Business Comment 14

Edinburgh shapes up for the festive season

december 2011 january 2012

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Contents

dec 2011 jan 2012 Edinburgh has weathered the recession better than most thanks in some measure to the strength of the tourism sector and in particular the ‘staycationers’ who helped boost summer visitors and, in the process, Scotland’s economy. Like the rest of Scotland, we were heavily dependent on domestic visitors from England, Wales and Northern Ireland, who accounted for 84% of all trips to Scotland.

Despite the global economic downturn visitor spend on tourism in Scotland was estimated to be £1.7bn for the first half of 2011, the major part of that spent here in Edinburgh. The amazing success story that is the Edinburgh’s summer festivals attracted record numbers again this year aided by the fabulous refurbished National Museum of Scotland. It is good to know that where other cities across the globe are struggling to attract visitors, Edinburgh and Scotland’s quality offering and value for money with its promise of excitement, pleasure and satisfaction is exactly what visitors want.

So my thanks to our hoteliers, restaurant and entertainment providers, who create the attractive package that makes Edinburgh a must visit city. And a special thanks to Sir Angus Grossart, his Board, Gordon Rintoul and his staff for completing the refurbishment programme of the magnificent National Museum of Scotland on time and on budget. Their work and an investment of almost £50 million provided sixteen new galleries to take visitors on a journey through the wonders of nature, the cultures of the world and through to science and discovery. With more than 8,000 objects on display in the new area, 80% for the first time in generations, this venue will be a key destination for visitors coming to the city for years to come.

Investment, enthusiasm and energy are the ingredients that have made Edinburgh the destination of choice. All seems well with this sector: Edinburgh was voted one of the most popular destinations in Europe, a fantastic accolade for Scotland’s capital and great for business. Hotel yields are the best in the UK. And there is more to come. Our winter festival made up of Christmas and Hogmanay – with their bright lights and fireworks, they turn the darkness of an Edinburgh winter into a sparkling and joyous place.

Add the huge variety of shows, pantomimes and concerts and our visitors can look forward to the best fun and entertainment available anywhere in the UK. They can also come here knowing that we in Edinburgh are committed to ensuring that each and everyone leaves our city with the fondest of memories of the best of times.

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03 Introduction / contents

04 President Statement

22|23 The Interview

05 Fourth Craw become Partners in Enterprise

07 Capital view

08 Al Gore praises Scotland’s leadership in low carbon economy

19 60 seconds

24|25 Edinburgh’s winter festivals

33 In the spotlight

37 Ask the expert / get with IT

40 Getting started

13 Business news

43 New members

15 Going international

45 Partners in enterprise

46 Movers & shakers

16|17 Inspiring connections

Business Comment is an Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce publication.

All editorial a n d g en eral en qu iries: Edinburgh Chamber Customer Services Team Tel: 0844 736 2992 email: customerservices@edinburghchamber.co.uk Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce, Capital House, 2 Festival Square, Edinburgh EH3 9SU www.edinburghchamber.co.uk President: Robert Carr Chief Executive: Ron Hewitt BUSINESS COM M ENT EDITOR Sharon Duncan, Tel: 0131 221 2976 Email: sharon.duncan@edinburghchamber.co.uk P RO DUCTION & DESIGN Distinctive Publishing, 8th Floor, Aidan House, Sunderland Road, Gateshead NE8 3HU Tel: 0845 884 2385 www.distinctivepublishing.co.uk ADVERTISING Distinctive Publishing, 8th Floor, Aidan House, Sunderland Road, Gateshead NE8 3HU Tel: 0845 884 2345 john.neilson@distinctivepublishing.co.uk FEATURE EDITORS John Dean & Francis Griss deangriss@btinternet.com

Ron Hewitt chief executive

DIS CLAIM ER

Distinctive Publishing or Business Comment cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies that may occur, individual products or services advertised or late entries. No part of this publication may be reproduced or scanned without prior written permission of the publishers and Business Comment.

cover imag e: Edinburgh’s Winter Festivals

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chambernews Statement from Robert Carr, President of the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce I am proud of the achievements of the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce as a dynamic, campaigning organisation, promoting the interests of its members and the economic development of the city of Edinburgh.

from former employees and the PWC investigation. These enquiries continue.

Members can be reassured that practices and processes are now in place to address the risk of this ever happening in the future.

In spite of these pressures on the business, our dedicated and professional staff continued to deliver for our members, while subscriptions remained static for the 4th successive year.

In my time as its President, your Chamber has grown in influence and achievement, continuing the work of my predecessors - Richard Jeffrey and Peter Taylor - and culminating in the award of UK Chamber of the Year in 2010, the first time that accolade had come north of the border.

These achievements were based on strong foundations, above all placing the interests of our members and our city first and foremost in everything we do. As we absorb the impact of uncertainty in the wider economy, austerity in the public sector and, closer to home, damage to our own balance sheet, it will continue to drive everything we do, believe me.

Edinburgh Chamber is not immune from the impact of external or unforeseen circumstances on its own business. Last year, Edinburgh Business Development, a member of the Chamber of Commerce group of companies, sustained a significant trading loss as a consequence of a series of write-downs in the value of its business.

A significant proportion of those writedowns arose as a result of the management by that company of the Smart Exporter project. I want to reassure members that very many lessons have been learned arising out of our experience but it is important to stress that Smart Exporter is a tremendous concept for Scottish business. The export of goods and services overseas is hugely important to our recovery and we support that programme and all that the Scottish Government is doing to promote it. The scale of the project is such, however, that it is right that it should be led by agencies of government working in collaboration with the Scottish Chambers network.

EBD is a separate company with its own Board of Directors. However, its financial performance impacts the Chamber insofar

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I am both proud and humbled by the dedication and application of the Chamber’s staff during a period of turbulence, uncertainty and anxiety. I am also conscious of the contribution of members of staff who have now left the organisation as a result of re-structuring and would wish to place on record on behalf of the Board my thanks to them for all that they did for us during their time with us. robert Carr

as its contribution to the Chamber helps to support its activities.

When the extent of the problems in EBD became known, the Boards of the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce Group of Companies - Edinburgh Business Development (EBD), Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce (ECC) and Chamber Developments Ltd (CDL) - invited PWC to provide an independent analysis of the position.

PWC, working with the Board, approved a recovery plan and re-structuring prepared by the Chamber’s senior management team which significantly reduces the Chamber’s cost base, without adversely affecting the services it offers its members. That plan is now in play, with the support of all of the Boards and partners, especially PWC and Bank of Scotland.

Members will have read in the statement issued on October 5, that a report has been made to Lothian and Borders Police in respect of certain unacceptable practices which came to light following reports

I have also been heartened by the support of partners in institutions and organisations like the City of Edinburgh Council, Scottish Enterprise, government and the media, who all agree with us that the Capital’s Chamber of Commerce is a vital institution and has widespread support as it re-groups and grows once more.

In August this year, our Chief Executive, Ron Hewitt, announced his intention to step down at the end of this year after six years of devoted service. His term of office was characterised by a period of growth and achievement at the Chamber, culminating in the UK Chamber of the Year award in 2010.

His energy, enterprise and ambition for the Chamber, will long be remembered and I am sure you would like to join me in thanking him for his contribution and wish him well with his next venture.

I would also like to thank our members for all of the support and advice they have given us during this difficult period, especially at the Annual General Meeting held on Nov 11th at the City Chambers, when the Chambers accounts and restructuring plan were approved.

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Fourth craw become Partners in enterprise

edinburgh chamber continues to perform British Chambers of Commerce 2011 survey of its Accredited Chambers confirms that Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce is the largest Accredited Chamber in Scotland and is ranked seventh largest in the UK overall. Edinburgh Chamber also achieved the highest growth in new membership in the UK. Edinburgh Chamber also recorded the highest number of event participants in Scotland with 4019 attendees.

Ron Hewitt, Chief Executive of Edinburgh Chamber said: “The Chamber’s success, as always, is the result of a team effort and my thanks go to our staff for their dedication, working above and beyond the call of duty.

Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce are delighted to welcome the latest edition to our “Partners in Enterprise” family – Fourth Craw.

The Fourth Craw are a design company founded in 2003 and provide a full graphic design service to every sector from an independent plumber requiring business cards, to a housing association in need of an annual report that stands out from the rest.

As the design and print partner to the Chamber, it puts them in unique position to offer their services to some outstanding businesses in Edinburgh as well as the rest of the Country.

Graham Birse, of Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce, said: “Fourth Craw have

EMS

demonstrated a strong commitment to business and economic development in Edinburgh. Their acknowledged expertise in design for web or print has positioned them as a valuable asset to many organisations seeking to improve their visibility and brand reputation. Not only are they diligent, professional and effective, they’re also nice people to get along with! Edinburgh Chamber is pleased to be working alongside Fourth Craw as our Partner in Enterprise for creative design- and wish them more success as they grow and prosper.”

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“Importantly, they found time to listen to our members and used the opportunity to re-design our membership offer to focus on the vital features and benefits, namely helping our members grow their business, introduce opportunities to save them money and of course represent their interests.

“I am delighted that we have consolidated our position in Scotland and have made progress in respect of the UK. Our size is important.We are recognised in Westminster and Holyrood as an organisation with a distinctive voice that represents a large number of businesses of all sizes and have an important role to play in positively influencing policy and discussions affecting business.The growth in our members attending events underlines our position as providers of the best networking events programme in Scotland.”

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Tel: 0131 552 4085 December 2011 January 2012

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ADVertoriAl

Scotrail introduces business direct This Winter sees the launch of ScotRail Business Direct – an exciting new service that permits businesses and organisations to work directly with us to purchase rail tickets, identify cost saving opportunities and help us improve the overall value clients derive from travel budgets.

ScotRail Business Direct offers a host of benefits including fee-free transactions – so no hidden booking fees, postal charges*, or Ticket on Departure costs, dedicated account management and support team, and 3rd party ticket collection from any station with a self service ticket machine.You can even upload company travel policy, allocate purchases to specific cost centres, and utilise an intuitive Management Information (MI) suite.

Save favourite journeys, upload traveller details, including travel preferences and choose to have confirmation of booking

references and journey details sent directly to the travellers email or mobile, making it much easier to use rail for business travel.

The online self-book tool is further complemented by our specialist Scotland based telephone support team, ensuring continuity and reliability.

And if you’re planning an ‘away day’ or simply have to get a group of people from A to B, then you can enjoy preferential group rates, with discounts ranging from 20% to 50%**, and that even includes our Caledonian Sleeper.

ScotRail operates 95% of services within Scotland, including the Caledonian Sleeper Service, an overnight service conveniently linking over 40 Scottish towns and cities with London Euston, in the heart of the city.

To find out more, call 08450 700908, or visit www.scotrail.co.uk/businessdirect *Standard postage only. Next Day Delivery incurs a ÂŁ6 fee. **Subject to date/time of travel and availability.

A fresh approach to Business Travel from ScotRail

Let us manage your business travel, while you get on with managing your business.

Arranging business travel for your organisation can be a headache so let ScotRail’s free Business Direct service do all the hard work.

With benefits like these, why not take advantage of this personalised service:

• • • • • •

Fee-free account-managed resource ‘Collect at station’ provision Aides implementation and compliance with travel policy Dedicated specialist Scotland-based support teams Online- and telephone-based ticket fulfilment options More value for your travelling needs

It could save you time, money and a lot of effort.

Visit www.scotrail.co.uk/businessdirect or call 0845 070 09 08 to find out more

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capitalview not so much a city but a way of life raise funds to transform the National Portrait Gallery and National Museums Scotland.

And when they get the response that our museums work received, it’s a great feeling. It must be something about doing projects in your own back yard.

As a new member, I was delighted to be asked to write an article on what it’s like to live and work in the Capital. Mention Edinburgh to family, friends or clients and I’m alway struck by the warmth people seem to have. As a big Ian Rankin fan, I was struck by something he once said: “Edinburgh isn’t so much a city, more a way of life…. I doubt I’ll ever tire of exploring Edinburgh, on foot or in print.” That kind of sums it up for me too.

Originally from the west coast of Scotland, I grew up in Leeds, have worked in London and overseas and yet Edinburgh is where I call home. The weather isn’t always great and we all know it can get pretty cold but on a good day, the views are hard to beat I’d say.

My idea of the perfect day off would involve either a run round Arthurs Seat, a walk on Tyningham beach or a stroll down the Water of Leith. Throw in a coffee, a glass of wine or lunch en route and I’m happy.

For many years now, Edinburgh has also been the place I’ve worked. In 1995 I helped set up Redpath, a strategic communications agency made up of writers and designers.

We don’t promote ourselves as an Edinburgh agency however, rather we see ourselves as a strategic communications agency who happen to be based in Edinburgh. With technology improving all the time, to be fair our location really isn’t an issue, which is why we can be working on projects with clients locally, nationally and overseas (currently Bangladesh!) at the same time.

Iain Lauder Creative Director, Redpath design

Over the years we’ve been involved on some pretty significant projects in the city, most notably the creation of the Scottish Parliament identity in 1999.

Recent work includes the identity of the Edinburgh International Science Festival and print and online communications to help

The last few years have been pretty tough for our industry it would be fair to say. Client budgets are a bit smaller than they were at times but like Edinburgh itself, things are changing. We’re seeing a lot more enquiries coming in of late and there are some very exciting opportunities ahead.

So, as a place to live and work? Edinburgh will do just fine thanks.

Reform Scotland publishes experts’ views in major book on economic outlook Scotland’s Economic Future is edited by the noted economist Professor Sir Donald MacKay, who was an advisor to successive Scottish Secretaries over three decades as well as a consultant to both private and public sector organisations.

His co-editors are the chairman of Reform Scotland Ben Thomson, who is author of one chapter, and the think tank’s director Geoff Mawdsley.

Professor MacKay explains the thinking behind the book:‘It was thought highly desirable to include a number of authors with established business experience. But all the authors are acknowledged as authorities in their chosen subject areas.

‘Some have been or are members of political parties but for most they have no party allegiance or it is unknown to me.“What has mattered is that each author has demonstrated an ability to

analyse and report independently on their chosen area and on the evidence.”

This is the second such book which Prof MacKay has edited. He says:“In 1977 I edited a book,‘Scotland 1980: the Economics of Self Government,’ which included contributions by a number of economists.The format adopted here is similar but not identical. For example, in the 1977 publication each author was given a wide subject area to discuss - here, after the introductory chapter, each author was asked a specific question in order to give greater focus to the discussion.The authors have responded admirably to the challenge.”

The professor added:‘“At the time of the 1977 publication it was not certain that devolution would occur (and it didn’t until 22 years later) and, as was stated in that publication, in economic terms devolution was deliberately designed to maintain the status quo. So it was and is, but that

appears to have been a serious weakness which will be tested in a referendum.“ “The economic arguments have changed very little over time but the political framework has.

The referendum will not and should not be decided on economic grounds alone but, as against the 1979 and 1999 referendums, the option or options posed will have important implications for economic policy and that forms the subject matter of this book. So this is an exercise in political economy as befits the country which gave birth to that concept.”

A limited number of copies are available on a first come first serve basis, Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce members can contact helen.robertson@reformscotland.com to receive their copy by quoting their membership number. www.reformscotland.com

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Businessnews

Al Gore shakes hands with Deputy Chief Executive Graham Birse

Getting down to business (L to R): Edinburgh Chamber President Robert Carr, First Minister Alex Salmond and Chief Executive Ron Hewitt

Al Gore praises Scotland’s leadership in low carbon economy Former US Vice President Al Gore has issued a rallying cry to Scotland’s green industry.

The global environmental campaigner told an audience at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre that the country’s businesses wanted to solve the problems associated with man-made climate change.

He was speaking at The Scottish Low Carbon Investment Conference, which is an essential component of the Scottish Low Carbon Investment Project, a Scottish Government-backed initiative. Other key partners are Scottish Enterprise, Scottish Futures Trust and Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce, the conference organisers.

During his speech, Mr Gore said that the world had reached “the proverbial fork in the road.” Dramatic climatic changes of the past had taken place within a narrow band of just 1°C degree, and now scientists were talking about rises in temperature of 6-7°C. “We are capable of passing a point beyond which these changes are difficult to unravel,” he said.

Mr Gore said that every national academy of science across the globe supported the theory of global warming and that 98 per cent of the most published climate scientists supported this consensus. In answer to a challenge that not everyone accepted the consensus, he answered: “If 98 per cent of doctors said I had heart disease, I would take action.”

Mr Gore said he knew that there had to be an economic imperative to change and that the business community had a massive role to play.

There should be incentives for “patient money” and an attempt to build sustainable capitalism, he added.

He said of the next generation: “They could look back and say ‘What were you thinking?’ I want them to look back and say how did they find the moral courage to rise up and do the right thing? Part of the answer will be that the business and investment community, while some of the politicians were paralysed, matched hearts to heads and found a way.

Director of Operations and Conference Manager Liz McAreavey greats the First Minister

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“I find that on my travels, the business community in many parts of the world wants to be part of the solution, not part of the problem.”

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Renewables Support fund (POWERS) will allow companies to develop prototypes for offshore renewables.

He said: “Scotland is now the only country that provides support all the way from research and development, to prototype development, then testing devices, and on to commercialisation and manufacturing of such machines.”

Delegates were unanimous in their agreement that the investment climate had to improve. More money had to flow into the offshore renewables sector in the short to medium term, to quicken the pace at which largescale offshore projects were coming on stream.

Both Lena Wilson, the Chief Executive of Scottish Enterprise, and Alex Salmond, the First Minister, highlighted some of the success stories already emerging, including Aquamarine Wave Power’s £7m of new funding in its wave power technology in Edinburgh, the £70m investment in the National Renewables Infrastructure Fund (NRIF), with the potential to leverage a further £250m, Scottish and Southern Energy announcing a £3 billion investment in its renewable infrastructure and Mitsubishi announcing its plan to invest £100m in a Centre for Advanced Offshore Wind Turbine Technology in Edinburgh.

Scottish First Minister Alex Salmond said: “We must not let severe but transient economic difficulties deter us from our purpose. If anything, they make it all the more important. All the evidence shows we can grow the overall economy while moving to low carbon.”

Mr Salmond said renewable energy could be worth £3.2 billion in Scotland by 2013-14 and re-stated figures in his government’s economic strategy suggesting that by 2020, 130,000 jobs could be created in the low-carbon economy.

We would like to say a special thank you to Scottish Enterprise, Scottish Government and City of Edinburgh Council for their Support and thanks to sponsors: RBS Group, Lloyds Banking Group, Deloitte, Ernst & Young, PWC, PA Consulting, McGrigors, Quayle Munro, Skanska, Capita Carillion, Anderson Strathern, Napier, SEGEC and Semple Fraser.

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Scotland is now recognised as the “green renewable power-house of the European continent” and delegates were reminded it had 25 per cent of Europe’s offshore wind and tidal power capacity and 10 per cent of its wave energy capacity.

Critics have often said that Scotland is far too small to make any kind of impact on global emissions targets yet speaker after speaker – from the United States, and from Japan, Spain, Norway, Ireland and elsewhere – dismissed such criticism.What mattered was leadership and action to inspire others – and Scotland was leading, and inspiring.

Al Gore said: “Alex Salmond has been inspiring in his determination to release the opportunity Scotland has. I wish we had more like him.Thank God Scotland is providing leadership”.

Jean-Michel Aubertin, Chief Executive of Doosan Power Systems, said: “In a world with little political leadership, this commitment stands out as something unique… The Scottish Government is doing well – it listens and it moves policy when questions are identified.” Øysten Løseth, Chief Executive of Vattenfall, praised the “strong political will and leadership” as a factor in his company coming to Scotland .

Eddie O’Connor, Chief Executive of Mainstream, said: “The world is marching in the same direction and Scotland is at the epicentre.”

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    

Alex Salmond also announced the Prototype Offshore Wind Energy

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ADVertoriAl

east of Scotland Investment Fund (eSIF)

The City of Edinburgh Council is member of a consortium of ten local authorities in the East of Scotland who have joined together to create The East of Scotland Investment Fund (ESIF).

The Fund, modelled upon the successful West of Scotland Loan fund, offers secured loans of up to £50,000 to new and growing, small and medium sized businesses (SMEs).

The current interest rate is 6%. The aim of ESIF is to ensure that good, commercially viable proposals do not fail from a lack of access to finance.

For further information and to download an application form please see www.eastscotinvest.co.uk or email eastscotinvest@edinburgh.gov.uk.

A fund of £5 million has been provided by the nine member local authorities, the Royal Bank of Scotland and the European Regional Development Fund. These resources are now providing funding to SMEs, helping to not only create, but also safeguard jobs within Edinburgh and other member council areas.

Although ESIF cannot provide any more than 50% of a funding package, often the knowledge that ESIF is minded to support the borrower can encourage other funders to lend in these difficult times. Loans are repayable over a maximum of 5 years (initial capital repayment holidays may be considered). The loans are protecting and creating jobs by either providing the borrower company with breathing space in their cash flow or they are earmarked for the development of a project critical to the next stage of the company’s development.

There are some restrictions on the nature of businesses that can be supported. The Council’s Economic Development department work with applicants during the application and appraisal process. If an application is successful the borrower company will have to satisfy certain conditions precedent prior to the loan being granted. All firms borrowing from ESIF are advised to seek independent legal advice.

ESIF does not charge an arrangement fee, recharge its legal costs or penalise early repayment.

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Businessnews A new lease of life for Leith Chamber of Commerce There is a strong and proud tradition of mercantile trading and commerce from Leith, dating back to the middle ages. Its Chamber of Commerce, formed in 1852, was a vital force in promoting business and enterprise in the town. In recent years, with its membership and programme of events incorporated into Edinburgh Chamber, the separate identity has not been fully promoted.

Now a group of enterprising Leith business leaders have decided to revive the Leith Chamber by re-forming their Board and working with Edinburgh Chamber to promote the interests of the private sector in this vital community.

Under the Chairmanship of John Kennedy, a partner in the accountancy firm, Cowan and Partners, the Board of Directors will revive and strengthen the Leith Chamber brand by developing a programme of events, membership promotions and ensuring that the views and opinions of Leith businesses are heard.

John Kennedy said: “Leith Chamber has such a strong tradition that many of us felt it essential that we revive it- and make it relevant to today’s business community. We want to hear from businesses in Leith who want to play a part in their Chamber and have opinions and ideas about its future direction.”

Fully incorporated into the Edinburgh Chamber and chartered in 1852, the Leith Chamber of Commerce retains its own identity and sphere of influence in Leith, which like Edinburgh has continued to enjoy a healthy growing economy both on economic and commercial terms.

Leith Chamber provided a high level of support in the late 1990s to the bid for the Royal Yacht Britannia, which now resides alongside the state of the art Ocean Terminal complex, offering visitors and locals alike superior leisure opportunities for entertainment, shopping and dining experiences against the superb shore line of the Port of Leith.

The Board Members of the re-formed Chamber in Leith are: BOARD OF DIRECTORS:

First Name

Surname

COMPANY

Alan

Coats

HBOS plc

Andrew

Walker

HBJ Gateley-Wareing

Fife

Hyland

Hibernian FC

John

Kennedy

Cowan & Partners CA

John

Kinloch Anderson

Kinloch Anderson Ltd

Keith

Anderson

Port of Leith Housing Association

Nicki

Sturzaker

The BIG Partnership

Paul

Humphrey

Skanska Rashleigh Weatherfoil (Scotland) plc

Ron

Hewitt

Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce

Ron

Kitchin

The Kitchin

Already home to the Scottish Executive, and with a further major west shore development now in its initial stages, the future economic climate for Leith continues to look exciting.

With an ongoing anticipated influx of tourists coming through the port terminal, Leith Chamber has an important objective to ensure that Leith maximises the many benefits to be gained in all areas of business and local community activities.

For further information please contact customerservices@edinburghchamber.co.uk

Thomson Cooper’s in good health Building on its success in winning the Bronze Award from Healthy Working Lives in 2010, Thomson Cooper has now won the Silver Award – the first accountancy firm in Scotland to achieve this.

The firm has been involved in a number of initiatives, including Lifestyle Checks, free fruit in the office and a Fife-wide Pedometer Challenge.

recognised with this prestigious award. We are also very proud of the members of staff who give back to our community by taking part in charity sporting events.”

Partner David Walker said: “We are delighted that our continued commitment to the health and well-being of our staff has been

More information on Healthy Working Lives and its award programme is available at www.healthyworkinglives

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Businessnews Helping small businesses Small and start-up firms in the Capital who are finding it hard to obtain money from the bank are being urged to contact ethical lender DSL Business Finance.

Under Government scheme the Enterprise Finance Guarantee, not-for-profit DSL can provide loans of up to £30,000. This includes firms which can’t get funding from the bank because their idea is considered “too high risk” or they have no security.

DSL began lending to Edinburgh firms three years ago after successfully operating in the West of Scotland since 1983. Its objective is to help small firms set-up and grow, create jobs and obtain investment or communities.

One of those to be helped was Emma Wardell, who set up Scotland’s first

Montessori Arts School, in Liberton Brae with funding from DSL. The school provides places for up to 90 pupils aged 1 to 12. The cash enabled Emma to relocate and expand her existing nursery and independent school into bigger premises and employ more qualified staff.

Emma said: “The loan from DSL has allowed us to properly establish our whole school in a stunning new campus. Applying for the loan was straightforward and the funding panel were extremely constructive in their feedback.

We are now in our ideal location and able to fully realise the school’s potential as an educational centre of excellence.”

Eunice Lancaster, General Manger of DSL, said: “We have seen a sharp increase in the number of firms turning to DSL for cash as the financial downturn has made it more difficult to secure funding from the banks.We can provide loans to businesses even if they have been turned down by the banks. Research shows that 82 per cent clients believe DSL to be their only available source of business finance.

Emma Wardell

“We are considered an ethical lender as we do not take a profit. Any money we make is used to provide more loans to more businesses. We work closely with our clients to get them “loan-ready” and can also give clients marketing, sales and accountancy support.”

For further information on DSL go to www.dsl-businessfinance.co.uk or call 0141 425 2930.

The Bo’ness Hillwalking & Touring Company Grangemouth Road, Bo’ness EH51 0PU Tel: 01506 828999 www.bonesshillwalkingandtouring.com The Bo’ness Hillwalking and Touring Company organize small group trips, maximum 6, around Scotland.

These trips include fully guided “Bag a Munro” Days (certificate on completion) and Glencoe Hidden Valley Days. A qualified Mountain Leader with assistant guide will accompany the group on these trips.

We will provide you with quality waterproof clothing, hats, gloves and rucksack.

We also offer Trossachs, beautiful Perthshire and Forth Valley sightseeing tours in all new luxury vehicles.

WE CAN ALSO ARRANGE BESPOKE TOURS TAILORED TO YOUR INDIVIDUAL REQUIREMENTS.

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Inspiringconnections

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Scottish Low Carbon Investment Conference

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The focus was on the need for Scotland’s low carbon projects and the supply chain to happen in parallel to create a virtuous cycle of investment and growth, and to look at what needed to be done across the energy spectrum – from generation to consumption – to help meet Scotland’s ambitious low carbon 2020 targets.

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Photos by Graham Carnie, Tuskite Photography

The 2nd Annual Scottish Low Carbon Investment Conference featured guest speakers from around the world, including Keynote speaker, the Honorable Al Gore.

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Photos by Graham Carnie, Tuskite Photography

Photos by Graham Carnie, Tuskite Photography

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First Minister Alex Salmond and former Vice President Al Gore giving an arrival wave to eagerly awaiting guests at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre

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The Lloyds Banking Group, London 2012 Olympic torch lighting the way for the low carbon games

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His Excellency Ion Jinga, Romanian Ambassador to the UK, Lena Wilson of Scottish Enterprise and the First Minister awaiting the conference dinner to commence

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Al Gore presenting on climate reality

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The First Minister soaking up the atmosphere in the newly refurbished National Museum of Scotland

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Angus McCrone of Bloomberg New Energy Finance Chairing the conference

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Edinburgh Chamber President, Robert Carr thanking former Vice President Al Gore for an inspiring presentation

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Inspiringconnections upcoming events new members evening Wednesday 14 December 2011 5.30pm - 7.30pm

FREE TO NEW MEMBERS

christmas Party Thursday 8 December 2011 5.30pm - 8.00pm

New members are welcome to join us in a complimentary evening at the Edinburgh Chamber. Come along, meet the team over a cup tea, some nibbles and network with our newest additions at this low key relaxed evening.You will hear from current members’ experiences and the value they have found with different aspects of their Chamber membership.

Join us in sparking off the festive season with a very fun yet relaxed networking experience. If you liked the summer party, you’ll love the Christmas party - lots of members coming together over mulled wine and Christmas canapés to discuss the highs and lows of 2011. Let’s just hope there is not as much snow this year!

Location

The Royal Society of Edinburgh, 22-26 George St

Members Hub, Capital House, 2 Festival Square Fee This event is free to new members

Location

Fee £20.00 (Chamber members and member guests) £40.00 (Non-members)

breakfast connections - One year On...

Wednesday 25 January 2012 8.30am - 9.45am Speakers Sue Bruce, Chief Executive, City Council

In January 2011, Sue Bruce spoke to us about her new role within Edinburgh City Council and the challenge she was facing in maintaining the delivery of services while reducing costs. Join us one year on to discover how Sue Bruce has dealt with these challenges and the new issues facing 2012.

Location The Hub, Royal Mile, Edinburgh Fee The Events team

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£33.00 (Chamber members and member guests) £63.00 (Non-members)

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60seconds Q Why did you join?

A To further engage with the city’s business community and allow the Chamber’s members to gain better understanding of what a professional rugby club is all about.

Q What services do you use?

A To date, networking events and the website in conjunction with databases.

Q What’s the best business/benefit you have won through the Chamber?

A The ability to contact companies, be they big or small, with an interest in rugby who might be interested in becoming involved with Edinburgh Rugby.

Q Are there any additional services or information you’d be

Name: Craig Docherty Company Name: Edinburgh Rugby Website: www.edinburghrugby.org

particularly interested in?

A The range of services that is on offer seems wide so it is too early to tell.

Q If you were telling another business person about the Chamber, what’s the first thing you would say?

A Join. Even in the digital age, meeting people face to face is still the best way to do business.

Q In five words or less, what do you do?

A Professional rugby club chief executive.

Q Where do you read your copy of Business Comment?

A In the office with a cup of strong coffee and a chocolate Hobnob.

Q How long have you been a Chamber member?

A A couple of months.

Making sure you get noticed on the Web Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) is a digital marketing technique which allows you to communicate wit your current and potential customers, using search engines to directly place your product/service in front of the people who may be searching for it.

3. The Missing Link

QueryClick a successful search marketing agency based in Edinburgh, give their top five tips on getting the most out of SEO to boost your online presence.

Another way Google considers websites in search rankings is by how well connected it is to other sites. The more links to and from other sites you have, the more important Google deems you to be and the higher your site will rank. Spend time researching the sites which are relevant to you and start to build effective links between them, allowing you to climb up the search rankings.

1. Choose Your Key Words Carefully

4. Be Sociable

The first step to creating any successful SEO campaign is selecting the relevant terms that you would like to be found for. Do some research, speak to your customers and find out how they might search for the products/service you offer. These key words will then be incorporated into the build of your website, ensuring you appear as near to the top as possible on search result lists.

Social media has untold benefits when it comes to search rankings as not only can you provide links to your site through regular Facebook, Twitter and blog posts, but you can also engage with your customers.

From listening and getting involved in the conversations that are online, you are able to better understand what your market place wants and adapt your business accordingly.

2. It’s All Relative

5. Be Creative

Search Engines like Google value content which is relevant more than anything, so make sure your site, in particular your home page, is as up to date as possible. Updating your content regularly will also help keep Google checking over your site, pushing you higher up the search rankings. Relevant and valuable content will also mean that visitors on your site will stay longer, giving more opportunities to convert them into paying customers.

Treat every page on your website as though it were your homepage.

80% of site visitors don’t engage beyond the home page, so make sure the content on your page makes them want to find out more. Ensure your key messages are clear on every page and that contact details are visible. Also make it easy for visitors to move back and forth between the pages. One important thing to remember when considering the design of your website is do not use Flash as Google can’t search over and rank websites that use Flash animations.

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

Edinburgh’s newest car showroom set for completion in the new year

Pentland Land Rover, part of the John Clark Motor Group, Scotland’s third largest independent family owned motor retailing company has built an enviable reputation based on providing outstanding customer service. Since being established in 1998 based at 1 Lanark Road, they employ a team of nearly 40, with many offering a life time of unique Land Rover expertise.

As of the first of December 2011 Pentland will be the only Land Rover authorised sales and service dealership for the City of Edinburgh and the Lothian’s and will be opening a brand new dealership at their new site in Newbridge, Edinburgh in January 2012. Work began on its construction on 27 June 2011 and represents a £6 million investment for the John Clark Motor Group. The 30,000 square foot dealership will feature a two-level 12-car showroom and a 14-bay workshop with the latest service facilities and state of the art technology. The design incorporates a dedicated Business Centre for customers as well as an extensive 80-car used car display and customer parking on site.

There will also be two underground handover bays and luxurious customer waiting facilities.

But don’t wait until next year to visit right now at Pentland taking centre stage is the irresistible Range Rover Evoque, proving to be a welcome addition to the already exciting Land Rover and Range Rover line up alongside the new 2012 model Discovery and Range Rover Sport. Pentland also have one of the largest stocks of Approved Used Land Rover available at competitive prices and given the time of year it certainly helps to be prepared.

As well as all the amazing offers in sales they also have some great news for aftersales customers, the Pentland Land Rover

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P

N Allegiance card is now here. Customers simply need to sign up online and they can instantly benefit from some of the amazing offers including half price MOTs, up to 20% off full Allegiance Services and 20% discount on the Pentland Service Plans, this means a customer can have 3 full services on their brand new Freelander 2 from only £29.53 a month. Another innovative service is the introduction of the brand new Accessories Online Shop, every Land Rover approved accessory is available to their customers at just a click. Browse the shop for great offers and discounts, customers can even sign up for a newsletter to receive offers specific to their own model of Land Rover or Range Rover.

It’s an exciting time to be a Pentland Land Rover customer, so please don’t miss out.

TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT PENTLAND LAND ROVER Please call 0131 215 1064 or visit our website www.pentland-landrover.co.uk For all information regarding our brand new site at Newbridge, Edinburgh please go to www.pentland2012.co.uk

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•T •1 •D •T •L

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p ng

is w

ine eir and eceive over.

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Pentland Land Rover

New site coming January 2012 • Two Level 12 Car Showroom • 14 Bay Workshop • Dedicated Business Centre • Two Underground Handover Bays • Luxurious Customer Waiting Facilities

Telephone: 0131 215 1510 www.pentland-landrover.co.uk

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Theinterview sPeCiAl FeAture

a champion of Scotland’s green revolution Few countries in the world can rival Scotland’s ambition when it comes to generating renewable energy and one of the men seeking to turn those challenging targets into reality is Calum Wilson.

Calum is Managing Director of Forth Energy, a joint venture based at Prince of Wales Dock at Leith, which was formed three and a half years ago by Scottish and Southern Energy (SSE plc), the UK’s largest renewable energy generator, and Forth Ports Limited, which owns and operates seven commercial ports in Scotland and the Port of Tilbury on the Thames.

The company’s aim is to develop renewable energy around four of Forth Ports’ sites and become Scotland’s biggest developer of onsite renewable power generation facilities, to be achieved largely through biomass, the burning of woodfuel to generate heat and electricity.

For Calum Wilson, the involvement of two such important partner companies is crucial to attract investors, some of whom will need convincing that renewable energy makes for a sound investment.

Calum, who came to the job after a career spent in the energy industry, including two decades working on high voltage power networks and delivering energy projects, said: “Investors look for several things when they consider putting money into projects.

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Calum Wilson, Managing Director, Forth Energy

this case the huge potential of biomass. Forth Energy proposes to develop four plants at the ports of Dundee, Grangemouth, Rosyth and Leith, which represent a £1.7bn investment in renewable energy and would have a total electricity capacity of up to 500MW, around 10% of Scotland’s projected demand in 2020 and a heat capacity of 320 MW or around 35% of the Governments 11% renewable heat target.

Calum said: “I think investors understand onshore wind and hydroelectric, which have been around for a while, and are also coming to understand offshore wind projects. We are working with investors to help them see the significant part that biomass for electricity and heat can play in Scotland’s renewable energy mix as we move to a sustainable, low carbon economy.”

“One is a policy framework, is it stable and does it support the project? In this case, the Scottish Government has set clear targets for renewable energy production. These include 100% of Scotland’s electricity to be supplied from renewable sources and 11% of Scotland’s heat to be met from renewable sources by 2020. So there is a clearly a policy framework in place.

According to the company, that potentially means that its biomass plants will place Dundee, Grangemouth, Rosyth and Leith at the forefront of initiatives to help Scotland meet its challenging carbon reduction targets.

The plants will create renewable heat hubs in the four Ports, creating investment and attracting further investment in the area. The plants at Dundee and Leith will be capable of providing low carbon energy to the planned offshore manufacturing industries that are planned for the Ports.

“Another thing that they look for is to understand the project risks and how they will be managed. That is why the involvement of SSE and Forth Ports is so important. They are stable companies that can deliver these projects and that reassures investors.”

Forth Energy says that siting plants at the ports means that the raw material, woodfuel, can be delivered by sea, avoiding pollution from road transport. A typical bulk ship is able to deliver up to 35,000 tonnes of fuel, the equivalent of 1,000 lorry loads.

Another important aspect of the company’s work is to ensure that investors appreciate fully the advantage of new technologies, in

In addition, says the company, the communities living around the ports can benefit in a number of ways, not least up

to 500 construction jobs, and the potential to develop clusters of specialist support companies.

Calum said: “We believe ports are the best places to operate these plants. We are creating hubs around which companies can cluster. It makes sense to construct the plants at ports because they can handle the woodfuel which means that it does not need to travel further by road.”

Research has indicated that the carbon footprint of the plants is 90% lower in emissions than a traditional coal-fired power station. Forth Energy also commissioned the Scottish Institute of Sustainable Technology to undertake an independent study which showed that the woodfuel can be sourced from traditional, sustainably-managed sources from the existing and growing international marketplace. Calum said: “Biomass has a big future when it comes to renewable energy. Our plants will make a significant contribution to the Scottish Government’s renewable energy targets for 100% of electricity and 11% of heat to be generated from renewable sources by 2020.

“The heat part of our plants is so important.

That has not been tried in Scotland before and our plans would allow us to supply significant levels of heat to our towns and cities, reducing reliance on existing higher carbon sources of heat.

“The big advantage with biomass is its reliability. However, we do not believe that it is the only option but that it should be part of a portfolio. Biomass generation can provide stable low carbon heat and electricity, complementing other renewable technologies such as wind and hydro electric, enhancing the security of our energy supplies in Scotland.”

He says that although onshore wind and hydroelectric have been around longer and therefore more familiar concepts, the potential for biomass is rapidly being acknowledged.

“For me, biomass has an important role to play renewable technology and the provision of these kinds of levels of low carbon heat is very exciting. We do not just look at 2020 targets but beyond that, to 2030 and 2050,” he said.

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coverfeature sPeCiAl FeAture

magical, inspiring, unique – get ready for edinburgh’s winter festivals

The economic outlook maybe uncertain, businesses are working hard to survive but it’s Christmas in Edinburgh so let’s enjoy ourselves!

The programme of events over the festive period play a much larger role than simply ensuring that people have a smile on their face because research shows that the season is beneficial to the city’s economy as well.

to Edinburgh for that magical moment at midnight. The latest figures show that the event attracted 137, 000 visitors to the city last year, contributing more than £32 million pounds to the Scottish economy.

Scotland’s Tourism Minister Fergus Ewing is one of those who appreciates the lift they give to the city, said: “Scotland’s Winter Festivals bring together three of our most important cultural celebrations to showcase everything on offer over St Andrews Day, Hogmanay and Burns Night.

“Scotland is the perfect stage for events and the Scottish Government works closely with VisitScotland and other partners to ensure that there is something for everyone with a wide range of exciting events taking place all year round, the length and breadth of the country.

The festive period is a particularly special time and nowhere more so than in Edinburgh there will be plenty on offer for families and visitors alike to enjoy.”

“Each is a wonderful time to visit Edinburgh, and every year hundreds of thousands of people do just that and experience our nation’s distinct traditions and contemporary culture.

“The city’s Hogmanay celebrations put Scotland on the world stage and all eyes look

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The New Year will also see the launch, on January 25, of Edinburgh’s new Tourism Strategy at the annual Edinburgh Tourism Action Group (ETAG) conference in the city.

Robin Worsnop, Chair of ETAG, believes that 2012 could be a key year for the sector. He said: “Edinburgh has experienced significant growth as a contemporary European capital city and short break destination, and is the major tourist gateway to the rest of Scotland.

Over 50% of international visitors stay here whilst they visit our country.”

The city is well positioned as a must see tourism destination frequently recognised through accolades such as 2010 ‘Favourite UK City’ as voted by Conde Nast Readers’ Travel Awards, and 2010 ‘Favourite UK City’ in the Guardian & Observer Travel Awards for the 11th consecutive year. Edinburgh remains the second UK city for international visitors after London.

Robin said: “Despite recent economic challenges Edinburgh’s tourism sector has

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proved resilient with record visitor numbers at Edinburgh Castle, record attendances at the Fringe Festival, new direct international air routes, continued strong investor interest in the hotel sector, and healthy growth in the business tourism sector. Edinburgh Airport has seen over a 100% increase in traffic from 4.5 million passengers in 1999 to 9.25 million up to the end of October 2011. From October 2010 to October 2011 alone there was a 13% increase in international visitors.

It is estimated that in 2009 2.46 million UK residents made trips to Edinburgh, spending £562 million, with overseas residents making 1.33 million trips to the Capital spending £458 million.

“In the next few years a large amount of capital investment is going into the city across all parts of the sector including transport, attractions, venues, conference infrastructure, hotels and retail which brings with it a huge opportunity for the city’s tourism industry.

We have also recently seen the formation of Marketing Edinburgh Ltd. who through the integration of Destination Edinburgh Marketing Alliance, Edinburgh Convention Bureau and Edinburgh Film Focus will be the lead city promotion body which will cross sell Edinburgh as a place to visit, invest, live, work, and study.”

“The city’s Hogmanay celebrations put Scotland on the world stage and all eyes look to Edinburgh for that magical moment at midnight.”

The new strategy will allow the industry to take stock of its progress to date and consider where we want to be in 10 years time, and most importantly how we’re going to get there. Robin said: “If we are to successfully compete as one of the top European capital cities we have to continue to invest in our tourism product to ensure we offer a unique and compelling visitor experience which matches the expectations of our future global visitor markets.

“There is no doubt that the success of our city’s tourism industry lies in effective communication across all component parts of the sector, which collectively deliver the city’s tourism product. As we all know there are many different parts to Edinburgh’s visitor experience which are supplied by a wide range of large and small scale operators.

Given the scale and complexity of the sector it is essential that there is adequate coordination and communication between the diverse range of operators, activities, services, and promotional activity, to ensure that the visitor experience is a high quality, integrated, and seamless one.”

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Havefun Edinburgh’s Christmas 2011 Edinburgh’s Christmas Markets

All the Fun of the Christmas Fair!

Opening times for all Christmas fair rides

*

East Princes Street Gardens, by the Scott Monument Running until Wednesday 4 January Sunday – Wednesday: 10am – 8pm Thursday – Saturday: 10am – 10pm From 10am (last ticket sold at 10pm) Christmas Eve 10am – 8pm Christmas Day Closed Boxing Day 11am – 8pm Hogmanay 10am – 6pm New Year’s Day 12noon – 10pm * Edinburgh Wheel open until 10pm every night

The Edinburgh Wheel Cost: Adults £4.00 Children £3.00 (31 Dec – 2 Jan: Adults £5.00 Children £4.00)

For an exhilarating view take a spin on the Edinburgh Wheel. Its majestic 33 metre span towers over Princes Street and the gardens, giving you the best possible view of the city lights.

The Christmas Carousel Cost: £3.00

The traditional carousel is a family favourite and once more takes its place beneath the Scott Monument.

Flying Carousel Cost: £3.50

If you feel the need for speed, this is the ride for you. Close your eyes, hold on tight and get ready to scream!

Helter Skelter Cost: £2.00

Slide down the classic Helter Skelter – a delight for all ages.

Children’s Christmas Corner Cost:Children’s attractions from £2.00

Always popular, the Children’s Corner offers the chance for the wee ones to enjoy a few funfair rides, sample the Christmas festive spirit and have themselves a merry little Christmas.

Highland Village Christmas Market East Princes Street Gardens Until Wednesday 4 January Sun – Wed: 10am – 8pm Thu – Sat: 10am – 10pm Christmas Eve: 10am – 8pm Christmas Day: Closed Boxing Day: 11am – 8pm Hogmanay: 10am – 6pm New Year’s Day: 12noon – 10pm The Real Scottish Christmas Fair Castle Street Saturday 3 – Thursday 8 December

10 am - 6pm daily Scottish crafts, fashion, jewellery, soaps, candles and home-wares as well as hot foods and mulled cider throughout the event with lots of innovation and inspiration for Christmas shopping, in a warm, vibrant and welcoming environment.

For more information go to www.handupmedia.co.uk The Ethical Christmas Fair Castle Street Saturday 10 – Sunday 18 December

10 am – 6pm daily Enjoy a Christmas that won’t cost the earth. With everything from eco-gadgets to Fairtrade chocolate, this market is guaranteed to make your Christmas greener than ever.

Ethical and sustainable gifts, decorations and jewellery sit side by side with food and drink including curries, honey and plenty of sampling.

For more information go to www.handupmedia.co.uk Santa Visits the Gardens East Princes Street Gardens

Bungy Snowdome and the Bubblepods

Saturday 3 December – Saturday 24 December

Cost: £6.00 each attraction

First visits Sat 3 Dec & Sun 4 Dec: 11am and 4pm.

Daily from Sat 10 Dec: 11am and 4pm

East Princes Street Gardens Until Wednesday 4 January

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Traditional German Christmas Market Mound Precinct Until Saturday 24 December Sun – Wed: 10am – 8pm Thu – Sat: 10am – 10pm Christmas Eve: 10am – 8pm

This year Santa will be visiting from Saturday 3 December onwards to meet his friends and collect the post from his special post boxes in East Princes Street Gardens. There will also be storytelling in the National Gallery Complex, so don’t miss the chance to meet Santa himself!

Santa’s Post Box East Princes Street Gardens Free

Daily from Sat 10 Dec: 11am and 4pm Very important letters to Santa can be posted for personal collection in Santa’s Post Boxes in East Princes Street Gardens. Santa comes to pick up his mail when he visits from Saturday 10 December onwards.

The Great Edinburgh Santa Run West Princes Street Gardens, by the Ross Bandstand Sunday 11 December 11am, registration open from 9am £12.50 adults – includes Santa suit to keep; £7.50 children

Register at www.thesantarun.org.uk or call 01357 529 950/01332 521 212 Once more, Scotland’s fundraising Santas will run, walk and stroll around West Princes Street Gardens. Spread over a 1.5km circuit in the gardens, the event is a great way to enjoy time with friends and family while raising money for a deserving cause. And you don’t have to be a runner to take part.

The Great Edinburgh Santa Run’s participants are in for an extra treat this year as UK Zumba® Fitness Presenter and Education Specialist, Donna Giffen, will be leading the Santas through a special Christmas Zumba warm up to ensure they’re ready and raring to go! The warm up begins at 10.30am.

Money raised from the event goes to the charity When You Wish Upon a Star which raises money to grant Wishes to children with life-threatening illnesses throughout Scotland.

For more information or to register, please visit www.thesantarun.org.uk or call 01357 529 950 / 01332 521 212

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All set for Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Every December, Edinburgh’s Hogmanay welcomes thousands of residents and visitors from around the world to join in events across the City.

This year, with the invitation Let’s Play, the three days of celebrations open on Friday 30 December with the spectacular Torchlight Procession. Come and join six thousand torch bearers creating a river of fire down the historic Royal Mile watched by more than 20,000 spectators in a procession that culminates with a fantastic Son et Lumière show on Calton Hill.

The flagship Street Party on 31st December offers a world class line-up of live music and DJ’s this year. The UK’s top acts bringing in 2012 at the world famous celebrations include two of the hottest bands of the summer festivals - The Vaccines and Friendly Fires, a special DJ set from the world-renowned Mark Ronson and Celtic superheroes Peatbog Faeries together with Scottish traditional music legends Capercaillie. The ever outrageous Cuban Brothers are joined by Fringe sell-outs Frisky & Mannish completing the headline acts for the five stages along Princes Street. This fantastic line-up will be joined by special guests Kassidy. Wild Beasts, X-Factor’s Jade Richards and Radio 1 DJ’s Jaymo and Andy George.

Pete Irvine, Director of Edinburgh’s Hogmanay, said “The eyes of the world will be on Edinburgh, the ‘Home of Hogmanay’, as we launch 2012 - the year of the London Olympics - and we are delighted to have such a fantastic line-up for the Street Party – the best we’ve had in 19 years. And Let’s Play and enjoy the New Year Games on the 1st to kick off the New Year.”

The Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Street Party is expected to welcome up to 80,000 revellers from Scotland and around the world and will climax with an ambitious fireworks display – the longest in the 19 year history of the event. Launching from the iconic Edinburgh

Castle and from Calton Hill, this spectacular midnight moment will herald the start of 2012 – the Year of Creative Scotland.

Celebrations on Saturday 31st December also include The Concert in the Gardens which this year welcomes Scottish rockers Primal Scream. They will be joined by special guests Bombay Bicycle Club and Sons & Daughters. The popular Keilidh offers the very best in traditional Scottish music with Ceilidhdonia, Hugh MacDiarmid’s Haircut and the Jimmy Shandrix Experience birling through the bells.

the River Forth under the famous Forth Bridge. Over the last 25 years, thousands of people have taken the plunge in the annual South Queensferry Loony Dook, raising thousands of pounds for charities across the UK. This year 1,000 Dookers, in all kinds of fancy dress, are expected to brave the freezing water with family and friends lining the waterfront in support.

To celebrate the launch of 2012, revellers are invited to come and play in the New Year Games which will take place in the Grassmarket and around the Old Town on Sunday 1st January. Two teams – the Uppies or the Doonies – will play games in venues including Dancebase, The Hub, St Giles Cathedral and the National Museum of Scotland. Working with innovative Scottish artists and game design studio Hide&Seek, Edinburgh’s Hogmanay has re-imagined some of the traditional Scottish games with the support of the Scottish Government’s Edinburgh Festivals Expo Fund.

Giant board games, re-imagined classics, secret missions and a huge playground in the Grassmarket invite residents and visitors to play, participate or just spectate in a fun-filled afternoon of mental stimulation and physical challenges.

The Up Helly Aa Vikings lead Edinburgh's Hogmanay Torchlight Procession

And if you can’t make the world’s biggest New Year’s Party – then let the Party come to you. For the first time this year, Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Street Party will be streamed online.

Also on Saturday 31st December, The Candlelit Concert in St Giles Cathedral celebrates the music of Handel and Mozart with Handel’s virtuosic Dixit Dominus partnered by Mozart’s Vesperae solennes de Confessore. The St Giles Cathedral Choir, directed by Michael Harris, with the St Giles Camerate, led by Angus Ramsay, are joined by a stunning array of young soloists.

New Year’s Day starts with a bracing dip in

The Edinburgh Filmhouse offers an homage to Edinburgh as the inspirational city behind some of cinemas most loved films. From Friday 30 December to Sunday 1st January, the Filmhouse will be showing The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie, The Battle of the Sexes, One Day, Trainspotting and 39 Steps.

For further information, to purchase tickets and to register for online updates visit: www.edinburghshogmanay.com Revellers can obtain tickets for the Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Street Party, Concert in the Gardens and The Keilidh, which are part of the city’s Edinburgh Sparkles winter celebrations, in one of three ways: Online at www.edinburghshogmanay.com by calling the Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Box Office on 0844 573 8455 or in person at The Fringe Office, 180 High Street; Tickets Scotland, 127 Rose Street & 237 Argyle Street, Glasgow or Ripping Records, 91 South Bridge, Edinburgh.

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support services to any businesses that are looking to reduce costs by effectively outsourcing some of their core activities.

In this harsh economic environment most businesses have had to adjust their operational budgets without necessarily compromising on quality production and efficient service delivery.

This is a very tricky balancing act.

That is where our company CAN help. We can do virtually most of the key operational aspects such marketing, human resource gap filling, technical field support, IT and database management, administrative support.

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Administrative Support We provide administrative back up and support through human resources management, clerical and all documentation, telephone and receptionist services.

No clients are too big or too small for us to take on. Our main objective is to help businesses achieve optimum productivity at minimal operational overheads.

23/11/11 14:44:15

Technical Field Support We can beef-up technical field support for companies that may be needing cover due to a surge in such operations either on a one off basis, or as an on-going arrangement. This can be done collaboratively or independently.

M

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07426444436 / 07729513635

info@brandonbs.co.uk

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23/11/11 14:44:26

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0131 442 3333 FUEL CONSUMPTION FIGURES AND CO2 FIGURES FOR VAUXHALL ASTRA 1.4 100PS IN MPG (L/100KM) URBAN 39.8 (7.1), EXTRA URBAN 61.4 (4.6), COMBINED 51.4 (5.5). CO2 EMISSIONS 129 G/KM. FUEL CONSUMPTION FIGURES AND CO2 FIGURES FOR LOTUS EVORA RANGE IN MPG (L/100KM) URBAN 19.4 (14.6) – 23.4 (12.1), EXTRA URBAN 37.2 (7.6) – 44.8 (6.3), COMBINED 27.7 (10.2) – 33.2 (8.5). CO2 EMISSIONS 199 – 239 G/KM. FUEL CONSUMPTION FIGURES AND CO2 FIGURES FOR PEUGEOT RCZ IN MPG (L/100KM) URBAN 27.4 (10.3), EXTRA URBAN 51.3 (5.5), COMBINED 38.7 (7.3). CO2 EMISSIONS 168 G/KM. Terms and conditions apply. Business users only. Examples exclude VAT and are based on the following agreed payment schedules; Volvo V60, an initial payment of 6 monthly rentals, followed by 17 monthly rentals, with a mileage of 6,000. Volvo XC 60, an initial payment of 6 monthly rentals followed by 35 monthly rentals with a mileage of 12,000 miles per annum. Lotus Evora 2+0, an initial payment of 3 monthly rentals, followed by 35 rentals with a mileage of 10,000 miles per annum. All other vehicles, an initial payment of 3 monthly rentals, followed by 35 monthly rentals, with a mileage of 10,000 miles per annum. Prices correct at time of going to print, and are subject to availability at participating dealers. Images for illustration purposes only.

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www.sir-robert-mcalpine.com

Sir Robert McAlpine is proud to be helping shape a new future for Scotland through projects including the delivery of a new stadium for the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

Edinburgh International Conference Centre Expansion Scott House, Mid New Cultins West One Business Park Edinburgh EH11 4DH

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Tel: 0131 458 4255 Fax: 0131 458 4254 Email: edinburgh@sir-robert-mcalpine.com

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Inthe Inthespotlight Company name: the Fourth Craw Who? iain Bunt, Creative Director Website: www.fourthcraw.com (new site coming soon!)

1. What were you doing between 10 and 12 this morning?

7. What do you like to do on your spare time?

Working on several things including: updates to a client’s website, briefing in graphics required for another site to a freelance designer, whilst planning out what order other jobs were in terms of priority.

I have a 4 year old son, Alexander, most spare time is spent with him, he loves soft play centres and we have membership to Edinburgh Zoo. As for me personally, I love watching a good movie, home or in the cinema, socialising with friends and playing on my PlayStation– all rare nowadays.

2. What do you see as your job’s biggest challenge?

Juggling multiple jobs whilst ensuring each gets suitable priority and attention to detail whilst remaining on brand.

3. What do you consider your biggest business triumph?

It has to be The Fourth Craw becoming a Partner in Enterprise with the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce. It’s an exciting time for us with fantastic opportunities.

4. Do you have any money-saving business tips?

Quite simply, that sometimes spending too little in the first instance can be more expensive long-term.

5. What do you believe are the 3 key stages on your career ladder?

Asking in a community newspaper office: “Do you have any vacancies for a trainee graphic designer?”

Achieving Senior Designer position in my previous work Becoming Director of The Fourth Craw.

6. Where do you stand on work/life balance?

I believe that spending time with your children is invaluable and should be relished rather than getting home from 11+hour days when your child is already in bed, and yet, I find myself doing just that at times.

8. What qualities do you need to see in your employees?

12. Any business (or other) projects you would like to plug?

An eagerness to learn and develop, keeping up with the times, a creative edge and a natural eye for good design. Good taste is always good. I also like a member of the team to be honest and have a good sense of humour.

A good friend is a manager at Midlothian Women’s Aid, they are always looking for help and support and are currently looking for furnishings for a women’s refuge, if anyone can help, please give them a call on 0131 663 9827.

9. in business, is it more important to be liked or successful?

13. other than your current position, what would be your dream job?

It’s good to be liked, for the service you provide as well as your personality, this in turn can build on how successful you are. However in business, it’s important to make the right decision, and there’s sometimes a consequence of that. My answer would have to be a bit of each!

Test building lego from instructions provided… I could do that for hours on end! Maybe I could do that but would probably like my office to be at Legoland Florida. Salary needs to be good as well!

10. What is the one piece of advice you would give to others trying to reach the top?

Don’t rest on your laurels, ask yourself: What can I develop/improve about myself/this piece of work? Should I adapt to suit the marketplace better? Am I focussing on the correct skill-set? Also, consider working WITH your clients and not necessarily FOR them.

11. Who is your hero?

In many respects, my son. But also, anyone who goes to great lengths to help and support those who can’t help or support themselves.

14. Who (living or dead) would you invite to a fantasy dinner party?

I’d need to bring a few individuals together here, Leslie Neilson, Harry Enfield, Aretha Franklin and James Brown, no shortage of entertainment there!

15. outside of business, what is the most important thing in your life?

This brings us right back to Alexander. It’s amazing to watch him grow and develop.

His birthday is Christmas Day, so that’s a very exciting time in our house, this year especially as he turns 5. He started school recently and watching him develop reading and writing skills so quickly is fascinating.

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Who said money doesn’t grow us trees?

Last year Edinburgh Airport introduced a charge of £1 to drop off someone at the airport which caused a little bit of controversy.

What people don’t know is that ‘kiss and fly’ (which usually results in 4 journeys – to and from the airport twice) is one of the airport’s main contributors to its carbon footprint and hence the charge was, in part anyway, designed to discourage this.

Even better, a contribution from every pound is also going to be helping to plant native woodlands with Trees4Scotland and also helps to support our primary schools education programme, The Tree Amigos. Feel better?

Gordon Robertson from Edinburgh Airport comments: “We’re delighted that some of the money raised in our drop off zone can go to further assist the excellent Trees4Scotland. We already support Tree Amigos so we therefore know that the money will be well spent educating children in this vital area.

“We were keen that any donation is not just seen as a token and we look forward to working with the Trees4Scotland team over

the coming months in the planting of trees and the educational programmes they run.”

‘Kiss and fly’ is a term that is used when someone is being dropped off at the airport rather than parking up or using other means of transport such as a taxi or bus. It usually results in the traveller needing to also be picked up on their return and hence results in 4 trips to and from the airport rather than two (if parking up). Edinburgh Airport is therefore keen to discourage people from kiss and fly and to rather use other means such as public transport.

At the same time the introduction of the £1 charge was not particularly welcomed by some airport users – despite the improvements in facilities. To soften the blow and to let travellers know that they are doing this for the right reasons Edinburgh Airport make a contribution to tree planting (and other community and environmental projects) for every pound charged.

This is great news for trees and for Scotland with approximately 1000 trees being planted every quarter! The monies also go towards supporting the Tree Amigos environment project which has approximately 300 primary school pupils every year learning about climate change, carbon footprints , trees and woodland wildlife.

For more information please visit http://www.edinburghairport.com

Donaldson’s School would like to invite Chamber members to celebrate the launch of our new brand ‘Campus at Donaldson’s’ on: Monday 20th February 2012 at 6.00pm to 8.30pm Campus at Donaldson’s offers: • A modern venue for meetings and events of all sizes • Overnight accommodation with access to swimming and sports facilities • A semi-rural location, whilst still enjoying easy access by car/train from all major towns within the central belt • Courtesy bus from train station • Award winning healthy menus from our in-house catering team • State of the art ICT equipment • A range of professional training courses Book • An opportunity to support a local charity We hope you can join us on 20th February 2012, when you can sample our wonderful food and have a tour of our outstanding facilities.

your free place today contact: Lynne Learmonth, 01506 841900 or llearmonth@donaldsons.org.uk

Campus at Donaldson’s, Preston Road, Linlithgow, EH49 6HZ www.donaldsons.org.uk Any profits made by Campus at Donaldson’s will be reinvested into Donaldson’s School and the education, therapy and care of our pupils who are deaf or have communication difficulties. (Scottish Charity No: SC017417)

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We open doors Whether you want to improve your employability, pursue your passion or fast track your career, Edinburgh Napier has a postgraduate course to suit.

We have over 140 relevant postgraduate and professional courses, including continuous professional development opportunities in: The Business School The Faculty of Engineering, Computing & Creative Industries The Faculty of Health, Life & Social Sciences

www.napier.ac.uk/postgraduate

New online MBA Our new 100% online MBA allows you to develop your business skills wherever you are in the world.

We will help you create a flexible, relevant course that’s unique to you. Our international staff will then show you how to put it into practice in the real world.

www.napier.ac.uk/mbaglobalonline 93.3% of Edinburgh Napier postgraduate students are in work or further study within 6 months of graduating.

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COMPANY IDENTITIES / BROCHURES WEBSITES / CORPORATE REPORTS MAGAZINES / BRIGHT IDEAS

giving your business the edge

www.lennondesign.co.uk

find us on

alan@lennondesign.co.uk / 0131 558 3399

Have you ever felt angry about your pension fund’s high, confusing charges, and its low, ineffective performance?

Please allow me to show you the value of a different approach: 1.

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index-tracking funds at very low-cost, hourly-rate fees instead of a percentage, an alert-service to help you stop losses, observing trends, via moving day averages.

To arrange a short, informative meeting, (at your office, before the day’s work starts?) call me, Stephen Walters, on 075 000 19490 or email stephen@waltersandshek.co.uk

How Secure is Your Data?

You Protect Your Data From External Attack, What About Internal Leakage?

One of the most common and devastating threats facing an organisation today is data loss or theft. Whether the loss of information comes from within your organisation or through the theft of equipment, such as laptops, the consequences can be severe and can have a far-reaching impact. The compromise of sensitive information has repeatedly made headline news over the past few years and many times, the data has simply walked right out the front door on a laptop, smartphone, or other mobile device. For companies that suffer such a data loss, the consequences can be serious, including massive regulatory penalties, public disclosure, brand damage and customer distrust; and we all know the court of public opinion needs no more evidence than what is printed in the press.

Some of the questions you might ask yourself are: n

Is your data able to protect itself against loss, theft, or compromising user behaviour?

n

Is your data security always under your control?

n

Do you really know how much of your sensitive data is on your employees' laptops?

n

If one of your employees lost a laptop, handheld or USB, how would that impact your organisation?

n

Do you allow your employees to save sensitive data to portable storage devices, such as USBs or iPods?

n

Do you need to support legitimate usage of portable storage devices?

n

What would happen if confidential data was accidentally exposed?

n

Do your employees actually know which data is most sensitive and how to

VirtuousIT is the only Scottish based company to have been accredited as a McAfee Premier Partner for Data Protection and System Security and as such we enjoy the support of the recognised global leader in the field. So we are well qualified to help ensure that your data is secure from external and internal threats.

Stephen Walters (FP) Ltd, trading as Walters & Shek, 85/5 South Oswald Road, Edinburgh, EH9 2HH. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority.

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01506 637700 www.virtuousit.co.uk

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Asktheexpert Q: I’ve got a series of presentations to make to twelve of our key clients. I’m a confident presenter but I feel the presentation I’ve created for these is quite bland and uninteresting. What can I do to make it more interesting?

ME, Account Manager, Edinburgh

A: To make a presentation interesting to

the audience, you have to focus the content on who the audience are and relate the content to them, otherwise they will just ask themselves “what am I doing here”?

This means that rather than writing one presentation to deliver to each of your twelve key clients, you write twelve presentations – a separate one for each of them.

You may find that 60-80% of the content will be similar in all twelve, but the remaining 20-40% will be unique to each client, focused on their situation and the relationship they have with you. Everyone’s favourite radio station is “WII-FM”, or “What’s In It For Me”? Your audience wants to know that you care about them, Bryan Leslie understand their needs, and are prepared to work with them to help them achieve what they want.

The things you need to know about your audience for any presentation you make includes: n Who is going to be in the audience? n What are their experiences with your company and the service or product you provide? n How long have they worked for the company and in what roles? n What are each attendees interests in and out of work?

is a very useful resource here). Be prepared to ask the person at each company who has requested (or agreed) you make the presentation for any information they may have as well.

Bryan Leslie, Chamber Business Solutions Manager, Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce.

For more details of the coaching and training we provide on Presentation Skills, please go to www.chamberbusinesssolutions.co.uk or call Customer Services on 0844 800 4246.

n What are five facts about their industry that would be interesting to them?

You can get this information by referring to your own knowledge, the knowledge of other people in your company/network, or by researching on the internet (Linked-In

GetwithIT

By Bill Magee

Scottish Business Technology Writer of the Year

It’s now become evident that a collective effort of both the public and private sectors is required to ensure that no part of Scotland is left behind on the superfast broadband front.

Recent investments by BT in Scotland ~ recipient of a new British Standard in recognition of its Smart City partnership with City of Edinburgh Council and first ICT company to gain the BS 11000 certification ~ mark major milestones in the development of the nation’s communications.

Scots Director Brendan Dick says it’s all about delivering benefits for local businesses and homeworkers. Such fast links help to boost their efficiency and competitiveness, while households can make use of the many

additional educational and entertainment benefits available with faster broadband.

Of course, there’s still the mainly rural, less populated areas to overcome and this is where the private and public sectors can excel by working closely together. Cabinet Secretary for Infrastructure and Capital Investment Alex Neil has welcomed the BT announcements.

He said: “Clearly the private sector has an important role to play in helping us deliver our vision.” The Scottish Government

remains committed to putting in place a communications network that will bring benefits to Scotland’s economy and communities.

This is a highly laudable strategy. I would argue that it represents even more than that ~ broadband is an enabler propelling Scotland ahead of major European countries and instrumental in making the country a highly attractive place for future overseas investments.

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Evans Halshaw Ford Edinburgh

Up to 33% discount on your new ford commercial, and 7.9% apr representative finance All new Ford Ranger coming soon

we are pleased to be associated with the Energy Saving Trust and Transport Scotland.......”come in for a test drive and receive a voucher for fuel efficient driving advice / training for up to 4 drivers free of charge.......call now for details” ***** Did you know you may be eligible for an interest free loan from the Scottish Government Energy Saving Trust to fund qualifying low carbon vehicles....call us for details.

Did you know that AIA (Annual Investment Allowance) is changing next April..call us and we’ll keep you in the know and well informed

Exclusive offers for Chamber members. ● New commercials -call us to arrange your bespoke accessory requirements ......towbars, lining, roof bars and more. ● 10% discount on servicing, repairs , parts

● Ford lease - Fiesta Van from £41.99 / Week

● 50% discount on MOT fee

● Ford lease - Transit Connect from £47.99 / Week

● Ask us about our service advantage plan, spreading service & repair costs and giving you additional discount entitlements on many more of your motoring needs

● Ford lease - SWB Transit from £51.99 / Week

● Service and bodyshop courtesy vehicles (subject to forward booking & availability)

● Ford lease - LWB Transit from £69.99 / Week ● Ford lease - Ranger from £59.99 / Week

All you need to do is bring in your copy of this advertisement and proof of chamber membership. ● New car and commercial vehicle sales and service ● MOT and Mechanical repairs ● Ford Accident Repair Centre.

Evans Halshaw Ford Edinburgh 0131 669 6261 graham.west@evanshalshaw.com www.evanshalshaw.com Business Users only. Contract hire based on 48 month non maintenance agreement, 3 payments in advance followed by 47, 10,000 miles per annum. Payments exclude VAT. Weekly equivalents shown, payments must be made monthly.

Terms and conditions apply, finance subject to terms and conditions and underwriting acceptance of provider. Service offers valid until 31/12/2011, finance offers until 31/12/2011, for registration up to 31/12/2011. Ask dealer for details. **** terms and conditions apply to fuel efficient driving offer and interest free loan....please call for details

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ADVertoriAl individual to participate in and contribute to modern society. Today’s work environment requires high levels of communication skills, the ability to solve problems and to work effectively in teams.

Qualifications are essential tools in validating learning for individuals and employers and support the standards of achievement required by the economy, business and society. They also provide a record of progression for individuals as they develop through life, allowing them to build on their prior learning.

Qualifications must reflect the appropriate level of learning, capturing all aspects of the required skills, yet flexible enough to support different learning styles and employer needs. They must be relevant and allow for progression through lifelong learning as the needs of individuals, businesses and society change and they must be of a quality and standard that ensures that their value is maintained over time.

SQA aims to continue improving links with business and industry and is totally committed to the ongoing process of developing new qualifications to meet the ever changing needs of the people of Scotland and the needs of the Scottish economy.

making Skills work for Scotland The Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) is an executive non-departmental public body (NDPB), responsible for developing, accrediting, assessing and certificating the vast majority of Scottish qualifications.

The skills challenge is an increasingly important focus for countries across the world - but Scotland has recognised that success is not merely about a highly educated workforce. Achieving sustainable economic growth will only be possible by making those academic and vocational skills relevant

and ensuring that these skills are applied in the workplace - whatever the nature of that workplace.

These skills include those that are jobspecific and associated with a given industry sector, updated and honed as demands change. There are also personal and learning skills that enable individuals to become effective lifelong learners by adapting to a changing environment. There are the fundamental skills of literacy and numeracy and increasingly IT capability, essential for an

It is crucial that employers and managers, in both the public and private sectors, can make sense of the range of qualifications that potential employees hold, and it is equally important that they can calculate the value of the courses and qualifications that they make available to staff, in line with employee development programmes.

SQA is a partner in the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) that helps employers quickly understand the credit value of a multitude of awards available in Scotland. The framework has 12 levels: from level 1 for basic education, to level 12 for postgraduate qualifications.

The SCQF is designed to bring clarity and ease of understanding to all qualifications and works towards supporting business.

To find out more about SQA’s qualifications and other services please call 0303 333 0330 or visit www.sqa.org.uk

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Gettingstarted New Clean Tech Centre of Excellence to create 1,000 new apprenticeships Jewel & Esk College has announced the launch of a new Centre of Excellence in Engineering and Clean Technology which will create 1,000 new apprenticeships in the energy, oil and gas sector.

The new Centre of Excellence is being driven

by Professor Steve Tinsley, an expert in the oil and gas industry who has recently joined Jewel & Esk College as Director of Innovation and Enterprise. He has more than 15 years of experience in the energy sector, working with the likes of Shell, Elf and the Dutch energy giant, Unocal.

Name: Fiona Haynes & Claire Simmons Business name: newfuture.me Start up date: 6/4/10 Website: www.newfuture.me Q1: Tell us a bit about your business?

Newfuture.me provides Career Transition and Outplacement Services- we help you realise your new future (hence the company name).

Q2: What gives your business ‘the x-factor’?

Uniquely, we truly shape practical cost effective solutions designed to address your needs and tailored exclusively to your budget Q3: What motivated you to set up in business for yourself?

Knowledge that we can do it better than the competition and the flexibility of working for ourselves Q4: What do you like most about working for yourself?

Creating and delivering a product that really works and the satisfaction of seeing our clients succeed

40

Commenting on the launch of the new centre Professor Tinsley said: “This new centre is a commercial entity, created both to expand the college’s existing engineering offer and as an economy driver for the industry and for the wider Scottish economy.

“Working with our industry sector partners such as OPITO, we know that this new centre will help create more than 1,000 new apprenticeships over a four year period which, most importantly, will end with a job opportunity for a high percentage* of the apprentices”.

Q5: What has been your greatest business success to date?

Landing our first major corporate contract

“Engineering and clean technology is not an area we can afford to ignore. It needs investment to match the growth opportunities and investment in skills to meet the current and future industry skills gaps.”

Q6: What has been your lowest moment?

Realising our original marketing approach wasn’t working and starting again

Jewel & Esk College has committed £150,000 this year to develop its engineering capability, with a bit of ambition to create one of the best engineering facilities in the country. It is one of only three colleges in the UK which provide accredited training for OPITO, the global skills and learning platform for the oil and gas industry.”

Q7: In terms of business achievements, where do you want to be within the next 5 years?

Recognised as market leaders in our field and renowned for delivering a high quality service that really meets our clients’ needs.

Q8: What would be your top tip to someone thinking of starting up their own business?

Choose a good business partner invaluable for sharing the highs and lows

The college Engineering and Technology team has been involved with high profile clean-tech projects, such as the Electric Vehicles; a Jewel and Esk led programme to raise the awareness of electric vehicles and monitor and research their performance.

Other partners include Mitsubishi, Siemens, SEStran, Stevenson College and Edinburgh Napier University.

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ADVertoriAl

Why tree planting is good for business Companies are now finding that they HAVE to be green to be competitive. The expertise on offer at Trees4Scotland show them not only how to do this but how to turn it to their advantage and win new business.

While planting trees alone is a noble gesture companies might be excused for shifting noble gestures down the priorities list when times are tough. Trees4Scotland, however, can show you how to make it a cost effective and rewarding experience – in more ways than one.

Any business engaging with Trees4Scotland get access to a comprehensive benefits package including: • ‘Supporting Trees4Scotland’ branding • Networking opportunities and introductions via their Eco Hub • Recognition via their extensive networks • The opportunity to produce bespoke planting certificates for customers • PR opportunities onsite at their various woodlands • Full support to convey the green message effectively Angus Crabbie, Founder of Trees4Scotland comments, “Thankfully being green is now something that is consumer driven. All we do is help our customers get the best possible value out of any relationship with us”.

Check out their website www.trees4scotland.com Contact Angus on 07714343158 or by emailing gus@trees4scotland.com

Grow your business by

PLANTING

Ŕ 3FXBSE DVTUPNFST Ŕ 0ŢTFU DBSCPO Ŕ 4VQQPSU 4DPUMBOE

TREES! Enjoy a branding & benefits package with Trees4Scotland Contact Angus on 07714343158 or email gus@trees4scotland.com

www.trees4scotland.com December 2011 January 2012

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A busy year - a promising outlook for the Royal Highland Centre From the skirl of hundreds of bagpipes at the Edinburgh Pipe Band Championship, the screams of over 13,000 JLS fans and the arrival of 1500 martial arts experts for the JKS World Karate Championships, the Royal Highland Centre has had one of its busiest periods in its 50 year history.

And, as the venue embarks on a massive £30 million investment to develop its conference and exhibition facilities, it remains committed to growing the business and welcoming new clients in 2012.

The VisitScotland expo 2012 will be hosted at the Royal Highland Centre in April, as it returns to the capital after a five year absence. Around 250 tourism businesses will showcase their products to tour operators from all over the world in the Centre’s Highland Hall.

For the first time in a number of years, the Scottish Golf Show returns to Edinburgh, as it aims to open the event to new markets in 2012. The show which has been at the SECC in Glasgow for the past three events will take place from 30th March to 1st April.

RHC hosts the JKS World Karate Championships (Maverick)

Hundreds of pipers and drummers descended on the Royal Highland Centre for the inaugural Edinburgh Pipe Band Championship (Maverick)

Archie Glendinning, director of the Royal Highland Centre said: “Last year, we held over 200 events, which brought hundreds of thousands of visitors through our doors. But the last few months rate as some of the busiest in our 50 year history, showcasing the versatility of our offering as Scotland’s largest indoor and outdoor event venue.

“As we look ahead, we will continue to drive the growth of the business as we welcome new clients including the VisitScotland expo and the Scottish Golf Show, while improving our offering as part of our substantial £30 million investment.”

To find out more about the Royal Highland Centre please visit www.royalhighlandcentre.org.uk or call us on 0131 335 6200

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The Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce welcomes its latest member companies: Gary Wood RUVisa Limited Pink Connect Edinburgh Stewart Campbell Flooring Home Insulations (Scotland) Limited Polwarth Pharmacy Info Energy Realise Residence Inn By Marriott Edinburgh Dymanic Masonry Santander Business & Corporate Banking M & M Joinery Rollingball Tennis Perdiccas Gilded Interiors Michael Page Recruitment LEBC Group Limited Sutherland Independent Limited Stewart Joinery Abbot Dundas DLM Research Limited Agile Resourcing Back2Fitness Scotland Limited Meeting Room, The Volkswagen Van Centre Hunter Adams Limited Biz Sense Contracts Limited Fone Tek Rowanbank Financial Consultants Limited New Gym B&B Edinburgh Titus PR Limited W3i Consulting Limited MSK Language Solutions Guddlebusters Edinburgh Renewable Energy Uncommon Sense (Scotland) Limited Clementine Home & Gift Limited Supply Communications Alsop Lawrie Limited

Scotland’s only 5-star concert venue Edinburgh’s Usher Hall has been honoured with a 5-star award for excellence from VisitScotland.

Councillor Deidre Brock, City of Edinburgh Councils Culture and Leisure Convene, added: “This is an amazing achievement and very well deserved.

“Since it underwent its major refurbishment, the Usher Hall has reclaimed its rightful position as a major international concert hall and this new rating helps cement its already sterling reputation.”

Star Experience! I am very proud of the hard work put in by our dedicated staff who helped win this award and I hope they are pleased to have their turn under the spotlights. This recognition of their efforts is truly a big pat on the back for everyone.”

Jonathan Mills, Edinburgh International Festival Director, said: “The Usher Hall is a terrific venue with a world class acoustic.

The Festival has enjoyed presenting concerts there since its very first opening concert on 24 August 1947. With the recent investment by the City of Edinburgh Council it now gives audiences and artists an even more comfortable and enjoyable experience. I’m very pleased to hear it has been awarded 5 star status.”

Karl Chapman, General Manager of the Usher Hall, said: “We have the world’s greatest artists gracing our stage and we’ve been working to ensure that our customer service is also of the highest standard.

Winning this award proves that we’re giving our audiences both 5 Star Music and a 5

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IX Energy is the solution

Our Goals To have team of professionals with diversified and integrated skills, so that their studies and projects are result of combination of technical, economic and environmental knowledge.

To achieve excellence based on up to date training and application of innovative techniques.

To preserve natural resources, ensuring the sustainability of the projects, and compensate or mitigate impacts.

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Partnersinenterprise Business leaders back Scotland’s first university ‘Sales Division’ New training aims to plug Scottish “sales skills gap” and boost economy.

He said:“Sales is a profession and should be taken seriously. In the very short period of time we’ve been working with the University we’ve already had some great individual success stories from our partners.

Scotland’s first ever university sales division has been launched in a bid to plug the country’s ‘sales skills gap’ and boost the economy.

“Our hope is that this new sales division of the Institute will expand the talent pool for sales training in Scotland but also bring Scotland onto a broader stage.”

The move, by Edinburgh Napier University, has received wide backing from the business community, including the Institute of Directors in Scotland and The Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce.

Tony Douglas, Director of the new Sales Division of the University’s Edinburgh Institute, said:“It is widely recognised in the Scottish business community that the sales skills required to meet today’s business challenges are lacking in this country. In contrast, American business schools have been leading the way in this field for the last 10 years.

“We need to banish the reputation of dodgy salesmen and recognise the essential role sales skills play in making a business profitable.”

Derrick McCourt, Regional Director, Scotland & Wales at Microsoft Corporation, has been working closely with the University to help deliver accredited sales training for Microsoft’s business partners.

The University is working with Sandler Sales Training Scotland and The Russ Berrie Institute for Professional Sales in the United States to take selling up the Scottish business agenda and deliver consultancy services to Scottish SMEs.

Edinburgh Napier students as well as the business community are set to benefit from the move, with those studying a business-related course able to gain academic credits in sales as part of their degree.

David Watt, Executive Director for the Institute of Directors in Scotland, added:“The Sales Division is highly welcome.There is little doubt that in recent years, selling is one of the skills that has been under significant scrutiny in the Scottish business arena.

“With the addition of the competitiveness within global markets, it is all the more important that Scottish businesses benefit from education programmes to help close the country’s sales skill gap.”

Mike Rutterford, co-founder of Archangel Investments, is among a number of high profile business figures who have backed the Sales Division launch.

He said:“Scotland is great at inventing things but lousy at selling them and until now there’s been no mechanism to address that professionally.

“The lifeblood of any successful business is sales, but people are scared to use the word and think it’s a bit grubby. But at the end of the day everything we consume other than the air we breathe is directly being sold to us.”

tony Douglas

Find out more about our Partners in enterprise on our website: www.edinburghchamber.co.uk in the ‘About us’ section.

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moversandshakers new Outsourcing director appointed

Hr company secures new clients In just one hundred days since Dean Hunter established HR consultancy Hunter Adams, his new company secured global contracts worth more than £400,000.

RSM Tenon has appointed Brian Hay-Smith as Outsourcing Director in Scotland to further enhance the company’s growth north of the border.

Brian had worked for the past eleven years at the whisky company Chivas Brothers in a number of roles with the most recent being Financial Controller, a position he held for six years.

He will be working alongside Keith Marshall, Outsourcing Director, and be based between RSM Tenon’s offices in Edinburgh, Glasgow,

Grangemouth and Perth where 20 directors and more than 250 professional staff are based to deliver specialist advisory, tax, audit, recovery, outsourcing and corporate finance services to Scottish businesses.

Rocco Forte Hotels has announced the appointment of Franck Arnold as general manager of The Balmoral in Edinburgh. Mr Arnold takes over from Ivan Artolli who was recently promoted to director of operations for the group’s properties in the UK, Belgium and Eastern Europe.

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Dean said: “I can’t believe how rapidly Hunter Adams has grown since its birth on 7 June.

I secured one client before even registering the company and a further six in the first five weeks of business. Now, we’re getting at least one new lead each week. It’s incredibly encouraging.”

ryden appoints new planning partner in edinburgh

Hotel appoints General manager

With more than 20 years in the luxury hospitality industry, Mr Arnold brings with him a wealth of experience. He joins The Balmoral from The Jefferson Hotel in Washington DC, where as managing director, he oversaw an extensive renovation of the property.

Hunter Adams, a Scottish firm with bases in Aberdeen and Edinburgh, secured seven long-term clients and is already working in Norway, Singapore and Australia. Clients include an Aberdeen-based oil and gas operator, charities Cornerstone and Inspire,Viking Moorings, Hallin Marine and WGPSN, a division of Wood Group with 23,000 employees globally.

Dean was retained to lead the people side of the Wood Group PSN merger.

Property advisor Ryden has announced the appointment of a new partner to its Consulting Group (property market research and planning)

In his new role, Franck Arnold will oversee all aspects of the iconic Edinburgh hotel. He will be responsible for its day to day operations; the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant number one; Hadrian’s and Palm Court; The Bollinger Bar and its meetings & events’ facilities.

Marc Giles, an experienced town planner, is based in the firm’s Edinburgh office. He joins from Rapleys LLP, where he managed the planning department in Scotland for six years. Previously he worked for DTZ and Halliday Fraser Munro.

Dr Mark Robertson, head of consulting, said: “Marc’s experience and knowledge of planning in Scotland is a great

supplement to our existing offering to clients.� As�markets emerge from recession, demand for residential, industrial and commercial property in our cities and towns will increase.� We are pleased to have positioned ourselves for this with Marc’s appointment.”

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BC 47 DHLissue SOY14.indd Advert 270x210mm ESSEX.indd 1

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