Water scarcity in Scotland: protect your business this summer

Manage water wisely

With ongoing dry weather, Scotland is now facing reduced availability of water in many areas of the country. This affects a wide range of businesses that rely on the use of water.

Businesses extracting water and irrigating are being urged to put their water scarcity plans into action to reduce pressure on the environment and preserve water resources as dry conditions persist across Scotland.

• Regularly check your irrigation equipment to make sure it’s in good condition and fix any leaks straight away.

• Where possible, reduce the volume and rate of your abstractions.

• Have a contingency plan if suspensions are put in place: www.sepa.org.uk/waterscarcity or search: SEPA water scarcity

- have you any stored water available?

- can you switch to an alternative source, if available within your current authorisation?

- can you temporarily switch to ground water?

• Check SEPA’s website and regular water scarcity reports so you are aware of the water situation in your area.

This is my last magazine before I get out on the road to have a look at our contenders for this year’s awards. It’s a time of year I always really enjoy. not least, catching up with our sponsors.

Our mystery shoppers are also getting set to go and are all looking forward to checking out some new places.

This issue we have a feature on some Women in the Trade in a variety or roles who help make this Industry tick.

I also caught up with Andy and Emma MacSween - luckily I got in just before she is due to have baby number two. Read what they have to say on page 16.

We delve into the world of beer - the stats make interesting reading.

There are also two design features this month, Chaakoo in Edinburgh and The Marigold Cafe in Glasgow. Both are worth checking out.

Until next month.

Susan Young, Editor susan@mediaworldltd.com dramscotland.co.uk

Edinburgh Gets 2nd Alchemist

The Alchemist has opened its second Edinburgh bar and restaurant on George Street, its first is at the St James quarter. The new venue which covers 7,051 square feet has a 90-cover bar and restaurant space.

Designed by Blacksheep, the late night venue draws its inspiration from “earthly and cosmic realms,” with celestial artwork, sculpted accents, and a double-height cocktail bar which takes centre stage.

Simon Potts, CEO, The Alchemist said, “Our St James Quarter venue has been so well received since opening in 2021, so we’re looking forward to welcoming the city to The Alchemist George Street. The two venues will complement each other perfectly, with the focus of the George Street venue being on the late-night drinking experience. We’re incredibly proud of the space which enhances the period features of the listed building and is the ideal setting for the dash of theatre we’re known for serving.”

McFly’s Chicken and Max’s Bar collaborate

The people behind McFly’s Chicken have teamed up with Max’s Bar in Glasgow city centre to create a three month kitchen-takeover which will see McFly’s full food menu available both indoor and outdoors at Max’s. While McFly’s will served up its Pan-Asian style fried chicken, Max’s cocktail guru Zach Sapato has created some new summer cocktails.Commenting on the news, Marisa Capaldi who is heading up the McFly’s team in Glasgow said, “We are absolutely delighted to be joining Max’s Bar to create the food & drink collab Glasgow didn’t know it needed! We’ve been inundated with messages from die hard McFly’s fans who were sad to see us leave the Southside, and we couldn’t be prouder to open our first City Centre restaurant. We know that a cold beer or cocktail is the perfect match for our crispy, flavourful chicken - so Max’s was a no brainer!”

Dario Bernardi from Max’s Bar said: “We’re always on the lookout to provide the best offer to our customers, and McFly’s Chicken are the perfect partner. It’s been great working with their team to make our shared vision a reality - great service, great food with a great drink - all under one roof.”

Edinburgh’s iconic Caledonian Waldorf Astoria, better known as The Caley Hotel, has been sold for a deal said to be worth £85m to property fund manager Henderson Park, and its in-house hospitality operator Klarent Hospitality. Henderson Park’s Klarent Hilton portfolio also includes Carlton on North Bridge and the Doubletree Edinburgh Airport