Business Scotland 17 by Distinctive Media Group Ltd

BusinessScotland Scottish Chambers of Commerce Magazine

Developing a pipeline of talent through Skills For Growth

AUTUMN2019

Scottish Leather Group pledges 9000 new jobs Securing the future through sustainable tourism SCC Networkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s influential women secure top accolades

Scottish Chambers of Commerce

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BusinessScotland

CONTENTS

AUTUMN 2019

29 6

9 22

ON TRACK FOR EXPANSION THANKS TO SKILLS FOR GROWTH

EVIDENCE REINFORCES IMPORTANCE OF UK AVERTING CHAOTIC BREXIT

SCOTTISH BUSINESSES CALL FOR BREXIT OUTCOME THAT DELIVERS A ‘WALL OF CASH’ BUSINESS COMMUNITY GATHERS AT SNP CONFERENCE

108 VIRGIN TRAINS UPCYCLE OLD UNIFORMS TO HELP THE HOMELESS SCOTTISH LEATHER GROUP PLEDGES 9000 NEW JOBS SECURING THE FUTURE THROUGH SUSTAINABLE TOURISM SCOTRAIL LOOKS TO THE FUTURE

Scottish Chambers of Commerce Business Partners

56 73

95 108

A DIFFERENT APPROACH TO WEB DESIGN EXPLORATORY INDIA VISIT PAVES THE WAY FOR TRADE MISSION MATUGGA DISTILLERS TAPS INTO A STRONG ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT CHAMBER NETWORK’S LEADING BUSINESSWOMEN SECURE TOP ACCOLADES

Looking for funding? Here’s how we can help… Business loans from £25,000 to £100,000 Fixed interest rate No additional fees or charges Receive a decision in 2 weeks Support from a dedicated Loan Officer Apply online

Glentress Hotel Secured £100,000

Cloud Cover IT Secured £85,000

www.bls.scot info@bls.scot

EVi Charge Points Secured £25,000

FOREWORD

Ask any business to name its single greatest asset and most will say its people For companies with ambitions around growth, expansion, innovation and productivity, having the right blend of skills in place is an essential ingredient. Brexit has also brought the skills needs of Scotland’s economy into sharper focus, whilst the long-term effects of trends such as automation and technological development are affecting an increasing number of employers. As Scotland’s national skills agency, Skills Development Scotland (SDS) is helping employers face these challenges by equipping people and businesses with the skills to seize opportunities and realise their potential, driving both productivity and inclusive growth. To help our nation compete in the global market, we’re working closely with others to create a more collaborative and agile skills system that meets the needs of employers. We’re listening to feedback from business around more joined up services and support - committed to working with our partners in the skills and enterprise agencies to deliver the best possible outcomes. This support isn’t something that is available only to Scotland’s largest employers. We recognise that SMEs dominate Scotland’s business base, and so the success of our economy depends

on providing the right level of tailored support. That’s why in this edition of Business Scotland we’re proud to showcase Skills for Growth - a fully funded service for businesses with between five and 250 employees. It offers up to two days of business consultancy, helping employers understand their skills needs and to create a detailed people plan with guidance towards the right support. Mage Control Systems in East Kilbride is one such company to benefit from this service, using it to develop their use of work-based learning in order to help unlock their growth potential. The electronics firm has expanded its number of Modern Apprentices, developed close links with its local college, and is now looking to take on Foundation Apprentices so it can identify and bring through the highly skilled workforce it needs to serve clients across a range of sectors. They are a great example of how SDS can work with employers to meet their needs and how we are changing our skills system

Frank Mitchell

Chair of Skills Development Scotland to benefit both businesses and individuals. Elsewhere in this issue there are stories of other agencies and businesses who are similarly focused on the needs of Scotland’s people both now and in the long-term. That ranges from our partners at VisitScotland explaining their focus on sustainable tourism, to CalMac taking on more Modern Apprentices, ScotRail developing its approach to customer service through innovation, and Virgin Trains adopting the principles of the circular economy. The Scottish Chamber network is one of our key partners in creating a dynamic and responsive skills system and its our ambition that more and more of Scotland’s businesses get to benefit from it.

Featured Stories and Contributors Frank Mitchell

Tim Allan

Paul Carruthers

Liz Cameron OBE

Linda Murray

Scottish Leather Group

Malcolm Roughead OBE

Charandeep Singh

Calmac

Chair, Skills Development Scotland

Director & Chief Executive, Scottish Chambers of Commerce

Chief Executive, VisitScotland

President, Scottish Chambers of Commerce

Director of Strategy, Scottish Enterprise

Deputy Chief Executive of Scottish Chambers of Commerce

Business Development Manager, MarketSpan

Business Scotland

COVER STORY

On track for expansion thanks to Skills for Growth Operations Director of engineering firm Mage Control Systems, Janet Menzies, has seen the firm enjoy rapid growth in the last few years. She turned to the Skills for Growth service from Skills Development Scotland (SDS) to help the company expand further. Skills for Growth provides a fresh perspective into the skills the business requires for the future.

was supported by Neil Cunningham, SDS Employer Engagement Adviser, and consultant Sheila Anderson from Remarkable.

Mage, based in East Kilbride, provides bespoke electronic engineering solutions to a wide range of sectors, including medical, aerospace and renewables. Started in 2016, the company now boasts a workforce of 18. Skills for Growth – offered in partnership with Remarkable - is a fully-funded service for companies with between five and 250 employees and offers up to two days of free consultancy, helping employers such as Mage Control Systems understand their skills needs and to create a detailed business plan with guidance towards the right support. Janet said: “We had been looking at a number of sources of support to help the business grow. “The business is growing and adapting - and

Janet added: “We felt that we were ready to expand the workforce, but Sheila helped us reflect that we weren’t quite there yet. She worked alongside us to plan for growth - but done in a structured way.” According to Neil, Mage is a specialist and innovative company which is keen to expand.

will soon be moving into manufacturing too. It was important to look at how best to recruit and develop our current workforce.”

Structured plan for growth Mage was receiving support from Business Gateway which referred the firm to Skills for Growth from SDS. The Mage team

He said: “They are offering high-value, high-tech jobs within the local area. It’s a company doing very bespoke pieces of work across different sectors. “They have not long moved to new premises as they have outgrown where they were.”

Developing a pipeline of talent

As part of the package of support, Neil and Sheila assessed the skills needs

We have now built up excellent connections with New College Lanarkshire. Because of the specialist nature of what the business offers, work-based learning has become a key component to our recruitment strategy. Janet Menzies, Operations Director of engineering firm Mage Control Systems

Business Scotland

COVER STORY

of the company, providing them with recommendations to develop its workforce. Neil added: “Our support focussed on helping Mage develop a short and long-term recruitment pipeline. “This included developing a recruitment strategy to attract under-represented groups.” Thanks to this support, Mage has been able to introduce new recruitment practices, including the introduction of Modern Apprenticeships. Janet said: “We have now built up excellent connections with New College Lanarkshire. Because of the specialist nature of what the business offers, work-based learning has become a key component to our recruitment strategy. “I couldn’t be prouder of the fact we now have four Modern Apprentices.” Janet is conscious of the skills pressures facing the industry now and in the future. “In terms of engineering, we know we are going to have a shortage of younger people coming into the profession. We need to think forward – and that’s why I am looking to take on two Foundation Apprentices at the moment.” Foundation Apprenticeships allow school pupils in S5/S6 to spend time out of the classroom with a learning provider and in a workplace to gain a qualification at the same level as a Higher, giving them a head-start on their career.

Network of support In addition to local learning providers, Skills for Growth also helped Mage benefit from

other sources of business support, including Developing the Young Workforce (DYW), and Routes to Work South, a charity specialising in supporting the unemployed into training, education or sustainable employment. Janet added: “Neil has been such a huge help, especially in terms of helping us develop connections with the likes of colleges and other agencies. I would describe this as being a really good network of support.” Janet is clear that the support from SDS has made a significant difference to the company. She said: “It’s had a huge impact on what the company does, particularly in terms of our approach to recruitment. “Thanks to the support from SDS, my knowledge has increased, our networks are greater, and we know where to go for advice.”

Investing in a young workforce

Providing an attractive and rewarding environment for a local young workforce matters a great deal to Mage, which has developed connections with local schools already. Janet added: “Our values are very important – regardless of the industry we are working in, we are able to help develop and invest in local young people. “It‘s not always about what we do but how we do it – our team and our culture must be at the forefront of everything.” Mage Control is one of hundreds of business which benefit from Skills for Growth each year. To find out more please visit ourskillsforce.co.uk/growth

Business Scotland

OPINION

Evidence reinforces importance of UK averting chaotic Brexit

Political turbulence and ongoing uncertainty about the final outcome of the Brexit process is hampering business planning, making it impossible for firms to know what to prepare for.

By Dr Liz Cameron OBE

Chief Executive of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce

New research from the Scottish Chambers of Commerce shows a high number of Scottish firms are not ready for a no-deal Brexit. We have consistently called on government to avoid a messy and disorderly exit from the EU. But with still no end in sight to political turmoil which continues to relentlessly churn up uncertainty, it is the duty of Government to provide clearer and more consistent information to help businesses in Scotland and throughout the UK prepare. The survey of companies – from the smallest to the largest and across a range of sectors found conflicting political messages over the likelihood of no deal and gaps in government guidance, half (50%) of Scottish businesses have not done a Brexit risk assessment. Those that trade internationally (50%) are more likely to have carried out a risk

Business Scotland

assessment on the impact of Brexit to their business than their counterparts that trade in the UK only (39%). This represents a welcome increase on when we surveyed business last year when as many as 67% per cent had not carried out a Brexit assessment. But with just weeks until a potential no deal exit, there is still a sizeable proportion of firms that aren’t in a position to prepare for the impact. Political turbulence and ongoing uncertainty about the final outcome of the Brexit process is hampering business planning, making it impossible for firms to know what to prepare for. While there has been an increase in the guidance available from government on conditions in a no-deal, the advice needs to be clearer and more consistent. In many critical areas, such as regulations, customs and trading in Northern Ireland, there is still a lack of practical information on which firms can plan. In a no-deal scenario, firms that trade with the European Union will face new customs procedures at the border. However, low

levels of awareness around special customs and trade schemes are of particular concern, as this highlights the potential for disruption at borders in an unwanted nodeal situation. The Chamber Network has campaigned successfully for the Government to automatically issue European Union registration and identification numbers, which are critical for trading across borders, to all VAT-registered businesses. Now, we are calling on HM Government to either automatically enrol or support businesses to access these other important customs and border facilitations. We also urge all companies – not just those trading across borders – to consider the potential impact of Brexit on their operations. Scotland and UK-only businesses will face impacts linked to their own suppliers and customers, or to changes elsewhere in the economy, and should take steps to assess these. Yet again, our evidence reinforces the importance of the UK averting a chaotic exit from the European Union.

ECONOMIC INSIGHT

Scottish businesses call for a Brexit outcome that delivers a “wall of cash” economic upside, says latest SCC survey

The latest Scottish Chambers of Commerce (SCC) Quarterly Economic Indicator survey for Q3 of 2019 shows that businesses continue to struggle due to factors caused by Brexit uncertainty in the most recent quarter.

By Tim Allan

President, Scottish Chambers of Commerce

Confidence remains on a downward trend in most sectors compared to the same period last year. Yet businesses, particularly in the financial and business services sector, are cautiously optimistic that a positive outcome to Brexit on 31 October could start restoring confidence in the Scottish economy. The survey, conducted by Scottish Chambers of Commerce, in partnership with the Fraser of Allander Institute, is Scotland’s longest-running economic survey of its kind where the challenges that businesses face are laid bare. The Q3 QEI revealed that overall business performance has declined in the last year as companies take on board extra uncertainties caused by the tortuous progress of the Brexit process. As the UK faces yet another deadline in the Brexit process, construction and manufacturing have reported severe challenges in terms of future orders, exports and investment. Meanwhile companies in sectors including retail

and tourism face continued challenges in recruiting people with the right skills as the number of available workers from Europe continues to decline. SCC continues to affirm the view that a disorderly, no-deal departure from EU will have painful, long lasting consequences for the economy in Scotland and the UK. Though the Chamber also believes that, if Brexit is not just done but done well, there is significant potential for an upside. Uncertainty has undoubtedly stymied corporate investment. Scottish Chambers of Commerce therefore puts a direct challenge to political leaders today – deliver a positive outcome to Brexit and the economy will benefit. There is a wall of cash that has been pent up while the process of leaving the EU has unfolded which can and will be unleashed. What employers need more than ever is for Scottish and UK governments to hone their focus on the needs of the economy. Scotland in particular suffers a longstanding problem of slower economic growth relative to England and poor productivity compared to global peers. If Scotland is to deliver an inclusive economy that provides the jobs, skills and prosperity for current and future

generations, these trends must be corrected urgently.

Key highlights: On recession risk: data suggests that Scotland should avoid a ‘technical recession’ - defined as two consecutive quarters of negative growth – when the next set of official figures are released later on this year. On the construction sector: The balance of construction firms increasing investment – total, capital and training – all fell into negative territory in Q3, with the level of work in progress at the lowest level in six years. On the retail sector: Confidence dipped in the retail and wholesale sector in the quarter as revenue trends fell back. Domestic issues such as too-high business rates and competition – online and on the high street – remain key concerns. * The QEI surveys firms from five key sectors in the Scottish Economy: Construction, Manufacturing, Financial and Business Services, Retail and Tourism. This survey was conducted between August and September of 2019. 350 firms responded to the Q3 2019 edition of the survey.

Business Scotland

ANNUAL BUSINESS AWARDS

The biggest and best yet – Annual Scottish Business Address 2019 Bringing together 500 industry leaders representing 170 Scottish companies, SCC’s Flagship business event was a vibrant night of connectivity and entrepreneurship. The annual celebration showcased just how resilient, adaptable and outstanding Scotland’s business community really is – despite the looming threats of Brexit and an unstable political environment, Scottish businesses – small, medium and large showed that it is just business as usual. Sponsored by CGI, Codeclan and Skills Development Scotland, the annual event also included a charity prize draw supporting the ARCHIE Foundation, Edinburgh Children’s Hospital and the Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity. With some outstanding prizes including a Maserati Driving Experience, Laing’s Jewellery worth £900 and a signed Michelle Cohen print celebrating the Oor Wullie’s BIG Bucket Trail on offer, it’s not surprising the prize draw raised over £4,500 for the nominated charities! As ever, the evening featured an engaging line-up of business speakers: Tim Allan, President, Scottish Chambers of Commerce; Depute First Minister John Swinney; Justene Ewing, Vice President CGI Scotland and Jonathan Hinkles, Managing Director, Loganair. This year, the Business Keynote was delivered by Jonathan Hinkles, Managing Director of Loganair, who shared his experience of transforming Loganair into the UK’s fifth largest airline as well

as Loganair’s plans to introduce electric aircrafts by the end of 2021 and how important issues such as diversity in the workplace and the climate emergency are for businesses today. Depute First Minister, John Swinney also delivered a key message on climate change highlighting the role that the Scottish Government will play in encouraging businesses to take the initiative in developing opportunities that address climate change. Justene Ewing of CGI delivered the partner

speech as the event’s headline sponsor highlighting the importance of upskilling Scotland’s workforce and the key role which technology plays in this upskilling. Closing the evening, Dr Liz Cameron OBE, Director and Chief Executive of SCC emphasised the strength of the Chamber Network as the largest business network in the world, highlighting the importance of businesses and the Government working together as equal partners with the best interests of the business community at heart.

Panel conversation The Annual Scottish Business Address 2019 included, for the first time, an exclusive ‘Conversation with Global Chamber Leaders.’ Hosted by Kaye Adams, the panel, made up of, Dr Liz Cameron OBE, Chief Executive of SCC; Francis Martin CBE, President of British Chambers of Commerce; and Chris Southworth, Secretary-General of the International Chambers of Commerce (UK) addressed global business topics including international trade, the cost of doing business and the future of work. The ‘Conversation with Global Chamber Leaders’ comes at an important time in business and the insight, expertise and world-view enables a greater understanding of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for businesses in Scotland and the UK and internationally. From left to right Chris Southworth, Francis Martin CBE, Liz Cameron OBE, Kaye Adams

Business Scotland

ANNUAL BUSINESS AWARDS

Forth Valley Chamber of Commerce @Forthvalleych

Thank you @ScotChambers and @lizcameronscc for a fantastic evening! Delighted to be representing @Forthvalleych at such an important business event, inspiring speakers, let’s keep working together to help continue to grow the Scottish economy #SCCBusinessAddress19 ewanramsay @ ewanramsay

Inspirational discussion about the opportunities for Scottish SME’s despite challenging times! Let’s seek out new markets and be positive! @ ScotChambers asb

@asbwomen

Delighted to be at the @ScotChambers Annual Business Address this evening.#collaboration JusteneEwing @JusteneEwing

A great honour to represent @ CGI_UKNEWS tonight at the #SCCBusinessAddress19 so many amazing people in 1 room & thank you to all of the guests at table 10 #safetypins #savetheday Thank you @ScotChambers @lizcameronscc @ TimAllan_SCC for a great evening &

fabulous company

Liz Cameron OBE @lizcameronscc

Wow! With your support, this year’s #SCCBusinessAddress19 was the biggest-ever! Thank you to our inspiring speakers: @JohnSwinney, @chrisouthworth, @britishchambers, @JusteneEwing, @FlyLoganair, @TimAllan_SCC & @CodeClanScot #WinningForBusiness #LeadingChamberNetwork

Don’t miss out on the Annual Scottish Business Address 2020. Email us today to reserve your place and quote “SCCMagazineAutumn2020” for an exclusive discount. Contact Siobhan Divers today on sdivers@scottishchambers.org.uk or call 0141 4447500 This offer is valid until Sunday 1st December 2019

Business Scotland

BURNESS PAULL

Forget the Fear – the experience is worth it Generally when I write it’s on the topics of Intellectual Property and technology, in keeping with the day job. However, before the legal world was even on the horizon my passion was for that sport with a small white ball and metal stick. In fact, my experiences of competing and playing for Scotland at golf shaped my personality and the way I interact with my colleagues and practice law. I was fortunate enough to play in some amazing Scottish teams and under some fantastic captains, amassing Home International wins, a European Team bronze medal and individually becoming Scottish Ladies Champion. Today I no longer compete at that level, but keep a handicap of +1 and firmly believe that having those experiences has helped me progress, tackle University and the working world (I don’t just mean being invited to golf matches with clients, although that is a perk). Recently I had cause to reflect on my sporting past, when I was honoured to Captain the Scottish Girls Under 18 team in the Home International Matches at Downfield Golf Club near Dundee. This included the stark realisation that I had just turned 30 and one of my team members was 12, so I am no longer one of the young ones! Given my background, it has always been apparent to me how important getting girls involved in sport is. The lessons learned through sport are an amazing way to gain confidence and develop communication, time management, resiliency and social skills. It is no coincidence that, after hitting tee shots and holing putts in front of spectators, public speaking doesn’t fill me with dread, or that I became a litigation lawyer in keeping with my competitive nature. Despite the countless benefits there remains a gap between the level of participation in sport between men and women, girls and boys. So why don’t more girls show their skills? Research has shown that one of the main factors holding women and girls back from participating in sports is fear. Whether this be fear of not being very good, fear of looking out of place or fear of choosing to be active rather than spending time with family. Fear is no doubt something we can all relate to, whether that be at work, in sport or family life. While I had a successful amateur sporting career, fear is certainly something I encountered and perhaps never fully won the battle with. From the daunting and selfconscious prospect of being the only girl at my golf club’s junior team matches, to throwing up before junior competitions due

Business Scotland

Megan Briggs to the fear of underperforming. Ironically it wasn’t until I started my legal career, and was not able to compete as often, that the fear started to drift. We all know how difficult it is to put yourself out there and not know the outcome. But had I not done so, I would never have had any of the achievements, lessons learned, disappointments or friends made. The idea of not worrying or being afraid of something before it’s happened is a phrase my Dad would consistently remind me of, and one I tried to instil in the Under 18 Scotland team. Hopefully I managed to inspire the girls and pass on some of the knowledge I gained in encountering fear and trying to overcome it. My wish is that they play every round with freedom, uninhibited, and that this freedom follows them into their future careers and the generations that come after them.

Whether they were disappointed with their result or finished triumphant, the girls will draw upon their experience in future tournaments, studies or jobs, and the fact that they met fear and waved it goodbye. Personally I learned so much from my time as Captain, not least that we can’t let perspective come too late and that Snapchat really is the way all under 18s communicate. So whether it’s taking up a new sport or activity, going for a new job, starting a new career or taking on a new challenge, fear is par for the course - but it is also an emotion we create ourselves. It’s time to get out there and forget the fear. Megan Briggs Senior Solicitor Burness Paull LLP

Vibrant energy, effortless elegance, precisely choreographed. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a demanding balance to deliver the perfect performance. In ballet and law.

OFFICIAL PHOTOGRAPHY PARTNER OF SCOTTISH BALLET

RACE TO ZERO

What can shared transport do for your staff and business How do you travel for work? Whether it’s getting stuck in traffic, boring and lonely drives to the office or travel to meetings, none of it is particularly enjoyable. However, there are lots of shared transport options out there, and at CoMoUK our aim is to find the one that works for you and your business. We look at shared transport, such as car clubs or bike share, as part of the solution to environmental impacts of travel. In addition, there are people within communities who are isolated due to lack of access to transport, and shared transport can be a lifeline to these people The question that is most likely on your lips is ‘what is shared transport?’ At its most simple you either share the journey or share the mode of transport. This can mean

Shared transport offers businesses the opportunity to support their staff, the environment and the local community but the other great thing about shared transport is that it can save organisations money. Business Scotland

ride sharing, car clubs or bike sharing. For many, the idea of car sharing would bring to mind the TV show of the same name. It was hilarious but not always an ideal commute. However, we can tell you that this isn’t the whole picture of shared transport. Car clubs are pay-as-you-drive hire schemes allowing members to book a variety of cars online for the time that they need - from an hour to a day - and paying only for the hire time and the distance driven. Bike share is very similar to a car club. It provides users access to bikes when they need them, for the time they need. On the other hand, ride share is something many people are familiar with; it allows you to share a journey, whether it is a commute to work or a longer distant trip, to the same destination with others. Shared transport offers businesses the opportunity to support their staff, the environment and the local community but the other great thing about shared transport is that it can save organisations money. In the UK, businesses spend millions of pounds on grey fleets for staff travel. Swapping to utilising a car club rather than grey fleet can reduce this cost. Car clubs are already in most cities in Scotland this means, as a

business, you could utilise existing car clubs. There is also the option of having a car club set-up specifically at office locations. If you used car clubs in tandem with bike share you can further reduce the cost of vehicle usage.

What are the benefits of bike share? Supporting your Staff Giving staff the opportunity to travel by bike can improve health and reduce sickness. Bike share schemes can be used to travel to meetings and e-bikes can increase the distances that can be travelled with ease. Optimising your Business By utilising bikes to travel, journey times can be improved by avoiding traffic. As a business you would also have the opportunity to consider reducing the number of parking spaces. By using e-bikes for shorter journeys this reduces car use and your business can further reduce costs. Caring for the Environment Your business can help reduce emissions and promote a healthy lifestyle by encouraging staff to cycle. E-bikes can also be used for a variety of journey types and enables wider use of bikes reducing the need for cars for business travel.

RACE TO ZERO

What are benefits of car clubs and ride share? Supporting your Staff Studies have shown that sitting in traffic alone during a journey increases stress levels and often feels like time is being wasted. Offering your staff the opportunity to share can make it a more enjoyable journey and alleviate stress. Having access to a car club vehicle for work travel gives staff access to vehicles when they need them and allows them to consider other commuting options such as cycling or walking Optimising your Business Swapping to using a car club rather than a grey fleet can reduce the cost burden to your company. Car clubs can be set up to suit your business needs. Caring for the Environment Using car clubs and ride share can reduce the number of private cars on the road helping reduce emissions. In addition, the majority of car club cars are more environmentally friendly than your typical grey fleet car, which also helps the environment when car travel is necessary.

What we do? CoMoUK works in various ways to raise awareness and move shared transport forwards. Some of the ways we do this are; CoMoUK acts as an advocate for shared transport. We work with a variety of partners with shared goals to increase the reach and strength of shared transport.

We carry out annual surveys with car club and bike share users to gain insight into how the services are used and the impact they have on travel behaviours. These findings feed into the future developments of the schemes. For those who are interested in setting up a shared transport scheme, we create and share guides on best practice for the development of different models of shared transport. We work as a consultancy with local authorities, transport authorities and community groups to set-up and develop shared transport schemes. We deliver pioneering projects to help ensure that the social and environmental benefits of shared transport are maximised. CoMoUK is an accreditation body for car clubs and bike share schemes in the UK to ensure that users receive the best service. We act as a support service for individuals or businesses who want to find out how shared transport could work for them. Offering materials that they can use to find out more about shared transport but also promote shared transport within their workplaces.

the need for change, and we want to be there to support these positive and innovative transport changes and ensure shared transport is part of the sustainable transport future.

Our Team At CoMoUK we are proud of our team of experts. We have several members of staff who are experts in specific shared transport options such as car clubs or bike share. In addition, there are team members who can help with marketing, project management and research. All of this ensures that we can offer the best support and advice across shared transport.

Interested in shared transport? If shared transport is something that you would like to explore for your business, then get in touch and we can help find the right option for you. We also offer templates online that you can use to promote shared transport to your staff such as posters and leaflets explaining the benefits of car clubs or bike share. E: scotland@como.org.uk W: www.como.org.uk Twitter: @Como_uk

Why we do it? CoMoUK believes that now is the time that we can start making positive changes to transport. Politicians, local authorities and other decision makers have acknowledged

Business Scotland

RACE TO ZERO

At Travelknowhow Scotland, we connect, inform and help Scottish businesses to find active and sustainable travel solutions that work for them and their employees. Our goal is to help employees and employers to work together and start a conversation about how to make travel to and from work more active and sustainable by providing the up-to-date news and information on travel solutions that can change behaviour and benefit all. This 6- month pilot project is an exciting collaboration between Ember Technology and Travelknowhow Scotland and is funded by Smarter Choices, Smarter Places Open Fund and the 7 Scottish Regional Transport Partnerships. We are working with a handful of businesses across Scotland to run this pilot.

Travelknowhow Scotland is an online resource which offers organisations across Scotland FREE, easy access to a wide variety of travel planning solutions to develop and implement workplace Travel Plans and to engage with employees in order to start changing travel behaviour within organisations. Covering travel by both staff and visitors the website offers:

To register and gain full access to the all available resources, visit www.travelknowhowscotland.co.uk or contact us at info@travelknohwowscotland.co.uk

access to travel planning information and links to local resources; specialist travel planning advice; specialist marketing advice to aid employee engagement; practical hints and tips; and adaptable downloadable templates aimed at providing cost effective internal and external communications. Funded and supported by Scotland’s 7 Regional Transport Partnerships and Transport Scotland, Travelknowhow Scotland supports and contributes directly to the Scottish government’s 2045 net-zero target. Encouraging more active and sustainable travel within Scottish workplaces is going to play a crucial role in the reduction of emissions and with the introduction of measures such as the Low Emission Zones and proposals to introduce a workplace parking levy, Travelknowhow Scotland is on hand to offer Scottish employers practical advice and guidance to allow them to support and encouraging their employees to start changing their travel behaviour. Nearly 200 Scottish organisations are currently registered on the website. Business Scotland

You can also find us at Fiona Bailey, Workplace Services Team Leader, Scottish Water - “Travelknowhow is our go to place when looking for additional resources on active and sustainable travel. It provides quick and easy advice ensuring we can deliver the best sustainable options to our people. It is a great resource which provides us with effective support in promoting more active and sustainable travel.” Interested in taking part in a FREE pilot project? RIGHT TRACK is a new travel behaviour application which aims to support and encourage employees to embrace more sustainable and active travel choices in their daily commute to work. RIGHT TRACK focuses on presenting viable travel alternatives based on the users current commuting behaviours and mobility profile. Behaviour change is stimulated by presenting personalised benefits, targeted content articles, commuting challenges, workplace improvements and social commuting.

tkhscotland travel-know-how-scotland

RACE TO ZERO

Drivers in South Ayrshire are being provided with access to two Nissan Leaf electric vehicles under a new electric community car club. South Ayrshire Community Transport’s (SACT) primary mission is to combat social isolation by connecting people with the places and facilities they need. Now, in addition to their extremely well-used fleet of 10 minibus, SACT has launched a Community Car Club in North Ayr. North Ayr is an area of multiple social deprivation with low car ownership. The ca. 16,000 residents regularly report great difficulty in attending medical appointments, hospital visits, shopping and other short trips using public transport for reasons of availability, accessibility and cost. The two-year pilot scheme has been created on the back of almost £60,000 of funding from SP Energy Networks’ Green Economy Fund in 2018 and will enable people who live and work in North Ayr to use the cars to provide vital transport to medical appointments, job interviews or even just shopping. The social benefit will be considerable. The availability of an affordable community

a not-for-profit basis encouraging wider use. Fewer standard vehicles on the road means less air and noise pollution.

car club will allow improved access to health care and shopping and leisure facilities for those who cannot use public transport. The significantly lower costs of running the Nissan Leaf in comparison to standard cars means that the vehicles can be hired out at a locally affordable price on

Catriona Haston, community transport manager at South Ayrshire Community Transport, said: “We are extremely proud to be launching the new electric vehicle Community Car Club for local residents. Our current transport services have been popular and it’s great that we’re now able to expand these to be able to respond to local demand. Additionally, as well as helping people in our community, the Green Economy Fund has allowed us to deliver an environmentally friendly mode of transport that encourages others in our community to start thinking about how they can help tackle climate change.”

Cycling is good for business

Want to make your workplace more cycle friendly? Let Bike for Good do the work for you. With a climate emergency announced, the focus is on businesses and individuals to change their behaviours to save our planet. The average 2.6 mile car journey releases more than 60 balloons worth of carbon emissions. By encouraging your employees to cycle to work, the cleaner the air will become. Cycling has been shown to have a positive effect on stress and anxiety, physical health, and productivity.

• Bike for Good bring their mobile repair workshop Dr Bike to your workplace, servicing your employees’ bikes while they work. • As an accredited service centre, they can help your workplace work towards the Cycle Friendly Employer Award. • Workplace rides can be organised for your team to learn how to road cycle safely, and fleets of bikes can be ordered for teams. Let Bike for Good support you in your mission to combat climate change, and improve your staff benefits.

Enquire using promo code BUSINESSSCOTLAND for a discounted booking. E: richard@bikeforgood.org.uk | T: 0141 248 5409 | www.bikeforgood.org.uk/employers

Business Scotland

RACE TO ZERO

The travel choices we all make every day affect our planet. Make transport part of the solution to the global challenge of climate change with greener, smarter, coach travel Coach travel is fast, efficient, comfortable and economical. Choosing to travel with Rennies Coaches to group meetings, parties and events not only reduces your individual and organisational carbon footprint, but it also provides a social way to travel. Catch up with colleagues and discuss the agenda or menu en route, and forget about the directions and parking! At Rennies, the modern coach hire fleet ranges from 49 to 70 seat vehicles, and feature reclining seats, air conditioning, seat belts, on board toilet and free WiFi. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve also got 76 seat double deck vehicles

for larger group bookings, ideal for staff shuttles from facilities such as park and rides. Wherever you are headed, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got the vehicles to get you there and back efficiently.

Group travel reduces congestion on our roads Hiring a Rennies coach for group travel also leads to an important reduction in road congestion. A coach full of passengers takes up less space on the road in comparison to individuals travelling by car. For example, one 49 seat Rennies coach is the equivalent to 10 cars!

How do we contribute to a greener future? Rennies Coaches has a dedicated Eco Driver Team who track and monitor how efficiently our fleet is driven. Our vehicles use fuel with 30% biodiesel and a hi-tech fuel additive, manufactured using nanotechnology to keep fuel emissions to a minimum.

Travelling by coach offers many benefits, and Rennies Coaches prides itself on being flexible when it comes to your itinerary and arranging your travel. Let us take the pressure off of driving, parking and the environment, and transfer you in comfort to your destination and home again. Booking is easy, call our team on 01383 518660, email rennies.enquiries@stagecoachbus.com or visit rennies.co.uk

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Business Scotland

Rennies Coaches

RACE TO ZERO

New site to help businesses unlock environmental benefits of an active workplace An active workforce can bring rewards for businesses of all sizes. As well as a simple, low cost investment that helps foster a happy, healthy working culture and active employees, it is a great way for workplaces to boost their green credentials. However, the information and support needed to bring about change can often be confusing and hard to find. This is why Sustrans have partnered with nine active and sustainable travel organisations in Scotland, to create Way To Work; a one-stop-shop for funding, training, support, awards, challenges, competitions and travel planning opportunities from across the country. The site guides employers and staff to information on walking, cycling, car sharing and public transport and features the latest active and sustainable travel news. Having all sustainable travel updates and offers in one place makes it easier for workplaces to make greener, long-term changes to their organisation. From tips on introducing car sharing, to how to

encourage staff to walk or cycle for more journeys the site is a quick and easy way to reduce for workplaces to reinforce their commitment to sustainability and reducing emissions. In fact, research shows that, taking into account individual travel patterns and constraints, almost half of all short car trips can be swapped for walking or cycling. This helps to reduce the amount of carbon emissions from motor travel benefitting workplaces as well as the world around us. Additionally, investing in sustainable and active travel helps to save money, improve employee health and wellbeing and results in happier employees and highly motivated workforce. It also is extremely attractive to potential new recruits.

1999

Walking and cycling can be a huge part of the fight to tackle air pollution at a local level and has many knock on benefits to workplaces. Make your changes today: www.waytoworkscot.org

2019

Anniversary

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Business Scotland

RACE TO ZERO

Energy compliance: Why Scottish businesses need to see opportunity – not red tape For many Scottish businesses – the pressure of meeting increasingly stringent carbon reporting requirements will be part of everyday life. However, greater understanding is needed if more firms are to turn compliance into a golden opportunity for improved operational efficiencies – and ultimately bottom line impact. Dan Hubbard, left, Chartered Energy Manager and Strategic Account Manager, at the UK’s leading utility consultancy BiU explains… scheme’s well-considered name. The whole point of the scheme is to assist businesses to identify and implement cost-effective energy savings. The ESOS scheme has only been in place since 2015, so it is still early days. However, the interim evaluation of ESOS (in its first phase) reports that four in five complier organisations reported some form of energy efficiency improvements in the 18 months prior to mid-2016. And, one third of these organisations also reported that ESOS had been influential in their decision to implement at least one of these improvements.

Just over a year ago, our energy team at BiU noticed a UK-wide trend: we realised that a deep (and worrying) disconnect was opening up between UK businesses and their understanding of fast-paced change relating to legally-binding reporting on carbon use. Now, this might seem like a small-fry problem compared with some of the really big challenges we’re facing in the Brexit landscape and global climate change. But, it made us stop and think: if companies are lacking awareness and information about the basic principles of their responsibilities – then surely it stands to reason that they are also failing to see how ‘red tape’ can also present long-term opportunity?

Start with the basics Let’s start with the newest (and perhaps biggest) change to affect UK businesses. Introduced in 2018, is the Government’s new reporting programme – known as SECR (Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting). It replaced the CRC Energy Efficiency Scheme. As if that’s not enough to contend with - large enterprises are also expected to comply with Phase 2 of ESOS (Energy Saving Opportunities Scheme), the Government’s flagship energy efficiency initiative. For the uninitiated, fear not: an overview of both schemes is outlined below. However, for those of you who are clued up on the basics – then keep reading; because our message to you is about the wider business efficiency and opportunity that both schemes present.

Introducing… Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme (ESOS) Let’s start with the Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme (ESOS). Introduced nearly five years ago to meet the requirements of the EU Energy Efficiency Directive, ESOS applies to large UK undertakings and their corporate groups. Now in Phase 2, the deadline for compliance

Business Scotland

Don’t delay, act now is 31 December 2019. ESOS mainly affects businesses but can also apply to not-forprofit organisations and any other non-public sector undertakings that are large enough to meet the qualification criteria, which are: Any UK company that either: • Employs 250 or more people or • Has an annual turnover in excess of €50million (£38,937,777) and an annual balance sheet total in excess of €43million (£33,486,489). An overseas company with a UK registered establishment which has 250 or more UK employees (paying income task in the UK). If you’re wondering if ESOS is optional legislation, the answer is very definitely ‘no’! If you meet the qualifying criteria then participation is compulsory. And, as a Scottish business, compliance and enforcement (including financial penalties for failure to submit your returns within the required timeframe) lies with the Scottish Environment Protection Agency. The important thing to remember is that ESOS is all about opportunity. Hence the

Our view is that ESOS can too easily devolve into a tick-box exercise. And, we advise businesses to act swiftly – the sooner you start the ESOS audit process (which has to be carried out by an approved ESOS Lead Assessor) you’re one step closer to cutting out energy wastage – and implementing a long-term carbon reduction strategy that delivers results straight to the bottom line. In fact – the Government estimates that by implementing ESOS audit recommendations, companies can achieve savings 13.5 times greater than the cost of the ESOS audit.

Meet SECR… the latest carbon reporting legislation Moving on, let’s look at Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting (SECR) which is a new, mandatory carbon and energy reporting scheme for large UK companies (your turnover is £36 million or over; or your balance sheet total is £18 million or over; or you have 250 employees or more). Companies within scope need to collect and measure their energy and carbon information – and submit this as part of their annual accounts filed with Companies House. Businesses that come under the scope of SECR will have to do their reporting for their first financial year that starts on or

RACE TO ZERO

Our message to you is about the wider business efficiency and opportunity Don’t delay, act now: Our view is that ESOS can too easily devolve into a tick-box exercise Companies can achieve savings 13.5 times greater than the cost of the ESOS audit after 1st April 2019. This means that your first financial report will be due on or after 1st April 2020, with the exact date depending on your organisation’s financial year. To fully explain SECR - and all that it entails – will take well beyond the space we’ve got available here - and the chances are, if you’re affected, you’ll be well underway towards compliance by now. Our Chief Commercial Officer sees SECR as a door-opener to massive savings for UK plc: “We’re advising Scottish businesses to view SECR – like ESOS – as a means of catalysing efficiency and carbon reduction. We share the UK Government’s view that SECR should result in a reduction of £1.3 million in annual costs to business. Some 4TWh of annual energy savings and associated annual carbon savings of 0.8MtCO2e are also predicted, leading to a total forecast benefit to UK society of £1.5 billion. These are seriously big numbers.”

Knowledge is power If you think we’ve covered every inch of detail on ESOS and SECR in the brief overviews above, well, sadly, there’s so much more

you need to know. The devil is in the detail as they say. The good news is that helping businesses to understand the detail and the opportunities is very much part of our culture at BiU. With this in mind, we launched an online ‘Energy Hub’ launched to help tackle firms’ energy and carbon challenges and questions. The Energy Advice Hub is the UK’s only dedicated ‘go-to’ content platform dedicated to delivering agnostic, non-partisan advice, news and information on energy legislation and compliance as well as other carbon reduction drivers. It guides companies of all shapes, sizes from a range sectors, through new carbon reporting legislation and share energy efficiency best practice.

Beyond compliance Crucially, BiU’s Energy Advice Hub helps firms to go beyond basic compliance and identify real commercial opportunities from energy efficiency. It answers questions – covering the most precise of details - on a range of topics, such as smart energy procurement, energy management strategies and low carbon technologies.

“We recognised the need for a comprehensive information resource that would help companies make smart choices on energy challenges,” says Anthony Mayall. “Whether you are an energy manager, an FM, a C-suite professional, or you’re running an SME, we’re committed to delivering content on the energy topics that matter to you and your organisation.” Even more importantly, making use of an experienced energy consultancy like BiU (biu.com) could also be a chance to approach energy use in a more strategic, high-level manner – unlocking a depth of energy savings that were previously inaccessible. Worried about carbon reporting? Unsure of your legal obligations? Do you want to improve operational efficiencies through carbon reduction in your organisation? Request our SECR guide (secrhub.co.uk) or drop us a line to hello@biu.com

Business Scotland

SNP BUSINESS DAY

Business Community gathers at SNP Conference to talk Economy Scottish Chambers of Commerce hosted a gathering of business leaders at the recent SNP Conference, to talk about and highlight key economic issues directly to Scottish Government Ministers. to carbon reduction as well as taking a “whole system view” with regards to the development of future transport.

Taking place at the newly-opened Event Complex Aberdeen, representatives from the banking, aviation, financial services, engineering, energy, transport and technology sectors met for a full day of face-to-face sessions with the likes of First Minister Nicola Sturgeon MSP and Finance Secretary Derek MacKay MSP. Chaired by Charandeep Singh, Deputy Chief Executive of Scottish Chambers of Commerce, business attendees had valuable opportunities to discuss a variety of issues over the course of the day. First Minister Nicola Sturgeon opened the business event and took questions directly from the audience on a wide range of topics including the opportunities of climate change, the wellbeing economy, digital skills and the latest political developments. The First Minister reiterated her commitment to working with the Scottish Chambers of Commerce Network as valuable partners and stressed the importance of maintaining an open dialogue with the business community. Michael Russell, Secretary for Government Business and Constitutional Relations, otherwise known as the Scottish Government’s “Brexit secretary”, gave frank and insightful views on the current state of affairs.

Business Scotland

A lively panel session featuring Kate Forbes, Minister for Public Finance and Digital Economy; Jamie Hepburn, Minister for Business, Fair Work and Skills; and Paul Wheelhouse, Minister for Energy, Connectivity and the Islands followed. They tackled the issues facing Scotland and its transition to becoming a net zero economy.

After lunch, Mr Singh chaired a question and answer session with Derek Mackay, Cabinet Secretary for Finance, Economy and Fair Work. He confirmed that the Scottish Government will focus on interventions to support economic growth as well as responding to the “climate emergency”, which was announced by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon earlier in the year. He said that plans for decarbonising the railways by 2035 was a “huge opportunity” for Scotland. In summation, Mr. Singh concluded that climate challenge was the issue of our generation and collaboration between public and private sector would be critical to achieving sustainable long-terms solutions.

Ms Forbes highlighted that economic development was often pitted against environmental concerns and said there was a need to recognise there are opportunities in transitioning to net zero. She said there were fewer areas that will benefit more than the digital sector, because it is both an enabler of the transition as well as being a source of growth. Mr Wheelhouse called for an “intelligent debate” on approaches

Mr Singh closed the event thanking business attendees and the Scottish Government Ministers for their participation in an informative day. In his closing remarks, he stated SCC’s leadership role in convening businesspeople with policymakers and Ministers from all political parties to foster a sense of collaboration as we all seek to foster economic growth and create jobs in business communities across Scotland.

If you think cyber security is expensive You’re wrong! If you run business in the UK and use any kind of technology, you are at risk from a cyber-attack. This is a fact. I’m not scare mongering and there is lots of supporting evidence to support my statement. One of which is the recent report from Hiscox the insurer that found 55% of UK business had faced an attack in 2019, up 40% from last year. Hiscox also said a lot of businesses “incorrectly felt that they weren’t at risk”. And this for me lies at the crux of why UK companies continue to be targeted every day. I find a disconnect between business owners understanding the importance of cyber security threats and their appetite to invest in measures to protect against them. I think it’s understandable from the perspective that these measures have a financial impact on the business and as such need a level of due diligence. But I think cyber security controls should be an intrinsic part of your business operating model and the good news is you don’t have to do a lot to minimise the impact from some of the most common techniques used by hackers. Everyday UK companies continue to be targeted and the loss to the UK economy is significant. So much so that the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) the government department established to protect UK PLC from cyber-attacks developed a cyber certification for business. The certification called Cyber Essentials is designed to be low cost, low impact and help companies protect themselves from the most common attack techniques. Cyber essentials is also

mandatory for organisation working within the government supply chain. Primarily as we have seen hackers move across the supply chain to reach their primary target such as recently with Airbus (Link). So, if you think your not at risk, consider who in your supply chain maybe. Cyber essentials is a great starting point for any company especially small and medium companies which is its primary audience. But adoption remains slow and I’m unclear why? On its own, the submission is £300 for your company to become certified. You can do this yourself, it’s a self-submission process and within a few days you can have a certificate and logo to share with your current and future customers. If you’re not confident to complete the submission and need advice. The analogy I use hear is like writing a will. Anybody can write their own will, but it is not my area of expertise and the impact if I misinterpret something could be significant. Typically, depending on your organisation this can cost vary between £600 to £1500 per organisation. It is really important to note, the objective of cyber essentials is that you understand the risks to your business and have documented and treated those risks within your company’s risk appetite. Cyber security is not all about investing in technology it’s also about people and processes in equal measures. An example is training your staff to recognise the signs of fraudulent emails and having a process that ensures any invoices are validated before being paid is a good example of how this does not require technology. Another example is setting

For more information visit www.macyberuk.com or contact mo@macyberuk.co.uk

some time to work through a cyber response plan. The NCSC website provides some great free material that walks you through how to develop, run and document your cyber response plan. This can significantly reduce the impact on you from a cyber attack and again can be done at a low cost.

Mo Ahddoud Interim CISO / Security Consultant / Board Advisor

Mo Ahddoud is the managing director of MA Consulting Ltd a cyber security consultancy focussed on helping companies protect themselves against cyber threats. He is a security expert who last served as the Chief Information Security Officer at SGN, which manages and operates over 74,000 km of gas mains and services in Scotland and the south of England. Prior to coming to SGN, Mo acted as the International IT Security Lead at NBC Universal. His professional history also includes leading companies like IBM, BAE Systems, and a ten-year tenure as an officer in the British Army. His depth and variety of experience across public and private sectors gives him a unique insight into all angles of cybersecurity

BUSINESS PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

Virgin Trains uniforms put to good use to help homeless people – and their dogs The Train Operator donates blankets, scarves and dog coats which have been made from old staff uniforms to homeless charities. Change Please have used profits generated from their contract with Virgin Trains to recruit more people who have experienced homelessness to be baristas. Both organisations are working together to develop successful trainees and offer them a chance to use their new skills in further or new employment with the train operator.

Garments which were originally coats, shell jackets, shirts, trousers and suits worn by Virgin Trains’ frontline have been given a new lease of life and will be distributed to those living on the streets in time for the winter months. The upcycled clothes – many of which are in Virgin Train’s signature colour of red – were transformed by prisoners at HMP Northumberland at their onsite textile factory. Items will either be distributed by Virgin Staff at London Euston, Birmingham New Street, Manchester Piccadilly, Liverpool Lime Street and Glasgow Central or will go to local charities to give to the homeless.

Some branded dog coats with the Virgin Trains logo will be given to staff in return for a donation – with the profits going to charity.

Other items of clothing which could not be made into blankets have been used to make unbranded dog coats which will also be given out to those homeless people with four legged friends.

The remainder of the clothes – which are more than six years old - will be donated to charity or later recycled. This initiative follows on from Virgin Trains recent partnership with Change Please Coffee.

Jo Buckley, Community Manager at Virgin Trains: “We set ourselves the challenge to be creative and socially responsible with disposing of these old uniforms. It’s also a smart and socially responsible way to handle our waste. “It’s so rewarding to see the repurposed uniform benefitting those who really need a little warmth and comfort during the winter months and we’re so proud to play a small part in helping the homeless alongside our work with our partners Change Please Coffee.”

We set ourselves the challenge to be creative and socially responsible with disposing of these old uniforms. It’s also a smart and socially responsible way to handle our waste. Business Scotland

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BUSINESS PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

Landing in Scotland: Heathrow Business Summit 2019 Over 290 appointments were made by SME’s to meet with Heathrow’s key suppliers In October, the Scottish Chambers of Commerce were delighted to attend and support the Scottish leg of the Heathrow Business Summit. The annual summits allow businesses the opportunity to access and create lasting connections with Heathrow’s suppliers as well as hear from Heathrow’s partners during the breakfast networking session and meet other like-minded businesses. Delegates met with key members of Heathrow’s supply chain including companies such as Balfour Beatty, Babcock, Mott MacDonald, Beumer Group and Wilson James. The day began with a series of speeches including Ross Baker, Chief Commercial Officer for Heathrow and Charandeep Singh, Deputy Chief Executive of Scottish Chambers of Commerce. Following this, delegates were given the opportunity to network over breakfast before attending appointment sessions with supply

chain members, representing a variety of sectors. Throughout the day there were over 290 appointments made by SME’s to meet with 21 members of Heathrow’s suppliers. Heathrow’s Chief Commercial Officer Ross Baker said: “We are proud to be back in Scotland, a nation with thriving construction and tourism sectors that will help us to successfully build a third runway at Heathrow. This Summit further demonstrates our commitment to providing Scotland with thousands of new jobs, one of the first Heathrow off-site Logistics Hubs and numerous new investment opportunities with expansion. “We remain focused on honouring the commitments within our MoU with the Scottish Government and look forward to seeing more Scottish businesses make their mark at Heathrow, by securing work with the expansion programme.” Scottish Chambers of Commerce Deputy Chief Executive Charandeep Singh said:

“The Scottish Chambers of Commerce Network are a proud and active partner of the Heathrow Business Summit. As well as supporting Scottish businesses to capture the commercial opportunities from the third Runway, we have always been a vocal business network when it comes to improving, enhancing and increasing Scotland’s international connectivity. The expansion will act as an economic catalyst – one that will connect our people and businesses with trade and travel opportunities across the UK and the globe. “The Heathrow Business Summit is more than just an event – it’s about paving the way for an economic legacy that Scotland and the UK can capitalise on for years to come.” Heathrow’s Business Summit has grown from ten last year to eleven events this year, putting Heathrow well on track to deliver on its commitment to establish Summits in all 12 regions of the UK by 2025. Contact sdivers@scottishchambers.org.uk to register for any future supply chain events.

We are proud to be back in Scotland, a nation with thriving construction and tourism sectors that will help us to successfully build a third runway at Heathrow. Ross Baker, Heathrow’s Chief Commercial Officer

Business Scotland

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MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

ROCCO Awards 2019 Renfrewshire Chamber is delighted to announce the 2019 shortlist for their annual business awards, the ROCCO’s. Now in their 16th Year, the ROCCOs are the premier business event in Renfrewshire. 17 winners will be announced at the ceremony hosted by ROCCO regular Fred MacAulay (15th November at the Normandy Hotel in Renfrew). Returning as Main Sponsor is Paisley.is, the destination brand and website promoting Renfrewshire to the world. Commenting on the awards – Chamber chief executive Bob Grant said “thank you to all the organisations that entered, this year we have seen a record number of over 100 entries. As always the standard of entry was high so I know many people that are not shortlisted will be disappointed – we hope you will consider entering again next year. 15 of the 17 awards will require the shortlisted organisations to present to our judging panels w/c 21st Oct at the Chamber Business Centre, Glasgow Airport.” Top 5 voting will open soon online with the Paisley Daily Express. The company with the most votes by 25th of October will be crowned the winner and announced on the night. #2019Rocco www.roccoawards.com

Business Scotland

The 2019 Categories Award for Excellence in Customer Services sponsored by the Scottish Leather Group Award for Developing the Young Workforce West – sponsored by Developing the Young Workforce (West) Award for Innovation & Technology – sponsored by Creation IP Award for Excellence in Manufacturing – sponsored by the Advanced Forming Research Centre Award for International Trade – sponsored by Glasgow Airport Invest in Renfrewshire Award – sponsored by Invest in Renfrewshire / Renfrewshire Council Award for Most Promising New Business – sponsored by Renfrewshire Council Award for Excellence in Tourism – sponsored by Paisley Is Award for Family Business of the Year – sponsored by the Malcolm Group

Award for Young Business Person of the Year – sponsored by Rolls-Royce Award for Employer of the Year – sponsored by West College Scotland Award for Community Champion of the Year – sponsored by Engage Renfrewshire & Royal Bank of Scotland Award for Outstanding Business <=5 FTE staff – sponsored by intu Braehead Award for Outstanding Business >5 & <25 staff – sponsored by Renfrewshire Council Award for Outstanding Business >25 staff – sponsored by Terumo Aortic Award for Business Leader of the Year – sponsored by Diageo Award for Renfrewshire’s Favourite Business – sponsored by the Paisley Daily Express

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Largest UK leather manufacturer confirms plans to expand in Renfrewshire and pledges 9000 new jobs Confirmation that the UK’s largest leather manufacturer will open a new facility in Renfrewshire is being hailed as ‘the first step’ in ambitious growth plans to add more than 9000 jobs to the local economy by 2030. Scottish Leather Group employ more than 800 people at its Bridge of Weir, Paisley and Glasgow sites and have confirmed they are opening a new Paisley hub by autumn 2020, creating 100 skilled jobs to provide high-end car seat upholstery. This comes as Renfrewshire business leaders set out the strategy to grow the local economy and seize on £1.4billion being invested in infrastructure, innovation and skills across the region. Around 100 guests gathered at Abbey Mill Business Centre for the official launch of Renfrewshire’s Economic Strategy 20202030. Its development has been led by the Renfrewshire’s Economic Leadership Panel, which draws together leaders from across the private and public sector, Renfrewshire Chamber, enterprise agencies and education and skills experts. Alongside the jobs pledge, the strategy aims to increase GVA by £400million a year and expand Renfrewshire’s manufacturing sector by 30%. Plans are also in place to grow the working age population by 5000 people and reduce economic inactivity by 15%, bringing 3000 local people into the workforce, while

Renfrewshire businesses will benefit from actions to reduce skills gaps and shortages.

further with this important new facility in Paisley.

Derek Mackay, Scottish Government Cabinet Secretary for Finance, Economy and Fair Work said: “Scotland is an attractive place to do business with. The fact that we have a skilled workforce and companies like Scottish Leather Group expanding their operations is testament to this. I welcome the publication of Renfrewshire’s Economic Strategy which will help develop the local economy further.”

“These jobs are an important first step in our ambitions for Renfrewshire. Renfrewshire’s Economic Strategy is the culmination of close partnership working between the private and public sector and achieving its ambitious aims will require our continued collaboration, drive and passion.”

Scottish Leather Group Director James Lang, Chair of Renfrewshire’s Economic Leadership Panel, said: “Renfrewshire offers the perfect environment for businesses to flourish and we are delighted to be expanding our Renfrewshire operation

Renfrewshire Council Leader Iain Nicolson said: “I am confident we will deliver a thriving Renfrewshire and we are already making great progress. Guided by this strategy and through the private and public sector working together, we will achieve a strong and inclusive economy, bringing more people into work with more secure earnings and greater earning power.”

Renfrewshire offers the perfect environment for businesses to flourish and we are delighted to be expanding our Renfrewshire operation further with this important new facility in Paisley. Business Scotland

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Scottish Government Cabinet Secretary for Finance, Economy and Fair Work Derek Mackay; Scottish Enterprise Chief Executive Steve Dunlop and Renfrewshire’s Provost Lorraine Cameron joined by Inchinnan Primary School pupils Maya Jones and Scott Miller to mark work starting on developing the Advanced manufacturing Innovation District Scotland.

Work starts on Scotland’s advanced manufacturing innovation district Spades have hit the ground on a major manufacturing district next to Glasgow Airport which is set to create thousands of new jobs in Renfrewshire. Renfrewshire Council is leading development of the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District Scotland – known as AMIDS – in partnership with Scottish Government and Scottish Enterprise. The completed district is estimated to create up to 6000 jobs and boost Scotland’s manufacturing sector by £535million in GVA a year. A 52-hectare campus at the heart of the district will house companies harnessing new technologies and accessing cutting edge research. It offers 1.6million square feet of available floor space and is confirmed as the location for the National Manufacturing Institute Scotland and the Medicines Manufacturing Innovation Centre. Work has now started on constructing the enabling infrastructure, which includes

Business Scotland

new roads, bridges, cycling routes and pedestrian walkways, funded through the £1.13 billion Glasgow City Region City Deal, jointly funded by the UK and Scottish governments. Derek Mackay, Scottish Government Cabinet Secretary for Finance, Economy and Fair Work said: “I am delighted to celebrate work starting on the new Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District Scotland (AMIDS). Manufacturing is vitally important to the Scottish economy and AMIDS, and the companies it will attract, will help realise our ambitions for Scotland to become a global leader in advanced manufacturing.” UK Government Minister for Scotland Colin Clark said: “I want to see the Glasgow City Region thrive as a powerhouse of economic growth. It’s vital that we invest in the skills, industries and infrastructure

that will help businesses create highpaying jobs for the future.” Renfrewshire’s Provost Lorraine Cameron said: “The Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District Scotland will provide fantastic employment opportunities and support companies of all shapes and sizes to prosper. Its success will be built on close collaboration and cooperation. “We know that from great connectivity to a highly-skilled workforce, we have the right ingredients in Renfrewshire to deliver on its amazing potential and place Renfrewshire at the beating heart of Scottish manufacturing. I am personally very proud that new products for a new world will be made in Renfrewshire.” The enabling works are scheduled for completion in early 2021 and will also strengthen connections to nearby Westway and Inchinnan Business Parks.

BEGBIES TRAYNOR

Why timely advice is key to saving an ailing company It’s never a popular subject but the ‘r’ word has been mentioned on both sides of the Atlantic in recent weeks. Whether we are heading for recession or not, the highly competitive nature and fast pace of modern business means that financial distress is never far away for many a business, regardless of economic cycles. As the UK market leader in volume of appointments, Begbies Traynor sees financial hardship across many sectors, regularly assisting directors, their accountants and other professional advisers through the restructuring maze. We operate in a rescue culture geared to support the struggling company, especially since the Enterprise Act was launched in 2003. Acts of misconduct aside, the stigma of failure has largely been removed and directors are encouraged to learn from their experience and try again. The entrepreneur is optimistic by nature, often running at 100mph on a wave of positivity. In good times it is still important to focus on both sides of the P&L rather than just sales which can mean cash being stretched and struggling to cope with volume at the expense of margin. In this respect, a strong FD performs a vital role, acting as the necessary financial brake to allow the entrepreneurial accelerator to hit the floor wherever possible. At the smaller end, the external accountant steps into this role as trusted advisor to a portfolio of clients. Despite such support, it can often be lonely at the top and no more so than when things go wrong! As with physical illness, early detection maximises the options available and the chances of recovery. Prevention is

of course better than cure and catastrophic mistakes are best avoided. The good FD/ adviser should be able to support a client with the right expansion plan whilst guiding another gently away from the cliff edge.

pan out. For example, the potential CVA may fail, but the business subsequently salvaged through a pre-pack Administration, which is usually preferable to closure for creditors and other stakeholders.

Even the best laid plans can come unstuck or be derailed by unforeseen events, such as BSE, while businesses can be hit at any time from any angle with the loss of a major customer, key employee or supplier, bad debt, legislative change, competitor attack, large contract going wrong or macroeconomic factors . Others may simply find themselves in gradual long term decline and devoid of the ideas and energy to reverse things. In such circumstances, specialist advice from a restructuring and insolvency expert will be required. An initial consultation is free so there is little to lose, even if just to provide peace of mind.

A final word of caution: restructuring typically comes at a cost and may require additional finance to be raised - a scarce resource under the circumstances. There is generally only one bite at restructuring and there are few things more frustrating than to meet the directors after the bird has flown, knowing that so much more could have been done just a few months earlier.

Historically, Insolvency Practitioners were fond of citing poor management as the main reason for business failure. Whilst it can obviously be a factor, this seems trite and particularly harsh in today’s fast moving environment. Operating in the world of hindsight means we have a good understanding of the pitfalls but this does not blind us to the skill and courage it takes to set up a business in the first place and be out there battling on a daily basis. Where criticism does begin to bite is in failing to react to events, seek advice or act upon it once received.

For a free, no obligation consultation, please contact:

While the terms ‘restructuring’, ‘CVA’, ‘prepack’, ‘liquidation’ and ‘administration’ will be familiar to many, a little knowledge is a dangerous thing and one missing piece of the information jigsaw can distort the picture completely. Various options can be considered concurrently, with plan B or C held in reserve depending on how things

So, as always, the mantra is clear. Take advice early and consider all options as quickly as possible, monitoring the position whilst events unfold and variables become clearer. Finally, be prepared to take immediate and incisive action if required.

Aberdeen: Thomas McKay or Simon Watson T: 01224 619 354 Edinburgh: Adam Southard or Ken Pattullo T: 0131 222 9060 Dundee: Ken Pattullo T: 01382 313 600 Glasgow: Kenny Craig or Thomas McKay T: 0141 222 2230 Inverness: Thomas McKay or Simon Watson T: 0146 364 2851

Business Scotland

CHAMBER SPOTLIGHT

Immerse yourself in new ideas during Lochaber Ideas Week 2019 From 18 to 22 November 2019 Lochaber Chamber of Commerce once again presents its flagship week of events to inspire, educate and motivate the business and wider community of Lochaber and the Highlands; bringing everyone together to focus on and celebrate the power of ideas. The 2019 Lochaber Ideas Week programme is an action-packed week of workshops, stimulating discussions, lively networking events and inspiring talks, all held in Fort William and across the region. It features some fascinating people with inspirational stories; invaluable business skills training; vital business debates, together with action-orientated discussions hitting on today’s critical cultural and social issues. As well as partnering with organisations across the Highlands to offer exclusive opportunities to promote business growth, the 2019 programme also includes a special reimagined tourism day in Glencoe. The 2018 Lochaber Ideas Week was the busiest yet, with over 1,000 people taking part in a wide range of seminars, workshops and talks. CEO of Lochaber Chamber of Commerce, Frazer Coupland, reflected on its success; whilst looking forward to this year’s exciting programme: “As we launch our sixth

Business Scotland

annual Lochaber Ideas Week, it is exciting to see how the week has grown and evolved to become a cornerstone of the Chamber’s work that is deeply engaged and owned by our community. We believe that events like this can be a catalyst for positive economic and social change and will therefore help to build a better-connected community. “Lochaber Ideas Week is all about inspiration and creativity in business. It’s a week of events offering everyone the opportunity to think about the big picture and make connections as well as learn new business skills. It’s open to the entire community and we’re delighted that so many people come along and get involved. We’re proud to be able to bring such a unique and inspiring range of events to Lochaber.” Highlights of this year’s Lochaber Ideas Week include Lord David Steel delivering the prestigious Charles Kennedy Lecture; Stephen Leckie, chair of the Scottish

Tourism Alliance and Cat Leaver of Brand Scotland giving businesses expert insights into key visitor trends at the Lochaber Tourism Summit; team-building strategies from Olympian and former diplomat Cath Bishop, and our first-ever Net Zero Business environmental seminar focusing on practical ways businesses can address the climate emergency. There’s so much going on – it’s open to everyone – you don’t have to be a Chamber member or be based in Lochaber – it’s a chance for people from across the Highlands to get together to immerse themselves in great ideas! To find out more about all the events taking place during Lochaber Ideas Week, to book tickets, go to www.lochaberchamber.co.uk/ events/lochaber-ideas-week-2019 Or call 01397 705 765 to chat to a member of the team.

CHAMBER SPOTLIGHT

Lord David Steel will deliver this year’s Charles Kennedy Lecture, the annual lecture set up in memory of the former Liberal Democrat leader and long-serving Lochaber MP.

Image © Iain Black Photography

Lochaber Ideas Week 2019 programme highlights include: Monday 18 November

Tuesday 19 November

Wednesday 20 November

Thursday 21 November

Friday 22 November

Russell Jones will entertain the audience with a lively motivational talk based on his experience of making the huge life change from renowned Kingussie shinty player to globecrossing long-distance cyclist. Russell’s humour, attitude and tales of adventure around the world guarantee an uplifting and inspiring evening.

The fast-paced and incredibly popular ‘Around Lochaber in 80 Tables’ speednetworking event. Last year’s event led to some new collaborative business ventures as well as offering a fun and effective way to make direct business to business connections.

Lochaber Ideas Week’s first-ever Women in Business networking lunch, with special guest speaker, Sarah Heward, owner of the Real Food Cafe, Tyndrum. Sarah is a truly inspirational business woman who turned a derelict ‘Little Chef’ in Tyndrum into a thriving and innovative fast-food eatery, with a strong ethical and environmental focus.

The 2019 Tourism Summit hosted by the stunningly refurbished Kingshouse Hotel, Glencoe, where big names from the industry will consider the hot tourism topics of today and future trends for Lochaber and beyond. Mountain biker and brand ambassador Hannah Barnes and renowned visual content creator Brodie Hood will demonstrate how to use social media to best effect to connect with your audience; Mike Dennison from Sustrans will discuss the huge opportunities for cycle tourism; Stephen Leckie (CEO of Crieff Hydro group of hotels and Chair of the Scottish Tourism Alliance) will inspire attendees with his vision for tourism and doing things the independent way; and Cat Leaver, Director of newly created ‘Brand Scotland’, will give delegates an insight into the new Scottish strategy for success.

Leadership coach Don MacNaughton will lead a motivational seminar on getting the most from your teams and yourself.

Business Skills Seminars - In the morning session John Paul Hughes, the guru of creativity in business, will encourage attendees to ‘think different’ in our approach to all areas of our work. In the afternoon former top-level international rower and diplomat, Cath Bishop, will draw on her experiences in elite sport and international relations to lead a special session on ‘practical strategies’ for improving performance and creating strong teams.

Taking its cue from the climate challenge facing us all, Lochaber Chamber of Commerce is hosting an important workshop for all businesses on ‘Net Zero Business’, featuring a range of contributors from industry and environmental backgrounds to discuss and tackle the challenges and imperative of becoming a zero-carbon economy. Question Time - a lively evening of debate when a diverse panel from business, community and politics will face wide-ranging Q & A from members of the Lochaber public.

Lord David Steel will deliver this year’s Charles Kennedy Lecture, the annual lecture set up in memory of the former Liberal Democrat leader and long-serving Lochaber MP. Lord Steel, himself a former leader of the Liberal Democrats and long-serving MP with a very distinguished career in politics and public service, follows in the esteemed footsteps of Baron Jim Wallace, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, Lord Thurso and Alastair Campbell as guest speaker.

The week is rounded off by the Lochaber Ideas Week Gala Dinner, hosted by VisitScotland’s Riddell Graham, at the Moorings Hotel, Fort William. This year’s after-dinner speaker is inspirational entrepreneur Mike Stevenson, whose journey from a life on the streets to successful entrepreneur is as riveting as it is inspiring and uplifting.

Business Scotland

IP for my Business When: 27 November 2019 From: 13:00 – 16:00 Where: Waldorf Astoria – The Caledonian Princes Street, Edinburgh, EH1 2AB

Buffet lunch provided from 13:00 to 13:30 Seminar covering various IP topics and open discussion from 13:30 to 16:00 Please email events@maucherjenkins.com or visit eventbrite and search for ‘Intellectual Property for my Business’ to register Please visit us at www.maucherjenkins.com

MAUCHER JENKINS

Innovation thrives in Scotland Over recent years there has been a large growth in life sciences innovation within Scotland such that Scotland now has one of the largest collections of life sciences and medtech companies within Europe. While traditionally London has been a base for life sciences companies, recent times have seen the growth of start-ups headquartered outside of London. With high property prices and cost of living, London is an expensive choice for a young company needing to make every penny count. Scotland provides an excellent alternative to London in the development of life sciences companies. The life sciences industry in Scotland employs around 40,000 people and comprises an estimated 770 companies or organisations. Businesses operating in the industry are known to contribute over £5.2 billion turnover and add about £2.4 billion gross value to Scotland’s economy. The life sciences industry within Scotland has grown at around 7% per year since 2010 and, with continued investment, it is expected that the number of these companies will continue to grow. Some factors that have led to the growth of start-up companies in Scotland are provided below: Scotland has a strong research and development background in the areas of life sciences and medicine. Over recent years, Scottish universities have placed importance on promoting innovation, encouraging academics and entrepreneurs to develop their ideas. This has often led to the commercialisation of these ideas and the creation of start-up companies. Scotland is home to a range of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that are experienced in the creation and growth of start-up companies.

A number of innovation centres have been established in the areas of stratified medicine, sensors, digital health, industrial biotechnology and aquaculture to assist in the creation and commercialisation of ideas. Companies can obtain business support from enterprise agencies such as Scottish Enterprise, Scottish Development International and Highlands and Islands Enterprise. Scotland has a well-established investment network, and in recent years there has been an increase in international venture capital. Investment from industry has increased and the NHS has often provided opportunities for collaboration with companies to assist in development of their ideas. Since start-ups are often associated with a university they tend to be based in Scotland’s cities. The following cities comprise the following approximate numbers of life sciences start-up companies: Edinburgh (88), Glasgow (70), Aberdeen (25), and Dundee (19). Scotland also has a number of start-up hubs that provide support and encouragement to start-up companies. Some examples of these start-up hubs are the Edinburgh BioQuarter, the Roslin Innovation Centre, Biocity Scotland, the Dundee Drug Discovery Unit, Queen Elizabeth University Hospital and Inverness Campus. There is also a plan to create a new UK innovation centre known as the Medicines Manufacturing Innovation Centre near

Glasgow. Around £56 million has already been invested in the development of this centre. As the growth of the life sciences industry in Scotland increases, it will be important for companies to think about how they can protect the innovations that arise from their business. At Maucher Jenkins we provide a comprehensive service in the protection, maintenance and enforcement of Intellectual Property (IP) assets in a range of sectors including life sciences, industrial biotechnology, medical technologies and devices, digital health and pharma. We understand the needs of companies of all sizes, from individuals to small startup companies and entrepreneurs to large multi-national companies, and the importance of providing good IP advice to companies to assist in the development and commercialisation of their products. In particular, we have experience of advising start-up companies and entrepreneurs as they start their innovation journeys and structure our costs to meet the needs of these companies, understanding the financial constraints that may apply. We also offer an IP audit service to companies which can be useful when speaking to potential investors. For further information, please contact Reuben Jacob or Fiona Kellas. References: www.lifesciencesscotland.com/advantages/ vibrant-diverse-growing-company-base www.sdi.co.uk/key-sectors/life-sciencesand-biotech

Business Scotland

DEWARS ABERFELDY DISTILLERY

Dewar’s new online shop is open for business Scotch brand DEWAR’S® has responded to increased interest in its whisky range by UK consumers by launching a new online shop based at Five Star distillery visitor attraction Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery. The distillery already stocks a wide range from the DEWAR’S® portfolio onsite, and its new website offers delivery throughout the UK. Stocking a wide range of DEWAR’S® blended Scotch whisky, along with a collection of the distiller’s malts, including ABERFELDY® and CRAIGELLACHIE®, the distillery claims to offer whiskies for every taste and budget, from a bottle of ‘double-aged’ Dewar’s WHITE LABEL® at £20, to a limited 35-yearold edition of ROYAL BRACKLA®, a snip at £16,000. Early sales indicate an interest in rare bottlings, with distillery exclusive ABERFELDY 20 year old Exceptional Cask,

which has just claimed the overall ‘Bronze’ award at the Scottish Field Readers’ Challenge. Also generating significant interest is the engraving service available at the distillery, enabling a dedication for clients, friends or loved ones to be added to bottles. A selection of branded items completes the offering, many drawing on the wit and wisdom of famous forebear Tommy Dewar, with ‘Dewarisms’ like ‘The only thing you get in a hurry is trouble’ engraved upon locally made oak coasters or cask staves. Focused firmly on its successful export business, particularly to the USA, DEWAR’S has enjoyed a more niche profile within the UK, but the distiller’s playful marketing activations in major UK cities have seen a renewed interest from UK consumers, with online searches rising from 28,000 to

53,000 in the past two years. Considered the ideal base from which to satisfy consumers’ curiosity, Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery has itself experienced a rising profile recently. The attraction was judged Scotland’s ‘Best Visitor Attraction’ in 2018 and recently opened its ‘Secret Bar’ to private events. “We are delighted to announce the launch of this new venture,” says UK Brand Homes General Manager Jay Basson. “We see a fantastic response to our whiskies onsite here every day, so it’s exciting that we’re now able to deliver them to peoples’ homes nationwide.” Shop.Dewars.com is now open. Delivery is available within the UK only. Business Scotland has secured a special reader offer. Use the code ‘BUSINESS1’ for free engraving on your bottle (usually £5).

Find perfectly personal gifts gifts for colleagues, clients or friends

Ask a Theatre team member for your exclusive -30% online discount code for the Aberfeldy, Cask Tasting & Chocolate Tours

Visit our NEW online store for a superb range of single malts, blended Scotch whiskies, and unique whisky-inspired gifts.We can engrave your bottle onsite with a personal dedication, making it the ideal thoughtful corporate gift. Visit SHOP.DEWARS.COM, or turn oﬀ the A9 and pop into our beautiful distillery.

www.DewarsAberfeldyDistillery.com

#HomeofDewars

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PH15 2EB

Shop.Dewars.com

CCA RECRUITMENT

Achieving successful recruitment Striking a balance in business can be difficult. During a recruitment drive, a number of factors need to be considered.

Debbie Wilson

Director, CCA Recruitment Group

Every business approaches recruitment differently, but as the market shifts, businesses must consider their route to attracting and retaining top talent. At CCA Recruitment Group, we represent the contact centre functions of industry-leading organisations across multiple areas and whilst the key drivers for recruitment vary, the fundamental challenges are very similar. We’ve found some employers are struggling to both fill jobs and to retain their existing employees. There are straightforward steps you can take, however, that will make your recruitment and retention of employees more successful.

Your recruitment drive

Building a consensus within the business about what you’re trying to achieve, before beginning your recruitment drive is crucial. So first, establish that your internal stakeholders, especially those involved in recruitment, understand what you’re trying to achieve and why. Consider the challenges being addressed through further recruitment and establish if you all share the same motivations and reasons for wanting to increase the size of your team. Reconciling ‘expectations’ with ‘reality’ can be challenging, so we encourage our clients to be open and consistent from the start. Also, establish what you are looking for in a potential employee, being mindful of the fact

that although skills can be taught, shared values are something you should look for from the outset. Additionally, candidate behaviours are critical particularly in the contact centre industry – we believe that each facet should be assessed in order to identify suitability.

Employee engagement

When you are working with an external recruitment partner, they must understand both the needs of the business and your reasons for recruiting.

A good induction experience and a comprehensive employee development programme will help your employees to meet their objectives, thereby helping the business and having a positive impact on employee retention too.

Talent acquisition and retention

Several factors influence the attraction and retention of top talent. A good overall benefits package, excellent working conditions, an interesting role and the potential for career progression all make a difference, however, one of the things I would also ask a business is “why should someone join your business and why would you move jobs?” We’ve found that many candidates seek long term career prospects, rather the seasonal employment with which call centre work is sometimes associated, and are looking for employers who offer a clear career path. However, there are some factors which prospective employees rate above material gain and shared values are chief amongst them. Having shared values and a shared sense of purpose, beyond making money, helps drive people and companies. Candidates want employers who are fair, consistent and open with regards to communication, especially when it comes to operational information. Employees would much rather be given honest answers, even when they are negative and we’ve found that especially at challenging times, company transparency is vital in achieving employee retention.

Your employees are integral to the success of the organisation. Keeping people at the heart of your business, engaging with them and supporting their growth is fundamental to business success.

Workplace innovation also plays a part and it’s not just about technology - giving people the space, time and the tools to drive the business forward is another factor. Rewarding people appropriately for their role and delivery within the business is also important when it comes to employee retention. Recognising and valuing your employees’ contribution will go a long way to building company loyalty and retaining your employees.

Think long term At CCA Recruitment Group, we encourage our clients to be brave and base their management decisions on a long-term company philosophy, even at the expense of short-term financial goals. We find that in the current market it’s evident that both candidates and existing employees need a reason to be with you and to work with you for the long term. Debbie Wilson - Director - CCA Recruitment Group debbie@ccarecruitment.com www.ccarecruitment.com

Business Scotland

BUSINESS PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

Securing the future through sustainable tourism

In a time of climate emergeny it is vital that we all take a serious look at how we make our businesses more sustainable.

By Malcolm Roughead OBE Chief Executive, VisitScotland

VisitScotland, as the National Tourism Organisation for Scotland, focuses on promoting our country as a sustainable tourism destination. Tourism is worth ÂŁ11 billion to the Scottish economy each year and supports 206,000 jobs across the country. We believe that by investing in the future of Scotland as a world-class, year-round destination we are enabling the sustainability of Scotlandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s economy, communities and environment. In line with the Scottish Government declaring a climate emergency and the 2019 Programme for Government, we are looking at the actions we can take as an organisation and industry leader to reduce the impact of tourism on climate change

Business Scotland

and also ensure that the growth in tourism does not negatively impact on the lives of communities, or the visitor experience.

in particular are more knowledgeable and are pro-actively making purchasing choices based on environmental and ethical factors.

A number of national tourism organisations are starting to feel pressure from stakeholders, communities and the media to demonstrate actions to respond to the need for more sustainable growth

It is also important to ensure tourism makes a positive contribution to the communities in which it operates, and reducing climate change impacts and building resilience, is

Reputational benefit

There is significant reputational benefit and opportunity in being recognised as a leader in sustainable tourism development. VisitScotland, has a key role to play, not only to integrate sustainability and low carbon principles into all our activities, but to also influence improvements in the visitor economy across Scotland. This is an investment in the future of Scotland as a successful and sustainable destination. There is a growing expectation that destinations and tourism businesses do more to safeguard the environment and communities. There is a clear reputational risk if we are not doing so. Younger people

Scotlandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tourism industry is well aware of the balance required between tourism and fragile environments. Visiting these environments are a key part of any trip to Scotland for our visitors.

BUSINESS PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

Photo Credits Kenny Lam and Visit Scotland

one important aspect of ensuring tourism’s positive reputation. This will also contribute to the place-based approach of developing Scottish communities, improving the lives of people, supporting inclusive growth and creating more successful places.

Fragile environments

Scotland’s tourism industry is well aware of the balance required between tourism and fragile environments. Visiting these environments are a key part of any trip to Scotland for our visitors. By working together Scotland’s industry, agencies and environmental partners are tackling the issues emerging from a rise in tourism and pressures in some areas at some points in the year. An example of a very successful project is the Rural Tourism Infrastructure Fund, which was started with £6 million from the Scottish Government. Some 30 projects have been awarded funding to provide improved walking paths, car parks with EV charging points and toilets. This funding will help to reduce the potential of negative impacts of tourism on communities and on the local environment. RTIF is set to continue through 2020 with a further fund of £3 million. There is also an opportunity to educate visitors on the need for responsible behaviour. In 2020 Scotland will celebrate a year dedicated to our coasts and waters.

The promotion of responsible enjoyment is central to the year.

reduce it whilst still enjoying the very best on offer here in Scotland.

Sustainable travel patterns

Tourism can lead

Travelling to Scotland from within the UK on surface transport is something VisitScotland actively promotes. By working with rail and ferry operators, visitors are encouraged to consider all possible routes to and then around Scotland. Included in the latter is active travel, allowing visitors to experience the very best of Scotland on foot, by bike or by paddle.

Sustainability is another area where tourism is on the frontline and has a positive contribution to make. We can help shape and lead the debate and deliver ways of working that will ensure Scotland is enjoyed as a tourism destination by generations of visitors to come. www.visitscotland.com

There is an opportunity here to help our visitors understand the end-to-end impact of their trip and encourage them to find ways to

Business Scotland

Kevin Boyd Managing Director, Scotland

Success Stories Selected transactions from the past year.

Cadherent Ltd

Engineering design and visualisation services COMMERCIAL MORTGAGE AND WORKING CAPITAL FACILITY

GT4 Group

Label Manufacturers FUNDING GROWTH

0330 123 1740 ScotlandRBC@shawbrook.co.uk

We've been working with clients, their advisers and sponsors to provide funding for a variety of great businesses across Scotland. From our Business Centre in Glasgow we're able to deliver the support that we believe matters most: sector specialists who can speak the language of your industry; a deep knowledge of the local market; and a more human approach to decision making, which doesn’t rely solely on anonymous scorecards. So if you’re looking to work with specialists who understand every business has its own unique story, I'm pretty sure we can help.

Asset Alliance Group

Borders Distillery

Commercial Vehicle Provider FUNDING GROWTH

Whisky Producer ASSET FINANCE AND WORKING CAPITAL FACILITY

Monarch Transport Ltd

Renfrewshire Electronics Ltd

Road Haulage Services DEBT AND CASH FLOW FACILITY

Technology and Management Solutions Supply Chain REFINANCE AND WORKING CAPITAL FACILITY

LEONARD CURTIS BUSINESS SOLUTIONS GROUP

Stay on your toes with cash flow and future finance needs in order to manage Brexit uncertainty Michelle Elliot, Director at Leonard Curtis Business Solutions Group in Glasgow, looks at what SMEs can do to help make themselves more Brexit-proof. As is the case with many business situations, the eventual outcome of Brexit, deal or no deal, is too difficult to predict. However, what is clear is that the uncertainty surrounding the issue is impacting consumer confidence and business growth. This is particularly true in Scotland where the eventual outcome of Brexit may also lead to a second independence referendum. As at March 2018, there were around 343,535 SMEs operating in Scotland, providing an estimated 1.2 million jobs. SMEs accounted for 99.3% of all private sector businesses, 54.9% of private sector employment. The Scottish Fiscal Commission (SFC) forecast economic growth of 1.2% in 2019 and 1% per annum between 2020 and 2021. However, this growth is predicated on there being a smooth transition out of Europe. A disorderly Brexit could prompt a recession in the UK. A no deal Brexit could have an immediate adverse impact on business, particularly for SMEs who don’t have adequate contingency measures. Disruption has been widely predicted across many channels, from practical supply chain and logistics to migration, trading conditions, value of the pound and market confidence. Sectors in Scotland expected to be most vulnerable include financial services, manufacturing, food and drink, hospitality and leisure and agricultural and fishing - in short, some of the most important industries in the country.

Key actions for SMEs

Whilst it is impossible to prepare for all eventualities, how businesses ride out the economic uncertainty arising from Brexit will determine their success in the coming months and years. We have come up with some key tips to share for navigating the landscape ahead. Good quality management information Financial records are the backbone for all businesses. Good financial records are essential to understand whether the current business model is working and also to make decisions on future growth strategy. This is particularly relevant for Brexit where you need to be able to understand which areas of business will be most impacted. Cash is king Positive cash flow in a business is necessary to fund trading and growth. Prepare weekly cash flow forecasts to show what payments need to be made, and where the money

Michelle Elliot

is coming from. This will also assist in identifying any future funding requirements. Manage customer payments It’s good financial discipline to monitor customer payments, to ensure they are in line with invoicing terms and take a pro-active approach in chasing customers who pay late. Late payments continue to be a critically important issue for SMEs as smaller businesses are typically more dependent on cash flow than their larger counterparts, with smaller cash reserves and fewer options to fall back on. Open dialogue with creditors If struggling to pay liabilities of the business, consider engaging with creditors to agree a payment plan. Struggling businesses that we meet tend to have HMRC arrears. Opening dialogue with HMRC and seeking to agree a Time To Pay (TTP) Arrangement can reduce serious pressure on business owners. We have specialists in this field who can provide assistance. Seek external funding Having a funding facility in place that’s available when finances get tight or growth opportunities arise is a good contingency

plan. A fall in the pound post Brexit could result in a rise in inflation and the Bank of England increasing interest rates, making additional borrowing more expensive. So now is the time to consider whether funding is required. We specialise in finding the right solutions through our independent finance brokerage, Reach Commercial Finance. Get advice when necessary Whether it’s Brexit-led or other issues affecting business profitability and long-term sustainability, do not ignore the warning signs. Early intervention provides more options. We work across Scotland with SMEs experiencing financial difficulties to provide practical, straightforward advice. The key message to act early, know what the trigger would be for seeking advice - Brexit-related or otherwise - and don’t be afraid to seek advice from an expert. Contact us on 0141 212 2060 or email michelle.elliot@leonardcurtis.co.uk

www.lcbsg.co.uk

Business Scotland

We’re the bridging loan experts. Have a client who needs funds fast? Think of us. For decades, we’ve provided more than 59,000* personal and commercial bridging loans worth £5.9bn* – some in as little as two days. No matter how complex the case, we’ll work fast, apply a flexible, common-sense approach, putting you and your clients first.

Using short-term lending to secure that can’t-miss opportunity Planning is everything in business. But every now and then, an opportunity you hadn’t planned for comes out of the blue and it’s just too good to miss. But how do you move fast on a great opportunity if you don’t have the cash ready? Specialist lender Together has spent the last four decades helping businesses grow and thrive, with commercial loans and shortterm finance designed for the pace of modern commerce. They

At start-up “ Cash flow can be challenging when you’re just starting out, so short-term finance could help you get out of the planning phase and up-and-running quicker. Bridging loans can help with stock, infrastructure costs and general trading costs until the cash starts rolling in. And because you can borrow over 12 months – and in some instance can choose to make no monthly payments at all – it could be the ideal option to give you some financial breathing space in those tricky early days.”

particularly specialise in bridging loans – a great option if you can pay it back in the short-term – and use experienced underwriters, not tick boxes, to make a common-sense decision. Steven Clark, Together’s Regional Development Director for Scotland, works with business professionals to connect them – and their clients – to finance at various points of the business lifecycle, as he explains:

In a cashflow crisis “ When you’re waiting on a customer to pay their bill and you’ve got a big outlay on the horizon – like your tax bill – it can be incredibly stressful. Or perhaps you’ve landed a big order and need cash to buy raw materials or pay extra staff to get the job done. If you know the money’s coming and just need cash to plug the gap, a bridging loan could be the answer.”

To grow your business “ If you’re converting a building, you can find yourself in funding limbo because it’s partway between residential and commercial, and if there’s a spanner in the works you could run out of working cash. Short-term finance can help fund one-off costs and gaps between current and future value, and can be repaid when all that hard work pays off.”

Got big plans for your business? Give Steven a call on 0371 705 1605 or visit togethermoney.com/steven For professional intermediary use only. *Includes unregulated and regulated bridging loan applications over 34 years.

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TRANSFORMING BUSINESSES INTO GREATER THINGS In the competitive world of business today, there is a continuous need for companies to ‘move with the times’ to ensure forward success is maintained. This can often result in revisiting business strategy, looking into process efficiencies and ensuring the right people and systems are in place to achieve measurable improvements. Chasqui-Team specialises in business transformation working alongside companies to create and implement strategies for sustainable and profitable growth. From initial business audit right through to project management and roll out, we help businesses to understand their areas of opportunity and work to ensure all changes are implemented effectively with measurable results. Our team of skilled professionals have strong backgrounds in business transformation projects and bring together a wealth of knowledge and experience. They work hand-in-hand with your teams from start to finish to ensure understanding, relevance and quality throughout.

At Chasqui-Team we stand by our ‘4A Philosophy’

WE ASSESS

WE AGREE

STEP

WE ACTION

WE ADVISE

YOUR PARTNERS IN BUSINESS TRANSFORMATION T: +44 (0) 333 006 2507 E: enquiries@chasqui-team.com www.chasqui-team.com

AT CHASQUI-TEAM WE DON’T JUST SAY IT, WE DO IT.

Business Scotland

Audi on demand Book an Audi from 1-28 days. Whatever the occasion. Book at uk.audiondemand.com

Audi on demand. Book an Audi for your business. Agility. Flexibility. They may be the business buzzwords of the age. But that’s exactly what driving an Audi on demand for business gives you: access to a choice of premium, luxurious cars, without any of the associated fixed costs. Available at both Glasgow and Edinburgh Audi Centres, the Audi on demand concept is simple. A fleet of selected Audi models at your disposal, available to be booked and driven from 1 to 28 days. Being an on-demand service, the immediate benefit to the business driver is the absence of any kind of commitment. No tax worries; no maintenance costs; no long-term contracts.

Just the Audi you want, for the period you want. Whether you’re driving just for the day, the whole 28, or any number in between, everything is included in your fee: fully comprehensive insurance, unlimited mileage and 24-hour roadside assistance. There are no add-ons or hidden charges. That kind of certainty is matched by the flexibility of choice of cars available. From the compact A1 to the exhilarating A5 Cabriolet, every kind of need is catered for. You may need something practical with a large boot, like the A6 Avant, to carry items to a meeting.

If your team needs to come with you, there’s the luxurious, seven-seater Q7. Or, if you and a client are heading to the golf course, there’s the impressive S5 Sportback. The complete Audi on demand range is available to see online: just decide and book. The Audi you choose is the Audi you’ll get, guaranteed. And, because you’re likely to be busy, it can even be delivered to you free of charge, if you’re within 30 minutes’ drive of either Glasgow or Edinburgh Audi Centres. Agility and flexibility: when it comes to driving an Audi for business, Audi on demand certainly offers both.

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BUSINESS PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

ScotRail looks to the future Over 280 stations and depots across Scotland’s Railway have benefited from new, upgraded high definition CCTV equipment. In a move to further improve the safety and security of its customers and employees, ScotRail has upgraded its analogue CCTV camera system to a new digital hybrid system. The new system has seen ScotRail move from 220 scrolling CCTV monitors to a 24-screen intelligent video wall, which can analyse movements of customers on the platform to determine if members of the public are in unsafe situations, allowing ScotRail’s CCTV monitoring team to alert station staff if necessary. Everything from monitoring passenger numbers and behavioural analytics to carpark management can be controlled via the new camera units. Business Scotland

It’s hoped that the new equipment will help ScotRail identify vulnerable people and reduce fatalities on the railway, as well as crime. ScotRail has one of the largest CCTV networks in the UK, with over six thousand cameras monitoring over 350 stations, which the train operator remotely monitors from their two customer service centres in Paisley and Dunfermline, where they also answer calls from the station Help Points. The £2 million project is part of ongoing investment to improve Scotland’s Railway, and was funded through Network Rail’s Control Period 5 Scottish Network Improvement Fund.

ScotRail Sustainability & Safety Assurance Director David Lister said: “Train travel is safe but that doesn’t mean we take our customers’ safety for granted. This new system is designed to provide even more security and reassurance to our customers and our people. “CCTV and station Help Points are hugely important in combating crime and antisocial behaviour. And with passenger numbers continuing to grow and crime remaining low on Scotland’s Railway, we think CCTV has played a part in this. “We believe the improvements we’ve made will give our customers added confidence as to the safety of travel by rail.”

BUSINESS PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

Whatsapp-ening Scotland? ScotRail launches a new WhatsApp service for customers as part of a £4million investment plan to improve customer satisfaction. ScotRail becomes one of the first train operating companies in the UK to introduce WhatsApp as a customer contact channel. The service which launched in September, provides customers with the opportunity to communicate directly with ScotRail through the most used, multi-platform messaging service in the world. The launch of the new WhatsApp service for customers is part of the £4million remedial agreement between ScotRail and Transport Scotland.

Delay Repay and refund information cards will be distributed to customers during disruption to allow for faster processing of claims and enquiries; Investment in new and improved devices for frontline staff to improve access to live disruption information. By delivering the actions set out in this plan, in conjunction with the Train Service performance Remedial Plan, ScotRail will continue to improve reliability, punctuality, and customer satisfaction with investment worth £22million. ScotRail Head of Customer Operations, Phil Campbell, said: “We are always looking for new and innovative ways to speak with customers, which is why we are so excited to launch WhatsApp. “Our £4million remedial plan investment will help to deliver the service our customers expect and deserve.

Two regional customer advisory groups will be established to hear first-hand from customers to improve their experience;

“We know we still have much to do to regain the trust of our customers, but the unprecedented investment we are making is already paying off, delivering more seats, more services and faster journeys across the country.”

More frequent ‘deep cleans’ to provide the high level of cleanliness our customers expect;

Customers can connect to ScotRail’s WhatsApp channel by visiting the website or messaging direct on 07555 012345.

Other commitments in the plan include:

Train travel is safe but that doesn’t mean we take our customers’ safety for granted. This new system is designed to provide even more security and reassurance to our customers and our people. Business Scotland

CHAMBER SPOTLIGHT

Business finalists selected for Star billing The countdown to this year’s Perthshire Chamber of Commerce Business Star Awards, generously supported by Binn Group, has begun in earnest as judges reveal their finalists from a record entry of local companies. The shortlisted entrants for Perthshire’s most prestigious business awards will now be asked to “play their aces” as judges begin the task of visiting and interviewing this year’s finalists. Chamber chief executive Vicki Unite said the competition couldn’t be fiercer as one of the most impressive line-ups ever assembled for the Star Awards goes under the spotlight. “It’s now up to each of those companies shortlisted to convince judges that they have real ‘Star quality’,” she said. “The standard this year is exceptional, and the judges’ task will be extraordinarily difficult - any of the finalists could be our ultimate winners. “Finalists will now meet with their judging panels to showcase themselves to match the high standard of their entry and provide a stand-out profile of their business as they bid to secure the judges’ vote.” But Vicki stressed that entrants who have not been shortlisted this year should not be downhearted. “We were very impressed by the standard of entry - right across the board – and with receiving a really impressive record number of entries, whittling down each category to shortlisted finalists has been an especially tough job. Everyone who entered should be extremely proud of their business and what they have achieved to even make them a candidate for the awards.” Celebrating all aspects of the local business world, the area’s premier Awards

will highlight the real “stars” across leading sectors and finalists range from micro businesses right up to some of the area’s largest employers. Perthshire Chamber of Commerce will also recognise the Business Leader of the Year sponsored by Thorntons which will be announced on the night. Entrants this year include regular Star Awards supporters as well as many new faces, with established nationallyrenowned organisations sharing the shortlisted slots with emerging micro operations. It’s an excellent representation from the whole of Perth and Kinross. Chamber directors, sponsors and experts from the business world will help unearth the shiniest Stars in one of the country’s most robust judging procedures in the run-up to our glittering showdown at a black tie dinner, hosted by Scottish journalist, broadcaster and presenter, Stephen Jardine, at Crieff Hydro on Friday, November 22nd. “The Chamber is so proud to be able to showcase the best in the business at our awards dinner,” explained Vicki. “It really is a very exciting evening for everyone and the suspense among the finalists is tangible. Everyone joins in the celebration and acclaim for our winners and that makes for a great atmosphere. “We’re looking forward to another outstanding celebration of Perthshire’s high achievers this year. As the definitive local business awards, Perthshire Business Star Awards continues to attract,

showcase, applaud and reward those companies and individuals who are making a real difference. “Over the years, the PCC Business Star trophies have become much-sought-after targets for companies to achieve and we have rolled out hundreds of examples of business excellence in the form of our winners. This November we will undoubtedly discover some new bright shining Stars.”

Annual Dinner & Business Star Awards Friday 22nd November 2019, 7pm, Crieff Hydro Hotel Drinks on arrival will be followed by the awards ceremony and a fantastic dinner. Look out too for some fundraising fun before dancing into the wee small hours to Groove Culture. This annual celebration of the best in the business world always proves a spectacular night out. Tickets can be booked in advance at www.businessstarawards.com with discounts for Chamber members and bookings of ten or more. MEMBERS: £70pp + VAT For table bookings of 10 or more £65pp + VAT NON-MEMBERS £75pp + VAT For table bookings of 10 or more £72.50pp + VAT For assistance please call 01738 448325 or email events@perthshirechamber.co.uk.

We were very impressed by the standard of entry - right across the board – and with receiving a really impressive record number of entries, whittling down each category to shortlisted finalists has been an especially tough job. Everyone who entered should be extremely proud of their business and what they have achieved to even make them a candidate for the awards.

Business Scotland

GRETNA GATEWAY

New Vision, New Village This Autumn, Gretna Gateway Outlet Village continues its significant revitalisation plans, transforming the destination into Scotland’s premier designer village. Situated on the Scottish border in Dumfries & Galloway, the outlet village is currently home to world class anchor brands including Polo Ralph Lauren, Hugo Boss, Molton Brown and Nike, and welcomes around 2.5 million local and regional shoppers every year. Due for completion in Autumn 2020, the rejuvenated destination will bring a whole new look and feel, with a blend of heritage and contemporary Scottish architecture, and new landscaping which will reflect the lush natural surroundings. The structures will be refreshed with timber-clad storefronts, recycled stone paving, and locally-sourced granite. The revitalisation coincides with the outlet village re-branding to the name Caledonia Park. In line with the refresh, a new wave of brands are set to join the mix, including Adidas, Reebok, Levi’s, Gap and The Cosmetics Company Store (Estée Lauder), further elevating the destination’s lineup of designer fashion and high street favourites. The enhanced retail offering will

be complemented by an oasis of world-class food and drink in the Dining Quarter, with a focus on local produce. Dog-friendly shopping is also high on the agenda, with designated dog bowls, a neighbouring dog walk, and the vast majority of retailers allowing dogs through their doors. The village has recently enjoyed a successful and diverse Summer events calendar, offering florist workshop events, outdoor cinemas,

kids crafting, live music and interactive exhibitions from Glasgow Science Centre. Just off the M74, Scotland’s premier designer village places emphases on experience, making it the ideal retail destination for a day’s shopping, a family day out, or a call-in from your journey over the border. To keep up to date with all the latest news and what’s on, visit gretnagateway.com

NEW VISION, NEW VILLAGE AT GRETNA GATEWAY FIND US AT DG16 5GG

Business Scotland

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Digital revolution: how to get your employees ready for it While the likes of artificial intelligence and robotics can help improve business performance, employers should also consider how the roles of existing workers may change. Over the last few years there has been a considerable amount of focus on the benefits businesses of all types and sizes may be able to gain from technology. Developments such as automation, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning have the potential to help businesses run more effectively and efficiently in sectors ranging from manufacturing and transport to healthcare and financial services. One of the key opportunities for employers looking to make the transition to a more streamlined, digitally enhanced organisation relates to identifying new roles and engaging the existing workforce. How can employers and their staff make the most of the digital revolution? “In any sort of business, it’s important to try to predict what new jobs could be created as a result of moving to digital products or other types of technology,” says Darren Mackenzie, employment law consultant at the Royal Bank of Scotland’s Mentor advisory service. “For example, do you need more web designers or engineers – or people who can analyse data?” Consider retraining or upskilling workers whose roles may need to adapt as a result of the introduction of new digital processes, so that they can be engaged in the new digital journey. “The opportunity here is to engage employees early, in order to motivate them in the best way,” adds Mackenzie.

Upskilling for success

The next step might be to identify exactly what skills gaps are going to exist and what kind of training is going to be required to help employees adapt – as well as who’s going to provide that training. “It’s an employer’s responsibility to help their employees adapt to change and work through it, because many people can find change challenging for all sorts of reasons,” says Mackenzie.

Communicate and engage

A key element of getting this kind of buy-in from employees is being able to communicate with them and engage them in an effective way. “It’s good practice to make employees aware of the company’s long-term direction,” Mackenzie explains. “Upskilling employees well in advance of any changes being made can help to create a smooth transition to a digitally enhanced organisation.

Business Scotland

“To plant the seeds – to give an employee an indication of what the future direction of the organisation might be – can be beneficial, but it’s difficult to be definitive. It is really a question of trying to get that happy balance,” he says. “Best practice to help an employer successfully manage through this digitial revlotion is for them to keep an open mind and always look to see what could be done to marry current people and skills to future roles – this means exploring all the alternatives by upskilling their employees.”

Case study: ‘We took our staff with us’

B-Loony, a supplier of printed promotional balloons, has in recent years invested considerable sums in AI and robotics to streamline its processes. But, according to operations director James Clephan, this has not resulted in a smaller workforce. “We increasingly deal with a number of global clients and are expected to fulfil large-scale orders quickly and efficiently as part of that,” he explains. “Three years ago, we took the decision to invest in our first collaborative robot to work alongside members of our existing team in order to increase productivity as the business expanded. It was important for us that we kept the staff engaged in the process and took them with us as we used technology to carry out some of the more repetitive, time-consuming tasks, which include sewing promotional bunting and making burger flags.” He adds: “It was never our intention to lose staff as part of this process – in fact we’ve increased our numbers and now have eight robots working alongside an expanded team on a 24-hour shift basis. Using robots has allowed us to increase productivity by around 50%.”

Clephan says that staff have been kept fully engaged throughout. “We used staff ambassadors to help to communicate our plans: we see our staff as a vital part of the business and are not looking to replace them – in fact we’ve taken the opportunity to upskill members of the team to manage the robots and oversee their work.”

How to prepare for a digitally enhanced organisation Mentor’s Darren Mackenzie recommends taking the following steps:

1 Identify new roles: what new jobs (for example, web designers or data analysts) could be created as a result of digitisation? 2 Share your vision: communicate to employees your long term-plans for the company, to ensure you take them with you on that journey. 3 Engage staff early: motivating employees by showing them the opportunities presented will help combat any resistance to change. 4 Upskill your workforce: identify skills gaps and the training required to help employees meet the new demands of digital. 5 Keep an open mind: it’s impossible to know the future, so you’ll need to strike a balance between communicating longterm vision and remaining flexible as things change. RBS Mentor offers expert business advice on employment law and HR, health and safety, and environmental management. www.rbsmentor.co.uk

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Business Scotland

Become a friend of Bipolar Scotland

There is no cure for Bipolar Disorder... but our support transforms lives Bipolar Scotland is Scotland’s national charity for everyone living with Bipolar Disorder friends, family, carers and people with a diagnosis. • We maintain a helpline for people seeking advice and information on how to control this condition. • We organise support groups throughout Scotland where people can share advice, information and experience. • We challenge stigma and discrimination wherever it exists. • We offer free courses where people can learn to manage the condition. All these things improve quality of life, reduce hospital admissions and hold families together.

Bipolar Scotland @BipolarScotland

Business Scotland

At the moment, people with Bipolar are twelve times more likely to be unemployed than their fellow citizens and their life expectancy is often 10-15 years shorter. These are figures we’d all like to change and - with your support - we will. 2-3% of Scotland’s population (150,000) live with bipolar disorder so we all know someone with a diagnosis - a relative, a friend, a neighbour, a workmate. Become a friend of Bipolar Scotland and give them a fair chance of living life to the full.

Contact Bipolar Scotland on 0141 560 2050 or info@bipolarscotland.org.uk

www.bipolarscotland.org.uk

BUSINESS PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

Modern Apprenticeship (MA) opportunities with CalMac more than doubled over two years As part of the Scottish Government’s ‘Year of Young People’ in 2018, CalMac focused recruitment efforts on creating new opportunities for school leavers, dramatically increasing job prospects for young people up and down the west coast. The ferry operator now employs 3 MAs across Deck, Engineering, Retail and Port Operation roles - a 130% increase in youth employment opportunities with the company since 2016. Managing Director, Robbie Drummond said: “This is further evidence of us delivering on our promises to improve services and facilitate sustainable economic growth across our area of operations. “As a major employer in the area we serve, it makes perfect sense to create a stream of trained operators who can move seamlessly into the business. Investment in training is investment in first class future service standards.

“These are proportionately high value jobs that will in the long term bring increased spending power into the communities we support.” Designed in partnership with City of Glasgow College, CalMac’s Retail MA is a UK first, proposed to ensure a steady supply of trained crew able carry out the variety of stewarding tasks on board. Also the first of its kind in the country, the company’s Port Operations qualification is being delivered by one of the UK’s leading harbour operators, Forth Ports, the first time they have partnered up to deliver a bespoke qualification for another company. “Every young person we take on is given a first-class grounding to prepare them

for a career at sea. Through a mixture of classroom and on the job training, we give them the skills they need to deliver the exacting service standards our passengers expect,” said Robbie. In addition to MAs, the company sponsored 11 officer cadets over the past year bringing the total number currently in training for a career at sea to 28. Along-with formal training opportunities CalMac also set up 10 school workplacements at offices across the network to give young people a taster of what working with the company is like. Every MA who was taken on last year has now successfully moved into full time employment.

As a major employer in the area we serve, it makes perfect sense to create a stream of trained operators who can move seamlessly into the business. Investment in training is investment in first class future service standards.

Business Scotland

UTILITY CONNECT

Utility Connect Scotland offer a one-stop-shop for all things gas, water and electricity Utility Connect Scotland in Dundee is a leading provider of utility connections, consultancy and project management services to the UK construction industry working across Tayside and the UK, priding itself in the trust their clients have in them and this, combined with their own philosophy of integrity and efficiency results in a service second to none. A talented team work exceptionally hard to investigate, negotiate, secure and manage utility connections (gas, water, electricity and telecoms) on behalf of their clients. The unbiased and persistent focus on our client’s interests to provide the best value often results in considerable cost savings, reduced overheads and shorter project time frames. The company’s clients include some of the biggest names in construction in Tayside, involved in numerous projects across a variety of sectors including industrial, commercial, residential, social housing and generation. Whether you’re working on a large-scale project or you’re moving house, we will coordinate the whole process for you, seamlessly and on budget. They offer a stress-free solution that you can rely on, and let’s face it, we’ve been doing it for over 70 years. To simplify everything, we’ll utilise our expert knowledge and leading position in the industry to support you throughout, from obtaining a quote right through to delivery. Using our expertise and

Whether you’re working on a large-scale project or you’re moving house, we will coordinate the whole process for you, seamlessly and on budget.

Business Scotland

technical knowledge, we provide quotations for any aspects of gas works and work alongside homeowners and developers to deliver their bespoke needs and requirements. In delivering new mains and service connections for large housing, they have a wealth of experience developments and Industrial and commercial projects delivering service alterations where end users wish to move the location of their meter if they are planning on extending or renovating their property, and their gas meter is situated in a position that will hinder the works. Full designs on all of the projects are supplied and we aim to deliver them in 6 to 8 weeks.

Electricity Like our Gas expertise. With us you’re in the right place, as we design and deliver electricity connections and metering solutions from initiation to implementation. Our service footprint covers the whole of the UK or whether you’re a business or homeowner, we will eradicate the stresses and secure you the best electricity services for your site. And we understand the complexity of the electricity services. Every site is unique and we bespoke our services to your business, from start to finish.

Water Water connection expertise for your home and business throughout Scotland We have been providing independent water infrastructure solutions to both domestic and commercial developments for over 20 years. It doesn’t matter where you are in the UK, we will provide a hassle-free, professional and friendly service to exceed

your expectations through our streamlined approach. Whether it be a new water connection, disconnection or relocation, anything is possible with our team of specialists.

Expert multi-utility connection services throughout Scotland Having someone to manage your gas, water and electricity will significantly reduce the burden, with a complete service from start to end. Our experienced in-house team with your own account manager will give you peace of mind knowing that all your utility infrastructure needs will be met on time and within budget, with bespoke project management and a tailor-made solution, designed specifically for you.

An integrated service Coordinating a wide array of different parties can be a nightmare. With us, it’s about exceeding your expectations and eradicating the need to go to numerous companies. Utility Connect Scotland offer a one-stopshop for all things gas, water and electricity. With our customer focused, streamlined approach, we are helping homeowners, commercial customers and industrial developments across Scotland. It doesn’t matter whether you’ve got one premises or multiple complexes, our industry experience spanning over 20 years have enabled us to build a tailormade solution, perfect for each and every customer. To find out how we can help you, call us today on 01382 203400

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BUSINESS PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

Paul Carruthers, Business Development Manager, MarketSpan

The term ‘Web Design’ doesn’t begin to cover it! A different approach to web design

I’m not comfortable with labels like ‘Digital Agency’ or ‘SEO Experts’ because no-one knows what they really mean! Certainly not our typical customers and they’re the ones that matter. For the sake of brevity, we are a web design company, however our approach is what sets us apart. For one, content creation is a big part of the process and every element is handled inhouse including: copywriting, photography, video and animation. The other point is, irrespective of the size or requirements of your business, we set out to work with you before, during and after the main project is up and running. Our costs are clearly set out in our fixed packages and you can be safe in the knowledge that you will be supported by a dedicated account manager with no hidden charges.

Web matters

Since the first-ever website (info.cern.ch) was published in 1991 by British physicist Tim Berners-Lee while at CERN, in Switzerland there are now over 1.5 billion

Business Scotland

websites on the world wide web today. Perhaps more interesting is the fact that the biggest increases in websites by year have come when you would least expect them. In 1994, during the early 1990s recession, the percentage growth in new websites peaked at 2006%; in the midst of the early 2000s recession, this peaked at 438% growth; in 2007, while the world economy wobbled following the subprime mortgage crisis, new websites peaked at 43% growth. Most recently, after Brexit and Trump arrived on the scene, new websites peaked at 69% growth in 2017. Except for 2012, these 4 significant economic milestones have coincided with the biggest annual percentage growth in websites on the world wide web. It really would appear that ‘it’s an ill wind that blows nobody any good’ and at critical moments when the doomsayers are giving it large, time and again we find the most resourceful and creative people are busy taking advantage of a bad lot. They realise that their website is the ultimate tool

to reach out to as broad an audience as possible. It’s the best salesperson you could ever wish for; working flat-out 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Focus on results

When we started building websites in 2000 our aim was to make companies more profitable by increasing revenue and reducing costs and that principle still applies today. Over the years, we have seen an incredible amount of change in the industry with many principles and platforms come and go. From poor and non-existent internet provision, through the dominance of Facebook and Google to the growth in mobile and app development we have consistently worked with our customers to provide the best solutions at an affordable price with hands-on support. 2 examples spring to mind that exemplify what we do and why we love doing it. One involves a small business we have worked with for over 10 years. From initially building their website, we have taken their Google

BUSINESS PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

ranking to number 1, enhanced their Google Ads to steadily grow the business and developed specific business tools to improve core business logistics, saving both time and money. The end result is that this business has been able to increase revenue, take on more employees and is now considered a market leader. At our last meeting, the owner explained how they are expanding into new premises with a fully realised business venture which wouldn’t have been possible without the stability we have been able to afford the business. Another example, involves a company who came to us a few years ago and were struggling to grow in a competitive arena, needing impetus and direction. After initially working on the company website and analysing the competition and marketplace we identified specific areas to focus on and the business is now booming. Now with extra staff, they have expanded to service the whole of Scotland and the North of England with plans to cover the UK in 2020.

What next?

So, in 2019 what should businesses be actively doing? With all the changes in the industry and the ‘white noise’ that often confuses and discourages businesses we are keen to keep things simple. Ask yourself: when did you last update your website? If the answer is over 18 months ago, it’s well worth looking at the speed and user interface of your website on a mobile device. With these 2 principles your site will perform better on search engines and your customers will increase and keep coming back. Give us a call to find out how we can take your business to the next level!

“

Working with MarketSpan to create SCC’s new website was a great experience. The team was responsive, creative and flexible and it was a delight to work with this Scottish company. Marketspan has enabled us to enhance our digital presence and we look forward to continuing and enhancing our partnership. Charandeep Singh | Deputy Chief Executive

”

bespoke web solutions

www.marketspan.co.uk

Business Scotland

BMI HEALTHCARE

BMI Healthcare is Britain’s largest provider of independent healthcare BMI Ross Hall Hospital in Glasgow and BMI Albyn Hospital in Aberdeen provide a wide range of services to organisations that aim to improve and maintain the health of their employees. The UK health and fitness industry has seen growth fuelled by increased awareness of the benefits of exercise on both physical and mental health. The rise in obesity, heart disease and diabetes has further highlighted the need to alter sedentary lifestyles, and government initiatives and sporting events have given the industry a further boost. The services provided through our Health First proposition take a proactive approach to each client’s needs and can be tailored to suit the requirements of each organisation we work with. The full service range includes: Health Assessments – Offering a detailed analysis for your employees, whilst providing insight into the health of your organisation. Physiotherapy – Providing timely diagnosis, treatment and where appropriate onward referral for your employee. Private GP Services – Enabling your employees to get face to face medical advice with minimal waiting times. Diagnostic Services – Delivering a wide variety of routine and specialised procedures, providing a seamless service to your employees. Travel Health Clinics – Ensuring your employees have the correct vaccinations for both personal and business travel. Health Education Events – Empowering your employees with practical and informative advice from our wide range of clinicians. Each service is fully complimented by acting as a gateway to further treatment and services as deemed appropriate through our wider network of specialist Consultants who

practice within our high quality facilities, unrivalled within some parts of Scotland.

Small changes can reduce risks

BMI Health assessments provide the employee (patient) with an excellent opportunity to understand their health. Our specialist team of GPs and health assessment nurses will review their health and offer practical advice on how they can make changes to help reduce the risk of developing common, but often preventable conditions such as: heart disease, stroke, diabetes and kidney disease. Each assessment includes quality time with a doctor or nurse to discuss any personal health concerns. Once the health assessment has been completed the client will receive advice based on their personalised consultation and results which will include recommendations on the lifestyle changes that they can make to improve their health and wellbeing. BMI Healthcare offer 4 levels of health assessments which can cater to an individual or corporate client who wishes to offer this as part of their employee benefits. Some organisations may wish to offer several levels of assessment to their employees dependent on the physical requirements of their role. What we offer can be completely tailored to accommodate this.

Business Scotland

Our range of health assessments are: Essential – A heart health risk assessment and lifestyle advice from a specially trained nurse Select – Designed to assess general health while focussing on areas of particular concern to each gender. For example, breast and testicular cancer awareness and examinations Advanced – Covers the heart, lungs, various cancers, vision, hearing, a full set of blood tests, dietary and lifestyle appraisals and much more Advanced Plus – Our most comprehensive assessment. Patients benefit from all the Advanced tests and examinations plus an exercise ECG to test the heart’s ability. While there are set areas covered and tests performed across each level of assessment, the consultation with our GP and/or specialist nurse is personalised to the patient to ensure any specific areas of concern are addressed.

Corporate offerings

BMI Healthcare have over 300 nationwide corporate contracts at present with approximately 1,000 health assessments being carried out per month and can offer individual bespoke contracts that will meet the needs of each organisation.

BMI HEALTHCARE

BMI ALBYN HOSPITAL BMI Albyn Hospital is situated in the west end of Aberdeen and is ideally situated to offer local corporate organisations and individuals a full range of medical and surgical services. We provide services that range from treatment room and minor procedures, to complex surgery in multiple specialities, all of which are supported by three operating theatres, Diagnostic Imaging, Physiotherapy and Outpatient departments. Some of the key services include: Oil and Gas (OGUK) medicals Full range of orthopaedic services including robotic assisted hip and knee replacement, bespoke knee implants and minimally invasive foot and ankle surgery Fast access bowel screening service Oncology service for breast and colorectal cancers At BMI Albyn Hospital we recognise that stress within the workplace can impact

on employee’s wellbeing and can result in poor performance, lack of sleep and impacted personal life. Therefore we can support companies with self-resilience advice to combat stress and how to develop a healthier sleep routine through health talks from specialist consultants Dr Lene Forrester and Dr Olga Runcie.

For further information please contact Albyn’s Business Development Manager on 01224 577427

21-24 Albyn Place, Aberdeen, AB10 1RW www.bmihealthcare.co.uk/albyn

onward referrals as a result of any health assessment carried out at the hospital. These include but are not limited to: Diagnostic Imaging – X-Ray, Ultrasound, MRI, Multi-Slice CT and Mammography Cardiac Catheterisation Lab – Coronary Angiogram/Angioplasty/Stenting and Pacemakers Eye Care – Our purpose-built eye care centre provides over 30 surgical and non-surgical treatments for the front and back of the eye We are also the only private hospital in Scotland with a level 3 intensive care unit. This advanced capability enables us to treat cases at the highest level of complexity including major spinal, orthopaedic and cardiac surgery.

BMI ROSS HALL HOSPITAL BMI Ross Hall Hospital in Glasgow is Scotland’s largest private hospital. Only 6 miles from Glasgow city centre the full suite of Health First services are delivered from Ross Hall Hospital to our local corporate customer base.

Our Health Assessments and Private GP Services are carried out by Dr John Tobias who has been a general practitioner for over 25 years and can provide all aspects of GP services including certification, pre-employment examination, travel vaccinations and HPV vaccinations. At Ross Hall Hospital we also provide a full range of outpatient, day case and inpatient services for any patients who may require

For more information please contact BMI Ross Hall Hospital’s Sales and Marketing Manager on 0141 303 1480.

221 Crookston Road, Glasgow G52 3NQ www.bmihealthcare.co.uk/rosshall

Business Scotland

HEALTH & WELLBEING

Leadership, development and company culture Your business is reliant on your people. Enhancing the personal and professional development of your employees is in the best interests of the company. Taking a holistic approach to people management by aligning development with wellbeing and communication is the most effective way of enabling people to be the best they can be. Ultimately, treating people as people to enhance business outcomes.

Development

Developing your skills and those of your colleagues will help to get the best out of yourself and your team as well as enhancing your role as a leader. Increased self-awareness and awareness of others is crucial to unlocking hidden potential and understanding emotional intelligence and behaviours. Indeed, some of the most challenging aspects of business, such as conflict resolution, can be better addressed as a result of skills development, making you and your company more resilient.

Wellbeing at work

A culture that supports wellbeing is essential for people to thrive at work. Creating a workplace in which employees feel fairly treated, supported, safe and happy, is in everyone’s interests, as happy people are more productive. Promoting wellbeing in the workplace needn’t be expensive or require a lot of resources. There are simple, straightforward steps employers can take to improve their employees’ wellbeing. Mental health at work is a vital component of wellbeing and as employers, we have a duty of care for our employees’. Fostering a company

Promoting wellbeing in the workplace needn’t be expensive or require a lot of resources. There are simple, straightforward steps employers can take to improve their employees’ wellbeing. culture in which there is an awareness of mental health issues and where employees feel comfortable having open conversations about their wellbeing is imperative.

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Mental health

In recent years there has been an increased focus on mental health in the workplace and rightly so, with the presence of Mental Health First Aiders likely to become a legislative necessity. As well as being the right thing to do, from a purely commercial perspective, promoting wellbeing makes sense too, as poor mental health is estimated to cost the UK £94bn per year according to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. Indeed, poor mental health is now recognised as the leading reason for staff absence, according to the charity Mind.

The role of leaders

Low levels of wellbeing at work have been linked to poor management, so it is important not to neglect the development of managers and leaders within your business. Leaders set the tone for a company’s culture. Creating an ethos of wellbeing is impossible without a commitment from the leadership team. Promoting wellbeing and development also necessitates effective communication. Respectful, impactful conversations are required for communication to be effective, and business leaders must be prepared

to have these conversations, leading by example and from the top.

Employee engagement

Aligning wellbeing and development with communication is the most effective way to enable your people to prosper personally, professionally and emotionally. Open, twoway communication is essential to building trust and integrity within your business and to facilitate employee engagement. At Lindsay and Lang, our combined experience of over 40 years in human resources and communication, provides us with a unique insight into why a holistic approach to people management works best. Our professional and personal experience, in addition to our qualifications, means we provide consultancy and training with authenticity and credibility. Align development, wellbeing and communication in your business. Begin a conversation with impact: Fiona Lindsay & Louise Jenkins-Lang M: 07703 203584 or 07838 247829 www.lindsayandlang.co.uk

HEALTH & WELLBEING

Corporate Membership with Glasgow Club A Glasgow Club membership gives you access to 21 gyms, 12 pools, and more than 1,400 fitness classes across the city every week in world-class venues such as Emirates Arena, Kelvin Hall, and Tollcross International Swimming Centre.

Our gyms are kitted out with top-of-the-range, digitally connected Technogym equipment which allows you to track your workouts, ensuring you’re always working towards achieving your health and fitness goals. Our unique Member Journey also allows customers to book in for regular free personal appointments with our qualified fitness instructors who will work with members to create a custom workout programme designed to meet specific targets. If swimming is how you unwind after a long day, then there’s nowhere better to do it than in one of our pools. From the Olympicstandard Tollcross International Swimming Centre to the restored Victorian baths at North Woodside, we’ve got some of the best pools in the city. Our health suites are also included in a Glasgow Club membership, and you can add the Refresh Spa at Emirates Arena for an extra cost – giving you access to five thermal and hydro experiences to help you relax and unwind. For those of you who love group fitness then we’ve got a huge range of classes to choose from: our very own G-Cycle classes in digitally-connected studios will let you put your skills to the test against your friends and see who comes out in front of the peloton. If you’re looking for something a bit more low-key then you can join us for Yoga or Body Balance, and work on your mindfulness as you also improve your

health. We’ve also got Body Pump, Body Attack, and Body Step for those of you who want to get pulses racing! With plenty more classes to try out, you won’t be short for activities – and everything is bookable on our brilliant Glasgow Club app. If competitive sport is how you keep fit, then our venues also have plenty of court and pitch space available to book for a game of football, badminton, squash, basketball, or tennis. We offer a corporate membership to organisations in and around the city who want to provide their staff with more opportunities to keep fit and healthy. Offering a gym membership to staff has also been shown to have real benefits in the workplace – both for employers and employees. First and foremost: it promotes health and wellness to all staff. Encouraging employees to engage in healthy behaviours can help them maintain their mental and physical wellbeing and this, in turn, leads to happier and motivated colleagues. Offering a gym membership as a benefit to your employees can also act as a form of preventative medicine. People who regularly exercise are generally healthier over the long-term, and have lower stress levels, improved sleeping patterns, and a lower risk of heart disease. It can also be a cost-effective way of looking after employee wellbeing as those who maintain their health will take fewer sick days.

With discounts of more than 15% available on our membership prices, and the opportunity to waive the joining fee, employees can save more than £70 a year with a corporate membership through your organisation. We can also offer different payment options (such as a lump sum payment or smaller monthly instalments) depending on what works best for your business and your employees. If you’re interested and would like to discuss the options we can offer your organisation, then get in touch with us on 0141 287 9866 or glasgowcluboffers@glasgowlife.org.uk

Business Scotland

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Apprentices recognised for contributions to their communities The efforts of young people across the North Highlands were celebrated recently at the Developing the Young Workforce (DYW) North Highland Awards and the Caithness Chamber of Commerce Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award. This year’s DYW North Highland awards saw three apprentices from across the region recognised for their contributions.

Engineering. She is an active STEM ambassador and has attended numerous events across the UK to represent Dounreay.

Emma Gunn, a fourth-year apprentice with Nuvia Ltd, was recognised not only for her excellent work with the company – including an instrumental role in winning work as part of a competitive tender exercise – but for her tireless efforts as a local STEM ambassador, which included organising and promoting a “Discover Engineering” event in partnership with North Highland College UHI and local engineering companies.

The efforts of Iona McLachlan were also recognised when she was selected as the winner of this year’s Caithness Chamber of Commerce Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award. Aged just 19, Iona has this year set up and grown her own business, North Coast Watersports, offering surf coaching lessons to both locals and tourists.

Nuvia Ltd were also recognised both locally and at the Highland Business Awards 2019 for their efforts to integrate young people into their business. Judges were particularly impressed with their induction programme, which not only recognises and accounts for the often difficult change from an educational environment to a work one, but which actively involves the apprentices’ families in the process. Rachel Miller, who is undertaking a two-year apprenticeship with Identity Hair Salon in

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Golspie, was also recognised for her hard work and rapid advancement. In addition to her duties within the salon and her work towards her NVQ Level 2 Hairdressing, she has already achieved an advanced qualification in Future Foundation Cutting at the nationally renowned Toni & Guy Academy. The final apprenticeship award went to Emma Gunn, a fourth-year Engineering Design Apprentice with Dounreay Site Restoration Ltd. Over the course of her four years Emma has completed an HND in Engineering Systems and is working towards a BEng in Electrical and Electronic

With support from the Chamber and the Caithness Business Fund, Iona and her partner Finn – both world-class surfers – were able to take the business from idea to reality in just a few short months, and it has already proven a hit. Never content to rest for long, Iona already has major plans for expansion of the business. The coming years will bring many new challenges and opportunities for the business community of the North Highlands, but with this level of drive and enthusiasm on display, the next generation is sure to rise to the occasion.

CIRCULAR TAYSIDE

Circular Tayside to support innovative organisations adopt Circular Economy Although circular economy is still a new term in many people’s vocabulary, it is here to stay. It refers to the adoption of innovative products or business models that re-design the concept of waste - waste is not to be thrown away but rather reduced, re-used or recycled, increasing product life cycle and keeping them in circulation for longer. This concept has now become a reality with European Regional Development Funds being aimed at increasing circular economy activity throughout the EU and the Scottish Government introducing a Circular Economy Bill later in the year. In light of these changes, Dundee and Angus Chamber of Commerce and Perthshire Chamber of Commerce created a strong partnership with Zero Waste Scotland to deliver Circular Tayside. With the chambers’ great record in business engagement and Zero Waste Scotland’s expertise in waste management, the project offers education, advice and access to funding, to local organisations that have a new idea of how to manage their waste. It is predicted that by doing so, Tayside will benefit from approximately £404m and the creation of numerous new employment opportunities.

The support covers advice and funding and is aimed at SMEs, social enterprises and third sector organisations that want to create an innovative circular economy product or business model to reduce and/or reutilise a waste stream. Circular Tayside is especially keen to work on collaborative projects (i.e. one business managing another business’ “waste”). Some examples of business activities that have received support in Tayside are an innovative waste management system that can process challenging plastics in Perthshire and a 3D printing business in Angus. The team recently decided to move into the next phase of their plan by welcoming a Circular Tayside Manager into the team, who becomes a dedicated resource for local organisations and a link between businesses, chambers and Zero Waste Scotland.

With a dynamic start in August 2019, the Circular Tayside Manager and the chambers’ CEOs met with relevant stakeholders in Dundee, Perth and Kinross and Angus councils, business networks, academia and other influential organisations to present the project and arrange joint ventures. Circular Tayside will be present at all major business, social enterprise and third sector networking events in Tayside to increase awareness about the opportunity aims to arrange 1-2-1 meetings with interested parties. So if you are an organisation, business support network or just someone interested in the project, contact us on vasomakri@circulartayside.co.uk or visit https://circulartayside.co.uk and learn more on the available support!

Business Scotland

BUSINESS MENTORING

GM Civil and Structural Mentee

Mentor

Michael Carlin

Jim Loy

When Jim Loy met with Michael Carlin for the first time, he noticed some things that were holding Michael and GM Civil and Structural back. The day-to-day operations were frantic, the desire to satisfy clients was paramount and Michael was working significant hours to ensure that the company were completing the required work. Michael’s commitment to the running of the business was preventing him from viewing the business more strategically. Long hours, no holidays and intense workloads were part and parcel of Michael’s working life.

Business Scotland

Jim asked Michael a simple question – did he really have a business? Michael realised that he wasn’t sure and Jim noted that Michael was falling into the trap of spending all his time working FOR his business, rather than ON his business. Michael realised that he was at a point where he had to decide whether he truly wanted to grow his business or not. He is a perfectionist by nature, but in order to make progress he had to take a slightly less hands-on approach. Looking back on the process, Michael realised that joining the Business

Mentoring programme was key to the future path of the business and that Jim’s independent perspective and open mind were helpful. He was forced to answer questions about how the business could expand or if he and his partner were content to just continue as they were. Through their meetings Michael learned that for the business to develop he had to look at the bigger picture. Also, the business wasn’t receiving payments from clients swiftly enough, because neither Michael nor his partner had time to chase them up. Jim was able to suggest simple steps, such as employing someone with a remit to chase up clients who were slow in paying. This eased cashflow concerns and allowed Michael to think 3 or 4 months ahead and make more strategic decisions. Jim also suggested taking a different approach to analysing the roles of people within the business. Jim had attended a seminar on psychometric testing and

BUSINESS MENTORING

discovered that including aspects of it into his business operations had allowed for a better understanding of key personnel and their skills.

experts and to aid them in developing that in a business sense – Michael didn’t need his help from an engineering point of view, he needed help from the business side.

When he initially got involved in the programme he decided to meet with Jim because he thought he could make contacts due to the close relationships between the two sectors. In retrospect however that was not the real value he got from the programme.

Jim and Michael were both full of praise for mentoring as a concept and the Scottish Business Mentoring programme. Jim says that if he was still in business “even after forty years, I’d take the opportunity to be mentored!”. He thinks that the one-year duration is perfect to make a mark, and both agree that it’s important for mentees to be invested from the get-go. Michael said that in retrospect he should’ve committed sooner to make the most of Jim’s knowledge and experience – and he wishes Jim was still mentoring him now!

Michael highlights that potential mentees should be entirely open to having a mentor from a different sector entirely, as the benefit doesn’t come from knowledge of an industry, but from business experience. Jim says of mentoring that the role of mentors is to harness the knowledge of industry

Jim says that if he was still in business “even after forty years, I’d take the opportunity to be mentored!”. He thinks that the one-year duration is perfect to make a mark, and both agree that it’s important for mentees to be invested from the get-go. Michael said that in retrospect he should’ve committed sooner to make the most of Jim’s knowledge and experience – and he wishes Jim was still mentoring him now!

Business Scotland

MAKE IT EDINBURGH

Make it Edinburgh – a campaign worthy of the capital

Edinburgh is a city with a long, proud history of firsts – something that extends to how its business tourism community has come together to counteract the effects of ongoing political uncertainty, whilst at the same time ensuring the city both strengthens and grows its reputation as the perfect destination for conferences, meetings and business events. Business tourism is an important sector for Edinburgh, accounting for approximately 20% of tourism revenue in the city. The capital’s collective efforts thus far have already seen it awarded 27th in the International Congress and Convention Association’s (ICCA) world rankings in 2018 for hosting international meetings, 2nd only to London in the UK.

Through digital channels, the Make It Edinburgh campaign targets UK and European meeting and event planners, promoting Edinburgh as a leading destination for business events and showcasing the sectoral strengths of the city such as finance, life sciences and technology, as these are key drivers of business tourism.

Events bring delegates to the city all year round, which benefits venues, hotels, transport providers, bars, restaurants, shops and attractions. But the rewards are also reaped by ancillary services and businesses, such as accountancy firms, laundry and maintenance companies, and more thanks to the sector’s halo effect. Regardless of direct or indirect connection to the hospitality industry, Scottish businesses stand to gain from events taking place in the capital, and likewise all are affected any downturn resulting from the current political uncertainty.

Amanda Ferguson, Head of Business Tourism at Marketing Edinburgh explains, “The message we aim to promote is that Edinburgh is synonymous with innovation, discovery and thinking, a rich history of heritage, full of inspiring locations, buildings and people. Hence conference organisers should ‘Make it Edinburgh’. The campaign gives us a powerful collective voice that will help us develop our business tourism offering and promote Edinburgh’s world leading Centres of Excellence.”

In response to this, the city’s business tourism industry has come together to deliver an integrated marketing campaign that unites its diverse offering under a single, cohesive digital strategy - called Make It Edinburgh – to keep the city front of mind with conference organisers.

Business Scotland

The Make It Edinburgh campaign in its first 12 months achieved an 87.6% increase in traffic to Convention Edinburgh’s website, and generated 147 business enquiries. Campaign partners include the Edinburgh Hotel Association, Edinburgh Airport, Edinburgh International Conference Centre, Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh,

Edinburgh Tourism Action Group and Convention Edinburgh (the business tourism arm of Marketing Edinburgh). Together, the group also secured support from VisitScotland’s Growth Fund. With the campaign’s proven success and the continued political challenges there is collective agreement that the Make It Edinburgh campaign should be extended. Several of the campaign’s founding partners have already reinvested, and an appeal to the wider business community to ‘crowdfund’ the campaign for a further six months has started to gain traction. Natasha Breen from Edinburgh First commented on making their pledge, “We all recognise the challenges presented by the uncertainty of Brexit this autumn and the Make It Edinburgh campaign is a great opportunity for everyone to take positive action. Together, as a city, we want to maintain our strong business tourism market through these strong and committed relationships.” To find out more and to make your pledge to the Make It Edinburgh campaign visit: www.makeitedinburgh/pledge #BackMIE

MAKE IT EDINBURGH

Fingal, one of the most exciting new venues in Scotland, is the perfect setting for product launches, networking events and private dining. Alternatively, our stunning Lighthouse Bar is open to non-residents, serving afternoon tea, supper and cocktails. Decadent and delicious.

reservations@fingal.co.uk

Scottish Chamber of Commerce V4.indd 1

www.fingal.co.uk

02/10/2019 10:10:37

Business Scotland

MAKE IT EDINBURGH

The Brunton – The place to be inspired! With fantastic state of the art conference facilities and a purpose built venue, The Brunton in Musselburgh, is the leading choice for corporate and private hire.

The large, comfortable seats in Venue 1, fully retract to offer a versatile space ideal for conferences, meetings, dinners, weddings and concerts for up to 500. The adjoining Venue 2 allows for another 250 with further breakout space available.

available to suit every client’s budget.

The Brunton can facilitate to a high technical specification, with clever lighting and exceptional audio visuals, creating something special for every occasion.

The Brunton is perfectly situated in the heart of Musselburgh, with easy access to the A1 and City Bypass. Only minutes away from Edinburgh City Centre and a 30 minute drive from Edinburgh Airport, this really is the ideal location!

Pricing is tailored to suit needs, from day delegate rates to personalised bespoke packages. Exceptional catering packages are

The Brunton’s professional, experienced and specialised events team are on hand to help carry each event through from conception to completion, ensuring occasions that exceed expectations.

For more information contact Sales and Events at info@thebrunton.co.uk 0131 665 9900 www.thebrunton.co.uk.

The Royal Society of Edinburgh - the perfect venue for conferences, meetings, private dinners and social events.

We look forward to welcoming you.

rooms@theRSE.org.uk 0131 240 5034 www.rse.org.uk/venue

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MAKE IT EDINBURGH

Corporate Events at Edinburgh Business School Located just 7 miles west of Edinburgh city centre, Edinburgh Business School offers an ideal location for events for 10 – 100 delegates. The venue includes lecture theatres, breakout rooms and a private dining space ideal for conferences, seminars and meetings; as well as a bright spacious atrium ideally suited for hosting exhibitions, corporate dinners and receptions. Edinburgh Business School is located within Heriot-Watt University and lies in the peaceful landscaped acreage of Riccarton Campus. The campus is easily accessible from the M8 and city bypass, and is just a ten minute journey from Edinburgh Airport. Event delegates have access to the ample complimentary car parking located onsite for visitors. Offering two purpose-built lecture theatres, accommodating up to 100 delegates, facilities can be configured to facilitate any event type. Each theatre includes six break-out rooms for up to 8 delegates and each theatre has its own lounge area, making it perfect for serving refreshments. The venue offers complimentary Wi-Fi throughout and the theatres come with inbuilt AV. Event catering, delivered through

‘Inspire Catering’, offers delegates a wide variety of award winning, high quality and nutritious menus for any occasion. This unique venue includes onsite accommodation within two-minute walk, providing a spacious complex of 30 en-suite bedrooms located over three floors. All rooms have king-sized beds, complimentary Wi-Fi and ample desk space, as well as a private balcony or patio. Hotel guests have access to gym facilities and fitness classes at Oriam – Scotland’s Sports Performance Centre. Day to day Edinburgh Business School offers business management and corporate Executive Education on campus and flexible online learning programmes for students across over 160 countries. In addition, 2018 saw Edinburgh Business

School launch a Business Incubator as a bespoke supportive environment for new business start-ups and entrepreneurs. For further information please contact ebs.eventinfo@hw.ac.uk or call 0131 451 3090.

AN ENVIRONMENT TO INSPIRE IDEAS THAT CHANGE THE WORLD

We’re passionate about ideas and creativity so we’ve filled our venue with exciting technology to engage audiences, encourage networking and inspire world-changing ideas Contact us to talk about your next event t 0131 300 3333 e sales@eicc.co.uk w www.eicc.co.uk EDINBURGH INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE CENTRE

@eicc

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MAKE IT EDINBURGH

Residential conferences at Queen Margaret University Are you looking for a modern spacious venue for a conference or event? Perhaps a venue with on-site accommodation for your residential conference requirements? Get in touch with the Conference and Events Team at Queen Margaret University today. We have a professional, dedicated team ready to deal with all of your conference needs, from small meetings or training workshops, up to large residential international conferences attracting up to 250 delegates. You can be confident that Queen Margaret University has plenty to offer to deliver a successful event. During certain periods of the summer months, we have availability in our 700 single or double on-suite bedrooms, which we offer at an affordable competitive rate. From one-night conference bookings through to multiple night stays, our campus offers a range of facilities including free car parking, food outlets, sports facilities, a self-service laundry and boasts direct transport links to Edinburgh City Centre, all of which will compliment your stay with us. Are you looking for a cost-effective venue for your residential conference at the beginning

of June? Starting in 2020, we now have early availability from Monday 8th June 2020. Take advantage of our newly extended accommodation availability and book by 31st January 2020 to receive a 20% discount. *please quote code QMUJUNE20 when speaking with a member of our team. Alongside modern on-site accommodation, we have an extensive variety of spaces available for hire covering everything from state-of-the-art lecture theatres to clinical labs and drama studios. We deliver a great service at very competitive prices and previous clients have included the Scottish Government, East Lothian Council, the Scotsman, British Psychological Society, the British and Irish Ombudsman Association, just to name a few. Our team would love to hear from you and assist with any questions you may have. Get in touch via email: events@qmu.ac.uk or telephone: 0131.474.0000 to talk through your requirements and receive a bespoke estimate based on your needs.

APARTHOTEL ADAGIO EDINBURGH ROYAL MILE ****

A temporary second home – apartment living for the business traveller

Apartment living is more on trend than ever before for the modern business and leisure traveller. Adagio is the European market leader in aparthotels – serviced apartment living is our business, our passion and our expertise. Combining the autonomy of apartment living with the hospitality of hotel life, Adagio offers flexibility; independence; hotel-like services such as 24 hour reception, free wifi and housekeeping; kitchen, living and

Business Scotland

sleeping spaces; inclusive breakfast options; contemporary design; convenience and comfort central locations in the heart of the city; and attractive tiered pricing from fourth night onwards – the longer you stay the less you pay. Adagio is the true apartment living brand for business travellers.

city itself. Created to be an open space where guests can meet, share and collaborate, the living space is welcoming, comfortable and stylish. The design has taken its inspiration from the stunning architecture and nature that make up the famous Edinburgh landscape.

The Aparthotel Adagio Edinburgh Royal Mile features 146 light, beautiful modern apartments and a public space that is bold, creative and as welcoming as the

Located on the world-famous Royal Mile, moments from Edinburgh Waverley train station, the Adagio is perfectly located for business and leisure in Edinburgh.

Starting Price

£59 Apartments: 146 apartments Address: 231 Canongate, Edinburgh, EH8 8BJ Tel: 0131 322 8299 Email: h9289@adagio-city.com

MAKE IT EDINBURGH

Opened in July 2019, Holyrood Distillery will produce Edinburgh’s first malt whisky for nearly 100 years and is a major new visitor attraction. Located in the southside of Edinburgh, just 15 minutes’ walk from the Royal mile, there are a variety of different tours on offer.

With a focus on flavour, the visitor can enjoy a hands-on, sensory experience to guide them through both the gin and whisky produced. There is a well-stocked shop on site which is open to all, and the visitor ends their tour in the bar which offers lovely views over Holyrood Park. Tours range from the standard distillery tour; to more in depth Gin or Whisky experiences. There is also the option of a masterclass with

head distiller Jack Mayo. The distillery also offers an idea venue for evening events which of course can include a tour or tasting. Housed in a historic B-Listed former railway building, the project is the dream of Canadian couple Rob & Kelly Carpenter, who have hired a team of leading industry experts to help them create these exceptional spirits.

The team offer the opportunity to buy a cask and are developing a range of corporate membership. The distillery also offer the chance to become a flavour explorer, to join them on the journey of their maturing spirit through yearly samples. For more information visit www.holyrooddistillery.co.uk or e-mail askus@holyrooddistillery.co.uk

Surgeons Quarter is one central Edinburgh destination consisting of four unique venues, plus the four star Ten Hill Place Hotel. As part of The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, our profits help to fund the advancement of surgical training and provision worldwide. That’s just one reason to hold your next meeting with us! Across venues historic and modern, large and small, we offer everything you need for a seamless event. All of our meeting rooms come with AV equipment and our catering options are prepared fresh on-site by award winning chefs. No matter what your requirements, our experienced Events Coordinators will strive to meet them. Right on site, Ten Hill Place Hotel offers exclusive delegate rates so you can stay overnight in luxurious comfort. The award winning restaurant, Drinks & Dining, offers a stylish location to impress your dinner guests, with exclusive private dining experiences for 14 available in the Snug. We are currently offering a complimentary welcome reception package and discounted venue hire fee for MICE organisers through Make it Edinburgh.

Contact our Events Team directly to start arranging your next conference or meeting at Surgeons Quarter! 0131 527 3434 | events@surgeonsquarter.com | www.surgeonsquarter.com

Business Scotland

OPEN CRM

The Battle of the Business Software Acronym: SFA vs CRM What are they and which is right for your company? Let me start with a quick “official” definition of both Sales Force Automation (SFA) and Customer Relationship Management (CRM). SFA is, at its most basic, a collection of tools in a piece of software that allow a business to manage and streamline their sales process (and team). CRM, on the other hand, is a collection of tools in a piece of software that help businesses manage their relationships with their customers, at all stages of the customer journey. Sound similar? Yeah, I think so too. And that’s because they are. A lot of CRM systems out there have a selection of sales force automation tools within them. There are also quite a few SFAs have limited customer relationship management tools to help the sales team keep on track. In short, not all CRMs have great SFA tools and not all SFAs have good CRM elements.

So which is right for your business? As someone who runs a company who develops and sells a CRM system with some great SFA tools within in, I’m going to do my best to maintain some impartiality…but you know, want to be upfront about where I’m coming from. The question really comes down to how you run your business and where the focus of this new software is going to be. So I’d like to explore both options: SFA system with CRM elements and them CRM solutions with SFA tools.

SFAs with CRM Elements In my experience, there are three key benefits businesses are looking for from SFA systems: First, tools and features that help keep your sale team focused on the right information at the right time. This way they can make the follow up call, nudge a negotiation that’s gone on too long, and chase up the odd overdue invoice. Having the CRM elements that tell them when the last call with the service team was, can feel less important. The second point businesses are looking to address is more about making sure salespeople get all that “boring”, admin work done. It’s about automating those jobs

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that are easily overlooked in the rush to close a sale. (Hey, I’m casting no stones, I’m a salesman myself.) But this automation of the creation of reminders, updating linked information, and sending drip emails…it’s something that SFA tools can really help to address. The final thing I think businesses are looking for with a SFA system is all centred around reporting. Managers want to be able to easily get access to pipeline information, task completion figures, and even build their own comparative reports. These kinds of insights aren’t about being big brother…they’re about keeping tabs on how your business is performing.

CRMs with SFA tools Although SFA systems can be really powerful for the sales team, I firmly believe that a manager should ever completely silo the data from one side of the business from another. The information about recent customer service requests, upcoming invoices, and ongoing sales negotiations—that’s all information that has a huge impact on the relationship you’re building with your customer. Breaking it into separate chunks, in my opinion, hobbles your team. Having a system, on the other hand, that has both all of those great relationship management tools working in tandem with powerful sales enablement features…well, that just makes sense to me. Your sales team can work with everyone else in your business to build and contribute to those strong relationships, while also focusing on bringing in revenue. With everything all in one place, everyone in your business can see how your relationship with each individual customer is playing out.

Customer service can see what originally brought them on board and sales can see when something isn’t going to plan BEFORE they call to chase an invoice.

I’ll ask again: Which is right for your business? Annoyingly I’m not going to tell you the answer (for all that the salesperson side of me is screaming out to do so). Every business is different and needs to decide for themselves what kind of system will most benefit them and their users. I will leave you with one last piece of advice, however: Try them out before you decide. Go out and get a personal demonstration with a couple of systems that look like they might fit the bill. Sign up for a free (or even a paid trial) to test that system out for yourself. Spend time on the phone with your potential providers to find out if they are the kinds of people you want to do business with… after all, this is a system you will be using to run your business. You want to make sure you actually LIKE the people who you’ll be working with to make it fit you and your team. To talk to a member of the OpenCRM team about your CRM software can benefit your business, call 01748 473000 or visit us at www.opencrm.co.uk.

Graham Anderson, is the CEO and founder of OpenCRM, one of the UK’s leading customer relationship management systems.

INDIA

A Shared Vision: Advancing Scotland-India Trade Relation Scottish Chambers

Scottish Chambers

@ScotChambers

Excellent meeting with High Commissioner Sir Dominic Asquith. Our shared vision to advance Scotland-India trade relations will benefit both nations and expand trade opportunities for Scottish & Indian companies #GREATforCollaboration

Excellent meeting with Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce. With a global outlook & membership base of over 250,000 Indian companies, we’re looking forward to strengthening our economic ties with our counterparts in India #SCCIndia2019

@UKinIndia #SCCIndia2019

@ficci_india

India is fast cementing it’s position as a global economic superpower with a growing appetite for growth, development & reform. Excellent meetings with @ investindia & @UKIBC in Delhi to hear about the immense opportunities for Scottish businesses #SCCIndia2019

Scottish Chambers

Liz Cameron OBE

Scottish Chambers

@ScotChambers

@lizcameronscc

@ScotChambers

Great to be in Chandigarh India’s first planned city to meet with @ UKinChandigarh, Panjab Energy Development Board & Haryana Education Board talking Tourism, Renewable Energy, Food + Drink & Higher Education. Lots of opportunities for Scottish businesses #SCCIndia2019

Delighted to meet with @Nitin_ Gadkari, Minister for SMEs & Transport to talk collaboration & partnership between Scotland & India. It was great to hear of India’s ambitions to scale-up & accelerate business growth #SCCIndia2019

#SCCIndia2019 #ScotlandIsNow

Liz Cameron OBE

Tim Allan

@lizcameronscc

@TimAllan_SCC

Wow! Thanks @maskachaska for an outstanding session with Weber Shandwick India. Energetic & passionate team with a deep insight of the world’s fastest growing economy. @WS_IND is on top of our list for @ScotChambers November Trade Mission #SCCIndia2019 #ScotlandIsNow

Honoured to be hosted by Chief Minister @mlkhattar in Chandigarh to strengthen business ties between Scotland & Haryana. With a population of over 25 million+ & ambitious economic reforms, opportunities to do business are great

Impressive entrepreneurial energy from @investindia & @UKIBC. Immense opportunities for Scottish business in healthcare, renewables, life sciences, food+drink, tourism & more. Look forward to engaging Scottish Business to expand trade between & #SCCIndia2019

Scottish Chambers of Commerce is expanding B2B links in one of the world’s largest economies. To join us and grow your business in India contact us on 0141 444 7500.

Business Scotland

Focus on Training and Development

in association with

Unique Courses DISCOVER DIVERSITY IN DUNDEE

almcollege.ac.uk

Independent College of Higher Education Dundee, Scotland

• • • • •

Arabic Language Business Islamic Banking & Finance Islamic Studies Management & Leadership

All of our courses are fully SCQF credit-rated by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA)

Apply now online at

almcollege.ac.uk

DISCOVER DIVERSITY IN DUNDEE

almcollege.ac.uk

Discover your global employability

Al-Maktoum College in collaboration with the University of Dundee offers three different masters courses in Islamic Finance to help individuals enhance, change and expand careers. Unique opportunities The University of Dundee’s strengths in conventional finance and international business, combined with Alm College’s Islamic finance and political economics expertise makes for three comprehensive, theoretical and applied MSc degrees. The programmes will provide individuals with the necessary knowledge, technical and analytical skills required to undertake work within the global financial system. Each programme contains eight conventional and Islamic finance modules and a short, focused financial-based business report All three MSc programmes are designed for individuals who have completed an undergraduate degree and are now looking to specialise their studies within the financial sector. They are suitable for those who have come from a background in finance and business but also for those who are new to the subject area.

Expanding careers The masters courses prepare individuals for a successful career, wherever in the world and in whatever sector you plan to work. Employers expect their postgraduate recruits to have advanced technical and communication skills, to be confident team-workers, independent researchers, good project-managers

and to be at the leading edge of their specialism. University of Dundee Business School in collaboration with the College has designed these degree courses to respond to these demands. The MSc Islamic Finance course look to provide the skills and understanding to work in a variety of conventional and Islamic businesses such as banks, insurance companies, financial service companies and trading brokers. Individuals may also want to apply for roles in the finance arms of industries and commercial firms outside of the finance sector.

Discover Dundee Dundee was named the ‘Best Place to live in Scotland’ by the Sunday Times 2019. The £80 million V&A Museum of Design, as part of the billion-pound waterfront development, has become a major attraction drawing national and international attention. Referred to as Scotland’s sunniest city, Dundee is the fourth largest city in the country and is home to around 147,000 people. The cities two large universities and two main colleges bring as many as 45,000 students during term time, making Dundee a heavily student-friendly place to live. The city is renowned for its developments in life sciences, business, computer gaming industries, research, medical studies, the arts, education, hi-tech manufacturing, tourism and so on. It is indeed a city of discovery, and the ideal place for study.

Improve your global employability by studying for a masters degree in Islamic Finance in Dundee. The University of Dundee in collaboration with Al-Maktoum College offers three different masters courses in Islamic finance to help you enhance, change and expand your career. • MSc Islamic Finance • MSc Islamic Banking and Finance • MSc Islamic Banking, Finance and International Business Designed for students who have completed an undergraduate degree in any subject and are now looking to specialise their studies within the financial sector. Scholarships of up to £10,000 are available. Tuition fee information and entry requirements can be found online at dundee.ac.uk/study/pg/Islamic-finance

Apply now for January 2020

E admissions@almcollege.ac.uk T +44 (0) 1382 908070

almcollege.ac.uk/study

MAXIMISE YOUR POTENTIAL

MBA STUDY at RGU We offer two internationally recognised and industry connected MBA Programmes, a general MBA and a specialist MBA in Oil and Gas Management. Both degrees are highly applied and practice-driven to hone your skills and support your career development. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll participate in our acclaimed Leadership Week event,

take control of a business in an online simulation, and apply your learning in a Consultancy Project to bring value for a client organisation. Our study modes include full-time on campus or part-time online, so you can gain your MBA alongside your career.

Join us in January 2020.

Apply at www.rgu.ac.uk/mba

TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT

Online Dangerous Goods Training Are your staff involved in the transport of goods classed as dangerous by air, road, sea, rail, or inland waterway? Online courses available: 1 Introduction to Dangerous Goods by Air, Road, and Sea – overview for management and staff.

General Security Awareness Training (GSAT)

EU and DfT legislation states that all airport staff requiring an airside staff pass must first complete a General Security Awareness Training (GSAT) course.

2 Dangerous Goods by Air for Cargo Staff and Airport Ground Handling Staff (ICAO/ IATA Cat. 4, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 13 and 14) and staff of designated postal operators in categories b and c. 3 Dangerous Goods by Air for Passenger Handling Staff and Security Screeners (ICAO/IATA Categories 9, 12 and 15). 4 Dangerous Goods by Air for Flight Crew Members, Load Planners and Loadmasters (ICAO/IATA Cat. 10 and 16). EU and international legislation states that all staff directly or indirectly involved in the transport of goods classed as dangerous by air, road, sea, rail, or inland waterway, must receive training appropriate to their job. Choose FTA’s cost-effective Online Dangerous Goods training programme, aligned with UK CAA and EASA-OPS requirements.

5 Dangerous Goods by Air for Crew Members (other than flight crew). Book your course at onlinedangerousgoodstraining.com

FTA’s online GSAT course uses clear spoken language, pictures, text and videos, making it easily understood by second-language speakers. It features professional ﬁlm sequences, taken at a major UK airport, and provides a glossary of abbreviations and technical terms.

Course coverage: The threat to aviation Security in the aviation industry The trainees role Recognising and reporting suspicious behaviour Access control and the screening point Book your course at www.gsattraining.net

Business Scotland

TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT - UNIVERSITY OF GLASGOW

A life-changing experience “An MBA is about far more than an education or a qualification, it informs your whole life,” observes Abhishek Singh, an alumnus of the Adam Smith Business School. Abhishek’s quest to study an MBA was inspired by the business journals he read, but it was a journey that began in his childhood home in North East India. “The environment I grew up in is one which I can only describe as humble, close to the border with China, it’s a rural area that’s sparsely populated,” explains Abhishek. “I spent a lot of time exploring the local woods. “Throughout my life, however, I’ve been extremely focused on my academic endeavours and been fortunate to have people around me who supported me in this. I first won a scholarship to secondary school, then another to study for my undergraduate degree.

Business Scotland

“Moving across the country to live in an urban area of southern India to study at Mahatma Gandhi University was quite an adventure. My undergraduate degree in Technology had an emphasis on electrical and electronics engineering, so after graduating, I worked for Hewlett-Packard (HP) and IBM as a systems engineer. I learnt many things and it proved to be a great foundation on which to build my career. “I’ve been an avid reader of business journals for a long time and these inspired me to apply for an MBA. I’d been tentatively looking at courses in the UK and Australia when my Aunt heard about the British Council scholarships and encouraged me

to apply. It was a rigorous application and interview process, and I was delighted to be offered a full scholarship. “The British Council offered me an opportunity I wouldn’t otherwise have had, providing me with almost everything I needed for my year on the MBA, whilst the University of Glasgow Adam Smith Business School supplied quite a few textbooks too. A lot of online resources were also available, as well as a well-equipped library, so once the course was underway I didn’t have to spend too much. “Arriving in Glasgow, late in the evening about two days before the course started, I was surprised at how calm and quiet it was

TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT - UNIVERSITY OF GLASGOW

in the city centre. Just as I arrived, I saw a fox wandering down the road, the first I’d ever seen. “A fellow student drew me a map of the route to the university, so I found my way on the first morning and I was delighted to discover my lectures were in the main university building under the iconic tower. “I soon discovered that Glasgow is an enjoyable city in which to live, I can see why it’s been voted the friendliest city in the world. I relished exploring the city and took full advantage of the many discounts available to students. “You might be surprised to learn that the climate in Glasgow is quite similar to that in north east India, so when I moved to Scotland, I felt quite at home – the mostly cloudy weather suited me. “The green spaces I discovered and the proximity to nature, helped me adapt to city life. Over the year, I visited the Kelvingrove Gallery many times too, it became one of my favourite places in the city. Whilst the Business School organised excursions, so I saw quite a bit of Scotland during the year. “Compared to most MBAs, the intake on the Glasgow MBA is small. The University ensures there is a broad mix of people on the course, with a wide variety of professional experience, from different countries and of all ages, giving the course a diverse and international feel. “Given the small cohort, there was always time for questions and debates in seminars and when it came to our electives, the courses typically had five or six students, meaning students received a lot of 1-2-1 attention. “It’s the small intake and the individual support that marks the Glasgow MBA out from other courses. The professors work hard on the students’ behalf. We were able to examine topics in depth given the small class size and the academics gave us lots of additional material. Classes often ran over the scheduled time limit as there was so much interaction and I soon learnt that from a simple question you can learn a lot and that no question is a bad question. “The faculty continued to engage with us once classes were finished, there were additional networking, social and guest

speaker events arranged throughout the year too. I’ve stayed in touch with a few of my professors, and even now, several years after the course finished, they continue to provide advice and support. In the years that followed, I found the alumni team and association helpful too. “In addition to theory, we covered a lot of case studies and gained tangible experience via a team consulting project, working with a business on a real-life problem. In my case, the project involved working with an investment bank on improving their services, we presented our findings to senior management at the bank and received positive feedback on our findings. “After a few years in the workplace, I relished being a student again and focused on learning as much as I could, ensuring I was well prepared for every class. I read a lot of additional material and put a lot of effort into my assignments, reaping the benefits with the grades I received. Learning something new every day was what it was all about. “Perhaps one of the greatest challenges was to unlearn some of the things I’d previously

thought and to overcome my assumptions. The MBA taught me critical and strategic thinking, to question everything and to look at problems from a broader perspective. It also taught me how to deal with challenges in the workplace in a positive way. “To anyone considering an MBA, I would say think about what you want to gain from the course before choosing the one that most suits your aims. Undertaking an MBA is an intensive experience, but a very rewarding one. The more you put into the course, the more you gain from it, so make the most of your year. “Looking back, the benefits of the MBA became most apparent around three years after I graduated – that’s when I noticed the enormous difference it had made to my employment prospects and the jobs which I was offered. An MBA helps you to stand out from other candidates. “Completing an MBA is life-changing, it’s about much more than a qualification, it informs everything you do.”

The MBA taught me critical and strategic thinking, to question everything and to look at problems from a broader perspective. It also taught me how to deal with challenges in the workplace in a positive way. Business Scotland

TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT

Building skills fit for the 21st century As the Academy of Executive Coaching (AoEC) celebrates 20 years in business, the use of coaching skills is more significant than ever for the modern workplace.

Gina Lodge

CEO, Academy of Executive Coaching

As we enter an era of business where collaboration outperforms competition as a strategy for growth and success, the use of coaching has never been more appropriate. 20 years ago, it was a different story with the coaching concept in its embryonic stages and a real lack of understanding about it, both socially and in business. Back then, our founder John Leary-Joyce saw that executive coaching was a natural fit with his existing leadership and team facilitation work and began to work in the field. It is in his vision that the company’s origins lie, as he realised that while foundational courses were available, no professional training took coaches into the deeper psychological area while applying it in a business context. Coaching is now universally accepted as a proven leadership and management development tool, but it is only recently that coaching is being cascaded through businesses rather than reserved for senior executives. Millions have been spent on leadership development and change programmes and businesses are realising coaching can bring more effective change at individual, team and organisational level. It is now steadily being adopted as a core leadership and management skill as leadership styles move away from the hero leader model to one of autonomy and inclusion. Coaching has gone mainstream because it is no longer regarded as just a remedial tool. Organisations are understanding how it helps high performers reach new heights, supports them through challenging times and focuses on the principles of adult learning by enabling their people to set their own learning agenda and try new things. The pace of change is still an enormous driver in the need for coaching as organisations increasingly find themselves

having to embrace new ways of operating in unpredictable, taxing conditions. The fourth industrial revolution is here and as companies implement new technologies to improve efficiency and reduce costs, they’re often left with the challenge of how best to use their workforces. In the wake of automation and AI, the business world is rediscovering the importance of potential and this is having a marked influence on many aspects of how companies operate and serve their stakeholders. Employers are seizing on the fact that their workforces are often their most underutilised resource and there are more meaningful ways of motivating them to perform rather than offering inflated pay and benefits packages. Many are seeing the advantages of changing the way they work and are taking measures to address this. Coaching for example is being used to improve employee engagement, build better cultures and grow individual and organisational resilience. It also provides employees with access to further learning and development opportunities, so they are able to make a more significant contribution to the business through sharper soft skills and the deeper ability to create better value for the customer. As we’ve seen over our company’s lifetime, the market is maturing both in

The Institute of Coaching cites that over 70% of individuals who receive coaching benefited from improved work performance, relationships and more effective communication skills. Source: Forbes.com

the understanding of coaching and the sophistication of the product and the audience. The trend is for more companies to bring coaching in-house to scale availability, meet demand and control costs. Progressive businesses are seeking to introduce a coaching culture where staff company-wide are trained in coaching skills in order to better lead their teams or support people management strategies more effectively. Good quality, professionally accredited coach training is more accessible than ever before, and coaching is proving its worth as organisations realise they can evaluate its demonstrable value and impact. Coaching offers a lot of positives for businesses and underpins every conceivable touch point in an organisation’s people strategy. From leaders to young professionals starting their careers, a coaching approach puts humanity back into processes and practices. It’s time to lose outdated management practices and really unlock the potential that your workforce offers.

Practitioner Diploma in Executive Coaching 10 March – 17 June 2020, Edinburgh Enabling you to become a qualified coach, this triple-accredited programme explores coaching’s key principles, develops your style and equips you with all the necessary skills to get started. www.aoecscotland.com

Business Scotland

TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT

Aberdeen Drilling School responds to client demand to deliver increased global presence Aberdeen Drilling School Ltd, part of the RelyOn Nutec group and globally recognised for its advanced drilling, well engineering and well control training, has announced the addition of four new training centres for drilling excellence in Houston, US; Bergen & Stavanger, Norway; and Ciudad del Carmen in Mexico. extensive teacher training. We also have a new regional manager in the US to further develop our client relationships throughout North and Latin America.

Aberdeen Drilling School (ADS) is responding to client-driven demand for access to consistent, high quality training worldwide with the announcement of these four new centres in the USA, Norway and Mexico. The announcement follows on from ADS’s recent acquisition of Norwegian simulation technology company Oiltec Solutions, and underlines its commitment to ensure that global clients have access to the best trainers and the best drilling technology in key markets worldwide. The four new centres announced this week will all be housed in existing RelyOn Nutec facilities – but as independent operations with their own expert teams, dedicated ADS classrooms and state-of-art technology to deliver the most advanced simulator-based

Business Scotland

Jason Grant

training available in the drilling world. Jason Grant, managing director of Aberdeen Drilling School said: “We are excited to see these new centres taking shape, and we have new instructors in Norway and Mexico undertaking

“But this is really only the start for us. With access to the RelyOn Nutec network of over 30 training centres in 20 countries, we have a great platform for further expansion. And while this will continue to be driven by client demand, we have the opportunity and the capacity to look at opening up new facilities in multiple global locations simultaneously.” For more information: info@aberdeendrilling.com +44 (0) 1224 572709 www.aberdeendrilling.com

A member of

International Enterprising Leading Local Strathclyde The final word in business education

We have been MBA pioneers since 1966, first introducing the one year full time, part time and distance learning MBAs in the UK. As a top business school within a leading international technological University and with a history of innovation in the MBA field, we understand the importance of global thinking. We continue to introduce innovative business programmes, and bespoke executive education, to suit the demands of an evolving business world. Our acclaimed MBA programme can be studied on a part time or flexible learning basis which means you don’t have to give up the day job – or travel far – to get a world class MBA.

www.strath.ac.uk/business

CHAMBER SPOTLIGHT

Celebrating Ayrshire Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce were thrilled to present the finalists for the Ayrshire Business Awards 2019 with their certificates at a Networking Breakfast on 29th August at the Carlton Hotel in Prestwick. In this 10th year of the awards, sponsored by 1825 Financial Planning, there are 15 categories and we received the highest number of applications to date. This just goes to highlight the calibre of businesses we have in Ayrshire and all the finalists are to be commended for reaching the final. The award winners will be revealed at a Gala Dinner held at Ayr Racecourse on 11th October 2019. Hosted this year by Jennifer Reoch and Edward Reid, the Gala Dinner coincides with the end of the Ayrshire Chamber Business Week which runs a variety of events across the three counties from 7th – 11th October 2019.

The 2019 Categories Developing Ayrshire’s Young Workforce Award - sponsored by 1825 Financial Planning Ayrshire’s Food & Drink Award sponsored by East Ayrshire Council Active Travel at Work Award - sponsored by Active Travel Hub Start-up Business of the Year Award sponsored by Business Gateway Apprentice of the Year Award sponsored by Woodward Growth Business of the Year Award sponsored by The RAD Group Excellence in Customer Service Award – sponsored by South Ayrshire Council Tourism Award- sponsored by University West of Scotland

Family Business Award - sponsored by North Ayrshire Council Business in the Community Award – sponsored by Ashleigh Building Scotland Employer of the Year – sponsored by Westfield Health Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award sponsored by Trump Turnberry Ayrshire’s Best Business Award (0-10 employees) - sponsored by West Coast Accelerator Ayrshire’s Best Business Award (11-50 employees) - sponsored by Media Scotland Ayrshire’s Best Business Award (51 employees or more) - sponsored by GSK

For full details of all the events and to book, please visit the Chamber website www.ayrshire-chamber.org/events

Business Scotland

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Port of Ayr celebrates new Bute Terminal opening to support Scottish agriculture The Port of Ayr has celebrated the opening of its new, state-of-the-art Bute Terminal which will help support customers in Scotland’s agricultural sector and enhance the wider economic prosperity of the region. A number of recent ABP investments in infrastructure and port handling equipment have helped secure this new multi-year contract with the leading Scottish trader of grains and animal feed raw materials, Cefetra Ltd, further strengthening its position as the agricultural trade centre for the South West of Scotland. These include the construction of the port’s new £2.2 million Bute agribulk terminal, as well as new state-of-the-art cranes and wide-ranging improvements to shore side infrastructure. The official opening ceremony saw keynote speeches by Bill Grant, MP for Ayr, Carrick and Cumnock, Andrew Harston, ABP’s Regional Director for Wales and Short Sea Ports and Andrew Mackay, CEO of Cefetra Ltd. Held in a grand marquee at the port, the event was also attended by Val Russell, CEO of the Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce as well as a mix of ABP customers. Following the speeches, guests were able to experience first-hand the new terminal, which offers 4,000sqm of storage space and will enhance the port’s customer offering. Built by 3b construction, a

Scottish, family-owned company based in Ayrshire, the terminal is part of a number of enhancements in port facilities, including new purpose-built cranes and wide-ranging improvements to shore side infrastructure. Andrew Harston, ABP’s Regional Director, Wales and Short Sea Ports, said: “We were delighted to welcome local stakeholders and customers to our port to celebrate the opening of our Bute agribulk terminal, which will enhance storage capacity and improve further the facilities we provide. This development demonstrates our ongoing commitment to supporting South West Scotland’s farming community and helping facilitate economic growth in the region.” Andrew Mackay CEO Cefetra Ltd, said: “We are pleased that we are expanding our operations in Scotland by adding the Port of Ayr as a location. This will enable us to offer our customers in the South West of Scotland a local port to source some of their key raw materials. “We appreciate the effort and commitment that ABP has shown to Scottish Agriculture by agreeing to provide a first-class, purposebuilt, facility that meets all the industry

standards and that will allow Cefetra to provide the efficient supply of key raw materials to our customers in the South West of Scotland.” The new Terminal will also result in an increase in the volumes of animal feed and foodstuffs passing through the port, which will in turn help support South West Scotland’s growing agricultural sector. Currently, the port supports a growing number of customers from the Scottish agricultural sector and it plays an important role in supporting the region’s economy. Stuart Cresswell, ABP’s Port Manager at Ayr and Troon, said: “We look forward to strengthening our partnership with Cefetra, which represents one of the most significant developments at the port for many years. The development also helps to cement the growing role that the Port of Ayr has been playing in supporting South West Scotland’s farming community.” “Our continuous investments in our ports in Scotland mean that we are equipped with the right facilities and skills to provide our customers with the highest standards of service and help grow the region’s economy.”

Business Scotland

CONNECTING SCOTLAND TO THE WORLD VIA TEESPORT FREQUENCY AND RELIABILITY POSITION TEESPORT AS A GLOBAL GATEWAY TO SCOTLAND Teesport offers more direct daily rail connections to and from Scotland than any other port in the north of England, running two daily services to Grangemouth and Mossend. With 26 vessel calls a week, Teesport allows shippers to move cargo with ease, complemented by intermodal rail connections.

For more information and to start realising the benefits of rail freight, please contact our commercial team. T: +44 (0) 1642 877000 E: enquiries@pdports.co.uk W: www.pdports.co.uk

PD PORTS

PD Ports Scoop Top Rail Freight Group Award PD Ports, one of the UK’s major port groups, has been crowned Business of the Year 2019 at the Rail Freight Group’s (RFG) annual awards ceremony. The port operator took the top prize with judges praising its outstanding commitment to its customers and to the wider local community in the North East. The judges were particularly impressed by PD Ports’ show of industry leadership in the way it promotes rail freight services, especially across the North, and by launching a second weekly service to Scotland at the business’ own financial risk. This second weekly service, known as the Teesport Express, was launched last year and combines ferry and rail to replace an alternative ferry service from Rosyth to Zeebrugge which had been withdrawn by its operator. PD Ports recognised the need to bring about an alternative solution for customers, enabling cargo to be moved more easily to Scotland, with the only existing options in addition to Teesport being to bring it by water to Felixstowe or the Humber and then completing its journey by road. Thanks to efforts by both operational and commercial teams, the rail service was commissioned within an exceptional timeframe of just six months following the cessation of the ferry service. Five years after the launch of the company’s Intermodal Rail Terminal at Teesport, the investment has taken the port from strength to strength. The port operator now offers more daily connections to Scotland than any other port in the North. The two Scotland services combined replace around 12,000 heavy goods vehicles and save approximately 4.6million road miles, resulting in a CO² reduction of 5,950 tonnes. Frans Calje, PD Ports’ CEO, said: “We are delighted to have won this award, as it highlights our promise to deliver the very best customer service, as well as our

ongoing commitment to getting more goods moving by rail. “The fact that the Teesport Express service could be commissioned so quickly demonstrates the strength of the relationships that we hold with our partners within the supply chain as we were able to influence decision-making with ferry and rail operators to get an entirely new service up and running. In addition, we were able to demonstrate a flexible approach with Network Rail Scotland to protect and enhance international trade movements.

The judges also paid tribute to PD Ports continued support to the local community when announcing the port operator as their Business of the Year. PD Ports was commended for both its internal scheme ‘Find It Fund It’ which helps staff support their chosen local charities, as well as for its partnership with Stockton Riverside College to establish and support the Logistics Academy – an initiative which encourages training and upskilling to current staff and the local population.

“We continue to expand and strengthen our rail freight offering as it provides vital UK connections for our customers and delivers environmental and cost saving benefits.

The awards were presented by the awards’ sponsor John Smith, MD of GB Railfreight (GBRf), and Simon Coppen of Burgess Salmon at a dinner held on 12 September at the De Vere Latimer Estate Hotel, Chesham.

“Our partnerships with businesses such as DB Cargo ECS Containers and P&O Ferries have laid the foundation for us to integrate our services, allowing us to offer faster and more frequent transit between Scotland and the continent to benefit our customers.

Maggie Simpson, RFG Executive Director, said: “We continue to be amazed by the excellent and innovative work done by the member of the Rail Freight Group and are pleased to be able to recognise some of them through these awards.”

“Customer care is the lifeblood of our business and is embedded in every department, location and function across the UK. As a business we acknowledge that without our customers we wouldn’t operate, and we do everything within our power to help them be successful, profitable and secure their own futures as well as ours.”

The Rail Freight Group is the representative body for the rail freight industry in the UK. The annual awards acknowledge outstanding contributions in seeking solutions to increase the volume of goods moving by rail. www.pdports.co.uk

Business Scotland

INFRASTRUCTURE & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Responsive ICT Services in an ever-changing business world Multi-award-winning Dacoll celebrates 50 prosperous years of trading

Ours is an economic climate where many small businesses have Brexit jitters and other are finding it hard to compete against the big corporates. But, in contrast, one small Scottish company is looking forward to celebrating 50 prosperous years of trading in the IT service sector. Dacoll Limited is a multi-award-winning IT Managed Services company that operates globally from an unassuming head office in Bathgate and has done so since 1972. The company’s big break had come three years earlier, when Chairman Brian Colling spotted an opportunity to provide mainframe computer support to Glasgow University when bigger players in the field had passed it up. This was followed by other landmark contracts that assured the company’s foothold in the digital market-place. In the present day, Dacoll’s clients now include high-profile customers across Public, Commercial and Retail market places. Yet, Dacoll remains an unashamedly family business. Three generations of the Chairman’s family currently work in Dacoll’s offices today, and it’s not unusual amongst staff to see parents and offspring pass each other in the corridor. Many people have worked there for twenty years and some, for thirty years and more. Among their number are senior personnel who are experts in their fields, from manufacturing, to software development and service provision. It’s this formula that Managing Director Allan Everington believes has distinguished Dacoll from its potential rivals. “There is a recognisable ethos that permeates our people in the company that’s very different from our contemporaries. At its core there is entrepreneurship, following a good idea through and an overall commitment to positive values. Those values have come right from Dacoll’s leadership, and its foundations as a family business. “Our customers recognise this too, and this results in successful long-term business relationships – often spanning decades.” Dacoll was a finalist in the Family Business of the Year Awards in 2017, was named Business of the Year in 2016 and has since won several awards that recognise its growth and the effort it puts into

Business Scotland

staff training, development, and career progression. There’s a distinct emphasis on enabling staff, and getting them to the role that fits best. To make this happen, and to sustain their current growth in new markets, the Company has prioritised training and development to help staff to take on new roles and identify emergent skills. It’s an environment that has attracted a skilled senior team, who in turn have helped Dacoll identify opportunities in fresh markets across the IT Managed Service sector. Strong customer focus, expertise, sound values, and investment in its people has taken the Company far in their first half century. Dacoll are now a leading global marketer and manufacturer of Information Technology Managed Services, Software Applications, Network Infrastructure installation, Cabling and Electrical contracting and are the largest independent provider of IT Services in Scotland today. Dacoll now have a global reach, with customers from Ireland through to Portugal, Scandinavia, Australia, America, Singapore, Tunisia, Afghanistan, and more. It’s a far cry from their beginnings in ‘breakfix’ IT maintenance and manufacture, the core activities of the business until recent years. Since 2015, Dacoll’s strategic move out of IT maintenance and into profitable, long-term managed services provision has paid dividends, attracting high profile customers who often choose the SME over the larger corporates. Such clients, like anybody, are looking for cost-effective and high-quality services, but – crucially – seek the added agility that SMEs provide to get things done quickly and effectively. But what makes Dacoll particularly agile when pitted against its competitors? Simply put, Dacoll has been able to wrap up its inherited expertise in manufacture and electricals with its cutting-edge skills in IT maintenance, to provide a seamless service that few can rival. Unlike competitors, Dacoll Group can offer an end-to-end solution for clients that’s unique in the market place. Avoiding the expense and complexity of corporate systems integrators, Dacoll Group provides the hardware, the software, and the people to make it work as one package. It’s an innovative delivery model

that has given Dacoll a valuable edge in a fast-moving marketplace. What’s more, with all manufacture taking place in its own premises, there’s an added assurance for those clients who are nervous about Brexit unknowns. However, it’s perhaps Dacoll’s IT Managed Services that is the brightest feather in the company’s cap, offering other SMEs the ability to perform at peak without the expense of an in-house IT Service Desk. Far from just ‘keeping computers running’, Dacoll ensures that its clients have the IT resource they need, not just to manage and maintain their systems, but to undertake those strategic IT initiatives that will help those businesses continue to prosper in the future. In keeping with their positive values, Dacoll’s IT Service Desk is a busy place that’s open 24/7, manned by real people with years of experience, who take time on their calls both to understand and to address their client’s issue, right from the HQ. In addition, a fleet of engineers provides hands-on reach throughout the UK, arriving at their client’s premises when a manual fix is the answer. It’s a face to face, very human, tailored service delivery model that other IT services often lack, and it’s entirely in keeping with the company ethos, and the legacy of Dacoll’s own journey. So, what’s in store for Dacoll in the next 50 years? The company has never lost sight of the fact that business transformation and prosperity is delivered by its people first, so investment in training and development will be a cornerstone for future plans. And as for its clients, Dacoll will continue to be an innovative, approachable, responsive and reliable provider in an ever-changing business world. Doing the right thing. Every day. For more information on how Dacoll can help your business, contact www.dacollgroup.co.uk or email sales@dacoll.co.uk

INFRASTRUCTURE & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

ARGYLL AND BUTE ECONOMIC STRATEGY

A prosperous and inclusive economy lies at the heart of Argyll and Bute Council’s priorities and this is reflected in the Argyll and Bute Outcome Improvement Plan 2013 – 2023 that has been agreed with the Scottish Government. With new opportunities and challenges now presenting themselves through a number of economic drivers, such as the urgent need for business innovation and investment, increased mobility in the workforce, a rising living wage, rapidly changing digital technology and new public sector interventions such as the emerging Rural Growth Deal. There is now a compelling need for a new Argyll and Bute Economic Strategy that focusses on Argyll and Bute’s key priorities, and takes account of the resources Argyll and Bute Council have available including working with our strategic partners.

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To find out more information, please visit:

https://www.argyll-bute.gov.uk/council-and-goverment/plans-policies-and-key-documents

1Are you a Scottish Company? Do you want to improve your

company’s digital capacity, capabilities or workforce skills?

Why not apply for a Digital Development Loan?

• Interest Free

• Up to 5 years repayment terms

• Loan amounts from £5k - £100k • No early repayment fees

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Check eligibility and apply online at www.digitaldevelopmentloan.org

Business Scotland

Creating a secure environment for business trading With over 1.2 million Scots employed by SMEs, they are at the heart of our communities offering critical employment and training opportunities. Although our businesses can safeguard us, they can also expose us. Cyber-attacks are on the increase and falling victim to one can have devastating consequences for an SME, with many unable to recover from loss of trading.

help businesses assess, build and manage their cyber security capabilities, and respond to incidents and crises. Our services are designed to help build confidence, understand threats and make business environments more secure.

The Scottish Business Resilience Centre (SBRC) is a not-for-profit organisation which exists to support businesses of all shapes and sizes to enhance their ability to continue to trade in the event of disruption.

Although we’ve seen a positive trend towards increasing levels of cyber-security awareness, cyber-attacks are becoming ever more sophisticated and that’s where we can help businesses protect themselves.

Our unique connection to Police Scotland, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, and the Scottish Government gives us exclusive access to the latest information on legislation and criminal trends and threats, allowing us to provide the very best resilience advice to help Scottish businesses safeguard their operations, their customers and their staff.

Our teams deliver cyber security awarenessraising sessions, presentations and workshops across Scotland, signposting communities to free resources and toolkits.

Only by being aware of the possible risks, can businesses be prepared and bounce back should the worst happen.

over the past few years, with the aim of informing all sectors of our communities on how to raise and maintain their levels of digital resilience.

In addition to resilience advice, our cyber services offering has developed significantly

At SBRC we provide a comprehensive range of integrated cyber security services that

If we could help your business and you would like to learn more, please contact enquiries@sbrcentre.co.uk or visit our website www.sbrcentre.co.uk

PROFESSIONAL LANGUAGE SERVICES • INTERPRETING • TRANSLATION • TRANSCRIPTION • WEBSITE LOCALISATION • VOICE OVERS • LANGUAGE TUITION • LINGUIST TRAINING

mail@globallanguageservices.co.uk Craig House, 64 Darnley Street, Glasgow G41 2SE

Tel / Fax: 0141 429 3429 Edinburgh Office - 0131 220 0115 Inverness Office – 01463 258839 www.globalglasgow.com

Business Scotland

COUNTESSWELLS DEVELOPMENT LIMITED

Finding the perfect work-life balance at Countesswells With almost a third of UK workers claiming to suffer from a poor work-life balance, the need for a tranquil, green environment in which to live and escape the pressures and everyday stresses of working life has never been greater. Eye-opening research on work-life balance conducted by HR technology provider, ADP, found over a third of European workers felt a bad day at work affected their personal life. With the proportion rising to 38% in the UK. In a world full of smart technology where it can be hard to switch off, a healthy work-life balance is increasingly difficult to achieve but finding the right balance is vital to longterm health and well-being. With many employers seeking to address the challenge in their workplaces, developers are beginning to factor this into the design and build of new communities. Countesswells, a new community to the west of Aberdeen, has been carefully designed with work-life balance in mind.

Space to relax Backed by a HM Treasury Guarantee, that enabled significant up-front investment in the landscaping and infrastructure, Countesswells has been designed to be not only, one of the greenest and most attractive places to live in Aberdeen, but also a place where residents can relax and enjoy the outdoors in either formal or informal green spaces and woodland. This focus on creating the perfect place in which to live, work and play has led to the

creation of extensive landscaping, including the planting of over 600 trees and new species of plants, a wildflower meadow, a community orchard and an award-winning children’s playpark. A network of new paths to encourage walkers, cyclists and horse-riders has also improved the connectivity of the two woods on either side of the development. With these unique spaces in which to relax or explore, the community is encouraged to take part in outdoor activity and exercise – allowing residents to stretch their legs and enjoy the fresh air after a hard day’s work. A selection of special events and activities for residents include bespoke farmers markets and wildlife exploration days, keeping families entertained and engaged – right on their doorstep. The new green spaces and introduction of new species of plants has attracted a host of new wildlife, increasing the biodiversity on the site, which has also proved to have a positive impact on health and well-being. The benefits of gardening on mental health are widely recognised, with studies suggesting that regular gardening can reduce problems like depression and anxiety, whilst combatting stress and high blood pressure. Countesswell’s community orchard

provides a communal space, owned by the community, where residents can plant, nurture and prune their own fruit trees.

Flexibility for the modern worker Working trends and patterns are also evolving with Millenials and Gen Z’ers driving organisational change to create workplaces which are more flexible. Dress down days and work-from-home policies are now the norm. The super-fast broadband installed throughout Countesswells promotes flexible and home-working to further improve work-life balance. The connectivity and speed – 35 times faster than the national average - make home working more feasible for residents who can reliably and securely carry out their work in the comfort of their own home. The focus on countryside living close to the city, with extensive, new green spaces connected to mature woodland, an increase in biodiversity and the traditional community activies and values from bygone days alongside everything required for modern living, make Countesswells the ideal place to achieve the perfect work-life balance. For more details about Countesswells, please visit: www.countesswells.com

Business Scotland

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

West Lothian Development Huge expansion for Winchburgh The village of Winchburgh is set to be transformed thanks to a massive investment in new schools, new homes and vital infrastructure. West Lothian Council, the Scottish Government and West Coast Capital’s Winchburgh Developments Limited (WDL) have reached a landmark shared agreement that will unlock development at one of the largest sites in Scotland. This will allow huge investment estimated at a value of over £1 billion over 20 years to take place to grow Winchburgh, providing a major jobs boost for the West Lothian and Scottish economy. This will include: a number of new stateof-the-art schools; around 3,450 new

The scale of the work will create many opportunities for local businesses and workers to benefit, providing a welcome boost to the local economy.

Business Scotland

homes, including over 700 affordable homes and more than 400 for social rent; a new M9 junction to open up prime employment land; a railway station; a 75 acre district park; and a canal marina.

right development in the right place and will help meet the demand for people looking to find a home for their family or business in West Lothian, which is one of the fastest growing areas in Scotland.

Recent developments include plans for the 75-acre Auldcathie District Park, a new marina in conjunction with Scottish Canals and a deal with Robertson Homes to deliver new homes as part of the plan to build 1,000 by 2025.

“West Lothian already has one of the best school estates in the country, giving a platform to help our young people achieve their full potential and support life-long learning for the whole community.”

Executive councillor for development and transport Cathy Muldoon said: “It’s fantastic to see so much investment in Winchburgh from both the public and private sector. “The scale of the work will create many opportunities for local businesses and workers to benefit, providing a welcome boost to the local economy.” West Lothian Council to make their largest ever single capital investment in Winchburgh, with the delivery of the new schools programme. Executive councillor for education David Dodds said: “Winchburgh represents the

John Hamilton, CEO, Winchburgh Developments Limited, added: “The masterplan for Winchburgh goes far beyond building new homes. “This is set to be one of the most exciting placemaking projects in the UK, which will bring new education facilities, a significant number of permanent jobs, and improved transport links to the area.” For further information, visit www.winchburghvillage.co.uk

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Photo credit: Stewart Attwood

Matugga Distillers taps into a strong entrepreneurial spirit to deepen local connections and win new international partnerships West Lothian Chamber of Commerce member, Matugga Distillers Ltd, opened the only dedicated rum distillery in central Scotland last year. Bringing together a vibrant fusion of African and Caribbean heritage alongside Scottish distilling craft, Matugga Distillers’ new Livingston home provides an exciting opportunity for the company to expand the production and distribution of its award-winning rums. Owning a rum distillery was always part of the plan for husband and wife team Paul and Jacine Rutasikwa. So much so that they left successful careers in civil engineering and corporate marketing behind and relocated their young family from England to Scotland to turn their dreams into reality. Their aim has always been to combine rum’s distinguished heritage with high quality natural ingredients and modern micro distillery craft to create exceptional spirits. Today, the team oversees the entire production of its handcrafted spirits – from fermentation and distilling to hand-bottling on site. Head distiller, Paul, a graduate of HeriotWatt University’s world-renowned course in Brewing and Distilling, is passionate about the emerging Scottish rum scene and recently became the first ever representative from a dedicated rum distillery on the

Scottish Distillers Association board. Utilising four hard-working 200-litre copper pot stills, Paul crafts every batch of rum from scratch. The Matugga Rum range features multi-award-winning Masala Chai spiced and cask-aged golden rums while earlier this year the company launched its limited-release Mavuno 2018 – an exceptional acacia cask-finished rum distilled using specially-selected East African sugar cane molasses. Mavuno (which means ‘harvest’ in Swahili) showcases the distillery’s mission to create atypical flavours and new styles and earned a silver medal in the prestigious 2019 Rum & Cachaça Masters awards. Although Scotland is home to more than 150 distilleries, Matugga Distillers is one of just a few flying the flag for small-batch Scottish rum. Yet, Scotland has a deep rum heritage, dating back to the 17th century when Glasgow was a hub for rum production. Rum’s popularity is growing too. According to the Wine and Spirit Trade Association, UK rum sales surpassed £1 billion for the first time in 2018, with around 35 million bottles sold. As demand for high-quality rum increases across the UK, Matugga Distillers has carefully blended its local and international marketing strategies. In the home market,

the company recently won a regional product listing in the Co-op’s Scottish spirits range. On the international front, it continues to export healthy volumes to Europe while developing plans to enter new territories including East Africa and North America. At the same time, Matugga Distillers is building a formidable local network, developing strong links with West Lothian College, Livingston Football Club, Macdonald Houston House Hotel and The Larder Cook School. The team has also moved into food and drink tourism through distillery tours and tastings and will shortly be launching a new brand with a local resonance called Liv Rum. The Liv Rum range features artisanal white rums and has already picked up international recognition with a silver medal in the 2019 International Wine & Spirit Competition. Although the road ahead may be uncertain for many craft distilleries, Matugga Distillers is building success with an approach that embraces both local and international markets. The company is also living proof of what can be accomplished by entrepreneurial women and men ‘adopted’ by Scotland. For more information visit www.matuggarum.com or email info@matuggarum.com.

Business Scotland

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STIRLING VENUES

EVENTS CONFERENCES ACCOMMODATION

in the heart of Scotland Our stunning conference campus is close to all major cities and airports, making your delegates travel quick and hassle-free

All surplus generated from your event with us will be invested into our student experience. Holding your event with us, is investing in future employees. Call our experienced sales team today to discuss your next event. Tel: 01786 466000 or visit stirlingvenues.com/business-corporate

University of Stirling Venues is a sub-brand of the University of Stirling. Scottish Charity No: SC011159

CONFERENCES AND EVENTS

When it comes to meeting and conference facilities in central Scotland, University of Stirling Venues is the professional planner’s choice. Reassuringly consistent, our award-winning team will work closely with you to plan and deliver on everything from private board meetings and working lunches, to large scale conferences and exhibitions.

Set into 330 acres of stunning grounds, you will find a venue that exceeds expectation on all levels and allows you to connect with ease. Boasting a wide range of quality, award-winning lecture theatres, conference spaces and meeting rooms, as well as options for private dining, exhibitions and breakout seminars, our conference options are as extensive and diverse as our varied clients’ needs. As well as enjoying the flexibility of these inspiring spaces, conference clients at University of Stirling Venues benefit from an exemplary level of customer service, thanks to our knowledgeable and experienced corporate team. From initial enquiry through to event delivery, you will be looked after by one dedicated account manager who will work with you to ensure your conference delivers a memorable experience for your delegates and visitors, and produces positive results in line with your business objectives. “University of Stirling Venues staff were fantastic from the outset, the planning started just over a year in advance of the conference and we had regular update

meetings and were offered advice and shared experiences of different options. When the actual conference arrived, we had a meeting with the hotel staff to run through the conference to ensure everyone was fully briefed. For this particular conference it was the first time it was held in Scotland. The feedback received was overwhelming, positive comments from the executive members as well as the conference delegates.” L Macinnes - MeCCSA 2019

Forward-thinking, innovative and resourceful, our team’s aim is to make your conference stress-free and enjoyable; that’s why you can choose from a selection of pre-set conference packages with easy-tounderstand pricing options, or contact us to request a bespoke approach with a fully itemised and budgeted quote.

Key Information Why Choose University of Stirling Venues as your Conference Campus in Scotland?

Within easy reach of international airports, Stirling rail station and Scotland’s main road network A bespoke conference hotel with 100 comfortable, quality bedrooms Plentiful space, parking and flexibility to comfortably host from 20 to 2000 delegates Executive Chef and team to create an impressive range of dining options Rest and relaxation options including team building fun, on campus cinema, theatre and sports facilities. Beautiful surroundings, impressive venues and a backdrop highlighting Stirling’s important place in Scotland’s history, there really is no better location to connect in the heart of Scotland. To discuss your requirements, call us on 01786 466000 or visit stirlingvenues.com/business-corporate now for more information.

11 large lecture theatres, 70 seminar rooms and 26 conference and meeting rooms

Business Scotland

Just Rock Up

The Scottish Event Campus just got a wee bit better. A new contemporary space to host your meetings at Scotlandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s national event destination. A bright, modern space, creating the perfect environment to educate and share. State of the art technology, nourishing food, all the benefits of an experienced event team, and situated in the heart of Glasgow. All you need to do is turn up. To find out more about how to host a meeting for 100 delegates or more, please do drop us a line, Glenda.Carlyle@sec.co.uk or Emma.Richards@sec.co.uk. Alternatively, you can pop in for a site visit. The kettle is always on.

+44 (0)141 275 6232 | secmeetingacademy@sec.co.uk | sec.co.uk/secmeetingacademy

CONFERENCES AND EVENTS

2020 FIXTURES APRIL

Wednesday 22 Thursday 23 Friday 24

Perth Festival

MAY

Wednesday 13 (evening) Thursday 14

Ladies Day

JUNE

Sunday 7 Saturday 20

Gold Cup BRAW! Raceday

JULY

Thursday 2 Sunday 12 Tuesday 28 (evening) Wednesday 29

Family Raceday -

AUGUST

Saturday 15

Summer Carnival

SEPTEMBER

Monday 7 Wednesday 23 Thursday 24

Autumn Raceday Glorious Finale Glorious Finale

Tickets, Restaurant & Hospitality Packages available from October 2019

01738 551 597 | perth-races.co.uk

Looking for a private party night to reward your team for a great year? Glasgow Science Centre has the answer. Private parties for between 80-160 guests available in the base of the Glasgow Tower. Dates available throughout December.

£65PP

Shared Party Nights are also available. Spaces are limited - book now.

£60PP

Speak to our team today to book a Christmas party you won’t forget. Call 0141 420 5005 or email: christmas@glasgowsciencecentre.org glasgowsciencecentre.org/christmas-parties Did you know? GSC is an educational charity; by booking a Christmas Party night with us, you help us to provide amazing experiences for young people and communities in Glasgow and across Scotland.

Business Scotland

MEMBER PROFILE

Paul Kingham and Mary Ann Smith

A property business with a social conscience “Socially-minded” is not how some would characterise the private property sector but a Dunbartonshire business is doing its best to change that perception. Kingsmith Property have created an innovative model for property development and investment in Scotland with social responsibility at its heart. Kingsmith Property was set up by Mary Ann Smith and Paul Kingham in 2017 after identifying the opportunity for a private sector business to provide meaningful solutions to some of the current housing issues. Both Mary Ann and Paul are from a public service backgrounds. Paul, a Chartered Accountant, had worked in private practice

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and the NHS before being seconded to the Scottish Housing Regulator as Head of Planning and Performance. Mary Ann was an Organisational Development Consultant and qualified Executive Coach practising within the NHS and private sectors across Scotland. Through their work with people who faced complex social challenges they realised that, without access to good quality homes, interventions were never as effective as they could be. Paul’s work for the Scottish Housing Regulator also highlighted the disparity

between the high standards of practice in social housing and the lack of anything similar in the private sector: “On the one hand social housing provides high quality provision to some of society’s most vulnerable groups. On the other, in the private rental sector, we saw lots of social and political barriers that limited access to the same quality of homes for many individuals and families’. “The private sector can be inaccessible to many people - a situation that can be exacerbated by complex and challenging

MEMBER PROFILE

life events. This, coupled with the drop in the amount of social housing and lack of legislative impact, often results in restricted and poor quality housing choices for these groups.” Mary Ann and Paul come from business development and change management backgrounds which means they are always looking for opportunities to do things differently and to innovate. This led them to set up Kingsmith Property as what they describe as a “socially minded property development and investment company” to try and solve some of the current housing problems. Mary Ann explains Kingsmith’s corporate vision: “We want to set a benchmark for the private rental sector by making homes available that share the high standards that underpin the social housing sector. We have an intimate understanding of the importance of providing those people facing complex social challenges with somewhere that is safe and secure and feels like home. We want to do something to tackle some of the inequalities and inconsistencies instead of just talking about them.” Since setting the company up Mary Ann and Paul have focused on building their own knowledge, skills and competence as well as building relationships with likeminded individuals and organisations. One of their first partnerships was with the social enterprise, Homes for Good, to take on the full management of some of Kingsmith’s rental properties so they

could provide effective support for all their tenants, especially during those difficult times in life. They continue to widen their network with other organisations such as Shelter Scotland, Housing Associations and via a range of business networks including Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce. Kingsmith now provides a full range of endto-end services from Property Investment, Property Sourcing and Project Management to Coaching and Mentoring to enable clients to develop their own capabilities. They have a growing number of international and UK clients, who help support their social mission.

Mary Ann adds: “Simply by using our services all our clients help us fulfil our corporate objectives and the social responsibility aligned with these. What is really satisfying is that, as we develop relationships with clients, their understanding and value of these other social benefits increases.” People and skills are also a priority for the business that currently has a core team of five. Kingsmith are developing an apprenticeship scheme and provide work experience opportunities as part of Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce “Building Bridges” Skills Programme. Additionally, the business has provided mentoring for two graduates and paid internships. With the recent appointment of a General Manager, Kingsmith continue to build their capabilities and a momentum that has seen 32 empty homes brought back into the private rental market in the last 18 months. Kingsmith’s plans are to continue to grow the business over the next 5 years and to create 23 full time jobs to help provide “1000 homes for 1000 families in Scotland by 2030”. To find out more about Kingsmith Property visit kingsmithproperty.com

Our aim is to provide 1000 homes for 1000 families in Scotland by 2030 by seeking and building partnerships with like-minded people and organisations. Mary Ann Smith, Founder, Kingsmith Property.

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NEWS CONFERENCES AND EVENTS

Inspiring meetings. House for an Art Lover is a truly special venue for your corporate meeting or event, with delicious menus prepared freshly by our in-house chefs. Our luxury suites and meeting rooms come with all the technology you would expect, and at House for an Art Lover you can relax and be assured that, with us, business truly is a pleasure. FREE ONSITE PARKING / GREAT MOTORWAY ACCESS / WIFI

DAY DELEGATE RATES - FROM £28pp T: 0141 483 1600 E: EVENTS@HOUSEFORANARTLOVER.CO.UK W: WWW.HOUSEFORANARTLOVER.CO.UK

Technology and Innovation Centre Our flagship research hub offers flexible, award-winning conference and meeting facilities for up to 600 delegates, all year round. Located in the heart of Glasgow, we’re within easy reach of transport networks, hotels and the bars and restaurants of the vibrant Merchant City.

on venue hire when you quote

‘ScotCham’*

www.strath.ac.uk/conferencingandevents 0141 553 4148 conferenceglasgow@strath.ac.uk * Offer applies to enquiries made before 31st October 2019, for meetings taking place not later than 29th February 2020.

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CONFERENCES AND EVENTS

Weddings • Conferences • Parties • Christmas • Exhibitions For further information please email enquiries@hamilton-park.co.uk or give the team a call on 01698 283806

HPRC Prestige Advert 185x120.indd 1

01/07/2019 14:25

CORPORATE EVENTS AT

HISTORIC BLAIR CASTLE

Blair Castle makes an exciting alternative to hotels and conference centres with the perfect mix of indoor and outdoor spaces to suit any event. Situated 90 minutes from Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness it is right at the heart of Scotland. The Castle ballroom is an easily adaptable space for celebratory events, meetings, product launches and team building events. Use the private castle green for team building activities such as falconry, mini highland games or clay pigeon shooting. Go further afield on the estate and use the shooting range, extensive walking trails for orienteering, take a tractor tour round the farms or join up with onsite Segway Ecosse for a Segway tour of the local area. All events are tailor-made to your specification so dont hesitate to get in touch to discuss your next event.

Tel: 01796 481207 Julias@blair-castle.co.uk www.blair-castle.co.uk

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NEWS CONFERENCES AND EVENTS

Blair Castle nestled in the Perthshire Countryside is the perfect away day venue for team building and celebrations. 90 minutes from Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness and with direct train routes it is very easy to access.

ld” or .” W K the e U. 19 n a i th 20 Sp pa in rds e id S wa rys tion pa A t n a ou stin ry S C u est st De Lux B “ Be rld “ o W

The castle is flexible and has a number of options for meetings, incentive groups, gala dinners and product launches. The ballroom holding up to 230 people for large celebrations has open fires and great acoustics and offers a warm atmospheric room for the grandest of celebrations. In contrast the Banvie Hall is a glass contemporary space perfect for product launches and drinks parties and also acts as a holding area for the ballroom, an easy space to transform for any occasion. The Library offers a traditional boardroom that can seat up to 12 comfortably, a great room to meet before going out into the estate for activities.

games, clay pigeon shooting and falconry displays can be done on the private West Lawn with the Castle as the backdrop. Or go further afield into the hills on over 40 miles of waymarked trails where treasure hunting and orienteering can be arranged.

The immediate Castle gardens and wider estate offers various spaces for outdoor teambuilding activities. Traditional highland

Julias@blair-castle.co.uk – 01796 481 207 more information found at www.blair-castle.co.uk

All events at the Castle are bespoke and accompanied by catering tailor-made to your specification. From welcome bacon rolls to a 3 course sit down dinner the possibilities are endless. If you are looking for a unique venue with Scottish Heritage running through its veins then Blair Castle is the place for your next event. For a bespoke quote contact the team today:

The Perfect Christmas Present

The Gift Voucher www.stobocastle.co.uk Tel: 01721 725300 reservations@stobocastle.co.uk Stobo Castle Health Spa, Stobo, Peeblesshire EH45 8NY

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Half Day Visit Including: Lunch or Afternoon Tea From £69 Revive Spa Day Including: Relaxing Water Massage & Lunch From £99

CONFERENCES AND EVENTS NEWS

Conferencing - Meetings Corporate Events Team Building Award-winning 4* Country House Hotel in the heart of Perthshire.

01350 727771 / www.dunkeldhousehotel.co.uk

ONE ISLAND TWO DISTILLERIES Lochranza Distillery

ISLE OF ARRAN DISTILLERS ARE EXPANDING. VISIT THE PICTURESQUE LOCHRANZA DISTILLERY AND BRAND NEW LAGG DISTILLERY ON THE BEAUTIFUL ISLE OF ARRAN. In 1995, Isle of Arran Distillers revived whisky distilling on the island with the building of a brand-new distillery in the village of Lochranza, situated in the north. Twenty-four years later and whisky distillation is now also being brought back to the south of the island with the opening of Lagg Distillery. During the 1800s, the south-end of the island was a hotbed of illegal farm distilleries and casks would be

Business ScotlandAdvertorial.indd 1

smuggled off the shores in small boats headed for the mainland. The Distilling Team at Lagg Distillery will be under the watchful eye of Graham Omand, the nephew and protégé of Isle of Arran Master Distiller James MacTaggart, who has been running operations in Lochranza since 2008. Graham will oversee the production of a heavily peated Single Malt Scotch whisky which will be earthy and rich in character. The Distillery at Lochranza will continue to produce the un-peated, award winning The Arran Single Malt range.

The Distillery Visitor Centre in Lochranza has become one of the most visited attractions on the island with hourly tours of the distillery as well as a welcoming café and well stocked gift shop. Lagg will also be open to visitors, offering them the chance to tour the new Distillery and relax in the Café & bar which have panoramic views of the Ayrshire Coast and Kintyre Peninsula.

For more information about tours visit us at: arranwhisky.com laggwhisky.com

Lagg Distillery Opening Summer 2019

10/06/2019 14:56

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MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Edinburgh announced as winning applicant for global cities CAN B initiative Following an intensive selection process, Edinburgh has been announced as one of four cities to join the prestigious Global Cities CAN B programme. Alongside Barcelona in Spain, Cordoba in Argentina and Asuncion in Paraguay, Edinburgh, the first city in the UK to be selected, now joins a global movement of cities working to be increasingly more sustainable, prosperous, inclusive and resilient. Cities in the programme look to address the challenges laid down in the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by making significant progress towards their ambitious targets for 2030. Together they look to cultivate collaborative networks locally and globally, engaging the private sector in the city’s challenges, whilst harnessing its entrepreneurial and innovative potential. They are supported by the wider Cities CAN B movement, which is on hand to offer both practical support and advice. 14 cities applied for the programme on this occasion, with four being successful. Existing cities in the programme include Mendoza, Rio de Janeiro and Santiago. Edinburgh’s bid saw a number of leading entities in the city work together to submit the successful application, led by the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce.

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Commenting, Ewan Aitken, Chair of the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce Inspiring Communities group and CEO of Cyrenians, said: “Scotland was one of the first nations to adopt the SDGs into its own National Performance Framework, so as one of the key drivers of our country’s economic growth, Edinburgh has to lead by example. We now have a fantastic opportunity to take a globally recognised model of better sustainability and implement it here. “For too long, we have divided different sectors into silos, with the end result being that the private sector, public sector and third sector compete against each other, rather than collaborating and becoming more than the sum of their parts. Now we can change that. Edinburgh is already a great place to live and work and Cities CAN B is a great opportunity for us to make it even better.” Commenting, Jane Clark-Hutchison, President of the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce, said: “We are all increasingly aware of the need to adopt more sustainable practices to meet the challenges of the 21st century, which is why the SDGs laid out in 2015 were so

welcome. The next stage was to work out the practical steps and actions that we can take to meet such ambitious, yet necessary, goals. “Cities CAN B is an outstanding, forwardlooking programme that drives this agenda forward and we at the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce are delighted that our city has been selected for inclusion. We want to make Edinburgh the best place to do business and a truly socially inclusive city. We will now look to bring together communities and businesses across Edinburgh to turn these ambitions into reality.”

CHAMBER SPOTLIGHT

Circular Glasgow - the story so far The Glasgow Chamber of Commerce initiative has launched an interactive visual platform mapping Circular Glasgow’s journey to date and highlighting the various steps needed to begin a city’s transition towards a circular economy. Showcasing the significant progress that has been made towards achieving a fully circular economy, the website details the achievements so far, future trends and opportunities for businesses. Circular Glasgow Story So Far aims to inspire other cities, businesses and individuals to take action, form new collaborations and adopt circular economy principles within their own organisations, and to encourage a new wave of innovative businesses to join the next phase of work. “With over half of the global population now living in cities, where around 75% of resources are consumed, cities are key to adopting a circular economy.” In 2015, Glasgow took its first steps in creating a stronger more sustainable economy by completing a pioneering

Circle City Scan. Commissioned through a partnership led by Glasgow Chamber of Commerce with global experts Circle Economy from the Netherlands, Zero Waste Scotland and Glasgow City Council, the scan showed that adopting circularity can spike job creation, increase resource efficiency and reduce CO2 emissions throughout the city. Through analysing Glasgow’s economic and political landscape and by mapping the city’s resource flows from consumption to waste, the scan identified leading industries through which the city’s economy can become more ‘circular.’ The study also brought into focus ways the Chamber, via its Circular Glasgow initiative, could directly support local organisations in adopting circular models; including new collaborations, market opportunities,

significant financial savings and generating increased profits. Working in partnership with Zero Waste Scotland, Glasgow City Council and Circle Economy in the Netherlands, Circular Glasgow’s work to date has received global recognition and helped to position Glasgow as a pioneering circular economy city. It moves into the next phase of its business engagement work through a new partnership with Zero Waste Scotland and its other partners, funded by the European Regional Development Fund. For more information, please visit http://story.circularglasgow.com or to learn more about what your business can do to get involved please contact Lisa McConnell at lisa.mcconnell@ glasgowchamberofcommerce.com

With over half of the global population now living in cities, where around 75% of resources are consumed, cities are key to adopting a circular economy. Business Scotland

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CHAMBER NEWS

Hazel Moffat

Sarah Medcraf

Scottish Chamber Network’s Influential Women The Chamber Network’s leading businesswomen secure top accolades at the Scottish Women’s Awards 2019

for the award, said: “I’m delighted - it was a really strong category of women from across Scotland. It was an absolute honour to be shortlisted and to be awarded the accolade is really special to me.”

Moray Chamber of Commerce Chief Executive Sarah Medcraf, Dundee and Angus Chief Executive Alison Henderson and SCC Director and Partner of law firm DLA Piper, Hazel Moffat were recognised for their outstanding contributions to business as inspiring female leaders in Scotland.

Scottish Chambers of Commerce Chief Executive Dr Liz Cameron OBE congratulated both the winners and finalists at the Ceremony, in particular extending her congratulations to Hazel, Sarah and Alison, saying: “It is worth highlighting that there is plenty of evidence to show that emphasis on diversity is key to business and economic success. SCC would like to see more female role models such as those we are highlighting today to inspire an inclusive style of leadership in business and civic Scotland. SCC is dedicated to playing its part in supporting the current and next generation of female business leaders and these awards will act as further inspiration for us all.”

More than 300 people attended the ceremony held on Wednesday 28th August at the Glasgow Crowne Plaza Hotel, representing a range of sectors including business, sport and technology. Sarah Medcraf collected the key award of the night - Women of Influence - while

Hazel Moffat received the Services to Law award for the second year in a row.

Alison Henderson, left, and Sarah Medcraf

Alison Henderson was a finalist in the same category. Sarah, who has no idea who nominated her

I’m delighted - it was a really strong category of women from across Scotland. It was an absolute honour to be shortlisted and to be awarded the accolade is really special to me. Sarah Medcraf

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CHAMBER SPOTLIGHT

Investment in the north-east of Scotland on the rise A report capturing the scale of infrastructure projects planned for the North-east of Scotland reveals that £10.1bn of public and private investment is due to be delivered to benefit the region before 2030. Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce’s Investment Tracker, produced in partnership with EY, shows committed future investment in the region has risen by £1.7bn over the past 12 months. This comes on top of £800m worth of projects being completed since the 2018 Tracker was published, including Aberdeen Art Gallery, the Music Hall, Banchory Sports Village and the region’s new world-class events complex P&J Live. Much of the investment in the document is scheduled for the next three years and includes projects involving transport & infrastructure, office & retail and leisure & culture, as well as health, sport & education. Significant projects included in the investment pipeline include digital connectivity across the city worth £77m; improvements to Aberdeen South Harbour totalling £350m; Kincardine Offshore Wind Farm valued at £500m; the creation of the Blackdog Town Centre and Regional Food Hall at £150m; and the Acorn carbon capture & storage and hydrogen projects at £475m. Chamber chief executive Russell Borthwick said: “The Tracker tells a story

of great progress for our regional economy with £2.5bn of infrastructure projects delivered since 2017 and more to come. The pace of change is breathtaking and a lot has happened in the last year with the highlight being the full opening of Europe’s largest new road scheme, the Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route. “Looking to the future, we are seeing investment in new schools, healthcare facilities and quality housing, including a number of new town developments. This is accompanied by investment in new digital infrastructure which will make Aberdeen Scotland’s first gigabit city by 2021, benefitting residents and companies alike. But the story goes beyond bricks and mortar, the North-east’s bold investment programmes are creating an energised, connected and revitalised region, one that offers an unparalleled experience for residents and visitors alike.” Projects included in the Tracker are those which have received planning permission or have funding committed. Focused on specific, often time-bound investment, it does not include offshore oil and gasrelated investment or the investment being

made by businesses in their own premises, equipment and technologies. Derek Leith, EY global oil and gas tax lead and Aberdeen senior partner, said: “This year’s report demonstrates a resilient and vibrant economy in the North-east, built from a diversification strategy that is future-proofing the region for generations to come. We have seen projects reach completion but there is also an ongoing pipeline of further capital investment that will create jobs and grow the local economy. “While the region was recovering from one of the worst downturns in the oil & gas sector, innovation and local leadership stepped up. As a result we are at an exciting time with many innovation projects that will see Aberdeen become a centre of excellence in food, life sciences, and, of course, reassert our position as a world leader in the energy sector. “This is a story of the local business community and local leaders coming together to be greater than the sum of its parts. The very first tracker was very much a vision – a map of what was planned. I am proud that in this fourth edition we can now show actual achievement.”

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BUSINESS PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

Planning for Brexit By Linda Murray Director of Strategy, Scottish Enterprise

Scottish Enterprise and our partners in the public sector are doing all we can to help businesses stay resilient and address the anticipated impacts of Brexit. Scotland’s business community is the engine room of our economy, and there has never been a more important time for businesses to take a look at their own resilience, particularly taking steps to be as ready as possible for the UK’s EU exit. Our advice to all businesses in Scotland is to continue to actively prepare for a no-deal Brexit on 31 October. All areas of business operations will be affected, ranging from employees, materials or components that are imported, exports, supply chain relationships, IP and legal contracts with EU customers and suppliers. Acting now to prepare for a fundamental change to Scotland’s business environment will help ensure you have the

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right contingency plans in place – deal or no deal – to protect your business, supply chain and customers. A good starting point is to check out the PrepareforBrexit.scot website, a partnership between Scottish Enterprise and our partner enterprise agencies - Scottish Development International, Skills Development Scotland, Highlands and Islands Enterprise and Business Gateway. It’s a collaborative base of support for Scottish business designed to raise awareness of the risks, challenges and opportunities of the new economic landscape by highlighting areas that businesses need to plan for to mitigate the possible consequences of Brexit. The website acts as a virtual one stop shop for all the advice you need and signposts to relevant assistance, as well as being the place to apply for financial help. The Brexit Support Grant is available to any VAT registered, small to medium enterprise in Scotland, and can provide up to £4,000 to help companies manage a range of Brexit related impacts. The website also features examples of how the Brexit Support Grant is already being used by Scottish businesses. SMEs employing up to 250 staff can use it for a wide range of activities including consultancy support, professional fees, external training, and international market research.

Getting Brexit-ready can seem daunting and costly, but there are many actions that can be taken right away that are low-risk and low-cost. The PrepareforBrexit.scot website includes a self-assessment tool to help you identify the areas your business needs to become Brexit-ready. This covers potential risks and impacts for your business, quick essential actions to take immediately, and advice and financial support available. The website also includes details of relevant events and workshops. It is critical that Scottish businesses continue to assess the challenges presented by Brexit and take necessary action to safeguard their growth. Preparing your business for Brexit is about developing a flexible planning approach so you can adapt and be resilient across a range of potential Brexit outcomes. We are stepping up support with additional financial and people resource to make sure businesses have access to support that will help them meet challenges head on. Help is also available at the end of a phoneline on 0300 303 0661.

CHAMBER SPOTLIGHT

Inverclyde Chamber relaunch hailed as a success by the local business community Inverclyde Chamber of Commerce (ICC) has revealed its new five-year strategy and fresh branding to its members and the Inverclyde business community. The successful launch event attracted over 80 businesses and associates to the Beacon Arts Centre as the Chamber outlined its approach for the coming years to 2024. ICC had spent the summer recess focusing on delivering a wide range of improvements, following feedback from its members earlier this year and the need to modernise its approach. As a result, the event saw the Chamber reveal its new branding, which introduces its heritage and Royal Charter status after being founded in 1813. The new logo, created by local graphic designer Craig Black, also includes a font to represent the industrial age as well as a ship for its past, present and future commerce opportunities. The Chamber also revealed its new website, as well as outlining its content, marketing and networking strategy, with Board members outlining the Chamber’s priorities for the coming years. ICC President, Gavin McDonagh said: “We are delighted at how well the event was

attended and received, together with the interest from the local business owners in seeing the Chamber improve its offer. “The Directors past and present have invested a lot of time and energy into making substantial improvements to the Chamber, and it was great to finally share the plans. “We have already seen an increased interest from businesses in working alongside the and joining the Chamber, and we welcome any further interest in the coming months.” Newly appointed Senior Executive Officer, Rachel Burns also introduced herself to attendees and shared the new events calendar for 2019-20, offering high-quality and frequent networking opportunities for the local business community. When the presentations were complete, there was an opportunity for the delegates to network and create new business opportunities with a fantastic atmosphere in the room. Claire Cameron, who runs her own cake business based in Kilmacolm, said: “I’ve

always been aware of the Chamber, but this is the first event I’ve attended. I was impressed by what I heard and the direction it is going. “As a result, I have signed up as a member and would encourage other businesses to get involved in increasing your network and grow your business locally.” McDonagh added: “The Chamber will ensure we are the voice for business in Inverclyde by advocating the business achievements of the firms in the area while supporting and celebrating those new businesses in the area. “We have an open-door policy and would invite all businesses to engage with the Chamber in the coming year and beyond.” For more information on Inverclyde Chamber of Commerce, visit the recently launched website: www.inverclydechamber. co.uk or contact Rachel Burns; Senior Executive Officer on 01475 806824 / seo@ inverclydechamber.co.uk

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CHAMBERCONNECTIONS

CHAMBER CONTACTS

Scottish Chambers of Commerce Strathclyde Business School, 199 Cathedral Street, Glasgow G4 0QU T: 0141 444 7500 E: admin@scottishchambers.org.uk President – Tim Allan Chief Executive - Liz Cameron OBE

Dumfries & Galloway Chamber of Commerce

Scottish Chambers of Commerce

Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce The Hub, Exploration Drive Aberdeen Energy Park, Bridge of Don Aberdeen, AB23 8GX T: 01224 343900 E: info@agcc.co.uk www.agcc.co.uk Chief Executive - Russell Borthwick President - Colette Backwell Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce & Industry The Mezzanine, Glasgow Prestwick International Airport, Prestwick, KA9 2PL T: 01292 678 666 F: 01292 678 667 E: enquiries@ayrshire-chamber.org www.ayrshire-chamber.org Chief Executive - Val Russell President - Lorna Gibson Cairngorms Business Partnership Ltd Inverdruie House, Inverdruie Aviemore, PH22 1QH T: 01479 810200 E: office@visitcairngorms.com www.visitcairngorms.com Chief Executive - Mark Tate Chair of the Partnership - Angus McNicol Caithness Chamber of Commerce Naver Business Centre Naver House, Naver Road Thurso, KW14 7QA T: 01847 890076 E: info@caithnesschamber.com www.caithnesschamber.com Chief Executive - Trudy Morris Chairman - Stephen Sutherland

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Eskdale House, The Crichton, Bankend Road Dumfries, DG1 4UQ T: 01387 270866 E: admin@dgchamber.co.uk www.dgchamber.co.uk President – Kenny Bowie Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce Whitecrook Business Centre 78 Whitecrook Street, Clydebank, G81 1QF T: 0141 280 0272 E: admin@dunbartonshirechamber.co.uk www.dunbartonshirechamber.co.uk Chief Executive - Damon Scott President - Stewart Rennie Dundee & Angus Chamber of Commerce 37 City Quay, Camperdown Street Dundee, DD1 3JA T: 01382 228545 F: 01382 228441 E: info@dundeeandanguschamber.co.uk www.dundeeandanguschamber.co.uk Chief Executive - Alison Henderson President - Ian Collins East Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce 1 Golf Road, Clarkston, East Renfrewshire G76 7HU T: 0141 887 6181 E: info@eastrenchamber.org.uk www.eastrenchamber.org.uk President – Laura Molloy Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce 40 George Street, 2nd floor Edinburgh, EH2 2LE T: 0131 221 2999 F: 0131 261 5056 E: info@edinburghchamber.co.uk www.edinburghchamber.co.uk Chief Executive – Liz McAreavey President - Jane Clark-Hutchison

Fife Chamber of Commerce John Smith Business Centre, 1 Begg Road John Smith Business Park, Kirkcaldy Fife, KY2 6HD T: 01592 647740 E: info@fifechamber.co.uk www.fifechamber.co.uk CEO – Alan Mitchell President – Brian Horisk Forth Valley Chamber of Commerce Group (incorporating Stirling Chamber of Commerce) Suite 2, Scion House Stirling University Innovation Park Stirling, FK9 4NF T: 01786 448 333 E: info@forthvalleychamber.co.uk www.forthvalleychamber.co.uk President Lynn Blaikie Glasgow Chamber of Commerce 30 George Square, Glasgow, G2 1EQ T: 0141 204 2121 E: chamber@glasgowchamberofcommerce.com www.glasgowchamberofcommerce.com Chief Executive Stuart Patrick President - Jim McHarg Inverclyde Chamber of Commerce Room 5, Victoria House 5 East Blackhall Street, Greenock, PA15 1HD T: 01475 806824 E: seo@inverclydechamber.co.uk www.inverclydechamber.co.uk Senior Executive Officer – Rachel Burns President – Gavin McDonagh

CHAMBER CONTACTS

Inverness Chamber of Commerce Metropolitan House 31-33 High Street, Inverness, IV1 1HT T: 01463 718 131 E: info@inverness-chamber.co.uk www.inverness-chamber.co.uk Chief Executive - Stewart Nicol President - George Moodie Lanarkshire Chamber of Commerce Barncluith Business Centre, Townhead St, Hamilton, ML3 7DP T: 0330 0947370 E: info@lanarkshirechamber.org.uk Director: Faye Clark Lochaber Chamber of Commerce 15 High Street Fort William, PH33 6DH T: 01397 705 765 E: membership@lochaberchamber.co.uk www.lochaberchamber.co.uk Chairman - Bruno Berardelli Chief Executive - Frazer Coupland Midlothian & East Lothian Chamber of Commerce Moulsdale House, Edinburgh College 24d Milton Road East, Edinburgh, EH15 2PP T: 0131 603 5040 E: info@melcc.org.uk www.melcc.org.uk Joint Chief Executives - George Archibald and Keith Barbour President – Archie Paterson Moray Chamber of Commerce Moray Sports Centre, Linkwood Road, Elgin, Moray, Scotland, IV30 8AR T: 01343 543344 E: info@moraychamber.co.uk www.moraychamber.co.uk Chief Executive - Sarah Medcraf President Carol Stewart

Perthshire Chamber of Commerce Saltire House, 3 Whitefriars Crescent Perth, PH2 0PA T: 01738 448 325 F: 01738 450 402 E: info@perthshirechamber.co.uk www.perthshirechamber.co.uk Chief Executive - Vicki Unite President - Stephen Leckie Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce Bute Court, St Andrews Drive Glasgow Airport Paisley, PA3 2SW T: 0141 847 5450 F: 0141 847 5499 E: info@renfrewshirechamber.com www.renfrewshirechamber.com Chief Executive – Bob Grant President – Tom Johnston Scottish Borders Chamber of Commerce 27 North Bridge Street, Hawick, TD9 9BD T: 07771 865 758 E: chairman@borderschamber.com www.borderschamber.com Chair – Moira Wilson West Lothian Chamber of Commerce Systems House, Alba Centre, Alba Business Park, Rosebank, Livingston, EH54 7EG T: 01506 414808 E: chamber@wlchamber.com www.wlchamber.com President Billy MacLeod

Scottish Chambers of Commerce Strathclyde Business School 199 Cathedral Street, Glasgow, G4 0QU T: 0141 444 7500 www.scottishchambers.org.uk @ScotChambers Like us on Facebook Siobhan Divers Head of Content T: 0141 444 7509 E: sdivers@scottishchambers.org.uk Production & Design Distinctive Group 3rd Floor, Tru Knit House, 9-11 Carliol Square Newcastle Upon Tyne NE1 6UF Telephone 0191 5805990 production@distinctivegroup.co.uk www.distinctivepublishing.co.uk Advertising John Neilson Commercial Director Telephone 07813 874970 john.neilson@distinctivegroup.co.uk This publication is also available as an ebook at: www.issuu.com/distinctivepublishing

Disclaimer

Distinctive Publishing or Scottish Chambers of Commerce 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 Scottish Chambers of Commerce.

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MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Fife Chamber’s new board gets down to business Fife Chamber’s Board met for the first time since the appointment of its new President and Directors. Reviewing progress towards the Chamber’s ambitious year-end membership targets, and agreeing new investment in staff to drive further improvements, were just two of the meeting’s objectives. The Chamber Board also discussed plans which would allow the Chamber to have a stronger voice on the stakeholder forums and partnerships that

shape business and community ambitions across Fife, as well as reviewing how Fife Chamber can contribute more to the work of the Scottish and British Chambers of Commerce. Brian Horisk, Director of Horisk Leslie Development who previously held the Vice President role in the Chamber was appointed as President at the Chamber’s AGM in May 2019. Brian, who took over from Peter Southcott, is supported by new Board members Colin Brown from Burness Paull LLP, Heather

The newly appointed Directors join existing Directors Susan Dunsmuir from Fife College, Louise Molloy from Bank of Scotland, Alastair Booth from The HR Booth, Keith Winter from Fife Council, Michael Longstaffe from Smith Anderson Group, Janet McIntyre from Thorntons Solicitors and Craig Hunter from Haines Watts.

Scottish SMEs thrive after securing over £2 million worth of funding

Scottish SME growth exceeds United Kingdom average

Under the Scottish Growth Scheme, Business Loans Scotland has announced the total sum of loans issued to Scottish SMEs has reached £2,045,175.

Research by Censuswide for UK Export Finance (UKEF), the UK’s export credit agency, shows that Scottish SME growth exceeds the United Kingdom average, and SMEs that export grow at a faster rate than those that only have domestic customers. Across the UK, SMEs with purely domestic customers reported an annual growth of 8.4% over the last five years whereas this increased to as much as 15.2% for those which export. Furthermore, 42% of SMEs say that exporting has increased profits by up to 20% and almost one in ten say it has increased profits by over 20%. In Scotland, specific financial barriers to export include concerns about cash flow or lack of working capital (cited by 19%), the length of time it takes to be paid (21%), the risk of not being paid at all by a foreign buyer (22%) and a lack of information about foreign markets (12%). Secretary of State for International Trade, Rt Hon. Liz Truss MP, said: “Finance is a key barrier coming between SMEs and their export potential. If small businesses were to export more, Britain would see even more stronger economic growth”. Businesses across the country can find out more by contacting an Export Finance Manager or visiting www.great.gov.uk/ trade-finance.

Providing loans from £25,000 to £100,000, Business Loans Scotland give businesses access to an invaluable new source of funding. Fully funded through the Scottish Growth Scheme and the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), Business Loans Scotland has currently invested in 30 Scottish SMEs, with this figure expected to rise to over 100 by the end of 2021. Commenting on the loans issued to date, Chair of Business Loans Scotland and Leader of East Renfrewshire Council, Councillor Tony Buchanan said: “Access to finance is vital for businesses in today’s current and challenging economic climate. The funding available through Business Loans Scotland, from the Scottish Growth Scheme, is fundamental in helping SMEs across Scotland achieve their growth ambitions. With loans from £25,000 to £100,000, Business Loans Scotland demonstrates a commitment to supporting small and medium sized businesses which are looking for funding to start up and grow.” For more information or to start the application process, visit www.bls.scot

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Stuart, from Fife Cultural Trust, Iain Haywood, from Rollos, Wicus Van Biljon from Business Doctors, Carl Hodson, from SeeScape and Alan Nicoll, from Babcock International who was appointed at this meeting as the first order of business.

And SMEs that export grow faster than those that do not

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