Business Connect 1

connect business

M i d , E a s t a n d W e s t L o t h i a n C h a m b e r s o f C o mme r ce B u s i n e s s M a g a z i n e

There’s strength in numbers ...

Page 18 chamber news

features

business news

views

interviews

summer2013 ISSUE 1

Celebrating

40 years

Your local winter solution

It is our business to ensure your premises remain safe and open for trade during the winter period. It is our sole priority to assist you in fulfilling your obligation to provide a safe ice & snow free site for your staff and visitors.

It’s what we do!

Cappers Winter Maintenance is 100% self-sufficient.

We operate our own fleet of snow clearing and gritting equipment. Supplying complete peace of mind.

Call 01501 753999 or email enquiries@capperswinter.co.uk

www.capperswinter.co.uk Cappers Winter Maintenance. Sibbald Park, Blackridge, Bathgate, West Lothian EH48 3BN

in business 1973 - 2013

d Preventative gritting contract specialists d Snow clearing services, reactive or Cappers monitored d Manual gritting and snow clearing operatives d Winter events emergency standby d Weather forecasting d Complete winter risk management.

Site assessments and reporting d Salt supplies

ARE YOU PREPARED?

01501 753999

contents

connect business

05

Exciting new Initiative for young deaf adults at Donaldson’s

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.wlchamber.com For West Lothian Chamber of Commerce Tel: 01506 412909 email: brenda.cumming@wlchamber.com West Lothian Chamber of Commerce Alba Centre, Alba Business Park Rosebank, Livingston EH54 7EG www.wlchamber.com

08

04

Helping Scottish businesses recruit skilled students and graduates

Mentoring: I think I know what that is?

Er‌ What is it?

Chief Executive: George Archibald Chief Executive: Linda Scott

22

PRODUCTION & DESIGN Distinctive Publishing, 6th Floor, Aidan House, Sunderland Road, Gateshead NE8 3HU Tel: 0845 884 2384 www.distinctivepublishing.co.uk ADVERTISING Distinctive Publishing, 6th Floor, Aidan House, Sunderland Road, Gateshead NE8 3HU Tel: 0845 884 2343 email: john.neilson@distinctivegroup.co.uk 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.

connect business

AC;;3@2013 7AAC3 12

MID, EAST AND WEST LOTHIAN CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Star spotting at the Members’ Golf Day Out

18

24

There’s strength in numbers ...

Contents Chamber News Chamber News Chamber News Chamber Mentoring Business News Chamber News Ask the expert

Keeping a national treasure alive

03 04 05 06 08 10 12 15

Chamber News Cover feature Chamber News Chamber Events Big Interview New Members Chamber News Members Close Up

16|17 18|19 21 22|23 24|25 30|31 33 34

There’s strength in numbers ...

Page 18 chamber news

features

business news

views

interviews

FRONT COVER IMAGE - Studio montage MARKETING

summer2013

businessconnect

3

chambernews

Helping Scottish businesses recruit skilled students and graduates Bright Green Business, working in partnership with Midlothian and East Lothian Chamber, of Commerce, is a division of Midlothian-based The Business Partnership.

It has been delivering projects with clients across Scotland for more than ten years.

With a focus on helping businesses grow, develop and become environmentally aware, the company has three specialist areas where they can help your business:

Bright Green Placements For more than 14 years, the Bright Green Business team have been working with companies across Scotland who have a project they want to move forward but maybe don’t have the time or in-house resources to do so.

n Promote your environmental achievements

Its Environmental Placement Programme and Step Programmes can give your business access some of Scotland’s brightest, most talented and knowledgeable students and graduates who can help your business progress.

n Share good news stories

The team contract with both the candidate and your business for the duration of the project (8-24 weeks) and the process is easy, low risk and cost effective.

n Meet likeminded businesses

Projects can be environmentally-focused through the Environmental Placement Programme or can be in any other areas, including IT/Software; Marketing; Business Development and Engineering through the Step programmes.

Bright Green Business Network The Network is a membership organisation for businesses across Scotland who are

4

dedicated to improving their environmental achievements and communicating them effectively. As a member of the Network you can:

businessconnect

n Find out about changes in environmental legislation n Get our monthly newsletter and legislative updates

Green Ticks The New Green Ticks Scheme is aimed at Scottish Businesses who want to gain accreditation for their environmental achievements at any level. So if your business is keen to have an audited Environmental Management System but you are not ready for something like ISO 14001, the scheme can help you.

Green Ticks is a United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) accredited Environmental Management System (EMS) which has been designed to offer

businesses an easy way to register against the requirements of BS 8555:2003.

Green Ticks will help your businesses compete on a more equal ground with other organistations for new business / tenders and is a more cost effective and tailored option than ISO 14001. Also, each business who gains Green Ticks accreditation will be detailed on our website: www.greenticks.org. uk and given a certificate and logos to use as marketing tools.

The first clients have just gone through Green Ticks Auditing and all passed and are the first businesses in the country to have this accreditation and start using the Ticks to effectively bring in new business.

The overall aim is to help enable your business to grow by bringing in new skills, accessing talent, encouraging your environmental achievements and giving you access to support and advise to enable your business’ success.

For more information, please contact louise@thebusinesspartnership.org.uk or call 0131 603 5040.

More information on all projects can be found at www.brightgreenbusiness.org.uk

summer2013

chambernews

Exciting new Initiative for young deaf adults at Donaldson’s

How flexible training works Pentcaitland-based Graph Engineering accessed training funding from Skills Development Scotland (SDS) and has recently won contracts in Scotland, England and Europe.

Proprietor George Auld believes the Flexible Training Opportunities funding helped “open the door” to new work for the small company, which works primarily in the whisky and grain storage sector.

Earlier this year, George and four employees completed the Construction Plant Competence Scheme, which is the certification which covers regulations and requirements and applies common standards for all plant operators.

“It is what people are looking for in the industry now and having the skills card for everyone means that we can go on to any site and they know we have all the necessary knowledge to work safely and well there,” said George.

SDS’s Flexible Training Opportunities funding meant Graph Engineering received £500 towards each of their employees training costs. This allowed George to complete the workforce training earlier than he had originally planned.

“We would definitely have done the training, but l feel getting the funding meant we were able to do it sooner and get everyone their skills card at the one time,” he said.

George believes that it has helped them win new business - including their next project for a pharmaceutical sector company in Portugal – and he encouraged other employers to find out more.

“It was relatively easy to apply for and we got a great deal of help and advice from the training company who deal with this kind of thing all the time. I found that useful because, as a small company, I have to deal with all the paperwork as well as the actual day to day work on sites,” he said.

summer2013

The Donaldson Trust is extending its services into providing employability and training programmes for young adults who are deaf, or have significant communication difficulties.

inspire members of the Chambers to consider working in partnership with Donaldson’s Future Focus Employability Project to provide much needed work experience places to these young adults.

Working through the well established Transition project run by Donaldson’s School, it became obvious that there was a huge unmet need in continuing to support young adults with such hidden and isolating disabilities into further education, open or sheltered employment and into the community long after they had left education.

“ In return, we can help your company to become more deaf aware, and indeed, help your organisation to become DDA compliant in this area through another of our projects, called ‘I’ve Signed up to Donaldson’s’. We also offer both introductory and advanced accredited courses in BSL and Lipreading.’

The Donaldson’s Future Focus Employability Project will develop a range of Social Enterprises which will provide meaningful work experiences, continually supporting the young people, many in their own first language (British Sign Language), to develop their literacy, numeracy, and IT skills, and transfer these into the workplace.

For further information, please contact 01506 841470 or futurefocus@donaldsons.org.uk You can also contact the organisers on 01506 841900 or info@donaldsons.org.uk

Future Focus will also help the trainees to find permanent employment, with Project staff continuing to provide on-going and longer term support to both the young people and to the prospective employers.

Future Focus is now recruiting young adults to the project, which offers tailored part time or full time day training places to young people from all over Scotland, with encouragement and practical support being available to help school leavers and/ or older adults to access a range of opportunities to promote further learning.

n Young trainees the Future Focus Employability Project gain work experience at Donaldson’s Celebri-tee Golf event held at Ratho Golf Club’

Janice MacNeill, Principal at Donaldson’s, said: “We hope that this project might

Flexible Training Opportunities gives Scottish businesses with up to 100 employees the opportunity to apply for up to £5,000 towards training costs. Funding is available for up to ten employees per business and the money is not a loan, so the employer doesn’t have to pay it back. The types of training which can be funded include: Qualifications - including individual units, Masterclasses, learning based on National Occupational Standards, industry recognised qualifications, supervisory and management training, workshops, taster sessions.

Further information on Flexible Training Opportunities and other types of employer support is available on SDS’s Our Skills Force website www.ourskillsforce.co.uk.

These include the range of programmes

and financial assistance which is available to employers to help them plan and recruit a skilled workforce. There is access to learning and training resources designed to help companies develop the talent and skills of their employees. Information is also available from SDS Employer Helpline on 0808 783 6000.

Local employers can benefit from more direct support advice from the recently formed SDS employer services team. SDS’s Employer Engagement Adviser Pam Ralston works in partnership with local and regional stakeholders to ensure businesses have access to all public support available at a local level. Pam can be contacted on 01896 662 461 or by emailing pam.ralston@sds.co.uk

businessconnect

5

businessnews

n Dalkeith has many fine

buildings, including this one, Dalkeith Palace

Dalkeith THI and CARS now reaching its final stage The Dalkeith Townscape Heritage Initiative (THI) and Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme (CARS) has been operating in the centre of Dalkeith for the past four years and has achieved a great deal.

The scheme is a partnership between the Heritage Lottery Fund, Historic Scotland, Midlothian Council and Dalkeith Business Renewal. The CARS element of the scheme funded by Historic Scotland came to an end in March 2013, the THI which is the Heritage Lottery funded part has another year to run.

The main objective of the scheme is to regenerate the historic core of Dalkeith by awarding grants for: • Historic building restoration and repair • Grants for the High Street public realm enhancement scheme • The development of a training plan

6

businessconnect

• Wider education and community engagement initiatives n Historic building restoration and repair.

26 buildings have been repaired and restored in the centre of Dalkeith. 4 of these were priority projects, important historic buildings that were in a derelict or poor state of repair • The Former Cross Keys hotel • The Tolbooth • 1-3 Musselburgh Road • 1-3 High Street A number of historic stone tenement buildings in the High Street have been restored together with a number of shop front improvements. n Enhancement of the High Street and Closes. The High Street has been improved by widening footpaths and repaving in yorkstone stone, resurfacing the highway, providing new service lay-by and parking areas in granite setts and a traffic calming raised table pedestrian crossing in granite setts. The Closes: Wilson’s Elliot’s and Miller’s Close have been improved with new paving, lighting and improvements to adjacent buildings. New street furniture i.e. stainless steel bollards, litter bins and seats have been provided.

n The Training Plan: The aim of the training plan has been to give contractors, building professionals, apprentices, students and home owners the opportunity to attend free courses on traditional building construction.

The plan has been delivered with Edinburgh College. Twenty one people attended the first set of courses in September 2011 and then 27 in September 2012. Twelve children from St David’s High School, Dalkeith have attended the schools heritage skills awareness course and 9 trainees have undergone the Natural Progressive Award in stone masonry. A further set of courses will be delivered this September. n Education and Awareness Raising: The wider community engagement programme has lead to the delivery of a number of projects with Dalkeith History Society, Dalkeith Youth Forum, Dalkeith Community Council, Midlothian Training Services, businesses and traders in the town and Melville Housing Association.

The development of the Dalkeith Heritage Trail came out of the above partnership work and working with Susan Grant ,an Artist in Residence to develop story and historic buildings plaques which have been erected around the town centre as part of the trail.

summer2013

advertorial

Is your management team a really high performing team?

Do they really focus on the handful of things that will have the greatest impact now on the success of your business?

n

2 of 11 would know what position to play in and exactly what they were supposed to do

n

9 of 11 players would be competing against their own team members rather than the opponents!

Do they always use the same shared criteria for making decisions, which they know their colleagues will support?

Follow-up work may include coaching for individual managers or programmes to enhance employee engagement – or work that the organisation is perfectly capable of undertaking itself. It all depends on what the management team decide is the right thing to do and to prioritise for their organisation, now.

That is the key to facilitation; there are no “formulaic” solutions or “templates” to follow.

It really does fit the current circumstances of the organisation and the management team.

Do they have a common understanding of what makes the business successful and do they share this throughout the business?

I’m Roger Thomas and I invite you to spend a moment to consider typical organisations today:

Of 23,000 workers, managers and executives surveyed by Harris Interactive Poll: n

37% - have a clear understanding of what their organisation is trying to achieve and why

n

20% - are enthusiastic about and committed to their team’s and organisation’s goals; have a clear “line of sight” between their tasks and their team’s and organisation’s goals

n

17% - feel their organisation fosters open communication that is respectful of differing opinions and that results in new and better ideas

n

15% - feel their organisation fully enables them to execute key goals; really trusted the organisation they work for

n

n

and reviewed the quality of our business processes and ultimately identified the 5 most critical processes. We have subsequently formed continuous improvement teams to address issues with these most critical processes. The workshop enabled us to clarify and mutually agree what we should be focusing on as a management team and removed the bottleneck that faced us. I would strongly recommend this workshop to any management team.” - John Pattison, Director, Emerson Process Management

Running an organisation is a challenge –that’s what should be good about it!

For many years I have been helping management teams to address and overcome these sorts of constraints within their organisations, and become high performing teams. My approach is to work with management teams initially in a workshop, facilitating them to identify the factors that are critical to success and to commit to the actions that will have the biggest return now in achieving that success.

We all relish a challenge – if we can see that success is achievable, and then we find it really fulfilling. That’s what I help managers to do.

13% - have high trust, highly cooperative working relationships with other people, groups or departments

I have facilitated some 50 such workshops in large and small businesses across many industries, in public and in charitable sectors, and (almost) always with sustainable improvements in the effectiveness of the management team and their organisation.

10% - feel their organisation holds people accountable for results.

“Roger asks really good questions” is my favourite testimonial! Here’s another:

I live in East Lothian, and work across Scotland and the rest of the UK.

“My management team and I were struggling to prioritise actions for the next 12 months.

On a colleague’s recommendation, I asked Roger to run a planning workshop for us. This 2 day, offsite exercise was very successful.

Roger took us through a structured process where we reminded ourselves of our remit, identified critical success factors, identified

Contact me for a no-obligation discussion about your business or your management team and the challenges you face. A chat costs nothing and may just turn out to be a valuable use of your time.

If a football team had the same percentage scores then only: n

4 of 11 players would know which goal is theirs

n

2 of 11 would care

summer2013

See http://andcoaching.com/rogerthomas for my background and experience.

Call me on 07776 152020 or at roger.thomas@andcoaching.com

businessconnect

7

chambermentoring

Mentoring: I think I know what that is? Er… What is it?

Although mentoring is something most of us talk about needing, it isn’t obvious what being a mentor means, precisely, or what the process of mentoring entails.

Is it the same as training? Coaching?

Advising? Hiring a consultant but free? Is being a mentor the same as being a good role model? Are these all labels for the same thing?

Peter Wilson, who has been a Mentor for 12 years gave his view on mentoring: “I have been mentored formally and informally for all my life; most of us have, we just perhaps did not recognise it as such, and I helped mentor numerous business people “The first point I would like to make is how much ‘I’ get out of business mentoring – I probably learn as much as the person I am helping. That’s one of the great things about mentoring the ability to expand while helping someone else. I have learned about new industries, different methods

8

businessconnect

of working and helped tackle business issues that I could not even have conceived existed until confronted by them.”

“Often the business, or business person looking to be mentored has a specific problem which is usually immediate, it dominates the thinking and energies of the Mentee and it requires addressing. The ability to solve a problem is based on numerous factors, skill, knowledge, experience and most business people are excellent problem solvers, especially within their own field of expertise. But if the problem is out-with the business person’s field of expertise that drives them to seek help. “ A Mentor is not offering a free consultation, nor are they there to provide free professional advice but a Mentor will share experience, knowledge and possibly a nudge in the right direction.

“Having stated that business people are experienced problem solvers and often approach mentoring as a way of addressing a problem, often what the business person wants out of the relationship is NOT a specific answer to that problem but guidance on how to address the problem.

“The Mentee wants to, and must be, the person that makes the decision on what to do. A Mentor must be a good listener

as often just talking through a problem, hearing it out loud, and presenting the options that they have already thought of, allows the Mentee to come to a decision about what to do.

“Mentors can help guide the decision making process of the Mentee and can add value by suggesting some scenario’s or options not previously considered.

Mentors are often asked ‘What would you do in this situation’? This can be tricky. The Mentors can address it by giving an honest answer on what they might do, followed by rationale for doing it and also pointing out the pit-falls of that decision and then make sure that the Mentee does NOT blindly do what they would do without being comfortable with the decision and making sure it is aligned with their thinking.

Mentors are careful about the bounds of advice given and also careful not to take the decision making process away from the Mentee.

“To use a clichéd parable – what you are trying to do is teach the Mentee to fish so that they can feed themselves, not catch the fish to feed the Mentee.”

Full information at www.businessmentoringscotland.co.uk or contact brenda.cumming@wlchamber.com

summer2013

Leading the way Leading the way Leading the way Leading the way to success. to success. to tosuccess. success.

Business Mentoring Business Mentoring Business Mentoring Business Mentoring Scotland Scotland Scotland Scotland

Enhance your leadership skills with objective, impartial support Enhance your leadership skills with objective, impartial support and encouragement from anwith experienced business person.

Enhance your leadership skills with objective, impartial support Enhance your leadership skills objective, impartial support Enhance your leadership skills with objective, impartial support and encouragement from an experienced business person. and encouragement from an experienced business person. and encouragement from an experienced business person. and encouragement from an experienced business person.

Choose Business Mentoring Scotland today on 0845 609 6622, and startBusiness benefitting from theScotland support today and advice that 609 it offers.

Choose Mentoring on 0845 6622, Choose Business Mentoring Scotland today 0845 609 6622, Choose Business Mentoring Scotland today onon 0845 609 6622, Choose Business Mentoring Scotland today on 0845 609 6622, and start benefitting from the support and advice that it offers. and start benefitting from the support and advice that it offers. and start benefitting from the support and advice that it offers. www.businessmentoringscotland.co.uk and start benefitting from the support and advice that it offers.

www.businessmentoringscotland.co.uk www.businessmentoringscotland.co.uk www.businessmentoringscotland.co.uk www.businessmentoringscotland.co.uk

Business Mentoring Scotland is a partnership between Scottish Enterprise and Scottish Chambers of Commerceand supported by the European Regional Development Fund

businessnews

Youth Employment Scotland Fund Midlothian Council has announced its success in its bid for the Youth Employment Scotland fund.

Midlothian Youth Job Contract (MYJC) will be delivered by Midlothian Training Services (MTS). This project is jointly funded by European Structural Funds and Scottish Government. In addition Midlothian Council, will support MYJC by staffing the project to ensure both Midlothian’s young people and Midlothian businesses get the support they need to grow.

This project is aimed at reducing high levels of unemployment within the 1624 year old age group.

MTS will deliver support to help this group gain and sustain employment by creating additional opportunities for Midlothian’s young people, particularly those who otherwise would not achieve a positive destination on leaving school, vocational training, college or university.

Our target is to assist 100 young people over the one year funding period.

The MYJC will support Midlothian businesses to provide employment opportunities for young people, aged 16-24, through recruitment incentive to the employers and collaboration with local delivery agencies, including Midlothian Council, SDS, DWP, and other Training providers as appropriate.

MTS will source job opportunities for the young person and act as an intermediary for employers by referring suitable candidates.

MYJC will signpost employers to appropriate training providers - such as MTS or SDS and act as the Mentor for the 26 weeks of the programme and provide ongoing support in the event of the job opportunity not being sustained.

Board members

Dalkeith and Distr ict Citizens Advic e Bureau is seeking motivated people new, experienced to join its Board and of Directors on a keen to welcome voluntary basis. new members wi It is particularly th experience of Ma nagement and Fin The Board meets ance. five or six times a year to discuss iss finance, staffing ue s such as service and funding. It is delivery, responsible for go and procedures, vernance and se whilst the day-totting policies day work issues Bureau Manager. are overseen by a full-time The Bureau is str ongly rooted in th e community it se making up more rves, with local vo than 70% of its cu lunteers rrent workforce.

It aims to help as many people as possible and curre from 10.00am on ntly operates a dr a Monday, Tuesda op-in service y, Wednesday an appointments av d Thursday morn ailable on specific ing, with afternoons. In ad service, it offers dition to the gene a specialist mone ral advice y advice service service, with clinic and a home visitin s held at various g and outreach locations in Midlo access the main thian for people office. who cannot For the year to 31 March 2012, its ad visers dealt with almost 18% comp 4,098 enquiries, ared to 2010-11. Th an increase of e enquiries dealt issues, with bene with involved 8,4 fits (40%) and de 49 different bt (3 4%) continuing to enquiry. The dema be the main areas nd for money ad of vice remained hig debts totalling £5 h, with 179 new de ,497,136, an avera bt cases and ge of £30,000 pe r client.

This is a challengin g time for Dalkeith and District Citize already working ns Advice Burea at capacity but ex u. It is pects to see an inc a result of welfare rease in demand reforms and need for services as s loc to help meet the al people with tim challenge. e to spare who are willing If you are intereste d in a new and rew arding vocation, information, pleas or would like any e contact the Bu more reau Chair, Peter porrsteven@yaho Steven at o.co.uk There are also va cancies for direc tors at Penicuik Cit Sue Peart at suep izens Advice Burea eart@penicuikca u, contact b.casonline.org.uk

For information on MYJC please contact Marina Miller, MTS Coordinator, on 0131 270 5722

10

businessconnect

summer2013

advertorial

Qualifications work for Scotland We are fortunate in Scotland to have recognised that economic success is not simply about developing a highly educated workforce.

Achieving sustainable growth will only be possible by making academic and vocational achievements relevant to employers, ensuring the skills and knowledge learners develop can be applied successfully in the workplace.

Alasdair MacRae, Head of Business Development at the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA), talks about the importance of qualifications and how a qualified and skilled workforce can benefit employers and the economy.

Alasdair explains: “Employers know SQA from their experience with our annual school exams either from having gone through the process themselves or knowing someone who has. While we take our statutory duty to schools very seriously, our ambitions go beyond the classroom”.

Do we need qualifications?

As Scotland’s national awarding and accreditation body, SQA has developed robust,

summer2013

internationally recognised qualifications which meet employers’ expectations.

Alasdair continued: “Our qualifications are essential tools; validating learning for individuals and employers providing a record of progression for individuals as they progress through their careers, allowing them to build on prior learning.

Our qualifications reflect the appropriate level of learning required to complete them, capturing all aspects of the skills the learner has developed. Yet they are 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 high enough quality and standard to ensure they remain trusted over time.

Good for business Alasdair says businesses benefit from a qualified workforce, “Any business is only as good as its people. If staff are trained and qualified then they tend to be motivated and more productive. Many employers notice benefits, including improved bottom-line performance almost as soon as their people start working towards a qualification.

out through to Professional Development Awards for those seeking to advance their career at a senior level.

Working together Alasdair explains: “We work extensively with Scotland’s network of further education colleges and training providers, who offer our qualifications across the country.

However, if employers are interested in offering SQA qualifications to their staff but would prefer to keep their training in-house, we can work with them to become SQA centres in their own right, delivering our qualifications directly to their employees.

“We are closely aligned to industry representatives and regulators, sector skills councils, the Scottish Training Federation, Skills Development Scotland and the Scottish Council for Development and Industry to ensure that our qualifications meet industry expectations.

Alasdair concluded: “SQA is ambitious for Scotland, determined to play a full part in ensuring our people and the economy benefit from a qualifications system that meets the country’s needs now and in the future”.

“There are SQA qualifications suited to everyone in your workplace, from Scottish Vocational Qualifications (SVQs) and Modern Apprenticeships for those starting

businessconnect

11

businessnews

Business Gateway support means new premises for Armadilla An award winningcompany in Rosewell, which produces luxury outdoor accommodation, is just one of the local companies supported by Business Gateway.

With Business Gateway’s help, the company has secured a £130,000 Regional Selective Assistance grant from Scottish Enterprise and £10,000 Financial Readiness Support Grant, also from Scottish Enterprise.

Archie Hunter and his son Ross have designed a unique product called the Armadilla, which they now manufacture from a workshop beside Archie’s home.

Clad in larch and resembling an upturned boat, the Armadilla is available in various sizes for use as a garden room, office or extra space.

Councillor Jim Bryant, cabinet member with responsibility for economic development at Midlothian Council [pictured with the Hunters], said: “This company is just the kind of firm Business Gateway is here to help.

It’s producing a very high-spec, welldesigned product for a well-researched market.

The firm has been going now for around three years and is doing well. However thanks to Business Gateway’s support to help the company grow faster, Archie and Ross have been able to secure this grant which will mean they can employ 18 full-time staff and move to better premises.

This money will make a huge difference to their future and we’d encourage other local firms to get in touch so hopefully we can help them too.�

:HÂśUH EULQJLQJ RXU DGYLVRUV WR \RX WR PDNH LW HDVLHU IRU \RX WR DFFHVV KLJK TXDOLW\ VXSSRUW )LQG %XVLQHVV *DWHZD\ DW WKH IROORZLQJ ORFDWLRQV WKURXJKRXW 0LGORWKLDQ

Start Up Advice sessions held at: Monday McSence Conference Centre 6\FDPRUH 5RDG 0D\ÂżHOG 'DONHLWK (+ 7$ 7XHVGD\ The Wallace Building 5RVOLQ %LR&HQWUH 5RVOLQ (+ 33 :HGQHVGD\ The Crystal Centre (DVWÂżHOG ,QGXVWULDO (VWDWH 3HQLFXLN (+ +)ULGD\ )DLUÂżHOG +RXVH /RWKLDQ 5RDG 'DONHLWK (+ =1

)DLUÂżHOG +RXVH /RWKLDQ 5RDG 'DONHLWK (+ =1 +LJK *URZWK DGYLFH LV RIWHQ GHOLYHUHG DW WKH SUHPLVHV RI RXU FXVWRPHUV ,WÂśV QRZ HYHQ HDVLHU WR JHW DQ DSSRLQWPHQW ZLWK RXU WHDP %\ PDNLQJ WKDW DSSRLQWPHQW \RX DUH WDNLQJ WKH ÂżUVW VWHS WR VHFXULQJ D EHWWHU IXWXUH IRU \RXU EXVLQHVV 3OHDVH FDOO 0131 271 3377 WR ERRN DQ DSSRLQWPHQW RU FRQWDFW XV YLD HPDLO EJ#PLGORWKLDQ JRY XN ZZZ IDFHERRN FRP %*0LGORWKLDQ ZZZ WZLWWHU FRP %*0LGORWKLDQ

0845 609 6611

0845 609 6611 www.bgateway.com 0845 609 6611

+LJK *URZWK DQG 1HZ (QWHUSULVH $OORZDQFH DGYLVRUV DUH EDVHG DW

)RU PRUH LQIRUPDWLRQ YLVLW ZZZ EJDWHZD\ FRP

www.bgateway.com 0845 609 6611

www.bgateway.com

www.bgateway.com

Business Gateway services are delivered by Local Authorities, Scottish Enterprise and Scottish Government with the support of associated partner organisations.

Business Gateway services are delivered by Local Authorities, Scottish Enterprise and Scottish Government with the support of associated partner organisations.

Maximum call charge from BT landline is 3p a minute.

Maximum call charge from BT landline is 3p a minute.

0845 609 6611

Business Gateway services areofdelivered by partner Local Authorities, Scottish Enterprise and Scottish Government with the support of associated partner organisations.

Business Gateway services are delivered by Local Authorities, Scottish Enterprise and Scottish Government with the support associated organisations.

Maximum call charge from BT landline is 3p a minute.

Maximum call charge from BT landline is 3p a minute.

www.bgateway.com

12

businessconnect

summer2013

Business Gateway services are delivered by Local Authorities, Scottish Enterprise and Scottish Government with the support of associated partner organisations.

Maximum call charge from BT landline is 3p a minute.

e checked all details carefully and this advert is approved to print AFTER pleting the attached MINOR alterations.

erstand that once approved, D-Tech cannot be held responsible for ANY errors not cted or notified, I understand the proof copy provided is for content checking only and des ONLY an approximate guide to colour

Print Name

Date

orrect – Correct and REPROOF

e checked all details and have noted the attached alterations / enclosed new file. mit another proof after completing these changes / using new file supplied.

Bee Bee’s Flowers

Print Name

Bespoke Creations for all occasions including:

Date

n Birthdays

has been taken in n theWeddings preparation and creation of artwork, DTech cannot be held responsible for any mistakes or caused, after artwork has been checked and approval for printing given. Advertisers supplying artwork files: as we er how this artwork created such files are supplied at the Advertiser’s own risk – DTech cannot be held n was Parties nt quality when sub-standard files are supplied. n In Sympathy for content checking only and are NOT colour accurate. Pantone colour matches cannot be achieved using the full cess. and any other events or special days in your calendar.

Ask Dorothy

Proof Copy of Advert

www.beebeesflowers.co.uk

Q

Hi Dorothy I see that you specialise in reducing and resolving workplace conflict why is that?

A

Because conflict costs workplaces a minimum of 1 day per person, per month, per year, that’s a significant impact.

For more information contact

07824 887 990 or email breneast@hotmail.co.uk

Q That’s a lot of time lost.

A

It is indeed, research also shows that only 31% of managers think they manage conflict well.

Q So how can workplaces reduce conflict?

Are Are You you?

Struggling with your tax return? n Struggling with your tax return? n Looking for an accountant who will help n Looking for an accountant who will help you make more profit and pay less tax? you make more profit and pay less tax? n Starting out in business? n Starting out in business?

A

There are a number of techniques and ways of working which will support reducing conflict and I will cover some of these in the next issue.

However ensuring that the following is in place is a good start.

1. Keep an eye out for and deal with issues quickly and effectively

2. Use company policies and procedures at the right time

3. Take a collaborative approach in the workplace

4. Act as a role model

5. Act with integrity

n

We can help.

Barrie Scott & Co is a firm We can help.

n n Compliance Compliance Services Services

of Chartered Barrie Scott & Co isAccountants a firm of n Support Services Chartered Accountants and Registered and Registered Auditors with n Support Services Auditors offices inBathgate Falkirk, and officeswith in Falkirk, n Consultancy & Bathgate and St Andrews.

We audit, offer St Andrews.

We offer n Systems Consultancy Advice& audit, accounts, andtaxation taxation services accounts, and services together with business support and Systems Advice together with business support n Business Start-Up advisory services to a wide range of and advisory services clubs, to a owner managed businesses, Business Start-Up wide range of owner managed n n Taxation associations, charities and individuals. businesses, clubs, associations, n Taxation charities and individuals.

For more information contact Barrie Scott & Co on: T: 01506 656345 | F: 01506 634696 jillianso@barriescott.co.uk | www.barriescott.co.uk

Q So how can you help make a difference?

A

I can input proactively through workshops on a range of topics Including; the difficult conversation, managing conflict, investigation skills, managing disciplines and grievances, dignity at work etc. as well as reactive support in a number of ways including; workplace investigations, facilitating meetings, undertaking mediations, and providing coaching support.

If there is a workplace conflict related issue you would like Dorothy to assist you with or cover in a future issue just let her know on 07850 410980 or dorothymckinneyhr@gmail.com or via website www.dorothymckinneyhr.com

30 Mid Street, Bathgate, EH48 1PT

summer2013 T: 01324 637654 • F: 01324 635678 • 16-18 Weir Street • Falkirk FK1 1RA

businessconnect

13

The Independent Counsellor n Counselling for individual, couples and families. n Private & Professional Service

e

n No Waiting list n All enquiries welcome

eBusiness UK providing everything you need to be successful on the web

Optimising your site for relevant traffic and good Conversion Rates Website Optimisation (SEO) is the process of driving relevant traffic to your site.

Conversion Rate Optimization (CRO) is the practice of increasing the amount of online sales and leads on a website, without increasing the amount of web visitors.

For years the perceived wisdom was that once you have web traffic the rest would take care of itself.

Unfortunately this is not even close to being true. Very few site owners have spentany where near the time and devotion on conversion rate optimization (CRO) as they may have on SEO or other paid traffic methods.

Tel: 01501 228062 | Mob: 07875 042766 Email: fdigan@talk21.com Web: www.the-independent-counsellor.co.uk

Traffic is only one component of success. Getting people to your site is necessary but if 98% (based on an average e-commerce conversion rate of 2%) of those people are just getting there and not buying or signing up or completing whatever your conversion goal you have for your website is then you are missing out.

Image that you increase your conversion rate by 1%, this could represent an increase of 50% in sales.

SEO and CRO services available at very competitive prices starting at £10/keyword/month for SEO and CRO analysis at £250.00 Call Neil

01620 829529 | 07969 565946 neilfraser@ebusinessuk.com O N E S T O P, O N E P L A C E , O N E V I S I O N

AT EBUSINESS UK, WE MAKE DIGITAL HAPPEN

14

businessconnect

Offering a quality support service to families with children aged 0-10 years Services to Parents (Dads and Mums)/Carers/Grandparents include:

Peer, Parenting, Baby Massage and Healthy Living Support, Volunteering Opps, Baby Massage Dads Sat AM wiggle and giggle Grandparents & Toddlers, Counselling/ Therapeutic support/Play therapy.

You don’t have to be a family in need to get involved with MSS and chances are you already know someone who has had help or been involved with us.

We NEED You! – You can help MSS by: n n n n

Becoming a local hero and have a fundraiser for MSS. Getting your business/group to pick MSS as your charity of the year.

Make donations. It’s simple and really rewarding.

Got a spare day? Why not donate your time. We are always looking for new people to join our team of volunteers.

www.justgiving.com/midlothiansurestart

Facebook.com /MidSureStart

Call 0131 654 0489 | www.midlothiansurestart.org.uk summer2013

asktheexpert

BUSINESS FINANCE How can I reduce my tax bill?

If you know how well your business is performing and you have the funds and need new equipment, you may be eligible to make use of capital allowances. Additionally ensure that you have accounted for all your costs. You may also benefit from being a limited company.

I appear to be making a profit but I struggle with cash flow.

How is this?

Have you bought any assets lately or have you given customers credit and they have not all paid? It’s important to ensure all your credit customers are sent an invoice immediately and then chased up 14 days later for payment. A business once didn’t invoice a customer for six months and the bill came to over £12,000!

How can I reduce my costs?

Look at each expense and identify its value in your business. Assess the quality when buying. Do your suppliers increase their prices every year?

If so maybe look around for new quotes. Perhaps you could save a few pounds on energy, fuel, travel or on other expenditure that you have never questioned before.

My accountant does my accounts every year but I don’t understand where some of the figures have come from.

Doing my accounts at the end of the year is always so stressful. Can you suggest an easier way?

You are employing their services and their job is to help you. Ask them to explain.

Set aside a couple of hours a week to do your accounts.

It’s much easier to manage.

If you really don’t like doing your accounts then employ the services of a book-keeper for 1-2 days a month.

How can I increase sales?

Talk to your customers and fulfil their need. If you don’t, someone else will. Employ a marketing consultant for a few hours if you can afford it.

I started my business because I wanted to spend time with my family but I am working longer than before. How can I work more efficiently?

Ensure you remind yourself every day what you want your business to achieve; this will keep you focused. Set time aside for family and ensure you drop all tools when that time comes.

Taking time away from your business helps you to be more productive when you go back.

Additionally, use a timer to make you move on to the next task.

And remember, you will always have something in your in-tray.

Just deal with the important stuff. To help prioritise, identify if it will get you closer to your goal and what the consequences of not getting it done are.

I am not very good at selling myself at events. Surely everyone can see how good my product/ service is for them?

Not always. You need to tell them about you and how great your product/ service is so next time they are frustrated with other products on the market or the service they are receiving they will know where to find you.

I have cash in my bank so surely that tells me I am doing ok?

Quite possibly but have you paid all your supplier bills, your tax bill for the year or the VAT?

Helen Monaghan a Chartered Management Accountant & NLP Practitioner, is passionate about supporting local businesses.

See www.scottishbusinesscoach.co.uk for more information.

summer2013

businessconnect

15

chambernews

Mount Lothian Wind Farm could generate £millions in local benefits

Wind Prospect Developments Ltd has developed proposals for a wind farm at Mount Lothian in Midlothian on behalf of EDF Energy Renewables.

Since September 2011, the local community has been consulted by the renewable energy developers on the proposal, located approximately two kilometres east of the village of Howgate.

A planning application for the project was submitted to Midlothian Council in January this year but subsequently withdrawn to allow more time for the preparation and submission of supplementary information in support of the project. The planning application will be re-submitted with updated information this summer.

n Construction at Burnfoot Hill Wind Farm, Clackmannanshire.

Karen Thorburn, Wind Prospect Development Manager, said: “Wind farms can attract vocal opposition, but there is also a silent majority who support wind energy.

“A recent You Gov poll1 tells us that 71% of people in Scotland support the continuing development of wind power as part of a

16

businessconnect

n Wind Prospect Developments developed and constructed Longpark Wind Farm in the Scottish Borders. The site consists of 19 turbines with a total height above ground level of 100 and 110 metres to blade tip.

mix of renewable and conventional forms of electricity generation. It is important for those who support renewable energy and our proposal to have their say.

“A recent report by the UK Committee on Climate Change demonstrates it is economically sensible to invest in a portfolio of low carbon technologies including onshore wind to reduce the long-term impact on household energy bills of rising carbon prices and potentially high gas prices in the years ahead. As a proposal with the potential to deliver millions in economic and community benefits to Midlothian and to generate as much low carbon electricity is used by around 30% of Midlothian homes, we’re fully committed to the Mount Lothian Wind Farm proposal as previously proposed.

“We will re-submit our planning application as soon as the necessary supplementary information has been prepared. We encourage those in support of wind energy to lodge their support for our application via the Midlothian Council website following submission of the revised planning application this summer.”

The planning application is for a wind farm comprising nine wind turbines with a combined installed capacity of 20.7 megawatts. If approved, the wind farm could generate a broad range of benefits to the local community and regional economy.

Community benefit 1. A community benefit fund, provided by EDF Energy Renewables, will support local projects over the 25 year lifetime of the wind farm; 2. A commitment to support training and skills development at local schools and colleges with an additional community benefit fund; 3. A commitment from Penicuik Estate to reinvest a substantial proportion of the revenue generated by the wind farm into the repair and conservation of the Estate’s historic designed landscape and improved leisure facilities for the benefit of the many thousands of people who visit the Estate for leisure and recreation each year; 4. Upon commissioning of the wind farm, a donation to support enhancement of Penicuik’s historic environment.

Economic benefit 5. During the operational phase, the project will support six full-time equivalent jobs in the Lothians and a total of eight in Scotland2; 6. A total spend in the Lothians during the construction phase of around £6m3;

summer2013

chambernews

n The proposed Mount Lothian Wind Farm Site.

7. A spend of ÂŁ0.7m every year throughout the operational life of the wind farm4; 8. A commitment to use local contractors wherever possible in the construction of the wind farm.

Electricity generation / CO2 reduction The potential to: 9. Generate 49,000 megawatt hours (MWh) of electricity per year5, the equivalent energy as is used by 11,000 homes6– the equivalent to meeting the needs of 30% of households in Midlothian with low carbon electricity7; 10. Offset up to 22,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions per year8 and reduce reliance for electricity on costly and polluting fossil fuels.

Habitat enhancement 11. Protection and enhancement on-site of habitat for great crested newt;

12. Measures to protect and enhance two degraded lowland raised bogs in the vicinity of the project site.

Following the ecology surveys, landscape and visual input, and extensive public consultation during the pre-application consultation process, Wind Prospect Developments reduced the number of turbines proposed for the site from twelve to nine.

Individual turbines were also been relocated within the site to avoid adverse impacts on soil, peatland and wildlife and to reduce further any potential impacts on the nearest significant residential settlement at Howgate. Use of the site has been optimised by increasing the proposed installed capacity of each turbine to 2.3 megawatts while maintaining the maximum height at no more than 102 metres to blade tip. In addition, the proposed site entrance for the project has been relocated to minimise the impact on local residents.

n Longpark Wind Farm has delivered a range of community and environmental benefits to the local area in the vicinity of the development.

To support Mount Lothian Wind Farm, you can: Lodge your support following the resubmission of the planning application by writing to Midlothian Council planning department or searching for the application online at https://planning-applications. midlothian.gov.uk Write to Wind Prospect Developments Ltd, 13 Rutland Street, Edinburgh, EH1 2AE Email: mountlothian@windprospect.com Visit the project website: www.mountlothianwindfarm.co.uk

1: Scottish Renewables commissioned a YouGov survey in April 2012 and asked people in Scotland for their views on renewable energy.

For further information visit: http://yougov.co.uk/publicopinion/archive/4923/.

2: Source: Socio-economic assessment carried out by BiGGAR Economics for the Mount Lothian Wind Farm proposal.

3: Source: Socio-economic assessment carried out by BiGGAR Economics for the Mount Lothian Wind Farm proposal.

4: Source: Socio-economic assessment carried out by BiGGAR Economics for the Mount Lothian Wind Farm proposal.

5: Based on a capacity factor of 26.4%, which is the average output for UK onshore wind for the last five years, according to DECC, DUKES, Dec 2012.

6: Based on data from DECC Digest of United Kingdom Energy Statistics (Dukes), 2010.

7: According to GROS estimate 2012, the total number of households in Midlothian 35,668. The number of homes powered figure is provided for comparison purposes only and is based on a capacity factor of 26.4%, which is the average output for UK onshore wind for the last five years according to DECC, DUKES, Dec 2012.

8: Based on data from DECC Fuel Mix Disclosure Data Table, 2012.

summer2013

Write to your MP, MSP, Local Councillor or Community Councillor to let them know that you support the Mount Lothian proposal Join other wind energy supporters at www.embracemyplanet.com Spread the word! Encourage friends and family to support the wind farm

businessconnect

17

coverfeature

There’s strength in numbers ...

YOU! Yes - You! In business?

We are here to help you

encourage their employees to help out with our community initiatives and to take part in our events, seminars and training.

To strengthen our offering, we have identified a 4-point strategy to build on our existing services and to keep us moving forward: 1. To act as the catalyst for businesses to be part of the COMMUNITY by both GIVING and RECEIVING

Without businesses there would be no ‘Chambers of Commerce’. The reason West, Mid & East Lothian Chambers of Commerce exists is to serve you, the members..

As members you want to be able to do business with other members, you want opportunities to grow your business, you want help and advice on issues that arise in your business and as businesses you want to contribute, in a positive way both economically and socially.

The Lothians is a powerful place for business and the Chambers are proud of the fact that their members represent a wide cross section of the business community from the small individual entrepreneur to some of the largest employers in the region.

A Chamber can be the catalyst for your involvement in both the business and the wider community.

Based on the research we have undertaken on your behalf we have been looking forward at how we can help you over the coming years.

On your behalf, you want the Chamber to be the catalyst for your involvement in both the business and the wider community.

The services we provide on your behalf are available to all members of your organisation and we would ask businesses to actively

2. Being involved is seen as FUN, ENGAGING, INTERESTING and STIMULATING 3. Provide a range of BUSINESS SERVICES that support members’ needs 4. By a major source of BUSINESS EDUCATION in the region.

Below is a short commentary on how we are looking to address these strategic goals.

Support with Business Mentor Scheme One of our most popular community services has been our Mentoring Scheme where we put individuals in touch with another person for the sharing of knowledge, skills and experience within a relationship of mutual trust.

Quality Fun, engaging, interesting and stimulating The Chambers act as a platform for interaction between businesses through our various networking meetings, company showcase and other events. On your behalf what we are looking to do is extend the range of events available and increase the quality and interest, for example the

recent golf day at Muirfield. Each year the Chambers’ award ceremonies recognise and celebrate innovation, entrepreneurial skills and success within the business community.

Business Services One of the main reasons you join the Chamber is to help your business grow by meeting and doing business with other members and by accessing low cost services by using the Chamber’s collective strength.

A business has to be involving, it has to be fun, and it has to exercise your creative instincts.

Richard Branson

18

businessconnect

The Chambers have teamed up with the Scottish Chamber to help companies export with ‘FX Exchange’, a foreign exchange initiative for companies exporting abroad, and ‘Jumpstart’ an initiative to make sure innovative companies are maximising their use of R&D tax credits.

summer2013

coverfeature

Looking Forward Next year will be an exciting year for our Chamber members, in particular those who get actively involved in our programmes.

The Chamber is all about you, it is your Chamber and you can make it strong for your benefit and like all membership organisations it is your involvement, attendance and interaction that makes it strong.

Dr James Wallace, Group Managing Director - National Health & Safety Company Ltd and President of West Lothian Chamber of Commerce, said: ‘The West Lothian Chamber of Commerce has been absolutely vital to building our business. Not only do we have a network of businesses to which we can refer colleagues and other businesses, it has also referred others to us. The Chamber events are a great way to meet our business needs.

To find out more, check our websites www.wlchamber.com www.melcc.org.uk

summer2013

The farther backward you can look, the farther forward you can see.

Winston Churchill

businessconnect

19

Have you ever wanted to know more about who you are and your connections to the past?

Ancestral Consultants provide a range of high quality professional services - including research, family history books, family tree charts and house histories. Whether you would like us to undertake the research for you, or perhaps assist you in overcoming a ‘brick wall’ in your research - we can help. We have access to a wide range of resources at a variety of locations and can also track ancestors who may have emigrated.

A new series of our popular workshops and training courses begin in September. These will be available both locally and as brand new online courses covering a range of topics including helping you get started in your research, taking your research further and organising your research.

Our high quality, illustrated family history books make unique, personal birthday, wedding, christening and Christmas presents.

Like to know more?

Contact us at 01506 204 353, email info@ancestralconsultants.com www.ancestralconsultants.com

Promote, Communicate, Automate web design - e-commerce - mobile apps - email marketing

Can your customers HEAR you and are you LISTENING to them?

Online and mobile technologies enable you to connect and stay connected with new and existing customers.

Call us now to learn how.

01506 429 636 Room 108 Limited Alba Centre Alba Campus Livingston EH54 7EG www.room108.co.uk

20

businessconnect

summer2013

chambernews

n Pam Ralston

n Vicki MacLean

n Sam Kemp

Businesses to benefit from new team Employers in the Lothians area can now benefit from more direct support and advice to help them recruit and develop the skills they require in today’s competitive environment.

Operating on a regional basis across local authority areas, Skills Development Scotland (SDS) has introduced a new employer services team that will be on hand to offer advice as and when required.

The set-up of the new team follows the recent launch of Our Skillsforce, a comprehensive new employer web service which provides easy access to a range of public sector information and support services to help employers meet their future skills needs.

Employer Engagement Advisers, Pam Ralston and Sam Kemp, along with Relationship Account Executive Vicki MacLean will engage with local and regional stakeholders including Scottish

summer2013

Enterprise, Business Gateway, Councils and the local employability partnership. They will also work closely with organisations which represent businesses and employees, including the Federation of Small Businesses, Scottish Chambers of Commerce and the STUC. Pam covers East Lothian, Midlothian, whilst Sam covers West Lothian and the City of Edinburgh. Pam has worked with SDS for a number of years and has a wealth of advisory experience, initially as Enterprise in Education Adviser and latterly as a Skills Investment Adviser, supporting training providers to meet local employer demand with appropriate skills training and funding.

Sam covers the West Lothian area. He joined SDS from Investors in People (Scotland) and brings a wealth of experience in engaging with partners and stakeholders, as well as the wider business community.

Vicki covers the East Region of Scotland, stretching from Stirling, Perth and Angus in the north down through Edinburgh and the Lothians to the Borders in the south.

She was recently partnership manager with Investors in People (Scotland) and spent five years with national charity Project Scotland, working in partnership with public, private and third sector organisations.

Vicki said: “Our roles will be an exciting challenge, bringing together all the key partners at a local level in order to ensure that employers across the country are fully informed of the support available for workforce development.”

Gordon McGuiness, Head of Industry and Enterprise Networks at SDS, said: “Continuing to support employers remains a top priority and the restructure and expansion of the team demonstrates our ongoing commitment to support employers across the country.

“We are thrilled with the calibre of excellence in the team, who will bring together support from appropriate public sector bodies to help make sure the right support is available to employers, regardless of size or location.”

For further information on the support available from the team, please call the SDS Employer Helpline on 0800 783 6000 or visit www.ourskillsforce.co.uk

businessconnect

21

chamberevents

Star spotting at the Members’ Golf Day Out Mid, East & West Lothian Chambers of Commerce hosted a Members’ Golf Day Out on 17th July, the final practice day of the Open Championship, one of the world’s biggest sporting events.

The event started with a breakfast gathering at Gosford House, the imposing neo-classical mansion in Aberlady set in 5000 acres of combined coast and parkland, and one of the last great architectural commissions of the celebrated Scots architect, Robert Adam.

Rob Steadman, of Gosford House, welcomed members and briefly talked about the history of the House which was constructed for the seventh Earl of Wemys.

Craigielaw Golf Club General Manager Derek Scott was also in attendance to do a

22

businessconnect

brief introduction on Muirfield and share his take on being at the Open, including tips on where to spot the players. During breakfast, members also had the chance to view the famous Marble Hall of Gosford House with its prestigious collection of fine art.

The morning continued with a visit to Muirfield where spectators had the chance to be up close and personal to the world’s best golfers on their final practice day before the competition teed off.

Sergio Garcia, Adam Scott, Lee Westwood, Ian Poulter, Camilo Villegas, Mark Brown, Grant Forrest were some of the big names, we saw. Garcia played 18 holes, accompanied first by Marc Warren, Lloyd Saltman (knows as the Archerfield Ace) and Paul Lawrie, and afterward by Shane Lowry and Oliver Fisher.

Adam Scott showed his golfing talent at the 10th hole whilst Justin Rose started early playing a friendly nine-hole with Nick Faldo.

At the MasterCard Tent, Nick Faldo, recently appointed as the newest MasterCard golf ambassador did a brief interview and talked about his career and emotional return to Muirfield.

The rest of the day was pretty much a free time for Chamber members to wander around Muirfield. In addition to watching the players practising throughout the day, there were lots of facilities available at the Tented Village such as TimeSlice Bunker Experience in the Nikon pavilion, Test your golf skills at the HSBC Zone, NTT Data Pavilion giving visitors access to updated data from each hole on the course, Mercedes-Benz showcasing sleek AMG sports cars, MasterCard holders dedicated lounge as well as large selection of food and drink tents.

In the afternoon, members returned to Gosford House for more networking opportunities over a sumptuous BBQ and a chance to explore the stunning grounds and vast rooms and art collections of the mansion.

The day was rounded off by a chipping competition on the lawns at Gosford in which many chamber members took part.

summer2013

chamberevents

summer2013

businessconnect

23

biginterview

n Gosford House

Keeping a national treasure alive When Rob Steadman walked into Gosford House four years ago, he immediately realised that the stunning stately home represented a powerful business opportunity.

Four years later, the house in East Lothian is attracting increasing numbers of visitors within the incentive market, where employers send their key workers on enjoyable trips both as a reward for good service and as a form of team-bonding.

It’s the latest chapter in the story of the house, which is the family seat of the Charteris family and is situated near Longniddry.

The neoclassical house was built by the 7th Earl of Wemyss between 1790 and 1800 to plans by the architect Robert Adam, who died in 1792 before the house was completed.

The 8th Earl knocked down the wings, and his grandson, the 10th Earl, rebuilt them in 1891 to designs by the architect William Young. The south wing contains the marble hall.

However, like all stately homes, Gosford was always expensive to run and by 2008, when the previous earl died, the time had come for an injection of capital.

It came when the house passed to James Charteris, 13th Earl of Wemyss, who took over the family estate and title in December 2008 after his father died.

In October 2009 - The estate invited Rob Steadman to advise on developing a

24

businessconnect

commercial operation. Rob had built up extensive experience over numerous jobs in event management both in the private and public sector, including in professional rugby and immediately saw the potential.

“Our visitors like to enjoy traditional pasttimes such as the Highland Games that we stage and which make for good teambonding experiences or our gala dinners in what is a stunning house.

He said: “When I walked into the house and saw the marble hall, I thought ‘this will be good. No one else has one of these.’

“Everything we do is designed to get the right people to Gosford. It’s about helping the house survive. It’s about making sure that it has people in it. That’s the most important thing for us.”

“The death of the earl prompted the family to stand back and think what they were going to do with the house.

“We spent six months doing that and were able to get the house ready without any major refurbishment. We have been very targeted in our approach, It’s not about large numbers of people coming to visit, it is more specific than that. We‘re not a leisure product, we are specialised and our main market is the agents who organise the trips.”

The result was a venue that is on the itinerary of agents bringing parties to Scotland as part of the incentive market, either for visits to the house or gala dinners in the large dining room, which takes up to 100 diners, or receptions for 400 in the Marble Hall.

Another attraction is the chance to take part in large-scale activity days and specially organised Highland Games.

Rob said: “The core of our clients come from Europe but we have hosted them from the likes of America, Brazil and Asia as well.

“People like to come to Scotland and I already knew the main agents who include Gosford in their offers.

“We have seen a change in the market in recent years. Previously, a lot of companies in central Europe would head to North Africa but the troubles in the likes of Tunisia and Algeria has seen them look elsewhere and Scotland is seen as a safe option which is competitively priced.

No article on Gosford would be complete without mention of golf. Gosford has a long association with the game; James V of Scotland frequented Gosford in the early 16th Century to play the earlier versions of the Royal and Ancient sport.

The property was acquired by the seventh Earl because it was six miles closer to his beloved golfing grounds overlooking the Firth of Forth than his previous home at Amisfield.

In keeping with its long association with the game, the Estate possesses Four courses: the links course of Kilspindie which recently celebrated its 125th anniversary; the more challenging course at Longniddry, used for the final qualifying round of the 1987 Open; and the parkland course of Monktonhall, designed by the famous James Braid.

Craigielaw, now 12 years old, has produced a raft of talented young golfers, including the current Scottish amateur champion Grant Forrest who qualified for the Open.

Among those taking advantage of one of the courses recently was the Mid, East & West Lothian Chambers of Commerce, which came together to host a prestigious golfing event in conjunction with the Open Championship in Muirfield during mid-July.

Rob said: “Golf is important to the house.

Indeed, the house has been described as ‘the greatest folly to golf.‘ The game is why the house exists.”

summer2013

biginterview

Our visitors like to enjoy traditional past- times such as the Highland Games that we stage and which make for good team-bonding experiences or our gala dinners in what is a stunning house.

Rob Steadman

Manager Gosford House

summer2013

businessconnect

25

businessnews

Peace of mind – quality care Using a care or support service should be a positive experience.

People who rely on services need to be aware of their rights and should have a high expectation of the service they receive.

Allan-Ross Nursing & Homecare Ltd has served local communities in East Lothian for more than 15 years. Founders Maureen Allan and Barbara Bostock believe in making it possible for the person who requires a service to continue living safely, comfortably and as independently as possible in their own homes, with the peace of mind quality care and support can offer their families.

Maureen Allan said: “Because we are a family owned business we believe that our care is kinder and friendlier. Our dedicated team believe that everyone should receive the care, understanding and compassion that our own family would receive.

Our ethos has held true with the Care Inspectorate Grading’s awarded since 2009 of Very Good (5) and Excellent (6).”

Allan-Ross Nursing & Homecare ltd provide a wide range of services that are

individually tailored to a person’s needs, from flexible personal care, meal service, overnight assistance, respite services to participating in social activities and companionship. We also provide domestic help around the home.

Allan-Ross Nursing & Homecare Ltd is located at Dewar House, 1A Loch Road, Tranent, EH33 2JX. Call 01875 616 666 or visit www.allan-ross.co.uk for more information.

Kinder care. Friendlier faces.

Do you need care at home?

Allan-Ross Nursing & Homecare Ltd has been providing a range of care, nursing and support services in East Lothian since 1998 Nursing & Personal Care | 24 Hour Care | Outings & Companionship | Home-based Respite | Domestic Home Help | Learning Disability Support | Specialist care

01875 616666

contact@allan-ross.co.uk Dewar House, 1 Loch Road, Tranent, East Lothian, Scotland EH33 2JX

www.allan-ross-nursing-and-home-care.co.uk

26

businessconnect

summer2013

DM Property Consultants

Sales, Lettings & Rent Reviews of all types of Commercial & Industrial Property throughout City of Edinburgh, Lothians and Scottish Borders

T: 01620 880568 M: 07804 042379 E: dmbproperty@btconnect.com

David M Bell 7 Beanston Cottage, Beanston, Haddington EH41 3SB summer2013

businessconnect

27

advertorial

Torness Power Station celebrate 25th birthday

This year, Torness Power Station is celebrating its 25th birthday, a return to welcoming visitors to see low carbon nuclear power for themselves, and its economic clout in East Lothian.

Situated on the picturesque East Lothian coastline 30 miles south-east of Edinburgh is a huge, two-reactor nuclear power station, capable of generating enough electricity for two and a half million homes.

Station director, Paul Winkle, is well satisfied with the station’s safety record although never complacent: “With up to 700 people working here at any time, safety is our number one priority,” says the one-time mechanical engineer and Glasgow University graduate who took command of Torness four years ago.

When a member of staff injures themselves at work, and is absent from work for one day or more, this is referred to as a lost-time incident (LTI). It is more than 1650 days since such an injury occurred at Torness.

“Safety is always our number one priority at Torness and is very much part of our culture. If an office was to receive this accolade it would be a real achievement, but for an industrial site it is nothing short of remarkable.

“This has been achieved through rigorous health and safety training and high levels of nuclear professionalism. Our contractors are also to be congratulated for adhering to our company standards and expectations.

28

businessconnect

Reaching this milestone is another huge step towards our journey to achieving our ambition of zero harm.”

Apart from generating enough power for two and a half million homes, the station also contributes close to £80 million a year into the local economy and spends £30 million a year on the wage bill for 550 full-time staff and 180 contract workers who make it, after the county council, the second biggest employer in East Lothian. That’s not to mention the “very healthy contribution” it makes to owner EDF Energy’s balance sheet.

“At Torness, we are committed to investing in people, and we pride ourselves on providing world class training and developing skills that will last a lifetime. Torness currently has 33 recruits from Scotland in our four-year Advanced Nuclear Apprentice Scheme. “ Other local activities include staff delivering a range of initiatives to encourage young people to study science including sponsorship of Generation Science, the Edinburgh Science Festival, the Dunbar Science Festival and going into schools throughout the Lothian’s and the Borders with schemes like Go4Set and STEM ambassadors.

Winning the trust of East Lothian’s population is an ongoing exercise for the station that is keenly aware of the need for carefully nurtured public relations. There are many other links and initiatives that keep local lines of communication open.

Torness is very proud of the newly reopened visitor centre and hope it will inspire young people about science, technology and engineering.

“The country needs young people to develop an enthusiasm for science which might one day turn into a career here at Torness and that enthusiasm starts with experiences like this.”

“Since we announced our plans, we have had a steady stream of requests from local people keen to learn more about our station. This visitor centre will allow us to introduce people to our operation in a safe, informative and attractive environment and we expect many thousands of visitors through the doors.”

With the equivalent of a million tonnes of coal in a reactor at any one time, he says Torness power station is helping to bridge the energy gap and reduce our dependence on fossil fuels; so he urges a greater understanding of nuclear power within a diverse low carbon energy mix – which would also include wind.

Paul is positive about operational transparency about the energy mix and other issues. “We want to earn and maintain the public’s trust by being open and transparent within a two-way dialogue,” he says.

For visitor centre booking, call 01368 873 909 or contact tornessvisitorcentre@edf-energy.com

The company has regular contact with councils, social groups and emergency services, and the director is happily accountable to its LLC – Local Liaison Committee. Whatever the station is up to or experiencing – such as the incursion of storm-driven seaweed that shut it down for days last month – these contacts are immediately notified by email.

summer2013

EDF Energy

Exploring Electricity Our new visitor centre is now open at Torness power station Come and visit us Monday to Friday between 9am and 4pm Why not book a plant tour? See for yourself how a nuclear power station works. All plant tours require advanced booking and will also be available at the weekend, subject to availability and demand.

If you would like to book a tour or get more information, please contact us:

Telephone: 01368 873 909 Email: tornessvisitorcentre @edf-energy.com

newmembers

Midlothian and East Lothian

30

Allan-Ross Nursing & Homecare Ltd Maureen Allan 01875 616 666 maureen.allan@allan-ross.co.uk www.allan-ross.co.uk

Euro Business Solutions Ltd Alex Donaldson 01875 610 000 adonaldson@eurobs.co.uk www.eurobs.co.uk

Letham Limited Barbara Sharman 01620 820 055 stay@lethamhouse.com www.lethamhouse.com

Servoca Secure Solutions Guy Burdon 01506 537033 guy.burdon@servoca.com www.servoca.com

Asset Finance Mark Johnston 0131 660 4404 mark@assetfinancescotland.co.uk www.assetfinancescotland.co.uk

GH Event Catering Ltd Brian Galbraith 0131 273 5243 sales@gheventcatering.com www.gheventcatering.com

Melville Castle Suzette McGregor 0131 654 0088 generalmanager@melvillecastle.com www.melvillecastle.com

Skills & Development Scotland Pam Ralston 01896 662 461 pam.ralston@sds.co.uk www.skillsdevelopmentscotland.co.uk

Basically Tool Hire Colin Cassidy 0131 663 9563 colin.cassidy@btconnect.com www.basically-toolhire.co.uk

GMP Print Solutions Ltd Roger Parry 0131 629 0071 roger.parry@gmpprint.co.uk www.gmpprint.co.uk

Midlothian Sure Start Cheryl Brown 0131 654 0489 cheryleebrown@ midlothiansurestart.org.uk www.midlothiansurestart.org.uk

Bishop’s Move David Mills-Pearce 0131 556 6666 edinburgh@bishopmove.com www.bishopsmove.com

Henderson Wines David Henderson 0131 447 8580 info@hendersonwines.co.uk www.hendersonwines.co.uk

Carberry Tower Debby Phillips-Howie 0131 665 3135 Debbiep@clarenco.com www.clarenco.com

Icon Fabrications Mike Green 0131 654 9424 mike@icon-fab.com www.icon-fab.com

Cavaliere Restaurant Tony Crolla 0131 663 4492 tcrolla1@hotmail.com www.thecavaliere.co.uk

Interface Louise Arnold 0131 651 4792 louise@interface-online.org.uk www.interface-online.org.uk

Core Health Dr Rob Lawson 01620 842004 roblawson@core-health.com www.core-health.com

K.W. Peter & Co Ken Peter 0131 445 8608 ken@kwpeter.co.uk www.kwpeter.co.uk

Red Cherry Marketing Neil Campbell 0131 440 9018 neil@redcherrymarketing.co.uk www.redcherrymarketing.co.uk

Daily Poppins Cleaning Service Ltd Marissa Valdez 07456 627 725 ma.valdez@dailypoppins.com www.dailypoppins.co.uk

Kids Bee Happy Edinburgh South Claire Paterson 07508 310 535 clairep@kidsbeehappy.co.uk www.ed-south.kidsbeehappy.co.uk

Rosslyn Chapel Trust Ian Gardner 0131 440 6295 ian@rosslynchapel.com www.rosslynchapel.com

Dancing Light Gallery Helen Bell 01968 660 200 hmbell@dancinglightgallery.co.uk www.dancinglightgallery.co.uk

Laird & Dog Inn Adam Bolton 0131 663 9219 laird@maclay.co.uk www.lairdanddoginn.co.uk

SaBRE Colin Vooght 0141 945 6751 lo-employer@lo.rfca.mod.uk www.sabre.mod.uk

Visit Scotland Manuela Calchini 0845 859 1006 manuela.calchini@visitscotland.com www.visitscotland.org

Edinburgh Technopole Judith Sanderson 0131 445 8600 judith.sanderson@dtmz.com www.edinburghtechnopole.co.uk

LEBC Group Ltd Jim Wilson 0131 226 8300 jimwilson@lebc-group.com www.lebc-group.com

Scottish Business Coach Helen Monaghan 07789 260495 helen@scottishbusinesscoach.co.uk www.scottishbusinesscoach.co.uk

WOW A2Z Debbie Davis 0131 656 6827 wowa2z@wowa2z.com www.wowa2z.com

businessconnect

Plan It and Prosper LLP Allan Davidson 0131 654 1983 allan@planitandprosper.co.uk www.planitandprosper.co.uk Portfolio Oomph Julie Read 07815 810797 julie@portfolio-oomph.com www.portfolio-oomph.com Prentice Coaches Ross Prentice 01620 822620 ross@prentice.info www.prentice.info

Social Enterprise Alliance Midlothian David Henderson 0131 663 9471 Development@seamidlothian.co.uk www.seamidlothian.co.uk Speakout Noel Rocks 0131 440 9226 info@speakoutuk.com www.speakoutuk.com Sports Turf Services Peter Campbel 01506 844471 peter@sportsturfservices.com www.sportsturfservices.com St Andrew First Aids Paul McGarry 0141 332 4031 paulmcgarry@firstaid.org.uk www.firstaid.org.uk The Recession Buster Spencer Thomson 0779 563 0278 info@spencerthomson.com Towry Ross Cameron 0131 718 4919 ross.cameron@towry.com www.towry.com Utility Wise Rachel Scott 0191 425 4768 rachel.scott@utilitywise.com www.utilitywise.com

summer2013

newmembers

West Lothian Victim Support Scotland Angela Hay 01506 635050 www.victimsupportsco.org.uk

The Independent Counsellor Fiona Digan 07875 042766 www.independent-counseller.co.uk

Bonhoga Magic Pat Laing 07881 380134 www.bonhogamagic.com

Buck Up Speak Up Graeme Buck 07866 538311 www.buckupspeakup.co.uk

Rent Locally Terence Atkins 07588 352362 www.rentlocally.co.uk

PHS Datashred Alistair Fisher 01506 445490 www.shredding.info

ESL Services Bill Menzies 01506 412791 www.esl-services.co.uk

Allium Garden Services Jill Calder 01506 630682

Bluecygnet Tony Law 0131 622 6207 www.bluecygnet.co.uk

Frizzante Rose Training Experience Ltd Denise Cochrane 07912 747582 www.frizzanterose.co.uk Estate Planning Services (Scotland) Alasdair MacLeod 07788 848866 www.estateplanningservicesscotland.co.uk

Glenavon House Bed & Breakfast Sue Lindsay 01506 848115 www.glenavonhouse.com Manic Eye Derek Grierson 07906 275211 www.maniceye.com

Mr Bizweb Ltd William Ritchie 07429 851943 www.mrbizweb.com Jinja Ninja Productions Vincent Johnston 07949 377475 www.jinja-ninja.com

Unravel This James Boyd 07763 225827 www.unrravel-this.com

Strawberry Property Solutions Mary Macleod 01506 883284 www.strawberrypropertysolutions.com

SaBRE Lowlands Colin Vooght 0141 945 6751

Securitas Ltd Anne Paton 0131 335 9110 www.securitas.com

Bee Bee’s Floral Artistry Brenda Easton 07824 887990 www.beebeesflowers.co.uk

Creation Editor Ltd Sabine Klaus 07984 854002 www.creationeditor.co.uk

Capital Cartridges Douglas Pilkington 01506 636633 www.capitalcartridges.co.uk

Lareine Engineering Ltd Tom Bates 01501 731600 www.lareineengineering.com

Hush Hair and Beauty John Doolan 01506 441442 www.hushhairandbeauty.co.uk

Capital Vehicle Management Thomas Murphy 0131 202 6450 www.capitalvehicle.co.uk

Cappers Winter Maintenance Dougals Sibbald 01501 753999 www.capperswinter.co.uk

Barrie Scott & Co Jillian So 01506 656345 www.barriescott.co.uk

connect business

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

summer2013

businessconnect

31

Most advertising shouts out a message in the hope that someone’s interested. Direct marketing, on the other hand, is all about having a conversation with ]SYV GYWXSQIV -X´W QSVI TIVWSREP ;I XEVKIX WTIGM½G TISTPI [MXL WTIGM½G SJJIVW ;I YWI KVIEX GVIEXMZI XS break the ice. And we know what to say to get people to respond. Which is why it works. So the sooner you start talking to your customers, the sooner you can

stop shouting T H E L A S T WO R D I N D I R E C T M A R K E T I N G A N D R E S P O N S E A DV E RT I S I N G 8S ½RH SYX QSVI GEPP 7MQSR SR or visit redmcgregor.com

JOIN COSTCO TODAY! Costco Wholesale is a membership warehouse club, dedicated to bringing our members quality goods and services at the lowest possible prices.

Trade Membership*

The annual membership fee for Standard Trade Membership is ÂŁ20 (plus VAT), which includes a complimentary card for your spouse or domestic partner.

Individual Membership*

The annual membership fee for Standard Individual Membership is ÂŁ25 (plus VAT), which includes a complimentary card for your spouse or domestic partner.

Join in the warehouse or online: www.costco.co.uk

32

Costco Edinburgh Costkea Way Loanhead Edinburgh EH20 9BY

For further information, please contact the Marketing Team at Costco Edinburgh. Call 0131 440 7050.

T: 0131 440 7050 E: marketing107@costco.co.uk

*Membership Criteria applies. Accepted methods of payment: cash, debit card, cheque or American Express. Membership must be obtained before purchases can be made.

Central Membership: 01923 830 477 www.costco.co.uk

businessconnect

summer2013

chambernews

Interface - creating profitable partnerships across Scotland Interface, the knowledge connection for business, facilitates business and academic partnerships that encourage product development, resource sharing and knowledge exchange with the ultimate goal of driving business development and growth.

The Interface brokering service has supported businesses across Scotland, increasing turnover, productivity and profits and, according to a recent study, it is expected that within the next 3-5 years collaborations between businesses and academia will be worth £79.9 million annually to the Scottish economy.

Interface also provides funding opportunities through the Scottish Funding Council’s (SFC) Innovation Voucher Scheme, which supports businesses with their first academic collaboration.

Interface have supported hundreds of businesses of all sizes and sectors from all over the Scotland including You Can Cook

a social enterprise that celebrates food, people and culture.

You Can Cook organises cookery classes, demonstrations and workshops on nutrition and food related issues at workplaces across Scotland.

Its workplace workshops raise awareness about the effects that certain foods have on the metabolism.

You Can Cook approached Interface to see what academic support was available and were subsequently matched with Food Innovation @ Abertay (FIA) at the University of Abertay in Dundee.

Funded by the SFC Innovation Voucher Scheme, managed by Interface, You Can Cook and FIA were able to analyse the existing recipes making sure they met with current Scottish Government guidelines.

They created focus groups and product testers to ensure that the recipes were tasty as well as nutritious and they worked together to create nutritional information

and fact sheets for each recipe.

For more information on Interface visit www.interface-online.org.uk or to contact our team and arrange an appointment please call 0131 651 4791

Newbattle Abbey: discover Midlothian’s hidden, historic events venue Newbattle Abbey is one of Midlothian’s hidden, historic treasures, and was originally a medieval Cistercian monastery.

This beautiful ‘A’ listed stately home, set in 125 acres of stunning parkland, is a magnificent setting for conferences, meetings, team building, celebrations, weddings, and guided tours, as well as an adult education residential college.

The centrepiece is the grand Drawing Room, which hosts up to 120 guests.

Designed by Edinburgh architect, Thomas Bonnar, this unique room is a prime example of the best of Scottish 19th Century interior design. The ornate fresco ceiling alone took two years to complete.

Supporting this main room are another seven events rooms, which offer increased capacity for larger events.

The highly experienced in-house catering team offer everything from an informal working lunch to exclusive formal dinners in splendid surroundings. Newbattle Abbey is a popular choice for group accommodation with 30 single and 7 twin en suite campus bedrooms, and private

summer2013

guided tours are available on request.

The Abbey regularly hosts national and international events including the Celtic Festival, attracting visitors from across central Scotland. Earlier this year, Newbattle Abbey hosted the Midlothian Food and Drink Awards for the second time. The awards were presented at a gala dinner, which over 80 guests attended, hosted by local comedian Eric Davidson.

The menu for the evening showcased the finest local produce including wild garlic from the Abbey’s estate.

Awards organiser Caroline Wright said: “Newbattle Abbey provided a stunning backdrop for our second annual Midlothian Food and Drink Awards Dinner. The venue was fantastic and the staff were excellent to work with, our guests loved it! Thanks to all at Newbattle who helped make our event the success it was.”

On Sunday 22 September, from 1-5pm, Newbattle Abbey will raise its profile as a unique wedding venue when it hosts its first ever Wedding Fair.

For more information or to have a look around, please call 0131 663 1921 or email enquiries@newbattleabbey.com More at http://www.newbattleabbey.com

businessconnect

33

membercloseup

MEMBER CLOSE-UP Company Name: GH Event Catering Name: Brian Galbraith Position: Managing Director Website: www.gheventcatering.com What are the main activities of the business?

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

GH Event Catering, are an East Lothian based event management and catering business. We have an unrivalled client base, stretching throughout Scotland, from Wick to Wigton, servicing prestigious venues for private, charity and public sector clients, while being privileged to deliver corporate events for some of the world’s most distinct and reputable brands, from Whisky to Wool (with a little Parisian touch!).

Prioritising between running the business, and running events for our clients.

Our Wedding Packages have seen over 160 Couples get off to a good start in their married lives over the past year, and our reputation for delivering well planned, well organised and well delivered Weddings is unparalleled.

What is your favourite way to unwind?

Our produce is all sourced in Scotland, and we use only the best fresh local ingredients, simply cooked and presented beautifully. Call us for any event or catering requirements which you are considering, we will be pleased to offer any member of the Chamber, a 10% discount from our quoted prices for all events booked using reference, COC/12/13GH, and delivered by 30 June 2013.

Are you enjoying what you do everyday?

I wouldn’t do it unless I loved the thrill of pulling together an event with the team, which pleases and entertains our clients and we can add to our huge pile of compliments and thank yous.

As a business person, describe your three main qualities?

I would say; dedicated, resourceful and I’m a perfectionist!

What has been your most satisfying moment in business?

We love all our projects, and for 2012, we have had many, many great experiences, here are three which really stand out -delivering a prestigious and fun 60th birthday party in Dubai, catering for J.K. Rowling at her private dinner at the Lennoxlove Book Festival (as well as the 7000 visitors)! And our BIG event to end the year has been leading on the catering for the Chanel Fashion Show at Linlithgow Palace !

34

businessconnect

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

I wouldn’t turn back the clock, my past career experiences and choices have got me to where I am now

Traveling and a wee dram!

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

A wide and interesting group for me would be; Ian Rankin, ‘cos I want to hear more tales of Rebus, Katy Mehlua, ‘cos she could sing for her supper, Alex Salmond, so he could tell me what he is going to do for small businesses next year, Charlie MacLean, who could talk us through the best of the Malts, my amazing chef Trevor, who will definitely have to cook, my friends Sally and Sue, who would be the ‘light entertainment’ and keep us all topped up with their stories.

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

Get a good accountant, that talks sense, get a good marketing team, who can help you position your brand, get a great team around you, love them and keep them as long as you can.

Where do you see yourself in 10-years?

Doing the same, doing it better, and reaping the rewards of the hard work over the past three years.

summer2013

Mail your customers for less than the price of a stamp GMP Mail is the quick, convenient and cost-effective way to mail your customers. Just upload your document and customer records to our online system – and your job is printed and posted by us.

How does GMP Mail work?

From glossy promotional postcards to official customer correspondence, prices start from just 32p per item to create, print AND post.

� No minimum order quantity � Perfect for regular communications � No set-up fees, no contracts, no tie-ins

YOU CREATE Upload your document and customer data to our online system.

� Environmentally friendly – no storage or wastage

� Same day posting for fast delivery

PLUS! We offer a full range of print and mailing

WE PRINT

services, including exhibition signage, brochureware and promotional products.

Your mailing is printed by us to the highest quality digital standards.

To arrange a free demonstration of GMP Mail at your place of business, call

0131 629 0071 www.gmpprint.co.uk

WE POST Place your order by 3pm and we’ll post your mailing the same working day.

Green Business Award Winner, Midlothian & East Lothian Chamber of Commerce Business Awards 2012.

Lines open 9am-5pm, Monday to Friday. Prices exclude VAT and are based on our 2nd class postage service.

GMP Print Solutions Ltd, Unit 17, 32 Dryden Road, Bilston Glen Industrial Estate, Loanhead EH20 9LZ.

The Best Advice At Your Fingertips.

At SQA, we’re in touch with your business.

We work with your industry to design a range of relevant qualifications to help develop the particular skills your business needs to be more productive and more competitive.

And we offer a dedicated, named SQA Contact to give your company all the advice and guidance it needs to realise its full potential.

Get in touch, we’re here to help.

t: 0303 333 0330 e: mycentre@sqa.org.uk w: www.sqa.org.uk/businessdevelopment