Fife business matters issue 29 issuu

ISSUE 29 • WINTER 2014

LOCAL BUSINESS NEWS: see more success stories

FIFE BUSINESS MATTERS

FIFE BUSINE S S WEEK INSPIRES A S FBM CELEBR A TES 2014 SUCCES SES

www.fifebusinessmatters.co.uk

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Contents P4-5

Scotland’s oldest family run business has big ambition

WELCOME

P6

Fife Business Week round-up

to Fife Business Matters

P8

Business advice for the year ahead

P10

The Prince’s Trust Youth Business Scotland supports launch of Tangle Weave Designs

P12

Fife Tourism Partnership launches 10 year strategy to continue tourism growth

P13

Courier Business Awards

P15

Round-up from Fife Chamber of Commerce

P16

BGF: businesses fast track growth with High Value Start Up Service

P18-21

Spotlight on Fife Council’s Culture of Enterprise Framework

P24

FSB announces new Fife Chair

P25

£2 million investment to extend FYJC

P31

FBM meets Brand-Rex

P34

Events Diary

WELCOME to the latest issue of Fife Business Matters; an issue which celebrates the outstanding achievements of businesses across Fife.

Fife Business Week is a milestone worthy of celebration. We set out the first Business Week as a way to support local businesses in their efforts to progress, network and develop and, five years on, this year was no different as we hosted a stimulating programme of events, training with a range of skills developed and collaborative relationships built. The theme was inspiration so there is a hope that, through the series of events offered, those young people attending with the aim of starting out in business through to the established businesses looking for a new stage of growth, they will be inspired and will look ahead to 2015 with vigour, determination and excitement.

For one company you will read about in this issue, 2015 marks its 300th year in business. John White & Son, a family run business, is an example of how motivation can help keep a business relevant three centuries later.

As 2014 comes to a close, this issue reflects on the importance of young entrepreneurs as we introduce Mairi Morton who started up in business with help from The Prince’s Trust Youth Business Scotland and hear about the launch of the Fife Student Entrepreneur Award. In addition to award successes, I was inspired to read about the number of fleet operators who have joined ECO Stars, pledging to play their part in improving efficiencies, reducing fuel consumption and emissions.

I do hope you enjoy reading Fife Business Matters and on behalf of the Fife Economy Partnership, I wish you a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year.

Chris Parr, Chairman, Fife Economy Partnership

Publisher: DTech Publishing Ltd Fife Business Matters is published by DTech Publishing 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 DTech Publishing 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 0141 222 2202 email: sales@dtechuk.com

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Edwin White with a new weighbridge at customer BEAR Scotland.

Scotland’s oldest family run business has big ambition 4

JOHN White & Son (Weighing Machines) Ltd of Auchtermuchty in Fife is Scotland’s oldest family business and it will celebrate its 300th anniversary in 2015.

Managing Director Edwin White, the eighth generation of the White family, is still actively involved in the business, following in the footsteps of his ancestor John White who founded the business almost 300 years ago.

Edwin joined the business in 1965 and took over the running of the enterprise in 1996. He is joined on the board of directors by his wife Tio White, and Joyce Onuonga. Together with their team of dedicated staff covering a range of specialisms, there is a real ambition to take the business forward.

The company produced its first weighing machine – a “Dutch-End” beam scale – in 1715, which survives to this day. The technology of this first beam scale was quite advanced for the time and the production of this type of machine continued for about 100 years, after which the range of mechanical scales was expanded throughout the next two centuries.

John White & Son’s technical excellence was once again proven when in the 1970s the company was a pioneer in the development of electronic weighing. This technology is now an essential part of everyday life with companies across the world depending on electronic scales.

Today, John White & Son – JWS – continues to use cutting edge technology, providing comprehensive weighing solutions to its customers.

Customer care is critical to John White & Son, whose operations are governed by understanding the needs of its customers and offering them solutions that improve their operations. It does this by having a well trained and developed team. John White & Son is proud to say that it has a very low turnover of staff.

Edwin White commented: “The business is like a family. We have enjoyed a good relationship with our employees and I have worked with staff who joined the company as apprentices and retired at 65. One of our members of staff, Ronald Cameron retired in November after 50 years with the company. We could not

Beamscale made in Auchtermuchty in 1715.

achieve our high level of innovation without the contribution of the strong team we have.”

Working across many sectors and industries, JWS carries out routine maintenance, installations, site surveys and gives advice on the best applications for customers. It upgrades weighing equipment as well as offering new weighing machines for varied applications. The company’s checkweigher is widely used in the food & drinks industry, particularly for whisky bottling. It offers high precision weighing scales with the latest technology software, for use in the commercial sector for data management and unmanned operations.

JWS’s oldest customer Forbo (formerly Nairn’s) dates back to the 19th century

Edwin White with a new check-weighing system (as used in the whisky industry).

when it first purchased weighing scales from the firm, and continues to be a valued customer.

Edwin White added: “We have a longer track record than any other weighing specialist and by working closely with our customers, we have developed and maintained relationships which distinguish us from our competition and enhance the growth of our business.

“We are grateful to our existing customers and are looking forward to welcoming new customers so they can also enjoy the peace of mind that comes with our weighing solutions package.

“I’m really proud of what our company has achieved, not least our ability to respond

to a rapidly changing market place. We are a strong team and our combined expertise and experience is enabling us to move the company forward.

“The invaluable support we receive from Fife Council Economic Development and Business Gateway Fife is helping us to realise our ambitions for the future and the plans being developed now will ensure the business is well placed for success in the next 300 years.”

Edwin and his team have a number of celebrations lined up to mark this significant milestone including a civic reception for stakeholders in July supported by Fife Council. It will also mark the occasion with its customers and the local community.

Check-weighing system installed in a whisky bottling line.

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FIFE BUSINESS WEEK 2014 5 days: 28 events = great success!

TWENTY eight events took place during Fife Business Week 2014, which ran from 10th to 14th November. The initiative, now in its fifth year, once again attracted wide support from local businesses and partner organisations with a week-long series of business events, seminars and workshops all aimed at inspiring businesses.

Fife Business Week is supported by Fife Council Economic Development and Business Gateway Fife on behalf of the Fife Economy Partnership, with the aim of showcasing Fife’s business successes and fostering a greater sense of enterprise and entrepreneurship.

Events that took place included an Influencers’ Dinner hosted by the Scottish Council for Development and Industry (SCDI), sessions on debt recovery and contract negotiation, a manufacturing visit to Lamond and Murray’s facility in Inverkeithing and a large scale Meet the Buyer event.

Over 250 businesses attended Meet the Buyer, organised by Fife Council Economic Development as part of the Supplier Development Programme, to learn about doing business with Fife Council and a number of other public sector agencies.

Fife Business Week even headed to Birmingham with twelve of the region’s top engineering companies to attend Advanced Engineering, as part of Economic

Fife Business Week visited John Young Signs.

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The Scottish Council for Development and Industry hosted an Influencers’ Dinner as part of Fife Business Week.

Development’s Market Development Programme.

Closer to home, a visit to John Young Signs took place (pictured below). Guests toured its recently expanded premises; got a demonstration of its new state of the art equipment; and received an insight from John about his 25 years in the industry and the growth of the business.

Chris Parr, Chairman of Fife Economy Partnership, said: “The fifth Fife Business Week was an oustanding success. As an established event within the business calendar, it was wonderful to see so many from the local business community turn out to the programme of seminars, workshops, dinners and visits, all of which were aimed to inspire.

“The feedback was positive and we hope attendees will benefit, be insipired and attack the new year with added vigour.”

Cllr Lesley Laird, Depute Leader and Executive Spokesperson for Economy and Planning, said: “Fife Business Week was a great showcase for Fife as the best place to do business.

We have a broad mix of public and private sector support agencies, business experts and entrepreneurs who can work together to stimulate business opportunities. Fife Council and the Fife Economy Partnership are ambitious to see the local economy flourish, new business opportunities thrive and new jobs created.

“I hope that by supporting Fife Business Week local businesses benefitted from the range of initiatives and networking opportunities and will be inspired to develop their businesses further.”

MAKING sure there’s enough money to make ends meet is a challenge for everyone these days.

Uncertainty about finding work and trying to do more with less money is causing worry for families and communities across Fife. Local businesses also face challenges and are working hard to grow and develop their workforce. It’s a tough climate for everyone, and council services are no exception.

More people and businesses than ever need council support, yet there is less money coming in to fund services. That’s why Fife Council is committed to ensuring that its crucial employability and economic development services are delivered even more efficiently.

Cllr Lesley Laird, Depute Leader and Executive Spokesperson for Economy and Planning, said: “With £77 million to be saved we’ve big challenges and tough choices ahead. That’s why tackling unemployment and boosting the local economy is such a priority.

“We need to carefully balance some big ambitions we have for Fife. Investing in our people so that Fife’s key sectors like manufacturing, energy and low carbon technologies and tourism have the skills they need now and in the future.”

Cllr Laird added: “Making stronger links with schools, Fife College and the local business community, building on the strength of the Opportunities Fife Partnership, are key to helping us achieve our common goals.

“Supporting the existing business community and helping new business start despite the tough financial climate, through council supported services like Business Gateway Fife is also still important.”

Fife Council has launched its consultation following the publication of the administration’s draft budget. To find out more, visit: www.fifedirect.org.uk.

Cllr Lesley Laird.

news in brief

Jobs and business tackling Fife Council’s Big Change Challenge

Fife Business Diversity Awards recognise achievements

Winners of the Employer of the Year award at the Fife Business Diversity Awards 2014.

THE annual Fife Business Diversity Awards 2014 have been celebrating the achievements of people, organisations and businesses in Fife who provide employment for people with disabilities and health issues.

Amongst the winners was Sainsbury’s, Kirkcaldy, which scooped Employer of the Year for its commitment to equality in the workplace. It provides flexible paid and unpaid work opportunities tailored for people with disabilities and health issues interested in experiencing the world of work.

Starbucks, St Andrews scooped the silver award in that category, with Zest, also located in St Andrews, picking up the bronze award.

In another category, Dunfermline’s Abbot House Heritage Centre was recognised for its commitment to supporting work placements, winning the Voluntary Work Provider of the Year award for a second year running.

Fife Provost Cllr Jim Leishman, said: “Supported employment services are instrumental in ensuring that people with disabilities and health issues are given the encouragement, guidance and personalised support that they need to find and keep jobs, something that many of us take for granted.

“Fife can be rightly proud of the innovation and partnership working that goes on to achieve the success that we celebrate today. I’d also like to commend Fife’s employers who are providing work placements and paid jobs, breaking down barriers that prevent people with disabilities and health issues achieving their work goals.”

/ THOMSON COOPER EXPANDS Fife accountants Thomson Cooper, which this year celebrates its 65th year in business, has expanded into Edinburgh. An acquisition of Bill Hay & Co. signals a new period of significant growth and investment for the firm which, since September, has been offering a broad range of accounting and business advisory services from its Edinburgh office in Stafford Street, in addition to its Fife presence.

Thomson Cooper is also celebrating being awarded ‘exceptional’ status as part of Investor in Customers (IIC). It is the first accountancy firm in Scotland to gain this recognition.

/ NEW OPERATIONS DIRECTOR AT OLD COURSE HOTEL The Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa in St Andrews has appointed David Scott as Director of Operations. David joined the Duke’s Golf Club in 2008, also owned by Kohler Co, before which he was director of golf at Kingsbarns Golf Links.

/ WORLD RECOGNITION FOR PARTNERSHIP TRAINING IN FIFE A partnership project involving Healthy Working Lives Fife and Fife Council’s Consumer and Business Education Team to provide free certified health and safety training to workplaces has received global recognition.

Since 2012 Healthy Working Lives Fife has worked in partnership with Fife Council to offer the Royal Environmental Health Institute of Scotland (REHIS) Elementary Health & Safety Certificate to workplaces. REHIS chose to showcase this initiative as an example of the excellent work going on in Scotland at the International Federation of Environmental Health World Congress on Environmental Health in Las Vegas.

For more news in brief see P12

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Ian Fraser of Pagan Osborne.

New Year’s Resolutions for small businesses to thrive in 2015

SMALL business owners are being encouraged to make a checklist of New Year’s Resolutions for their enterprises as 2015 dawns to ensure their businesses survive and thrive in the coming year.

Experts from the Commercial & Business Services team at legal, financial and property company Pagan Osborne know through their experience of dealing with clients of various sizes and sectors, that taking the time to have a fresh look at operations and considering change can dramatically improve the bottom line and future success for a business.

Ian Fraser, Commercial & Business Services partner at Pagan Osborne, said: “When running a small business there are a myriad of concerns to consider on a daily basis, with the main focus of owners’ energy often dedicated to the day-to-day running. The advent of a new year allows for a time of reflection and forward planning that can make a real difference to the success of the business in the short, medium and long terms.”

Ian suggests that the following areas are good places to start when considering how to keep your business moving from strength to strength in 2015:

• Review of operational activities: Taking an overview of the running of the business can allow it to be operated more effectively. Be objective – is everything being done in the best way, are there new markets or opportunities available, how effective are staff development schemes? Other areas to consider include reviewing supplier lists to check if the best deal is being achieved and marketing activities so that the businesses’ expertise and skills are known by their target clients.

• Rent review: Landlords need to be aware when rent reviews are due and ensure that if an upwards review is included in the lease that this be considered at the right time. It is equally important for tenants to be aware when this review is due to prepare for any increase in rent or to negotiate a reduction.

If you are thinking about starting a business or are already operating in Fife, contact the small business specialists at Pagan Osborne for personally tailored advice. For more information, visit: www.paganosborne.com or email Ian Fraser: ifraser@pagan.co.uk.

• Cash flow and credit control: It is important to review cash flow regularly as banks are increasingly focused on this when reviewing credit facilities. It is imperative that small businesses don’t become a bank to their customers by exercising lax credit control.

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• Tax returns: The deadline is fast looming for 2015 tax returns.

It is essential that these are done on time as individuals and businesses face hefty fines for missing the 31st January deadline. It may be worth consulting a tax specialist to ease the process.

• Succession planning: Many small business owners may not have considered their exit strategy. Whether it is selling the business to take another job, setting up another business or retiring – there are steps that can be taken from an early stage to get the business ready to pass onto the next generation or sell to another party, while also considering personal and professional tax issues.

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The Prince’s Trust Youth Business Scotland supports launch of Tangle Weave Designs Mairi Morton.

A YOUNG photographer launched a new venture at the Pittenweem Arts Festival with support from The Prince’s Trust Youth Business Scotland (PTYBS).

Mairi Morton (28) from Coaltown of Wemyss has a passion for capturing Scottish influenced imagery which, combined with her love for Scottish tartans, wools and tweeds, has enabled her to create a bespoke business aimed at adding a splash of Scottish style into homes and interiors.

Mairi explains: “My style has been greatly shaped by my childhood influences and love for the outdoors. With both parents being textile designers and weavers, I was brought up with an appreciation of colour, texture, pattern and print. Previously with the vibrant, earthy colours of the Scottish Border landscapes where I grew up and now seaward by the rustic, weathered coastal fringe of Fife, I love fusing textiles and natural colour with my photography.”

Mairi launched Tangle Weave Designs at this year’s Pittenween Arts Festival. A £1000 grant from The Prince’s Trust Youth Business Scotland helped Mairi with the exhibiting costs as well as general start-up costs.

Mairi said: “This year, my businesses have really taken off and it’s thanks to The Prince’s Trust Youth Business Scotland. I’ve had great help from the Trust’s Regional Manager Marissa Yassen, in particular with my business plan which I presented to a panel of representatives from the business community to secure my funding.

“With a start-up grant I was able to exhibit at the Pittenweem Arts Festival which was a superb launch pad. With the funds I generated there, I attended the Country Living Fair in Glasgow in November.”

Mairi is also a portrait and commercial photographer for small local businesses and runs Mairi Helena Photography. Talking about the future Mairi has ambitious plans. She said: “I would be absolutely thrilled to have my collections displayed and on sale in some of Scotland’s finest country retail outlets, like House of Bruar. I would also like to collaborate with interior designers to get my collections into hotels.

“There’s a lot to be done, but I’m excited about the future.”

PTYBS works closely with Business Gateway Fife to support young people aged 18 – 30 to start-up and grow in business. It provides essential funding and professional mentoring support including advice on writing a business plan, introductory finance training as well as offering loans of up to £5000 and grants of up to £1000.

To find out more about PTYBS visit: www.princes-trust.org.uk or email: marissa.yassen@princes-trust.org.uk.

View Mairi’s work at: www.tangleweavedesigns.co.uk; www.mairihelenaphotography.co.uk.

Postcards of Fife from Mairi’s collection.

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Lake Como International Golf Travel Market date for Kingsbarns Distillery FIFE’S Kingsbarns Distillery exhibited at the International Golf Travel Market at Lake Como in October as part of Visit Scotland’s drive to promote golf holidays in Scotland.

With the distillery’s proximity to world famous golf courses such as Kingsbarns and St Andrews and a new visitors centre opening in December, the event was an ideal forum to attract overseas visitors.

Kingsbarns’ attendance was aided by a Market Development Grant of £1400 from Fife Council. Grants are available for eligible Fife businesses attending trade exhibitions or to participate in overseas trade missions.

Douglas Clement, Kingsbarns Visitor Centre Manager, said: “This is the world’s premier golf travel event where Scottish companies can do business with buyers from all major international markets including Scandinavia, Germany, the USA and Asia.

“As our target market for visitors to our distillery is golfers after their rounds at nearby courses, attendance at the show is key to our future success.”

For more information on funding, call Business Gateway Fife on 01592 858333 or for details of upcoming exhibitions, call Alan McKay, Fife Council, on 03451 555555 ext 492180.

Douglas Clement (left) and William Wemyss ready to tee off for the new visitors centre at Kingsbarns Distillery.

Explore new markets & opportunities FIFE Council’s Market Development Programme (MDP) offers a practical and effective way for Fife companies to take part in events and trade shows. 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.

Recent MDP events include a visit to Northern Manufacturing & Electronics in Manchester. AGS Electronics, Greenfold Systems and Key-Tech Electronics participated and received a number of new business enquiries.

Local companies also participated in a learning journey to Advanced Engineering in Birmingham which provided the opportunity to assess potential

opportunities in current and new markets and to see first-hand the latest technology, products and process developments.

Spaces are still available for Southern Manufacturing 2015 which takes place in Farnborough in February. Last year’s event attracted 600 exhibitors and 6500 visitors and proved a success for those Fife companies that attended. Companies participating on the Fife stand received over 60 enquiries between them with potential orders worth over £1 million, while other Fife companies visiting the shows were able to use the stand to explore the show and seek opportunities.

Fife Council Economic Development organises group stands at major national

and international events and provides a range of support services from advice and information to customised training.

Upcoming events include: MARCH 2015 Eco Build 2015, Excel, London MAY 2015 All Energy 2015, SECC, Glasgow SEPTEMBER 2015 Offshore Europe 2015, AECC, Aberdeen To attend one of these events or for more information on MDP, please contact Alan McKay: alan.mckay@fife.gov.uk; 03451 55 55 55 ext 492180.

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news in brief

/ THE ADAMSON SCOOPS RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR AWARD The Adamson Restaurant in St Andrews is celebrating having scooped a Restaurant of the Year award, in which customers cast their vote to nominate their favourite eateries. The Restaurant of the Year Awards were staged in 2014 for the very first time by the Food Awards Scotland in association with Dynamite Energy.

Congratulations!

/ OPTOS SHORTLISTED FOR WORLD CLASS MANUFACTURING AWARD Optos plc has been shortlisted in the World Class Manufacturing category at the UK Manufacturer of the Year Awards 2014. At the time of going to print, the Dunfermline-based retinal imaging firm had undertaken an assessment for the Awards and is waiting to hear if it has been successful. Good luck!

/ A LEISURE ESTATE THAT IS A REAL FAMILY AFFAIR The Wallace family, owners of Pettycur Bay Leisure Complex and The Bay Hotel at Kinghorn in Fife, is celebrating 30 years of ownership, which now sees three generations of the family involved in the business. Tommy Wallace bought the Pettycur estate jointly with his father and brother Alan in 1984 adding The Bay Hotel in 2008.

/ FIFE TIMBER FIRM REPORTS EXCELLENT YEAR Fife timber specialist James Donaldson & Son has reported an upturn in profits. The Markinch-based firm has grown to become one of the UK’s leading independent processors, manufacturers and distributors of timber and engineered timber products, achieving an 11.2 per cent rise in turnover to £117.1 million in the year to 31 March 2014.

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For more news in brief see P23

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New 10 year strategy launched to continue tourism growth A NEW strategy to boost tourism in Fife has been launched with the aim to increase visitor expenditure to £416m per annum by 2024 – an increase of over 20 per cent.

There is also a target to create 900 new jobs over the same period.

The strategy was launched by Cllr Lesley Laird, Depute Leader and Executive Spokesperson for Economy and Planning and Alistair Bruce, the new chair of the Fife Tourism Partnership.

Speaking at the launch Cllr Laird said: “We have an excellent tourism proposition here in Fife. We have a number of award winning businesses, we are looking forward to hosting The Open in St Andrews next summer and Fife has been named best outdoor destination for seven years running. But tourism is a competitive market and we know that

there is more we can do to ensure we retain our place in visitors’ minds.”

Alistair Bruce, general manager of Keavil House and newly elected chair of the Fife Tourism Partnership said: “A key driver in the strategy is to develop year round visitor appeal. Outdoor tourism and activity based trips are growing in popularity so the Fife Tourism Partnership has been working with businesses to develop Outdoor Fife. The Cruise Forth initiative to showcase Fife to cruise ship passengers is developing very successfully and we should capitialise on new opportunities such as the Forth Bridge UNESCO Heritage Bid and linkages to cities like Edinburgh and Dundee.”

The strategy identified the need for tourism businesses to be more collaborative and share ideas and promotional opportunities, especially through the local network groups of the Fife Tourism Partnership, the Local Tourist Associations. Through these local groups there will be chances to develop business ideas such as historical links with the midFife Footsteps of the Kings plan.

Ann Camus, Fife Tourism Partnership manager; Cllr Lesley Laird; Alastair Bruce, chair of Fife Tourism Partnership; and Sandra Montador-Stewart, Fife Council launch the FTP strategy.

Businesses urged to plan ahead for rise in golf visitors ENSURING strong business results for St Andrews and Fife from next year’s Open Championship is the key focus for the Fife Golf Partnership and Fife Tourism Partnership. The message to businesses is “plan ahead.”

Chair of the Fife Golf Partnership, Stephen Owen explained: “We know that golf fans will come to The Open because it’s being held in the home of golf, and we want to ensure these visitors know what else St Andrews and the rest of Fife has to offer.

“Promotion started at The Open in Hoylake earlier this year and will be continuing right up to July next year. The success of the campaign will depend largely on businesses becoming involved and telling us what they have to offer visitors.”

There are a number of ways to get involved or to become a member of Fife Golf Partnership or Fife Tourism Partnership. To find out more contact Liam Barn: liam@visitfifegolf.com or sign up to the Fife Tourism Partnership: www.fifetourismpartnership.org

The Courier Business Awards announces 2014 winners Retail Business of the Year winner was Jannettas Gelateria.

Blown Away was presented with the Tourism, Leisure & Hospitality Business of the Year award.

Cairnie Fruit Farm & Mega Maze scooped the Agricultural Business of the Year award.

Pictures courtesy of The Courier.

THE second annual Courier Business Awards, in association with Henderson Loggie, took place in November, crowning 12 business winners from Fife, Dundee, Perthshire, Angus and The Mearns.

The awards welcomed over 500 business men and women to the Fairmont St Andrews, to celebrate the best in local business.

Amongst them, there were three Fife winners.

St Andrews-based Jannettas Gelateria won the Retail Business of the Year title adding to its collection of awards, having recently been named the nation’s favourite ice cream parlour. The family business, which is in its fourth generation, produces over 100 flavours of gelato, sorbet and frozen yoghurt.

Picking up its second award in as many weeks, outdoor experience company, Blown Away was presented with the Tourism, Leisure and Hospitality Business of the Year award. Guy and Jamie McKenzie, the business owners, recently scooped the Best Outdoor/Adventure Experience Award at the Central South East regional final of the Scottish Thistle Awards and a place in the national final.

Cairnie Fruit Farm and Mega Maze also picked up a top honour winning the Agricultural Business of the Year award. The family run business in Cupar is a popular landmark situated on 120 acres, 45 of which produce top quality fruit for Pick Your Own as well as the supermarket soft fruit industry.

The Courier Editor, Richard Neville said: “The response from local businesses to The Courier Business Awards has been phenomenal and the atmosphere at the awards was second to none.

“We introduced the awards last year and they’ve gone from strength to strength. It’s a great way to celebrate the very best in local business. The competition was tough with very strong entries. Congratulations to all the winners and to all those who were shortlisted. I’m already looking forward to next year’s event.”

The 2014 judging panel featured Chief Executive Officer and Chief Investment Officer at Alliance Trust, Katherine GarrettCox CBE; Richard Neville, Editor of The Courier; David Smith, Managing Partner at Henderson Loggie; Managing Director of Lloyds Banking Group, Lady Susan Rice CBE; Philip Long, Director at V&A Dundee and Director at Diageo in Scotland; and Chairman of Gleneagles Hotels Ltd Peter Lederer CBE FIH MI.

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Score Europe’s Fife team.

Score Europe unveils growth plans

SCORE Europe, a world leader in the supply, service and repair of valves, gas turbines and related components for the oil, gas and energy markets recently unveiled an extensive upgrade of its specialist valve test facility in Cowdenbeath as part of a new phase of business growth.

The facility was first established in Fife in 1984 and now employs over 50 staff, 26 of whom are modern apprentices.

The investment at Cowdenbeath follows a new logistics and distribution centre in Glenrothes last year.

Ian Farrow, General Manager at Score Europe said: “Our specialist test facility at Cowdenbeath is one of the most advanced of its kind in the

Sainsbury’s Bank acquires new contact centre in Fife SAINSBURY’S Bank customer services colleagues will move into a new contact centre in Fife from Summer 2015.

Following the purchase by J Sainsbury plc of Lloyds Banking Group’s (LBG) 50 per cent share of Sainsbury’s Bank earlier this year, 270 LBG contact centre colleagues will transfer across to Sainsbury’s Bank.

When they transfer, they will move from their current locations in nearby Pitreavie and Rosyth.

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The new 21,000 sq ft customer contact centre, Caledonia House, is located on Innova Campus, Rosyth.

Peter Griffiths, Sainsbury’s Bank Chief Executive, said: “These are exciting times for the Bank and this announcement underlines our longterm commitment to our customer services colleagues, operation and customers.”

UK. As well as increasing our capabilities and allowing us to strategically position ourselves to meet the future needs and requirements of the industry, the new upgrades will also provide our customers with increased flexibility and reduced costs.

“We also continue to grow and develop our own skilled personnel to meet the challenges ahead and aim to employ a further five engineering apprentices this year in addition to strengthening our compliment of engineering, quality and administration staff.”

Fife Council and the Invest in Fife team will continue to work with the company to help achieve its growth ambitions.

Invest In Fife Testimonials WATCH Invest in Fife’s latest suite of testimonials from industry leading organisations – Diageo, Oceaneering, Carr’s Milling, BVG Associates, Kingsbarns Distillery and the University of St Andrews – talking about why Fife is one of Scotland’s most vibrant business locations. With established quay-side infrastructure and quality office and industrial space, top education establishments, well-developed transport and digital communication infrastructures and access to financial assistance – Fife has a huge amount to offer businesses of all sizes. Watch the videos at www.investinfife.co.uk.

Celebrating business success at annual dinner Two year focus for Fife Chamber FIFE Chamber of Commerce has recently completed work on its Operating Plan which sets out the strategic direction for the work of the Chamber over the next two years.

It encompasses the key policy priorities for the Chamber, taking into account the Fife Economic Strategy and the main policy priorities of the British and Scottish Chambers of Commerce.

One of the key roles of the Chamber is to make representations on the main issues facing businesses in Fife and to contribute to measures to address these.

THE Fife Chamber of Commerce annual dinner recently took place in St Andrews, with over 230 guests representing businesses from all parts of Fife.

Attending the event at the Fairmont St Andrews, guests joined the Chamber to celebrate an exciting year for Fife business and to support this year’s two chosen beneficiary charities, Alzheimer Scotland and Capability Scotland. Members and their guests raised over £3700 for the charities.

Retired criminal lawyer, and a long-serving friend of Fife Chamber, Bill Copeland took up the role of Master of Ceremonies, introducing the evening’s keynote speaker, Justin Urquhart-Stewart, founding partner of 7 Investment Management.

Regarded as one of the country’s most trusted financial commentators in the media, Mr Urquhart-Stewart addressed dinner guests in a thoroughly entertaining speech, providing his perspective on opportunities for business growth and development on his key theme – business confidence.

This year also saw Robert Purvis of the Purvis Group scoop the Alan Russell Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Fife Economy. This is the second year the annual award has been presented having been introduced in 2013 in commemoration of the late Fife Chamber Chief Executive.

After-dinner entertainment was provided

by Eric Davidson with his ukulele in hand, delighting guests with poetry and comedy.

Over the next two years and beyond the Chamber will be focussing on: • Improving Business/Education links – building on excellent local examples of business involvement with schools and the college to develop a consistent, Fifewide approach to benefit businesses and students; • Improving Connectivity – better road, rail and air services but particularly focussing on its digital infrastructure and assistance to business to maximise benefits of high speed broadband;

Keynote speaker, Justin Urquhart-Stewart, founding partner of 7 Investment Management (right), with John Silcock, Fife Chamber President.

• Developing International Trade – working with local and national agencies, including Scottish and British Chambers of Commerce, to work towards a comprehensive range of services to existing and potential exporters; • Better Business Environment – recognising that some positive steps have been taken, we need to ensure that public organisations are essentially pro-business in terms of procurement, planning, development and regulations. www.fifechamber.co.uk

John Silcock, Fife Chamber President (left) presents Robert Purvis of the Purvis Group with the Alan Russell Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Fife Economy.

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Businesses fast track growth through BGF’s High Value Start Up Service

A GROWING number of new businesses in Fife are benefiting from Business Gateway Fife’s (BGF) High Value Start Up Service to fast-track their growth potential.

In the financial year 2013/14, 179 start up businesses in Fife qualified for tailored assistance with 39 businesses supported so far this year.

These businesses, deemed to be High Value, qualify for a support package to fast track their business and to assist with growth potential.

The High Value Start Up Service, which is supported by Fife Council Economic Development through European funding, provides a dedicated advisor to work with the early stage business to understand its unique requirements and tailor the right level of support for every client.

Find out how Business Gateway Fife can help your business by visiting www.businessgatewayfife.com or calling 01592 858333.

Cactus secures sole import rights & distribution for bristle blasting CACTUS Industrial Limited was founded earlier this year offering specialist support and advice on high performance coatings and composites to industry clients.

The business has secured the sole import rights and distribution for an innovative patented surface preparation technology known as ‘bristle blasting’ pioneered by Monti GmbH, Hennef, Germany. This technology prepares small areas of corrosion and/or damaged coatings to high standards of cleanliness and roughness to ensure the newly applied coating achieves excellent long term adhesion.

Today the two partners Jamie Gallagher and Gordon Cairns focus on offering training and support to all operators of the technology.

Jamie said: “The training and coaching of the operators is vital to ensure they achieve the high standards of surface preparation needed for modern high performance coatings.”

Gordon explained: “On small areas the ‘bristle blasting’ offers significant benefits over the more traditional methods of preparation such as open grit blasting and needle gunning.

“We have seen significant reduction in preparation time and clean-up costs and the unique design of the tool means it can be used up to six hours due to the low levels of vibration.”

Cactus is operating with companies in oil and gas, refining and petrochemical, power stations and transport where this technology offers environmental benefits including noise reduction, reduced air borne dust and debris, reduced waste and energy.

Cactus has been working with Business Gateway Fife since early 2014 and has successfully utilised funding from the Fife Investment Fund to assist with marketing the business. An introduction to Business Mentoring Scotland through Fife Chamber of Commerce has also been beneficial at this stage of the company’s development.

Gordon said: “Business Gateway Fife’s help has been a great boost. Thanks to them we will be exhibiting next year at Fife Council Economic Development’s stand at Offshore Europe.”

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Gordon Cairns and Jamie Gallagher of Cactus Industrial Ltd.

Success is sewn up for Clare O’Neill Textiles

Clare O’Neill with some of her colourful Harris Tweed collection.

BUSINESS Gateway Fife has been on hand to support Clare O’Neill as she grows her fledging textile business, which is already supplying its products to over 30 retailers in some of Scotland’s most popular tourism destinations, including Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.

Clare O’Neill Textiles produces bags, accessories, home wares and children’s clothes, using iconic Harris Tweed fabric.

Clare said: “My Business Gateway Fife Adviser, Sam Greer, has been a fantastic support. She has helped me access Fife Council’s Expert Help Programme, which provided specialist consultancy advice on my business’s finances, plus she helped me identify other sources of funding available.

“Starting my own business is the best thing that I could have done and I’m really excited to see what the future holds.

“The plans for the business are primarily focused on growing our customer base within Scotland and the rest of the UK, and then working towards breaking into the export market over the next couple of years. We expect to take on permanent members of staff during next year and will be looking to build a team of home workers too.”

For more information on Clare O’Neill Textiles please visit: www.clareoneilltextiles.co.uk or for further details on the Expert Help Programme, call Business Gateway Fife on 01592 858333.

Create in Fife Fund helps launch talented portrait painter A TALENTED Fife-based artist is on his way to achieving his goal of becoming a full-time professional portrait painter with assistance from Fife Council’s Create in Fife Fund.

Max Scotto, who has painted all his life with a passion for traditional oil portraiture, launched his own business in August 2013. He has received acclaim for his portrait of The Laird of Balgonie, which is on display at Balgonie Castle.

When making the decision to set up his own business, Max was keen to “run it in a professional way and do it correctly.” He made contact with Business Gateway Fife where he received assistance in honing his business skills and setting up a new business. Max also discovered he was eligible for funding through the Create in Fife Fund, which has assisted with the purchase of equipment and development of a website.

Max said: “Receiving funding assistance as well as advice from Business Gateway Fife has been a great help. I know where I want to go, but without this help it would have been more difficult and taken me longer to get to where I am now.”

As an emerging artist, many of Max’s commissions come through word of mouth recommendations. He is a fourth generation artist from a talented artistic family and loves engaging with those he paints. He says that his job is “to create a convincing and tasteful analogy between the painting and the sitter’s own soul.”

For more information about Max and his work, his website is: www.maxscotto.com.

The Create in Fife Fund provides financial support to creative businesses in Fife. The fund, managed and administered by Business Gateway Fife on behalf of Fife Council Economic Development, offers a 50 per cent contribution up to £1000. To find out more visit www.businessgatewayfife.com or call 01592 858333.

Max Scotto with the Laird of Balgonie at the unveiling of his portrait of the Laird.

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New initiative launches to encourage engineering PRIMARY pupils from Bell Baxter High School cluster in Cupar and the Inverkeithing High School cluster are the first in Fife to experience a new pilot aimed at encouraging engineering from an early age.

The initiative which launched at the end of November was introduced by Fife Council’s Economic Development Culture of Enterprise Framework in partnership with Primary Engineer and brings together teachers and industry engineers to engage primary school pupils (primary one to seven) with engineering through curriculum-mapped projects.

The aim is to inspire children through a range of interactive experiments as the context for learning about science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM), whilst highlighting future career opportunities.

The programme also supports teacher development which demonstrates practically how science and maths applied to design technology problems can engage and enthuse young people, especially when the framework of learning is linked to industry.

Local companies including Babcock, Smith Anderson, FMC and Fife Fabrications are supporting the programme and will have the opportunity to get involved in a variety of ways. Their engineers can join the teachers at training to highlight the business context; or be interviewed by young people about their role; or indeed support the running of some of the classroom sessions.

If you’re a business that would like to support the programme, please get in touch with Sandra Robb, Fife Council Economic Development (sandra.robb@fife.gov.uk).

The programme is supported by Education Scotland and is extensively mapped to the Curriculum for Excellence and aligned to Fife’s STEM Strategy.

Your Future’s Unlimited to create school champions

Your Future’s Unlimited banner.

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BIG changes are underway for Your Future’s Unlimited, an enterprise and employability initiative aimed at promoting the range of career options and training programmes available to school pupils and leavers.

Going forward, every school will have a young ‘champion’ – someone to support their classmates, younger pupils, parents and carers to find the right information to allow young people to make an informed decision about their future. This will be supported by exhibition banners and brochures which can be displayed at relevant events within the school and across career fairs in Fife.

The opportunity for a senior phase pupil will be significant, helping their personal skills – confidence, learning, communication – as they offer information on opportunities for young people including modern apprentices to self-employment and training opportunities including college and university.

Pamela Stevenson of Fife Council‘s Economic Development Team, said: “Your Future’s Unlimited has been an incredibly valuable way of engaging with young people seeking information on future courses and careers. The aim now is to make such advice more readily available by appointing champions in each school, who can offer a range of information on opportunities for young people whether it be voluntary service opportunities, further education, apprenticeships or entrepreneurial ambitions.”

For more information, please visit: www.opportunitiesfife.org

Enterprise Apprentices start work FIFE’S first formal Enterprise Apprenticeship Programme has got off to a flying start, with all of its 19 placements filled.

The programme is a first for Scotland. It will see 19 apprentices work towards a NVQ Level 3 in Enterprise Skills whilst employed in a Fife business, where they will have the opportunity to work on a range of business projects.

K2 Marketing has taken on an Enterprise Apprentice, Stephanie Simpson. Managing Director, Sean Kennedy, said: “This is a superb programme recognising the importance that young people play in the local economy. Our apprentice has been a fantastic addition to our team and through this project has the opportunity to develop her enterprise skills while getting an insight into the business community.”

The project, being delivered as part of Fife Council’s Culture of Enterprise Framework, in partnership with Career Studio (Scotland) Ltd, saw its first apprentice, Connor Francis, recently join Havelock Europa plc. At the time Connor said: “It’s been a great experience for me to join Havelock and get the chance to start my career in such a high profile business. I’ve already been able to use my skills and learn new ones too. It’s a brilliant opportunity.”

Connor was quickly followed by other young business stars of the future who took up positions at: Tree of Knowledge; Kingdom Credit Union; Charter Education Scotland; Ore Valley Housing Association; Business Gateway Fife; KK St Andrews; K2 Marketing; Fife Council Economic Development; Fife Cultural Trust and Florizel Media.

Enterprise Apprentice Stephanie Simpson is gaining experience at K2 Marketing.

Speaking about the programme, Cllr Lesley Laird, Depute Leader and Executive Spokesperson for Economy and Planning, said: “Fife Council is working to put Fife at the forefront of enterprise and employability and this project is an example of how we’re leading the way.

“Good luck to all the new recruits, I am looking forward to hear more about the work all of the talented apprentices will bring to the companies and Fife as part of this exciting first for Scotland.”

Former apprentice shortlisted for national award ONE of the original apprentices from the pilot Apprentice in Enterprise programme, which was the first such initiative in Scotland, was nominated for the Institute of Enterprise and Entrepreneurs (IOEE) Enterprising Learner of the Year Award 2014.

Shannen Scott, who now works for the Career Studio, attended the awards ceremony at the House of Lords in October, along with key figures from the small business, enterprise and skills sector in the UK. Shannen spoke to FBM after the event. She said: “It was a great honour to be nominated for the award. While I didn’t win, to have the opportunity to visit the House of Lords and meet with representatives from the business community is an experience I will never forget.”

Shannen Scott was nominated for a IOEE Enterprising Learner of the Year Award.

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Over 400 pupils step up to the Enterprise & Manufacturing Challenge

Young people during the Enterprise and Manufacturing Challenge.

FOUR hundred and thirty four young people from 62 primary school teams across Fife have taken part in a one day workshop created by Fife Council Economic Development’s Culture of Enterprise Framework in partnership with Scottish Manufacturing Advisory Service (SMAS) and Tree of Knowledge.

The challenge sees young people work in teams to learn about the importance of teamwork, communication, quality and listening to customers and the impact that has on business.

The young people faced a ‘Dragons Den’ panel to pitch their company for funding before moving into the production of their product, using stickle bricks.

A number of Fife businesses including Optos plc, FMC Technologies, EDV, Lloyds Banking Group, Fife Fabrications and Activate, supported the project, being on hand at the workshops to bring a business context to what they are doing.

Pauline Braisby of CR Smith, another of the local companies to take part, said: “We were delighted to lend our support to the Challenge. It is a fun and engaging way to build young people’s confidence in thinking and speaking about business.”

The Scottish Manufacturing Advisory Service (SMAS) was also involved in the initiative. Nick Shields, Director of SMAS, said: “Manufacturing is a great career choice and offers opportunities for well-paid jobs. Many companies in the manufacturing sector make products that help improve how we use our planet’s resources, 20

for example wind turbines and solar panels. Most of Scotland’s exports come from the manufacturing sector, so it is important that these companies are successful and continue to contribute to Scotland’s wealth.”

The workshop activities were based on the Lean Manufacturing methodology and aimed to show how continuous improvement, clear communication and teamwork help to create a more efficient and effective way to work for everyone.

An additional element was created this year for the young people who attended to take back to their classmates. Their challenge was to facilitate a similar activity to their classmates with the help of their teachers. The school showing greatest teamwork, communication and improvement will be selected and showcased in the next issue of FBM. Pamela Stevenson, Lead Officer at Fife Council Economic Development, said: “Fife’s manufacturing sector continues to make a huge contribution to the local economy providing around 15,000 jobs.

“Recent Scottish Government figures show Fife to be one of the top three local authorities contributing to Scottish manufacturing total. It is clear Fife has a lot to offer the manufacturing sector.

“Initiatives like this are important in encouraging the future generation, in a fun and hands on way, to consider manufacturing as a possible career route.

“Thanks to all of the companies who supported the event and mentored our young people.”

Fife Business Week sees launch of Tycoon Teens

Tycoon Teens Inspiring Fife

FIFE Business Week, which took place between 10-14 November, saw the launch of a new initiative aimed at supporting the next young tycoon from Fife.

Aimed at encouraging senior phase pupils in secondary schools across Fife to develop a small idea into a viable opportunity that can be progressed. Tycoon Teens, supported by the Fife Economy Partnership and Entrepreneurial Scotland, is being run by Fife Council Economic Development under the Culture of Enterprise Framework.

The Tycoon Teens initiative has been launched across all Fife secondary schools, where young people and their ideas will be supported by a range of Fife entrepreneurs.

Applications will be shortlisted with an open session ‘Dragons Den’ event being held in January 2015.

Richard Dixon, Entrepreneurial Champion for Fife Economy Partnership, said: “Tycoon Teens is an exciting opportunity to identify and develop the ideas of our young people who play an important role in the local economy. Having launched just recently, I look forward to hearing about the opportunities uncovered and how our local entrepreneurs can help to support our young people.”

Career Studio first in Fife to achieve IIYP award CAREER Studio, Fife Council’s delivery partners on the Apprenticeship in Enterprise programme, has been awarded Fife’s first Investors in Young People’s (IIYP) Award.

Career Studio has partnered Fife Council’s Culture of Enterprise Framework on the Enterprise Apprenticeship Scheme which currently has 19 young people taking part at companies across Fife.

Ronnie Davidson, Career Studio director, said: “Young people are vital to the success of our business.

Their personal and professional development has underpinned our advancement.

“Investing the business’ time and resources in young people has been a rewarding experience and brings fresh challenges and new opportunities every day.”

Career Studio and Character Scotland receive IIYP award.

Career Studio’s charitable arm, Character Scotland, an initiative aimed at supporting the cultivation of character and values in Scotland, with particular focus on children and young people, also received the accreditation which is a result of a new initiative from Investors in People Scotland which has been supported by £1 million funding from the Scottish Government.

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Spotlight on Town Centres

Every Last Detail thrives since winning Business Space Competition THE company crowned winner of the Business Space Competition has been inundated with orders in its first few months of trading, Fife Business Matters can reveal.

Every Last Detail won the competition organised by Fife Council’s Town Centre Development and its Economic Development Team along with the new owners of the Kingdom Shopping Centre in Glenrothes, MARS Pension Trustees Ltd, helping to create a new business in the town.

Every Last Detail won a 12 month test trade period for premises, kitted out by Fife Council’s Building Services department. Every Last Detail is also receiving business support from Business Gateway Fife and John Kerr, who owns Harvey Willis in the centre, offering mentoring support.

Laura Poole launched Every Last Detail in November 2012 and as well as event planning for occasions such as birthdays, baby showers, retirements and wedding receptions, the business also makes locally sourced handmade personalised products.

Laura said: “To win the competition was just incredible, but to be trading as well as I am is a dream come true. Since launching the shop, I’ve

Competition judges and winner with Cllr Lesley Laird. Back row – Cllr Altany Craik; Robert Winter (Centre Manager); John Kerr (Harvey Willis). Front row – Cllr Lesley Laird; Laura Poole of Every Last Detail; and Lynne Baillie of Business Gateway Fife.

been overwhelmed with orders for birthdays, retirement parties and weddings. Most of our gifts can be personalised which we will be carrying into our Christmas section to create those extra special gifts.”

Fife College students helping to get the unit ready. Pictured with Alan Mutter from Dunfermline First who is the lead partner behind Venture Street, and Joe McGuinness, Area Services Manager Dunfemline, Fife Council.

Scotland’s Towns Week Boost to Fife

Venture Street entrepreneurs gear up for Christmas trading THE City of Dunfermline is home to an exciting business competition “Venture Street” aimed at giving the entrepreneurs of tomorrow a chance to test trade today.

This innovative competition makes positive use of vacant units on Bruce Street, Dunfermline, where finalists are trading over the festive period, bringing a different dimension to the city centre.

As well as getting a chance to test out their business idea and gauge market demand, all of the entrepreneurs will compete right up until closing time on 24th December for the top prize.

The winner will be announced in early 2015 and will secure a business support package worth £85,000, including start-up advice, one years’ rent

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free commercial accommodation; 12 months free banking services and accountancy and legal advice from local professionals.

The competition has been driven forward

by Dunfermline First in partnership with Dunfermline Delivers and with support from CCW Business Lawyers; Thomson Cooper Accountants; Linklever Group; DM Hall; Signs Plus; Bank of Scotland; Fife Council; Carnegie Trust; Business Gateway Fife and The Dunfermline Press. It is a fantastic example of how the private, public and third sector can work in partnership on innovative projects to deliver positive change in the city centre. www.venture-street.co.uk

TOWN centres across Fife capitalised on Scotland’s Towns Week which took place from the 17th to 23rd November.

Scotland’s Towns Week is a national campaign organised

by Scotland’s Town Partnership that aims to revitalise the country’s towns.

Throughout the week Fife’s Town Centres and the gems within them from culture, events, businesses and architecture were promoted.

For more information on Fife Council’s Town Centre Development Unit, please contact Hazel Cross: hazel.cross@fife.gov.uk.

news in brief

/ FIFE COMPANIES SCOOP FOOD INDUSTRY AWARDS A number of Fife companies have been recognised for their culinary skills in a range of food industry awards.

Business-led initiative backs young entrepreneurship LEADING businesses across the Kingdom are backing next year’s Fife Student Entrepreneur Award with a prize of £15,000 in cash and support services.

The college or school student who shows the greatest entrepreneurial qualities will receive complimentary legal and accounting services from CCW and Thomson Cooper respectively, business banking from Santander, web design from Internet Creation, insurance services from Kingdom Insurance, IT support from Managed IT Experts and any signage requirements from Sign Plus.

The organiser of the 2015 award is CR Smith, which is providing a £2,500 cash prize and one-to-one business coaching with Chairman, Gerard Eadie CBE.

Mr Eadie said: “It is good to see so many local businesses backing our young people in business. This award seeks to encourage ambition, ideas and business skills in our young people. We have to recognise that these people will be the big employers of the future and support them now.”

The competition is open to 16-24 year olds at school or college in Fife and all finalists will be invited to a day of workshops to learn about business as well as to develop and refine their ideas before the final presentations in February 2015.

The ultimate winner will be judged on both their entrepreneurial qualities and their business idea.

Last year’s winner was Lachlan Edwards who has a music channel on YouTube which he plans to develop as a showcase for new musicians. Entry forms can be requested from Pauline Braisby at Pauline.braisby@crsmith.co.uk.

ESIF offers an alternative route to access funding FIFE companies are benefiting from accessing the East of Scotland Investment Fund. Some 17 companies have received investment totalling £585,000 since the Fund was set up in 2011.

This Fife Council Economic Development led initiative is open to local companies in a bid to help create jobs, develop new market opportunities and boost the local economy.

A snapshot survey of small and medium sized companies by the East of Scotland Investment Fund has shown that despite a more positive view of business performance two-thirds of businesses have not secured bank funding.

Andrew Dickson, Fund Manager of ESIF offers his top tips to ensure companies are “investor-ready” when they apply.

• Take advice – even the most experienced can benefit from a fresh perspective.

• Show that you understand your business; that you know what you’re applying for and why; and inspire confidence that you can make your plan work.

Loans of up to £50,000 with interest rates currently fixed at six per cent and a maximum repayment term of five years are available from ESIF, funded by the European Regional Development Fund. The fund supports the creation of new jobs and new market opportunities for small to medium sized companies and loans can be used towards working capital or the purchase of equipment, plant or business property.

For more information visit: www.eastscotinvest.co.uk or call Business Gateway Fife on: 01592 858333

Dunfermline Indian takeaway, The Curry Pot, has been named ‘Takeaway of the Year’ – Central and Fife Region – at the inaugural Scottish section of the Asian Food Awards and hopes to compete at the national British Curry Awards in December.

Meanwhile, Cupar’s Yvonne Lloyd has scooped the title of ‘Artisan Jam Maker of the Year’ at the World Jam-pionships, held in Arbroath. Craigallan Jams won with its Tutti Frutti jam which Yvonne hopes will be a stepping stone to selling her products in farm shops.

/ FIFE COUNCIL SCOOPS ASPE AWARD Fife Council has been recognised nationally for its service delivery by the Association of Public Service Excellence (APSE) and has been awarded the ‘Overall Council of the Year in Service Delivery’ award.

Fife Council also picked up the ‘Best Efficiency Initiative’ award recognising its policies on mobile and flexible working across the Council, while its ‘Bang Tidy’ campaign, aimed to make high school pupils more aware of their responsibility to bin their rubbish, also contributed to its success.

/ CHEER FOR DIAGEO SCHOLARSHIP Two lucky Fife College students have been given a great boost to their future careers thanks to engineering scholarships awarded by world leading premium drinks business, Diageo. Bryan Neil 33, from Dunfermline and Ian Seaton 17, from Pitlochry both received £1000 to support their studies, at a special presentation at Diageo’s Banbeath Bottling Plant in Leven.

For more news in brief see P25

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Janet Torley, newly elected Chairperson of the Federation of Small Businesses in Fife.

Janet Torley back in the FSB Chair in Fife

THE Fife branch of the Federation of Small Businesses has recently elected Janet Torley as Chairperson.

Janet has held the position previously and is looking forward to the opportunity to put on a series of events for the branch’s members and continue to lobby on behalf of Fife’s small business owners. Janet is based in Fife, near Dunfermline, where she runs her company Events for Business, which just celebrated its 10th anniversary.

Janet said: “The FSB has long been the biggest direct member business organisation in Fife and I intend to work with our committee of local members to maintain that position. Not only do our members benefit from legal advice and tax protection, but we’re committed to delivering great value locally through events and representation.”

Since taking over in October, Janet and her committee have already run an event looking at auto-enrolment pensions and what will be required by small business owners to comply with the new regulations before the June 2015 deadline. A lot of work has gone into organising the first 24

Fife based FSB dinner for many years. It is planned for February and more details on how to book can be found on the events calendar at: www.fsb.org.uk/scotland.

Ahead of the May 2015 General Election, the Fife branch will be giving

members the chance to put their questions to all of the candidates for the Fife constituencies at local hustings events and pushing the elected MPs to support the FSB’s #ibacksmallbusiness campaign. The FSB has spent months consulting with its members throughout the UK on its general election manifesto and is proud of the fact that that its election policy requests, such as action on late payments, come straight from member feedback.

Later on in 2015 The Open Championship returns to St Andrews and will again be a big opportunity for Fife’s businesses to benefit from the huge influx of golf fans visiting for the week. The FSB in Fife will be playing its part to ensure that local small business owners are best placed to make the most of the opportunities these visitors bring.

If you are self employed or run a small business in Fife and would like to know more about the many benefits of FSB membership (such as legal & tax protection, pensions advice, telecoms, and free business banking) visit: www.fsb.org.uk/join or call 0808 1688196.

FIFE Council is calling on the business community to help Fifers find their way into work, having announced an extra £2 million investment to extend the Fife Youth Job Contract (FYJC).

Cllr Lesley Laird, Depute Leader and Executive Spokesperson for Economy and Planning, said: “Projects like the Fife Youth Job Contract (FYJC) have helped Fifers aged 16 – 24 find employment. Now we are aiming to match schools and local businesses. It’s through initiatives like this that have helped put Fife at the forefront of employability.

“A range of successful measures which have already produced results will be used.”

Initiatives like pre-recruitment training and skills building for those looking for work, to wage subsidies for employers will be used.

Cllr Laird continued: “It’s also the strong partnership and the links with Fife’s employers that will help us deliver. I am delighted to see so many employers wanting to get involved and would encourage all Fife employers, large or small, to get in touch and join this initiative.”

A number of local companies have already signed up to help and found there are benefits to the business from being involved.

Living Solutions, a small social enterprise based in Cowdenbeath recruited four Modern Apprenticeship posts in Trees and Timber level 2.

news in brief

£2m investment to extend Fife Youth Job Contract

Wage funding and training for such jobs and apprenticeships has been secured through the FYJC in partnership with Skills Development Scotland and Kingdom Housing Association People and Communities Fund.

Living Solutions has also secured £42,000 from the Henry Smith Charity for new machines to extract timber.

This new investment will allow Living Solutions to offer a fuller forestry service.

Also offering young people the opportunity of a bright future is Burntisland Fabrications Ltd (BiFab). 48 local young people have joined the Fife Youth Job Contract Engineering Academy where they will undertake Employability Skills Training before starting full Apprenticeships in Fabrication.

During the past five years, the company has recruited 72 apprentices who are in various stages of their training. Working in partnership with Opportunities Fife the new candidates aim to follow the same path and gain the same skill set.

The company has recently secured major projects for the oil and gas sector from Premier Oil and GDF Suez at an estimated value in excess of £200 million with final delivery in April 2015.

Businesses who want to get involved can call 0844 855 2280 or email info@opportunitiesfife.org.

/ LOCAL BUSINESSWOMAN RECOGNISED AT SCOTTISH AWARDS Ruth Smyth, Director of Paramount Care Agency, based in Kirkcaldy, was honoured by the Association of Scottish Businesswomen Awards, scooping the honour of ‘Professional of the Year 2014’. Paramount Care was also finalist in the ASB’s category for Business of the Year.

/ INSOLVENCY SUPPORT SERVICES SCOOPS TOP PRIZE Glenrothes-based firm, Insolvency Support Services Limited (ISS), has been awarded the title “Insolvency Team of the Year” at the prestigious UK Insolvency & Rescue Awards 2014. Short listed as a finalist with six other firms, including two ‘Big four’ global accountancy practices, the ISS team learned of their success at the London awards ceremony on 1 October 2014.

/ ARCHITECT FIRM SHORTLISTED FOR SELF-BUILD AWARDS Dunfermline architecture firm was shortlisted for two industry awards. Allan Corfield Architects (ACA) which specialises in one-off house builds was shortlisted in the UK’s Best Self-Build Architect and in the Best Eco Home category at the Built It Awards 2014.

/ NATIONWIDE JOBS BOOST FOR DUNFERMLINE Nationwide has announced its creating an extra 30 new jobs in Dunfermline following the success of its video link mortgage service.

The roles include mortgage consultants and personal banking managers to be based at Caledonian House, with further jobs being created over the next year.

Robin Nicol and Jim Riddell of BiFab; Lucinda McAlister, Service Manager, Fife Council; John McFarlane, Sector Lead, Fife Council; with apprentices Liam Herd and Connor Polhill.

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For more news in brief see P32

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SDP’s Meet the Buyer event hailed as huge success OVER 250 businesses took the chance to learn about doing business with Fife Council and other public sector agencies recently.

Another successful Meet the Buyer event was held at Carnegie Conference Centre as part of Fife Business Week, organised by Fife Council Economic Development’s Supplier Development Programme.

The event gave Fife Council suppliers and potential suppliers a chance to meet Fife Council’s new Procurement Category managers.

Businesses got the opportunity to talk about doing business with the Council and to discuss the goods or services their business offers.

Representatives from the construction industry, many of whom are engaged in the construction of the new schools as part of Building Fife’s Future programme, were at the event as well as representatives from Ministry of Defence Procurement Division, Scotland Excel and many more.

Cllr Lesley Laird, Depute Leader and Executive Spokesperson for Economy and Planning, said: “We’re working together with local companies in a range of ways to help make Fife the best place to do business.

“Part of that work is to give appropriate support and advice to ensure Fife companies have the tools and skills they need to compete for important contracts.

New and Improved Supplier Development Programme launched THE Supplier Development Programme (SDP) held a relaunch event on 14th November. The event was a culmination of the transformation process and an opportunity to showcase the new and improved SDP programme.

“Events like this are a great example of how the Council is helping small and medium sized business become aware of the opportunities that could exist for them from the public sector and are ready to seize any opportunity that comes their way.

“Helping local businesses also helps us meet the aim set out in the Fife Economic Strategy to grow the local economy.”

As well as hearing about successes so far and how SDP members are winning more contracts, delegates discussed how the programme is responding to new supplier demands through a new digital platform.

A £360,000 funding boost to the Supplier Development Programme in Scotland will help businesses of all sizes, across all sectors, develop their digital capability and be more efficient in bidding and fulfilling public contracts. A series of events, training opportunities and a new SDP website will support this.

To register for the Supplier Development Programme to open up new opportunities for business, log onto www.sdpscotland.co.uk/fife or email Kieran Hunter at Fife Council’s Economic Development Team: kieran.hunter@fife.gov.uk.

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Green Business Fife goes out and about GREEN Business Fife (GBF) attended the Scottish Pilgrim Gathering held at the Vine Centre, Dunfermline in early October. The conference ‘Communicating with Nature – Environmental Perspective on Pilgrimage’ brought together a range of organisations interested in the development of pilgrim travel and faith tourism in Scotland. Green Business Fife Chair, Geoff Robotham, attended and networked with delegates offering ideas and advice on how GBF can help support and promote their work.

Geoff Robotham, Chair of Green Business Fife at the Scottish Pilgrim Gathering.

Creating Connections GREEN Business Fife in conjunction with Bright Green Business, hosted a speed networking business breakfast which attracted representatives from 25 organisations, including energy assessors, local schools, manufacturers and community groups, to discuss green innovation.

The session included a presentation from Jason Morenikeji from The Urban Farming Company who spoke about his latest project, The Loop MicroFarm Greenhouse, which incorporates a range of green technologies including aerobic heat exchange and aquaculture, demonstrating the outstanding innovation taking place in Fife. www.brightgreenbusiness.org.uk; www.urbanfarmingco.com

Take Your Energy Savings to the Next Level A SEMINAR offering an insight into using energy more efficiently through the development of an energy management system was hosted by Green Business Fife. Representatives from NQA and Mabbett & Associates presented the ‘ISO 50001 – Energy Management’ session which featured case studies from Costa and Northern Rail showcasing the significant savings achieved by incorporating ISO 50001 across all areas of the businesses.

Join GBF today and get involved!

MEMBERSHIP of GBF is growing every month and it now has over 290 organisations involved in the network. Remember, becoming a member is free and includes a listing in the GBF online directory. Join today at: www.greenbusinessfife.co.uk/ register.

For updates on all our events, news and much more, visit and “Like” GBF’s new Facebook page (www.facebook.com/ GreenBusinessFife) and follow it on Twitter (www.twitter.com/GreenFife).

If your organisation has an event, news story or achievement it would like to share with GBF’s members, please email: yvonne@ greenbusinessfife.co.uk.

BRE Innovation Park GREEN Business Fife’s members enjoyed a visit to the BRE Innovation Park, the former site of the Ravenscraig steel works, and now a showcase of the future of sustainable building. Delegates enjoyed a tour of the visitor centre and the individual plots within the park including the Applegreen House and the Resource Efficient House which has been designed to meet the forthcoming 2016 building regulations. www.bre.co.uk

GBF members at BRE - John Reid (BRE); Graham Drummond (Passivhaus Associates); Steff Bell (Future Komfort); Anne Marsden (SEPA); Andrew McDaniel (Kingdom Housing Association); and Dennis Amor (Site Sealants).

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Overwhelming response to ECO Stars ahead of its launch FIFE Council has launched ECO Stars, a free scheme to encourage fleet operators – of all sizes – to improve efficiency, reduce fuel consumption and emissions in a bid to improve local transport related air quality.

The launch, which took place at Kirkcaldy’s Town House in October, brought together a number of the scheme’s inaugural members – companies including Fisher Services, Kettle Produce, Asda, Sainsbury’s and Tesco – which represent 2309 vehicles.

Cllr Pat Callaghan, Fife Council Executive Spokesperson for Environment and Transportation, said: “We’re working very hard with our partners to improve Fife’s air quality.

“Signing up to ECO Stars provides tools and support to fleet operators, helping reduce their costs and environmental impact.

“Taking part in the scheme also helps the Council on its way to reducing its carbon emissions by 42 per cent before 2020.

“It’s great to see so many local fleet operators committed to improving the efficiency of their fleet and environmental impact.

“I am positive ECO Stars will continue to grow in Fife and many more local fleet operators will see the benefits of joining.”

Members joining have their vehicles and overall fleet rated by industry experts to assess their current performance – both operational and environmental – and achieve an ECO Stars rating between one and five with bespoke guidance offered to help improve the efficiency of their fleet.

The scheme is managed by Transport & Travel Research Ltd on behalf of Fife Council. For more information, please visit: www.fifedirect.org.uk/ecostars.

Inaugural scheme members pictured alongside Cllr Pat Callaghan and Fife Council, industry and other organisation representatives at the launch of ECO Stars at Kirkcaldy’s Town House.

Double Celebration for D&G Autocare D&G Autocare, the Fife based garage group, has double cause for celebration with the anniversary of its tenth year in business and having won the accolade of Motor Codes Scotland Garage of the Year in 2013/14 for its Pitreavie garage in Dunfermline.

David Hunter and George Simpson, founders of D&G Autocare.

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Establishing its first garage in Rumblingwell, Dunfermline in 2004, D&G Autocare now has thirteen outlets across Scotland. Founders, George Simpson and David Hunter, brought 25 years of experience in the autocare industry and have grown the business steadily over the past decade despite the challenges of the recession.

George Simpson said: “We have pretty much only known recessionary times and have had to trade in difficult economic conditions. However, we see this as a plus point as it has made us really focused. In a recession what your brand stands for is very important, as is looking after both your staff and your customers.”

D&G operates a staff apprenticeship scheme. It currently has eight apprentices across the firm and prioritises staff retention so that customers have continuity of care.

George and David see potential for growth in a number of locations across Scotland and recently opened a new garage in Kirkcaldy where its headquarters are located.

For further information see: www.dandgautocare.co.uk

FBM Meets Martin Hanchard, CEO, Brand-Rex

Martin J Hanchard, CEO of Brand-Rex.

FBM met with Martin Hanchard, Chief Executive Officer of Brand-Rex, to hear more about the company’s investment and development plans as it strives to stay one step ahead in a highly dynamic, challenging and competitive market.

Martin assumed the reins at Brand-Rex in January 2013 having worked for Pirelli/Prysmian Cables & Systems in the UK, Italy and the United States for over 20 years, and has steadily been revitalising the business recording positive revenue growth over the period. The company has a clear vision, strategy and road map in place to engage its 334-strong workforce.

As one of the original innovators of structured cabling for application in data networks, Brand-Rex has experienced multiple ownership changes over the last decade, eventually being acquired five years ago by Edinburgh-based Murray Capital Holdings.

Based in Glenrothes, Brand-Rex operates in some of the most dynamic international markets in the world, as technology and applications drive demand for improved capabilities, network speeds and higher bandwidth requirements.

In January 2015, Brand-Rex will launch its new Research & Development and testing laboratory and a new customer experience portal, which follows significant investment of over £300,000.

Martin said: “Technology is evolving all the time. To stay ahead of the game, we must push the boundaries of technology, assuring that we meet the needs of our customers now and in the foreseeable future. Our customer experience portal, will allow us to showcase our solutions in a customer’s environment. This coupled with our R&D facility and our European, Glenrothes based manufacturing facility, positions us strongly for the future.”

Brand-Rex has been collaborating with Scottish Enterprise for funding to support R&D projects.

Martin added: “Being based in Fife is important to our growth. It provides Brand-Rex with access to a well-educated, well qualified workforce.

We’ve taken on a number of new engineering graduates and we’re excited about their ability to innovate and add value quickly. Well educated aspiring engineers are critical to our future.”

Brand-Rex is also keen to establish an apprenticeship programme and intends to appoint two maintenance engineer apprentices in the coming weeks.

Martin said: “We’re committed to the local community and to encouraging young people into engineering. In addition to taking on apprentices, we’re also getting involved in Fife Council’s Culture of Enterprise programme, Primary Engineer, which involves hosting future teacher and young people visits to the Brand-Rex customer centre.”

Brand-Rex’s carbon neutral status also sets it apart from its competitors, being the first in its sector to achieve this status. Going forward, it will continue to focus on the financial, data centre and health care markets, where there is strong demand as companies seek higher bandwidth, speed and up-scale ability.

Martin concluded: “We’re a third of the way through a strategic plan aimed at reclaiming our mantle as a tier one provider of data networking solutions. We’re on track; a new senior management team is in place; the company is growing and has been revitalised with investment in our infrastructure. We’re evolving everyday by pushing technological boundaries and are excited about the future.”

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news in brief

/ ENCOURAGING PERFORMANCE FOR FIFE Self-employed Fifers starting up their own firms are helping boost the local economy and bucking a national trend. Recent figures published by the Committee of Scottish Bankers have shown that in Fife the number opening bank accounts has increased by 3.3 per cent between April and September of this year. This is in contrast to a 4.4 per cent reduction across Scotland over the same period.

/ TENTH FIFE BUSINESS AWARDS The Fife Business Awards are open and businesses of all sizes are being encouraged to apply. There are ten categories, including the Tourism Award, Best Performing Business Award and Workforce for the Future, of which companies can enter one or more award categories. The awards take place on the 19th March 2015 and the closing date for the awards is the 19th December 2014. Visit www.fifechamber.co.uk for more information.

/ BLOWN AWAY BY AWARDS St Andrews-based outdoors experience company Blown Away has scooped the Best Outdoor/ Adventure Experience Award at the Central South East regional final of the Scottish Thistle Awards. The company, which has also won a Courier Business Award, will now go forward to the Scottish Thistle Awards final in March.

Proclad visit for Fife councillors A GROUP of Glenrothes councillors recently met FTV Proclad International Ltd as part of an ongoing programme to visit those companies at the heart of the town’s engineering sector.

The programme provides councillors with the opportunity to see first-hand the hard work, dedication and contribution these organisations make to the Fife economy.

As one of Fife’s largest employers, Proclad is one of the country’s foremost centres of excellence in large scale precision engineering for the oil and gas industry.

Proclad’s core offering includes cladding, precision machining, forging, heat treatment, fabrication and induction bending and is one of a small number of companies capable of undertaking this very technically challenging work.

Fife is now one of the UK’s most important clusters of subsea engineering and manufacturing capabilities with Proclad sitting alongside internationally known names such as FMC Technologies, Oceaneering, Babcock, Global Energy Group and BiFab. In 2013 Proclad received a Regional Selective Assistance grant of £750,000 to support a £6 million project to upgrade its equipment and as a result, it won its biggest ever order worth £9.8 million, almost twice as big as any previous order. The order was

for an installation off the coast of Western Australia, confirming Proclad’s position in the premier league of suppliers.

As well as investing in new equipment, Proclad has also invested in the workforce with additional apprentices and has joined the engineering skills academy run as part of the Council’s £5 million Fife Youth Job Contract.

Cllr Altany Craik said: “It was great to find out more about this local company and the part it is playing in helping to boost the local economy and I’m delighted to hear they’ve managed to attract their biggest ever order.

“It’s also encouraging to hear they’re helping the workforce of the future by pledging support to the Council’s Fife Youth Job Contract and skills academy to allow young people to find their way.”

Proclad’s investment in new equipment and its apprenticeship programme gives the company a solid foundation to enhance its standing in the international oil and gas industry.

The company continues to develop and invest in its Glenrothes facility with several equipment upgrades taking place in 2014.

Proclad will continue to work in partnership with Opportunities Fife to deliver new apprenticeships and meet the needs of the expanding worldwide business.

St Andrews Aquarium and The Boudingate in Cupar were also shortlisted in the Central South East regional final of the Scottish Thistle Awards.

Councillors visit Proclad (Back row from left to right: Pamela Stevenson, Fife Council Economic Development; Ross MacKenzie, Fife Council Economic Development; Duncan McDougall; Ian McArthur, Proclad; Cllr Altany Craik and Cllr Andy Heer. Front row from left to right: Cllr Ian Sloan; Cllr Kay Morrison; Cllr Betty Campbell and Mark Penman, Proclad).

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Fife Businesses “Meet the Funder” to talk finance

The attendees at the “Meet the Funder” event hosted by Fife Council Economic Development.

FINANCE is a critical issue for businesses of all sizes and knowing who to approach and how to put forward the best application for funding can make all the difference. This was one of the issues under the spotlight when Fife businesses had the opportunity to “Meet the Funder” at an event, hosted by Fife Council Economic Development.

It was attended by 70 local companies looking for information on finance from banks and other funders.

A wide range of high-profile banks and finance providers, including the Royal Bank of Scotland, Scottish Investment Bank, The Prince’s Trust Youth Business Scotland, Santander Bank, East of Scotland Investment Fund and Fife Chamber of Commerce, were amongst the exhibitors at the event to answer all types of funding questions and to offer tailored advice to businesses at all stages of development. There was also a short rolling programme of presentations on topical issues from investment to protecting your business.

Cllr Lesley Laird, Depute Leader and Executive Spokesperson for Economy and Planning, said:

“We know that business finance is a crucial issue and it is one of the most pressing concerns I hear about when visiting local companies. Bringing such a significant group of funders together to advise and help local businesses is extremely valuable and can only be a positive step.”

Businesses, and those advising businesses, such as accountancy firms, attended and found the event very worthwhile.

Stuart Foulkes of KK Electrics, St Andrews, said: “I came along to meet potential funders that could help us grow our business and today enabled me to do just that.”

Gail Cowan of Carters, said: “I found the Meet the Funder event very informative and worthwhile. It was great to network with exhibitors and find out what potential funding is available, so we can feed back to our clients.”

Any business looking for information on available funding should contact Business Gateway Fife on 01592 858333. Free support and advice is available for businesses at any stage including information on the recently launched Start Up Loan.

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Events Diary TITLE

PROVIDER

DATE & TIME

VENUE

COST

CONTACT

Finance Bookkeeping

Business Gateway Fife

13, 21 January & 17 February 2015

Dunfermline & Glenrothes

Free

www.bgateway.com/events or call 01592 858333

Business Expenses & Capital Allowances

Business Gateway Fife

12 February & 26,30 March 2015

Glenrothes & Dunfermline

Free

www.bgateway.com/events or call 01592 858333

Newly Self-Employed – The Basics

Business Gateway Fife

10 February & 18, 24 March 2015

Glenrothes & Dunfermline

Free

www.bgateway.com/events or call 01592 858333

Get Real Results from Your Website

Business Gateway Fife

14 January & 18 February 2015

Dunfermline & Glenrothes

Free

www.bgateway.com/events or call 01592 858333

Improve Your Search Engine Ranking

Business Gateway Fife

22 January & 25 February 2015

Dunfermline & Glenrothes

Free

www.bgateway.com/events or call 01592 858333

Trading Online

Business Gateway Fife

29 January & 11 March 2015

Dunfermline & Glenrothes

Free

www.bgateway.com/events or call 01592 858333

Social Media – Basic

Business Gateway Fife

8 January & 4 March 2015

Dunfermline & Glenrothes

Free

www.bgateway.com/events or call 01592 858333

Wordpress

Business Gateway Fife

5 February & 18 March 2015

Dunfermline & Glenrothes

Free

www.bgateway.com/events or call 01592 858333

Social Media – Advanced

Business Gateway Fife

10 February & 25 March 2015

Dunfermline & Glenrothes

Free

www.bgateway.com/events or call 01592 858333

Advertising with Social Media

Business Gateway Fife

20 February 2015

Saltire House, Glenrothes

Free

www.bgateway.com/events or call 01592 858333

Ecommerce Courses

People Management/Specialist Events An Introduction to Project Management

Business Gateway Fife

15 January 2015

Saltire House, Glenrothes

Free

www.bgateway.com/events or call 01592 858333

Becoming An Employer

Business Gateway Fife

21 January 2015

Saltire House, Glenrothes

Free

www.bgateway.com/events or call 01592 858333

IP – Intellectual Property

Business Gateway Fife

22 January & 19 March 2015

Saltire House, Glenrothes

Free

www.bgateway.com/events or call 01592 858333

An Introduction to Food Hygiene and Health & Safety

Business Gateway Fife

2 February 2015

Saltire House, Glenrothes

Free

www.bgateway.com/events or call 01592 858333

Getting the Most out of your People

Business Gateway Fife

11 March 2015

Saltire House, Glenrothes

Free

www.bgateway.com/events or call 01592 858333

Marketing Your Business

Business Gateway Fife

12 January & 2 March 2015

Dunfermline & Glenrothes

Free

www.bgateway.com/events or call 01592 858333

Advertising & Promotion

Business Gateway Fife

19 January & 9 March 2015

Dunfermline & Glenrothes

Free

www.bgateway.com/events or call 01592 858333

Mastering Selling Skills

Business Gateway Fife

26 January & 16 March 2015

Dunfermline & Glenrothes

Free

www.bgateway.com/events or call 01592 858333

PR on a Shoestring

Business Gateway Fife

15 January & 5 March 2015

Dunfermline & Glenrothes

Free

www.bgateway.com/events or call 01592 858333

Harnessing the Power of the Sales Process

Business Gateway Fife

11 February 2015

Saltire House, Glenrothes

Free

www.bgateway.com/events or call 01592 858333

Fife Chamber of Commerce

19 March 2015 6:45pm to 11:00pm

Rothes Halls, Glenrothes

£70

http://my.fifechamber.co.uk or call 01592 647740

Sales & Marketing

Fife Chamber Events Fife Business Awards

Supplier Development Programme Events Quality Management Workshop

SDP/Fife Council

15 January 2015 9.30am to 12.30pm

Fife Renewables Innovation Centre, Methil

Free

Online registration at: http://www. sdpscotland.co.uk/events/eventscalendar

Winning Business in Defence and Aerospace Supply Chains

SDP/Fife Council

21 January 2015 9.30am to 12.00pm

Carnegie Conference Centre, Dunfermline

Free

Online registration at: http://www. sdpscotland.co.uk/events/eventscalendar

Expanding your Procurement Horizons

SDP/Fife Council

4 February 2015 9.30am to 12.00pm

Carnegie Conference Centre, Dunfermline

Free

Online registration at: http://www. sdpscotland.co.uk/events/eventscalendar

SR Offshore Wind Supply Chain Exhibition

Scottish Enterprise/ Scottish Renewables

27 & 28 January 2015

AECC, Aberdeen

See website for details

http://www.scottishrenewables.com/ events/offshore-wind/

Southern Manufacturing 2015

MDP/Fife Council

10-12 February 2015

FIVE, Farnborough, Hampshire

See website for details

http://www.industrysouth.co.uk/

EcoBuild 2015

East Coast Renewables

3-5 March 2015

Excel London

See website for details

www.ecobuild.co.uk

Fife Council Events

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East of Scotland Investment Fund

Investing in Business

Are you looking for Business Finance?

If you’re a Fife start up with growth plans 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 may not account for 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?

• All types of businesses – sole traders, partnerships, limited companies and co-operatives

All types of enquiries are welcome Call Business Gateway Fife on 01592 858333 or visit www.eastscotinvest.co.uk for more information.

AG BROWN FABRICATIONS LTD SECURE £50,000 FROM ESIF AG Brown Fabrications Ltd, a Glenrothes based steel fabrication and manufacturing business used the East of Scotland Investment Fund to secure a £50,000 loan to develop its thriving business.

Specialising in design and problem solving areas of the oil and gas industry, the loan was key to their long term success.