Business Matters Mag Summer 24

President’s welcome

Dear Members,

Welcome to the latest edition of our popular Business Matters magazine.

By the time you read this, the 2024 General Election result will be known, and a new UK Government formed following the nationwide poll on the 4th of July. The Scottish Chambers network has called on the new government to prioritise economic growth and job creation.

The economy is a top three issue for the Scottish Chamber network and the 12,0000 companies represented are the drivers of economic growth and employ millions of people. We are calling for a clear focus on resolving the issues holding our economy back and stopping investment in jobs. Demands on the new government include four key areas: Unleashing Business Growth, Accelerating Investment, Boosting Global Trade and Prioritising People & Talent.

Key priorities include a commitment to no new taxes or levies on business for the lifetime of the next Parliament, investment in a Green Industrial Strategy, boosting global trade, developing a skilled workforce, a detailed just transition plan for the oil and gas sector, and cutting VAT across the hospitality, leisure, and tourism sectors.

On Thurs 20th June Renfrewshire Chamber enjoyed a great evening of entertainment, networking, speeches and celebration to recognise our Diamond Anniversary at a civic reception at the iconic and historic Paisley Town Hall. Renfrewshire Schools Pipe Band entertained our guests on arrival. Renfrewshire’s very own, Renfrew Burgh Band, opened proceedings with brilliant music and their very own tribute to the Proclaimers 500 miles.

Our generous host, Provost of Renfrewshire, Lorraine Cameron, opened our speeches welcoming the Chamber membership and noted the optimism and enthusiasm for doing business in Renfrewshire. Renfrewshire’s Andrew Malcolm of The Malcolm Group spoke on behalf of our members to acknowledge the positive contribution of the Chamber to our membership community in Renfrewshire and beyond. The talented Paisley buddy Laura B. entertained us with songs from artists throughout Renfrewshire.

I greatly enjoyed celebrating the very best of Renfrewshire and our Chamber with our members, esteemed guests, friends of the Chamber, past-presidents and board members, chamber team, and of course, our current board. We look forward to the next 60 years supporting you, our members.

My congratulations go to chamber member Terumo Aortic who have been honoured to receive the highly prestigious King’s Award for Enterprise in the Innovation category. This very special award is in recognition of the company’s custom solutions programme for treating complex aortic disease (subject to local regulatory approval).

The King’s Awards for Enterprise, previously known as The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise, represent the highest honour for businesses and individuals in the United Kingdom. They are granted to a very small number of UK businesses across all disciplines and recognise outstanding achievement in the fields of innovation, international trade and sustainable development.

This year’s King’s Awards are now open for entries until 12th September, and I would encourage you to consider

applying, more details on how to apply on page 31.

As usual at this time of year we do not have any events over the summer period however the Chamber team will be launching Rocco 2024 in the coming weeks. Winning a Rocco Award is a great opportunity to recognise the success and achievements of your business in the last 12 months and shines a spotlight on all the impressive organisations in our network. Entry is free and open to all members regardless of location. If you are a non-member your business must be based in Renfrewshire. There will be categories relevant to all sizes and sectors of business. 2024 marks the 20th edition of the Roccos and so to take a trophy home this year will be extra special.

Finally, I hope you all get the opportunity to enjoy time off during the summer break and recharge your batteries with friends and family.

Kind regards

A warm welcome from our Chief Executive

Thank you to all our exhibitors, speakers & sponsors who attended Renfrewshire Connect. As the largest free business event in the area, it was a great opportunity to see the breadth and depth of businesses in the area and truly “Connect & Grow”. We aim to return for our 13th year in 2025 and encourage all businesses and local organisations to get involved.

On Thursday 20th June we enjoyed a fantastic night celebrating the first 60 years of the Chamber and thank you to Provost Cameron in marking the milestone with the honour of a civic reception. Our strong business community in Renfrewshire continues to grow and the evening demonstrated the area’s strengths as a key business location. Here’s to the next 60 years and beyond.

STEM Fortnight returns in October 2024 – could you support? We are seeking organisations who can provide an activity for a young person in a STEM

related environment (Science, Technology, Engineering & Maths). With the importance of manufacturing & technology as a sector to Renfrewshire, it is important we help promote the career opportunities to our next generation.

We are supporting Career Ready, the social mobility charity, attract new mentors as they expand their programme into more secondary schools across Renfrewshire. The programme provides young people from lower socio - economic backgrounds with the skills, knowledge, confidence and support networks to progress to positive post-school destinations. If you can offer time to help these young people as a mentor please visit https://careerready.org. uk/1000futures to find out more.

Finally, Rocco 2024 will open for entries in early August. Entry is free and open to all members regardless of location. If you are a non-member your business must be based in Renfrewshire. There will be categories relevant to all sizes and sectors of business.

Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce

Bute Court, St Andrews Drive, Glasgow Airport, PA3 2SW t: 0141 847 5450 / f: 0141 847 5499 e: info@renfrewshirechamber.com / w: www.renfrewshirechamber.com

Business Matters Summer 2024

Next issue of Business Matters is Autumn 2024 Deadline for editorial and adverts is 20th September 2024 Themes are Rocco shortlist / export / logistics & transport / manufacturing Advertising & Editorial: Contact Jill Carrino t: 07702 909474 / e: jcarrino@renfrewshirechamber.com Print and Design by: The Print Brokers (Scotland) Ltd / e: sales@theprintbrokers.co.uk

Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce would like to acknowledge the support of our Premier Partners: “ I’d like to update

Follow the chamber:

I hope you have a great Summer and best

Brand New Ford Dealership Opens in Glasgow

TrustFord, the UK’s largest Ford dealer group, has opened the doors to its latest new dealership at 21 Napier Road, Hillington Park, Glasgow.

Following a tour of the newly opened site, Lisa Brankin, Chair and Managing Director, Ford of Britain, and Ireland, cut the ribbon on Tuesday 18th June alongside Stuart Mustoe, Chief Executive Officer of TrustFord; TrustFord’s Board and Leadership team and guests from TrustFord and Ford of Britain.

TrustFord’s state of the art facility covers almost 4 acres, including 29,000 square feet of showroom and workshop space dedicated to new cars, vans, Motability, servicing, and fleet operations. To meet the anticipated demand, 50 colleagues have been recruited and trained in recent months, increasing the number of TrustFord colleagues employed in Scotland to 175. The opening of the new site represents TrustFord’s ongoing investment in the region adding to their existing fleet, Parts Plus and Mobile Service operations.

Customers can also take advantage of wider shopping choices including home delivery, phone, or live video appointments and TrustFord Now which enables customers to drive a used car or van home within one hour. TrustFord also

provides support for fleet customers in the area interested in discussing car, van, or aftersales needs.

The new BREEAM “Excellent” development has the highest environmental specifications, including air-source heat pumps to reduce emissions from heating and solar PV panels to generate electricity. The use of LED lighting and roof lights to maximise natural light also improves energy efficiency.

Stuart Mustoe, Chief Executive Officer of TrustFord, said: “We are delighted to open the doors to our new energy efficient, stateof-the-art dealership in Glasgow, which is integral to our ongoing sustainability strategy.

This significant investment represents our long-term commitment to supporting Ford customers in Glasgow and the west of Scotland.

It has been a privilege to spend time with the new team and to thank them in person for their hard work ahead of today’s opening.

I wish the team every success in the months and years ahead.’’

Chair and Managing Director, Ford of Britain and Ireland, Lisa Brankin said:

“I am hugely impressed with this spectacular new site which will provide a fantastic platform for Ford’s latest new

passenger and commercial vehicles, including the new Kuga and Puma, all new E-Custom and Explorer.

I would like to thank the TrustFord board and their team for all their support in bringing this new location to life and I wish the Glasgow team every success in the future.”

TrustFord already operates PartsPlus operations in Glasgow, Dundee, and Aberdeen, as well as a Fleet business supported by our Mobile Service and workshop network.

The Dealer Group also celebrated the official opening of their state-of-the-art dealership at Craigshaw Crescent, West Tullos Industrial Estate, Aberdeen which first opened its doors in March 2024, on Wednesday 19th June.

Call in to TrustFord Glasgow for a friendly chat or visit www.trustford.co.uk/TheWorld-of-TrustFord to explore the World of TrustFord.

Anyone interested in joining the award-winning Group, should visit www. trustfordjobs.co.uk to find out more and apply. As well as being listed as a Great Place to Work, the Dealer Group is listed as one of the ‘Best Workplaces™ for Wellbeing’ by Great Place to Work UK, the global authority on workplace culture.

Ford of Britain and Ireland Chair and Managing Director, Lisa Brankin, cuts the ribbon at opening of new Ford Dealership at Hillington Park

Glasgow named Airport of the Year for second year running and Project CAELUS wins Most Innovative Transport Project AGS AIRPORTS SCOOPS DOUBLE AT SCOTTISH TRANSPORT AWARDS

Glasgow Airport was named Airport of the Year at the Scottish Transport Awards – one of two accolades picked up by AGS Airports last night (Thursday 20 June).

The Project CAELUS consortium led by AGS Airports in partnership with NHS Scotland was also named the Most Innovative Transport Project.

CAELUS (Care & Equity – Healthcare Logistics UAS Scotland), is part funded from the Future Flight Challenge at UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) to research what will be the UK’s first medical distribution network using drones has launched its next phase.

Glasgow picked up its second consecutive Airport of the Year award after the judging panel praised the transport hub for its operation excellence and efforts to continually improve the passenger experience.

Mark Beveridge, Managing Director of Glasgow Airport, said: “We are thrilled to have been named Scotland’s Airport of the Year for the second consecutive year.

“Our wider airport community employs thousands of people across more than 100 companies, but we each have the same desire and drive to ensure our passengers enjoy an excellent customer experience. We focus on ensuring the passenger is at the heart of everything we do, so it is great to see that the judging panel has once again recognised the remarkable work being done day in, day out by our people.”

Fiona Smith, AGS Airports Group Head of Aerodrome Strategy and CAELUS Project Director, said: “We were delighted when we heard we had been shortlisted in the Scottish Transport Awards earlier this year, so to win is a fantastic achievement.

“Our team will be carrying out more live flight trials later this year to showcase how we can revolutionise the way healthcare services are delivered in Scotland and to provide equity of care.

“This award is testament to the hard work carried out by all the partners involved in this consortium and I thank them all as we continue onto the next phase of the project.”

More…

Cabinet Secretary for Transport Fiona Hyslop MSP and host Jo Caufield welcomed hundreds of industry professionals to the event last night to celebrate the people and organisations that make a real difference to transport across Scotland.

On the same night, Glasgow Airport also picked up the Best Brand Development Award at the Marketing Society Star Awards for the ‘Go For It Campaign’.

Airport of the Year

Project CAELUS team

It has been a Year of Renovations and Upgrades at Altrad Babcock

The Renfrew site has undergone a significant transformation over the past year, marking a period of intense activity and transition. As part of the comprehensive renovation plan, all staff were temporarily relocated to Innovation House, enabling a thorough refurbishment of the Technology and Engineering building –which has now been renamed as the Innovation Hub.

The move, though challenging, allowed uninterrupted workflow and ensured that renovation activities could proceed efficiently. The Innovation Hub’s facelift included modernised office spaces, new lighting systems, and upgraded collaborative areas, all aimed at fostering a more dynamic and innovative work environment.

With the completion of the renovations, employees have now moved back into the building and have settled into their rejuvenated surroundings. The new spaces have been met with enthusiasm, with staff appreciating the modernised infrastructure that supports both productivity and creativity.

As the team settled back in, attention turned to another crucial upgrade — the heating system within the technology workshops. Collaborating with local contractor MHSL Services, based in the Abbey Mill Business Centre. The outdated heating system was replaced with a state-of-the-art high level heating solution designed to improve energy efficiency and provide a more comfortable working environment.

In total eight old units were replaced with multiple access platforms and a 35m telehandler. A completely new control system was installed bringing our heating system up to the latest standards in control and efficiency.

This upgrade is expected to significantly reduce energy costs and environmental impact, aligning with the site’s commitment to sustainability.

Graeme Dowson, Head of Facilities commented; “the professionalism of the team from MHSL Services was first class. Working with a local supply chain contractor within the Renfrewshire community for a tight deadline project ensures faster communication, quicker delivery times, and easier quality control, enhancing overall efficiency and reliability.”

With the renovations complete and the new heating system in place, the site is well-equipped to meet the demands of the future.

INGLISTON ESTATE & COUNTRY CLUB IS A PICTURESQUE 100-ACRE PRIVATE ESTATE, WHICH IS SYNONYMOUS WITH EXCEPTIONAL FACILITIES FOR BUSINESS AND PLEASURE.

Our corporate offering includes a variety of events and meeting spaces, from board room meetings to large events and conferences accommodating from 10 to 500 delegates.

Conveniently located just 10 minutes west of Glasgow Airport and 25 minutes from Glasgow City Centre in Bishopton, We offer four internal event spaces, all individually designed to suit your business needs: With some of the most versatile business facilities in the country our venue boasts sophisticated and comfortable surroundings, with the latest technology and business equipment.

Our private hire suites have a capacity for between 10 and 500 delegates. Whether you’re organising a top-level Conference, Strategy Meeting, Award Show, or Corporate Event, we are the perfect destination.

Offering four internal event spaces, all individually designed to suit your business needs. This is also supported by external spaces and terraces for use for external dining events or activities: the mix of facilities on offer allows our clients to plan interesting, engaging, and memorable events.

We are further supported by our 30-bedroom boutique hotel, 14 luxury Alpine lodges and award-winning restaurant, Palomino’s and of course Ingliston’ s prestigious Equestrian Centre all encompassed in an idyllic countryside setting. As a family-owned business, family values are at the heart of everything we do. This is demonstrated every day through our experienced, friendly and professional team – who are always happy to help and discuss any requirements you may have.

Clydebank Campus 0141 951 7555

Greenock Campus 01475 553 044

Paisley Campus 0141 581 2121

Transforming Futures with West College Scotland and The Prince’s Trust

West College Scotland has partnered with The Prince’s Trust Scotland to offer innovative programmes designed to introduce local young people to career in the engineering, manufacturing, and electrical industries. This partnership aims to provide young individuals from Renfrewshire with opportunities to explore career paths, gain essential skills, and take their first steps towards further education.

The Prince’s Trust Schools Transition Programme focuses on personal and social development. Providing practical advice and skills to young people with unclear paths after education, the programme offers industry-specific training, personal development qualifications, or Prince’s Trust certifications.

The collaboration which ran in May this year, featured three unique programmes to engage and empower young people. The School-to-College Transition programme provided pupils from Park Mains High School the chance to gain practical electrical experience in the College’s Paisley campus workshops, giving them a handson insight into future career opportunities.

The ‘Get Into’ placement programme offered real-world experience in the electrical industry, potentially leading to apprenticeships. Additionally, the Engineering and Manufacturing Career Pathway Partnership introduced participants to these dynamic fields through mentorship and practical experiences, in collaboration with the National Manufacturing Institute Scotland (NMIS).

In addition to this last month the College, again collaborated with The Prince’s Trust and NMIS, to deliver a summer programme to young people in Renfrewshire,

encouraging careers in engineering. The programme included hands-on learning in Paisley Engineering workshops and site visits to NMIS’s Manufacturing Skills Academy, offering insights into Scotland’s diverse engineering sector.

William Burgoyne Jnr, Curriculum Quality Leader at West, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership: “We are thrilled to work with The Prince’s Trust to offer these transformative programmes to young people in our community. We aim to inspire and empower the next generation

of engineers, manufacturers, and skilled professionals, ensuring a brighter future for all.”

Kara Mearns, Partnership Development Manager at The Prince’s Trust, highlighted the long-standing relationship: “The Prince’s Trust is delighted to continue our partnership with West, which has provided skills development opportunities for young people in the region for 11 years. We are excited to support young people in gaining valuable skills with these latest programmes.”

Empowering Renfrewshire SMEs:

West College Scotland and Renfrewshire Council

Launch Net Zero Workforce Development Fund

In partnership with Renfrewshire Council, West College Scotland is delighted to deliver the Renfrewshire Net Zero Workforce Development Fund (NZWDF).

Scotland.

This newly available funding aims to equip up to 40 Renfrewshire based small & medium enterprises to build their infrastructure and be able to equip their workforces with the skills and competencies needed to deliver new, or enhanced, net zero services to their business customers, in turn helping them to meet their Net Zero and sustainability goals whilst maximizing the opportunities for participating SMEs to grow their business.

Through a small grant programme participating SMEs will have access to expert training and support from West College Scotland, as well as support to leverage additional funding and advice.

West College is proud to offer access to the funding, significantly supporting Renfrewshire’s contribution towards the achievement of Net Zero goals.

work with a leading heating manufacturer for their renewable products - this would not have been possible without the qualifications gained from West College

To access the funding, the following 3 key eligibility criteria must be met:

The company must be:

Small to medium sized enterprise

Based within the private sector

Registered address in Renfrewshire council area

To find out more visit the College’s website.

‘We recently completed air source heat pump training with the College to help our business expand into the renewable energy industry. The course was very well presented, and all the staff were first class in their approach. I look forward to working with them again in the future.’

Paul Campbell, Director, Campbell Gas

Jon O’Brien, Owner/ Director, Energy Tech

‘With the College’s guidance we have increased our knowledge and confidence in this new area and have the certification to move forward in the renewable energy field. Since completing the course, our company been successful in gaining service contract

HILLINGTON PARK IS ABUZZ WITH ACTIVITY

Trade counter, industrial and storage units available now to let 1,000 - 15,000 sq ft

The buzz coming from Hillington Park right now is not just from the bee hives that sit in a quiet area of the estate but from the new businesses that have moved in, the opening of a major new, modern vehicle showroom, and the continuing infrastructure improvements across the estate.

TrustFord opened its new 29,000 sq ft ultra-modern vehicle showroom and service facility – a bespoke £6m build by Frasers Property - and it catches the eyes of everyone who passes along Hillington Road. And with over 40 new members of its team, and parking for over 170 vehicles, it has become a major hub for Ford in the west of Scotland.

The diversity of businesses trading on the estate has also been boosted with the arrival of specialist commercial training company High Reach Training, fast growing corporate merchandising company Go Swag, and Pretty Scenic, a successful scenery designer and builder for the movie, TV and theatre industries.

The estate’s infrastructure has also been enhanced with the expansion of the CCTV security system and road improvement and repairs undertaken by both Renfrewshire Council and Frasers Property.

Grant Edmondson, Commercial Director for Hillington Park said: “Seeing TrustFord’s

new development open after a successful build project is very pleasing for everyone involved and adds another high profile automotive brand to the estate which already includes Jaguar, BMW, Harley Davidson, Ducati and Volvo. Smaller, but no less ambitious, businesses continue to be attracted to the Park’s location and wide range of commercial properties and they see the estate as central to their growth and we’re delighted to welcome them.

“The ongoing modernisation of the estate is also a big part of the work going on here and the enhancement of the estate wide CCTV system is very important for

businesses. We’ve also been very pleased to have worked closely with Renfrewshire Council on necessary road repairs, and that will continue.”

Pretty Scenic

Pretty Scenic

Hillington Bees

High Reach Training

TrustFord

High Reach Training

Glasgow Clan Ice Hockey Club

As the Glasgow Clan Ice Hockey Club gears up for its fourteenth season, there’s more excitement off the ice than ever before. With a commitment to providing an unparalleled experience for fans, the Clan has revamped its hospitality offerings, setting a new standard for sports entertainment in the city.

The latest addition to the Clan’s hospitality repertoire is the Clansman Lounge, a bar and lounge built for fans seeking to elevate their game day experience. For a fixed fee, Clan fans can enjoy complimentary pre-game food and beverages before taking to our famous ‘Fist Bump Zone’ where they can help

hype up the Glasgow Clan players before they take to the ice.

Having enjoyed a very successful launch year, the Glasgow Clan is proud to announce the next phase of its hospitality evolution: the introduction of a purposebuilt bar. This new addition will further enhance the hospitality experience, offering an expanded selection of draught beers and both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

The decision to upgrade the Clansman Lounge underscores the Glasgow Clan’s unwavering commitment to providing exceptional hospitality to its supporters. By continually innovating and refining its offerings, the club aims to create

memories that transcend the thrill of the game itself, leaving fans eagerly anticipating their next visit to the arena.

In a city renowned for its passion for sports, the Glasgow Clan stands at the forefront of delivering an unforgettable spectator experience. With the introduction of the Clansman Lounge and its forthcoming enhancements, the club is poised to redefine the standard of hospitality in the world of ice hockey in Scotland.

Join us for Season 2024/25 when it starts in September. Email office@ clanihc.com for more information or to book.

CLANIHC.com

Muirhead unveils innovative neurodiversefriendly aircraft seat designs

Muirhead, a Scottish Leather Group business, has developed pioneering new designs for neurodiverse-friendly aircraft seat covers, which seek to deliver a more inclusive and positive travel experience.

The Renfrewshire business hopes its innovative approach will inspire designers who specialise in aviation interiors as they consider the future aircraft cabin.

The range was created by Scottish Leather Group’s aviation division, Muirhead, which was founded in 1840 and is a world-leading supplier of low carbon, high performance aviation leather.

The collection was designed to address common barriers to travel for neurodivergent passengers, including those with neurological or developmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder, learning impairments, or ADHD. It is estimated that up to 80% of disabled individuals live with a non-visible disability.

Jamie O’Donnell, Designer at Muirhead, said: “Air travel can be overwhelming for anyone, but especially for neurodivergent individuals who tend to have heightened sensitivities compared to neurotypical travellers. Seat covers play a vital role in providing them with comfort and a sense of security, enabling them to better regulate their emotions onboard.

While the industry is making strides towards accessible and inclusive cabin design, many current approaches tend to be overly medicalised or infantilising towards adults with non-visible disabilities. The inclusive cabin of the future must balance functionality with aesthetic appeal.”

To guide the design process, Muirhead worked closely with Scottish disability consultancy VIA, conducted extensive research, and spoke directly with neurodivergent individuals who have faced barriers while travelling.

The new collection features a soothing

monochromatic palette of greens, blues, and neutrals to evoke a calming atmosphere. It also harnesses advanced digital printing capabilities to include signage and patterns that could help passengers locate their seats and process their environment.

Other key features of the new Muirhead collection include a variety of bespoke leather embosses, highlighting the importance of textures in curating a multisensory experience for neurodivergent travellers.

Neurodiversefriendly aviation collection.

Muirhead’s ‘Sensation’ collection is designed to improve the travel experience for everyone, embracing individuals with non-visible disabilities.

The collection provides inspiration for CMF designers and embodies our vision for the future of people-focused aircraft seat covers that cater to the needs of neurodivergent passengers.

NMIS hires industry heavyweight as electrification lead

NMIS has appointed Professor Matt Boyle OBE as its new director of electrification to drive the centre’s work on power electronics and semiconductors.

Matt Boyle is a serial entrepreneur and technologist and has a wealth of experience in the UK’s transport and power electronics, machines and drives (PEMD) sector. He joins NMIS, operated by the University of Strathclyde, from Newcastle University where he was the Chair of the Driving the Electric Revolution Innovation Centre (DER-IC), which helps industry to de-risk investments in manufacturing processes.

As the current chair of the North East Automotive Alliance, Matt is responsible for one of the largest automotive clusters in Europe and has previous expertise as the managing director of Turntide Transport and Collingwood Solutions Limited, working across automotive, aerospace, energy and other industrial sectors. He was also the interim Challenge Director for Innovate UK’s Driving the Electric Revolution initiative.

Earlier in his career, Matt spent two decades leading Sevcon – a vehicle power electronics company with operations worldwide – and was responsible for its listing on the NASDAQ exchange and, latterly, its sale to BorgWarner for $200 million. He was appointed an OBE in the 2018 New Year’s Honours List for services to

engineering and skills.

In his new position at NMIS, which is part of the UK’s High Value Manufacturing (HVM) Catapult, Matt will lead the organisation’s focus on the production of critical power electronics technologies, which has a global market projected to reach $52.8 billion in value by 2032[1]. His role will include engagement across the University of Strathclyde and its innovation centres, such as PNDC, to help accelerate the industrialisation and commercialisation of new manufacturing approaches.

Together, transforming

Chris Courtney, CEO of NMIS, said: “I’m delighted that someone of Matt’s calibre has joined our leadership team. He will lead an already strong team in an area of critical importance. We will benefit significantly from Matt’s experience, knowledge of industry and connectivity across the UK ecosystem to help drive forward power electronics and semiconductor innovation. There is a huge opportunity and a strong capability cluster in Scotland already, with high growth potential companies and leading-edge research.”

NMIS bolsters board with two industry powerhouses

The National Manufacturing Institute Scotland (NMIS) has strengthened its non-executive board with the appointment of highly experienced and influential industry leaders Neil Logan and Allan Cook CBE. The duo bring extensive leadership in engineering, manufacturing and digital entrepreneurship to the board. Their expertise will support the leadership team and help NMIS continue to deliver transformative impact across the manufacturing community in Scotland and beyond.

Neil Logan has a broad range of experience and a passion for leading and supporting innovative businesses grow and succeed. He is the former CEO and co-founder of Incremental Group, where he spearheaded projects and strategies to

support the company’s growth through to its successful sale in 2022. Neil also served as the chair of The Data Lab from 2014 to 2018, where he played a pivotal role in supporting the organisation’s mission of generating economic value from data science and analytics.

Allan Cook CBE is a renowned industrial engineer and business leader with expertise in the automotive, aerospace, and defence industries. Most recently he was: Chair of global engineering consultancy, Atkins; the High Value Manufacturing Catapult; and, HS2. Allan served as chief executive at Cobham PLC and has held senior executive roles at GEC-Marconi, BAE Systems, and Hughes Aircraft and is currently chair of the Materials Innovation Leadership Group for the Henry Royce Institute.

Together, transforming the future of manufacturing.

Matt Boyle

Allan Cook

Neil Logan

Together, transforming the future of

Together, transforming the future of manufacturing.

Revolutionising skills, productivity and innovation to attract investment and make Scotland a global leader in advanced manufacturing. nmis.scot

Buddie Walk of Fame

The first 10 paving stones for Paisley’s Buddie Walk of Fame have been unveiled as stars from the world of music, art, TV, film and sport are honoured in their hometown!

Featuring the town’s sons and daughters as voted for by the people of the Paisley, the first ten ‘stars’ include: John Byrne, outside Paisley Library, High Street

Gerry Rafferty, outside The Bungalow music venue on Shuttle Street

Tom Conti, outside newly refurbished Paisley Arts Centre, on New Street

Paolo Nutini, outside Castelvecchi, his parent’s chip shop, on New Street

Phyllis Logan’s star is on Causeyside Street, outside Phelps Butchers

David Tennant’s stone is on Glasgow Road, close to his former school, Paisley Grammar

Gerard Butler’s is outside The Exchange – on Old Sneddon Street

– soon to be Scotland’s first purposebuilt Youth Theatre

Actor Fulton Mackay’s stone is on Gilmour Street

Local boxing legend, Norrie Sweeney, had his stone unveiled on Storie Street, close to his old boxing gym

And last but not least, Paisley’s Mill

Girls have been commemorated with a stone situated on Bridge Street, overlooking the old mill with landmarks, Paisley Abbey and Paisley Town Hall in the background

The trail also reflects on the town’s rich heritage and features key landmarks throughout Paisley First BID area.

The project has been driven by Paisley’s Business Improvement District, Paisley First, which is fully funded by the town centre’s local businesses, along with support from Renfrewshire Council’s Culture, Heritage and Events Fund (CHEF).

The Culture Heritage and Event Fund is administered by OneRen on

behalf of Renfrewshire Council. It is part of Future Paisley, the council-led programme of events, activity and targeted investment which is using Paisley’s unique and internationally significant story to change its future.

The 10 stones on the trail were created by CED Stone Scotland and their partners Scribble Stone before being installed, free of charge, by John McGeady Limited whose Managing Director, Tom Crumlish, is a Paisley Buddie.

We were inundated with nominations for the Buddie Walk of Fame, but the people of Paisley made it clear that these were the favourites to be celebrated in this first phase.

We’re looking forward to welcoming visitors to follow the trail and enjoy everything our town has to offer.

The Buddie Walk of Fame truly is the perfect to celebrate the achievements of Buddies the world over and help inspire a younger generation to achieve their dreams.

Scottish childcare social enterprise goes green and increases capacity by 20%

ARenfrewshire childcare social enterprise has launched a stateof-the-art sustainable wellbeing hub to meet increased demand for its existing services for children with special needs, thanks to skills learned through the Help to Grow: Management Course.

KLAS Care was founded in 2010 by Lesley Compston, a registered childminder with a degree in Childhood Practice, and Kirsty McKenzie after they struggled to find affordable and flexible childcare in the local area.

The social enterprise is designed to support families living in poverty by giving parents the time to access full and part time education, training or employment. The pair spent the early years building a dedicated team of childcare professionals and organically growing registrations, before investing in a purpose-built facility at East Fulton Primary School in 2014. It now provides pay-as-you-go care across two sites in Renfrewshire.

However, the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic presented new challenges for KLAS Care. Registrations declined, and Lesley struggled with imposter syndrome, making decision-making increasingly difficult. Recognising the need for change to ensure sustained growth, Lesley enrolled in a 12-week Help to Grow: Management Course, designed to help business leaders and senior managers increase resilience, innovation and growth, to help her rebuild her confidence and become a more effective leader.

The course was delivered by the University of West Scotland School of Business and Creative Industries – a recipient of the Small Business Charter accreditation which recognises institutions that support small businesses. It gave Lesley the skills she needed to realign her leadership team to support the business’ growth and enhance its social impact.

Following completion of the course, Lesley launched a new wellbeing hub at the East Fulton Primary School site. Built using renewable energy sources such as solar panels and battery storage units, the hub not only increases KLAS Care’s capacity by more than 20% to 500, but also provides children with special needs a conducive environment for self-regulation through

innovative amenities like mood lighting, fidget toys and yoga mats.

Lesley Compston, co-founder of KLAS Care, said: “Our journey began with a simply desire to support families in our community with dependable, flexible childcare. Little did Kirsty and I anticipate that nearly 15 years later, we would still be here, providing care to hundreds of children across the district.

“Despite our remarkable momentum and rapid growth, the challenges of the post-pandemic era promoted us to reassess and fortify our strategies for the future. This meant implementing changes for the

business and for me personally.

“Thanks to the Help to Grow: Management Course, I’ve had the opportunity to redefine our leadership approach and implement changes that foster an environment for people to thrive. I’m now more focused on where people’s strengths lie and how to get the most out of our team, and I’ve regained my confidence to make important decisions.”

Flora Hamilton, Executive Director, Small Business Charter, added: “Lesley is a great example of how business schools can support SMEs in their local community through the Help to Grow: Management Course.

“Designed by SME experts for the benefit of business leaders, this course equips participants with the essential skills, knowledge and confidence to create and execute achievable goals that make a tangible difference to their business.

Lesley’s dedication to accessible childcare and sustainability is really inspiring, and it’s great to see her delivering such impact within the local community.

“We wish the entire KLAS Care team every success as they venture into the next phase of their journey.”

Business leaders can find out more about Help to Grow: Management and sign up for the course in their area by visiting: www.smallbusinesscharter.org/help-togrow-management.

the 0300 300 1180

Sponsored by:

RENFREWSHIRE CONNECT 2024

Renfrewshire Chamber held its 12th annual B2B event on Thursday 16th May. Renfrewshire Connect took place in the Lagoon, Paisley with the goal to help businesses Connect, Grow and Learn. The event was sponsored by Invest in Renfrewshire with the day attracting over 400 attendees and 50 exhibitors. The well attended 6 free seminars shared info & gave best practice on a range of hot topics:

Seminar Line up:

• Regeneration and Business Support with Renfrewshire Council

• “Cool Tools for AI success” with Gary Ennis from NSDesign

• How to grow your business through International Trade with Renfrewshire Chamber

• How to shift your mindset from “Selling” to “Serving” with Peter Barclay from Sales Geek

• The Importance of Video as a Business Communication Tool with Dangerous Studio

• How to make blogging your website’s secret weapon! With Colin Kelly from Comsteria.

Commenting on the event Chamber CEO Bob Grant said “We enjoyed a great day of networking and learning at Renfrewshire’s largest B2B event. Thank you to all our exhibitors, speakers & sponsors. We aim to return for our 13th year in 2025 and encourage all businesses and local organisations to support the event. As the largest free business event in the area it is a great opportunity to see a wide range of businesses in Renfrewshire and beyond, make lots of new connections, network & learn from others.”

Colette Saez, Renfrewshire Council

Andy Robin, Paisley Museum Reimagined

Colin Kelly, Comsteria

Gary Ennis, NSDesign

Peter Barclay, Sales Geek

Graeme McLatchie, Paisley Is

Scott Anderson, Dangerous Studios

Stuart Hamilton, Renfrewshire Chamber

President Derek J McNab

Stewart Dee, DBT Scotland

Pupils from Gleniffer HS get connected

Networking

Neil Bibby MSP & Joanna Baxter MP

Main Sponsor Invest in Renfrewshire

Invest Team

Exhibitors

DYW team ready for summer

in action

Chamber Celebrates 60th Diamond Anniversary with Civic Reception

On Thursday 20th June Renfrewshire Chamber marked its 60th Diamond Anniversary.

Thanks to the generosity of Provost of Renfrewshire, Lorraine Cameron, in supporting a civic reception, birthday celebrations took place in the iconic and historic A-listed Paisley Town Hall, which has been a centrepiece of life in Renfrewshire for 140 years.

Over 150 members, staff, past presidents, directors and friends of the Chamber enjoyed a fantastic evening reflecting on the first 60 years and looked forward to the future with excitement and ambition for Renfrewshire.

Guests were well entertained with outstanding performances from Renfrew Burgh Band, Renfrewshire Schools Pipe Band and singer Laura B in a Paisley tribute to famous artists.

Chamber President Derek J McNab welcomed guests to the newly refurbished

Town Hall and Provost Cameron reflected on the importance of the Chamber’s role in the wider Renfrewshire community.

Senior member Andrew Malcolm, CEO of the Malcolm Group replied on behalf of the members highlighting the benefits of being a member and the support the Chamber delivers.

Guests also enjoyed a video history of Renfrewshire with a look forward to the future for our business community. A series of happy birthday messages from key partners rounded off the evening.

Bob Grant, Chief Executive said “Thanks to everyone who joined us for a fantastic night celebrating the first 60 years of the Chamber and thank you to Provost Cameron in giving the Chamber the honour of a civic reception. Our strong business community in Renfrewshire continues to grow and demonstrates the area’s strengths as a key business location. Here’s to the next 60 years and beyond!”

Members, Staff, Past Presidents, Directors & friends celebrate 60 years of Renfrewshire Chamber

Renfrewshire Provost Lorraine Cameron

Andrew Malcolm MBE The Malcolm Group

President Derek J McNab

60th Event

Linda Morton & Past President Tom Johnston with Stuart Murray Development Mgr RCC

Speakers Andrew Malcolm, Lorraine Cameron & Derek J McNab

Signing the giant card

Renfrew Burgh Band

Past Presidents Tom Johnston, Liz Connolly & John Wylie

Paisley Singer Laura B

First President M. Allan Whyte

Chamber Team

Celebration Video

Band Conductor Mark Good

60th Event

60th Event

60th Event

Renfrewshire Schools Pipe Band

Chamber Pictures

Up and Coming Events

See our events section on our website: www.renfrewshirechamber.com • 0141 847 5450 events@renfrewshirechamber.com

Pitch & Roll Networking Thurs 12th September, 8:00am-9:15am Abbymill Business Centre, FOC for members

HR Forum with MacRoberts: Employment law Update Tues 24th September, 12 pm – 2 pm, Chamber Business Centre. FOC for members

Chamber Connect Thurs 19th September, 10am-11.30am With True Origin and Engage Renfrewshire. FOC for members

Chamber Connect Thurs 12th October 10am-11.30am With Paisley Art Centre, FOC for members

Rocco Awards 2024: Friday 15th November at the Normandy Hotel with Host Fred MacAuley

facebook.com/renfrewshirechamberofcommerce

twitter.com/renfrewshirecoc

Follow the chamber:

Celebrating 60th Birthday

Chamber Golf Day Mar Hall

June Lunch Speaker Nick Muirhead with Derek J McNab

Chamber Team @ 60th

June Lunch at Lynnhurst Hotel

Chamber Connect with Beyond HR & Accord

Nick Murihead CEO Scottish Leather Group

Chamber Connect with Lynn & Alan from Spex Appeal

June Pitch & Roll

Chamber Connect with Dangerous Studio

New members

On behalf of the Board of Directors and the Chamber staff, we would like to welcome onboard the following new members.

Janine Marriott SEO

Janine Marriott 07947 600888

janine@janinemarriott.com

Hermes Business Solutions

Pete Richards 03301 758 880 pete@hermes-ltd.co.uk

Olden Goldies

Barbara Davey 0141 390 2183 barbara@oldengoldies.co.uk

Framing Art

Sundeep Shan 0141 885 0444 sunny@framing-art.co.uk

Dargavel Digital Ltd

Paul Caruana 07437010710 paul@dargaveldigital.com

Wincanton

Derek Stirling 01505 468 993

derek.stirling@wincanton.co.uk

Electrasure

Andrew Lauder 0141 374 0403  info@electrasure.co.uk

NorDan UK Ltd

Mark Kellock 01506 379 280

Mark.Kellock@NorDan.co.uk

McStitchy & Co

John Morton 07831 178606 john@mcstitchyandco.com

BL Consultancy

Bonnie Lowson 07954544481

bonnielowson2@gmail.com

Renfrewshire Chamber Golf Day – The Winners

DXC Technology

David Cleghorn (0)330 105 9075 david.cleghorn@dxc.com

TrustFord Glasgow Car & Transit Centre

Motor vehicle dealer in Scotland

James McLaren 0141 487 6769 james.mclaren@trustford.co.uk

We Are Brass Tacks Ltd

Integrated Culture Change Agency

Dee McNaught 0141 212 2481

dee.mcnaught@wearebrasstacks.com

Elle Marie Property

Estate Agent

Louise Kane 0141 673 4439

Louise@ellemarieproperty.co.uk

Ashleigh (Scotland) Limited

Construction Company

Colin Pyke 01292 692 100 i.forbes@ashleigh-scot.co.uk

The Chamber’s annual Golf Challenge took place on Friday 14th June at Mar Hall Golf & Spa Resort, Bishopton. The event saw fifteen teams compete for the top prizes and the honour of being crowned Chamber Golf Champion of the Year. This year team Wilson Washrooms did the double by winning the team prize and player Charlie McKinly taking the trophy home with the highest individual score: We had the following winners on the day: Individual Winner: Charlie McKinly from team Wilson Washrooms. Winning Team: Wilson Washrooms. Nearest the Pin: Billy McCulloch from Team Thermofisher

Longest Drive: Steven McManus from Team Azets.

Chamber Chief Exec Bob Grant commented: “Thank you to all the teams who took part to support the chamber golf day and your kind generosity with raffle prizes and tickets. We raised £1,000 for chamber charity St Vincent’s Hospice & they have expressed their thanks. Overall we were lucky with the weather and were very well looked after by the golf pro team and catering staff at Mar Hall. We hope to see you for the Chamber Golf Challenge in 2025!”

Longest Drive - Steven McManus from Team Azets

Nearest the Pin - Billy McCulloch from Team Thermofisher Winning Team - Wilson Washrooms

Individual Winner - Charlie McKinly

RECRUITMENT AND TAX CONCERNS THREATEN TO UNDERMINE GROWTH IN SCOTTISH ECONOMY

Although the leading business survey shows that confidence and trading conditions have improved slightly among Scottish firms, it remains at a relatively low base.

The Scottish Chambers of Commerce’s Quarterly Economic Indicator also reports continuing investment and recruitment challenges alongside increasing concern from taxation.

Scotland’s largest business network is now calling upon government north and south of the border to deliver a long-term economic plan, which supports a just transition, address skills shortages and unlocks investment across the country.

Taxation overtook inflation as the leading concern, while fears over competition saw the largest increase (40%) compared to the previous quarter (30%).

Stephen Leckie, President of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce said: “Taxation continues to concern firms, to the extent that the issue has overtaken inflation as the leading concern.

“This is having a major impact in attracting and retaining talent in Scotland, contributing to the significant labour challenges many businesses are already experiencing. Divergence on personal taxation has exacerbated the issue.

“Businesses will be looking to both the Scottish and UK government to set out long-term plans to address the current state of taxation which is impacting growth, investment and talent.”

Recruitment difficulties increased from 47% to 55% compared to the last quarter, largely driven by challenges across the retail and tourism sectors. Labour costs are impacting three quarters of firms.

Mr Leckie added: “Our report shows that over half of Scottish businesses are continuing to experience significant costs and challenges with attracting and retaining the talent they need.

“More restrictive changes to the immigration system made earlier this year, the increase in the national minimum wage, and skills shortages, are all adding pressure on employers.

“The UK Government should address this by introducing a skilled migration strategy which is tailored to the needs of the Scottish economy and restore our reputation as a welcoming and open destination for international students to study, live and work.”

Q2 saw significant improvement in terms of cashflow and profits for firms - particularly profits - with growth on balance recorded for both trends.

Mr Leckie warned: “Our latest survey indicates generally improving business conditions across the economy, albeit significant challenges continue to persist which are limiting the ceiling on potential growth and investment.

“The impetus to deliver a credible plan for sustainable growth lies with both the Scottish and UK Government. Now must be the moment to focus on long-term solutions to tackle poor productivity and create an environment for business investment to accelerate.

“The first step is engaging with businesses in Scotland and across the UK, to instil confidence in a new partnership between

government and the private sector which is ready to propel our economy to growth and identify how initiatives such as the National Wealth Fund will support Scottish business.”

The report highlighted that although around four in 10 firms are still holding back on investment, that number was slightly down on the previous quarter.

Mr Leckie commented: “It’s positive that the survey results are beginning to see a reversal in the consistent trend of frozen investment. Without unlocking investment, firms cannot power the growth the economy needs and which government is relying on to grow the public finances.

“Significant cost pressures, trade barriers and skills shortages, are critical factors to address if we are to see investment across growth sectors such as AI and green technologies.

“To support a just transition, the oil and gas sector urgently needs action and a plan that will give them the confidence to unlock investment worth hundreds of millions which is currently on hold due to uncertainty over the UK Government’s commitment to the sector.”

How to leverage the power of online reviews for your business

Online reviews can make or break a small business – but even the negative ones can be an opportunity for small businesses to show how they fix problems.

Let’s look at the importance of online reviews for your business, and how to respond to both the good and bad reviews when you get them.

Why reviews matter

We get it: the idea of opening the floodgates to people saying anything and everything they want about your business is scary. But reviews are everywhere – if you have a Google profile or Facebook page, these automatically come with a feature for people to leave reviews, so you’ll probably get some whether you want them or not.

Think about the last time you ran a Google search for a local restaurant, shop or tradesperson. You probably saw their aggregate Google review ratings before you even clicked through to any websites. Maybe you even scrolled through the reviews themselves.

This is exactly what people will do when your business comes up in their Google or social search results – even if you’re not signed up to a dedicated review service like TrustPilot.

Reviews are powerful because they’re evidence of social proof: most of us don’t want to try something until someone else has tried it first. So why not take charge of your own reviews strategy and start generating some good buzz about your business online?!

Why you need to ask for good reviews

Let’s start with the bad news: negative reviews are easy to get, because people will go out of their way to complain when they’re annoyed. Conversely, when customers are satisfied, they don’t feel the same need to share this with the world. That’s why you have to work harder to get positive reviews.

You need a strategy to reach out to the many customers who are delighted with your service or product, and are happy to share it online when asked. Think about how you can build review requests into your processes, e.g. sending customers an

email shortly after purchase with a link to your preferred review platform.

How to respond to reviews

There are definitely some “dos and don’ts” for responding to reviews.

Do

Respond to all reviews, even negative ones (see below for what not to say when responding to the latter!).

Read each review carefully. While a stock response (or one generated using ChatGPT) is better than no response, it’s certainly not as good as an individually tailored reply to reach review.

Make it personal. Sign off with your name. Replying to reviews is your chance to show the human face of the business, so make sure the face has a name!

Don’t

Ignore reviews. Too many businesses just let their reviews accumulate without ever responding. This makes it look like your business doesn’t care about its customers. Hit back at negative reviews. We know, this one’s hard. When someone slates your business, it hurts – whether their criticism is justified or not. However, always take the high road and respond politely. If you are at fault in any way, acknowledge it and explain that you’ll do your best to try and rectify it – do this well, and your negative reviews

could even bring you new sales! Get into a back and forth public conversation. Try this general thumb of thumb for responding to negative reviews: “Respond in public, resolve in private”. Constantly going back and forth with an angry customer doesn’t leave a good impression on other customers, and remember that most social media algorithms prioritise content based on engagement, so too many replies back, and that negative review is being pushed right to the top!

Skimp on the replies to positive reviews. A glowing review of your business deserves more than a quick “thanks for the great review!” in reply. When someone has had a great experience, this is the perfect opportunity to talk about your passion for the business and your delight in making customers happy.

Remember that “Customer Service is the new Marketing” (as said by Jay Baer in the brilliant “Hug Your Haters” book), so ensuring positive social proof from others is vital – the people become your marketing!

For more help with your digital marketing, get booked onto one of our digital marketing webinars, buy the bestselling social media book (with a whole chapter dedicated to dealing with online reviews!), or book a 1-to-1 with our team of consultants.

Rooms available for hire at Glasgow Airport

• Ideal for meetings, interviews, training, seminars & workshops

• 4 rooms, space for 1-20 people • Free wifi & free parking

• New LED screens - HDMI & VGA ports

• Catering available • Price guarantee

Glasgow Airport Business Centre

c/o Renfrewshire Chamber

Bute Court, St Andrew's Drive Glasgow Airport PA3 2SW 0141 847 5450

info@renfrewshirechamber.com www.renfrewshirechamber.com

The Kings Awards for Enterprise

The King’s Awards for Enterprise (KAE) are the most prestigious awards for UK businesses, given for outstanding achievement in the categories of: innovation international trade sustainable development promoting opportunity through social mobility

KAE recipients exemplify the finest talent, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit of British business.

To be eligible to apply, organisations must be based in the UK with at least two full-time UK employees (or part-time equivalents) and be a self-contained enterprise under its own management arrangements with its own accounts.

The King’s Awards for Enterprise are free to enter and open to organisations from the private, public and not-for-profit sectors. Organisations can apply for more than one category of the Award.

Full eligibility criteria for each category, and details of how to

apply can be found at:

The King’s Awards for Enterprise: About the awardsGOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

A small Lieutenancy committee is able to provide further advice and support for prospective applicants contactable through Mrs Linda Hutchison, Clerk to the Renfrewshire Lieutenancy at:

linda.hutchison@eastrenfrewshire.gov.uk

The King’s Awards for Enterprise was previously known as The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise. The new name reflects His Majesty The King’s desire to continue the legacy of Queen Elizabeth II by recognising outstanding UK businesses.

The Award programme is now in its 57th year and has recognised over 7,000 companies since its inception in 1965. Applications for the 2025 Awards close at 1.00 pm on 12 September 2024. Successful organisations will be announced on Coronation Day, 6 May 2025.

Peter T McCarthy

HM Lord-Lieutenant of Renfrewshire

CONNECTING THE UNCONNECTED

If you have ever wanted to streamline your operations and enhance your business’s potential, then X402 could be the answer. No matter the sector or size, your business likely utilises various systems—warehouse management, billing, customer liaison, delivery—that, while effective individually, often lack cohesive integration. This disconnect can hinder your business’s efficiency and growth.

Managing a business becomes significantly more challenging when operations are disjointed. How can your team build momentum when information doesn’t flow seamlessly between departments? Picture the struggle of a plate-spinner: no matter how much attention you give each system, it’s never enough. Without proper integration, you’re faced with manual workarounds, repetitive tasks and human error. Yet those plates could be taught to spin each other.

The solution doesn’t necessarily require an overhaul. Sometimes, a bit of digital

glue is all it takes. X402 specialise in this, integrating disparate software systems— whether bespoke or off-the-shelf— allowing them to communicate effectively.

Many businesses use Sage 50, for example, which is something of a lone wolf in the software world. With X402’s SageLinX, however, it can be easily integrated, automatically importing financial data from various sources into Sage 50 and streamlining processes like invoice management and data entry.

For more complex needs, their flagship service, XSite, is a universal B2B integration and EDI platform. It can seamlessly connect any business software, eliminating the need for manual intervention. Operating entirely in the cloud, XSite is maintenance-free and managed via a user-friendly web portal. You can integrate internal and external systems, manage data exchanges and enhance overall efficiency.

X402 also offer bespoke CRM systems, improving customer relationship

management across sectors like logistics and renewables. These allow you to manage customer details, create quotes, track jobs, and integrate with third-party systems, ultimately fostering better customer relationships.

X402’s ERP system streamlines customer, supplier and sales order management, providing comprehensive oversight from point of sale to dispatch. With features like RFID integration and asset management, it enhances transparency and efficiency.

Finally, for businesses needing a significant transformation, X402 build bespoke systems tailored to your needs, or offer a consultancy service to devise the perfect digital framework for growth.

X402’s values of connection, partnership and transformation drive everything they do. Talk to them to get your business flowing smoothly.

Tel: 0141 530 3402 Email: enquiries@x402.com Web: x402.com

Gordon Foley Consulting

Gordon Foley Consulting is an independent Health, Safety and Risk Management Consultancy.

We are a group of experienced health and safety consultants who work closely with our clients operating across all sectors in the UK and Internationally, to provide practical and valuable support to manage health and safety risk.

Our aim is to identify and assess our clients’ needs to ensure that we deliver a bespoke, effective service. We pride ourselves on the quality of our delivery and ensuring all our clients are thoroughly satisfied with the support we provide.

We offer flexible, tiered, and costeffective bespoke competent support packages to clients who either do not have their own in-house expertise, or who want

additional support in specialist areas of health and safety to stay compliant with current health and safety law.

Our support services include Gap Analysis, Compliance, Audits and Inspections, Accident and Incident Investigation, Expert Advice, and Training (both in-person and e-learning).

We have also developed a range of tools and techniques for improving health and safety behaviours in the workplace. These form part of our own ABC (Active Behavioural Change) in Safety programme to help you positively transform your organisational safety culture. At the heart of this programme lies the importance of engaging with all colleagues in the workplace to support the development of positive values, knowledge and attitudes,

and partnerships ensure that your organisation not only meets legal requirements, but also fosters a safe and productive work environment.

For further information and to discuss our range of health and safety consultancy services, please contact us at Gordon Foley Consulting by email to info@gordonfoley.com or by phone at 0141 286 5810 You can also visit our website at www.gordon-foley.com

Wincanton expands to support Scottish business with supply chain excellence

Wincanton is the UK’s premier partner for supply chain solutions. It works with clients of all sizes and sectors, from the world’s leading corporations to the most beloved British brands.

The diversity of Wincanton’s customer base allows it to achieve the most successful partnerships. It supports many of the top retailers in the UK, as well as the major grocers, FMCG and general merchandise brands, by running their entire transport and warehousing operations, and by enhancing their operations with the latest products and technology.

Wincanton’s experience and skills in handling complex supply chains enable it to power some of the biggest infrastructure projects in the world, while ensuring compliance, safety and agility, and respecting local environments and communities throughout the process.

Strong expertise in large infrastructure projects allows Wincanton to customise

solutions to meet specific needs, to deliver projects smoothly and successfully, and to offer the flexibility to adapt its support to any project stage.

Wincanton is a trusted provider of materials to the global defence and industrial sectors, many with bases in Scotland, delivering them where they are needed, safely and reliably, and safeguarding the security of our UK borders and beyond.

Earlier this year, Wincanton expanded its Scottish operations with a new distribution centre in Bellshill, North Lanarkshire. The company has secured a 15-year lease for the 127,000 sq ft unit, which will complement its existing hub in Motherwell. The deal marks one of the largest industrial deals in Scotland this year and reflects Wincanton’s growth and commitment to the region.

Derek Stirling, Country Manager for Scotland at Wincanton, said: “The new distribution centre, our second

in Scotland within two years, reinforces our long-term commitment to Scotland and promises enhanced services and efficiencies for our customers and partners across the country.”

Email: derek.stirling@wincanton.co.uk www.wincanton.co.uk

Adman Int Limited

Welcome to Adman Int Limited... your trusted professional partner in passive fire protection. We exist to minimise the risk of damage to your building, its people, and your reputation. Based in the heart of Paisley at the Abbey Mill Business Centre our thriving business works with clients across Scotland in Construction, Education, Transport, Health, Social Housing and Retail.

Fire safety isn’t just a requirement; it’s a commitment to protect the things that matter most to you, and we’ve dedicated ourselves to becoming industry leaders in passive fire protection. Our comprehensive range of solutions includes fire door surveys, fire door remediation and passive fire protection.

Fire door surveys assess the condition

and effectiveness of fire doors within a building. Fire door remediation addresses any deficiencies identified during a fire door survey, ensuring that fire doors meet the required safety standards. Passive fire protection or fire stopping prevents the spread of fire, smoke, and toxic gases through openings and penetrations in building structures.

Firestopping is a vital component of passive fire protection systems. Often during maintenance, repairs or minor remodelling, a tradesperson can unknowingly destroy the integrity of a fire-resistant structure by creating minor cavities in floors, ceilings, or walls. That’s just one of the ways your building can develop these potentially dangerous spaces. Adman is delighted to have been awarded a place on the Scotland Excel Framework,

widely known throughout Scotland for its expertise in public procurement and the third sector. We’re members of Construction Line, The Fire Protection Association and have Safe Contractor accreditation. We ensure compliance and hold ISO accreditations in Quality (9001), Environment (14001) and Health and Safety (45001).

We are BM Trada certified in Fire Door Maintenance, Installation and firestopping providing you with the security of the international gold standard of independent accreditation for best practice material testing, inspection, and certification for products used in the fire and building industry.

Our business is to protect yours.

Please visit our website on www. admanint.co.uk and get in touch today!

Barrack Charitable Trust commits £52,000 of support to 25 charities across Scotland

Erskine-based veterans charity is a major beneficiary

The Barrack Charitable Trust is donating £52,000 to 25 worthwhile charitable organisations across Scotland, in its latest tranche of donations for 2024. 5 of the charities are located in and around Glasgow and Renfrewshire. Major beneficiaries this time around include Scotland’s Bravest Manufacturing Company (SBMC), based in Erskine, Renfrewshire. The charity is Scotland’s leading award-winning social enterprise and a market leader in the production of signs and provides employment, training and support to vulnerable and disadvantaged military veterans and people with disabilities and health conditions. It has received £5,000 towards the running costs for the Accredited Training Centre Project over the coming year, which supports lifeworks employability courses for veterans.

Robert Lappin, Assistant Director of SBMC said: “I would like to thank The Barrack Charitable Trust for providing a generous donation towards the cost of running our Accredited Training Centre. Glasgow Caledonian University has identified a wide range of positive benefits for the participants of our training programme and we look forward to sharing the findings of the evaluation this summer. This donation means a great deal to us as it means we can support the veterans and other beneficiaries to achieve the qualifications they have put so much time and effort into and it also means we can develop our training and qualification offering. Thank you very much for choosing to support Scotland’s Bravest.”

James Barrack, Trust Chairman added: “We are incredibly honoured to support Scotland’s Bravest Manufacturing Company, which is dedicated to providing employment, training, and support to our most deserving community members. We believe in the power of inclusive and empowering opportunities, and we are proud to contribute to a cause that makes a profound impact on so many lives. Together, we can build a brighter future for those who have given so much to us.”

Other charities being supported around

Glasgow and Renfrewshire include Deafblind Scotland, Geeza Break, Revive MS Support and Loud’n’Proud from Paisley.

· Deafblind Scotland, based in Lenzie, has received a £1,500 donation for their “Right to Dreamers” project. This initiative offers deafblind individuals the opportunity to experience the benefits of singing in a choir. Participants will perform at the Deafblind Scotland AGM and later at Glasgow Central Station

during the Christmas season.

Glasgow-based Geeza Break has received £1,000 for the “Geeza Chance” project, which supports around 48 young people moving from parents to living with other family members. Support is provided over an 11 week period, with 2 overnight residentials

Revive MS Support has received £1,500 for help upscale key-stage vocational rehabilitation for 40 people (mainly women) offering a tailored combination of clinical support, information and coproducing a treatment plan specific to the individual’s needs.

Loud’n’Proud from Paisley offers music education and performance opportunities for young people. The charity has received £1,000 funding to go towards refurbishing their fire-damaged building, resulting in 5 fully soundproofed practice rooms.

Established in 2009 by Knight Property Group Founder and Chairman James Barrack, the Trust aims to assist organisations cope with the decrease in charitable donations for specific projects due to the economic climate faced at the time. In recent times, this has been increasingly vital. The Trust is solely supported by Knight Property Group.

Renfrewshire Council Updates:

Renfrewshire’s Provost encourages residents to get their cowboy boots on for MND Scotland

Renfrewshire’s Provost Lorraine Cameron is encouraging Renfrewshire residents to dust off their cowboy boots and help her raise money for MND Scotland at a Scottish themed hoedown this August.

The event will be held at Barnhill Farm in Inchinnan on Saturday 17 August, with tickets priced at £60 per person. Tickets include food, music from world renowned rock ceilidh band ‘Bahookie’, and line dancing with Calamity Carol. Provost Cameron is supporting a different charity for every year of her term in office, choosing MND Scotland for 2024. MND Scotland was founded as the Scottish Motor Neurone Disease Association in 1981 by John Macleod, a Strathclyde police officer and his wife Peigi. At the time, services were limited, and health professionals had little or no knowledge of the condition. Today, MND Scotland strive to reduce the impact of MND on the lives of those affected, by offering services such as benefits advice, equipment loans, counselling, advocacy, and a grants programme.

Provost Cameron said: “MND Scotland is a fantastic charity who not only provide incredible support to people who have motor neurone disease and their families, but who are working towards finding meaningful new treatments for this devastating life limiting illness. It is particularly close to my heart as I lost my own mum to this awful disease in June 2011. I know firsthand not only the emotional impact of caring for a loved one with MND, but also the incredible work MND Scotland did to help us through diagnosis and beyond. Although MND has become more recognised through the media in recent years due to the sad deaths of some very

well known names, it’s important that we continue to raise funds to enable clinical trials with the hopes of prolonging the quality of life of those who are diagnosed and of course we hope one day a cure can be found.”

“The hoedown is going to be a great night and I hope many of you will be able to come along and join me. Not only is it in a real barn, but we’ll also have great music, fantastic dancing, and there might even be some prizes for the best dressed cowboy and cowgirl! It’s BYOB so there won’t be an expensive bar on the night, meaning any spare cash can go straight towards supporting this amazing cause. Dust off those cowboy boots, get your gang together and book your tickets online today.”

Tickets can be purchased online through Eventbrite at https://www.eventbrite. co.uk/e/provost-camerons-hoedown-formnd-scotland-tickets-934372171317

Follow Provost Cameron on Facebook at

www.facebook.com/RenfrewshireProvost for all the latest updates.

Renfrewshire Council Updates:

Construction on new Paisley Grammar School Community Campus underway

Construction work is now underway to create the new modern home for Paisley Grammar School on vacant land near the town’s Renfrew Road. The state-ofthe-art facility — due to open by August 2026 — will both replace the existing school and provide a community campus for the local area.

The £85.5million project is being delivered by Renfrewshire Council, supported by funding from the Scottish Government’s Learning Estate Improvement Programme. The new campus is being built within the site of a wider development, which will transform transport links in the north of Paisley and help create safer access to the school.

Main contractors Morrison Construction have been on site since March delivering groundworks to prepare the land for the main building work.

The ground-breaking ceremony was conducted by some of the current S1 to S3 pupils, who will be among the first young people to move into the school when it opens.

They were joined by Paisley Grammar School head teacher Janice Levens, who said: “For us as a school, this will open up so many opportunities. When you come on site and you see the space, you start to get excited.

“We love the building we are in, and it has a lot of history attached, but it isn’t modern enough, so we can’t wait to get into this new one. We’re looking forward to the sense of space we will have here, both inside and outside the building.”

The location of the school also allows a close partnership with the neighbouring West College Scotland campus, with potential to expand the range of subjects on offer to pupils.

Renfrewshire Council’s Director of Children’s Services, Janie O’Neill, added: “The old Paisley Grammar building has served generations of pupils well for more than 100 years but the needs of learners and teachers have changed — and the new school will be purpose built to meet them.

“Not only will it be an energy-efficient building with state-of-the-art facilities for sports and practical subjects and 21stcentury learning and teaching, but it will be an asset for the whole Paisley community, who will be able to use those facilities outof-school hours.”

David Ewing, Managing Director for Morrison Construction Building Central, said: “As a leading contractor in the education sector, we are delighted to work again with Renfrewshire Council and Scottish Futures Trust on the delivery of the new Paisley Grammar School Community Campus.

“It’s great to see work commence in earnest and we look forward to delivering this high-quality facility that will make a positive contribution to the local community.”

The school was design by leading architects Ryder Architecture. Chris Malcolm, partner at Ryder, said: “The design clearly expresses the collective educational vision for the new Paisley Grammar School Community Campus, and the new learning spaces that it will create are going to be sustainable, exciting and inspirational for its users.”

Renfrewshire Council

Renfrewshire pupils race for success in ‘Goblin car’ STEM project

Pupils from eight Renfrewshire primary schools raced handcrafted ‘Goblin cars’ in a special event held at Kames racecourse, East Ayrshire.

The project initiated by Glasgow Caledonian University and Royal Navy — and funded by the Royal Society — saw more than 700 pupils from Bargarran, Brediland, Fordbank, Langcraigs, Our Lady of Peace, St Anthony’s, Todholm and Wallace primary schools work with their teachers and parents to build their very own electric racing cars that could reach up to 20mph.

Pupils began working on the project nine months ago by taking part in workshops facilitated by engineering students from Glasgow Caledonian and the Royal Navy. On top of racing cars, pupils also worked with Glasgow Caledonian game-design

students to develop a racing video game.

David Rigmand, head teacher of Wallace Primary, said: “It’s been great to see the children involved develop skills for life and work, and to make a connection with a university and see the opportunities out there in engineering.

“They have also learned that engineering is multifaceted and hands-on, and getting to do this in collaboration with other schools and the university has been an exciting experience for them.”

Professor Patricia Munoz de Escalona, project lead from Glasgow Caledonian’s Mechanical Engineering department, said: “The idea was to get children hands-on with the engineering of an electric car and open their eyes to STEM careers. They’ve learned about aerodynamics, composites, design and car manufacturing along the way.”

The cars have been designed that they

can be dismantled and re-built, meaning the pupils who built the cars will be able to teach their younger peers how to build them in future years.

Renfrewshire Council Updates:

Johnstone school first ever in Scotland to earn gold Kitemark award for music

St Anthony’s Primary School has become the first school in Scotland to achieve a gold Kitemark award for music.

Presented to the school by We Make Music Scotland as part of the We Make Music Awards and the Music Education Partnership Group (MEPG) Scotland network, the We Make Music Kitemark for Schools (Gold Level) celebrates the musical achievements of pupils and the commitment by staff and parents to encourage everyone to take part in and learn through music.

Pupils are encouraged to take up music and singing at a level that suits them, such as being part of a choir, playing instruments, singing along with classmates and performing on stage in concerts and stage shows.

St Anthony’s were also the first school outside of the US to perform Frozen, supported by Scottish Opera and Disney.

Head teacher Jacqui McBurnie said: “I am so proud and delighted that all the hard work and determination to deliver a high quality musically experience for our children, along with the passion for music that exists in our school, has been recognised with us receiving this award.”

John Wallace CBE, MEPG convener from We Make Music Scotland, added: “St Anthony’s is an amazing school. How many schools would you go into to find the P1 teacher with a saxophone slung around his neck, and the P7 teacher strumming a guitar? The commitment of its headteacher, teachers, support staff, children, and parents (who played with the children in the orchestra) to a rich quality, holistic learning environment is life-affirming and is an example to us all. After experiencing their music making, I genuinely feel we should up their gold award to platinum!”

Schools Updates:

Pupils from Gleniffer High School visited Renfrewshire Connect as part of their school Enrichment programme.

The pupils were tasked with interacting with exhibitors and finding out more about their businesses in order to improve their communication and networking skills. Pupils thoroughly enjoyed the experience and definitely improved their skills.

St Benedict’s High School attend June Networking Lunch Gleniffer HS Gets Connected

PJohnstone High

Johnstone High again this year ( just like 2023 ) won the 2024 Regional Young Enterprise Scotland team award and made it through to regional finals.

December 23, schools from Renfrewshire, East Renfrewshire and Inverclyde took part in Braehead Trades Fair.

upils & staff from St Benedict’s High School attended the recent June Chamber networking lunch at the Lynnhurst Hotel, Johnstone. Speaking on the day was Nick Muirhead, CEO of Scottish Leather Group.

At the regional awards in March 24 at Normandy hotel, Johnstone High won overall for best presentation, interview and advertising campaign.

May 24 at Hampden Stadium they came 3rd overall at nationals.

The DXC Digital Futures Academy

For the past few months DYW West have been supporting DXC, the global IT services company based in Erskine, with their fantastic Digital Futures Academy (DFA). The programme aims to educate & inspire the next generation of STEM students by developing their digital & tech skills in automation, big data, virtual reality and coding as well as help develop their confidence and soft skills.

Background to the DXC DFA:

The first year of the four-year DXC Digital Futures Academy (DFA) has just completed at their Erskine site. The DFA builds on a successful pilot with the Manchester United Foundation (DXC are a sponsor) and the Scottish DFA is supported by the team at DYW West.

50+ S2 pupils from 8 schools in the region were selected following an extensive application and interview process: Renfrewshire (Castlehead & Renfrew High School), East Renfrewshire (Eastwood & Woodfarm High School), Inverclyde (Clydeview Academy & Notre Dame High School) and West Dunbartonshire (Vale of Leven Academy & St Peter the Apostle High School). The pupils will attend the DFA once a month from S2 to S5.

Derek Allison, Vice President UK Public Sector, Aerospace and Defence at DXC Technology commented “We are proud to extend this fantastic initiative into Scotland and use our technology skills to drive a positive impact in local communities in the UK. With the Digital Futures Academy, our

colleagues are using their energy, passion and technical expertise to educate and inspire young people in their academic and professional journeys.”

Graeme Day, Scottish Minister for Higher and Further Education and Minister for Veterans who is responsible for DYW said “It is fantastic that DXC Technology are working in partnership with DYW West to launch their Scottish pilot of the Digital Futures Academy. As the world becomes more digitally connected, the Digital Futures Academy is an excellent opportunity for young people from the region to learn about new technologies and enhance and develop their skills relevant for all industries.”

The DYW West team have been really impressed with how DXC have invested

and prepared for the DFA, through their global tech experience, resources and the excellent team of STEM Ambassadors at the Erskine site led by the DFA Programme Lead Michelle Muirhead and her team who have all been amazing. We are planning Yr2 and beyond with DXC over the summer and looking forward to the rest of the programme. Feedback from pupils and educators has been excellent and we can already see the positive impact the DFA is having on pupils’ confidence and delighted also to see new friendships being made.

On the back of the successful DXC DFA, DYW West are keen to speak to other employers that are keen to discuss doing something similar (can be on a smaller scale), please contact DYW West at info@dywwest.co.uk

Update from DYW West –Summer 2024

We are supporting Career Ready, the social mobility charity, attract new mentors as they expand their programme into more secondary schools across the West region. In Renfrewshire, St Benedict’s & Trinity High School are now involved. The programme provides young people from lower socio - economic backgrounds with the skills, knowledge, confidence and support networks to progress to positive post-school destinations.

It involves matching volunteer mentors from employers with local school students during their S5-S6 high school years. Students meet their mentor monthly for 1-1.5 hour per month (at your workplace), and they greatly benefit from a 4-week paid internship in your workplace during the school summer 2025 holiday period.

DYW West Lead Bob Davidson commented “I have supported Career Ready direct myself as a mentor and it was a rewarding experience. I urge

employers to get involved and help make a difference. It’s a manageable commitment and you’ll be making a positive impact on a young person’s future.”

Visit https://careerready.org. uk/1000futures for more info

Quick mention that STEM West 2024 is 18-19th Nov at Clydebank Campus of the college – any STEM related employer that wants to showcase their industry to 800 young people please get in touch via info@dywwest.co.uk

DYW West are seeking employers of all sizes & sectors to help develop the future workforce across Renfrewshire and beyond. For example, could you or your colleagues offer:

• Class talks

• Workplace tours

• Work experience

• Help with CVs / interview skills

• Attend careers events

• Mentor a young person via Career Ready / MCR Pathways

If you are looking to attract young people to your organisation please ask for our free support and remember to post apprenticeship opportunities on www.apprenticeships.scot (free) and tag us in social media to allow us to help market your opportunities. Get in touch via info@dywwest.co.uk

Apprenticeship applications now open!

We’re looking for the next generation of:

• Technicians

• Bodyshop Technicians

• Aftersales Customer Advisors

• Rental Advisors

• Parts Advisors

• Electronic Fire & Security Alarm Engineers

To fi nd out more, search: Arnold Clark Apprenticeships

Diverse