THE DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
ISSUE 21 • WINTER 2013
Hitting the
Heights
• FITNESS FIRST FOR KIRSTY PAGE 9 • TITAN CRANE TRIUMPHS PAGES 24 - 26 • HELP ON THE HORIZON PAGES 34 - 36 • EVENTS PAGES 44 - 46
Grow your business in West Dunbartonshire
Contact our Business Support Team for information Business Support Hotline: 01389 737777 E-mail: business.support@west-dunbarton.gov.uk www.west-dunbarton.gov.uk Economic Development Section West Dunbartonshire Council, Council Offices, Garshake Road, Dumbarton. G82 3PU
Develop and grow your business with our range of grants, loans and advisory support
Contents From the Editor.............................. 4 Social Media Expert on Board......... 4 Chamber News.............................. 5 News in Brief...............................6-8 Fitness First For Kirsty...................... 9 Architect’s Design Success............. 11 Chivas Brothers Goes Green......... 12
Photo courtesy of Green Highlander Images.
welcome
Economic Development Expert Appointed.................................... 14 Woodland Setting for Birds of Prey... 15 Job Award Triple........................... 17 Lomondgate Job Creation Success.......................... 20
‘EVENTS dear boy, events’ is what Harold McMillan allegedly replied when asked what government’s fear most. However, I am pleased to report that it is our coming events I am most definitely looking forward to as your president. My first priority on becoming president was to make chamber events number one for networking and business in the area. The board of directors has also taken the strategic decision to alternate events each month between east and west Dunbartonshire. So far this has worked well – we had almost 60 at our Titan Crane event in Clydebank and 30 people came to hear an excellent presentation by Linda Urquhart, OBE, at Virgin Active in Milngavie.
I will be taking the entire Rennie McInnes team. Why not bring your team and/or clients along too for a festive treat? The more the merrier. Finally, on 22 January, come and hear Malcolm Roughead, chief executive of VisitScotland extol the business benefits of tourism. If you are involved in this sector you will never get a better chance to quiz the man at the top. But the chamber is not just about events - feedback from the Titan Crane re-launch showed that 62 per cent said you would come to a business lunch if we organised it. We have taken your comments on board and the first lunch is on 12 November. These will be held in the alternate county to that month’s event, so the first one will be in West Dunbartonshire. So, in addition to events, let’s do lunch.
I am delighted to have John and James Pirrie as speakers for our November event.You may know that the Pirrie Brothers sold LCH Generators to Speedyhire in 2006 for £62 million. Having built up the business from scratch, they have a fascinating story to tell. December is, of course, party time and where better to celebrate than at Cameron House, Loch Lomond, which will be the venue for the chamber Christmas lunch on 19 December?
Business Gateway Mobile App....... 21 Titan Crane Triumphs...............24-26 ‘Best Turnout’ for Food and Drink Festival......................... 29 Masterclass for Young Entrepreneurs............................... 30 Sustainability Success for Glenhead Engineering.................. 31 Mr Wilson Goes to Westminster.... 33 Help on the Horizon................34-36 Work Placement Helps Dylan......... 38 Skills and Experience Gap Concerns ............................ 38 RICS Board Position for Nick Allan ................................... 39 New Members.............................. 42 Linda Urquhart Event.................... 44 Events Diary ...........................44-46 Cover photo of the Titan Crane by Green Highlander Images. www.greenhighlanderimages.co.uk
Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce Whitecrook Business Centre 78 Whitecrook Street, Clydebank G81 1QF. T: 0141 280 0272 F: 01389 750005 E: admin@dunbartonshirechamber.co.uk www.dunbartonshirechamber.co.uk For advertising contact D-Tech: T: 01436 678808/671133 E: sales@incommerce.biz
Stewart Rennie President Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce www.dunbartonshirechamber.co.uk www.incommerce.biz
For editorial contact editor: June Hyslop T: 07944 265126 E: editor@incommerce.biz Publisher: D-Tech INCOMMERCE is published by D-Tech, 20 East Argyle Street, Helensburgh G84 7RR Telephone 01436 678808/671133. E-mail: info@dtechuk.com. Edited by June Hyslop, Copywrite Editorial, Dumbarton. Telephone 07944 265126. E-mail: editor@incommerce.biz. INCOMMERCE is fully protected by copyright and nothing may be printed nor copied 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. They cannot be held liable for any loss suffered as a result of information contained within this publication. The views expressed by authors of articles published in this magazine are solely those of the author and are not necessarily the views of or shared by the editor, the publisher or the directors, shareholders and/or employees of D-Tech or Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce.
Social Media Expert on Board
FROM THE
EDITOR editor@incommerce.biz THE Titan Crane really is an engineering marvel – an iconic feature of the Clydebank skyline and a tangible link to the town’s proud shipbuilding history. It is good to see it being recognised with awards both for its past and for its present role as a visitor attraction – one that offers fantastic panoramic views from its deck.
AWARD -winning social media expert Gillian Dick (pictured) has joined the board of Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce.
Young entrepreneur, Kirsty MacArthur was on top of the world too when she received £1000 as regional winner of the Prince’s Trust Youth Business Scotland Awards. Her business, ‘Curves’ in Bishopbriggs, is designed especially to help women get fit with a 30 minute workout and weight management programme. Runner-up Jennifer Boyle followed her dream and opened Café Crème in Bearsden with her sisters. It was so successful that within a few months they opened a second shop in Bishopbriggs. (page 9) Chamber member, The Lennox Partnership, has had a run of success too helping young people into sustainable employment – no mean feat in the current economic climate. It may be one of the smallest organisations involved in the government’s Work Programme but it is making a big impact. (page 17) The development at Lomondgate in Dumbarton is also creating jobs – there are now nearly twice as many on site as were lost with the closure of the J&B bottling plant 13 years ago, with more in the pipeline. (page 18) When someone leaves the armed forces, employment can be hard to find. Chamber member, Horizon Security Solutions, helps exservicemen and women find work using mentoring, guidance and training courses. Ninety-five per cent of its students get a job after completing their courses. Read about the work Horizon is doing and about its involvement with the Soldier On Project which was set up by army wife, Sue White, to help veterans bridge the gap between the services and civilian life. (pages 30 to 32)
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DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • WINTER 2013
Photo courtesy of Stuart Russell Photography.
The recent chamber event where members had the chance to check out the view from the top, courtesy of Clydebank Re-built, was very popular. (pages 22 to 24)
In her role as adviser, Gillian will be responsible for the chamber’s Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn accounts and for advising the board on how best to use social media to promote the chamber. Gillian, who is from Bearsden in East Dunbartonshire, runs her own businesses Find Me Glasgow and On Track Advertising Limited. She was winner of the best employer of a student or graduate category at the Glasgow Business Awards and was a finalist for creative marketing in 2012. In 2011 she won the Association of Scottish Businesswomen (ASB) Most Enterprising Business Award and was a finalist in the Glasgow Business Awards Young Business Person of the Year. In her second year in business, she won the ASB Young Business of the Year and Glasgow Business Awards prize for best use of social media. “A chamber should be one of the first points of reference for anyone looking to do business in an area,” said Gillian. “I am delighted to be joining the board of my local chamber. The way we do business has changed dramatically over the last 10 years and social media is now key. “I am excited to be working with the chamber on developing and delivering a strategy which supports engagement, increases visibility, expands reach and increases member value.”
The Scottish Parliament
Nationwide Launch for Graduate Recruitment Incentive A HUGELY successful Scottish Chambers of Commerce pilot aimed at getting graduates into full-time work is being extended to cover the whole of Scotland.
John Swinney Praises Chambers of Commerce
The Scottish Graduate Recruitment Incentive will be delivered by local chambers, including Dunbartonshire.
SCOTTISH Government cabinet secretary John Swinney praised the efforts of chambers in bringing the issues that affect businesses to the attention of government.
Chamber president, Stewart Rennie, commented: “This is an important incentive that will only be available through chambers of commerce and I am pleased to report that Dunbartonshire has signed up to its initial stages.”
The Scottish Government funded programme offers a grant of £1500 to small businesses giving full-time employment to a graduate under the age of 30. Support will be provided to help businesses draw up a job specification, advertise, recruit and also to monitor the successful applicant’s progress.
The minister for finance, employment and sustainable growth attended the AGM of Scottish Chambers of Commerce (SCC) in September. Chamber president, Stewart Rennie, said: “The address by John Swinney was undoubtedly the highlight of the day. Meeting him in a small gathering was very enlightening. “I saw at first hand the real lobbying power membership of the chamber brings to our members and felt I could discuss the interests of Dunbartonshire businesses directly with the Scottish Government.” Stewart also attended the quarterly council meeting which was held on the same day.
DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • WINTER 2013
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news in brief… Scottish Family Business Awards
Photo courtesy of Milngavie My Way BID Steering Group.
THE winners of The Herald Scottish Family Business Awards will be announced at a gala award ceremony on Wednesday, 4 December, in Glasgow.
Excellent Milngavie BID Survey Response
Entries for the awards, which are run in association with Business Gateway, closed on 25 October.
MILNGAVIE businesses want to see a focus on marketing, events and accessibility in the town centre.
Hugh Lightbody, Business Gateway National Unit chief officer, said: “The 2012 awards programme showed the high calibre of family businesses currently operating in Scotland and I am sure we will see equally impressive entrants this year."
Almost 60 per cent responded to a Milngavie BID survey questionnaire where they affirmed the importance of acting together to drive down costs, access training and increase footfall.
There are 11 awards for family businesses of all sizes and in all sectors across Scotland, including two overall awards for the Scottish Family Business of the Year in the small/medium and large categories. A special chairman's award will also be made on the night to someone who has made a valuable contribution to the family business sector in Scotland. Nearly three quarters of businesses in Scotland are family enterprises including many of the biggest and best-known. Some have continued to grow under family ownership and management, and have become household names, while others have listed on the stock market and made it all the way to the FTSE-100 index. Now in their second year, the awards will continue to celebrate the success of this diverse, dynamic and innovative business sector, and the contribution which these firms make both to their communities and to the wider economy.
A group of business owners make up the Steering Group for Milngavie My Way Developing BID (Business Improvement District) which encourages businesses to work together to improve trading. A BID is a business-led initiative within a defined geographical area which provides a mechanism for investment in local improvements. Through consultation, a range of projects and services are agreed and voted upon by all eligible businesses in the area and these are then delivered over a five year period. Ian Lavrie, owner of Allander Flooring in the town, is chairman of the steering group: “I believe a concerted effort made by all businesses in the town centre is necessary to secure ourselves a sustainable future, both as a competitive commercial centre for retail and services, and as a vibrant focal point for our community.” As it develops, the BID hopes to work with Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce on a number of future initiatives.
www.herald-events.com/familybusiness www.milngaviemyway.co.uk
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DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • WINTER 2013
Photo courtesy of Paul Saunders Photography.
Sixth Birthday Celebration at Tissue Solutions TISSUE Solutions Ltd, which sources human biomaterials for preclinical research, recently celebrated its sixth birthday. The business was founded in 2007 by Dr Morag McFarlane and Dr Ann Cooreman and is now an ISO accredited company that works world-wide delivering ethically sourced biological samples for research, including cells, tissues and biofluids. AUTUMN SPLENDOUR: Boats at Balmaha, Loch Lomond.
Tissue Solutions has an extensive global network of collaborating partners. These range from direct hospital sources to commercial bio-banks, charities and post mortem organ and tissue collection agencies.
Love Loch Lomond Autumn Campaign
In the past six years , the company has gained an international reputation, increased both turnover and head count, and outgrown two sets of premises. It is now based in the West of Scotland Science Park. "We like to think of ourselves as part of our clients’ tissue acquisition team,” said Morag McFarlane, chief scientific officer.
LOVE Loch Lomond (LLL) promoted a range of autumn breaks and days out aimed at generating £1.6 million of new business for the area.
“We work directly with our clients to source samples that are suitable for their specific platform or application. During the last six years we have experienced exponential growth due to the ever-increasing demand for human tissue mostly for pre-clinical research but more recently also for later stage projects.”
Its Natural Scotland autumn campaign represents the second phase of £85,000 worth of funding from VisitScotland to publicise Loch Lomond and the Clyde sea lochs area. The trade organisation built on the success of its spring into summer campaign with a series of high quality video films showcasing the area, extensive online and media advertising, travel press trips, holiday competitions, as well as using social media.
Tissue Solutions Ltd can now provide banked and freshly collected biospecimens from both normal donors and patients across a full range of disease areas including cancer, autoimmune disorders, CNS/neurodegeneration, inflammation, cardiovascular, metabolic disorders, infectious diseases, and blood disorders.
LLL chairman, Stuart Cordner, said: “The Love Loch Lomond area in autumn is perfect for capitalising on VisitScotland’s Year of Natural Scotland campaign.
www.tissue-solutions.com
“We are working hard to show visitors the amazing places, activities and experiences we have to offer. We welcome this additional funding as it will enable us to work with local business to promote our area in key priority markets in Scotland, the North East of England and the Midlands.” Photo courtesy of Tissue Solutions Ltd.
LLL is a consortium of more than 100 tourism businesses dedicated to working on a collaborative basis to capitalise on the area's strong tourism potential. www.lovelochlomond.com lovelochlomond Facebook “f ” Logo
BIRTHDAY CAKE: Dr Morag McFarlane (front row left) and Dr Ann Cooreman (back row right) with some of the Tissue Solutions’ team.
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DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • WINTER 2013
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Effective Chamber Partnership Meets West Scotland MSP for Business Growth WORKING together to help business growth was the theme of a recent workshop organised by Scottish Enterprise (SE) at Clydebank Town Hall. The event was well attended by representatives from Scottish Enterprise; East Dunbartonshire, West Dunbartonshire and Argyll and Bute Councils; Business Gateway; Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce; Skills Development Scotland; East Dunbartonshire Voluntary Action, West Dunbartonshire CVS and Firstport.
Image © Scottish Parliamentary Corporate Body – 2012. Licensed under the Open Scottish Parliament Licence v1.0 www.scottish.parliament.uk/Corporateandlegalresources/OpenLicence.pdf
CHAMBER board members met Stuart McMillan (pictured) as part of the MSP’s summer tour of the West Scotland region. President Stewart Rennie, honorary president John Corcoran and director James Richardson attended the meeting with Ronnie McLaren and Bob Donaldson of Business Gateway and Claire Forbes Youth Business Scotland. The meeting covered a number of topics, including marine tourism, accessible tourism, people with visual impairments and youth employment Stewart said: “It was fascinating to hear about Stuart’s work, particularly in the area of accessible tourism and we will be following up with him on behalf of our tourism members.” The tour was an opportunity for the list MSP to meet businesses, charities, individuals, local organisations and voluntary groups. Over three weeks he visited Alexandria, Clydebank, Dumbarton, Helensburgh, Gourock, Greenock, Irvine, Largs and Paisley. Mr McMillan explained: “The tour allows me to go back to the Scottish Parliament knowing I have a better knowledge and understanding of the region.”
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DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • WINTER 2013
The workshop gave front-line advisers an opportunity to share information on their respective products and services enabling them to help local companies receive the best support, quickly and effectively, from appropriate agencies. The workshop also gave advisers a chance to network and build live connections with each other.
Photo by Ed Smith Photography.
YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS: Jennifer Boyle and Kirsty MacArthur with their awards.
Fitness First for Kirsty’s ‘Curves’ FITNESS fanatic Kirsty MacArthur is Dunbartonshire’s top young entrepreneur.
At the start of 2013, Jennifer and her sisters decided to pursue their dream of opening and running a local coffee shop.
The 27-year-old founder of MacArthur Leisure Ltd, which trades as Curves Bishopbriggs, was announced as the regional winner of the 2013 Prince’s Trust Youth Business Scotland (PTYBS) Awards.
In April, they were awarded a PTYBS market test grant which identified a demand in the local area so Jennifer left full-time employment and purchased the already established café.
She received a £1000 cash prize from Craig Kehoe, customer service manager with Chivas Brothers, who sponsored the award. Kirsty worked at the club for six years and, when the opportunity came up to buy the franchise in August 2011, she jumped at the chance. With funding from the PTYBS, Kirsty turned what had been a loss-making business into a successful venture, achieving a considerable increase in profits in the process. Curves Bishopbriggs is designed especially for women and features a complete 30 minute workout and weight management programme. Kirsty now employs five staff and has recently introduced new concepts, such as powerhoop, bridal and bikini boot camps.
The café specialises in home cooking and baking and also provides a catering service and personalised menus for various events. It offers work placements and experience to pupils in local schools and colleges and opened a second shop in Bishopbriggs in March. Speaking at the awards, PTYBS regional support executive, Ken Robertson, said: “Both these young entrepreneurs have exemplified determination, the will to succeed and the ability to turn a good idea into a viable business. They are great role models for other young people and deserving winners of these awards.” The awards were co-sponsored by West Dunbartonshire Council. www.princes-trust.org.uk
The runner-up prize, sponsored by East Dunbartonshire Council, went to 25-year-old Jennifer Boyle of Café Crème in Bearsden.
DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • WINTER 2013
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Photos courtesy of Ashley Coombes.
Architects’ Design Success
THOMAS Robinson Architects won a £600,000 contract to refurbish Clincarthill Parish Church in the South Side of Glasgow. The Croftamie-based practice helped modernise and improve the B-listed church and halls with proposals which respected the architecture of the existing buildings while modernising the look and function of the interior spaces. The congregation was involved at every stage of the project, which included refurbishment of the church with extended chancel, creation of a small chapel and meeting room, new lighting and an audio visual system. Tom said: “Many of the churches that I see in my work for Glasgow presbytery have encountered similar issues to those at Clincarthill. A lot of thinking time can be saved just by taking the right approach in finding out what might be right for a particular congregation.” The practice also won an Award for Sustainable Architecture in the Glasgow Institute of Architects Design Awards last year for the creation of two eco-friendly luxury holiday cottages from derelict farm buildings in West Dunbartonshire. The development at East Cambusmoon in the heart of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, involved creating properties with high levels of comfort which conserved energy and used sustainable materials. Re-using existing roof slates and red sandstone helped retain the character of the properties while modern materials such as larch cladding were introduced in the new-build section. Energy efficiency was also high on the priority list and both cottages used a highly-insulated and airtight timber frame to keep draughts out and heat in. A ground-source heat pump and solar roof panels ensure most of the energy required is produced on site, while a heat-recovery system, underfloor heating and high-efficiency stoves provide back-up heat sources.
DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • WINTER 2013
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Chivas Brothers Goes Green with Electric Cars CHIVAS Brothers has introduced a fleet of 10 electric cars which should reduce its CO2 emissions by 18 tonnes a year.
our vehicle fleet. We were among the first adopters of hybrid technology, so the purchase of these electric vehicles was the next logical step.
The Vauxhall Ampera vehicles will be used mostly in electric mode by employees travelling between the company’s central Scottish sites in Ayrshire, Dunbartonshire, Glasgow and Paisley.
“We are continually looking at ways to improve our environmental performance and reduce our carbon footprint.”
Four are based at Kilmalid in Dumbarton, four at Paisley and two are being shared by various locations in Speyside.
The cars will stay on the fleet for five years and will each cover around 12,000 miles a year.
They replace the firms fleet of hybrid pool cars and have a total average range of 360 miles thanks to the addition of a small petrol engine which kicks in to generate more electricity if needed, making them suitable for longer journeys too.
Chivas Brothers is also committed to increasing the efficiency of its distilleries, with most sites now using up to 20 per cent less energy to produce a litre of alcohol than the industry benchmark. Overall energy usage per litre has fallen by 11 per cent in the last five years. In addition, the company has a 'zero waste' target, with a recycling figure of 88 per cent already achieved across the business.
Heavy-duty weather resistant charging stations have also been installed in Dumbarton, Paisley and Speyside with help from Transport Scotland and the Energy Saving Trust.
www.chivasbrothers.com
COMPANY ECO-CARS: Tristan Campbell, Chivas Brothers’ fleet adviser takes delivery of the new electric vehicles from Steve Hickman, Vauxhall fleet sales manager.
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DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • WINTER 2013
Photo courtesy of Chivas Brothers Ltd.
Tristan Campbell, Chivas Brothers’ fleet adviser, said: “We have always been at the forefront when it comes to fuel efficiency in
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Room hire from £100 Day delegate rate available Full conference facilities Free car parking Excellent motorway access Close to Glasgow Open all year round Disabled access Catering available Up to 100 delegates
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Erskine Reid Macewen Training and Conference Centre Bishopton, Renfrewshire, Scotland, PA7 5PU 0141 814 4534 reidmacewen@erskine.org.uk www.erskine.org.uk
Council Appoints Key Economic Development Expert Photo courtesy of West Dunbartonshire Council.
RICHARD Cairns (pictured) is West Dunbartonshire Council’s new executive director for infrastructure and regeneration. He took charge on 1 October and joins the council from Mazars, a global audit and advisory firm where he worked as head of economic development. Mr Cairns is a former national head of economic development regeneration for the Audit Commission and has a wealth of experience from his time as head of economic and social initiatives at Glasgow City Council. Commenting on his appointment, he said: “This is a very exciting role which offers a rare opportunity to shape the future of a council area that has lots of economic potential. “Regenerating such key sites as Queens Quay in Clydebank and the riverside area of Dumbarton will create vital new jobs, additional housing and a growing local economy. “I think there are also a number of avenues to explore with regard to properly capitalising on the fantastic tourism opportunities that are already available within West Dunbartonshire. “Developing business opportunities and investment is a wealth creator that can help to tackle difficult problems like worklessness and poverty.
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DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • WINTER 2013
“I am focused on doing everything I can to create an environment that supports and encourages business and economic growth at all levels in order to improve the prosperity of the people of West Dunbartonshire." Leader of the council, Councillor Martin Rooney, who chaired the recruitment committee, said: “Attracting someone of Richard’s stature and experience is a significant achievement and demonstrates that West Dunbartonshire Council is recognised as an exciting and dynamic place to work. “I believe Richard will be a key addition to our strategic leadership team and help us on our journey to create an enterprising West Dunbartonshire more able to improve the quality of life for local people.” Chief executive Joyce White said she was delighted to welcome Richard to the council: “I look forward to working closely with him as we seek to continue the momentum for growth and regeneration in West Dunbartonshire. “It is a big job and I am confident that Richard will deliver for local people and provide valuable leadership to our staff.” Richard replaces Elaine Melrose who left the council in September to join the Wheatley Group as its new group director of resources.
New Woodland Setting for Bird of Prey Centre Photos courtesy of Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre
LOCH Lomond Bird of Prey Centre has expanded and moved to a new purpose-built home in a natural woodland setting. Its new premises at Loch Lomond Shores offer a high standard of accommodation and will see the centre continue its focus on the educational aspect of birds of prey, wildlife conservation and preservation of natural habitat. The centre is home to more than 24 species of birds of prey and owls, including Orla, the magnificent female golden eagle who appeared on the BBC’s Winterwatch Unsprung in January this year. The opening ceremony on 9 November was performed by BBC television presenter Paul Murton of ‘Grand Tours of Scotland’. The move is a welcome boost for the centre which saw a drop in visitor numbers after it had to move from one end of its former home at Ballagan car park in Balloch to the other. Managing director Stewart Robertson said: “The quality of building and landscaping provides a better, more natural setting for the birds, as well as an ‘adventure’ for visitors to enjoy.” The centre first opened in November 2004 under the stewardship of the late Brian Haining, who died in October 2006 after a long battle with cancer. It was taken over by his close friend, Stewart Robertson, in January 2008. www.llbopc.co.uk Facebook “f ” Logo
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Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre
DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • WINTER 2013
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Job Award Triple for The Lennox Partnership
WINNING TEAM (L-R): Scott Kennedy, Working Links head of supply chain management – Scotland, Mary McCaig and Margo Moffat, both TLP Work Programme performance managers with Millie Banerjee, chairman, Working Links and Blyth Deans, TLP chief executive. Photo courtesy of The Lennox Partnership.
THE Lennox Partnership (TLP) won a top award three months in a row for its success in finding sustainable employment for unemployed people. Although it is one of the smallest organisations involved in the government’s Work Programme, it won the ‘partner of the month’ award in June, July and August. TLP had the highest number of job starts as a percentage of customer referrals in Scotland, Wales and the South West of England.
Blyth Deans, TLP chief executive, said: “Winning the award for the third month in a row is a fantastic achievement and is great recognition of the hard work and dedication of our Work Programme delivery teams. “We are delighted to have been able to sustain the level of performance that brought us the June and July awards and can hopefully use this as a solid foundation for our performance delivery for the remainder of the year as we seek to maintain our position.”
In recognition of its achievement, the chairman of Working Links, Millie Banerjee, came from London to present The Lennox Partnership team with its August award.
The Work Programme supports a wide range of clients from unemployment into sustainable work, over a two year period, and is available throughout Britain, via a network of 18 prime providers and their supply chains.
Since June 2011, TLP has been delivering the government’s flagship welfare-to-work initiative, The Work Programme, in East and West Dunbartonshire on behalf of Working Links.
Working Links, which is responsible for contracts in Scotland, Wales and the South West of England, introduced the award earlier this year for its supply chain partners. www.thelennoxpartnership.org
DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • WINTER 2013
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ADVERTISING FEATURE
Business Services in East Dunbartonshire Starting Your Business If you are thinking about starting up in business we offer a range of services to assist you through targeted Business Gateway support. We run free workshops, adviser meetings and networking events locally. Our Business Advisers are always happy to discuss new business ideas.
Growing Your Business Growth has its risks, but the right strategy can deliver stability, security and long-term profits. Our advisers will be able to assess your current position and establish how well equipped you are to handle growth. Once you evaluate whether you want to consolidate your business' position or find ways to grow, you can start building your future strategy, with our help.
Consultancy and Advice We offer a range of professional advice services. As well as offering a one-to-one meeting with a business adviser, we also offer a fully funded consultancy session or training session with a specialist advisor to help with any identified business weakness.
Financial Support East Dunbartonshire Council provides access to a range of programmes, including grants for: Business Training, E-Commerce, Employment and a New Enterprise Fund which supports businesses before and during their formative stages.
You may also be eligible for support from partner organisations such as, Prince’s Trust for Youth Business Scotland and West of Scotland Loan Fund. For further information please call East Dunbartonshire Business Services on 0141 578 8530 www.eastdunbarton.gov. uk/business
Employer Recruitment Initiative Youth Employment Scotland (YES) Programme is funded by the Scottish Government and European Social Fund (ESF), and is delivered via East Dunbartonshire Council with support from partners including the voluntary sector, Jobcentre Plus, Skills Development Scotland, local colleges and other learning and skills providers. YES takes the form of an employer incentive, via a wage subsidy, to encourage local employers to create new jobs for young people. The wage subsidy is only available to 16-24 year olds who are less than 6 months unwaged/unemployed (not restricted to Jobseekers claimants) and are residents of East Dunbartonshire. The wage subsidy is 50% of the national minimum wage for the age of the young person being employed, for up to 6 months (26 weeks). For further information please contact: East Dunbartonshire Council Learning and Skills on 0141 777 3144.
Patricia Watson OBE Able2Wear Advertorial
Dunbartonshire business has success all sewn up. When Patricia Watson OBE was looking for some IT and marketing advice to help her grow her long established and successful specialist clothing company, the Dunbartonshire businesswoman looked to Business Gateway for some advice. “We launched Able2Wear (www.able2wear.co.uk) in 2004 and over the years we have established a market leading position in the design and manufacture of clothes for wheelchair users, or for anyone who Patricia Watson OBE has problems in finding clothing that fits properly,” said Patricia. Able2Wear Patricia Watson OBE Able2Wear “When I was looking at growth opportunities for the business earlier this year I realised that there were key areas where I needed to improve our operations and that was when I approached Business Gateway.
Dunbartonshire business “My adviser, David Chisholm, has been a breath of fresh air and has has success sewnstrategy up. and business Dunbartonshire helped us with ourall marketing with improvements to our
has success all sewn up.
ICT. E-commerce be important so E-commerce will be moving increasingly forward important moving WHEN Patricia Watson OBE was will looking forincreasingly some forward so helped we were pleased when Business Gateway IT and marketing to helpwhen her growBusiness her we wereadvice pleased Gateway to identify a grant helped to identify a grant to allow us to upgrade our long established and successful specialist clothing to allow us to upgrade our website.” website.” company, the Dunbartonshire businesswoman looked to When Business Gateway for some advice. OBE was looking for some IT and marketing Patricia Watson the business saw a 39 per cent increase Although the business saw a 39 perAlthough cent increase in turnover last in turnover last year, is certainly not planning “We launchedto Able2Wear (www.able2wear.co.uk) in established advice help her grow her long andPatricia successful specialist Patricia not planning sitandback anddrawn has up already to sitto back has already plans that she 2004year, and over the years is we certainly have established a market clothing company, the Dunbartonshire businesswoman looked to hopes will see a move into bigger premises, doubling of leading position in the design and manufacture of drawn up plans that she hopes will see a move into bigger premises, turnover and increased exports over the coming year. clothes for wheelchair users, or for for anyone who has Business Gateway some advice. doubling turnover and increased exports over the coming year. problems in findingof clothing that fits properly,” said Business Gateway Adviser, David Chisholm added: Patricia. “We launched Able2Wear (www.able2wear.co.uk) in 2004 andtoover “Patricia knows exactly where she wants take Business Gateway Adviser, David Chisholm added: “Patricia knows Able2Wear and she knows Business Gateway will be “When was looking growth opportunities for the theI years weat have established a market leading position in the design exactly where she wants take and Business there to support her she as theknows business develops.” business earlier this year I realised that thereto were key Able2Wear and manufacture of our clothes forandwheelchair users, or for anyone who areasGateway where I needed to improve operations will be there to support her as the business develops.” that was problems when I approached has in fiBusiness ndingGateway. clothing that fits properly,” said Patricia. To find out how Business Gateway can help you visit To find out how has Business Gateway www.bgateway.com/eastdunbartonshire can help you visit “My adviser, David Chisholm, been a breath contact “When I was looking at growth opportunities for the business earlierorthis of fresh air and has helped us with our marketing your local office 0141 578 8530. www.bgateway.com/eastdunbartonshire or on contact strategy with improvements to ourwere ICT. yearand I realised that there key areas where I needed to improve our your local office on 0141 435 7560. operations and that was when I approached Business Gateway.
“My adviser, 0845 609David 6611Chisholm, has been a breath of fresh air and has 0141 578 8530 helped us with our marketing strategy and with improvements to our www.bgateway.com ICT. E-commerce will be increasingly important moving forward so we were pleased when Business Gateway helped to identify a grant to allow us to upgrade our website.” Although the business saw a 39 per cent increase in turnover last with the support of associated partner organisations. Maximum call charge from BT landline is 3p a minute. year, Patricia is certainly not planning to sit back and has already drawn up plans that she hopes will see a move into bigger premises,
Business Gateway services are delivered by Local Authorities, Scottish Enterprise and Scottish Government with the support of associated partner organisations. Gateway are delivered by Local Authorities, Scottish Enterprise and Scottish Government MaximumBusiness call charge from BT landlineservices is 3p a minute.
Photo courtesy of Strathleven Regeneration.
Lomondgate Job Creation Success LOMONDGATE in Dumbarton has nearly twice as many jobs on site as were lost with the closure of the J&B bottling plant in 2000.
Housing development continues with around 250 homes completed or under construction by Walker Group, Persimmon Homes and Taylor Wimpey.
The regeneration and development project had 702 full-time equivalent jobs at the last count and that will continue to grow as more businesses locate there.
An independent economic impact assessment estimates that there could be almost 2,000 jobs at Lomondgate by 2020, with a cumulative effect of more than £500 million on the regional economy.
Euro Garages Ltd has recently applied for planning permission for a petrol filling station and the business park has still to come on stream both on land to the north of the A82. Leader of West Dunbartonshire Council, Councillor Martin Rooney, said: “I’m delighted with the regeneration and development at Lomondgate by Strathleven Regeneration and Walker Group, in particular securing jobs for more than 700 people. “The group’s commitment to developing the site has not only brought much needed local employment to the area, but also high-quality housing in West Dunbartonshire. “Given the prominent position of the site on the gateway to Loch Lomond, I am sure we can attract more businesses to the area.”
The report also reckons there has been a £62 million total capital investment in Lomondgate and that the project has, since its inception, generated £181 million of gross value added for the region. The site is now home to BBC Scotland’s Dumbarton studios and River City set, a Premier Inn hotel, a Brewers Fayre pub/ restaurant and Scotland’s first drive-through Costa. In 2012, Aggreko became the biggest employer at Lomondgate, following the opening of its £22m manufacturing plant. Lomondgate is being delivered through a partnership between Strathleven Regeneration - the special purpose vehicle which was formed with the support of West Dunbartonshire Council, Scottish Enterprise and Diageo – and developers, Walker Group (Scotland) Ltd. www.lomondgate.co.uk
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DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • WINTER 2013
Business Gateway’s First Mobile App BUSINESS Gateway (BG) has launched its first first free business advice app for mobile devices. The 'MyBusiness' app will provide a new route to comprehensive information and advice for business owners and start-ups. The app has three main sections – one for those thinking about setting up a new business, another for people in the early stages of running theirs and one providing advice tailored to the needs of those growing or looking to grow their business. Each section provides users with a wide range of free business support guides, video tutorials and an events finder that shows a range of free workshops throughout the country, which they can then book, all from their iPhone, iPad or Android device. It will also set out task-based action plans through its reminder and personal planner system helping busy business people prioritise and complete tasks that can sometimes be overlooked or forgotten. To keep the process as simple as possible, users can choose one of the existing task lists on the app or create their own.
Hugh Lightbody, chief officer at the BG National Unit, said: “We know that business is done on the move more than ever now, so quick and easy access to important information and advice, literally at the touch of a button, is highly desired and valued by those running businesses as well as those thinking about it for the first time. “The ‘MyBusiness’ app has been designed with the direct input of business advisers who work closely with SMEs here in Scotland. “‘MyBusiness’ will continue to develop over the coming months with new features and additions and we'll be encouraging users to provide feedback or suggestions for further improvements.“ The app allows important information and guides to be downloaded to the user's device thus minimising the need for Wifi access or any form of mobile network. Business users can also ‘ask a question’ which will be answered by the BG Enquiry Team. They can request a free call back and BG will call at their chosen time and date.
Image courtesy of Business Gateway.
The ‘MyBusiness’ app is available from the iTunes App Store and was launched in autumn for Android phones.
DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • WINTER 2013
21
Supporting Business in West Dunbartonshire
Grow Your Business in West Dunbartonshire Business Gateway West Dunbartonshire
WHATEVER the stage of your business, whether you are thinking of starting one, are a new start or well established, West Dunbartonshire Council Business Support Team and Business Gateway work handin-hand to offer a comprehensive range of information, advisory services, funding and support initiatives to assist in the creation, development and growth of businesses.
ADVISORY and expert help services, workshops and events are offered for pre-start, start-up and established businesses in West Dunbartonshire through Business Gateway.
West Dunbartonshire Council manages Business Gateway which provides free services to all businesses, through a mix of information, advice and skills workshops across the local area.
The workshops have been designed to complement the enhanced range of grant and funding initiatives offered by the Business Support Team at West Dunbartonshire Council, and to help local businesses improve their applications.
The Council has a wide range of business support programmes which have been developed to provide financial investment to new and existing businesses with growth potential and businesses looking to relocate within the local area.
Recruiting, training and retaining staff is critical for business survival and growth. Find the right people at the right time and ensure their skills are kept up-to-date.
This funding package can include financial investment support in relation to capital investment, property improvements, training, exporting, innovation and job creation. In addition to the current range of loan, grant and support initiatives available through the Business Support Team, the council has pledged additional funding over the next five years through its Jobs Investment and Growth Framework to assist local businesses to sustain and grow employment opportunities in West Dunbartonshire.
Whatever your business needs, the team is waiting to help you.
Call Business Hotline
01389 737777
Workshops cover a wide range of standard business topics like finance, marketing and sales, bookkeeping, and increasingly, focus on harnessing the power of ICT and social media to make a real difference to the bottom line. Over autumn and winter 2013, Business Gateway is running a series of events aimed at helping local firms develop and grow through increased employment, turnover and operational efficiency.
Workforce Development
New Employer Series Employing someone for the first time can be daunting. Are you worried about the cost, red tape, how to pay them and even how to find them in the first place? Let Business Gateway walk you through the essentials.
Part 1 – First Steps for New Employers Part 2 – Keep It Legal, Keep it Safe Part 3 – Effective People Management Social Media for Business Develop a social media action plan to improve your sales. Learn useful skills to target clients and grow sales using social media for business. • Social Media Strategy • Facebook for Business • Twitter for Business • LinkedIn for Business
Drive More Profits from Your Website Make your website work for your business. Transform the profits your website can deliver using a range of easy-to-use tools for little or no added cost.
YOUTHOYMENT EMPL T GRAN 50% of wage costs for u p to 26 wee ks!
Get Your Business Noticed – Effective Media Relations Positive PR can be good for business but most can’t afford the high fees charged by large firms. Market your business to a wider audience and drive sales enquiries through effective media relations. Former BBC journalist and STV television presenter, Colin Kelly, will show you how. Expect invaluable insights into how to gain positive and profitable publicity. For more information on the full range of services from Business Gateway, give the local team a call at the number below or visit our landing page on the Business Gateway website. You can also get more detail on the content and scheduling of the new workshops and events, and register your interest in attending.
Business Support Team Economic Development Section West Dunbartonshire Council Council Offices, Garshake Road, Dumbarton. G82 3PU Tel: 01389 737777 e-mail: business.support@west-dunbarton.gov.uk web: www.west-dunbarton.gov.uk
Business Gateway Titan Enterprise, 1 Aurora Avenue, Queens Quay, Clydebank. G81 1QQ Tel: 0141 435 7560 e-mail: info@bgwestdun.co.uk www.bgwestdun.co.uk
Are you 16 - 24 years old and looking for a job? If so, we may be able to offer your new employer a grant! The aim of this programme is to provide a financial incentive to businesses to create new youth employment opportunities for West Dunbartonshire residents who would otherwise be unemployed/economically inactive. The subsidy can provide a grant to your new employer for a maximum of 26 weeks, covering 50% of the national minimum wage. Employers outwith the West Dunbartonshire area may also be eligible for this grant.
Photo courtesy of Andrew Lee Photography for Clydebank Re-built. www.andrewleephotographer.com
Titan Crane is Clydebank’s Eiffel Tower
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DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • WINTER 2013
Photo courtesy of Clydebank Re-built.
TITAN LANDMARK: (L-R) Professor Bill Banks, past president of IMechE; Mahida Kotb, president of ASME; Andrew Herrman, immediate past president of ASCE and Professor Barry Clarke, president of ICE.
THE huge Titan Crane in Clydebank has been designated an ‘International Historic Civil and Mechanical Engineering Landmark’. This puts it on a par with the likes of the Eiffel Tower in Paris, Sydney Harbour Bridge and Machu Picchu in Peru. It is also the first structure in the UK to be endorsed by all four engineering institutes - the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) and the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE). Four presidents of these leading engineering institutes (pictured) visited the crane and took part in a ceremony to celebrate the prestigious award. Hailed as an engineering triumph, the crane is one of only 13 of its kind left. It was the first giant electrically-powered cantilever crane constructed in the world. The 150 foot structure was designed by Adam Hunter, chief engineer for Sir William Arrol & Co, in 1907 at a cost of £24,600 and stands on the site of the former John Brown’s shipyard. Awarding the landmark designation, Andrew Herrmann, immediate past president of the ASCE, said: “The Titan Crane is a beacon among cranes as it influenced the development of many similar cranes across the globe. Its lifting power was instrumental in helping John Brown’s shipyard build the biggest battleships and liners in the world at the time, like the Queen Elizabeth and QE2.” In 2007, the crane was restored by Clydebank Re-built, the town’s urban regeneration company, as a heritage visitor and educational centre at Queens Quay, the site of the former shipyard. Provost Douglas McAllister, of West Dunbartonshire Council, said: “This award is a tremendous boost to our regeneration plans for the town and for our educational work here at the Titan promoting the proud heritage of shipbuilding and engineering on the River Clyde.”
BEST UNUSUAL VENUE GONG THE Titan Crane picked up yet another gong at the Scottish Event Awards for Best Unusual Venue on 26 September. It was up against five other nominees, including the House for an Art Lover, Edinburgh Zoo and Cabaret Voltaire, at a black tie gala dinner held in the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Glasgow. Claire McGinlay of Clydebank Rebuilt said: “It is great news to be rated as the ‘best unusual events venue’ and that award adds to the national and international awards the Titan has received in recent years. “The Titan is the only crane in the world that has been restored as a heritage and visitor attraction. It is now a known landmark on the Clyde for Clydebank, a symbol of the the town's proud shipbuilding past and icon for the town's regeneration.”
www.titanclydebank.com
DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • WINTER 2013
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Chamber Members Enjoy Titan Panorama DUNBARTONSHIRE Chamber members had a bird’s eye view of the area from the top of the Titan Crane at their re-launch meeting on August 29. Almost 60 members and guests enjoyed a spectacular 360 degree panorama from the iconic A-listed Clydebank visitor attraction’s 150 feet high viewing deck. Welcoming everyone, chamber president, Stewart Rennie, (pictured left) said: “What a great way to launch the start of a new chamber year with a visit to the historic Titan Crane. “The chamber is good for networking and good for commerce – if people give a little, they will get a lot in return. “Our programme for the coming year is interesting and fun and we hope to see you all at forthcoming events.” The event was hosted at Aurora House by urban regeneration company, Clydebank Re-built, which acquired the crane from private owners in 2004. Members heard from its project director, Alan Robertson, from Audrey McFarlane of Westfield Health and from Jack Rudrum of Youth Enterprise Dunbartonshire. The event also featured in The Herald newspaper’s social diary page.
Photos courtesy of Green Highlander Images.
www.clydebankrebuilt.co.uk
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CHRISTMAS LIKE THE FIRST TIME Relive the feeling at Cameron House
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www.devere-hotels.co.uk/cameronhouse | events@cameronhouse.co.uk Cameron House, Loch Lomond, Alexandria Dunbartonshire G83 8QZ
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We are one of Scotland’s leading independent financial service companies founded in 1964. We’ve built our business on trust developing sound, long-term relationships with our clients and we would be delighted to discuss how we could help you. Visit us at www.roxburgh-group.co.uk Glasgow 0141 952 0371
Troon 01292 314313
Stewarton 01560-485333
Roxburgh Group is the trading name of J C Roxburgh (Financial Services) Ltd , J C Roxburgh (Insurance Brokers) Ltd and J C Roxburgh(Properties) Ltd and are registered in Scotland under numbers 417019, 417217 and 073801 respectively. Registered Office 151 Glasgow Road Clydebank Glasgow Scotland G81 1LQ. Both J C Roxburgh (Financial Services) Ltd and J C Roxburgh (Insurance Brokers) Ltd are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
We are a small family run delicatessen and cafe, Daughter (Julie) and Mother (Lin). Been trading for five years, serving home cooked food, including full breakfast, tasty soups and made to order sandwiches and panini. All baking is home made including scones, carrot cake and thick caramel slice. Deli and grocery products are mainly sourced from Scottish producers and suppliers, along with a selection of ingredients for around the world.
Normal opening hours Oct - Easter 8.30am til 5pm Thursday to Tuesday, Closed on Wednesday. Easter to Oct 8am til 5.30pm. If you are planning a day in the great outdoors, pop into the deli to fuel up before venturing out or enjoy a well earned coffee and cake afterwards. Outdoor seating available, weather permitting, so enjoy a coffee or cold beer while watching the rest of the world go by.
10 Ancaster Square, Callander, FK17 8ED Tel: 01877 331220 email: deli.ecosse@yahoo.co.uk www.deliecosse.co.uk
Inchmurrin Island
The Ben from the Loch
The Botourich Apartment
The Balhama Apartment
Just a short ferry crossing from the mainland, Inchmurrin Island provides traditional hospitality in the form of a restaurant, bar and self-catering accommodation. A ferry service is provided for guests and several jetties are available for customers who have their own boats. Restaurant and Bar The restaurant and sun deck enjoy some of the finest uninterrupted views of Loch Lomond towards Boturich, Balloch and the hills beyond. Using only the finest and freshest local produce, traditionally prepared on the premises. Accommodation The self catering accommodation consists of three self catering apartments with uninterrupted views of Loch Lomond and one self catering cottage with its own private sun deck, garden & beach.
Inchmurrin Island, Loch Lomond G63 0JY • Tel: 01389 850245 • Fax: 01389 850513 email: scotts@inchmurrin-lochlomond.com • www.inchmurrin-lochlomond.com
Commercial Contract Hire available for: Bed, Bath & Table Linen Laundering Linen for: Hotels, B&B’s, Holiday Lets, Restaurants, Health Clubs and Hairdressers
Domestic Laundry & Dry Cleaning Service Wash SPEC Ironing OFFE IAL RS Equine Laundry AVAILAB Phon LE! e or Pet Beds webs check the it e detail for s!
Call Karen on T: 01389 721095 M: 077715 17446 Units 8 & 9, North St Ind Est, North Street, Alexandria, West Dunbartonshire G83 0EA
E: thelaundrylady@orangehome.co.uk
www.thelaundrylady.org.uk
‘Best Turnout Ever’ for Food and Drink Festival FEARS that the Erskine Bridge roadworks would have a negative impact on the Loch Lomond Food and Drink Festival in September were unfounded. The organisers reported their ‘best turnout ever’ on the Saturday although the Sunday was not as strong due to adverse weather. The eighth annual festival brought more than 18,000 visitors to the area for a weekend of great food, drink and entertainment. Newcomers Scozzese Wood Fired Pizza went down a treat and Waitrose was there to meet potential customers for its new Helensburgh store. Old favourites Chrystals Shortbread launched its business at the festival and come back every year with its products.
Photos courtesy of Loch Lomond Shores.
It had been predicted that there could be up to a one hour delay for travellers to the area as Transport Scotland introduced single lane traffic each way over the bridge to allow safety barriers to be replaced. Newly-installed traffic lights are also in operation on the A82/A898 slip roads and the works continue till May 2014.
Chamber president, Stewart Rennie, commented: “Around 40,000 vehicles cross the bridge every day and there are real concerns about the impact on local businesses and visitor numbers to the area. “However the feedback from our members to date has been that, apart from at peak rush hours, the management system is working well. We have asked ask our members to keep us informed on this important local issue so that we can lobby Transport Scotland on their behalf.” Transport Scotland said that the work could not be carried out at night due to low temperatures at and noise levels.
DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • WINTER 2013
29
Photos courtesy of Beverly Clarkson of West Dunbartonshire Council.
Masterclass for Young Dunbartonshire Entrepreneurs YOUNG Enterprise Dunbartonshire (YED) kicked off its new programme with a business coaching masterclass in Glasgow. Its first event of 2013/14 saw 130 aspiring young entrepreneurs from 10 Dunbartonshire schools working with volunteer business people to develop their skills. The YED experience allows S5/S6 age students to set up and run their own companies with the aim of developing their entrepreneurial abilities and an interest in how business works.
The event was supported by Bell Projects, Business Gateway, Chat Marketing, Grant Thornton, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, Polaroid Eyewear Ltd, Pricewaterhouse Coopers, RNLI, SEPA, Tescobank and the University of Strathclyde Marketing Dept. Anyone interested in helping the Young Enterprise Company Programme, should email the Dunbartonshire Area Board at yedunbartonshire@gmail.com or telephone 07901 515208.
First up was an inspirational presentation from young entrepreneur, Laura Ramsay, who talked about setting up and running her own business - Total Effect Personal Training. Laura emphasised the need do something you enjoy, to seize opportunities, to explore what client’s need, to learn from failure as well as success, and not to be afraid to ask for help. Pupils then took part in two coaching workshops where they learned about innovation, business planning, sales management, market research, risk management, finance, social media, environmental issues, teamwork and communications from volunteer business experts. In the afternoon mixed groups of students competed against each other in a business game which involved producing and marketing ‘aeroplanes’ over several simulated business periods. Competition was intense with varying degrees of success at responding to changing demand and supply situations. Although it was fun, the game required teamwork, communication and decision-making skills, plus the ability to respond to time and market pressures – all important in the real business world.
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DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • WINTER 2013
WHAT’S NEXT FOR YED? The Christmas Fair held jointly with YE Glasgow takes place in November in Glasgow. School companies market the products they have developed and produced to the general public and compete for the Dunbartonshire Best Fair Stand Award. Later, the school companies provide reports and presentations for the YED final review and awards ceremony on 23 April 2014. The best company will then represent Dunbartonshire at the Scottish finals in June.
Photo by Lynsey McCarthy, Glenhead Engineering.
Sustainability Success for Glenhead Engineering SUSTAINABLE IMPROVEMENTS: The Glenhead Engineering team celebrates its success.
CLYDEBANK-based Glenhead Engineering has increased turnover, reduced costs and tapped into new markets by making better use of its resources. Its success, plus a focus on high quality specialised products, has also created seven new jobs to enable it to cope with greater production demands. In the last 18 months, Glenhead has increased sales by 33 per cent, achieved a 44 per cent reduction in energy bills, despite price hikes, and has almost completely eliminated waste going to landfill. Glenhead improved its performance by working with a business adviser from the Crichton Carbon Centre’s Sustainable Process Improvement (SPI) programme. The fully funded initiative for small and medium-sized businesses is designed to help them reduce costs and stay competitive. This involves reviewing processes and identifying opportunities for implementing or improving sustainable business practice. The adviser ascertained Glenhead’s baseline carbon footprint and pinpointed resource efficiency ‘hotspots’ in its production process. As a result more than 50 areas for improvement were identified and included in a resource efficiency action plan.
Their effectiveness was then monitored and managed using industry standard sustainability software. Buy in to the changes by management and staff were crucial to their success. From the outset, Glenhead management committed itself to developing a resource efficiency policy and to building sustainability into everyone’s role within in the company. A ‘dashboard’ was placed in the canteen to allow staff to measure resource use against targets, to enable them to make their views known and suggest ways to make further improvements. Elizabeth Gilmour, administrator with Glenhead, said: “SPI has been great for us in terms of improving the quality of our products and our bottom line but also by fostering a positive attitude and sense of pride among staff who have come together to work on this common goal. “Glenhead has improved markedly thanks to SPI, for customers, staff and shareholders alike.” The SPI programme is open to SMEs in West Dunbartonshire, North Ayrshire and Dumfries and Galloway. For more information visit its website or call Angela Lamont on 01387 702347. www.sustainableprocessimprovement.co.uk
DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • WINTER 2013
31
The Fairways Funeral Plan
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This voucher entitles the bearer to a £50 discount off the retail price of a Fairways Funeral Plan.* Terms & Conditions: 1. This discount is solely redeemable by the presenter of the voucher, who may use it to purchase a plan for themselves or an immediate family member, but must be the person responsible for organising the purchase. The voucher may not be exchanged for cash. 2. The discount will be deducted from the retail price of the Funeral Plan purchased at time of sale. 3. Only one discount is available per transaction. 4. This voucher has no cash value and may not be used in conjunction with any other discount or promotion. 5. The decision in relation to each discount is final and binding. 6. *Subject also to the terms and conditions of the Funeral Plan purchased. 30/11/2013. MKT/13/014 7. This discount does not apply when paying for a plan by fixed monthly payments. 8. This voucher is valid until 31.12. 2011. MKT/11/076
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INcommerce DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
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ISSUE 21
• WINTER
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Photo courtesy of the Liberal Democrat party.
PARLIAMENTARY PRIVILEGE (L-R) Jo Swinson, MP; Robert Wilson; Ryan Barbour; Deputy Prime Minister, Nick Clegg and Scott Mathers.
Mr Wilson Goes to Westminster KIRKINTILLOCH businessman, Robert Wilson, and two of his apprentices met Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg at a Westminster reception in September. Jo Swinson, Liberal Democrat MP for East Dunbartonshire, welcomed the owner of Wilson Decorators and apprentices, Ryan Barbour and Scott Mathers, to parliament for the event. Apprentices and their employers had the chance to quiz the deputy prime minister during a question and answer session, as well as have their photograph taken with him. Robert, a former president of Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce, whose firm was named Scotland’s most trusted decorator in 2012 by Dulux Trade paint, said: “We were delighted to be invited to London to meet the deputy prime minister.
“They are a credit to themselves, their employers, and an asset to our businesses. “I want to see apprenticeships viewed as a much more mainstream route to work.” Jo Swinson added: “Robert Wilson has provided rewarding apprenticeship experiences in the local area for many years and Ryan and Scott spoke of how much they have benefitted from the experience. “Through apprenticeships young people are learning the skills they need for their future careers. “These young people are learning, not just in a classroom or lecture theatre, but in the working environment and they are getting paid for it – for employers, apprenticeships are incredibly useful in building up a loyal workforce.”
“While we were there we also met Baroness Garden of Frognal who is a government whip in the House of Lords.” The deputy prime minister talked about the crucial role apprenticeships had to play in job creation: “To see how much these young people have achieved through apprenticeships is inspirational.
DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • WINTER 2013
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CHAMBER member, Horizon Security Solutions is supporting the Soldier On project to make a difference to the lives of forces veterans who often find it difficult to adjust to civilian life.
Help on the Horizon Ex-servicemen go the extra mile to offer ‘outstanding’ training in security.
HORIZON Security Solutions was set up in 2012 by Paul Muir who, like his instructors, is ex-British military. The fast-growing Dumbarton-based company runs the whole spectrum of security courses at an affordable price, which is particularly attractive to those not eligible for forces resettlement grants. As well as supporting the Soldier On Project, the firm provides mentoring to ex-servicemen who are finding it hard to get back into work, helping them with their CVs and offering guidance on the best training courses to take. Paul, who served in the Parachute Regiment, says that 95 per cent of his students have found work since completing their courses with the firm. Many go overseas to Iraq or Afghanistan, or to safer officebased contracts in the Middle East.
With training facilities at Loch Lomond, Horizon runs a three-week comprehensive package, which covers close protection, first person on the scene, medicine in remote areas, and weapons competency. “We have been a training provider since 2012 and now we’re looking to move more into the operational side, taking on the people we’ve trained,” Paul explained. Horizon makes sure its students get all the training they need to be able to work in the UK or abroad, whether in close protection roles or in maritime security. “It is our mission to operate at the cutting edge of the private security industry…with an emphasis on working closely with our clients to achieve and develop an effective security strategy in response to their requirements.” The company’s reputation has spread far in a short time, with its instructors travelling to Bucharest and training 24 Romanians in the past year. Run as an ongoing joint venture with Man Power International to offer British qualifications to clients overseas, the level three close protection course covers everything from threat and risk assessment to incident management. On top of the foray into Eastern Europe, the firm has won a government contract to work with the Port Sudan police service and recently trained two Americans and some students from the French Foreign Legion. www.horizonsecuritysolutions.co.uk
Photos courtesy of Gary McLaughlin, Horizon Security Solutions.
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DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • WINTER 2013
Just the Job
Horizon Security Photo courtesy of
Solutions.
for Tom FORCES veteran Tom Johnston had been out of work since May when he met Sue White of Soldier On. His business teaching first aid had been wound up, he had sent off more than 200 CVs, filled out 40 application forms and worn out three pairs of shoes in his search for employment. It was a promotional video for the launch of the Glasgow Veterans Employment Programme in August that brought Sue and Tom together. The programme, which is backed by Glasgow City Council and forces charities, is the first of its kind in the UK. It pays a wage subsidy to employers who take on ex-servicemen and women as part of the most comprehensive package of support available to veterans anywhere in Britain. Tom, 53, was asked to talk about himself and his job hunt in the launch video which Sue was there to watch. “I was trying to get across not just for me but for all military veterans how difficult it is,” said Tom, who left the armed forces in 1996. Sue put him in touch with Gary McLaughlin, who had been an active member and mentor for Soldier On in Yorkshire. He now works with Horizon Security Solutions and helped Tom rewrite his CV. “He said I had to be more specific about my field of expertise,” added Tom. With a background in the Royal Army Medical Corps and, before that, 12 years in the Royal Highland Fusiliers, Tom had skills that Horizon prized.
Acknowledgement
He impressed Gary and Horizon managing director Paul Muir so much with his positive attitude, teaching background and initiative that they have now taken him on full-time as one of their tutors. “He is a good addition to the team,” said Paul.
This feature is an edited and updated version of one which appeared in the September/October 2013 issue of Equipped magazine. It is published with the kind permission of Equipped Media Group – a magazine and online publishing company whose sole purpose is to assist service leavers in finding jobs, relevant training and further education. The company is an official partner of the Regular Forces Employment Association (RFEA). www.equippedmagazine.co.uk
“They’ve helped me in every single aspect...and have lifted me off the ground,” Tom confessed. “Employers assume that soldiers don’t have qualifications but...we are used to working late, doing anti-social hours, and being loyal. We have experience, we’ve been there and done that.” Tom now wants to give something back to the Soldier On Project and has talked to Sue about becoming its ambassador in Scotland.
DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • WINTER 2013
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Soldiering On THE Soldier On Project was set up by army wife Sue White who witnessed her husband’s struggle with post-traumatic stress syndrome after he left the forces.
Although Sue subsequently separated from Carl, she is still passionate about getting ex-military personnel back on their feet.
The project has spread from its Yorkshire base, into the Midlands and Scotland, where Sue found Glasgow City Council very forward thinking, with its veterans employment programme.
The Soldier On Project finds training and work placements for its members and has business interests in catering, recruitment, security and event management. It also helps out with CV writing and job applications.
In addition, companies such as chamber member, Dumbartonbased Horizon Security Solutions, offers courses at reduced rates and then employment to some of those they have trained like former soldier, Tom Johnston. Sue wrote about her personal experiences six years ago in her book ‘Soldier On’ not realising that it would touch a nerve with so many people.
“Isolation is a massive problem when you come out of the forces and combating that is the biggest challenge.”
Dismayed at the lack of help available when her husband Carl had a breakdown, she tried to draw attention to the plight of servicemen and women when they leave the army. She thought no one would read her book but, after an appearance on the BBC’s One Show and articles in tabloid newspapers, she was inundated with similarly distressing stories.
Sue decided to set up the Soldier On Project, which she runs as a co-operative from a North Yorkshire base. Together with former soldiers and reservists, she used her military contacts to establish training courses. The aim from the beginning was to make things better for veterans, ‘by giving them a step up not a hand out’, focusing on self-help and responsibility.
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DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • WINTER 2013
It now has 3,500 members and Sue says growth has been ‘rapid’. In the past year alone, 120 people have been trained – in security, first aid, fire marshalling – and all for a cost of just £28,000. Sue admits she relies heavily on people helping out. “It’s not rocket science,” she explained, “vets understand each other – we just have to get them together and get them talking. “Isolation is a massive problem when you come out of the forces and combating that is the biggest challenge.” ‘Soldier On’ by Sue White is available from Amazon. www.soldieronproject.com
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Photo courtesy of Beverly Clarkson of West Dunbartonshire Council.
Businesses Wants Skills and Experience Gap Plugged Work Placement Helps Dylan Decide Future Career A WORK experience placement helped pupil Dylan Kennedy decide what he wants to do when he leaves school. The fifth year Our Lady and St Patrick’s High School student recently spent time in the Miller and Lowrie salon in Alexandria, West Dunbartonshire, and now knows that he wants to work in the hairdressing industry. Dylan commented, “It’s been a great experience so far and I have really enjoyed it. I have learned a lot and I am developing new skills. “All the staff have been brilliant with me and showed me how to do things and been really generous with their time. I now know that I want to work in the hairdressing industry and this placement and experience has helped me realise that.” Salon co-owner, Sandra Miller, (pictured above with Dylan) added: “Dylan has really pushed himself on during the course of his time here and you can really see the benefits of it. “We are always delighted to help out and support pupils from local schools, when we can. It’s good to see staff developing and passing on their skills and experience to a young person who is so keen to have a career in the industry.” West Dunbartonshire Council’s Employability Skills Programme relies on the support of local employers to allow senior pupils to experience the world of work and explore their interests and future career aspirations. It also helps with the transition from school into employment, training or further education and gives employers an opportunity to help shape the workforce of the future. For more information email Alan Shields at allan.shields@ west-dunbarton.gov.uk for Dumbarton, or Rachael Doyle at rachael.doyle@west-dunbarton.gov.uk for Clydebank.
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DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • WINTER 2013
ALMOST two thirds of businesses agree they should help young people gain skills and work experience. The vast majority feel they should be involved in addressing the need for improvements in work experience, vocational and practical education, and in getting young people engaged with employers. These are the findings of the latest Scottish Chambers of Commerce Skills Pulse Survey conducted in partnership with Skills Development Scotland and the University of Glasgow. Commenting, Scottish Chambers of Commerce chief executive Liz Cameron, said: “These survey results show that businesses recognise the importance of their role. “Lack of work experience and lack of technical skills at the craft level were the biggest issues employers identified when they reported finding vacancies hard to fill. “SCC recognises that improvements are taking place to the education and skills system to ensure that it better meets the needs of businesses. “For example, the roll out of the Certificate for Work Readiness provides young people who need some work experience to get them onto the first rung of the career ladder, with the opportunity they need. “Modernisation of Scotland’s careers services should provide all young people with realistic, up-to-date information about the opportunities available to them in the future, and the skills to make the most of these. “This survey shows, in findings that tie in with what businesses have been telling us recently in our Quarterly Business Survey, that employers are expecting to grow their staff over the next year. “With this expected increase in recruitment, it is therefore important, firstly, that improvements and modernisations are implemented swiftly. Equally important is that the education and skills system responds fully to employers, addressing both their concerns and their willingness to play their part.”
RICS Board Position for Chamber’s Nick Allan CHAMBER director Nick Allan (pictured) has been appointed to the Scotland Board of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).
“Chambers of commerce and the RICS have many identical objectives at the heart of their core activities, specifically the re-vitalisation of the economy.
RICS provides the world’s leading qualification when it comes to professional standards in land, property and construction and has more than 100,000 qualified members in all the major established and emerging economies across the globe.
“Major infrastructure projects, whether hospitals, schools, housing, transportation or energy related, will have RICS members involved at all key stages such as planning, design, procurement and construction.
Established by Royal Charter as an independent professional body in 1868, it is committed to setting and upholding the highest standards of excellence and integrity providing impartial, authoritative advice to business and society.
“Infrastructure is vital to the UK’s global competitiveness and is part of the government’s plan to boost the economy through the creation of growth and jobs.”
Nick said: “I am delighted to take up this new appointment. Since qualifying as a chartered surveyor over 20 years ago, I have benefited from the extensive range of professional guidance and support that the RICS provides to all members.
This brought together business leaders, local authority representatives, construction experts and politicians to explore how the public and private sectors could work more closely together to accelerate the delivery of infrastructure projects and unblock stalled schemes.
Photo courtesy of Murdoch Ferguson - Ferguson Imaging.
“As a Scotland Board member, I look forward to working on the development and implementation of the board’s ambitious three year activity plan.”
One of Nicks’ first duties as an RICS Scotland Board member was to take part in a round table discussion at the Liberal Democrat Party Conference in Glasgow.
DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • WINTER 2013
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ADVERTISING FEATURE
New Life in Clydebank
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Excellent Office Space syndicate of Glasgow businessmen has
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Indeed the premises were first let in 1980 at £4.00 p sq purchased Erskine House, a 27,000 sq ft 4 ft and the first tenant we get will be offered that figure storey office building in the heart of Clydebank for 3 years. Other buildings in the Park have been let at Business Park, opposite the Clyde Shopping Centre. £12.00 per square foot, so we are talking tremendous A spokesman for the group said “The building was value here.” 90% vacant so there was no bank finance available. Perhaps more important to tenants is the fact that the We were therefore, cash buyers and completed the new landlords are prepared to offer very flexible leases in purchase of the property at a deep discount. At the terms of lease length, break options and room to expand. height North of the market in 2007 the building was sold for 2DR Avenue Clydebank G81 In addition if a tenant wants to pay a little extra rental £3.5 million we have purchased this. 200- to 25,000 sqatfta fraction (19 toof 2,322 sq m) they will be excluded from any repairing liability which is This gives us an ability to fill the building by letting to most uncommon in modern leases. tenants at rentals probably unseen since the 1970s.
TO LET
Viewing
Erskine House
Neil Munro Neil Munro Property Consultants
neil@neilmunroproperty.co.uk T 0141 248 4447 M 07702 18938
MISDESCRIPTIONS ACT These particulars contained in this brochure are the use of these particulars is hereby excluded.
Erskine House
North Avenue, Clydebank G81 2DRRent 200 to 25,000sq ft (19 to 2,322 sqm)
only£4.99 per sq ft
Very Flexible Terms
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Another syndicate member advised that seed capital had been set aside such that if any of the young entrepreneurs have a viable proposal which needs a cash injection to allow it to flourish this could be made available. Within the syndicate there is a lot of business experience and the members will not be “absent landlords”. Young business people are usually very good at what they are trained for but have no experience in hiring or firing staff, obtaining legal or accountancy advice, opening or changing bank accounts or even making a pitch for new work. Between the syndicate members there is a wealth of knowledge in all of these fields and they will be happy to give suggestions or possibly more importantly just be available to listen. “At Erskine House we will not be asking new businesses to prepare business plans and they will not be subject to various committee approvals. From first viewing the premises, a tenant could be sitting at a desk within 24 hours and the agreements to lease will be written in a concise easy to understand form and be free of charge to the tenants.”
GLASGOW CITY CENTRE
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McManus Property Consultants
Accommodation
jonathan@mcmanusproperty.com T 0141 332 2822 M 07540 651 383
We can accommodate a wide range of requirements. Sizes from 200 sq ft Accommodation upwards. Each full floor extends to We can accommodate a wide range approx. 6,700 sq ft. of requirements. Sizes from 200 sq ft upwards. Each full floor extends to approx. 6,700 sq ft.
Singer train station
Clydebank Shopping Centre
Jonathan McManus McManusAProperty Consultants Singer train station
STAIR
Clydebank Shopping Centre
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One of the syndicate members has a historical jonathan@mcmanusproperty.com B connection with the site and commented “I was brought up quite close to Clydebank and my dad 85 T 0141 332 2822 MFirst07540 651 383 Floor worked at Singers when they employed 13,000 workers and the sewing machine factory occupied First Floor Typical Floorplan the entire estate. I remember an open day there C First Floor when I was about 8 or 9 and went to see where Typical Floorplan he worked. It was on the fourth floor and I think Typical Floorplan C believed to be correct, but cannot be guaranteed. All liability, for any loss arising from First Floor any negligence or otherwise it was possibly that visit when I determined that First Floor Publication date June 2013. I was not going to work in a factory. It would be really nice to help bring jobs back to Clydebank and in particular help start up new companies but make no mistake buying Erskine House was purely business!” STAIR
STAIR
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New Members CAMPBELL & KENNEDY
To join call 0141 280 0272
CAMPBELL & Kennedy (C&K) provides energy, fire, electrical contracting, installation and technical services to organisations throughout the UK.
SAFEcontractor, MCS and by the British Fire Consortium. This highlights the quality, workmanship and service that the business provides.
Established for the past 60 years, C&K is a leading provider of solar installation, electrical contracting, LED lighting and fire safety equipment installation and maintenance, communal television, CCTV and door entry systems. The company also provides planned and reactive maintenance for all of the above.
In addition to its headquarters in Scotland, C&K has recently expanded its operations with offices in England and Northern Ireland.
It counts many main contractors, local authorities and housing associations throughout the UK as part of its growing client base. C&K is accredited by various independent regulatory bodies, including Constructionline, SELECT, CHAS, RETRA, RECC, NICEIC,
GCM CREATIVE
GCM Creative is a design, advertising, marketing and promotions company based in Glasgow. Its creative team produces work which bolsters and enhances the sales, marketing and promotional strategies of large and small companies within many different business sectors across the UK. In designing for print, direct marketing, online and above-the-line marketing, GCM Creative counts companies and organisations like Holiday Inn Express, Ultimo Brands International, McKechnie Jess, Life Technologies, golf’s European Tour, ORE Catapult and Alzheimer's Scotland among its clients.
Facebook “f ” Logo
Campbell & Kennedy Ltd, Unit 11 Telford Court, 9 South Avenue, Clydebank Business Park, G81 2NR. T: 0141 435 7774 E: commercial@campbellkennedy.co.uk W: www.campbellkennedy.co.uk campbell.kennedy CMYK / .ai
Facebook “f ” Logo
CMYK / .ai
@ CampbellKennedy
GCM Creative prides itself on having a friendly approach to producing work for clients which gets results. It loves engaging creatively with companies to help them become more visible, more successful and more profitable. Managing director, George McKay, has more than 30 years’ experience in marketing, advertising and design. GCM Creative, 10 Wilson Business Park, 1 Queen Elizabeth Drive, Glasgow G52 4NQ. T: 0141 887 0407 or 07855 223039 E: george@gcmcreative.co.uk W: www.gcmcreative.co.uk
JOIN NOW TO ACCESS A RANGE OF BENEFITS INCLUDING:
WORKING FOR BUSINESS
•
Legal expenses cover up to £670,000 plus 24-hour advice line
•
Human resource service including ACAS compliant policies plus health and safety advice and updates
•
Saving on private medical insurance
•
Cost effective primary health plan with 10 benefits plus diagnostic scans
•
FREE business mentoring
•
Networking and events
•
Influencing and lobbying at local, national and EU levels
Can you afford not to join? Entry level membership at less than 40p a day is cost effective and excellent value for money. Download your application NOW at www.dunbartonshirechamber.co.uk or call our admin team on 0141 280 0272.
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Service • Reliability • Quality • Integrity One of Europe’s foremost non-destructive testing organisations. Inspection Ecosse Limited offer specialised Non Destructive Testing including Radiographic, Ultrasonic, Dye Penetrant and Magnetic Particle Inspections, with fully qualified technicians. We operate in all industries including: • Oil Refining • Petrochemicals • Engineering • Shipping • Power Supply • Food and Brewing • Non Destructive Testing A vital role in a variety of industrial, commercial and service applications. Inspection Ecosse Ltd., Unit 1D, Laurieston Industrial Estate, Old Redding Road, Falkirk FK2 9JU www.inspectionecosse.com
Tel: 01324 627 772
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Freedom and Success at Kilgraston SUPPORTIVE, ACADEMICALLY successful and consistently in the top three Scottish Schools at Advanced Higher, Kilgraston is a truly thriving community. Two years ago, Kilgraston in Bridge of Earn, with a balanced mix of day girls and boarders, was UK Independent School of the Year. Judges praised it warmly as “an example to other schools”. From the 45 leafy acres set amongst rolling hills, to the swimming, hockey and tennis academies, Equestrian Centre (the only school in Scotland with on-campus facilities) and now the current £1m investment in a state-of-the-art Science Centre, Kilgraston facilities look and feel world-class. Principal Frank Thompson says: “At Kilgraston, small is beautiful. With small class sizes, we are totally committed to individualised care. We know every one of our 340 girls extremely well. Staff know who needs a little extra help or who needs to be stretched a little further.” Kilgraston is part of the Sacred Heart network of schools and welcomes girls of all faiths. It has four sections: Nursery (ages 2½ to 5), Preparatory (ages 5–13), Senior School (ages 13–16) and Sixth
Form. Boarders love being here, this is clearly evident thanks to a warm and supportive atmosphere - Kilgraston girls are not only taken care of, they learn to take care of themselves and each other. Dr Leonard Sax, a world-renowned expert on the benefits of single sex education, held a seminar at Kilgraston last month and told parents: “Girls at single-sex schools are more likely to study computer science, physics, engineering and technology and participate in competitive sports than are girls in co-educational schools. “That’s because at the co-educational school, the focus is on how you look. But at the single sex school, the focus is more on who you are. The best possible thing you can do to help your daughter is to get her into a girls’ school.” www.kilgraston.com To visit Kilgraston, please call (01738) 812257. Tours of the school are available year-round.
Events Diary...
Step Forward and Stand Out Urges Business Leader
November
CHAMBER members should not be afraid to volunteer as it can lead to unprecedented opportunities.
Tuesday 12 November 12pm – 2pm
Chamber Business Networking Lunch Casa Italia, 1 Montrose Street, Clydebank G81 2JF.
“Don’t be afraid to step forward – if you do you will stand out,” urged Linda Urquhart, OBE.
£10 payable to restaurant. The former lawyer revealed that some of her biggest business breaks had happened as a result, including involvement with the CBI, which she ended up chairing.
This is the first of the chamber’s new business lunches. You told us that you wanted us to organise a working lunch and we have. Come along and network while enjoying a twocourse meal. All welcome.
She also extolled the benefits of networking, of making connections, of charity work, of seizing and making the most of opportunities.
Thursday 28 November 6pm – 8pm
Linda admitted to having a ‘low boredom threshold’, to liking variety and said she realised early in her legal career that she was more interested in management than in law.
Deals and Dealmakers – John and James Pirrie’s £62 Million Sale Success
She volunteered for some management training – and ended up running the firm as its chief executive for almost 12 years, she told members of Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce at their September networking lunch.
The Eagle Lodge, 2 Hilton Rd, Bishopbriggs, Glasgow, G64 2PN. Members £20 + VAT Non-members £30 + VAT James Pirrie
“Some of the most effective networkers are the quiet people who build relationships. Create a network that is unique to you. “You meet people and find they are able to offer you advice. I surround myself with experts. If you’re a one-man band, it is your virtual board of directors. “The chamber is excellent way to meet people and to influence policy making with good accessibility to politicians at Holyrood.”
Hear about the secret of their success, about how they grew the business from a standing start into one with 200 employees and five depots around the UK including London and Portsmouth. John and James won Deal and Dealmakers sale of the year award for LCH Generators and were entrepreneur of the year award finalists with the Entrepreneurial Exchange in 2006 and Ernst & Young in 2003.
Photo courtesy of Green Highlander Images.
Nor are they resting on their laurels – they are now partners in Nevis Capital LLP, with David Bell, former operations director of LCH Generators, and Brian Aitken, ex corporate finance director with PricewaterhouseCoopers. NETWORKING: (L-R) Chamber president Stewart Rennie with Linda Urquhart, OBE, and chamber finance director Mark McRae.
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Photo courtesy of Nevis Capital LLP.
Linda said she was involved in a lot of networks in her various roles and they were a valuable resource: “Never write somebody off – establish a rapport, make a relationship with them.
Brothers John and James Pirrie of Milngavie set up LCH Generators Ltd in 1980 – in 2006 they sold the business to Speedy Hire PLC for £62 million.
DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • WINTER 2013
John Pirrie Photo courtesy of Nevis Capital LLP.
“If you volunteer, you learn a lot and get a lot in return,” she said, “Don’t just join, join in.”
Nevis Capital is a private equity firm with a track record of successfully growing businesses. It invests across the industrial services sector with a specific focus on power and currently has five companies on its books.
January Wednesday 22 January 12pm – 2pm
Thursday 14 November 4pm – 6pm
Business Benefits from Tourism – Malcolm Roughead, Chief Executive, VisitScotland
West Dunbartonshire Means Business – Meet the Buyer
Venue TBC
Denny Civic Theatre, St Mary’s Way, Dumbarton G82 1SG.
Malcolm Roughhead
Members £20 + VAT Non-members £30 + VAT
FREE Don’t miss out on the chance to meet buyers from across West Dunbartonshire Council. This event is targeted at the West Dunbartonshire business community and, in particular, at small businesses. It is being run in conjunction with Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce, the Federation of Small Businesses, Scotland Excel and construction framework providers, West of Scotland Hubco, SCAPE, and many more... Local firms will also be able to access business advice, network with other organisations and find out how to bid for business. It is an informal event so feel free to visit anytime between 4pm and 6pm.
December Thursday 19 December – 12pm – 3pm
Chamber Annual Christmas Lunch Cameron House, Loch Lomond, Alexandria G83 8QZ. Members £30 + VAT Non-members £40 + VAT
Tourism has a significant impact on other industries in Scotland – the visitor economy is now worth £11bn with potential to influence growth across all business sectors. As chief executive and director of marketing with VisitScotland, Malcolm Roughead, knows that a strong visitor economy positions Scotland on the world stage and helps drive exports and investment. He will explain why every tourism/visitor experience has the potential to be a business deal. Malcolm was with Guinness World Records as global sales and marketing director before he joined VisitScotland in May 2001. He was appointed chief executive in 2010. He lived and worked in London, Germany and South Africa before returning to Edinburgh where, in addition to being chief executive, he is responsible for the UK and Ireland, international, visitor services and business tourism divisions within VisitScotland. Malcolm was awarded an OBE for services to tourism in 2006 and was Scottish Marketer of the Year at the Scottish Marketing Awards in 2004. He is a Fellow of both The Institute of Direct Marketing and of The Marketing Society in Scotland.
Celebrate the festive season at the annual chamber Christmas lunch. Join chamber directors, fellow members and guests for seasonal fun, a delicious meal and informal networking. Book early to avoid disappointment!
to book chamber events Call our events team on 0141 280 0272 or e-mail admin@dunbartonshirechamber.co.uk Please note that full payment is required in advance and cancellations made less than three working days prior to the event are nonrefundable.
DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • WINTER 2013
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Events Diary... Business Gateway – East Dunbartonshire
Monday 11 November 9.30am
Improve Your Search Engine Ranking Tuesday 5 November 9.30am – 12.30pm Milngavie Enterprise Centre Wednesday 6 November 9.30am – 12.30pm McGregor House, Kirkintilloch
Tips to drive more traffic to your website. Tuesday 12 November 9.30am
First Employee – Part 3 – Effective People Management
Start-up Awareness
Get the most from your employee.
For budding entrepreneurs to find out more about starting their own business.
Thursday 21 November Time TBC
Thursday 20 November 9.30am – 12.30pm
Use the media to grow your business.
Social media
Get Your Business Noticed! Thursday 21 November 6pm
Milngavie Enterprise Centre
Your First Website
How to use social media for business.
Hands-on training to help build your business website.
Wednesday 4 December 9.30am – 12.30pm
Friday 22 November 9.30am
Bookkeeping
Twitter for Business
McGregor House, Kirkintilloch 9.30am – 12.30pm
Increase business using Twitter.
Manage your business finances effectively.
Monday 25 November 9.30am
To book call 0141 578 8530 or visit www.edbusiness.net.
Transform Your Website Performance Tools and tips to make your website more effective.
Business Gateway – West Dunbartonshire
Thursday 28 November 9.30am
Thursday 24 October 9.30am
Recruitment.
First Employee – Part 1 – First Steps
Tuesday 3 December 9.30am
Recruitment.
Training, Apprenticeship & Skills
Wednesday 30 October 9.30am
Find out how to develop your staff.
First Employee – Part 2 – Keep It Legal
Thursday 5 December 9.30am
Employment.
First Employee – Part 2 – Keep It Legal
Thursday 31 October 9.30am
Employment.
Social Media Strategy
Friday 6 December 9.30am
An in-depth one day workshop.
LinkedIn for Business
Monday 4 November 6pm
Increase business using LinkedIn.
Get Real Results from Your Website Transform your website. Friday 8 November 9.30am
Facebook for Business Increase business using Facebook.
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DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • WINTER 2013
First Employee – Part 1 – First Steps
All workshops are held at the Titan Enterprise Centre, 1 Aurora Avenue, Clydebank G81 1BF. To book your free place call 0141 435 7560 or visit www.bgwestdun.co.uk.
Space to be themselves, learning together.
Strong academic results Equestrian and sporting academies Continued investment New Science Centre opens in August
Kilgraston, Bridge of Earn, Perth PH2 9BQ Telephone: 01738 812257. Fax: 01738 813410 email: headoffice@kilgraston.com www.kilgraston.com Kilgraston School Trust is a charity. Scottish Charity Number SC029664