Fife Business Matters by dtech

ISSUE 22 • SPRING 2013

LOCAL BUSINESS NEWS: hear more success stories

FIFE BUSINESS MATTERS

FIFE’s FUTURE WORKFORCE www.fifebusinessmatters.co.uk

www.fiferenewablesinnovationcentre.co.uk

The natural home for Scotland’s Renewable Energy Sector Situated at the heart of Scotland’s East Coast, the Renewables Innovation Centre is part of the internationally acclaimed Energy Park Fife. Combining state-of-the-art business facilities and the latest in sustainable design, this landmark development provides everything your company needs to grow in the fastmoving Renewables Sector.

• Flexible space from 16m2 to 205m2

• 24/7 security

• A BREEAM Excellent rated building, powered by low carbon & renewable technologies

• Latest broadband connectivity

• Access to shared innovation space

• Attractive & flexible leasing terms • Reception services

• Car parking

• Communal networking area & stunning sea views

• Excellent meeting & conference room facilities

Don’t just take our word for it - come and see it for yourself Contact Barbara Whiting, Lead Officer Renewables, Invest in Fife Renewables, Email: barbara.whiting@fife.gov.uk or Tel: 08451 555555 ext 492184.

A development by

WELCOME to Fife Business Matters Welcome to the latest edition of Fife Business Matters. As we make our way through 2013, the success of Fife businesses and the strength of the region’s economy are creating an array of opportunities for growth. From companies relocating to larger premises, winning major contracts, to employing the next generation of talented and skilled workers, many of Fife’s home grown businesses are going from strength to strength. This year we are particularly keen to work with local schools across the region and through the Culture of Enterprise initiative, organised by Fife Council’s economic development department, some primary school children have had a taste of running a business which you can read more about in the coming pages. Also in this issue we look at a variety of employment initiatives that are available throughout Fife to help get young people into work. From helpful hints and tips on preparing their CV, interview techniques to work placements, there is no denying that we are all keen for the next working generation to be in a position to find jobs and hopefully, go on to create their own business. I hope you enjoy this issue of Fife Business Matters.

Contents P4

Getting young people into employment

Smith Anderson success

Business funding

P10

Young entrepreneurs

P14

What’s happening with Fife Chamber of Commerce

P18

Hot property in Fife

P 19

Goings-on at Business Gateway

P21

FBM meets Stacey-Lee Ferry

P22

Enterprising initiatives

P26

Events diary

Chris Parr, Chairman, Fife Economy Partnership

Publisher: D-Tech Graphic Design and Print Ltd Fife Business Matters is published by D-Tech Graphic Design & Print Limited on behalf of the Fife Economy Partnership. This publication is fully protected by copyright and nothing may be printed wholly or in part without the written permission of the publishers. The proprietors of this magazine are publishers and not agents or sub-agents of those who advertise therein. The publishers cannot be held liable for any loss suffered as a result of information gained from this publication. The views expressed by the authors or articles published in this magazine are solely those of the author and are not necessarily the views of or shared by the editor, nor the publisher or the directors, shareholders and/or employees of D-Tech Graphic Design & Print Limited.

Fife Business Matters is published on behalf of the Fife Economy Partnership and is funded by Fife Council To send us your stories or request a copy email: editor@fifebusinessmatters.co.uk To advertise Telephone 01389 736000 email: sales@dtechuk.com

news in brief

 New chair for Fife Golf Partnership Stephen Owen of Rufflets Hotel in St Andrews is Fife Golf Partnership’s new chairman. Set up during 2011, the partnership is a network of golf courses and clubs, accommodation providers, golf travel trade and industry trade associations working together to develop and improve the market position of Fife as a must-visit golf destination.

 New Era for Scott & Fyfe

Gerard Eadie CBE from CR Smith

Tayport technical textiles manufacturer Scott & Fyfe has completed a £5.8 million buyout. Former executive chairman Hamish Tough and his sons Richard and David Tough, both company directors, have sold their shares to the Scott & Fyfe Employee Benefit Trust.

INITIATIVES TO HELP YOUNG FIFE PEOPLE INTO EMPLOYMENT YOUNG people are the lifeblood to the economy. They are the next generation of Scotland’s working future which is why a number of local Fife-based companies are backing initiatives to give them the skills and experience to help get a job. Gerard Eadie CBE, Chairman of Dunfermline-based CR Smith has created Hand Picked, an employment initiative which gives young unemployed people a paid job for three months. The programme is backed by a number of Fife-based companies, including Taylor Wimpey, Braisby Roofing, Eclipse IP and Narvida. He said: “There are plenty of employers like me who want to see more young people in work and the idea for Hand Picked came to me from having helped many young people over the years. 4

“The chances are we’ve all helped our own children, or our friends’ children, into work, or maybe you were given a foot up when you needed it most, at the start of your working life. “Hand Picked works in exactly the same way. Many young people simply don’t have the opportunity, guidance or personal contacts to kick start their careers - they need experience of real work, to learn the skills required to persuade a company to take a chance on them. “We are creating a network of employers who feel the same: they’re taking our Hand Picked youngsters on and it is working.”

 Babcock deal secures jobs Babcock’s Rosyth base has won a £30 million contract to build subsea equipment. The deal to manufacture 74 subsea structures will secure 100 jobs and extend the lives of two oil fields until 2035.

 New lease of life at Glenhire Express Fife transport firm Glenhire Express has completed an impressive turnaround at its Glenrothes haulage yard after investing £300,000 in new vehicles, staff, training and systems.

 Saltire Dental Centre brushes up on team Implant surgeon Dr Zannar Ossi has joined Saltire Dental Centre in Glenrothes to provide specialised support and treatment for patients requiring implants or specialised oral surgery.

For more news in brief see P6

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FiFab’s Archie Smith at Lochgelly High

Lochgelly High School enterprise & employability project PUPILS at Lochgelly High School are also being supported in their efforts to find employment. Local businesses including, FiFab, Purvis, Shell, Score UK, Dynamic EMS, Recycle Fife, Carnegie College, MacDonald Strategy, Fife Fire and Rescue and Mooreland Travel are offering job application and interview techniques. And Smith Anderson, SM Baynes and Carbon Financial Partners are also providing work experience placements to pupils who are successful at the interview stage. The programme is being led by Lochgelly High’s Acting Principal Teacher of Design, Engineering & Technology, Ray Fernie, who identified there was an opportunity to tap into the expertise of local employers and draw on their knowledge. He said: “Over the past few months we have been meeting with local businesses and it was clear from their feedback that pupils lacked the skills to get as far as an interview and therefore find a job. They were keen to help though, and by working together we have now developed a range of support for pupils which will be delivered in partnership with these local businesses.

“Pupils will go through the process of applying for jobs using real specifications supplied by the businesses. The applications will be assessed and successful applicants will then be interviewed for work placements which will take place during the school holidays.” Archie Smith, Managing Director of FiFab, said: “Our partnership with Lochgelly High School is part of our commitment to the communities we operate in. “FiFab, along with other companies in Fife, must ensure that we can provide high value opportunities for this generation and in the future. Some of these kids might never get the chance to realise their ambition of becoming a machinist, an engineer or even a manager. “We offer them a chance to try all positions at Fife Fabrications whether it is IT, working with CAD/CAM computers, or operating key machinery. We try and instil the belief in the young people who come through, that whatever they would like to achieve, we are here to encourage and guide them, so that they can make positive choices for their future. “We consider the sponsorship not only a necessity for the future of manufacturing but also for future generations who have never even thought of going into the manufacturing business”.

YOUTH UNEMPLOYMENT FUNDING A £5 million investment to tackle youth unemployment issues will support between 500 and 600 young people (aged between 16 and 24) in three year apprenticeships working with the private, public, voluntary sectors and Fife Council. A Programme Implementation Board will be formed to ensure effective engagement with employers and stakeholders. The Board will be chaired by Councillor Tony Martin, the recently appointed Youth Employment Ambassador for Fife Council. Board members will consist of representatives from Skills Development Scotland, Fife’s colleges, Fife NHS, Fife Chamber of Commerce, The Federation of Small Business, the Department of Work & Pensions, the Voluntary sector and key services in Fife Council. Councillor Tony Martin said: “This programme will address issues of youth unemployment in Fife on a large scale, providing a robust vehicle for delivery through the strong partnership approaches in Fife. We aim to deliver programme interventions with clear leadership at the heart of it to prevent the loss of young talent in Fife. “We will exploit all opportunities presented by the Department of Work & Pensions and Skills Development Scotland and other funding sources such as European funding to maximise the future leverage of new funding to support the youth employment agenda.” 5

news in brief

 New Tayport hair salon Former SRUC Elmwood Campus pupil Rhys Davidson has opened his first hair dressers. The Tayport salon is a true family business with his wife and sister working alongside him.

 Management shuffle for Vianet

SMITH ANDERSON BASKS IN GOLDEN ARCHES GLORY SMITH Anderson Group is on track to successfully complete its multi-million pound relocation from Falkland to Kirkcaldy this summer, safeguarding up to 200 jobs. The relocation to the new site at Rosslyn Commerce Park on Mitchelston Industrial Estate, will see the UK’s largest supplier of paper bags to the food service industry significantly improve its operational efficiency, through the implementation of modern ‘Lean’ management techniques. The move was initiated after Smith Anderson secured a £500,000 Scottish Enterprise Regional Selective Assistance Grant (RSA). Michael Longstaffe, Chief Executive of Smith Anderson, said: “Increased productivity and customer demand has had a positive impact on our business. We have been able to move to larger premises and bolstered our workforce with extra machine operators and packers. “A clear focus on added value products that are created within a highly innovative workplace has enabled us to turnover £20 million in 2012 – our highest turnover since we began making paper bags almost 100 years ago. “ Smith Anderson is the UK’s longest serving supplier to McDonald’s UK having worked with the quick service restaurant group for 37 years. 6

Named as McDonald’s Supplier of the Year at the close of 2012, the company beat off stiff competition from 124 international companies, to scoop the coveted honour. In addition, Smith Anderson has just signed a further three year contract to 2016, enabling it to reach its 40 year tenure with the global giant. Michael added: “We are absolutely delighted to have been awarded this Supplier of the Year honour and to have signed a further three year deal with McDonald’s. It’s another measure of success for us and certainly gives a great boost to employee morale. “The contract ensures we continue to supply Western Europe, which includes the UK, Northern Ireland, Ireland and The Netherlands as well as numerous promotional products to the whole of the EU, which is an encouraging development for a Fife-based company.” As the primary source of the UK’s pharmacy dispensing bags, Smith Anderson’s 150 customers are not all food related. It also supplies to numerous retail outlets as well as national bakery multiples. These new premises will ensure the business continues to expand profitably over the next five years. Smith Anderson is embarking on the re-design and construction of its company website and will officially open Kirkcaldy in June 2013 with a complete corporate re-branding.

Vianet, the Dunfermline-based monitoring systems and data management firm, has revealed two senior management changes. The reshuffle will see retiring non-executive chairman James Newman replaced by chief executive James Dickson. The rejig will help position Vianet for future growth.

 Methil move for Samsung Samsung is moving into Fife Energy Park in Methil. Nineteen staff will move into three offices at the park to lead the development of Samsung Heavy Industries’ offshore wind demonstration project.

 Kirkcaldy firm insures its awards success Insure Smart beat Dragon’s Den success story iCafe to scoop the small business of the year title at the Scottish Asian Business Awards.

 Jobs boost at Amazon Three hundred temporary workers at Amazon have been given permanent roles at its Dunfermline distribution centre, taking the number of staff to more than 640. More than 100 posts are expected to be created in the near future.

For more news in brief see P11

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NEW HEADQUARTERS FOR DPS GROUP The DPS Group celebrated in reaching its 12th anniversary in business by moving to larger premises in Glenrothes. Relocating from its 4,000 sq ft base in Cardenden to a 16,000 sq ft site at 1 Lomond Business Park, the new headquarters were officially opened by Lindsay Roy MP for Glenrothes and Central Fife. The Group which is an established supplier of process control and automation solutions, and electrical and instrumentation project management, was set up by Colin Millar and Colin Burnett in 2001 with a turnover of £400,000. It now employs 75 people and last year turned over 7.5 million.

Colin Millar, Managing Director said: “From our fledgling beginnings in 2001, we have continued to invest in the growth of the business which now comprises three companies - DP Sales, DP Systems and DP Services.

“The continued growth of the DPS Group is our number one target and along with our team of highly skilled personnel, we will continue to focus on offering a quality product.”

“Working together as a group has many benefits and enables us to offer our clients a fully integrated solution using brand names from some of the world class manufacturers of process control equipment.

All our services are carried out in-house in Glenrothes.”

Eat Safe award served to MITIE

MITIE, caterer at Diageo, Banbeath, Leven, has achieved the Food Standards Agency’s Eat Safe Award. MITIE was nominated for the award following a recent routine food safety inspection by Environmental Health

Officers from Fife Council’s Protective Services. Roy Stewart, Fife Council Senior Manager (Protective Services) who presented the award commented on the achievement.

In 2005 the DPS Group established DP Systems and DP Sales.

He said: “I am really pleased to present this award to MITIE. The Eat Safe award scheme provides an incentive for food businesses to strive for standards beyond those required by law and is a recognised and well publicised sign of excellence in standards of food hygiene. Mitie’s award will give Diageo’s staff confidence in the catering provided at Banbeath.” Roy continued: “Over 150 awards have been given to Fife businesses since 2005 and this represents over 10 per cent of the entire Eat Safe awards in Scotland. It demonstrates the commitment to quality of Fife’s top food businesses.” The Eat Safe award scheme launched by the food Standards Agency in Scotland during January 2005 is designed to promote excellence in food hygiene and improve public confidence and consumer choice. Eligible establishments will be assessed for the Eat Safe award as part of scheduled food hygiene inspections carried out by Environmental Health Officers. The issue and control of Eat Safe award certificates is through Local Authorities and the certificates will be reviewed at every planned food hygiene inspection. 7

BUSINESS ANGELS CAN HELP A COMPANY SPREAD ITS WINGS

n the second series on business financing, Angus McGuire of business lawyers Young & Partners of Dunfermline shares his insight on business angels.

Another advantage of angel investment is that it is subject to little regulation provided that the angel meets the “high net worth” or “sophisticated investor” test. ”

The Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme (SEIS) launched last year allows individuals to invest up to £150,000 in a start up with income tax relief of 50%.

“It may be surprising to know that angel investment is increasing in Scotland. According to LINC (the national association of business angels in Scotland), funding in early stage companies in Scotland by angels was up 26% in 2012.

Business Angels: These are individuals who invest their own funds in a business in exchange for shares. It should not be seen as an exotic investment class or only something that is done on TV for entertainment, as it can also lead to the creation of high skilled jobs.

For larger investments in early stage companies, the Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS) is available. Under EIS an investor can invest up to £1,000,000 per annum with income tax relief of 30%.

“But with the finance pool almost dried up from traditional routes, the poor returns from other types of investment and the increased recognition of the importance of entrepreneurs to economic growth, angel investment is of critical importance in supporting entrepreneurs in start up and early stage businesses. “However, it is by its nature a risky area of investment, but in recognition of the risk there are tax reliefs available and support from Scottish Enterprise and LINC.

Scotland has one of the most developed business angel communities in the world. The “Scottish model” of angel investment, where angels come together in syndicates and access matched funding from government, has been adopted in many other countries such as New Zealand, Sweden, Canada, Ireland, England, Finland and Estonia.

Exits: The general rule of thumb in angel investments is that for every 10 investments, five will fail, three will return the value of the investment and two will provide the profit. A local success story is Optos based in Dunfermline. It was initially backed by Archangels (an Edinburgh based angel syndicate) and floated in 2006 for £150m. This article is intended to provide general information and is not intended to constitute legal

Tax Relief: The UK currently has some of the most generous tax reliefs available for early stage investment anywhere in the world.

advice. It is recommended that professional advice is sought in respect of your specific situation.

Are you looking for business property in Fife? Fife Council provides a variety of business space throughout Fife and we currently have the following business properties for lease;

OFFICES

Unit No

Sqft

Sqm

Rent

Service Charge

Pitreavie Business Park

Sqm

Rent

Rateable Value

Fife Food & Business Centre

Unit 3

6,409

595

£12,818

19,200

Unit 7

8,435

784

£16,828

21,500

560

£7,084

£2,352

5,100

Unit 5

593

£7,205

£2,491

5,500

Unit 13

811

£9,045

£3,406

7,400

Unit 9

4,148

385

£10,500

£12,600

Unit 14

1,053

£11,741

£4,422

8,400

Unit 11

1,038

£4,750

£4,300

Unit 16*

216

£2,408

£907

2,100

Unit 29

4,106

381

£17,500

£14,850

Unit 23

1,001

£11,165

£4,204

9,600

KIRKCALDY

Office 3(FF)

2,745

255

£27,450

tbc

28,100

Enterprise Centre

Unit 13*

500

£3,750

£3,500

Unit 19*

1,000

£8,000

£5,400

Suite 1

2,790

259

£20,750

tbc

20,300

AF4 Units 1/2

4,000

372

£16,000

3,500

Suite 4

1,595

148

£11,862

tbc

11,100

Block 5 Unit 8

1,757

163

£6,700

£5,500

Block 7 Unit 1

4,087

380

£16,000

£15,100

KIRKCALDY Business Incubator

Sqft

Unit 1

INVERKEITHING Forth House

Unit No

GLENROTHES

DUNFERMLINE Dunfermline Business Centre

INDUSTRIAL

Various Office Space Available between 169-342sqft. This Business Space is for start up businesses only. Please contact the Property Team on 0845 600 1359 for information.

Merchant Place LEVEN Banbeath Industrial Estate

LEVEN Fife Renewable Innovation Centre

Various Office Space Available between 205 – 2,217sqft. This Centre is aimed for the Renewable Industry market Please contact the Property Team on 0845 600 1359 for information

*Under Offer Misrepresentation Act: Dimensions, distances and floor areas are approximate and given for guidance purposes only. Potential tenants should satisfy themselves as to the validity of the figures given. These costs are correct at this date but subject to review.

If you are looking for business premises contact the Economic Development Team on 0845 600 1359 or E-mail Business.Property@fife.gov.uk

FIFE’S YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS SHOW WHAT THEY CAN OFFER THE BUSINESS COMMUNITY

TWENTY of Fife’s young entrepreneurs took over the Old Kirk in Kirkcaldy to showcase their companies to the business community. Aged between 21 and 33 the entrepreneurs ran businesses in a range of sectors, including traditional trades, creative and professional services. Inviting the business community to come and see the quality and diversity of what they are doing helped create business connections. Fiona Turnbull of Youth Business Scotland, who has assisted the young people in their business ventures, said: “Often young people are dismissed as inexperienced or unreliable and it is time to show that many are very dynamic, committed and can offer a great service. Many companies can learn a great deal from a youthful, modern perspective, too! “We found that local business people took a couple of hours to visit the showcase and chatted to the young people to see how they can help each other.” Each company had a stand to exhibit their products and services, ranging from handmade jewellery and original artwork, to plumbing services and online marketing. Byam Trotter from Upper Largo and founder of Trotter’s Independent Condiments, said: “I find these events great for meeting new people who are in a similar position to me or where I was three years ago. I enjoy networking with similar business minds to bounce ideas off each other and see business through other people’s eyes. It can also be a good social event.” Auchtermuchty-based Blacksmith Donald Tippen from Ironsparks, added: “Doing an event with Youth Business Scotland is better than doing a normal event like a farmers market, craft fair or a trade show because this is the organisation that helped me get to where I am now. It’s a satisfying feeling when others say that they are really impressed with how well your business has developed.” Representatives from Youth Business Scotland and Business Gateway also attended to explain the support available for young business people. Local participants in the Prince’s Trust TEAM Programme and local xl clubs also supported the event to highlight The Prince’s Trust programmes in Fife.

SHONA AUSTIN RETURNS TO SME BANKING ROLE IN FIFE

familiar face has returned to Fife to help the Kingdom’s small and medium sized businesses take the lead in Scotland’s economic recovery. Shona Austin has been appointed Senior Manager for Bank of Scotland Commercial’s operations in Central Scotland and Fife. In her new role, she will lead a team of experts helping SMEs to expand, diversify and identify new opportunities. Shona, who is a Chartered Banker and a Director of Fife Chamber of Commerce, returns to the area after 16 months working on secondment with Lloyds Banking Group Scotland’s Managing Director, Susan Rice. Shona said: “I’ve spent more than a decade with Bank of Scotland leading in a variety of roles, but in every position my focus has been on giving businesses the tools and assistance necessary to flourish. “Returning to Commercial Banking with an expanded portfolio gives me even greater scope to help firms through what has clearly been a challenging time. The business owners I speak to are naturally quite nervous about the future, but with the right financial support in place, the evidence points to long term optimism. “The message is quite clear. Fife is open for business and will do my best to help the local economy grow even further.”

news in brief

MGT MAGIC UP PAYWIZARD REBRAND

KIRKCALDY-BASED call centre company MGt plc is rebranding as PayWizard Group plc as it focuses on being a technology-led business. The company, which has been headquartered in Fife since 1997, is reacting to the huge demands in the digital market where broadband speeds have increased and wifi and mobile internet have become the norm. A growing demand for a multitude of smart phones, tablets and televisions, and the growing importance of online businesses such as You Tube, Amazon and Apple, is offering global opportunities for the PayWizard team which employs 600 staff. The challenge was to recognise the changes that were taking place and to design the new technologies and services that the market would require to manage customers in this new world. Jonathan Guthrie, Chief Executive at PayWizard, said: “We developed PayWizard in 2009 which is a revolutionary and sophisticated platform to manage paying subscribers across multiple devices. “As such, and due to its success, we felt the company was shifting towards being a technology-based business as opposed to a call centre.” He added: “The company already has an impressive range of clients that have already gone live with the PayWizard service, including ITV, Film4, Virgin, All3Media, Box Nation and Real Madrid. “To date, we have acquired more than six million subscribers and processed more than 100 million pay per view buys.”

 New buyer for Parsons Peebles Generation Parsons Peebles Generation has been snapped up by Clyde Blowers Capital. The company, which designs and manufactures motors and power generation machinery from its Rosyth dockyard base, will invest heavily and create dozens of jobs.

 New identity for law firm One of Fife’s largest law firms has unveiled its new name and identity, reflecting its evolution and its growing national profile. Murray Donald, formerly Murray Donald Drummond Cook, has roots dating back over 200 years and offices in St Andrews, Anstruther and Cupar.

 New vision for Optos Dunfermline-based retinal imaging firm Optos expects sales of high-tech scanning units to increase this summer as it seeks to attract distributors and increase market share.

 Planys Cloud heading for new heights Cloud computing start-up firm Planys Cloud has secured more than £300,000 of business in just five months. Founded by entrepreneurs Joe Henry and Steven Wexelstein it employs 13 staff at its Carnegie Conference Centre base.

 Change of style A former St Andrews clothes shop is to be turned into a café. Plans for the premises at 5 Logies Lane have been given the go ahead and consent was also issued for an outdoor seating area in the lane that runs between Market Street and South Street.

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For more news in brief see P19

11 Jonathan Guthrie

Fife Tourism Flourishes Fife Tourism Partnership continues to help businesses develop NOW in its third year, the Fife Tourism Partnership continues to help tourism businesses and communities across the region work together to attract more visitors to Fife. Its annual conference at Balbirnie House Hotel attracted around 150 delegates to hear key speakers and take part in three interactive workshop sessions. The conference also enabled tourism businesses to learn about the new Scottish Tourism Strategy which aims to present Scotland in a way that attracts new visitors.

CASE STUDY

Morton of Pitmilly was established in 1990 by John Parker. The former farmer diversified his business to create 16 luxury self-catering holiday cottages in Kingsbarns, near St Andrews. With five miles of tracks and trails to explore, a 33 acre biodiversity programme which includes tree planting, and leisure facilities including, a swimming pool, gym, tennis court and beauty treatments, Morton of Pitmilly invested in a £1 million expansion last year. John said:

Ann Camus, Manager of the Fife Tourism Partnership, said: “The Fife Tourism Partnership works through its Local Tourist Associations to increase the economic return that tourism brings to Fife. Central to this is working with businesses who want to collaborate to create new and better visitor offers and to increase the awareness of Fife as a tourist destination.” The Fife Tourism Partnership is led by the industry and its Chairman and Board are all tourism business representatives. John

“Twenty three years ago I looked into what the turnover might be for a tourism business compared to a farmer and it was a no brainer. As such, I looked at turning my farm land into luxury accommodation and creating a destination that visitors and local people could enjoy. “Last year we invested £1 million to create a steading to reflect all the things we have learnt over the past 23 years. These have bigger bedrooms all with en-suite facilities, and due to the versatility of the layout means they can be adapted for each guest to suit their needs.”

Parker, Chairman, said: “The Partnership’s success rests on the involvement of the business community and I’m delighted at the productive level of collaboration and new ideas coming through the local groups. It’s important that all sectors of tourism are represented so we achieve the widest range of visitor satisfaction and repeat business.”

John added: “Being a member of the Fife Tourism Partnership has helped my business because it has established a platform to work with other tourism businesses offering networking, partnership opportunities and provides some excellent training courses meaning we are in a stronger position to attract more visitors to discover the delights Fife has to offer.” For more information about Fife Tourism Partnership’s events visit www.fifetourismpartnership. org/events

Fife’s creative economy is a key sector for growth

THE creative industries sector in Scotland supports over 60,000 jobs and contributes £5 billion to the economy and has been recognised as a key sector for growth. In Fife, the creative economy is a diverse sector including creative and cultural businesses and organisations, as well as individual/freelance artists and practitioners. The strongest sub-sectors of the area, in terms of volume of businesses/practitioners are the software and electronic publishing sector and the visual arts & crafts sectors. Writing and publishing is also a substantive sector within the area, with a wealth of designers and printers as well as local newspapers in the region. Louise Trow, is Fife’s Creative Economy Development Officer, whose remit it is to develop a culture of enterprise in Fife for the creative and cultural industries, whilst supporting development activities for the sector, networking opportunities and an awards/recognition scheme.

She said: “With around 400 organisations and practitioners across the region, it’s imperative that we are able to support and nurture them. By forging partnerships with Fife Regional College, Fife Contemporary Art & Craft, Fife & TayScreen and Fife Council’s Economic Development team we are able to create a range of opportunities to help local businesses and practitioners maximise their potential.” Louise is leading the introduction of new initiatives and resources to support the development of the Creative Economy in Fife. A series of events will be held looking at key issues and challenges in the sector which will enable networking opportunities and support collaborative working. There will also be new opportunities for the promotion and marketing of services and products via Social Media channels. For more information visit www.fifedirect.org.uk/culture or contact Louise Trow on 01592 583255

SCORE (EUROPE) LTD DRIVING GROWTH SCORE (Europe) Ltd is gearing up for a recruitment drive this year. It aims to take on four engineering apprentices at its specialised valve test facility in Cowdenbeath and open a new facility in the region which would see the creation of an additional 30 jobs and service the oil and gas industry. Score (Europe) was established in 1982 in Peterhead and now employs 2000 personnel worldwide. The Cowdenbeath facility established in 1984 has grown in strength, currently employing 35 staff including 14 engineering apprentices. The company operates in a number of market sectors including, renewable energy, oil and gas, nuclear and others and supplies, maintains, services, refurbishes and tests sophisticated valves. Ian Farrow, Managing Director at Score (Europe) Ltd, said: “We recognised that if we were to continue to grow and expand we needed first class people with drive and ambition to achieve

high standards. This is being achieved through local recruitment and provision of modern apprenticeships. “Score’s apprentices are encouraged to grow and are supported to reach the highest level they can attain. Our apprentices travel the world as part of their six year training programme, working at other Score (Europe) Ltd and customer facilities in America, Canada, Norway, Trinidad & Tobago, Tunisia, Dubai, Indonesia and Australia. “With the support of Carnegie College we hope to deliver our first home grown chartered engineer from our Cowdenbeath facility. “The increase in resources will ensure we are well positioned to service our current client base but also make us agile enough to increase our business and meet new and existing customer expectations. “With diversification a key element, renewable energy provides a significant and exciting opportunity for us and our engineers have transferable skills to service this new energy market.”

CHAMBER SUPPORTS KINGDOM KIDS MEMBERS of Fife Chamber of Commerce raised £400 for local charity Kingdom Kids at its Christmas Lunch which was held at Balgeddie House Hotel in Glenrothes. The guest speaker on the day was Ruth Davidson, leader of the Scottish Conservative Party and the after lunch speaker was John McKelvie. Kingdom Kids is Kingdom FM’s children’s charity. The charity exists to raise and distribute funds to groups supporting under privileged and disadvantaged youngsters throughout Fife. In addition, funding is available to groups who are actively supporting the positive development of kids in its area.

NEW DUNFERMLINE OFFICE FOR FIFE CHAMBER FIFE Chamber of Commerce has moved into a new satellite office at Castle Business Centre, Pitreavie Business Park, Dunfermline. As the leading business voice in the region, and with its sights firmly set on reaching its goal of 400 members, the new office will help achieve its aims. Sharon Hopkinson, Membership Recruitment Executive at Fife Chamber, said: “I am looking forward to being in the business hub of west Fife allowing me to help local businesses develop and grow.” To find out how the Chamber can help your business, please contact Sharon Hopkinson on 01592 647740 or sharonhopkinson@fifechamber.co.uk

FIRST FEMALE SCOTTISH CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE CHAIR ADDRESSES FIFE MEMBERS NORA Senior, the newly appointed chair of Scottish Chambers of Commerce (SCC) and first businesswoman to be honoured with the position in its 64 year history, addressed local Chamber members on her key business priorities and objectives for the forthcoming year. Speaking to a comprehensive audience of Fife business men and woman, Nora described three key themes of collaboration, connection and communication, particularly on an international level, as vital to increasing and growing Scottish business opportunities. On the efforts and contributions made by Fife Chamber and its members, Nora spoke highly of the level of engagement that Fife Chamber continues to lead the way in. She praised the Chamber’s ongoing dialogue with local government and the positive impact it has on Fife businesses.

TRIBUTE TO ALAN RUSSELL FIFE Chamber of Commerce would like to pay tribute to Alan Russell, Chief Executive who passed away following a short illness. Alan was appointed as Chief Executive of Fife Chamber of Commerce & Enterprise Ltd in January 2006 at a time when the Chamber was losing members and its standing in the Fife business community was at an all-time low. During Alan’s time with the Chamber the organisation has been restructured in every sense and has developed an improved offering to businesses including the launch of a range of ‘added value’ products for its members and membership numbers have steadily grown. Alan will be remembered not simply for his contribution to Fife Chamber, which was significant, but for his commitment and passion for business generally and business in Fife in particular. Fife Chamber and business in Fife has lost a champion and the directors and staff of Fife Chamber a valued colleague.

FIFE COMPANIES SHOWCASE ENGINEERING EXCELLENCE AT SOUTHERN MANUFACTURING EXHIBITION

Exhibitions can be a very effective way to market your goods and services, raise your company’s profile and meet existing customers while targeting new ones. Fife Council’s Market Development Programme offers a practical and effective way for Fife companies to easily take part in events and trade shows. Fife Council organises group stands at major national and international events and provides a range of support services from advice and information to customised training. As part of the programme, this year’s Southern Manufacturing event – the UK’s largest regional manufacturing technology, electronics and subcontracting exhibition – held in Farnborough saw seven local companies exhibit on the Fife stand. AGS Electronics, BAE Systems, Coorstek, Fife Fabrications, Greenfold Systems Ltd, PR2 and Plastech Group showcased Fife’s engineering excellence at the two day event.

Pamela Stevenson, Lead Officer, Business Development, Fife Council Economic Development, said: “Southern Manufacturing takes place annually and covers a wide range of sectors including automotive, aerospace, defence, contract electronics, marine, medical, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, sub-contracting and test & measurement. “It is supported by a comprehensive programme of industry seminars and workshops addressing topics such as lean manufacturing, quality and supply chain management. The 2013 exhibition will be the largest to date, it includes new product zones and industry supplier trails with over 600 exhibitors and over 6,500 visitors expected. “Companies participating on the Fife stand last year received over 60 enquiries between them with potential orders worth over £1million. Other Fife companies visiting the show were able to use the stand as a base to explore the show and consider participation at this or other events in the Market Development Programme.” Forthcoming Market Development events programme March 2013 Eco Build 2013, Excel, London Eco Build is the world’s biggest event for sustainable design, construction and the built environment.

April 2013 Med-Tech Innovation 2013, Coventry A 100% dedicated medical technology event. April 2013 Railtex 2013, London The UK’s largest railway equipment, systems and services exhibition. May 2013 All Energy 2013, AECC, Aberdeen Renewable energy - wind (onshore and offshore), wave, tidal, hydro, hydrogen and fuel cells, solar and biofuels. September 2013 Offshore Europe 2013, AECC, Aberdeen Offshore oil & gas exploration - drilling, fabrication, support services and key issues across the upstream oil & gas and energy sector. September 2013 Recycling and Waste Management, NEC, Birmingham The Recycling & Waste Management Exhibition (RWM) is the undisputed leading exhibition for the recycling and waste management sector. For more information please contact Alan McKay on 08451 55 55 55 ext492180 or alan.mckay@fife.gov.uk

Honour the ones who didn’t come home. Help Erskine care for the ones who did.

Erskine has been providing care, accommodation and employment for ex-Service men and women in Scotland since 1916. We depend heavily on the generosity of people like you to continue doing the valuable work we do. So please give whatever you can.

To donate, visit www.erskine.org.uk or call free on 0300 123 1203. Erskine is the trading name of Erskine Hospital. Scottish Charity Number SC006609.

Helping furnish the people of Fife

For more information email enquiries@furnitureplus.org.uk or call: 01592 654546 Branches thoughout Fife Furniture Plus is a Registered Charity (SC032833) and a Company Limited by Guarantee (SC225920)

Quality recycled furniture at prices to suit all budgets

Furniture Plus in Fife is a charity based ReUse and Recycling Social Enterprise for Furniture, Household and Electrical Items. It has a mission to “Help Furnish the People of Fife” and offers low cost or discounted items to anyone, while simultaneously delivering employability options through work and skills based placements/training. With branches in Dysart, Cowdenbeath & Inverkeithing, everyone can benefit from the low prices on all items. Find out more information at www.furnitureplus.org.uk

dtech designers

& publishers

www.dtechuk.com

Publishers of

eN t

e R p Ri S e

ThE PerthShire ChAMBEr OF COMMErCE BUSInESS MAgAZInE

ISSUE 17 • SPrIng 2013

AUTUMN ISSUE • 2012

THE MID, EAST & WEST LOTHIAN CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

THE

INcommerce

Lanarkshire CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

JOHN SWINNEY MSP, CABINET SECRETARY FOR FINANCE, EMPLOYMENT AND SUSTAINABLE GROWTH IS A GUEST SPEAKER AT THE LOTHIAN CHAMBERS KEYNOTE LUNCH IN NOVEMBER 2012

c eS

ISSUE 18 • SPRING 2013

c S

THE DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

INcommerce

paGeS 32 - 35

ISSUE 9

BORDER

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THE FORTH VALLEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

CO PY

ISSUE 2 • SPRING 2013

Recyke-a-bike Social Enterprise in Motion

TAKES THE BISCUIT to round off a record year - pages 10 & 11

PerthShire PErFECTLY PLACED FOr BUSInESS AUTO-ENROLMENT: THE BIGGEST CHANGE IN EMPLOYER PENSION REQUIREMENTS IN THE LAST 20 YEARS

JoYce YoUNG, obe - paGe 9

• Provost liz Grant in the spotlight

MoNeY, MoNeY, MoNeY - paGe 12 & 13

• Place your biDS

FalSe FiRe alaRMS - paGe 31

• “breakfast to go” for busy business people

Dunbartonshire Issue 18 - Spring 2012.indd 1

LOCAL COLLEGE SUPPORTS ENTERPRISE & ENTREPRENEURSHIP ACROSS THE LOTHIANS DEVELOPING WIN:WIN PARTNERSHIPS Cover photo courtesy of John Swinney’s Perthshire North Constituency Office

• LANARKSHIRE BUSINESS SUCCESSES - pages 4, 13, 26, 28 & 31 • GRADUATE JOBS SCHEME LAUNCH - pages 40 & 41

www.lanarkshirechamber.org

27/02/2013 13:26

InCommerce Dunbartonshire

www.forthvalleychamber.co.uk Forth Valley InCommerce Issue 2.indd 1

InCommerce Perthshire

InCommerce Mid, East & West Lothian

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22/02/2013 13:33

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DOING BUSINESS IN FIFE

Liberty Business Centre

FIFE’S distribution, renewables and industrial sectors are providing a much needed to boost to the region’s commercial property sector. Global businesses with growth firmly on the agenda, such as Amazon and Diageo, have developed major complexes. Smaller premises are readily available for lease with many local companies in a position to find suitable bases to conduct their business. Liberty Business Centres, which was established 10 years ago and has office spaces in Dalgety Bay and Rosyth, has a portfolio of over 100 office and studio units. Jerry Alexander, Managing Director, said: “Our serviced office units can be adapted to suit the needs of our clients. If a company is starting out as a two-man band and needs a base to get their business off the ground we can find them an office that works for them. Then if their business starts to grow and they employ a bigger workforce we are able to move them into larger premises.” Over 90% of office units are let at Liberty’s bases at Dalgety Bay and the Rosyth Europarc. A third site has just been added in the Europarc and a new space dedicated for mobile workers which will be known as Liberty Hub Space has just been created. This will be available on a monthly membership basis. Jerry added: “Having a co-working space will also offer more flexibility for businesses. Whether people are looking for a space to conduct a meeting or stop off to check their emails, the flexibility will help enhance the region’s offering of business premises.” Dr Mark Robertson, partner at commercial property consultants Ryden, said: “The big players in Fife’s business economy are currently food and drink, distribution and energy. These large investments lead to development of major new business premises, and in turn, open the door to opportunities for smaller Fife-based companies in the supply chain who will require smaller business units to lease. “Although there is a perception that lots of property will be available due to the weak economy, funding restrictions have prevented development in many locations and supply of smaller units can actually be rather limited.”

hanging career helped Karen Bell set up a business that allows her to spend more time with her children whilst also indulging in her passion – horses. The 41-year-old, from Kinglassie, who had worked as a nurse manager for 18 years, launched Equine Express Fife in May last year after gaining help and advice from Business Gateway Fife. The business, which transports horses, taking them to new yards, the vet, to shows or for a day out at the beach for their owners, operates throughout the whole of the region. Karen said: “I enjoy meeting new people and hearing all their stories about the horses I am transporting for them. I’m starting to get more and more business through word of mouth which is really satisfying as it means previous clients have found my services good enough to recommend. “People also like the fact that I own three horses and getting repeat business is a real boost is it re-affirms there is a need for my services in the area.” Karen added: “Setting up has been a learning curve but with the help of Business Gateway Fife I slowly worked my way through the process. My adviser was extremely helpful and the seminars helped me understand exactly what I needed to do before starting out.”

news in brief

Karen Bell from Equine Express

EQUINE EXPRESS SADDLES UP FOSTERING GOOD RELATIONS

Fostering Relations, the Dalgety Bay based organisation that helps find foster homes for children and young people in Fife, is enjoying its fifth year of success. Started by Fife social worker Dianne MacDonald with one carer family and two children in placement, it now has two branches, employs 60 foster carers and 13 members of staff. Dianne praised everyone who had helped her achieve quality and success. She said: “My vision was to establish an agency that would help children and young people throughout Fife. We created a management structure and procedures and approached Business Gateway to ensure we were on the right track in being able to meet our goals.

 £650,000 investment in Rusacks Macdonald Rusacks Hotel is benefitting from a £650,000 bedroom transformation. The investment will see 40 bedrooms including four junior and senior suites transformed.

 Biomass plant fuels growth Transportation from Malcolm Logistics was awarded a multimillion pound contract to carry thousands of tonnes of wood chippings to a new £200 million biomass plant being built in Markinch.

 Women mean business A Fife Women in Business re-launch event, sponsored by Business Gateway, attracted more than 70 women to hear talks from inspirational speakers and network with other business owners. Fife Women in Business hold regular meetings and provide support, guidance and networking as benefits to their members.

 New jobs in care Avenue Care Services is planning to create up to 40 jobs throughout the region, taking its workforce to 170 with social care officer workers as demand for careat-home soars. The company was established in 2011 and has already created 130 jobs across Scotland.

“Business Gateway also helped us with marketing and promotion and having their input has really helped us achieve our aims to become one of the very best rated fostering agencies in Scotland”. The organisation has recently been awarded five excellent gradings by the Care Inspectorate for the quality of care and support, staff and management it provides. It is the only foster provider in Scotland to have achieved this outstanding level of quality.

FBM meets... Stacey-Lee Ferry, Managing Director at Ductform BORN and bred in Fife, Stacey-Lee Ferry has worked at Ductform since she left school at 16. Starting out within administration she worked her way up the ranks and is now Managing Director of the company, which is based at Southfield Industrial Estate in Glenrothes, and employs a current workforce of 70. Tell us about your background: Ductform was set up by my father, Owen Ferry, in 1977. When I left school 24 years

ago, it was a natural choice for me to join the family firm. I started out with general office duties and progressed on to accounts and payroll. After having my family I moved into HR - it was from here that I started to learn more about the ropes of running a business and wanting to take on a more challenging and active role. In 2004 my father announced he was looking to retire and along with my two

brothers we bought over the company in 2005. Ductform is a well-established Fife business. Tell us about it and its future: Our core business is the manufacture, distribution and installation of ventilation ductwork. We currently operate from a 34,000sq ft. production facility and service a wide range of clients across Scotland and the UK. In addition to our contracting service, through our trade counter and website, we also stock a wide variety of bespoke products to assist stoves, wood/coal burners and chimneys, such as flue pipe, register plates, log storage and transformations. We just recently completed the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome Stadium in Glasgow and are currently working on ‘ the Hydro Arena’ in Glasgow. What specific industry issues or barriers are there that you would like to change in order to help Fife trade businesses flourish? The introduction of ‘Project Bank Accounts’ so that all suppliers and contractors trading within the construction industry receive fair payment for work undertaken which will improve cashflow and reduce risk. We have been a member of our trade body association B&ES (formally the HVCA) for over 25 years. Along with them I am in direct discussion with MSPs on the potential for piloting ‘project bank accounts’. PBAs would provide a payment facility which would offer protection for all contractors involved in the supply chain. This protection would reduce the risk currently incurred throughout contracting due to the knock on effect of insolvencies and payment abuse through shortfall and late payment. The construction industry at present suffers quite severely in terms of bank funding given the level of risk attached. If successful, this introduction would help revive the construction industry in reducing the current level of caution and uncertainty.

ScotAsh receiving the Success Through Sustainability Award in the Fife Business Awards

ScotAsh CELEBRATES MAJOR MILESTONES ScotAsh, producer of eco cements and grouts made from power station ash, is starting 2013 on a high note, after celebrating a hat trick of successes at the end of last year. In November the company, based at Longannet Power Station, achieved the major safety milestone of 10 years without a Lost Time Injury to employees or contractors, clocking up an impressive 3,652 working days and 560,678 hours of work, injury-free.

“We have always prioritised the safety and wellbeing of our people ahead of production targets and every member of the team is encouraged to put forward ideas that make ScotAsh a safe and healthy place to work.” ScotAsh’s excellent safety performance has been recognised in a national award scheme. In 2012 ScotAsh received its sixth consecutive health and safety award from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA).

ScotAsh Director Allan Everett said: “Achieving 10 years without a Lost Time Injury is a magnificent achievement for an industrial site and every employee has contributed to our success by identifying risks and helping to put right anything that could affect health and safety.

The company was also Highly Commended in the People Effectiveness category at the Manufacturing Excellence Awards, run by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers. It was the only Scottish firm among the 12 UK finalists of the MX programme, which each year recognises the best of British manufacturing.

It is the second time ScotAsh has been recognised by the scheme – previously it was shortlisted in the Sustainable Manufacturing category. Chris Bennett, ScotAsh’s Sales & Quality Manager and Chair of Green Business Fife, said: “ScotAsh is proud to have done well, once again, in the Manufacturing Excellence Awards and to know that the way we manage and train our people is on a par with the very best in the UK.” In December, ScotAsh received the Success Through Sustainability Award in the Fife Business Awards for its sustainable products and practises, once again underlining the company’s environmental credentials.

CA Cameron ACA An accountant you can talk to For me, it’s important that accountancy shouldn’t be seen as a ‘dark art’. Instead, I am more than happy to explain the accounting process and answer all those questions that you haven’t been able to ask before. After all, it’s important that you understand what your ‘figures’ mean.

A Unique Venue For Your Business Event

Professional & Personal Service for: • Business Advice • Business Accounts • Business & Personal Tax Returns • Company Accounts • Corporate Tax • Management Accounts • Business Planning

Set amid the rolling hills of Fife, Pitcairlie House is an ideal location for all kinds of corporate and business hospitality and events, including select private dinner parties (with a theme or entertainment if required), seminars, lectures or “away days”.

• Industry Bench Marking & Forecasting

Christa Cameron CA Cameron ACA Chartered Accountant Opera Close, 22B Court Street, Haddington, East Lothian EH41 3JA Tel: 01620 822 923 • Mob: 07799 636882 ca@cacameron.co.uk • www.cacameron.co.uk

Sean Brown Plumbing and Heating Ltd is an established small company based in the Fife area where the personal Heating Installations touch is the main focus on the work Renewable Energy we carry out. We cover all parts Bathroom Installations of Fife, the Lothians, Tayside and Plumbing Services Central Scotland, and if required by our customers we will travel further to ensure our customers receive the highest standard of work.

Our country retreat setting offers an exclusive location for a board or management meeting.

Benfits include: • A warm and friendly welcome. • Attention is paid to detail to ensure success. • Confidentiality in all matters. • Custom tailored package to cater for all your requirements. • Use of wireless Internet. • Ability to walk around our 120 acre estate on maintained pathways. “Away Days” include: • Leadership. • The way forward. • Team building.

telephone 01337 827418 • mobile 07831 646157

www.pitcairlie-leisure.co.uk

• Member of the Fife Trusted Trader Scheme.

• Approved installer of NorDan & Luvipol doors/windows.

• Showroom displaying internal and

external doors, windows and fittings.

• Conservatories/extensions & renovations.

• All trades supplied, fitting kitchens and bathrooms using a registered plumber and electrician.

Craftwork (Fife) Ltd. 20 Sauchenbush Road, Kirkcaldy, Fife, KY2 5RL Mobile: 07739 15 15 05 • Phone: 01592 263 544 www.seanbrownplumbingandheating.co.uk

Tel: 01592 651910 Mob: 07984370967 Email: craftworkfifeltd@gmail.com www.craftworkfifeltd.co.uk

ENTERPRISING INITIATIVES FOR FIFE SCHOOL PUPILS

left to right - George Sneddon Fife Council, John Dignan Dynamic EMS, Pamela Stevenson Fife Council, Jerome Finlayson SMAS

A series of enterprising initiatives organised by Fife Council’s economic development department, through the Culture of Enterprise initiative, gave Fife primary school children a taste of running a business. Through the Enterprise Manufacturing Challenge, primary 7 pupils from 25 of the region’s schools competed against each other to manufacture and sell products to local business people. Teams took on company roles, such as designer, quality control manager and finance director in order to fulfil tasks. It is the first time such a scheme has focused on this sector which plays a leading role in the region and it is hoped more youngsters will be encouraged into the sector as there are approximately 200 manufacturing and engineering businesses in Fife. Chris Parr, chair of the Fife Economy Partnership, welcomed the challenge. He said: “Manufacturing in Fife is still the area’s largest single sector, employing around 13,000 people. Companies are doing well despite the economic climate and in fact many of Fife’s manufacturing companies are at the leading edge and investing heavily in R&D, skills and new plant and technology. They are always keen to talk to young people to say we offer a great career opportunity.”

Pupils from Letham Primary School

Penny Press Project Family-run Penny Press Factory, one of only six manufacturers worldwide of Penny Presses, worked closely with Letham Primary School over several weeks on a Penny Press enterprise project, which involved pupils aged from five to twelve years developing their own pennies and understanding running a business. This included sessions on how a penny press worked, how it has been developed, what kind of customers use them and what makes a good design. Working in groups, pupils came up with a design which was then presented to a judging panel which included Fife Council’s Employability & Skills service manager Lucinda McAllister and Pamela Stevenson, lead officer in Economic Development. Four of the best designs selected were made. Alan Fleming, International Business Director of Penny Press Factory, said: “Bringing the international business experience to pupils and giving them real life practical examples of business enterprise with a product they can directly relate to in a format that is interactive, entertaining, creative and educational. “In quite possibly an unprecedented move - possibly the first time ever in history- we brought a penny press into the classroom and allowed pupils to interact with it first-hand. “We explained that what they saw before them started off as an idea and then went through the steps required to get that idea into reality. This, fundamentally is what business enterprise is - having an idea and following it through to fruition.” Ian Macaulay, Head Teacher at Letham Primary School, said: “There was much reciprocal learning between the school and Alan’s team at all stages of this enterprise project. Children gained a rich understanding of business through the process of teamwork, taking tough decisions, and of meeting deadlines. It was a superb context for skills transfer of literacy and numeracy skills.”

Modern Apprenticeship in Enterprise launched Scotland’s first Modern Apprenticeship in Enterprise has been launched, with the qualification being piloted by Cupar-based business the Careers Studio and supported by Fife Council Economic Development. The aim is that by creating a vibrant enterprise culture in Fife will help address underlying enterprise and employability weaknesses in the region’s business base and encourage sustainable economic growth. Founder of the Careers Studio and Careers Adviser, Ronnie Davidson, said: “Enterprise apprenticeships are a great way for employers to bring young people into a business because the apprentices quickly develop an emotional investment in what they are doing. An enterprise apprenticeship is not just about going to work, it’s about learning how to develop new opportunities and influence the business you are working in.” He added: “As Scotland’s first and only SFEDI (Small Firms Enterprise Development Initiative) Awards Centre we are really excited to be developing the scheme and piloting with three young people in our own business. This would not have been possible without the support of our partners at Fife Council through the Culture of Enterprise Initiative.” Councillor Chris Parr, Chairman of the Fife Economy Partnership welcomed the new apprenticeship and said: “This is an excellent day for the Career Studio and a great milestone for Fife as a pilot Modern Apprenticeship is launched for Enterprise in Cupar. It’s wonderful to see such enthusiasm and commitment to take forward this new and significant qualification.”

FIFE BUSINESSES DROP IN FOR ADVICE AT PROCUREMENT SURGERIES Fife Council Economic Development, as part of the Scottish wide Supplier Development Programme, ran a successful series of monthly procurement surgeries facilitated by procurement officers from Fife Council. A total of 30 businesses were seen during the course of the one to one surgeries which helped to support local businesses with the tendering process. It gave businesses an insight of what the Council buy and how they could get involved to become potential suppliers. A range of businesses were seen - from companies who have never been involved in procurement before, experienced bidders and firms who wanted to make themselves known to the Council and share their new innovative ideas. Local family-run business Geyer Plant Services, which assembles and repairs hydraulic hoses, had no previous experience in the tendering process and attended the surgeries. June Geyer said: “The surgeries helped take away the fear of knowing who to contact and enabled us to have a frank and easy to understand discussion about the best way to approach procurement.”

The Supplier Development Programme offers a full range of training, events and business advice to help companies compete for tenders and all free of charge to our members. To find out more and to register with the programme visit www.sdpscotland.co.uk/fife If you are a local business and interested in attending a procurement surgery please contact carlene.simpson@fife.gov.uk

Events Diary EVENT TITLE

VENUE

DATE & TIME

COST

CONTACT

PR on a Shoestring

Kingdom House, Saltire Centre, Glenrothes

7 March 9.30 -12.30

Free

To book www.bgateway.com/events or call 01592 858333

Improve Your Search Engine Ranking

Kingdom House, Saltire Centre, Glenrothes

8 March 9.30 – 12.30

Free

To book www.bgateway.com/events or call 01592 858333

Advertising and Promotion

Kingdom House, Saltire Centre, Glenrothes

12 March 9.30 -12.30

Free

To book www.bgateway.com/events or call 01592 858333

Green Business Fife – Best Practice Visit

Fisher Services Ltd, Prestonhall Industrial Estate, Cupar, Fife KY15 4RD

12 March 9.30

Free

To find out how Fishers became more efficient and environmentally aware and to get a tour of the site please contact Dot Smith at dorothy. smith@fife.gov.uk

Fife Chamber Breakfast Meeting -Increase Your Profits by Increasing Your Sales Marketing Plan

Tiffanys, Carnegie Hall, Dunfermline

14 March 7.45 – 10.00

Members £15 + VAT Non-members £30 + VAT

Book online now at www.fifechamber.co.uk/ events or contact Kelly Lister kellylister@ fifechamber.co.uk

Value Added Tax

Kingdom House, Saltire Centre, Glenrothes

14 March 10.00 – 12.30

Free

To book www.bgateway.com/events or call 01592 858333

Newly Self Employed – The Basics

Dunfermline Business Centre, Izatt Avenue, Dunfermline

15 March 9.30-12.30

Free

To book www.bgateway.com/events or call 01592 858333

Trading Online

Kingdom House, Saltire Centre, Glenrothes

15 March 9.30 - 12.30

Free

To book www.bgateway.com/events or call 01592 858333

Mastering Selling Skills

Kingdom House, Saltire Centre, Glenrothes

19 March 9.30 -12.30

Free

To book www.bgateway.com/events or call 01592 858333

Tourism Workshop – Exhibition Training for Tourism Businesses

Kingdom House, Saltire Centre, Glenrothes

20 March 9.30 – 12.30

Free

To book call 01592 858333 or email success@ bgfife.co.uk

Business Expenses & Capital Allowances for the Self Employed

Dunfermline Business Centre, Izatt Avenue, Dunfermline

22 March 9.30-12.30

Free

To book www.bgateway.com/events or call 01592 858333

WordPress

Kingdom House, Saltire Centre, Glenrothes

22 March 9.30 - 12.30

Free

To book www.bgateway.com/events or call 01592 858333

Basic Book-keeping

Kingdom House, Saltire Centre, Glenrothes

26 March 9.30-12.30

Free

To book www.bgateway.com/events or call 01592 858333

Fife Chamber - Policing Scotland. Speaker: Chief Superintendent Garry McEwan, Fife Constabulary

Dunfermline Athletic Football Club

27 March 12.00 – 14.00

Members £20+VAT Non-members £40 + VAT

Book online now at www.fifechamber.co.uk/ events or contact Kelly Lister kellylister@ fifechamber.co.uk

Tourism Workshop – Profit on a Plate

Elmwood House, Carslogie Road, Cupar

8 April 9.00 – 17.00

Free

To book call 01592 858333 or email success@ bgfife.co.uk

Social Media

Kingdom House, Saltire Centre, Glenrothes

10 April 9.30 -12.30

Free

To book www.bgateway.com/events or call 01592 858333

Fife Chamber – Export Procedures and Documents

Evans Business Centre, John Smith Business Park, Kirkcaldy, KY2 6HD

7 May 9.00 – 17.00

Members £150 + VAT Non-members £300 + VAT

To book a place visit www.fifechamber.co.uk/ events or for more information contact jacquicurley@fifechamber.co.uk

Fife Chamber Breakfast Meeting -Increase Your Profits by Increasing Your Sales Networking

Rothes Halls, Glenrothes

18 April 7.45 – 10.00

Members £15 + VAT Non-members £30 + VAT

Book online now at www.fifechamber.co.uk/ events or contact Kelly Lister kellylister@ fifechamber.co.uk

Basic Book-keeping

Dunfermline Business Centre, Izatt Avenue, Dunfermline

23 April 9.30-12.30

Free

To book www.bgateway.com/events or call 01592 858333

Get Real Results from Your Website

Dunfermline Business Centre, Izatt Avenue, Dunfermline

2 May 9.30 -12.30

Free

To book www.bgateway.com/events or call 01592 858333

Marketing Your Business

Dunfermline Business Centre, Izatt Avenue, Dunfermline

7 May 9.30 – 12.30

Free

To book www.bgateway.com/events or call 01592 858333

Fife Chamber – How to Handle Letters of Credit

Evans Business Centre, John Smith Business Park, Kirkcaldy, KY2 6HD

7 May 9.00 – 17.00

Members £150 + VAT Non-members £300 + VAT

To book a place visit www.fifechamber.co.uk/ events or for more information contact jacquicurley@fifechamber.co.uk

Improve Your Search Engine Ranking

Dunfermline Business Centre, Izatt Avenue, Dunfermline

9 May 9.30 – 12.30

Free

To book www.bgateway.com/events or call 01592 858333

PR on a Shoestring

Kingdom House, Saltire Centre, Glenrothes

9 May 9.30 -12.30

Free

To book www.bgateway.com/events or call 01592 858333

Advertising and Promotion

Dunfermline Business Centre, Izatt Avenue, Dunfermline

14 May 9.30 -12.30

Free

To book www.bgateway.com/events or call 01592 858333

Trading Online

Dunfermline Business Centre, Izatt Avenue, Dunfermline

16 May 9.30 - 12.30

Free

To book www.bgateway.com/events or call 01592 858333

Fife Chamber – Joint event with Fife Women in Business - Ladies Day at the Races

Perth Racecourse, Scone

16 May 10.30 – 19.00

Members £60 + VAT Non-members £60 + VAT

To book a place visit www.fifechamber.co.uk/ events or for more information contact sharonhopkinson@fifechamber.co.uk

Mastering Selling Skills

Dunfermline Business Centre, Izatt Avenue, Dunfermline

21 May 9.30 – 12.30

Free

To book www.bgateway.com/events or call 01592 858333

WordPress

Dunfermline Business Centre, Izatt Avenue, Dunfermline

23 May 9.30 - 12.30

Free

To book www.bgateway.com/events or call 01592 858333

Basic Book-keeping

Kingdom House, Saltire Centre, Glenrothes

28 May 9.30-12.30

Free

To book www.bgateway.com/events or call 01592 858333

Are you looking for Business Finance? If you’re a Fife start up or established business with a commercially viable proposal, we could help provide the finance to meet your needs. We offer Loans of up to £50,000 • Security may be required • Fixed interest rates at 6% • The loan will account for no more than 50% of the funding package. Loans can be used for: • The purchase of plant and equipment • Provision of working capital • Purchase, expansion or refurbishment of commercial property • Purchase of a business.

Who can apply? • Businesses with commercially viable proposals • Applicants must have a gap in their funding package • All types of businesses - sole traders, partnerships and limited companies. How long does it take? • Usually a decision can be made within 6 weeks. All enquiriesare arewelcome welcome All types of enquiries Call Storie on 01592 858333 Call Brian Peter Livingstone on 01592 858333 or www.eastscotinvest.co.uk or visit www.eastscotinvest.co.uk for information. for more information.

Looking for funding or advice? We can help.

Fife Investment Fund • for businesses with up to 50 employees, in manufacturing, business-to-business services and tourism. • expenditure on plant & machinery; property improvements; new product development and process improvement can be supported. • grant funding of up to £5,000. Market Development Programme • provides assistance for exhibiting at trade shows in the UK & overseas and organised trade missions. • grant funding of 50% of eligible costs to a maximum of £2,000.

Expert Help • provides fully-funded or part-funded consultancy support. • typical projects can include marketing; sales; PR; human resources; process development; quality and finance. East of Scotland Investment Fund • loans of up to £50,000. • 5-year repayment period. • 6% current interest rates • full details at www.eastscotinvest.co.uk

0845 609 6611 www.bgateway.com

Business Gateway services are delivered by Local Authorities, Scottish Enterprise and Scottish Government with the support of associated partner organisations. Maximum call charge from BT landline is 3p a minute.