Business Connect 09

connect business

AUTUMN2015 ISSUE 9

MID, EAST AND WEST LOTHIAN CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Auto-enrolment, are you ready? chamber news

features

business news

views

interviews

Best Airline in the Middle East Best Airline in the

World’s BestEast Middle Business Class Seat

World’s Best Business Class Seat

Airline of the Year

Airline of the Year

Proud to be voted the

World’s World’s Best Airline Best Airline Proud to be voted the

are proud be voted the World’s Best Airline theYear Year We areWe proud to be to voted the World’s Best Airline ofof the by a group of extremely important people. Our passengers. y a group of extremely important people. Our passengers.

On behalf of everyone at Qatar Airways, we would like to express our heartfelt

n behalf of everyone at Qatar Airways, would like to express our heartfelt thanks to the millions of people whowe voted for us. hanks to the millions of people who voted for us.

We look forward to welcoming you onboard Qatar Airways for a truly rewarding

departure to arrival.

We look experience forward tofrom welcoming you onboard Qatar Airways for a truly rewarding xperience from departure to arrival. qatarairways.co.uk

atarairways.co.uk * Skytrax is acknowledged as a truly global, independent aviation industry monitor. Results of the 2015 World Airline Awards are derived from millions of passenger surveys involving travellers from 160 different countries.

Skytrax is acknowledged as a truly global, independent aviation industry monitor. Results of the 2015 orld Airline Awards are derived from millions of passenger surveys involving travellers from 160 different countries.

World’s 5-star airline.

World’s 5-star airline.

contents

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‘I don’t understand why more people don’t join the Armed Forces Reserves?’

Business Connect is a joint Midlothian, East Lothian and West Lothian Chambers of Commerce publication.

ALL EDITORIAL AND GENERAL ENQUIRIES: For Midlothian and East Lothian Chamber of Commerce Tel: 0131 603 5040 email: dita@thebusinesspartnership.org.uk Midlothian and East Lothian Chamber of Commerce Moulsdale House 24D Milton Road East Edinburgh EH15 2PP www.melcc.org.uk

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MELCC is going for growth

Chief Executive: George Archibald For West Lothian Chamber of Commerce Tel: 01506 412909 email: brenda.cumming@wlchamber.com

Plans for £80m Innovation Hub at Queen Margaret University unveiled

West Lothian Chamber of Commerce Alba Centre, Alba Business Park Rosebank, Livingston EH54 7EG www.wlchamber.com

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Chief Executive: Linda Scott PRODUCTION & DESIGN Distinctive Publishing Unit 6b, Floor B, Milburn House Dean Street, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 1LE Tel: 0845 884 2384 www.distinctivepublishing.co.uk

The tidal wave of Pension Autoenrolment for Small Businesses is about to crash

ADVERTISING Distinctive Publishing Unit 6b, Floor B, Milburn House Dean Street, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 1LE Tel: 0845 884 2343 email: john.neilson@distinctivegroup.co.uk

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FEATURE EDITORS John Dean & Francis Griss email: deangriss@btinternet.com DISCLAIMER Distinctive Publishing or Business Connect 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 Connect.

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HIAN EST LOT T AND W MID, EAS

CHAMBE

OMMER RS OF C

NES CE BUSI

IN S MAGAZ

AUTUMN2015

ISSUE 9

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Linda Scott leads The Chamber Warriors to victory!

Company is on the right road

Contents

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Finance News

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Chamber News

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Ask the expert

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Members News

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Big Interview

Chamber News

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Members News

Chamber News

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Marketing News

Premier Partners Chamber News Cover Feature

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Members News

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New Members Members Close Up

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Premier Partners

ready? ent, are you Auto-enrolm s chamber new

features

s business new

views

interviews

MARKETING

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chambernews

MELCC is going for growth Midlothian and East Lothian Chamber of Commerce (MELCC) are going for further growth after a terrific year in which membership has soared to over 200 for the first time in years.

That’s the pledge of George Archibald, the Chamber’s Chief Executive, who told the chamber’s AGM last August that connection, communication and collaboration were the key elements in the strategy moving forward.

He told the audience at the Pentland Science Park that the chamber had 213 members and seven Premier Partners. What’s more, they email communications to over 1,000 people and their Business Connect magazine has a circulation of 2,500-plus.

The chamber, who host their annual business awards in the Brunton Theatre, Musselburgh on October 28, concentrate on networking and business mentoring and offer a membership discount scheme plus HR support and a legal advice line.

Going forward, the goals this year include strengthening links with organisations like the Federation of Small Businesses, Business Gateway and the Scottish Chambers of Commerce.

The chamber also looked to increase their promotion through their social media channels and their website which is currently being re-designed and they are looking to up their green credentials through innovative ideas.

He said: “Growing your business is one of our slogans and that is one of our main aims.

“We do that through organising events like our Borders Railway Breakfast which attracted nearly 130 people. We had visits to Torness Power Station last year and we also hosted joint chamber lunches with West Lothian and Borders champers. Overall, our programme of events attracted nearly 1,000 people.”

“It’s been a terrific year for the chamber with membership over 200 for the first time in several years. However, we want everybody to become more involved with the chamber and to find out how the chamber can help you.” www.melcc.org.uk

Year of change at ABC Events It’s been a year of change at ABC Events as the newly rebranded company looks to increase sales by 28 per cent.

The appointment of MD Bob Scott (left) in December 2014 saw the Falkirk firm rebrand and develop its service range from event equipment hire to event management.

Since then, MD Scott and sales and marketing manager Kirsty Campbell have set about rejuvenating the company “from the foundations up”, with new event services including team building, outdoor pursuits, conference and event management and evening entertainment.

With ambitious plans to increase sales in 2015 by 28 per cent, the team has continued

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to expand and offer new opportunities for what the firm has dubbed “Event Enthusiasts”.

MD Scott said: “Looking back at the transformation, we have come a long way since December from the rebrand. With the introduction of a more fluid sales process, a bigger focus on customer service, the ABC training academy and the introduction of five new services we are moving forward and building upon the solid foundations we have established.

“Of course we will be delighted if we hit the 28 per cent increase, but I am already so proud of all we have achieved.”

Kirsty Campbell said: “We have spent time hitting the road and re-educating our clients on what we offer, this has been massively important to our growth. We want to retain the loyalty of old ABC customers and inspire new ones to give us a go.

“We have now established a really creative and inspiring team at ABC Events, each member of our team has an individual strength which they bring to the table every day, we work hard but we also ensure ABC Events is a fun place to work with regular random happenings around the office.” www.abc-events.co.uk

The December rebrand saw the introduction of a brightly coloured and bold new logo, as well as the creation of the hashtag #weareABC. Since then, ABC Events staff have been travelling the country to spread the word about the firm’s new offer.

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membersnews

‘I don’t understand why more people don’t join the Armed Forces Reserves?’ of a Regular soldier right up to gaining a Masters degrees.

Brigadier Paul Harkness, Head of the 51st Infantry Brigade and Headquarters Scotland, is proud of what the Military can offer the business sector: “The service a Reservist delivers, their skills, qualifications and active challenges which support their health and well-being are second to none”, and continues, “These attributes are transferrable to the employer be they personal development, leadership and management, or, indeed, skills required for the workplace such a First Aid, H&S, driving – the opportunities are varied and endless.”

Staff Sergeant Stuart ‘Stu’ Low

This comment was made by Army Reserve Staff Sergeant Stuart ‘Stu’ Low (48) during an interview for a profile article on how the Armed Forces Reserve benefits both individuals and businesses alike in preparation for Civil Service Warrior – two one day events to be held in Glasgow and Edinburgh in October.

A Planning Manager within the Scottish Government’s NHS Resilience Management Division, Stu joined 205(Scottish) Field Hospital nearly 30 years ago as a Combat Medical Technician with the thought that he could transfer his first aid skills into his civilian workplace.

It was soon became evident that not only did Stu enjoy and benefit from all the training courses, adventure training and responsibilities that come with his Army Reserve career, but that his work also reaped the benefits “Being a Reservist really pushes you out of your comfort zone and cultivates a can do attitude. It makes you more resilient, mentally and physically, and really develops self confidence in your ability to take on new challenges.”

Stu explained further: “Working within a reservist medical unit also provides me with an interesting insight into how government policy impacts on the NHS and its relationship with the Defence Medical Services, which can be useful from my civilian work perspective.”

Training in the Armed Forces Reserve can be worth up to £22 000 to an employer and qualifications and skillsets varying from the day to day high standard and values, work ethics and personal development expected

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From the employers perspective, Stuart Laing, Simulation Portfolio Manager for G2G3 manages a team of six consultants, two of whom are serving reservist officers with the Scottish and North Irish Yeomanry and a further two are ex-regular officers from the Royal Regiment of Scotland.

“Reservists are a known quantity. You know, due to the very nature of the Reserve selection procedure and training, that your employee will be reliable, honest and play an active part in the teambuilding structure of a business.”

Volunteering their spare time at weekends and evenings, Army, Royal Navy and Royal Air Force Reservists volunteer to join the Army Forces on a part-time basis for many and varied reasons: “I wanted something interesting to do in my spare time” explains Private John White (27), a self-employed joiner who has recently joined 51 Signals Squadron in Edinburgh as a telecommunications operator. “I wanted to

Private John White

push myself to the limits of my physical and metal capabilities.”

Reserve Units, based throughout Scotland, have different challenges dependant on their role; there are well over 100 different trades to choose from including electrical and mechanical engineering, logistics, HR, catering, intelligence, medical and, of course, combat soldier. They all, however, regardless of which service, deliver the skilled attributes valued by civilian bosses nationwide with no financial or practical detriment to the business.

Taking the lead for employer engagement within Scotland, Lieutenant Colonel Gordon Mackenzie summarises his role: “The increased part the Reserves will play in defence of the UK provides significant opportunities for the reservist and employer.

It is a symbiotic relationship, because both parties gain from the world-class training delivered by the Royal Navy, Army, or Royal Air Force – it is a win-win for all concerned”.

And finally, why does Stu, who has a host of sport, adventure training and leadership qualifications gained through the Army Reserve still keep going to training nights and weekends?

“Because I really enjoy it. In this case it is definitely true that the more you put in the more you get out. Skills, qualifications, experiences, opportunities and friendships forged through both achievement and adversity. It is a very unique experience.”

If you want to find out how the Armed Forces Reserves can help your business please contact Lieutenant Colonel Gordon Mackenzie on 51X-Emp-Engt_SO1@mod.uk

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chambernews

Transition to excellence The final version of ISO 9001:2015 will be published this year and September in all likelihood.

There is then the normal three years to transition.

There is a lot of really good, common sense change in this version – no explicit commitment to a Quality Manual, a focus on Leadership from top management and no requirement for a management representative, and language and structure – all based around a companion document called Annex SL – that makes integration with other management system standards very straightforward. The environment and health and safety standards will follow this new structure and also be updated this year for the ISO 14001 environment standard and next year for ISO 45001 the new health and safety standard replacing BS OHSAS 18001.

There are challenges and opportunities in all change. The introduction of risk based thinking into the standard and the need to demonstrate the effectiveness of the Quality Management System can be a spur to transition to a new level of performance not just a new version of a piece of paper.

Where there is real commitment the transition should be straightforward, where Quality has been a paper exercise only this change will be more challenging.

There is plenty of assistance from all the certification bodies and related organisations

to assist you in this exercise and you have time available to make the best possible job.

We are focussing on producing accredited Organisation and auditor transition courses on-line, with accompanying live audit for both and including an explicit focus on effectiveness of the Quality Management System. These will provide flexible and cost saving alternatives yet retain virtually all the benefits of class room based courses.

Contact paul.hayes@kmsltd.com for more details on the transition and any help you might need.

Free Environmental Guidance for Business Would you like clear guidance on environmental regulations - covering topics such as Air, Waste, Water, Transport and Energy?

practice in offices and transport. n The environmental compliance self-

assessment tool – designed to let businesses review their main activities and find out if they have any areas needing attention. It generates a report that is completely anonymous, and can be used for a programme of improvement. Split into 5 sections: Waste, Water, Air, Materials and equipment, Hazardous substances.

If so you can go to Netregs for guidance that is: n Written in plain English, avoiding legal

jargon n Checked over by specialists in SEPA n Free to use

n Soon to be launched mobile APP

n Up to date

NetRegs provides guidance by Business sector, or you can search the library of topics for a specific subject.

We keep legislation lists which outline the key pieces of legislation that businesses may be required to comply with.

In addition we have: n A free monthly email update – keeping

you informed of new legislation, consultations and events that could be of interest

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– providing quickstart checklists to ensure compliance and help to identify any issues. n e-learning tools to refresh your

understanding of key topics – covering Duty of Care, Sinks drains and sewers, WEEE, Generating renewable energy and a general guide to preventing pollution. n Video clips to illustrate good practice,

including Construction, Agriculture and general business topics, including oil storage, reducing carbon, good

All are free to use, and available online.

They are designed to help businesses comply with environmental law and to reduce their impact on the environment.

NetRegs is a partnership between SEPA and the NIEA. We provide guidance on environmental regulation and good practice advice, aimed at SMEs in Scotland and Northern Ireland. Visit www.netregs.org.uk

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chambernews

How to support the Smarter Travel West Lothian initiative Small steps

Organisations generate a large number of trips by staff, visitors, students, deliveries or servicing.

If your organisation would like to promote smarter travel choices generally but you’re not quite sure where to start – take small steps. Plan for quick wins within a longer term strategy.

For some early steps, try the following: n Update your website with information

Smarter ways of thinking about travel and transport can help your organisation relieve parking pressures, reduce your carbon footprint and even reduce business travel costs. There are lots of different things that you can do from simply providing travel information to your staff, visitors and customers, to promoting car sharing, preparing a travel plan, organising bike rides and reducing the need to travel.

Smarter Travel Choices for Organisations Smarter Choices, Smarter Places (SCSP) is a Scottish Government grant scheme to support behaviour change initiatives to increase active and sustainable travel modes, particularly for everyday journeys. The programme is funded by Transport Scotland and administered by Paths for All. As part of West Lothian Council’s SCSP programme for 2015/16, the Council is already working with a number of organisations including West Lothian College. Support is still on offer to other organisations through the programme, including: n Access to online personalised travel plans

for employees - detailing walking and cycling routes, public transport services and car-share options for the journey to work or college; n Access to related measures such as

cycle training for staff and links to West Lothian’s Tripshare (car sharing) scheme; and n Participation in a workplace challenge to

promote active travel..

myPTP and West Lothian Tripshare In partnership with SEStran (the regional transport partnership for South East of Scotland), West Lothian Tripshare provides an easy and free way to arrange car-sharing journeys. The system is part of the national car-sharing scheme provided by Liftshare.

Registration is free and easy for any

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on how to reach your site sustainably, such as Traveline Scotland and the West Lothian CycleStreets journey planner. n Promote West Lothian Tripshare to

individual – simply sign in and log a journey you want to share (as a passenger or a driver, or both). Organisations can also set up a private group within the system for an additional fee.

As part of the SCSP programme in West Lothian, a personalised travel plan service has been set up. Called “myPTP”, individuals are provided with an online list of smarter travel choices to their workplace –public transport services and times, walking and cycling routes (and calories burnt!), and car-sharing options. myPTP links directly into West Lothian Tripshare, so it is a good idea to promote Tripshare amongst employees prior to myPTP to maximise sign-ups and the chance of a journey match. The myPTP is delivered directly to the individual’s e-mailbox with a handy set of online maps.

Workplace Challenge and cycle training Everyone loves a bit of competition and West Lothian is no different! As part of the SCSP programme, West Lothian Council is supporting a number of workplace teams to enter the Paths for All Stepcount challenge in October. Over a four week period, workplace teams can log their daily physical activity and compete with teams all over Scotland. A pedometer is provided to log daily steps, whilst cycling and swimming can also be logged via the challenge website. All with the chance to win some great prizes at the end.

To get your workforce ready for the challenge, the Council is offering access to free places on Cycle Ride Leader courses in September and October. Train up a member of staff to be a ride leader, and then organise some lunchtime bike rides for some light training!

employees. Offer an incentive to those who sign up to the scheme during a promotional period – even something as simple as a chocolate bar can have results! n Have a cycling promotion day. Offer

cyclists free breakfast, arrange a Dr Bike session, organise a lunchtime cycle ride and hand out some cycle maps. A more active workforce is healthier and less prone to absenteeism.

Further down the line, you might want to consider the following: n Install cycle parking in a prominent place

near the entrance. Covered and secure parking is an even better incentive for staff and visitors to cycle to your site. n Carry out a Sustainable Business

Transport Review, offered free by the Energy Savings Trust in Scotland. From web and teleconferencing to paying cycle mileage for shorter business trips, there’s lots of ways to save money and reduce your carbon footprint. n Go electric. Whether you’re buying or

replacing a vehicle, consider an electric vehicle (EVs). They can save your organisation money in the long-run and cut carbon emissions. Funding is available via a number of schemes to reduce the upfront costs.

For more information on how to make smarter travel choices, head to www.westlothian.gov.uk/smarter-travel.

If you are interested in delivering myPTP, the workplace challenge or cycle training in your organisation, or would like to discuss anything within this article in more detail, contact Deborah.Paton@westlothian.gov.uk.

westlothian.gov.uk

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Completing Scotland’s land register

Charles Keegan is Head of Land Register Completion at Registers of Scotland (RoS).

His team are working to fulfil the request by Scottish Ministers for RoS to complete the land register within ten years.

Scotland has the distinction of holding the world’s oldest land register which has enabled land and property owners to register their deeds and provide security of ownership for almost 400 years.

Registers of Scotland (RoS) is the body responsible for registering land and property. Since the early 1980s we have been transferring titles from the old General Register of Sasines onto a more modern, map-based register, the land register. Once complete this will provide a clear picture of who owns what and where across Scotland.

The transfer onto the newer register has happened mostly through trigger events, such as property sales. To date around 59 per cent of all Scottish property, which equates to around 27 per cent of land mass, has been transferred onto the land register.

Last year, Scottish Ministers invited RoS to complete the land register by 2019 for land and property owned by public bodies and by 2024 for private and third sector landowners.

This is a challenging target, but a recent act of parliament, the Land Registration etc.

(Scotland) Act 2012, implemented last year allows us to introduce additional triggers to help RoS achieve our objective.

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A single, comprehensive, publicly searchable register that gives clarity on who owns what will be a national asset for Scotland and will make future transactions on land and property faster, easier and cheaper for owners as all land will be recorded centrally on the digital map-based register.

You don’t have to wait for a trigger event to get on the land register. Voluntary registration is one of the main ways we can speed up the completion process and RoS has reduced fees for voluntary applications by 25 per cent until 2017. This is to encourage land and property owners to update their records and add their assets to the land register. This will provide them with a state-backed guarantee of title for greater security.

While our primary focus is on encouraging voluntary registration, there are levers that have been put in place through legislation which will support our commitment to completing the land register.

One such lever allows the keeper of the registers to consider registering land, without input from the landowner, at her discretion.

This process, keeper induced registration (KIR), has been piloted and RoS is consulting this autumn on how we envisage the process being used going forward.

If you are interested in registering your land or property, or would like to participate in the KIR consultation, please visit: www.ros.gov.uk

To assist in the completion of the land register it will not be possible to record a standard security in the deeds based General Register of Sasines from 1st April 2016. This means that applicants seeking a mortgage with a new lender will need to prepare a voluntary registration along with any new standard security for their asset to move onto the land register.

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premierpartner

Plans for £80m Innovation Hub supporting 13,000 jobs at Queen Margaret University unveiled

Queen Margaret University has released new images of a commercial and innovation hub which could support up to 13,000 jobs which it plans to submit to East Lothian Council in response to the next stage of the Local Development Plan.

The University is preparing a Masterplan and Delivery Strategy, and has put forward a Proposal of Application Notice (PAN) for an investment ready business hub on the land adjacent to its Musselburgh campus it believes is needed to drive sustainable economic development that will benefit communities in East Edinburgh, Lothian and Border regions.

The University has identified food and drink, entrepreneurship and creative industry, and biomedical and enabling technologies for rehabilitation as key areas of innovation and growth. Phase One of the innovation park is for the development of a 5,000 sqm innovation centre.

The co-located commercial development will create a vibrant area that combines

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innovation activity with the support of the University’s academic resources together with local amenities. It is a community focused scheme that will provide a range of facilities including retail, coffee shops, health and fitness, hotel and residential accommodation.

QMU Principal Professor Petra Wend said: “We have drawn on international best practice in developing our plans. A £1bn city region deal bid has been submitted

by Edinburgh and the south east area of Scotland which concentrates on the region’s strengths of knowledge culture and technology. Although still in its early stage, we are confident that if the deal progresses that our proposals would be relevant for inclusion.’

“QMU has a key role as a catalyst to attract high growth SMEs to East Lothian and to work with them to achieve Scotland’s economic aspirations in partnership with industry bodies, other learning institutions and Government Agencies. To achieve this potential, the land adjacent to our campus must be retained for the development of specialist facilities needed to support business growth.”

QMU has been a key player in transforming the food and drink sector from one deemed to have a ‘low capacity for innovation’ to a sector that now rivals oil and gas in terms of innovation-led economic growth.

QMU’s pioneering work in SME innovation, in collaboration with Edinburgh Napier University and the University of St Andrews,

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premierpartner

QMU has a key role as a catalyst to attract high growth SMEs to East Lothian and to work with them to achieve Scotland’s economic aspirations in partnership with industry bodies, other learning institutions and Government Agencies.

has also been successful in attracting the largest Scottish Government SEEKIT grant (£905k) ever awarded, matched by a European Regional Development Grant.

This award transformed the innovation landscape in Scotland and QMU’s activities are regularly cited as a model of good practice in collaborative innovation infrastructure aligned to Scotland’s European Smart Specialisation Strategy.

QMU is already committed to a partnership with East Lothian Council and has created an on-campus Business Innovation Zone (BIZ) which includes the Council’s Business Gateway, the first time a Business Gateway has been based in a Scottish university.

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advertorial

Over 600 organisations have benefited from working with West Lothian College West Lothian College is one of the country’s top providers of bespoke learning and development solutions for business organisations.

The College campus is situated in Livingston, just off the M8 between Edinburgh and Glasgow and within one of Scotland’s most vibrant business communities.

West Lothian College plays a leading role in developing and supporting Scotland’s future workforce. With a proven track record in developing and delivering demand led training, both on and off site, we pride ourselves on building long lasting and effective partnerships with local and national employers across all of our curriculum areas.

Successful organisations understand the importance of investing in their staff and West Lothian College is committed to providing businesses with opportunities to develop staff to gain the right skills, experience and attitude to be high performing employees.

In addition to our bespoke consultancy service, we also offer a wide range of

accredited professional qualifications including Management, Leadership, Health and Social Care, Health and Safety, Security Industry Authority CCTV Operations, Door Supervision, Security Guard and Food Hygiene. All of these courses may be supported by ILA funding.

The College offers development opportunities from SCQF level 4 through to SCQF level 10 and we engage with partner Universities to provide locally delivered degree courses that are designed to meet the needs of industry.

We offer a completely flexible delivery approach in the workplace or on the College campus. Our innovative e-learning technology offers a range of high quality

learning courses that can be accessed at any time or place to suit the individual.

The College also has excellent conferencing facilities which we hire at competitive rates.

We can accommodate all group sizes for meetings and conferences as well as up to 800 people for large, corporate events. The College also provides high quality hospitality and events management support.

For further details, and to find out more about what West Lothian College can do for your business, please call us on 01506 427955, e-mail business@west-lothian.ac.uk or visit www.west-lothian.ac.uk

West Lothian College could help your business prosper through bespoke staff training Investing in a well trained, skilled team will bring growth and prosperity to a business especially in a challenging economic climate.

To find out how your business can achieve: n n n n n

Improved efficiency Raised staff motivation Business development Increased profits Enhanced customer satisfaction

Call 01506 427955 email business@west-lothian.ac.uk or visit www.west-lothian.ac.uk

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CHRISTMAS & NEW YEAR 2015 Christmas Fayre: 1st to 24th December 2 Course Lunch – £13.95 3 course £15.95 2 Course Dinner – £16.95 3 course £19.95 Weekend Dinner Discos - £32.50 11th, 12th and 19th December Cabarets with Discos - £35.00 Friday 4th December - Robbie Williams with Amy Winehouse/Blonie Tribute Saturday 5th December - Robbie Williams Tribute Friday 18th December - Glasgow Blues Brothers Loch Maree Dinner Discos Friday 4th, 11th and 18th December - £22.50 Saturday 5th, 12th an d 19th December - £25.00 AVAILABLE FOR PRIVATE PARTIES MINIMUM NUMBERS 60 - 3 COURSE WITH DISCO Senior Citizens Xmas Dance Tuesday 8th or Wednesay 16th December, 1pm - 5pm, 3 Course Lunch - £17.50 Christmas Day Sitting start from 12 Noon reduced menu • Adults £35.00 • Kids £19.95 4 Course Christmas Menu. Adults £52.50 • 5-12 years £24.00 • Under 4 years Free Hogmanay Starthearn Suit £57.50, Dancing to Scott Harvey Band and Coasters Disco with Piper and Drummer at midnight • Loch Maree Suite £50.00 • One O’Eight Cabaret £40.00 Bed and Breakfast £80.00 (per double/twin room)

chambernews

Linda Scott leads The Chamber Warriors to victory!

West Lothian Chamber of Commerce Chief Executive Linda Scott swapped her office for a punishing obstacle course in North Berwick that was held on the 12th September, leading a team of members to complete the notoriously difficult Total Warrior Challenge to raise money for the No Limits Sports Club.

Linda says: “I am extremely proud that The Chamber Warriors completed this tough challenge. It was really hard going at times, but we pulled together as a team and helped each other through. The No Limits Sports Club is a fantastic charity that has done amazing work in the West Lothian community for children and young adults with disabilities, and the team and I are delighted that we were able to help them in this way.”

Linda was joined by Sarah Lee, Managing Director of local PR firm Hot Tin Roof, Alastair and Mhairi MacDonald, who run MacD IT an IT support company and Jim Lenaghan, Managing Director of tech business, RMS Scotland Ltd. The Chamber Warriors prepared for the extreme obstacle course by attending bootcamp style training sessions run by 52nd Lowland, The 6th Battalion of The Royal Regiment of Scotland (6Scots). The team were put through their paces by Colin and Aaron from 6Scots who also joined the team for the challenge, using circuit training, timed

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runs and heavy lifting activities to build their strength and stamina.

This challenging style of training helped the team to face the 12 km all-terrain course, and to overcome the various types of obstacles featured throughout, which included elements of fire, electric shocks, and lots and lots of mud! The team completed the course in a very respectable time of 2 hours 18 minutes

The No Limits Sports Club provides a positive and encouraging environment for young people who experience disabilities and feel restricted due to the lack of appropriate sports facilities.

All funds raised by the team will go towards improving the club’s facilities. If you would like to help the team support the club, donations can still be made on The Chamber Warriors MyDonate webpage: https://mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/ wlchamberwarriors

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Proximity to Edinburgh and national and international transport links Ambitious economic development aims – to make East Lothian the best place in Scotland to live, work and do business East Lothian Works – single point of advice and support to help you locate, recruit and grow One of the fastest growing populations in Scotland Strong food and drink sector, tourism and hospitality industry, sports-based businesses and manufacturing Great housing and schools options plus a university with strong links to business Sunniest climate in Scotland with beautiful coast and countryside and world-famous golfing opportunities

SQA JOURNEYS DEVELOPING THE WORKFORCE OF TOMORROW

Developing the Young Workforce Developing the Young Workforce (DYW) is the Scottish Government’s seven year initiative to improve the options available to young people with more informed and ambitious choices, reducing youth unemployment by preparing young people for the workplace and giving them the skills that employers are looking for.

It is the response to The Commission for Developing Scotland’s Young Workforce, which aimed to ensure that Scotland is producing better qualified, work ready and motivated young people with skills relevant to modern employment opportunities.

SQA Journeys

Find out where SQA Journeys can take your business.

SQA is a key partner in the initiative. We are uniquely placed to deliver DYW because we already work closely with training providers, employers, colleges and schools, as well as local authorities and SDS.

www.sqa.org.uk/journeys

We understand the needs of learners and of employers and how we can help one group to help the other, creating a more qualified, more motivated and more productive workforce.

Our wide range of robust, relevant and respected qualifications link directly into DYW. They are designed and continually reviewed in partnership with industry experts to foster the workplace skills and experience needed in the real working world to make businesses more competitive and Scotland’s economy more dynamic.

These qualifications sit at various levels, allowing the learner to make strides from one qualification to the next or to change paths at an equivalent level.

SQA Working With You Every business working with SQA has a dedicated Account Manager – one point of contact who will take the time to get to know you and how you work, and who understands the particular challenges in your area.

Your Account Manager will advise you on the best possible journey for enhancing your industry’s young workforce. Working together, we can give Scotland a happier, more productive, more reliable and more skilled workforce.

Business Development T: 0303 333 0330 E: mycentre@sqa.org.uk W: www.sqa.org.uk/journeys

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Auto-enrolment, are you ready?

Auto-enrolment is here, washing across the UK in a wave of jargon and confusion that many small business owners just aren’t ready for! Well don’t worry, this article should shine some light on your responsibilities as an employer, hopefully before you hit your looming staging date.

By Ian Pilbeam, HR Dept

So what actually is autoenrolment?

Well, it’s a government initiative designed to encourage more people to put money aside for their pensions; to reduce the burden of an aging population on the State. It will ensure that all eligible jobholders are entered into a qualifying workplace pension scheme from the staging date, leaving them with some retirement provision to call upon in later life!

These new rules are naturally taking employers out of their comfort zone. They must put a pension scheme in place, even though many have little knowledge or experience of the enrolment process. Your first step should be to find out your staging date. Most companies with 50 or more employees will have already staged. The vast majority of UK SMEs are staging over the next two years. To find your staging date, if you don’t already have it, just go to www.thepensionsregulator.gov.uk/ employers/staging-date.aspx and put in your PAYE reference number.

Will auto-enrolment apply to all workers?

No, only those that meet the following four criteria are eligible for auto-enrolment: n Those aged between 22 years and the

state pension age; n Those earning more than £10,000; n Those working in the UK; n Those not currently paying into a

qualifying pension.

But don’t forget, even if a member of staff doesn’t automatically qualify for autoenrolment they might still have the right to opt-in. As the employer, you must be able to arrange this.

Equally, some staff may wish to opt-out, but you can’t induce them to do so.

Which scheme?

There are a myriad of pension providers out there, but not all want to offer schemes to small businesses; and of those that do some are better than others. It is also the

employer’s legal responsibility to make sure they select the best scheme for their workforce.

Is it just about choosing a pension scheme?

Sadly not. You can do auto-enrolment yourself. But with 50 guides and thousands of pages of guidance on the regulators website to trawl through, not to mention big fines if you get it wrong, it’s not surprising that many are looking to outsourced providers to manage the process for them.

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It can help them save time, money and minimise the risks.

The HR Dept can take away the strain, allowing you time to focus on what’s important: running and building your business. With help from The HR Dept you get cost-effective, hassle-free, expert advice on auto enrolment. Not only do we help you implement your scheme, but we provide ongoing support to help keep you compliant. With our backing throughout the auto enrolment process, together with our scheme providers we can negotiate the most appropriate pension scheme for you.

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We also understand that your auto enrolment requirements are an additional cost upon your business. Our scheme is run in conjunction with Workplace Advice Group will serve to implement and manage your auto enrolment scheme on your behalf for a fixed affordable monthly fee, with absolutely no up-front costs.

How do I find out more

And don’t forget, you’ll need to update your employment contracts and handbooks to reflect your new pension scheme! If you need help with this then please get in touch, either to update or create what you need.

We are also delighted to be speaking about auto enrolment at a free Seminar hosted by Midlothian and East Lothian Chamber Board member Christa Cameron on the evening of 1st October in Edinburgh. Please get in touch with ca@cacameron.co.uk for details.

We will be happy to have a free no obligation chat or meeting with you about all of this.

Please contact our Director, Ian Pilbeam on 0131 297 7475 or email Ian.pilbeam@ hrdept.co.uk, www.hrdept.co.uk/offices/ scotland/edinburgh-lothians

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Strap yourself in The tidal wave of Pension Autoenrolment for Small Businesses is about to crash ashore!

Change is not easy.

Sometimes it comes along in small wavelets to which we can adapt gradually. Sometimes it’s in big waves that rock our best-laid business plans. Auto-enrolment is a tsunami and it’s going to be a bumpy ride.

Staging dates for the enrolment of employees into a pension scheme were sent to businesses well in advance, when the tsunami was only a distant ripple on the other side of the ocean. Now it is imminent for some, and fast approaching for the rest.

The Pension Regulator’s (TPR) website is the main source of information from the government. There is no ‘manual’ and many people find the website hard to follow with links leading to links and the simple outline of 11 steps leading into complex questions and warnings of £400 penalties and being taken to employment tribunals if you don’t get it right.

The problem of Auto-enrolment can be broken down into three areas:

Administration This involves assessing your workforce for types of eligibility, communicating with both TPR and your employees to specified deadlines. If you are brave, confident, good with regulations and have the time, you can do this yourself. Or you can outsource it. Assessing the workforce includes the qualifying payments; the ages for those to be automatically enrolled and those that have a right to be enrolled. Some pension funds will help and run this for you. Some payroll software will do this, either using your own or your payroll provider. There are also some external sources springing up who will do it all for you or lead you through the steps.

Pension provider There are three that have been set up to supply pensions to the smallest workforce –HMRC’s ‘NEST’, Pension Now and People’s Pension. The standard pension providers generally aren’t interested in suppling small group pensions. There are choices of different types of pension schemes and you may find the services of an IFA is required here for guidance on the best plan for individual employees. Some of the external suppliers for AE have arrangements with the larger pension funds.

Payroll AE is all processed through the payroll that is currently submitted to HMRC monthly (or weekly). Payroll providers can be used as normal if you outsource the AE function completely, or can act as administrators.

There needs to be communication between the pension fund and the payroll provider as they need information from each other. If you currently use HMRC’s own free Tools, this will not help with any of the administration.

Then there are the costs Time. Additional payroll services and/or external auto-enrolment services. Potential consultancy services. Pension contributions.

Most of these will be ongoing and will increase your payroll costs. The tsunami will hit hardest here.

The Scottish Rate of Income Tax From 6th April 2016 the Scottish Rate of Income Tax comes into being. Discussions are under way, but no one knows yet what to expect. It will be based on residency of the taxpayer, not the employer and affects the top 10 pence of income tax. The Scottish government can increase it, decrease it, or leave it in line with the rest of the UK. What are the implications of each and how will this effect us as taxpayers in Scotland?

By Christa Cameron

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Casting light on murky waters CA Cameron ACA is presenting a series of three seminars this autumn.

Two will be covering the issues on auto-enrolment and offering external solution providers: October 1st with Ian Pilbeam of HR Dept.

November 25th with Elliott Smith of TAPassist Brian Kennedy of Sutherland Independent will be at both to give an update on how these changes may affect your own pension.

November 4th with popular tax writer and speaker, Carl Bayley, giving us the update on the Scottish tax so far and a look at the further devolution in Scottish taxes that will affect individuals and businesses.

Booking is online at: www.cacameron.co.uk

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asktheexpert

Ask the expert…

Popular mortgage questions answered How much can I borrow?

How much you are able to access in mortgage funds will depend on many different factors such as age, current debts, credit worthiness, how you derive your income and also which lender you or your mortgage advisor approaches. As a general rule you can expect to be able to borrow between 4 and 5 times your income or joint income if it’s a joint application. There is no exact science and we would recommend speaking with an independent professional mortgage advisor.

My credit score isn’t perfect, will this matter?

Lenders consult a credit reference agency to establish credit worthiness. This will depend on various factors, however, the greater your deposit the easier it will be to obtain funds.

If you have arrears or a default for example, then the chances of getting a mortgage at 90% are very slim, however if it were a 60% mortgage then it’s quite probable. Some lenders will ignore certain issues with mobile phone companies and smaller matters such as a single missed credit card payment.

To find out more about your own credit score you can visit the two main agencies www.experian.co.uk or www.equifax.co.uk where they will provide advice on how to improve your credit rating which could be the difference between securing a mortgage or not.

I don’t have a deposit but I do want to buy, can this be done?

At time of publication, 100% products are not available; therefore, a deposit would be required and can come from various sources.

For instance, a family gift or property developer incentives can be accepted with certain lenders. If it’s a new build you’re buying, there are some schemes which can help you onto the property ladder; such as Help- to-Buy or Shared Equity Options.

Would I qualify for a Buy -to-Let mortgage?

Many people are now looking towards a Buy- to-Let property for future investment.

We have many clients who want to move but actually decide to keep and rent out their current property rather than selling it. Whether you can secure a Buy-to-Let mortgage or not is dependent on the same credit checks as with a residential purchase.

Many lenders stipulate you must have a

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minimum income of £25K or £30K but there are some lenders who don’t have a minimum income requirement. How much you can borrow is mainly based on the rental figure which is confirmed by a surveyor.

Can I still get an Interest only mortgage?

You can still obtain an interest only mortgage but you will need to have a suitable repayment vehicle to pay back the capital at the end of the mortgage term.

Pure interest only is still available on Buy-toLet Mortgages.

What insurances should I consider?

It is mandatory that you have Buildings Insurance when you take a mortgage. No other type of protection is mandatory but we would always recommend a full analysis of each individual’s circumstances. Typical types of cover would include Life Insurance, Critical Illness, Income Protection, Family Protection and Contents Insurance. There are various other types of insurance and a protection review is always advisable.

How long will a mortgage take?

A mortgage will typically take between 4 to 8 weeks to be fully underwritten and offered.

This period can vary depending on the lender and the speed of which the applicant can provide required documentation.

Dominic Taddei Group Managing Director, Clear Mortgage Solutions - an award winning independent mortgage broker based in Scotland offering whole of market advice across the UK

I’m self employed, can I get a mortgage?

You can get a mortgage if you are self employed but will normally need at least 2 years trading figures to apply. In certain situations 1 year can suffice.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

FREEPHONE: 0800 652 6649 www.clearmortgagesolutions.co.uk

Quick Reference Guide & Jargon Buster Fixed rate = the lender will fix the initial interest rate for a period of usually 2,3 or 5 years, after the initial rate period ends your rate will go onto the lenders Standard Variable Rate (SVR) Tracker Mortgage = the lender will offer an initial rate period, usually 2 or 3 years and will track the bank of England base rate. After the initial rate period your mortgage will revert to the lenders SVR. Equity = usually the difference between what you owe on the mortgage and what the property is valued at.

Rental Yield = this is how much income you will generate over the costs involved with owning the investment property; this figure is usually a percentage.

Arrangement fees = These fees are the fees that the lender charges when

setting up a mortgage, a typical fee for a residential mortgage might £1,000.

Usually the fee is added to the loan and is included in the monthly payment, although you will be paying interest on the fee amount if you add it.

Offer Papers = this is the formal mortgage offer; client, broker and solicitor receive a copy, it’s important you check them.

LTV = Loan to Value SVR = Standard Variable Rate BTL = Buy-to-Let LTB = Let-to-Buy ERC = Early Repayment Charge, this fee is charged if you pay off a mortgage during an initial benefit period

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24 to 70 seat coaches available for all occasions, Including Wheelchair Accessible Coaches all fitted with seatbelts Live tracking of our coaches and service routes available via our App

Haddington – Roodlands Hospital – Drem – Gullane – Aberlady – Longniddry Port Seton Prestonpans – Wallyford – Whitecraig – Musselburgh Health Centre / Tesco - Queen Margaret University – Old Craighall – Millerhill – Shawfair – Edinburgh Royal Infirmary

www.prentice.info T. 01620 822620 E. mail@prentice.info Station Garage, Hospital Road, Haddington, East Lothian, EH41 3BH

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Company is on the right road Prentice Coaches is a company on the move, expanding its services and picking up plenty of plaudits both nationally and locally for the work that it does.

An award-winning coach hire company, the business is based in Haddington, East Lothian, just 20 minutes from Edinburgh, and runs a wide range of services using a fleet of eighteen vehicles.

Like all companies, it started small with just one vehicle, operating as a sole trader and run by the father of current managing director Ross Prentice.

Having been established in 1991, Prentice Coaches has been providing coach travel of the highest standard ever since and will next year celebrate its 25th anniversary.

Ross, who became MD of what is now a limited company in 2009, said: “I had been working as a mechanic and joined the business when it was set up by my father.

“He was well known in the transport world and we knew that his contacts would help bring us work.

“We only had the one vehicle at the time but we started to pick up contracts very quickly and today we have grown to eighteen vehicles.”

Today, the company’s services are used by everyone from corporate clients and tourists to the local community. They specialise in providing coach travel for day tours, educational trips, weddings and for corporate clients, although welcome enquiries for all types of travel. In addition, Prentice Coaches offers the only full size wheelchair accessible coach in the region.

What’s more, the company prizes its strong relations with the local community and endeavours to support local groups and events wherever they can.

Ross said: “We do have national contracts but our focus is really on local services and local people and, although we do advertise, most of our work comes to us through word of mouth. It is important to us that we have a good reputation and we work hard to preserve it.

“In addition, we have the best advertising possible with our bus driving round the roads of the area!”

One of the big success stories, and one which underlines the company’s commitment to the community, has been the recently-launched 111-122 services that connect East Lothian to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary (ERI), a tender issued by East Lothian Council.

Launched in May, the number of journeys has already increased to nine per day, including a new one which arrives at the ERI just before 9am and is laid on specifically for staff and patients with early appointments.

In addition, most journeys also service Queen Margaret University, the first time there has been a direct link from most of East Lothian to the campus.

The company says that the recent extensions to the route were prompted by rising passenger numbers and positive feedback from travellers, leading to the addition of another bus dedicated to the service.

Also responding to the needs of local people, Prentice Coaches merged most of the 122 sections of the route with some journeys on the 110 service, which will allow even more communities to link into the route. And by adjusting the Sunday timetable on the 110 route they provide a 111 journey, starting at Port Seton, to and from the Edinburgh Royal

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biginterview

Ross Prentice Managing Director Prentice Coaches pictured to right of Maggie Philbin

Infirmary, which will allow a reasonable time for people visiting loved ones on a Sunday afternoon.

Our focus is really on local services and local people. It is important to us that we have a good reputation and we work hard to preserve it. autumn2015

Ross said: “We knew that we could make the service to the hospital work, we just did not think that it would work so well and so quickly. We were hitting revenue targets from day two.

“Under the previous contract the service was carrying 2,600 people a month, now it’s up to 5,200. It has been amazingly successful.”

The quality of the company’s services has been continually recognised. In 2012, for example, the company enjoyed success in the RouteONE-sponsored Operator Excellence Awards, securing the Mediumsized Coach Operator of the Year’ category.

A year later, in October 2013, they won an award for the second year in a row by winning Small Fleet - Coach Operator of the Year.

Indeed, in an industry where consistency is so important, Prentice Coaches has been a shortlisted finalist in the Operator of the Year category at the awards every year since 2011, including 2014 when its app, App-Prentice, was also shortlisted for Innovation of the Year.

The company has also been shortlisted for Bus Operator of the Year this year with the results announced on September 30.

Ross said: “We did not really set out to win awards but gaining recognition does help to get our name known on the national stage.

Although our primary focus has always been on local contracts, we will not turn away national work.

“And although local people know what we do, it is good for them to see us earning recognition and helps them realise that something is happening here.”

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membersnews

Change to the law welcomed The long-awaited change to the law in Scotland regarding execution in counterpart came into force on 1 July by virtue of the Legal Writings (Counterparts and Delivery) (Scotland) Act 2015.

The Act aligns Scots law more closely with other jurisdictions including England and Wales by allowing Scots law documents to be executed in counterpart. Previously, the same document had to be signed by all parties.

Parties have often opted for alternative jurisdictions other than Scotland, to avoid the need either to (1) send the same document to every signatory or (2) hold a physical signing meeting with all signatories in attendance. The traditional Scottish approach has often been viewed as a barrier to business and the Act now allows a greater degree of flexibility in multi-party transactions. It will be particularly useful in cross-border transactions, as it facilitates a consistent approach across the board.

How can documents now be executed and delivered under Scots law?

Execution in counterpart is optional and Scots law documents can continue to be signed in the traditional way; however we anticipate that the new system will be widely adopted wherever appropriate.

A document is executed in counterpart if it is executed in two or more duplicate, interchangeable, parts and no part is subscribed by both or all parties. Once a document is executed in this way, the counterparts are to be treated as a single document.

Under the Act, traditional documents (distinct from electronic documents) can now be delivered by electronic means.

Where a traditional document is delivered by electronic means either the entire document or only a part of the document (ie the relevant signing page) can be delivered. The ability to satisfy delivery by transmitting a single signing page by e-mail is a significant advantage in relation to large documents.

However such a signing page must be capable of being identified as forming part of the complete document for example by the

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use of headers or footers. It is recommended that all parties agree to receipt of only part of the document in advance.

The Act allows the parties to a document executed in counterpart to nominate a person (nominee) to take delivery of one or more of the counterparts. In practice, it is anticipated that the nominee will be a solicitor of one of the parties. The nominee’s statutory duty is to hold the counterparts for the benefit of the parties only. This means that if the nominee is the solicitor for one of the parties the nominee cannot take instructions from its client that would conflict with this duty.

How will commercial transactions be affected?

The benefits of the Act seem clear. In particular, the execution of documents relating to commercial transactions (which often have a number of parties, in different locations) and the process of concluding such transactions will be simpler.

Although the Act aligns the execution and delivery of documents governed by Scots law with other jurisdictions, the effective date of Scots law documents will remain unchanged. Depending on how practice develops, it may become common for the effective date of a Scots law contract to be stated on the front page (as is seen in documents governed by the law of England and Wales). However this will not be the effective date of a Scots law document and would merely be an endorsement.

Real estate solicitors must remain alert to ensure that multiparty deeds submitted for registration meet with the Keeper’s requirements. Registers of Scotland (RoS) have confirmed that documents executed in accordance with the Act will be accepted for registration, provided that the standard criteria for registration are met. The terms of the Requirements of Writing (Scotland) Act 1995 still apply as regards the validity and self-proving nature of documents and so deeds should continue to be executed accordingly.

To clarify their requirements, RoS have indicated that deeds executed in counterpart will be acceptable in two different formats: (1) both or all of the counterparts in their entirety; or (2) one counterpart in its entirety, collated with all of the signing pages of the other counterpart(s). While deeds in either format are acceptable, RoS have indicated a preference for the second option.

The Act has been welcomed by many in the legal community in Scotland and we are interested to see how the practice of executing in counterpart develops.

By Jen Paton and Shona White, Solicitors at Shoosmiths

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marketingnews

Creativity for Success: Don’t be a Cow in the Rain!

By Christopher Lamotte Real Marketing Specialists

Use creativity to make your advertising stand out We’re exposed to more than 2,500 adverts a day. But, can you remember any from yesterday?

www.real-m.com

“The average man is a conformist, accepting miseries and disasters with the stoicism of a cow standing in the rain.”

Tim Ferriss, author of The 4-Hour Workweek Too many of us follow the crowd. We stick to the rules. We conform.

Yet, we know that creativity makes the difference between a mediocre business and a great one. The difference between success and failure.

A culture of creativity at home and work stimulates better problem solving, more innovation, greater happiness and competitive advantage.

“Creativity is the crucial variable in the process of turning knowledge into value” John Kao (Harvard Business School) Most of us work in highly competitive markets and there’s too much focus on price competition. The less developed world is catching up and it’s taking our jobs. We have to innovate to survive, thrive and stay ahead.

Most of us become immune to advertising messages because most don’t engage, inspire or interest us. This is why creativity is so important in your marketing.

How and in what channels you deliver your message is as important as the message itself, if you want to persuade and achieve cut-through.

A powerful creative idea makes your communications stand out and significantly increases response rates. It won’t just generate more business, it will save you money, increasing your return on investment and make your marketing budget, no matter how small, have the impact of a much bigger one.

Creativity should foster brand love Building brands is essential for success, even if they are local or niche brands. You must work with the hearts and minds of your customers. Emotions drive rational behaviour. Rational communication isn’t enough.

What’s your brand story?

How to be more creative Some of us don’t see ourselves as creative, but it’s a skill that can often be learnt. It may simply be down to self-perception.

Creative people see themselves as creative and give themselves the freedom to create.

Uncreative people don’t.

Creativity is about listening, looking and reading a lot on a particular subject to find the idea that inspires you to act and change.

Creativity needs to be fed with information and learning. Absorb, grow and be inspired.

Learn to harness the power of your right brain. Generate seed ideas. Leave them in your head for your right brain to process.

How often have you gone to sleep with a problem and woken with the solution?

Bounce your ideas off colleagues. Escape to the hills. Go for long walks with friends.

Create space. I often come back from a long weekend or a holiday full of new ideas.

Stress and fear are the enemies of creativity.

Taking breaks is healthy; unnecessary routines like the 9 to 5 straight jacket can breed mediocrity. Change the rules. Give your staff space and flexibility. Encourage initiative and collaboration.

One of the best sources of creativity is ‘mind-chatter’ that comes into your head when you’re doing something else.

Creativity is about surprise. It’s about thinking beyond the rules and not being constrained by boundaries.

One crazy idea can lead on to something amazing. So, keep your mind open.

However, you don’t have to come up with the next big thing. A lot of product development, for example, is based on iterative steps, small improvements to existing products or services.

Start by doing some personal brainstorming.

Contrary to popular opinion, many of the best ideas come from brainstorming on your own. Then run a group brainstorming session. You could consider using Edward de Bono’s Six Thinking Hats technique, which encourages everyone to think in the same direction at the same time.

However, don’t just generate ideas. Execute your best ideas to test them out. Often it’s action that really forces you to be innovative.

In the end, it’s all about taking action.

Think in the morning. Act in the noon.

Eat in the evening. Sleep in the night.

William Blake, poet

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Be creative with your pricing and people

What are the trends affecting your industry?

Some people say ‘follow your gut’ but that can be wrong. Next time you’re presented with a creative idea don’t make a quick decision because gut instincts can mislead.

Sleep on it.

Don’t just apply creative thinking to your products or marketing communications.

Apply creative thinking to all areas of your marketing, right across the marketing mix: to your products, pricing, distribution, communications, processes, people, positioning and budgets.

Surround yourself with positive people

Change in the environment is constant and businesses need to innovate to thrive and succeed. What are your competitors up to?

“Exact numbers aren’t needed to realize that we spend too much time with those who poison us with pessimism, sloth, and low

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expectations of themselves and the world. It is often the case that you have to fire certain friends or retire from particular social circles to have the life you want…”

Contact Christopher Lamotte at Real Marketing Specialists (01620 825751 or 07957 870071) if your business needs a FREE Real Marketing Audit or Real Web & SEO Audit.

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membersnews

Succession Planning The importance of succession planning Minimising uncertainty is an important benefit that an effective succession plan can bring a business. If people know what is going to happen, when and what role they’ll play, they will have motivation to keep pushing forward when the plan is implemented.

Every succession plan is unique, but successful ones all stem from collaboration and inclusivity. To understand what is best for your business, and not just best for the careers of the people within it, it is important to let staff have their say.

Here, SME expert Carrie Campbell, Partner with award-winning accountants Thomson Cooper, looks at key aspects of succession planning and what needs to be considered.

is the range of values for your business?

Although you may think you can make an educated guess, a professional valuation gives you more solid ground. Assess your position today and then work with us to see how you can make your business more valuable.

Minimising your tax We know from our experience that careful planning and the right advice is essential.

The Generation Game?

Indeed, creating and putting into practice appropriate strategies at each stage of your business life is essential if you are to obtain the maximum reward for taking the risks inherent in being in business. This is particularly important if you envisage selling your business within the next 10 years.

Every business owner should have a personal exit strategy. We sometimes refer to this as ‘starting with the end in mind’. Emerging trends in the SME sector indicate that family succession could become a thing of the past. So if family succession isn’t an option, what other avenues are open? Most often we find clients sell to co-owners, there’s a management buy-out or they sell on the open market.

What are the opportunities you have to reduce the tax due on the sale? One of the last steps in a strategy aimed at maximising the net return by minimising the capital gains tax (CGT) on sale is Entrepreneurs’ relief.

This can apply to the sale of a business and reduce the rate of tax paid to 10%. Let us help you maximise the potential from your ‘ultimate sale’.

Pre-sale strategy Maximising value Up-to-date management accounts and forecasts are essential. The value attributable to many businesses is driven by the historical profits and a rising trend in profitability should result in an increased valuation.

Need advice?

We have extensive experience in this area and can help you ‘change the guards’ in a way that minimises disruption while making sure the best people get put in the right positions. Call us on 0131 226 2233 to make an appointment. Your first consultation with us is free.

Increasing profitability is especially important in the years leading up to the sale. So, what

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Independent asset finance brokerage specialising in arranging competitive finance for new and used capital expenditure

Flexible Funding Solutions n Hire & Lease Purchase n Finance Lease n Sale & HP / Lease Back n Refinance of existing & currently owned assets n Vehicle balloon / residual refinance

New and Used Capital Expenditure

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Cars Commercial Vehicles Bus & Coaches Plant & Machinery Trailers IT & Office Equipment General Industry equipment

We look to assist:

Private individuals Sole Proprietors Partnerships Small, medium and large Limited companies n Suppliers & Vendors n n n n

T: 0131 660 4404 | M: 07769 354 216 | E: mark@assetfinancescotland.co.uk

www.assetfinancescotland.co.uk

newmembers

West Lothian ABC Events Bob Scott 01324 622228 info@abc-events.co.uk www.abc-events.co.uk Agila Solutions Billy Wardrope 0131 202 0321 info@agilasolutions.com www.agilasolutions.com Bespoketacles Laura Van Weegen 07771 743050 laura@bespoketacles.com Broxburn United Sports Club Leigh Lauder 01506 858057 BUSC@albynpark.org.uk www.busc.org.uk Calnex Solutions Ger Kirk 01506 671416 ger.kirk@calnexsol.com www.calnexsol.com E-Talent Nik Plevan 0845 3889243 www.etalentrecruitment.com EQHQ Darren Laurie 01506 433367 darren.mansion@googlemail.com www.eqhq.co.uk Food Options Alan Maxwell 01506 430252 enquiries@foodoptions.co.uk www.foodoptions.co.uk

HR Dept Ian Pilbeam 0131 297 7545 ian.pilbeam@hrdept.co.uk www.hrdept.co.uk/offices/scotland/ edinburgh-lothians Improve Trade Solutions Sharon Comrie 01236 756829 contact@improvetrade.solutions www.improvetrade.solutions Little Owl Nursery Elizabeth Allan admin@little-owls-nursery.com www.little-owls-nursery.com Mercure Hotel Craig Wilson 08448 159102 Craig.Wilson@jupiterhotels.co.uk www.mercurelivingston.co.uk

Practical Telecom Ltd David Hodge 01506 426100 david.hodge@btlocalbusiness.co.uk www.bt.com Purdie Worldwide Removals & Storage Ltd Neil Purdie 01506 652792 info@mattpurdie.co.uk www.mattpurdie.co.uk Rothera Group Anne Farr 01506 203325 afarr@rotheragroup.com www.rotheragroup.com Silver Cloud Telecom Chris Macari 0141 552 0000 info@silvercloudtelecom.co.uk www.silvercloudtelecom.co.uk

Motorhome Hire Scotland David Gill 01506 797425 info@motorhomehire-scotland.co.uk www.motorhomehire-scotland.co.uk

Spiral Health & Fitness Coaching Edvinas Stankaitis info@spiralfitness.co.uk www.spiralfitness.co.uk

Nelogix Leoni Nel 08451 631100 www.nelogix.co.uk

Tax SOS Lesley Potter 01506 853565 lesley_potter@hotmail.co.uk

North British Distillery Martin Boyers 01506 874406 www.northbritish.co.uk Optimalisys Ltd Norman Watson nfwatson@iee.org

Travel Leads Wayne Russell 0131 718 4000 www.traveleads.co.uk West Lothian Courier Marjorie Kerr wlothiancourier@s-un.co.uk www.dailyrecord.co.uk/all-about/westlothian

connect business

Welcoming all our new Members to Mid, East and West Lothian Chamber of Commerce

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newmembers

Midlothian and East Lothian A Pair of Trainers Clare Halliday 07908 469505 clare.apairoftrainers@gmail.com www.apairoftrainers.co.uk Training & Consultancy in customer service, excellence and complaint handling

Jane Thomson - Arbonne International Jane Thomson 07721 910982 janethomson@btinternet.com www.arbonne.com/pws/janethomson/ tabs/home.aspx Independent consultant for Airbonne International

Astrosat Steve Lee steve.lee@astrosat.biz www.astrosat.biz Development and delivery of ends-toends solutions where space powered technology can solve economic, humanitarian and business challenges

Nigel Duncan Media Nigel Duncan 0131 449 6682 nigeld@nigelduncanmedia.co.uk www.nigelduncanmedia.co.uk Practical PR Solutions

Clydesdale Bank Michael Mackie 0800 345 7365 michael.mackie@eu.nabgroup.com Bank

autumn2015

Peter Noble Glazing Co.Ltd Ross Noble 0131 660 2404 nobleross@aol.com www.nobleglazing.co.uk Specialist glazing services - commercial & domestic

Port of Leith Housing Association Eleanor Templeton 0131 553 8754 john.murray@polha.co.uk www.polha.co.uk Social landlord Solid Process Consultants Ltd Audrey Thorburn 07400 562101 solidprocess@gmail.com Business Consultancy - processing, health & safety, good practice Top Out Brewery LLP Moo (Philip) Birch 0131 440 0270 moo@topoutbrewery.com www.topoutbrewery.com Micro brewery, selling bottles and casks into trade

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MEMBER CLOSE-UP

Lynn Mann

Company Name Supernature Oils Name: Lynn Mann Position: Director Website: www.supernature.uk.com

What are the main activities of the business?

At Supernature oils my husband Chris and I produce multi award-winning cold pressed rapeseed oil and Infused oils on our tenanted family farm, 8 miles south of Edinburgh, near Gorebridge. We sell through Farmers Markets, Shows and Fairs, farm shops and delis, in Co-op and online. What started as an on-farm diversification that was to be a sideline is now a fast-growing full-time business where as well as ourselves we employ two other people.

Are you enjoying what you do everyday?

I absolutely love running the business day-to-day. No two days are ever the same, I love the diversity of the work involved, and I find myself in all sorts of places, meeting lots of fantastic, often like-minded people in various parts of the UK and the world!

As a business person, describe your three main qualities?

I would say that my three main qualities as a business person which I think help me are that I am quite a determined person, so will keep trying with things and persist even when things aren’t looking like they’ll go my way; I am also very open, to exploring possibilities, to meeting and engaging with people and to just trying things; lastly I have confidence, not so much in myself or my abilities but in our products and growing our business because I love our products and feel passionate and proud in promoting them.

What has been your most satisfying moment in business?

I have two things that are jointly the most satisfying moments in our business journey so far. They happened around the same time. We got our first supermarket contract, taking our Original oil into all 400 Scottish Co-op stores and then we got our White and Black Truffle oils listed in Harrods. Both of those felt like huge achievements for us.

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

I feel like the biggest challenge for me is just finding the time to explore all the opportunities that present

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themselves to me or which I think of, there just aren’t enough hours in the day, with the day-to -day running of the business and juggling my family and the farm too.

If you could turn the clock back, what would you have changed about your business career?

If I could turn back the clock I would have embarked on running my own business earlier, before the 22 other jobs I had!

What is your favourite way to unwind?

My favourite way to unwind is reading, not that I get the chance to indulge in much these days though.

If you could choose anyone, who would be your fantasy dinner party guests and why?

I think my fantasy dinner party with Supernature in mind would be with all the Dragon’s Den lot and Richard Branson, along with all my friends who have their own businesses too. Yes, that would be great fun!

What advice would you give to others who trying to be successful in business?

I would say the most important thing I’ve learned so far is not to be put off by rejection, it is often about timing rather than you or your product and if a door closes another one may open that leads to something even better.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

To be honest, I don’t even know where I see myself in a year never mind ten years! Supernature has been such an incredible journey and adventure so far that who knows where it’ll have taken us in ten years time. I think it’ll be good though and I think Supernature will be still going strong.

autumn2015

To Let

Modern office suites and pavilions on a superb motorway location

Available accommodation of 2,800 sq ft – 5,500 sq ft Muir Group welcomes latest tenants for Summer 2015, Regus who have leased 10,500 sq ft, and Invocas, who have leased 5,200 sq ft Visit: www.fairwaysoffices.co.uk

EH54 8AF, Junction 3 of M8

Deer Park Golf & Country Club

Heineken

Premier Inn M&S Simply Food

Deer Park Roundabout

Slip road to M8 Westbound

To Town Centre

High speed internet connection Dedicated upload and download bandwiths of 10 – 100mb available. Live within 24 hours.

Corporate Golf Membership included in all 2015 leases

Ryden 46 Castle Street Edinburgh EH2 3BN

McKenzie Pollock 69 Buchanan Street Glasgow G1 3HL

Tel: 0131 225 6612

Tel: 0141 314 3703

* For Terms and Conditions please contact the agents.

Peter I’Anson peter.ianson@ryden.co.uk

Vivienne Maclean vmaclean@mckenziepollock.co.uk

Iain Taylor iain.taylor@ryden.co.uk

SQA JOURNEYS FOR SCOTLAND’S FUTURE Scotland’s future is our young people – the workforce of tomorrow.

SQA qualifications prepare them for work, and give them the skills employers like you are looking for.

Find out where SQA Journeys can take your business.

www.sqa.org.uk/journeys

Business Development T: 0303 333 0330 E: mycentre@sqa.org.uk W: www.sqa.org.uk/journeys