for their business.

Now Green Home Systems team completes risk assessments using tablets with data instantly transmitted to the office upon job completion. This streamlined approach allows for swift handling of high risk scenarios and immediate generation and delivery of customer reports, eliminating the double keying of information.

In an era where efficiency is paramount, the transition from paper forms to electronic ones signifies not just a modernisation but a step towards a more sustainable and streamlined future for businesses.

www.documentdatagroup.com

WELCOME FROM DYW AYRSHIRE’S NEW CHAIR, MIKE STEWART

Lorna handed the DYW Chair’s baton over to me at the end of last year. It seems such a short time ago and here we are already looking forward to the start of spring. Hopefully someone has reminded the weather gods.

The DYW Ayrshire team are looking forward to what is likely to be both a challenging and exciting year ahead. We find ourselves again facing uncertainties around government funding, which is concerning all of us and the wider DYW teams across Scotland. In a recent open and frank meeting with Graeme Dey, MSP & Minister for Higher & Further Education, Mr

Dey emphasised the value he personally places on what the DYW network does to support young people nationally and understood our concerns regarding funding for the coming financial year, which he hoped would be settled quickly. He also emphasised his desire to work closely with us to resolve the current issues and build further on the successes of DYW for the future. It will be interesting to see how this develops.

Locally, there are so many exciting and inventive DYW supported projects continuing to be being developed across Ayrshire. I had the pleasure of attending the opening of a number of our school

INNOVATIVE SCHOOL PROJECTS

DYW Ayrshire's Innovative School Projects bridge the gap between education and work, equipping students with realworld skills in thriving sectors like construction, digital media, and early years.

projects last year, and I am really looking forward to the first of hopefully many new and innovative such projects this year with the opening of the Southcraig School’s Gardening Group and Sunshine Café in March.

I really encourage all Ayrshire employers to please get involved and support DYW. You can really make a difference to the future of our young people.

Thank you.

Mike Stewart, DYW Ayrshire Chair

Your involvement makes a difference. By partnering with us, you can:

• Shape future talent: Get involved in project development, offering expertise and mentoring opportunities.

• Source skilled employees: Gain early access to a pipeline of motivated young people with industry-relevant skills and certifications.

• Boost your brand: Showcase your commitment to community investment and workforce development.

Contact DYW Ayrshire to explore how you can invest in tomorrow's workforce, today: info@dywayrshire.com

THE YOUNG PERSON’S GUARANTEE -

YOUNG PEOPLE'S FUTURE, YOUR SUCCESS

The Young Person's Guarantee is a commitment to connect every 16 to 24 year old in Scotland to an opportunity. As employers and partners, you play a vital role in creating opportunities for young people as they prepare for and take their first steps into the world of work.

We’re asking you to pledge support in ways that not only benefit the young people of Scotland but benefit your business too. You can build a workforce with the right skills and experience now and in the future.

The

Scan to unlock opportunities - jobs, training, and more - for young Scots and your business.

WALLACE MCDOWALL IS PROUDLY PART OF THE #YPGUARANTEE

Wallace McDowall recognises the immense value in cultivating a young workforce for several compelling reasons.

Firstly, youthful employees bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and adaptation to evolving technologies.

Their digital proficiency enhances our technological capabilities, propelling us into the future of smart manufacturing. Moreover,

investing in the professional growth of young talent ensures a sustainable pipeline of skilled workers, addressing long-term succession planning. By nurturing a diverse and dynamic youth, fostering vibrant work environments that fuels creativity and resilience. Ultimately, embracing a young workforce positions Wallace McDowall at the forefront of industry innovation and competitiveness.

Graeme Watson, Wallace McDowall

THISTLE HELP WORK PLACEMENT WORK EXPERIENCE

As a local employer in Ayrshire and having a Managing Director with Cerebral Palsy, we wanted to support the local ASN schools and give some pupils the opportunity to gain work experience and taster sessions. George our M.D. didn’t get the opportunity when he was at school to gain experience and therefore wanted to give others the chance that he didn’t have. Working closely with DYW and Southcraigs School in Ayr, in January we arranged for 2 pupils to come along to our Irvine premises to work alongside Andrew our Warehouse Operative. The pupils thoroughly enjoyed their experience and assisted Andrew to open deliveries and build the mobility scooters and wheelchairs. This gave the pupils an insight into working in a realistic warehouse environment. We hope to do this again in the near future to give more pupils the opportunity.

Laura Hays, Thistle Help

SEASCAPE’S FLEXIBLE PLACEMENT

It has been an absolute pleasure having Katie here at SeAscape every Tuesday. She is a huge help with our Pass It On Project administration and efficiently delivers her work to a high standard. She has a quietly confident nature and engages positively with all of the team. The project is exceptionally busy, and she has been an asset in ensuring the delivery and collection sheets are ready for our van team. We look forward to continuing to work with Katie and know that she will be successful in her future endeavours, including university and beyond.

Beverly Campbell, SeAscape

DYW ACTIVITIES

BECOME A STEM AMBASSADOR

Did you know that there are 5,000 STEM Ambassadors across Scotland? If you work in any form of STEM related role, including a role out with the typical STEM environment, then you could join the community to help inspire young people in the STEM subjects across:

• Early Learning and Childcare settings

• Primary schools/Secondary schools/Colleges

• Community and Youth groups

Delivered by SSERC, the programme will give you access to training and resources to boost your CPD, confidence, knowledge, self-esteem and more whilst giving back to your local community.

What does a STEM Ambassador do?

STEM Ambassadors can:

Volunteer in person and/or online

Work directly with young people

Work with teachers or community workers

Create resources or use others

Volunteer through their company

Volunteer through their own networks

To inspire young people in the STEM subjects

To find out more or register as a STEM Ambassador, contact – info@dywayrshire.com

MY FASHION PATH WITH ALEX BEGG

Alex Begg partnered with Ayr Academy to deliver the DYW My Fashion Path project where S3 Textile pupils initially visited the Production and Design Studio and heard about sustainability in the business. They were then set a brief and provided scrap materials to design and produce a new product. Students presented their mood board and finished creation to the business with prizes awarded to the winners.

Coral Dalgleish, Design Manager said, It is important to me within an Ayrshire business to keep creativity alive within our schools. Creating these live project briefs between industry and schools is key in showcasing the types of creative jobs that could be available to students in the future, but also inspires them creatively today.

Charlotte Harrop, People and Culture Manager added,

At Alex Begg we were thrilled with the opportunity to partner with Ayr Academy as it not only allowed us to welcome young talent into the business for a mill tour and to showcase the fantastic career opportunities and craftsmanship in our product, we too were able to go to their school environment and see the creativity in their design process for the project that was assigned to the students.

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SCHOOL ENGAGEMENT

CREATIVE PATHWAYS EXPLORED: AYRSHIRE COLLEGE'S EVENT SHOWCASES CAREER POSSIBILITIES

In partnership with DYW/Ayrshire Chamber, Ayrshire College successfully hosted the Creative Careers Event on 9 November 2023. The event welcomed 77 senior phase pupils and their teachers, eager to explore diverse career pathways within the creative industries.

Participants engaged in a variety of workshops covering Art, Design, Media, Music, Sound Production, and Performing Arts. These sessions offered hands-on experiences, fostering curiosity, and providing insights into how a college education can shape future careers. The event aimed to demystify the transition to further education

and highlight the support available for aspiring creatives.

The partnership between DYW, the Chamber and college staff played a crucial role in ensuring the event ran smoothly and made a meaningful impact, with the positive feedback from teachers and pupils serving as a testament to its success.

Recognising the importance of this initiative, the College and the Chamber/ DYW are committed to establishing the Creative Careers Event as an annual highlight, celebrating the rich potential within creative careers.

Angela Sheridan, Ayrshire College

UWS TASTER DAY: S3/4 STUDENTS GET A HANDS-ON GLIMPSE INTO UNIVERSITY LIFE

In November 2023, over 120 S3/4 pupils from Ayrshire schools got a taste of university life at the University of the West of Scotland (UWS) Taster Day, held at the Ayr Campus. The event, a collaboration between the UWS Student Recruitment Team, Ayrshire Chamber, and DYW, proved to be a resounding success, sparking excitement, and informing young minds about their future academic possibilities.

Throughout the day, students participated in engaging workshops led by enthusiastic UWS staff. From delving into the world of sports science to exploring the intricacies of nursing and the thrill of broadcast production, the diverse offerings showcased the vast academic landscape available at UWS.

With three interactive sessions spread across the morning and afternoon we ensured every pupil had the opportunity to explore different subject areas. This immersive experience provided valuable insights into university life, helping students make informed decisions about their future paths.

The UWS Taster Day was about fostering connections and creating a positive memory of university life. The event’s success is a testament to the collaborative efforts of all involved, and it undoubtedly left a lasting impression on the students. With newfound knowledge and curiosity, they are now better equipped to navigate their academic journeys and make informed choices about their futures.

UWS Marketing & Communications

‘Let’s see what we can do to improve things’

This was the mantra of Watermiser founder Morris Somerville when he formed the company back in the early 70s, and it continues to be at the heart of Watermiser’s approach to the design of innovative water cooling solutions and Cooling Towers to this day.

At that time, the UK industry commonly used Cooling Towers for process water cooling, albeit they were generally manufactured in coated or stainless steel panels – materials which had relatively low life-span and construction method which tended to allow bacteria growth.

In response to these problems, and in somewhat of a leap at the time, Watermiser began to use Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) to manufacture their Cooling Towers. Designed and manufactured as ‘one piece’, this removed the need for fixings and on-site assembly, hence reducing ‘nooks and crannies’ for bacterial growth. Plus, GRP resin was impervious to chemical attack - it’s smooth finish made it even more difficult for bacteria to settle and GRP’s ability to withstand harsh chemicals increased life-span considerably. So much so that Watermiser offer a Lifetime Guarantee on structural integrity – the GRP towers generally outlive their steel towers counterparts five or six times over!

But Watermiser’s sustainability innovations don’t stop there. As the name suggests, the Watermiser Cooling Tower was developed to minimize the water losses associated with evaporative cooling and the introduction of High efficiency Drift Eliminators reduces the percentage of drift loss through the top of the tower to less than 0.001% resulting in very significant savings in water consumption.

More recently, and again with sustainability in mind, high efficiency fan motors together with the latest Invertor control technology, integrated with our Clients’ Building Management Systems, the Towers can be automatically controlled, eliminating unnecessary operation and minimizing power consumption.

In-house, Watermiser is also tackling waste reduction, overcoming the common misconception that the GRP industry is messy and wasteful. The reuse of chemicals used in daily cleaning and preparation of laminating equipment plus the development of a recycling system for GRP off-cuts, will see further reductions in material usage in the near future.

Collaboration

The blend of Watermiser’s technical knowhow in terms of hydraulics, heat transfer and controls, (critical aspects of the product makeup), dovetails perfectly with sister company Dustacco’s experience of design, manufacture and installation of structural steelwork, access metalwork and pipework, which themselves often form part of an overall industrial cooling project.

Through collaboration with Dustacco, Watermiser offers a complete turn-key service, from design, manufacture and installation of the bespoke cooling tower itself, to support steelwork, pipework and access metalwork – all designed, manufactured and installed in-house.

Although routinely operating in somewhat of a different landscape to Watermiser, the

spirit of innovation also runs through the heart of Dustacco. As early adopters of 3D modelling some 20 years ago, Dustacco invested heavily in the design function and today, their highly skilled team of Design Engineers use the latest technology, including laser-scanning and a range of 3D modelling packages, to meet the demands of various downstream manufacturing processes and client requirements (including BIM compatibility and integration with a Common Data Environment).

However, innovation is not confined to investments in software, hardware and training - vital though these are; Dustacco’s approach to product / service delivery, whereby the Design Team plays a key role from inception through to handover, is just one of their distinguishing features.

Martin Clark, Project Delivery Director, sums it up: “It’s Dustacco and Watermiser’s designled approach, along with our over-arching culture of excellence, professional curiosity and continuous improvement which sets us both apart from others in our fields.”

Please visit www.watermiser.co.uk to find out more.

A recent tower installation in London

Water Cooling Towers

Adiabatic & Dry Air

Coolers

Servicing & spares

Ancillary equipment

– pipework & access metalwork

Mechanical engineering design

3D laser scanning & modelling

Pipework systems

Structural steelwork & access metalwork

Mechanical & rotating equipment

Renewable Energy - Grants & Funding

In 2024, the Energy Savings Trust and the UK government are championing the transition to renewable energy with a range of grants and funding specifically tailored for Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHPs), Solar PV Panels, and Battery Storage Systems. Here’s how they’re supporting these technologies:

ASHP Grants:

From £7,500 to £9,000. Homeowners looking to embrace sustainable heating solutions can benefit from generous grants covering a significant portion of the installation costs for ASHPs. These pumps extract heat from the ambient air, providing efficient heating and hot water solutions while reducing carbon emissions. The grants provided aim to make ASHP installations more accessible and affordable for households across the UK.

The scheme offers grants of up to £9,000 (depending on location) and interest-free loans of up to £38,500.

Solar PV Panel Funding Grants:

Up to £1,250. Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels continue to be a cornerstone of renewable energy generation. Grants and funding schemes in 2024 incentivise the installation of solar panels on residential and commercial properties. Homeowners can tap into these resources to offset upfront costs and transition to clean, solar-powered electricity generation, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering energy bills in the long term.

Battery Storage System Support:

Up to £1,250. Recognising the importance of energy storage in optimising renewable energy utilisation, funding initiatives in 2024

extend support to battery storage systems. Homeowners and businesses integrating battery storage with their renewable energy systems, such as solar PV panels, can access financial assistance to invest in these technologies. Battery storage systems enhance energy independence, allowing users to store excess energy for use during peak demand periods or when renewable generation is low.

0% Finance Government Loans are also available for a maximum pay-back period of 12 years.

By targeting grants and funding specifically towards ASHPs, Solar PV Panels, and Battery Storage Systems, the Energy Savings Trust and the UK government are empowering individuals and businesses to embrace renewable energy technologies, driving towards a greener, more sustainable future.

Please contact Infinite Renewable Energy Systems Limited for further details on 01563 401272.

A.Vogel celebrates founder, Alfred Vogel

Irvine based A.Vogel, a producer of herbal medicines, food supplements and natural food products, is celebrating 100 years since naturopathic pioneer and company founder Alfred Vogel opened his first health food store in Basel, Switzerland. Today, A.Vogel is one of the leading manufacturers of medicinal products from freshly harvested plants in the world and their products are available in more than 20 countries. The company grow most of their herbs on their organic farm in Switzerland where their HQ is based.

To celebrate this momentous year, the company looks back at what principles Alfred Vogel set for A.Vogel and the relevance they now hold. Today more than ever, A.Vogel products have to meet the highest of standards – both in terms of efficacy and safety, as well as in terms of controlled organic cultivation of

medicinal plants and production of medicinal products. Alfred Vogel maintained that complete effectiveness was only contained in fresh plants. Observation and many conversations with his patients all those years ago backed up this theory that preparations made from fresh plants have a better and broader effect than those made from dried plants. For this reason, A.Vogel produces most of their remedies this way to this day, and Alfred Vogel’s thinking has been proven with their own analytical investigations and in vitro tests.

Alfred Vogel’s love of nature is also something A.Vogel holds on to dearly today. The staff at the Irvine base have worked together to create their own biodiversity garden for staff and wildlife to enjoy. It includes an array of plants, a pond and insect hotel, some raised flower beds and benches to rest at and take it all in.

www.avogel.co.uk