Your Business Spring 2021

spring 2021 £3

the magazine of Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce and Industry

INSIDE: Sustainable Development Event

page 2

Countdown to COP26

page 5

PLATINUM PARTNERS 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.................................... Frank Gormanley Chief Executive.............................. Valerie Russell Development Manager...................Helen McBride

MAGAZINE

Ayrshire Chamber wishes to acknowledge the support of the following companies as sponsors of our Platinum Partners programme.

The Chamber in Ayrshire represents businesses of all sizes and all sectors and is particularly effective in representing the voice of businesses at local, national and international level.

The Partnership aims to cement the relationship that companies have with Ayrshire Chamber, making sure they get the most out of membership and in turn contributing to the work of the Chamber, so supporting other business in Ayrshire.

Partnership members have access to a comprehensive package of benefits, while at the same time assist with the development of the Chamber movement.

If you would like to discuss the mutual benefits of becoming a Partner for Business please contact Helen McBride our Business Development Manager.

Editorial........... aclayton@ayrshire-chamber.org Ad Sales............lstewart@ayrshire-chamber.org Design/Typesetting........advertisingworks.co.uk Print/Distribution.......................brown-bros.com An Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce & Industry publication. No part of this magazine may be copied, scanned or reproduced without the express permission of the Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce. The views expressed in editorial and/or advertising in "Your Business" are not necessarily those of the Editorial Committee of Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce & Industry. Articles submitted for publication will be considered at the Committee's discretion and may be subject to editing. Publication is not guaranteed.

Event Sponsorship Opportunities with Ayrshire Chamber

Our events are are seen to be the go-to places to listen to keynote Our events seen toone beofone of the go-to places tospeakers, listen to share knowledge and best practice and of course grow business connections. keynote speakers, share knowledge and best practice and of With COVID 19, we are all working in a different environment with events moving course grow business connections. to virtual platforms, and during this challenging year, Ayrshire Chamber have offered successful webinars, virtual networking meetings and our Business Exhibition.

With COVID 19, we are all working in a different environment with events Here is what our members say… moving Ann to virtual platforms, and during this challenging year, Ayrshire Chamber Cromack, Ikat Design and Photography "The new Chamber zoom networking sessions continue to be very valuable, I have made many successful connections with local businesses have offered successful webinars, virtual networking meetings and our at these events, for me they are a terrific source for new photographic work".

Business Exhibition.

Claire Donnelly, Shire Housing Association “The wide range of events offered by the Chamber have allowed me to dip into various topics and gain insight from differing sectors to use in my own workplace. I particularly enjoy the open discussion at the Bank of England Panels.

Interested to find out more?

EmailWith Yvonne Munro,you Events co-ordinator Sponsorship, gain opportunities to… yvonne@ayrshire-chamber.org

CHAMBER EVENTSDiary

Although our normal events diary is currently postponed, we are still providing opportunities for networking, training and business support online. To keep up to date with what we have coming up make sure to regularly check our events page at www.ayrshire-chamber.org/events If you have any topic suggestions or there is something you have a particular interest in, please email yvonne@ayrshire-chamber.org

RAISE BRAND AWARENESS: Educate the Marketplace, Achieve Measurable Results A sponsored webinar/event will allow multiple opportunities to build brand awareness through email campaigns, social media and the event itself.

SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT AND CLIMATE CHANGE POST COVID-19 EVENT SPONSORSHIP PACKAGE INCLUDES:

LOGO ON ALL MARKETING MATERIAL LOGO INCLUDED ON EVENTS WEB PAGE INFORMATION ABOUT SPONSOR ON REGISTRATION PAGE SOCIAL MEDIA ADVERTISING (on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram)

Ayrshire Chamber are hosting Office. This project is a UK audit AND AT THE EVENT: a round table discussion on of nationwide perspectives and SPONSORS LOGO ADDED TO ZOOM BACKDROP SPONSORS SPEAKER SLOT ON THE EVENT sustainable development & climate capabilities, gathering views COST: From £150 VAT regional and change post COVID-19.

The event on plus how local, Interested to find more? Park, is in partnership withoutWilton devolved UK-wide expertise and Email Yvonne Munro, Events co-ordinator yvonne@ayrshire-chamber.org who are representing the Foreign, insights into global sustainable Commonwealth & Development development and efforts to halt

climate change might be more effectively understood and engaged at national level. The session will be chaired by Chamber Director, Steven Easton, MD, Green Home Systems Ltd on March 24th at 10am.

If you are interested in joining this session, please email yvonne@ayrshire-chamber.org

BUILDING A GREEN AYRSHIRE As recently as January 2021, in the backdrop of the Covid-19 global pandemic, the UN Development Programme (UNDP) questioned 1.2 million people across 50 countries in the largest ever climate-related survey. Two-thirds of those surveyed think climate change is a global emergency – suggesting a clear political mandate to take the major action needed.

Importantly, the link between climate action and business success is being recognised at the highest political levels. The Biden-lead US administration, in re-joining of the Paris Agreement, has identified two fundamentals in meeting the climate challenge – the need to embrace greater ambition and epic scale to meet the challenge and that the environment and economy are completely and totally interconnected.

The majority of leaders across businesses of all scales understand the necessity of a sustainability strategy in being competitive today and in support of long-term value creation. Beyond simple business survival and compliance, leaders are seeing sustainability as a competitive advantage.

Sustainability as a business driver is no longer just the concerns of big businesses. The emerging benefits to SME’s outweigh the administrative and financial burdens. Integrating sustainability into business strategy can see benefits from lower costs, reduced risk, and new business opportunities.

Accounting for over 95% of all businesses and for the majority of private sector GDP, wealth and employment creation, SMEs are crucially important to the health and stability of the global economy.

So, what can we in Ayrshire do to play our part?

Simple actions to promote energy efficiency, improve waste management and changes to the way we travel will help reduce our Carbon Footprint. This may include switching to LED lighting; switching off appliances at the end of the day; going paperless as much as possible; recycling waste; cycling to work; car sharing (when we are allowed) and so on.

We are proud to be hosting a round table event on sustainable development & climate change post COVID-19 on 24th March. See page 2 for more details. There are new initiatives and Grants which may be available to help us all build a greener and more sustainable Ayrshire. Visit our website to keep up to date with news of these as we get them.

The Kickstart Scheme aims to create hundreds of thousands of high quality 6-month work placements aimed at those aged 16-24 who are on Universal Credit and are deemed to be at risk of long term unemployment.

Businesses can apply for a Government Kickstart Grant that will pay the National Minimum Wage for these young people for 25 hours a week in return for offering a 6-month placement.

As a recognised gateway organisation for the scheme, Ayrshire Chamber can help your business access the scheme by acting as a representative on your behalf and have already successfully applied for placements. We have first-hand knowledge of the procedures and what is required and also offer additional support for both the Young Person and the business once they have started work with access to employability skills and training. If you are interested in finding out more or want to apply, please contact us at enquiries@ayrshire-chamber.org and we’ll be in touch.

VAL RUSSELL Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce CEO

Scotland’s Routemap At the time of writing we, like all of you, are waiting for clarity from the Scottish Government on the Routemap out of lockdown. Until businesses are given more information and guidance on how and when they can re-open, we will continue to lobby on your behalf for both practical and financial support for all our wonderful Ayrshire businesses. The Chamber network in Scotland and across the whole of the UK are still pushing hard to fill the gaps in the current offering. If you have specific concerns that you would like to bring to our attention, please get in touch via email to enquiries@ayrshire-chamber.org

Ayrshire Chamber is a gateway organisation for The Kickstart Scheme

3 YOUR BUSINESS | SPRING 2021

CEO'S WELCOME

MEMBERS NEWS

GREEN ENERGY BUSINESS GEARS UP FOR GROWTH Energy efficiency specialist, Green Home Systems, is preparing for a period of rapid growth. On the back of heightened awareness and activity in the green economy, and to meet the increased demand for its services, the company has expanded to new larger premises in Irvine and made significant investment in its staff and facilities.

Green Home Systems’ mission is to eradicate fuel poverty and end climate change by making communities energy efficient and carbon neutral. It does this by installing thermal insulation, smart heating systems, renewable technologies, and electric vehicle charge points in properties throughout Scotland, and it works alongside

national utility companies to help them meet their energy efficiency targets.

The green energy business was established in 2014 and to date has installed over 10,000 energy efficiency measures, lifted 7,000 households out of fuel poverty and prevented more than 500,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide from being emitted into the atmosphere. It is able to offer Whole House Retrofit which is a complete approach to making homes more energy efficient by mapping out a journey for each property that includes strategies for improving insulation, ventilation and heating efficiency.

The company recently bolstered its senior management team with two new appointments: Alastair Macphie as Finance Director and Steven Porch as Operations Director. Managing Director, Steven Easton, said, “I am delighted with the appointment

of Alastair and Steven. They both bring considerable experience for the development of a fast-growing business and will play a key role as we expand across the UK. Our relocation to Irvine along with significant investment in the business has created a strong platform for us to grow, and we look forward to meeting the dual challenge of climate change and fuel poverty.”

“One of our main barriers to growth has been the lack of applicable green energy skills in the wider economy, and to address this we are launching the Green Home Skills Academy which will allow us to expand our workforce by offering structured training alongside workplace experience. This will make us ideally placed to attract new recruits from out with the industry who are seeking to start a new career in the green economy.”

Creating green homes for a green future

YOUR BUSINESS | SPRING 2021

Thermal insulation Smart heating Renewables Electric vehicle charging

4

0800 783 3373 www.greenhomesystems.co.uk

COUNTDOWN TO COP26 – THE CLOCK IS TICKING ON CLIMATE ACTION

£20,000 GRANTS AVAILABLE TO HELP AYRSHIRE BUSINESSES CUT ENERGY BILLS

In November Glasgow will host the UK’s largest ever international summit. With over 30,000 delegates taking part, the 26th UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26) will see political leaders, climate experts, campaigners and government officials from across the globe agree coordinated action to tackle climate change.

Ayrshire businesses could receive up to £20,000 to introduce energy-saving measures.

A key discussion topic for the conference will be the urgency of moving towards a global zerocarbon economy and to demonstrate how countries, organisations, and individuals alike can adapt to climate change by making the transition. In addition to the negotiations, countries, international organisations, and other delegates will get the opportunity to share knowledge, highlight diverse climate change issues, and display their own actions towards climate change.

There are multiple ways to get involved, whether directly attending the conference as a representative, or working on tackling climate change closer to home, and in the run up to the summit, organisations, civil society groups, schools and individuals across the UK are being urged to take initiatives towards tackling climate change in their local areas. Businesses are being encouraged to join in the #RacetoZero campaign, an initiative of science-based targets to support regions, cities, businesses, and investors to achieve net zero emissions by 2050 at the latest.

COP26 will provide an excellent forum for Scotland to demonstrate its green credentials on the world stage and Ayrshire Chamber intends to use it as a platform to develop and support green initiatives and awareness throughout Ayrshire, including hosting our very own Ayrshire COP26. If you would like to get involved or have an event proposal please contact us or Ayrshire Chamber Board Member, Steven Easton via enquiries@ayrshire-chamber.org

Zero Waste Scotland’s Energy Efficiency Business Support Service offers free and impartial advice to small and medium-sized organisations (SMEs) to help them cut their energy bills and reduce their carbon emissions.

The service also provides access to the Scottish Government’s SME Loan Scheme, which is now available interest-free with up to 75 per cent cashback thanks to an injection of £4m. The loan is administered by Energy Saving Trust.

Iain Gulland, chief executive of Zero Waste Scotland, said: “It is vital, particularly at the present time, for businesses to make the most of every penny they spend. Cutting down on energy use could make a positive difference to many organisations’ bottom line and it will also help in reducing their carbon footprint.

“The amount of funding is limited, so I would urge eligible businesses to get in touch and see what we could do for them.”

The SME Loan can be used for the installation of renewable heating systems, such as solar, heat pumps and biomass, and many energy efficiency measures, including heating, ventilation, air conditioning and building fabric.

SMEs are able to apply for an interest-free loan and receive a

IAIN GULLAND Zero Waste Scotland CEO

75 per cent cashback grant of up to £10,000 towards the cost of a renewable heating system. They can also receive a further 30 per cent cashback grant, also up to £10,000, for other energy efficiency improvements.

With the support of the Energy Efficiency Business Support Service, more than 400 businesses have been helped with identified savings of £3,800,000 and 8,200 tonnes of CO2 emissions, the equivalent of 1,700 cars being driven for a year.

Businesses should contact the Energy Efficiency Business Support Service for a free energy assessment and advice about applying for a loan.

Visit www.energy. zerowastescotland.org.uk.

Alternatively, contact their advisors by calling 0808 808 2268 or emailing EnergyEfficiency@ zerowastescotland.org.uk

5 YOUR BUSINESS | SPRING 2021

CHAMBER NEWS

CHAMBER NEWS

CHAMBER SUPPORTS AYRSHIRE BUSINESSES On 9th February, Ayrshire Chamber members were invited to attend a virtual round table with Scottish Conservative Leader Douglas Ross MP to discuss the VAT Reverse Charge, hosted by our colleagues at the Scottish Chambers of Commerce.

The domestic reverse charge (referred to as the reverse charge) is a major change to the way VAT is collected in the building and construction industry. Originally due to come into effect in October 2020, this was postponed until 1 March 2021 and now means the customer receiving the service will have to pay the VAT due to HMRC instead of paying the supplier.

Ayrshire Chamber and SCC supports the position of other associations who have already raised this issue with the UK Government, and we asked that this decision be reversed.

Alternatively, its implementation date of March 2021 to be postponed by a minimum of 12 months in recognition of the significant impact that the coronavirus has had to the construction sector. At the time of writing, this matter is ongoing.

For more information, please contact our Development manager Helen via hmcbride@ayrshire-chamber.org

The effects of Brexit are continuing to be felt by many businesses, especially getting to grips with the customs paperwork which may now be required. Under the Government staged approach to postponing VAT on imports between 1st January and 30th June, VAT registered traders may be receiving standard (noncontrolled) goods from the EU post Brexit without completing any paperwork.

From July, HMRC will be checking retrospectively to ensure imports have the correct paperwork, particularly in relation to deferred VAT payments and you may need to complete an import declaration. If you think this may apply to your business, please contact us at chambercustoms@ayrshire-chamber.org More details on business import VAT requirements can be found at https://www.gov.uk/guidance/check-when-you-can-account-for-importvat-on-your-vat-return It was great to see Ayrshire Business Women holding their first virtual AGM in February. Four new members were inducted onto the Committee, and Tamara Campbell was named President for this year.

The new Committee have exciting plans for re-invigorating the Association in 2021, and will be focussed on delivering affordable, value-for-money benefits to Members. Indeed, our Women in Business event to celebrate International Women’s Day on 8th March with Investing Women and AccelerateHER was part of those plans and we look forward to hearing about more of their upcoming activities.

On 1st January 2021, the way businesses export and import goods changed.

ChamberCustoms is the customs advisory, training and brokerage service delivered through Chambers of Commerce across the UK. As part of this network Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce can help you and your team navigate the new rules and border controls.

We provide specialist customs advisory services A HMRC compliant brokerage service that you can trust for all your import and export declaration requirements. We’re the only customs broker in the UK to offer a ‘One Stop Shop’ with direct links to all sea, air, rail and road ports and terminals.

We can train your people ChamberCustoms has developed a range of training courses designed to prepare businesses and trade professionals for the future of trade. All our courses are eligible for HMRC Customs Intermediary Funding.

www.ayrshire-chamber.org/international/chamber-customs

chambercustoms@ayrshire-chamber.org

DUTY OF CARE TO LOOK AFTER YOUR BUSINESS PREMISES DURING LOCKDOWN Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many offices are currently lying empty whilst the majority of workers work from home. However, despite the offices being unoccupied, business owners have a responsibility and duty of care to look after their business premises, especially with regards to their insurance policy and regular maintenance is essential.

1 Secure the property Ensure that everything has been securely locked and that the locks meet the requirements of any minimum security condition on your insurance policy. Check your CCTV, security cameras, external security lights and alarms are fully operative and consider installing internal time switches too.

2 Leave nothing on show Keep blinds closed, lock away laptops, valuables and sensitive files, and try to ensure mail and deliveries are out of sight.

3 Beware of cold weather Both frost and flooding could cause serious problems. Boilers, pipes and gutters should be regularly checked and heating put on a timer.

PLATI PART NUM

NER

4 Have procedures in place Ensure that you have up-to-date procedures in place and employees are aware of their responsibilities in case of an emergency, even if WFH. Have someone check the property regularly (and log all visits) and that they have full authority to act on any emergency.

5 Understand your building cover and provisions Are you fully insured? From break-ins to business interruption due to damage to your property, make sure you understand your insurance policy, especially with regards to any changes you have made due to covid restrictions (e.g. if your property is going to be empty for a prolonged period of time).

Ensure you check your property on a regular basis – at least once a week – and keep a log of all visits to the premises. Make yourself familiar with any exclusions to your insurance policy and if you are unsure or think you require additional cover then please get in touch.

David MacKay, MacKay Corporate Insurance Brokers www.mackaycorporate-brokers.com 01292 611028

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7 YOUR BUSINESS | SPRING 2021

MEMBERS NEWS

CHAMBER NEWS

WHY ARE RULES OF ORIGIN PUTTING A SPANNER IN THE WORKS? The rolled over and newly negotiated trade agreements with the EU only allow goods of UK origin to move tariff and quota free. Many UK exporters from a variety of sectors are finding that goods they thought they could export tariff and quota free do not meet the new Rules of Origin (RoO) putting their goods at a disadvantage compared to their EU competitors.

The rules define which goods can be counted as originating in the UK and therefore benefit from the negotiated agreements.

So why do we have RoO? RoO are written into all trade agreements to ensure that reduced tariffs and other non-trade barriers covered by the

agreement are only available to goods originating in the countries that have signed the agreement. If we did not have RoO then companies could import goods into a country that has a trade deal with the country they want to trade with first, then export the goods from that country. For example, a US company wants to export to the EU, but the US and the EU do not have a trade deal. Without RoO the US company could export the goods to the UK and then on to the EU taking advantage of the UK EU trade deal.

The rules vary for each commodity code though in general if 50% of the ex works price is considered as originating in the UK then the goods would be considered to be of UK origin. For goods wholly originating on the UK this is not an issue but with modern supply chains, parts come from all over the world. When we were a member of the EU, parts from EU counties counted towards the origin of the goods and in some agreements they

still can as long as they processed in some way in the UK. This is called cumulation and is included in some format in most trade agreements. The issue UK businesses are having is that cumulation can only apply if the goods are processed and there is a list of minimal processes which do not change the origin of the goods. For example, Norwegian salmon is imported into the UK and repackaged for the consumer market. Repackaging is considered a minimal process which does not confer origin, so the goods remain of Norwegian origin. If the same Norwegian salmon is imported into the UK, is smoked and then repackaged for the consumer market, the salmon can be considered of UK origin.

These rules will have the effect of curtailing the UK from being a distribution centre for EU goods.

In short, RoO are an added barrier to trade that many UK exporters have not needed to consider before. Not all goods can move tariff and quota free between our trading partners.

INTERNATIONAL TRADE TRAINING COURSES Incoterms 2020 6th October Customs Procedures and A Beginners Practical Documentation 14th July This course is suitable for those working in an Guide Exporting AtoBEGINNERS PRACTICAL GUIDE UNDERSTANDING EXPORT ANDthat they have export environment and it is suggested A follow on from Understanding Export and Export 22nd April

TO EXPORTING completed the Export course where Incoterms EXPORTalready DOCUMENTATION Documentation course. Applicable to those working Aimed at beginners who are new to are introduced. course provides an overview 22nd April | 1 Full Day 3rd June | 1 The Full Day in an export environment that now want further their role this course provides a highof the changes that have taken place between the detailed export information inc. VAT | Non-Member: £250 and inc.customs VAT procedures Member: £200 inc.

VAT |2010 Non-Member: £250 inc. levelMember: overview of£200 the export process. previous terms and new 2020 terms.VAT It also or are experienced and require a refresher course.

A practical session is also included on provides a comprehensive guide on the obligations Providing furtherrole export procedure details whilst for alsobeginners who are new to their role or for beginnersinvoice who are new to their this Suitable howAimed to createat a commercial that aenvironment Buyer and Sellerthat have during course provides a high-level overview of the export looking at the Customs Procedures and Compliance those working in and ancosts export havea sale to from a pre-defined set of documents. include where risk passes during the transaction process. A practical session is also included on how never had any formal training.

This course looks at from requirements for successful international trade.

Sellerexport to Buyer. process providing an to create a commercial invoice from a pre-defined the end to end set of documents.

YOUR BUSINESS | SPRING 2021

Understanding Export and Export Documentation 3rd June

8

understanding of the export documentation and shipping using freight forwarders Methods of Payment & Letters of and couriers.

A follow on from the Customs Procedures and

Import Procedures 24th August requirements

Credit 17th November Documentation course or can be provided standalone Suitable for those working in International Trade for those who are only interested in Importing Suitable for beginners who are and are involved in the management and presentation Procedures. Suitable for those currently working in an new to their role or for those working of Letters of Credit. The course provides an overview import environment who have never had any formal IMPORT PROCEDURES CUSTOMS AND in an export environment thatPROCEDURES have of all methods of payment when trading internationally training or those wanting a refresher course. The course 24th August | 1 Full Day DOCUMENTATION never had any formal training. This to include the risks and benefits involved. It will then provides an overview of the end to end import process Member: £200 inc.

VAT | Non-Member: £250 aspect inc. VAT concentrate on the Letter of Credit guiding course looks at the14th end to end export and Day reviews all the areas that would be applicable July | 1 Full you through the rules of managing a letter of credit, to a new supplier, to include country and supplier process providing an understanding Member: £200 inc. VAT | Non-Member: £250 inc. VAT A follow on from the Customs Procedures and making sure documents are compliant and payment risk, payment risk etc. It will review documentation of the export documentation Documentation course or can be provided standalone for is successful. requirements and how to ensure goodsthose are imported requirements using who are only interested in Importing Procedures.

A follow and onshipping from Understanding Export and Export successfully to include duty payments and an overview Suitable for those currently working in an import Documentation course.

Applicable to those working freight forwarders and couriers.

Funding support may be available for these courses. have never had any formal training or available Procedures. environment who Visit in an export environment thatof the now wantSpecial further gov.uk for information. those wanting a refresher course. The course provides an detailed export and customs procedures information overview of the end to end import process and reviews all or are experienced and requireinformation a refresher or course.

For more to book, email:thejcoulter@ayrshire-chamber.org areas that would be applicable to a new supplier, to Providing further export procedure details whilst also Or, alternatively, visit: www.ayrshire-chamber.org/events/international-trade include country and supplier risk, payment risk etc. It will looking at the Customs Procedures and Compliance review documentation requirements and how to ensure requirements for successful international trade. goods are imported successfully to include duty payments and an overview of the available Special Procedures.

In the dark about making your business more digital?

We can shed some light.

Access free 1:1 business adviser support and online resources for a brighter future.

Connect with us at bgateway.com or email ayrshire@bgateway.com

Ayrshire

MEMBERS NEWS

HOW TO REACH MORE CUSTOMERS ONLINE The past year, seeing everyone stuck inside, accelerated the move to shopping online. With monolithic retailers like Amazon – and their speedy convenience – threatening local companies, it’s vital that smaller brands use all tactics available to reach more customers online. Digital avenues can be leveraged together strategically to directly affect sales.

Local SEO Local Search Engine Optimisation ensures businesses appear in front of customers searching for local offerings that their brand provides, detailing accurate contact information to facilitate them reaching out. Setting up a verified Google My

Business account and maintaining up-todate information on it is crucial – syncing this with a Bing Places profile helps reach customers here too.

Google Ads Online advertising boosts brands’ visibility to an audience interested in their industry.

Ads complement the organic way of getting onto customers’ screens, ensuring brands appear at crucial points in users’ shopping journeys. By purchasing ads to appear related to certain search terms users are making, brand awareness is achieved when customers are weighing up their options.

Social Social media is powerful for businesses to develop a unique voice across platforms their target audience uses. Valuable content, based on popular search queries, invites

DYLAN WELSH Junior Digital Coordinator Big Pond Digital

customers to engage with brands instead of pushing products at them intrusively. This opens up dialogue with users to co-create their branded experience, and upon sharing content, they amplify your brand to an even bigger audience. Bold video content is a must for engagement.

Big Pond can help with your SEO, PPC, and Social – get in touch today.

YOUR BUSINESS | SPRING 2021

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McCULLOCH GROUP COMPLETES ACQUISITION OF S+C ENGINEERING TO CREATE ONE OF AYRSHIRE’S MOST PIONEERING BUSINESSES

The McCulloch Group have announced their acquisition of Smillie & Cuthbertson Ltd – trading as S+C Engineering, an engineering solutions design, development and manufacturing business based in Kilmarnock. The acquisition of this long established and highly successful business will accelerate McCulloch Group’s growth plans within the UK and overseas.

IRVINE DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION COMPANY ANNOUNCES REVOLUTIONARY INDUSTRIAL CYBER ASSESSMENT TOOL

Scottish Enterprise Research & Development Grant funding has supported Digital Technologies Group in their development of an innovative Cyber Assessment Tool, specifically designed to help Process industries increase their Operational Technology cyber resilience.

Ian continued, “With potentially hundreds of vulnerable devices connected around an industrial plant, hackers often use OT devices as a backdoor into larger corporate networks - generating a new wave of security risks that businesses must address.

The acquisition of S+C Engineering enables both businesses to deliver a full solution provision to clients across the rail, defence, aerospace, utilities, production, and food industries. These combined strengths, enables the McCulloch Group to assess client challenges and develop solutions through concept, design and development.

DTG’s Operations Director, Ian Campbell explained, “As organisations adopt industry 4.0, installing complex digital technologies to deliver process efficiencies, they are becoming more dependent than ever on digital networks.”

“Aly and Heather have developed an amazing culture and versatility across their business, delivering successfully to a diverse customer base. Their insight, capabilities and experience will prove a huge asset to the McCulloch Group and builds on our collaboration on rail-specific projects over the last few years. The cross-fertilisation of our collective skills will bring rewards to both businesses and the clients we serve, and I look forward to further developing our combined business” said Colin Neil, CEO of McCulloch Group

DTG’s Cyber Assessment Tool (CAsT) identifies security weaknesses in operational technology systems and offers solutions to increase an organisations resilience to emerging cyber threats. By creating visibility of risks and modelling the impact of proposed changes, CAsT can protect business and digital operations from the detrimental effects of cybercrime.

Joe McArdle, Innovation Specialist at Scottish Enterprise, said, “As the impact of Covid-19 continues to be felt across the economy, it’s vital that Scottish businesses are innovative, ambitious and outward-looking. DTG is a fantastic example of a business using innovation to develop its offering, and we wish Ian and his team all the best as they launch this new cyber assessment tool.”

From the inception of McCulloch Rail, the founding brothers, Billy and Danny McCulloch, have pursued valuable differentiation with the McCulloch technologies and methodologies. This acquisition builds on this foundation and adds agility, breadth and pace to the innovation development cycle.

Alasdair Mackenzie, MD of S+C Engineering adds: “This is an exciting collaborative venture that will highlight the synergic skills carried by both companies, creating a powerful market presence in our respective client bases and further accelerating our growth ambitions. Our combined resources and this growth will fuel the creation of many high-quality new jobs within the East Ayrshire region. I am thrilled to start this next chapter in our business’ progress.”

Industrial, or Operational Technology (OT) systems were previously fully managed by humans, with no connection to the outside world, making them an insignificant target for hackers.

Scotland's national economic development agency, Scottish Enterprise, provided DTG with an R&D grant, which was instrumental in the design and construction of CAsT.

Ian added, “We are extremely grateful to Scottish Enterprise for the funding we received to develop, what we believe to be, a breakthrough OT cybersecurity solution in critical infrastructure and process industries.”

If your organisation is transforming its operations by taking advantage of the latest operational technologies, you must put an effective industrial cybersecurity strategy in place. This starts with CAsT.

www.digtechgroup.com/cast

11 YOUR BUSINESS | SPRING 2021

MEMBERS NEWS

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IMPROVE ENERGY LEVELS AND HELP TO REDUCE STRESS AND PHYSICAL TENSION Since Covid-19, many things have changed affecting our lifestyle, work and home life. We have had to adapt and adjust to ever changing guidelines and restrictions and the impact can be detrimental to our physical health and mental wellbeing.

However, there are subtle positive changes we can make to improve our energy levels and help to reduce stress and physical tension. Setting out fitness goals suitable to our own fitness levels is important to reduce the onset of injury and keep us feeling well both physically and mentally.

Callachans Health believe in a holistic approach taking into account the whole person, addressing issues relating to both social and mental factors that may relate to the change of our current working and home environment.

Callachans Health help by providing evidencebased physiotherapy combined with physical

exercise to combat the effects of stress and strain from the current situation we find ourselves in.

Looking after yourself and your family is number one and by creating a new daily routine that prioritises this has been shown to promote physical and mental wellbeing. These changes do not need to be huge - subtle changes with activity, diet and stress management can produce huge benefits. Physical activity doesn’t always have to be related to gym-based exercises. Activities you can do, or advise your employees to do, at home to increase activity levels could include: l

Cleaning your home

l Dancing to music l Going up and down your stairs for 2-3 minutes

even twice a day l Reducing your sitting time every 30-40

minutes l

Walking outside for 15 minutes or more

There are also online activity programmes you can access at www.callachans.co.uk who

are currently delivering free classes for kids and adults.

Connecting with people is important for mental wellbeing, staying in touch with family and friends by arranging outside walks and video calls can decrease stress and anxiety levels relating to lockdown blues.

Follow Callachans social media for updates on how to manage pain, develop strength and improve physical and mental health.

Instagram @Callachanshealth Facebook Callachans Health

ENLIGHTENED HOSPITALITY? WELL YES, WHY NOT The YesToAll Hospitality Group is one of Scotland’s newest and most exciting hospitality groups, with a modest, but steadily expanding collection of venues across the West of Scotland. Our portfolio is young but has been decades in the making.

Throwing away the brand map. YesToAll is committed to a diverse portfolio, on a mission to change what ‘hospitality’ looks like in Scotland and hand-tailor venue concepts to the needs and desires of the local area.

YesToAll is about creating, serving and integrating with the community, building social hubs, go to venues and places to belong.

Their core ethos? Community. Adaptability.

Belonging.

Leading the way is Hospitality entrepreneur David Davidson, who has cultivated the path

the company will follow, along with a strong team to bring plans to reality. Building strong careers and developing a workforce locally that supports their vision will be paramount, making the venues a place to grow and develop.

The Urbanist, London Road, is set to be a venue like no other - perfectly designed for Kilmarnock and the rest of East Ayrshire.

Perfectly balanced between homely and urbane, this bar, kitchen, venue and garden will be as much the go to destination for a

craft beer with the dog, a night out or a special occasion with the family. A flexible function space occupying the entire 1st floor, 2 beer gardens and key brand partnerships with Edinburgh Gin, Camden Town Brewery and Lost Orchards will set The Urbanist up to be the event hub of the town and local area.

Hoping the wait won’t be for much longer, but when the time is right, they will be ready to open their doors and start this incredible journey with you all. www.theurbanistkilmarnock.co.uk

13 YOUR BUSINESS | SPRING 2021

MEMBERS NEWS

MEMBERS NEWS

A PICTURE SAYS A THOUSAND WORDS – THIS IS SO TRUE WHEN IT COMES TO SUCCESSFUL INTERNATIONAL TRADING! To grow any business you need to create the demand and desire for the products/services you wish to promote and this is where high quality photography leads the way.

Now entering their eighth year of successful partnership, world renowned Hifi specialist cable company Atlas continues to strongly build their brand using the talents of Largs own ikat Photography!

Kevin Kelly Atlas Managing Director says “Without ikat’s attention to detail and ability to lift the most passive product image and give it life we wouldn’t be as successful in attracting as much international trade as we do now. Atlas use Ikat photography know how to generate all our product packaging images, online and print advertising images and most importantly the images that inspire our customers to seek out our brand via our International web site.”

The collaboration between Atlas and ikat was formed courtesy of an Ayrshire Chamber networking evening in Troon. Ann Cromack says “I have made many successful connections with local businesses at these events.

Working with the team at Atlas is very interesting and involves precise, detailed photography of their prototypes and eventually the final unique product.”

Based in Largs ikat provides creative, commercial photography covering everything from food, furniture and show homes to people, products and places. ikat images can be seen on websites, print and press, promoting virtually anything apart from weddings! www.ikatphotography.com www.atlascables.com

BOWMAN REBECCHI RECOGNISED AT ANNUAL COMMERCIAL PROPERTY AWARDS The annual CoStar Awards have recognised new Ayrshire Chamber members, Bowman Rebecchi as the fourth most-active single branch agency in the industrial sector in Scotland for 2020, based on square footage.

YOUR BUSINESS | SPRING 2021

The impressive ranking for the commercial property firm was based on detailed analysis of deals that property information and marketing provider, CoStar collects each month.

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This latest recognition is the third accolade for the fledgeling property firm since its launch in February 2020, following two awards after Ferguson Marine let its new Greenock site at Cartsdyke Avenue and Salon & Groom opened in Cathcart Street in Greenock.

Bowman Rebecchi director, Andrew Bowman said: "This is an outstanding recognition for Bowman Rebecchi, and we are delighted to be named the fourth active agency in Scotland alongside some fantastic and well-established businesses.

“We continue to adapt to ensure we can deliver a first-class service, with our 360-degree virtual tours and pragmatic approach being

welcomed by our clients and tenants.” www.bowreb.com Bowman Rebecchi Ltd is a limited company registered in Scotland and trading in Inverclyde. Registration number: SC645639.

In December, the business launched Bowman Rebecchi Letting, a new joint venture with Riccardo Giovanacci’s Glasgow-based firm, Newton Letting covering the west coast.

Bowman Rebecchi and Rebecchi Architectural director, Marco Rebecchi, said: "Bowman Rebecchi continues to focus on the areas it can add value to support landlords and businesses in both the commercial and residential property market across the west of Scotland.

“With Bowman Rebecchi Letting now fully operational and the commercial arm continuing to perform strongly, we believe 2021 will be an exciting year for both businesses.”

MEMBERS NEWS

With restrictions still in place for both UK and international travel, it is unclear what the upcoming tourism season will look like. The visitor economy was worth around £600 million pounds to Ayrshire & Arran in 2019 but it is unlikely international travel will return in 2021. VisitScotland will continue to engage with international partners on a ‘dream now, travel later’ basis so that, should the situation allow, the industry can move quickly to take advantage of any opportunities which may arise.

When restrictions ease, it is anticipated the domestic market will be the first to emerge albeit subject to travel constraints. Scotland is a popular destination for UK residents and last year there was a real desire from Scots to explore their own country.

The good news is domestic tourism is extremely important to the region with around 9 out of 10 trips to Ayrshire & Arran from British residents.

Regional Director for VisitScotland, Gordon Smith, said: “VisitScotland has redeployed around 100 staff to administer more than a dozen funds to provide financial support to the tourism and events sector, following The Scottish Government’s initial £104.3 million package, with a further £25 million being made available.

However, we must also help businesses prepare for the various challenges that still lie ahead. The Scottish Tourism Emergency Response Group (STERG), chaired by VisitScotland, has created a scenario planning toolkit, backed up by webinars, in order to help prepare for the upcoming season. We will continue to work with businesses to ensure that this vital part of Ayrshire & Arran’s economy is ready and in the best possible position to welcome visitors back when it is safe to do so.”

For full details visit https://www.visitscotland.org/supporting-yourbusiness/advice/coronavirus

YOUR BUSINESS | SPRING 2021

WHAT NEXT FOR AYRSHIRE & ARRAN’S VISITOR ECONOMY?

CROFTERS EVOLVES FROM BISTRO TO BRAND The pandemic has hit hospitality particularly hard, but one Arran restaurant has taken the opportunity to adapt and completely shift their business proposition.

Renowned as a music venue, Crofters Arran is a family-run bar and bistro in Brodick. When the premises was forced to temporarily close, General Manager Ealána Boyle launched a new business - Crofters Larder. Crofters Larder enhances locally grown and sustainably foraged ingredients from Arran and the Ayrshire region to produce artisan larder staples such as condiments and preserves.

However, the team didn’t stop there. The Crofters name has evolved into an umbrella brand, under which several projects are in development.

Live music and supporting grassroots local musicians is crucial to Crofters. As Managing Director Dónal Boyle explains, “We launched Crofters Music on MyPlayer.uk - the only Scottish online media hub.

Crofters Music captures the ambience of a great night of live music in Crofters with professionally recorded audio and video and presents it to a wider audience.”

Crofters Cruises will take the Crofters experience on board a tall ship when restrictions allow, building on a pilot sailing trip from Oban to Donegal in 2019 where guests and crew enjoyed food, drink and live entertainment from Crofters Arran. With under-used premises, Crofters has invested in distilling equipment to create unique alcoholic beverages in another project - Crofters Still.

1

VisitScotland Insights Department Ayrshire & Arran Factsheet 2019 (Published January 2021) https://www.visitscotland.org/binaries/content/assets/dot-org/pdf/research-papers-2/ regional-factsheets/ayrshire-and-arran-factsheet-2019.pdf

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“We realised that Crofters is so much more than the restaurant,” says Ealána Boyle. “Our vision is to provide products and experiences to nourish body and soul, from food to music. Everything we do is aligned with a sustainable, circular and inclusive Scottish, West Coast and local economy. We are all about supporting local suppliers, producers and people.”

For more information, visit www.croftersarran.com

MEMBERS NEWS LAUNCH DIGITAL DEVELOP NEW E-COMMERCE WEBSITE FOR LOCAL BUSINESS EQUIPPAREL HL.

Launch Digital recently worked alongside local Ayrshire business, Equipparel HL on the development of a new, functional, modern e-commerce website, to allow the business to increase their market exposure, online brand awareness and sales. Due to COVID it has become more important than ever for businesses to be online, promoting themselves as well as exploring new options and ways to sell their products and services.

Equipparel HL offer a wide range of hand selected equestrian products, ensuring quality customer service and products to all customers. The owners have many years of equestrian experience and pride themselves on being able to give bespoke advice, recommendations and personal experiences to all shoppers.

YOUR BUSINESS | SPRING 2021

Launch are a Digital Marketing agency with Studios in Ayrshire and Glasgow. Launch focus on creativity and provide a vast amount of marketing services including branding, website design, graphic design, social media, and search marketing. Customer satisfaction is priority and the team at Launch are proud of their many longstanding Chamber Member customers who they continue to work closely with.

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Both companies have been working together over the past few months to ensure the new website is fully functional, user-friendly and allows users to easily purchase items online. The website showcases the quality of products available through strong use of images and clear navigation. The team at Launch were keen to get involved in this project, to help a local business boost their online presence and sales through an attractive e-commerce website.

Check out the new website: www.equipparelhl.co.uk

SPEEDING UP DISPATCH TO EUROPE THROUGH AUTOMATION Businesses shipping to Europe are coming to terms with the new burden of customs documentation since Brexit. It’s estimated during 2021 the number of commercial invoices produced in the UK will jump from 50 million to 300 million. With each one adding over 20 minutes to the prep time for each export shipment there’s understandable concern about the impact on dispatch processes and lead times.

Chamber member, CCL, is helping firms speed up the process by automating the transfer of data. Their multi-carrier shipping platform, myCCL, integrates with existing ERP and order management systems meaning there’s no longer a requirement to input commercial data twice.

Removing the need for manual input has the added benefit of reducing errors and freeing people up to work on more productive tasks. Fewer mistakes also lead to fewer problems with shipments not clearing customs successfully.

Those businesses still entering carrier shipping data manually stand to gain a great deal from this integration. Automating the entire pick, pack and dispatch process as well as commercial invoices, allows businesses to process all orders, including UK ones, up to 10 times faster. Increasing their throughput, they are able to do more with less people, improving their profitability and service levels.

Get in touch with CCL to find out more about their technology solutions.

Email: hello@ccl-logistics.com | Phone: 01292 310 510 www.ccl-logistics.com/eureka

Logistics with Technology

The world has changed, so have our fares & zones. ...but our friendly service remains!

From Sunday 7th March, we're making choosing a bus ticket much simpler!

• New Flexi 5 ticket to help customers changing travel patterns, offering five-day tickets for the price of four • Greater choice of tickets on offer for children aged 5 - 15 • New range of easy to understand and simple ticket types with more flexible travel options During the Covid-19 pandemic Scottish Government guidance remains to only use public transport where it is absolutely essential to do so.

Visit stagecoachbus.com for more information.

SME FUND – ACCESS UP TO £5K TRAINING SUPPORT The world of work has been profoundly affected by Covid-19. Businesses and organisations are facing unprecedented levels of uncertainty and change, and our new world of remote and blended working requires new thinking, new ways of connecting and collaborating as well as new leadership and management thinking and approaches.

£5k

Reskilling and upskilling form a critical part of response and recovery plans and SMEs can now access up to £5k support via Ayrshire College. The Fund forms part of the Scottish Government’s Flexible Workforce Development Fund and is open to SMEs from the public, private and voluntary/charitable sectors.

http://bit.ly/SMESupport2021CH

Ayrshire College is offering a diverse training portfolio tailored to suit employer needs and highly relevant for today’s environment.

We have invested in our new virtual classroom and offer high quality, tutor led training courses.

PLATI PART NUM

NER

to help your business adapt If you are a sole trader, micro or growing business employing up to 250 employees, learn more about the new SME fund and register your interest.

Ayrshire College is ready and open for business!

CONFIDA FM ACHIEVES INTERNATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY STANDARD As one of the UK’s leading facilities management companies, Confida FM is serious about improving employee safety, reducing workplace risks and creating better, safer working conditions. That is why the company has obtained ISO 45001, the new international standard for occupational health and safety (OH&S), which has replaced OHSAS 18001.

As one of the organisations already certified to OHSAS 18001, Confida needed to migrate to ISO 45001 by the end of March 2021. This process required the company to undergo a rigorous migration

audit to show that it complied with the new standard. Only after passing the audit was a recommendation for certification given.

Confida FM already has a wellestablished culture of health and safety which is embedded throughout the company at every level. Achieving the new standard further demonstrates it.

In addition to enhancing Confida FM’s reputation as a safe place to work, the new standard will help to minimise workplace illness and injuries, increase productivity and improve the company’s ability to anticipate and meet legal and regulatory requirements. It also reinforces their leadership commitment to proactively optimise OH&S performance and deepen the existing culture of health and safety, whereby

employees are encouraged to take an active role in their own OH&S. Tammy Boyle, Compliance Manager at Confida FM, said: "We are delighted to have successfully transitioned from OHSAS 18001 to ISO 45001. This continues our pledge to recognise internationally approved standards that help ensure a safe and healthy workplace environment for all our employees.

Confida FM is a safety conscious company which is committed to proactive risk prevention, innovation and continual improvement. As a result of our certification, we can benchmark our performance against the highest international OH&S standards, fulfil our legal and regulatory requirements, and achieve our OH&S objectives.” www.confidafm.co.uk

19 YOUR BUSINESS | SPRING 2021

MEMBERS NEWS

MEMBERS NEWS

INTAKE OF LOCAL APPRENTICES HELP DELIVER AFFORDABLE, RURAL, MODULAR HOUSING BERSERK COMPUTERS LTD DONATES £2,000 TO SOUTH AYRSHIRE WOMEN’S AID Local computer repair firm, Berserk Computers in Ayr, has donated £2,000 to South Ayrshire Women’s Aid to support vital services in the community.

All money donated goes towards providing support and temporary accommodation to women and children who have experienced domestic abuse across South Ayrshire.

Lhyam Sumal, Principal Director at Berserk Computers, said: “We believe in giving back to our community and 2020 has been a challenging year for everyone, but more so for victims of domestic abuse. When we discussed supporting a local charity, it was a stark reminder of how close to home these issues are and can go completely unnoticed by friends or relatives. We were delighted to give this support to South Ayrshire Women’s Aid to continue their fantastic work.”

YOUR BUSINESS | SPRING 2021

Shirley Middleditch, Manager at South Ayrshire Women’s Aid, said: “We really appreciate Berserk Computers support and this donation will help tremendously to ensure the women, children and young people we work with receive the help and support they deserve to allow them to move on with their lives. Thank you so much for your kindness and generosity.”

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South Ayrshire Women’s Aid provides refuges, safe houses and support for women and children impacted by domestic abuse. The Willows has workers available 7 days a week to help and support women, as well as a children’s worker. In addition to The Willows, South Ayrshire Women’s Aid have access to dispersed accommodation that allows for independence for families if required.

Any woman who would like to talk about any of the above issues can access free, confidential support and information from South Ayrshire Women’s Aid, 28 Sandgate, Ayr, KA7 1BW or telephone 01292 266482.

In spite of the pandemic it’s been a very busy year for The Wee House Company, who design and fabricate modular homes in their Ayrshire factory, to be shipped to sites all around the country.

Working with Mull and Iona Community Trust (MICT), the company has just delivered a number of affordable modular homes on the idyllic Isle of Mull, through their recently launched Connect Modular division.

To facilitate the MICT project, and other burgeoning pipeline workload, The Wee House Company took on a staggering 30 new employees this year, including 10 new apprentices from the local area, doubling their overall workforce. The apprentices have spent equal amounts of time attending college and in the factory – engaging in practical tasks, from building bird houses to being hands on in the production of the affordable housing modules. Some were also treated to company sponsored driving lessons too.

After construction within the protected environment of the firm’s manufacturing facility in Cumnock, the houses are split into modules to be transported by lorry to their destination – in the case of MICT homes, on to a ferry and then along narrow, winding roads to their picturesque setting on Mull.

Jennifer Higgins, Managing Director comments: “The need for affordable homes has never been greater and through our Connect Modular brand we look forward to continuing to contribute high quality, sustainable homes to tackle this issue, both in remote, island communities and on the mainland. Our next project for this year will be the largest modular development of affordable housing in Scotland to date – a very exciting, key milestone for us all at The Wee House Company”.

Modular, factory construction offers many advantages over traditional building, with improvements in quality and waste reduction leading to significantly more sustainable homes. Houses are 90% complete when they depart the factory, with kitchens and bathrooms installed, facilitating a significantly shorter build programme and earlier occupancy. www.theweehousecompany.co.uk

MEMBERS NEWS

YOUR BUSINESS | SPRING 2021

URQUHART OPTICIANS LAUNCH PRIVATE VISUAL STRESS CLINIC Ayrshire’s leading Eyecare Specialists have expanded their private eyecare offering with the introduction of a Visual Stress Clinic at their practice in Troon. Following the initial lockdown last year, many service providers stopped offering a Visual Stress Clinic, including the NHS. Urquharts already looks after a large number of Under 16s and this left them with no referral pathway for this condition. As a result, a significant four figure investment has been made in purchasing software and equipment that will allow Urquharts to be one of the only providers of this vital service.

Visual stress occurs when letters, words and sentences appear jumbled, jump on the page, or even appear distorted. This can cause children to suffer from headaches and glare, and to have problems reading. Optometrist Fiona Black is leading the new clinic from the businesses Troon practice and has undertaken extra training to be able to provide a comprehensive service to patients. The Visual Stress consultation will take place over two or three appointments with Fiona to determine the best outcome – this can include coloured overlays to read with, tinted glasses or a computer program to change screen colour for comfort. Early results from patients who have used the clinic have shown results in reading speed have almost doubled.

The charge for this service includes the initial consultation appointments, with any overlays or glasses charged separately. Fiona commented, “I’ve always been passionate about caring for children and this visual stress clinic is a really important offering that is not currently available elsewhere. The results are really satisfying and the difference it can make to a child and their confidence is so important.”

Urquharts, established in 1916, is owned by Alistair Duff and Peter Telfer who having bought the business in 2015 have grown it from 3 Ayrshire Practices to 5. School friends, Alistair always wanted to be an Optician and Peter always wanted to have his own business, so when the opportunity came it was the perfect partnership. An Award-Winning business, Urquharts values old fashioned customer service, excellent clinical care, and a personal touch accompanying it all.

SAC MyBins App making a

difference within the community

Albion Environmental are working with South Ayrshire Council to keep our streets clean and improve recycling habits, with the launch of a new app! The SAC MyBins App was launched in December 2020 and is already receiving excellent feedback, with one user writing to say “I wish to give a huge thank you to the councillors at South Ayrshire for the fantastic new App for refuse information and bin collections. No more the “check what the neighbours have put out” scenarios. I now have the app set up for reminders and notifications and I receive an alert in advance for which bin and when to place at the roadside”.

Albion Environmental are delighted that the app is making a difference within the community and making life easier for local authority waste management teams too!

The app is beginning a roll-out to other local authorities across Scotland, in the hope to make a difference on a large scale. If you would love to see the app available in your area or would like a version for your business, get in touch with Albion Environmental heather@albion-environmental.co.uk

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Over 100 years of eyecare 1916 -2021

Here for you now & always Kilmarnock

Prestwick

14 Portland Road KA1 2BS

77 Main Street KA9 1JS

01563 525059

01292 475603

Ayr

Troon

15 Arran Mall KA7 1SQ

27 Portland Street KA10 6AA

01292 290092

01292 311866

Kilwinning 168 Main Street KA13 6EE 01294 440475

Book your next examination online today! www.urquhartopticians.co.uk

01292 678666 info@dywayrshire.com

DYW AYRSHIRE SECTOR SPOTLIGHT January 2021 saw the launch of our DYW Ayrshire Sector Spotlight Campaign. This new social media campaign focuses on a different industry/sector each month with up to 3 posts per week dedicated to promoting job roles, pathways, videos and links to resources.

These sectors have been chosen following research into the Skills Development Scotland Regional Skills Assessment which identifies trends for jobs of the future.

The first month had a focus on the Construction Industry and DYW

Ayrshire were grateful to Ashleigh Building for providing many of the information videos that were featured throughout the month.

February had a focus on Social Work and Child Services and featured videos from Rainbow Care Services, National Autistic Society and Ayrshire College alongside various resources for a young person to find out more about careers and pathways within this sector.

Another great source of job role information is the Skills

YOUR BUSINESS | SPRING 2021

GATHERING THE VOICES

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During this school year, we had a request to support Auchenharvie Academy with the Holocaust topic within History. We approached Gathering the Voices, a charity whose 6 volunteers have gathered testimonies from Holocaust survivors who, after experiencing antiSemitic racial persecution, came to settle in Scotland.

They present these experiences as a warning about injustice and racism to present and future generations.

Their volunteers prior to the pandemic visited schools, libraries, and events to share these testimonies.

Gathering the Voices agreed to produce a pre-recorded resource that Auchenharvie pupils could access whilst restrictions to visitors in school are in place and pupils are learning from home allowing them to access the resource more easily.

Steven Anson of Gathering the Voices has been ever so helpful and has shared the horrors his late father, Martin Anson, experienced and how he came to settle in Glasgow via a series of seven chapters on Vimeo.

These highly informative accounts inform pupils of Martin’s life from growing up in Germany under Nazi persecution to his account of Kristallnacht and Dachau concentration camp. The resources have also had the generous and professional services of Bruclay Media to blend the video presentations with audio and video content. The offer to access the resource was also extended to all Ayrshire secondary schools and at the time of writing, a further four schools have so far benefited from this wonderful opportunity. Gathering the Voices have furthermore volunteered live Q&A sessions to these schools if they wish to supplement the virtual content anytime during the year.

Steven Anson added, “For some time we at

Development Scotland My World of Work Website which is a useful platform for young people to connect their skills and interests to different job roles. We featured job information on some of the roles involved in the Construction Industry and in the Social Work and Child Services sector.

You can catch up on our past Sector Spotlight’s by visiting the news page on our website: www. dywayrshire.com or follow the hashtag #DYWSectorSpotlight on social media.

Gathering the Voices have been looking for a method to present my father's and other refugees’ life stories in a remote manner when distance, timing, etc. no longer made a visit possible. We must admit we didn't factor in a pandemic. When the request came through from Auchenharvie Academy, it gave me the impetus to do something about it and the focus of Holocaust Memorial Day 2021 provided the target date. Various attempts with Zoom technology trying to blend personal presentation, slides, and audio looked amateur and unprofessionally, I knew we needed to do better. When the offer of an experienced videographer came to us from Ally at Bruclay Media, it ticked all our boxes and we decided to try it out. The results certainly exceed our expectations, and positive feedback has given us ideas on how to build on this and take it further.”

Jenna Smith, teacher at Auchenharvie Academy commented, “The resources created by Gathering the Voices will be embedded into our lessons throughout the Holocaust topic. These informative clips will allow pupils to gain an insight into the experiences of a Holocaust survivor by following the journey of Martin.

Pupils will be able to put their learning into real life context which will deepen their understanding of the events and impact of the Holocaust.”

For more information in the above please contact info@dywayrshire.com

23 YOUR BUSINESS | SPRING 2021

DFN PROJECT | SEARCH Who knew back in February 2020 when we had to delay the start of our third Project Search course based out at Culzean because of a ferocious winter storm, that it would be a sign of the year ahead! Our eight new interns settled really quickly into their new routines – being out on site five days a week can come as a bit of a shock but then the programme is designed to mimic real life as much as possible. As winter turned to spring the interns started their first rotation in their new departments and all was going well…..

However; that is not how it continued for the year. As with every walk of life, the end of March saw the programme close down along with the college and the site and pretty much everywhere else. We switched to working with the students online as best as possible, teaching them to use video calls, join online workshops and complete their college work. As the summer drew to an end, a glimmer of hope arose that we could get back out onsite by the end of August.

One of our interns, Lee was an incredibly anxious young man, presenting with a distinct lack of self-esteem and at only 18, he was unsure of his path in life. His first internship was a short one, within the retail shop at Culzean. Although only two weeks, he made a real impact on staff with his incredible organisational and observation skills. He learned how to stock rotate and answer customer queries. The second internship commenced at the end of August, when we were able to go back on site. Lee chose the Rangers, something that was out with his comfort zone. He admitted to not enjoying getting his hands or himself covered in mud, and as he had never worked in an outdoor environment, he was

unsure of how he would cope.

However, after a couple of weeks, Lee’s confidence soared and being out in all elements was soon becoming something he embraced and enjoyed. The Ranger & Project SEARCH team continued to support him on his journey, enabling him to learn about path management, tree planting, building raised beds, apple picking, and clearing working areas and using a large variety of tools. Half way through his internship with the Rangers, Lee was asked to take on a Team Leader role, although a little nervous and reticent, he said he would give it a go. The feedback from the head ranger and other interns was incredible and it was also clear to the team that Lee had indeed grown.

The third and final internship was with our partners at Girvan Youth Trust. They work in the community of South Carrick and due to the pandemic there were a lot of projects that had stalled or new ones that needed to be addressed. Lee lived in the Girvan area and took this in his stride, asking if he could have the chance to lead the team again. Their first task was to tidy up an area of Memorial Park known as the Rose Garden.

We had also assisted with litter picking on the beach and quite recently we have been helping

GYT out with putting together the family pack, an incredibly rewarding task for our interns to be part of. Lee became an intrinsic part of the team, helping others where possible. His positivity and can do attitude has been invaluable. Helping to keep other interns upbeat, with his presence and generally happy attitude. We couldn’t be prouder of all of our interns, however Lee, who had 100% attendance and commitment, has inspired not just the team, but others.

He really stepped up to all the challenges and worked so hard to overcome all the trials and tribulations of this unprecedented year.

His dream job is to work as a train driver or a conductor with Scot Rail. He has realised that this could become a reality, and is now with our partners at South Ayrshire Council, employability and skills continuing his journey to find employment.

MEMBERS NEWS

DOES YOUR BUSINESS REQUIRE DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION?

ADVANCING MANUFACTURING PROJECTS TO OFFER INNOVATION AND OPPORTUNITY TO SMES

YOUR BUSINESS | SPRING 2021

Sure-Net was launched in late 2020 and they aim to help clients align Digital Technologies with their business. They specialise in cloud and software technologies in areas such as Unified Communications | Software Defined Networking | Cyber Security | IOT | Application & Business Continuity. Typical outcomes are remote secure working, simplified systems and management, increased customer satisfaction, productivity increase, security & compliance or costs savings on outdated systems that are no longer delivering for the business.

Stuart Little is CEO and Senior Consultant at Sure-Net and he is well placed to launch a start-up having previously been a founder at Provista UK Ltd which was acquired by a global US technology provider. Commenting on Sure-Net, Little said: “Having a technical background and successfully built and managed my own business I know the challenges organisations are facing. When I was thinking of what to do next in my career, I wanted to use my own experience to help other organisations and give a personable service tailored to their needs. The last year has witnessed massive disruption and technology is vital in enabling business to survive by changing working practices, business process and deployment of new ways to successfully operate. While some organisations have adapted well there are still many businesses trailing and needing help.”

Sure-Net aim to work as a trusted advisor with clients to define their strategy, they can introduce cloud and software solutions providers from their Eco-System of trusted partners and aim to stay involved with clients to ensure the ongoing success of their strategy.

Sure-Net are delighted to offer complementary consultancy to Ayrshire Chamber members by suppling a zero-cost summary assessment of their digital strategy and identify areas where cloud and software solutions will benefit their business operations. www.sure-net.co.uk

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Two advancing manufacturing aerospace projects to support small to medium-enterprises (SMEs) in the west of Scotland have officially launched, following investment from the Advancing Manufacturing Challenge Fund (AMCF).

The Aerospace Digital Visualisation Suite (ADVS) and Supply Chain AeroSpace (SCA) aim to create transformational change in the aerospace and space sectors through opportunity and innovation. Both projects have been established following a successful bid to the AMCF by South Ayrshire Council (SAC), together with its partners Ayrshire College, the University of Strathclyde and Ayrshire Engineering Alliance, securing £2 million investment in ERDF and match funding from SAC. The ADVS is based at the Aeronautical Engineering Training Centre at Ayrshire College’s Ayr Campus. It offers SMEs access to innovative Extended Reality (XR) technology, helping them enter or expand their presence in the aerospace sector.

Using cutting edge XR - incorporating Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) - and digital visualisation, the ADVS helps companies to innovate, develop skills and improve productivity. The services of the ADVS are available to eligible SMEs at no charge.

The SCA project supports SMEs to improve their productivity and competitiveness through the introduction of innovative manufacturing technologies via the National Manufacturing Institute Scotland (NMIS). It also works with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and Tier One suppliers to identify supply chain opportunities for SMEs to join the aerospace and space sectors, or grow their contribution. Like its sister project ADVS, the services of SCA are available to eligible SMEs at no charge.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the launch of both projects took place virtually in early February 2021, under the banner of Advancing Manufacturing AeroSpace.

Hosted by the Centre for Engineering Education & Development (CeeD), the online event was well attended by industry experts and representatives from academia, as well as local government and SMEs. South Ayrshire Council is the Lead Organisation for both projects. The Steering Group is supported by NMIS, with colleagues in the Faculty of Engineering in the University of Strathclyde; Ayrshire College; Ayrshire Engineering Alliance; Scottish Manufacturing Advisory Service and Scottish Enterprise.

For more information on the ADVS and SCA, including details on how to get involved with either project, please visit www.am-aerospace.co.uk

THE SURPRISE RISE OF SUSTAINABLE PROMOTIONAL GIFTING AND PACKAGING It might currently be difficult to see how you can market your business in these strange times when events and meetings aren’t allowed, so how can you gift your clients and staff?

Im-Press Promotions Ayr are happy to share that despite everything businesses are dealing with, they have seen a demand increase for sustainable promotional gifting and packaging. This implies that even through greater operational and financial difficulties, businesses are still opting for the better environmental choice, whilst reinforcing their valued networks and relationships. Smaller box packaging optimised to fit through letterboxes while many of us are working from home, are increasingly made from sustainable materials.

At the moment, only 14% of plastic packaging globally is recycled and over 40% ends up in landfill (Ellen MacArthur Foundation), making this

a welcome shift. Other ways to make your gift more environmentally-friendly are: • Replacement materials, such as sugarcane, wheat-derivatives and corn-starch • FSC certification • Biodegradable / recycled packing tapes and bubblewrap Further trends are customised packaging and product individualisation (printing individual names), ensuring that branding is visible and consistent at every client touch point from the moment they receive their parcel, to unwrapping and enjoying it, thereby boosting the feeling of value. In the image seen here, which focuses on a branded winter car kit (including an ice scraper, scent vent and tyre pressure gauge), the whole pack can be delivered through the letterbox with matching printed sticker and postcard for a bespoke message and is made from recycled materials.

SUCCESS STARTS WITH SAFETY Training First Safety have pledged to Commit, Engage and Invest in the development and competency of both their workforce and yours.

A new partnership with Tala Training means they are now able to offer funded construction related SVQs ranging from Plant Operations right through to Construction Management.

SVQs are a qualification which essentially acts as a guarantee that someone can do their job competently and to the national standards of their sector. These qualifications put an emphasis on work-based activities and involve an assessor visiting site every 10-13 weeks to help the delegate with their portfolio and unit questions. Delegates study in the workplace while carrying out their normal day-to-day work. There are no formal written exams.

Instead, learners collect and submit evidence, usually from their own work.

If sustainable products and packaging are important to you, please speak with the ImPress team on 01292 570 495 or email sales@ im-pressayr.co.uk.

THANK YOU MD Jenny McIntyre says “It’s an exciting time for us just now at TFS. As the team starts to grow and we expand to new premises it’s imperative that we continue to expand our network and build partnerships like this. Being able to offer our customers funded sector specific SVQs is something I am personally thrilled to be talking about and Tala have been a fantastic support in getting everything set up.”

Investment in education and training, like SVQs, is becoming an integral part of the business strategy for more and more companies. To demonstrate commitment to your team’s professional development is to create an engaged workforce with a greater morale and potential for future industry leaders.

Sally – Business Development Co-ordinator says “There’s no time like now. If 2020 taught us anything, commitment to the future couldn’t be more important!” www.trainingfirstsafety.co.uk I 01563 573 785 info@trainingfirstsafety.co.uk

Many thanks to Alister Firth Photography for capturing and supplying the amazing image for our front cover.

Alister says “It was one of those moments, I was driving to another job when the rainbow appeared. I always carry the camera inside the car, so managed to find a layby, pulled in and got the shot.”

Alister regularly shoots stock images which are used for a variety markets and this was perfect for this edition. It represents not only our fantastic Ayrshire landscape, Ardrossan on this occasion, but also our green energy focus and the tireless work of our wonderful NHS. He clearly demonstrates the benefits of always carrying a camera.

Thank you Alister

25 YOUR BUSINESS | SPRING 2021

MEMBERS NEWS

MEMBERS NEWS DEMENTIA FRIENDLY AYR DEMENTIA FRIENDLY AYR

Free Online Dementia Awareness Sessions The newly formed Dementia Friendly Ayr hopes to follow in the established PEOPLE WITH DEMENTIA FACE MANY DEMENTIA FACE MANY footsteps of PEOPLE Troon andWITH in creating the most BARRIERSPrestwick THAT CAN AFFECT THEIRwelcoming and BARRIERS across THAT CAN AFFECT THEIR empathetic environment the town for people ABILITY TO DO SIMPLE TASKS LIKEwith dementia and ABILITY TO DO SIMPLE TASKS LIKE their carers. With representation on the committee from education, SHOPPING OR GOING TO THE BANK. SHOPPING ORtheGOING TOwell THE BANK. health and local businesses, group are placed to have a positive impact on the town, and have received funding from Life Changes Trust to THESE AWARENESS SESSIONS INVOLVE THESE AWARENESS SESSIONS INVOLVE employ a Project Co-ordinator to deliver upon their goals. Principle among LEARNING A LITTLE ABOUT DEMENTIA LEARNING A LITTLE ABOUT DEMENTIA those is the roll-out of dementia awareness AND DOING VERY SIMPLE sessions AND to all businesses, AND DOING VERY SIMPLE AND hints and tips, means community groups and council staff, with practical PRACTICAL THINGS THAT CAN MAKE AN CAN can MAKE AN to live well of escalatingPRACTICAL concerns, andTHINGS a view ofTHAT how people continue ENORMOUS DIFFERENCE TO PEOPLE ENORMOUS DIFFERENCE TObePEOPLE with this debilitating Sessions will delivered via Zoom, please LIVINGcondition.

WITH THE CONDITION LIVING WITH THE CONDITION email info@dementiafriendlyayr.com to book your slot. The group can also OPEN TO ALL BUSINESSES AND ALLbusiness/office BUSINESSES AND offer environmentalOPEN auditsTO of your COMMUNITY GROUPS IN and AYRwill be partnering COMMUNITY GROUPS IN AYR with the Ayrshire Post to showcase those that are trained, as well as other locally relevant information and initiatives.

YOUR BUSINESS | SPRING 2021

CONTACT JIM BAIRD ON 07584 327875 CONTACT JIM BAIRD ON 07584 327875 OR EMAIL OR EMAIL INFO@DEMENTIAFRIENDLYAYR.COM INFO@DEMENTIAFRIENDLYAYR.COM

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The ‘My Story’ project seeks to engage with people in Ayr who are living with dementia or worried about their memory. Through pupils from the 4 secondary schools in Ayr, working with local authors and the Ayr Writers’ Club, DFA want to engage with them, safely, to allow their stories to become part of this project.

As well as providing a therapeutic benefit to the individual, such stories will be important for carers to read if and when they are required. As conversational prompts, these will be priceless.

Lastly, DFA is keen to champion continued participation in sport and physical activity for those with dementia – Ayr United’s walking football showed the appetite for this, and DFA would like to extend this to ‘Relaxed’ offerings in golf, swimming and even rugby too when restrictions allow.

Much to look out for!

The Board of Directors is delighted to welcome the following companies as recently joined members of Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce and Industry: ACTIVON LIMITED Prestwick Mr Scott Bickerton scott@activon.co.uk

CROFTERS LARDER Isle of Arran Ms Ealana Boyle admin@crofterslarder.com

IKONIC PRINT HOLDINGS LTD Stewarton Mr Chris McCluskie chris@ikonicprint.com

TAX REDUCTIONS SOLUTIONS LTD Ayr Mr Jonathan Finnie johnny@jdfconsulting.co.uk

AILSA RELIABILITY SOLUTIONS LTD Dundonald Mr Jamie Burns jamie.burns@ailsareliabilitysolutions.com

DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES GROUP Irvine Miss Kirstie Cowan kirstie.cowan@digtechgroup.com

INVEST IN YOURSELF Kilmarnock Mrs Kathleen Reid reidkathie@gmail.com

THE LITTLE ACCOMMODATION CO Maybole Miss Alex Mattinson afmattinson@gmail.com

APEX MEDIA TEAM Ayr Mr Andrew Black andy@apexmedia.uk

DIRT N GRIME Cumnock Mr Alex Ponton Info@dirtngrime.co.uk

KOOLERZ LTD Kilwinning Mr Scott Wright Kinandkas@yahoo.co.uk

TRAVELKNOWHOW SCOTLAND Perth Mrs Shona Drummond shona@travelknowhowscotland.co.uk

ARRAN SOCIAL MEDIA Isle of Arran Mrs Jane Mack jane@arransocialmedia.co.uk

DIZZYFISH AV LTD Knockentiber Mr Dave Wilson info@dizzyfish.net

MAC MINDSET LTD Ayr Mr John McAllister info@macmindset.co.uk

THE URBANIST KILMARNOCK Kilmarnock Miss Karen Bennie karen@yestoallgroup.co.uk

BOWMAN REBECCHI LIMITED Gourock Mr Andrew Bowman andrew@bowreb.com

DWAV SOLUTIONS LTD Prestwick Mr Dario Walker dario@dw-av.com

MARY PUPPINS PET SERVICES Kilmarnock Mrs Lisa Wyper lisawyper@gmail.com

THE WEE HOUSE COMPANY Cumnock Miss Lynsey Young lynsey@theweehousecompany.co.uk

CARCANET MEDIA LTD Fakenham Ms Irene Armstrong irene@carcanet.media

EVANYROUSE UK LTD Troon Mrs Claire Bell claire@evanyrouse.co.uk

O'KANE SITE ENGINEERING LTD Cumnock Mr Paul O'Kane paul@okanesiteengineering.co.uk

WORLDPAY London Ms Debbie Wells debbie.wells@fisglobal.com

CAVETTA CONSULTING LIMITED Glasgow Mr Alan Cadden alan.cadden@cavettaconsulting.co.uk

FOUR ONE SAFETY SOLUTIONS LTD Galston Mr Darren Philipson d.philipson@fouronesafetysolutions.co.uk

PARKVIEW PROPERTY SERVICES (SCOTLAND) LTD Ayr Mrs Janice Molloy info@parkview-property.co.uk

CLYDE STUDIOS LTD Saltcoats Mr Alec Wilkie alec@clydestudios.co.uk

GB PRO LTD Kilmarnock Mr Graham Bailey graham@gbpro.co.uk

SPIN ADMIN LIMITED Galston Mrs Tamara Campbell Spinevents@outlook.com

COMFORT EUROPE Newmilns Mrs Liz Turley lizturley@comfort.global

HELPING HANDS Kilmarnock Mrs Joanne Fisher joannefisher21@gmail.com

STATKRAFT UK LTD Glasgow Ms Ruth Semple ruth.semple@statkraft.com

CONNECT SITE SERVICES LIMITED Kilmarnock Miss Laura Cannon laura.cannon@connectsiteservices.co.uk

HOLLY BLUE CREATIVE Kilmarnock Ms Shirley Husband shirleyhusband@hollybluecreative.co.uk

SURE-NET LTD Kilmarnock Mr Stuart Little stuart.little@sure-net.co.uk

We want to recruit more members to strengthen your business network and create more business opportunities for you. We are asking you to help by referring companies you know to us. When they join, we’ll reward you with a choice of special offers to help your business.

Call the membership team on 01292 678666 or visit the referral page on our website.

NEW HEAD GREENKEEPER AT BALLOCHMYLE GOLF CLUB Ballochmyle Golf Club in Mauchline were delighted to welcome new Head Greenkeeper Chris McGhee at the start of February. Chris comes to Ballochmyle from Prestwick Golf Club, he brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the club. Since starting Chris and the existing greenkeeping staff have been working on drainage issues, repair of the sprinkler system and general tidying up of the course

and pathways around it. Members are already seeing signs of great improvement. Chris said “I’m thrilled to be given this opportunity at Ballochmyle Golf Club and I will do my best to give the members a course they can be proud of”.

Ballochmyle is an 18 hole parkland course in beautiful surroundings in the heart of Burns country, the course has strong connections with Scotland’s National Bard. The inspirational views and natural beauty inspired two of his most famous songs “Farewell to the Braes o’ Ballochmyle” and “The Bonny Lass o’ Ballochmyle”.

The course has some of the best amenities around, with an extensive bar/lounge, restaurant serving fresh food daily and has panoramic views of the course. It also has spacious locker and changing facilities which make it the ideal venue for a great days golf or just to meet up with friends.

New members are made welcome and can benefit from discounted fees in their first year, juniors under 14 are free to join, social membership is also available.

For more information please contact: ballochmyle.secretary@ballochmylegolfclub. com

27 YOUR BUSINESS | SPRING 2021

NEW MEMBERS

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