INcommerce
THE Lanarkshire CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
ISSUE 18
LANARK IS FLYING HIGH TOWN WITH A DISTINGUISHED PEDIGREE
AFTER THE STORM AN IN-DEPTH ANALYSIS OF LANARKSHIRE BUSINESS PERFORMANCE
LEISURE & PLEASURE SCOTLAND’S PLAYGROUND
…AND MUCH, MUCH MORE ABOUT THE COUNTY THAT MEANS BUSINESS
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Contents Welcome...................................... 3 News in Brief................................ 4 A distinguished pedigree............ 10 Lanarkshire map of featured towns........................... 17 Scottish culinary expert’s ingredients for success............... 18 Beatson Cancer Charity scoops wind farm cash............... 21 University of the West of Scotland.................................. 22 New members........................... 26
CHIEF EXECUTIVE’S WELCOME
Prestige Garments is flying high.. 36 I didn’t get where I am today..... 39 Ask The Professionals................. 40 The Political Column.................. 42
Lanarkshire Chamber of Commerce Suite 4, West Stand New Douglas Park Cadzow Avenue Hamilton ML3 0FT t: 01698 426882 f: 01698 424699 e: info@lanarkshirechamber.org
For advertising contact DTech on T: 0141 222 2202 E: sales@incommerce.biz Editorial management by Blueprint Media www.blueprintmedia.co.uk E: incommerce@lanarkshirechamber.org
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ello and welcome to the autumn 2015 latest edition of In Commerce, the magazine of the Lanarkshire Chamber of Commerce. Inside, we continue our highly-praised series on Lanarkshire’s principal towns – to comprise, when completed sometime in 2017, 12 in total – with an in-depth look at Lanark, medieval royal burgh and historic focal point of our county. As usual, we celebrate entrepreneurial activities in Lanarkshire with stories on three new start-up businesses handsomely supported by Business Gateway, a roundup of new Chamber members and commentary on a range of important topics: one from an environmental expert, and another from a hard-working local politician with Lanarkshire’s best interests at the heart of all he does. Lanarkshire business energy is a potent brew which should be bottled and sold at premium prices: we talk to Kevin Griffin, MD of East Kilbride business, Logic Systems about his pride in being chosen as vice President of SELECT, the trade body which represents the electrotechnical industry in Scotland. He also provides us with an insight into the global possibilities which exist for young Scotland-trained electricians and the economy’s need for yet more of them. We also carry a feature which contains some fascinating in-depth analysis from a
local accountancy practice on how well Lanarkshire’s businesses have been doing since the end of the great economic recession which, as most of us are all too aware, started in 2008. The good news is that our businesses are steadily emerging from the downturn, leaner, meaner and, it is to be hoped, wiser. We highlight also the important infrastructural development which is the expansion of the freight railhead at Mossend which will help further to boost exports from Lanarkshire, both to other parts of the United Kingdom and to continental Europe. In addition, we welcome enlightening contributions from key sponsors and stalwart Chamber supporters, SSE and Southern Financial Services, as well as news and views from the high-flyers at UWS, Lanarkshire’s own university. Finally, and as ever, we like to emphasise that this is your magazine and we want to hear your opinion of it: are we covering the stories you want or should we cast our news net further afield? Are there other topics on which you need to be informed? Please let us know. We love to hear from you.
Neil Kennedy Chief Executive, Lanarkshire Chamber of Commerce.
Publisher: DTech Distribution: DTech Distribution InCommerce is published by DTech. Suite3.3, Station House, 34 St Enoch Square, Glasgow G1 4DF. Telephone 0141 222 2202. E-mail: info@dtechuk.com. Editorial management by Blueprint Media www.blueprintmedia.co.uk. E: incommerce@lanarkshirechamber.org InCommerce is fully protected by copyright and nothing may be printed wholly or in part without the written permission of the publishers. The proprietors of this magazine are publishers and not agents, or sub-agents of those who advertise therein. They cannot be held liable for any loss suffered as a result of information gained from 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, nor the publisher or the directors, shareholders and/or employees of DTech Publishing Ltd.
The Chamber is grateful to our partners for their financial support.
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SUGAR-DIET: new diet from Rutherglen entrepreneur............ 34
Lanarkshire CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
Leisure and pleasure................... 28
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Lanarkshire businesses have weathered the storm but many are still struggling David Charles, business development manager at Cambuslang-based accountants and business advisers ad+, has been taking a look at the figures THIS IS HIS ANALYSIS Since the start of 2008, most businesses reacted to the Great Recession by cutting expenditure, including making some employees redundant and freezing wages for those retained. The effects are clear in the data we have examined: profit margins were hit, but are recovering; numbers employed declined, but are recovering; wages, however, remain frozen in most cases when measured in real terms. Freezing employee wages has restricted consumer spending, which has prolonged the period of weak demand and never-ending “SALE� signs.
UK politicians are eager to point out that our recent our GDP growth compares favourably with other developed countries. Meanwhile, ambitious entrepreneurs seek ways to grow their business, but most continue to be frustrated by tough trading conditions. Since the start of 2014, there has been increased market demand available to those businesses that have survived but profit margins remain constantly squeezed and slow payment by B2B customers has resulted in cash-flow concerns and time wasted in chasing payment. Although bank debt is cheap, most business owners have avoided bank borrowing, preferring to self-finance their businesses. This
financing decision has made the business less risky, but it has also put a damper on growth. In most cases, we have reached a point where business expenditure cannot be cut any further: production and administration systems have been refined or automated and the numbers employed and hours worked have been kept as low as possible. As a result, many business owners have focussed on increasing turnover. Winning additional market share has not been easy, especially as the majority of other business owners are trying to do the same thing because they have also reached the point where they cannot cut any more and must grow. Reviewing the accounts data for local companies identifies the real trading picture, and separates gossip from fact.
Chart 1
Profit margin % 50
(Pre-Tax Profit/Turnover)
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1 13 25 37 49 61 73 85 97 109 121 133 145 157 169 181 193 205 217 229 241 253 265 277 289 301 313 325 337 349 361 373 385 397 409 421
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PROFIT MARGINS Forget waiting for things to get back to normal. “The good old days” are gone, probably forever. Internationally, return on capital has been shrinking for many years. Low wages in the developing world, competition intensified by the internet, increased capital demands and ever-more stringent regulatory requirements of being in business, have been the main factors driving down returns. For example, half of local companies earn single-digit pre-tax profit margins; a quarter lost money. Thankfully, there are some exceptions – a quarter of local companies earned double-digit pre-tax margins. Individual company results are not directly comparable since they are not measured at exactly the same year-end date. The series of results do demonstrate, however, the variation in profit margins of local companies. (Chart1).
Company number NB This chart refers to the most recent year of accounts data. -20
Chart 1 (above) shows the Profit Margin of 430 local companies, based up on their most recent annual accounts data. This simple measure of Profit Margin % is calculated as Pre-Tax Profits/Turnover. Each company result is shown by an individual point on the line. In order to reduce distortions caused by extreme results, the top 5% and the bottom 5%, of results have been removed from the chart data. All data was collected on 18th July 2015 from the MINT database of publicly-available company records.
Chart 2
Turnover % change 70
60 50
40 30
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Company number This chart refers to the most recent year of accounts data.
Chart 2 (above) shows the year-on-year change in turnover of 303 local companies, based upon their most recent annual accounts data. Each company result is shown by an individual point on the line. In order to reduce distortions caused by extreme results, the top 5% and the bottom 5%, of results have been removed from the chart data. All data was collected on 18th July 2015 from the MINT database of publicly-available company records.
Lanarkshire CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
DAVID CHARLES Business Development Manager at ad+
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LANARKSHIRE’S BUSINESS STARS It’s time to meet our business stars. Despite all the odds stacked against them, a small number of business owners carefully managed their businesses to increase turnover every year and deliver a pre-tax profit every year. After sifting through the all the published accounts data, we have selected three local companies as exemplars: one operates in construction, another as a car dealer, and the third as a van and truck rental business. New results from a global-company survey confirm both the tough trading conditions, and the fact that our stars have delivered exceptional results. Although they are the world’s top 500 companies, they grew turnover by only 0.5%, and profit margins were only 5%, during the past year under survey. Business teams thrive during the periods of dynamic growth, like that experienced by our stars. International business leaders recognise this, and are no longer willing to remain victims of economic conditions. In a recent interview, Mario Longhi, President and CEO of U.S. Steel, commented: “…life is bigger than staying alive – people have a right to thrive, and companies have a right to thrive.” Let’s be inspired by Lanarkshire’s business stars and use the remainder of 2015 as our launch pad for greater results and stronger organisations.
5%
1 8 15 22 29 36 43 50 57 64 71 78 85 92 99 106 113 120 127 134 141 148 155 162 169 176 183 190 197 204 211 218 225 232 239 246 253 260 267 274 281 288 295 302
INCREASING TURNOVER Although it is encouraging to see so many companies achieving growth, it is sobering to note that 29% of local companies suffered a decline in turnover, according to their most recent accounts data. Combining higher profits with increased turnover is the starting point for building a great company, and a combination that should reward employees and shareholders. Unfortunately, only a small proportion of local companies achieve this double-success. (Chart 2).
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lans for an international rail freight terminal at Mossend, by Belshill, to be known as the Mossend International Railfreight Park, or “MIRP” has been approved by the Scottish Government. The development which PD Stirling, the company behind the project, believes will create up to 4,900 jobs in the construction and operation phases, represents a major boost for Scottish and especially Lanarkshire businesses delivering their products to customers in the rest of the UK and abroad. Local objections to MIRP centred on its use of greenbelt land but ministers took the view that the potential economic and environmental benefits of the project outweigh the loss of greenbelt. The development will create a modern strategic rail facility with connections to the rest of the UK and Europe as a result of the construction of an expanded Railhead which will comprise 775m of sidings of international standard and 2.2m square feet of onsite storage, distribution, service and logistics facilities. In addition there will be a new access road to the north of the site and a network of community greenspace. David Stirling, a director of PD Stirling, said that the new rail freight hub will help take large lorries off local roads and
provide a more sustainable alternative for companies which need to transport their products. He said: “We are delighted with this decision as it will open up new opportunities for rail freight and sustainable low-carbon logistics in Scotland. “MIRP will create a major new rail freight facility and help to secure new investment and economic activity both in Lanarkshire and across Scotland. “MIRP will be able to compete favourably on cost with road transport, extend choice and support the sustainable movement of goods to and from Scotland. “We recognise that there has been some local concern but are looking forward to working with residents to put in place locallysupported management for the proposed community woodland which will include walkways, woodlands and cycle routes.” A spokesman for the Scottish Government said: “Mossend, along with Coatbridge and Grangemouth, is identified as an important interchange in the central belt. “Ministers welcome the potential economic benefits as well as the opportunity to enhance transport and green infrastructure in the local area.”
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New North Lanarkshire rail freight terminal finally gets go-ahead
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HR Services Scotland asked to advise local companies over multi-million pound Hub South West contracts
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anarkshire Chamber member HR Services Scotland, a leading provider of human resources, employment law and health and safety services across the UK, has been appointed to deliver support to Hub South West, the major public sector infrastructure programme in South West Scotland. The alliance means that HR Services Scotland, which specialises in trusted professional advice, will work with companies in the region to bring them up to speed with the complexities of the current employment environment. Its support and guidance will empower SMEs in the region to interact more efficiently with Tier 1 contractors who are delivering hundreds of millions of pounds worth of public sector projects across the area. HR Services Scotland, which operates with more than 150 clients in England, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland as well as the Central Belt of Scotland, is engaged on a 10-week programme to work with the companies who want to join the Hub South West Supply chain. HR Services Scotland managing director Andy Purdon said: “The Hub is a massive programme backed by the Scottish Government through the Scottish Futures Trust. It has 18 participants, including local authorities, ‘blue light agencies’ such as fire and ambulance, health boards and housing associations. “It is a standalone business with all these different stakeholders, aimed at procurement which ensures that, within the massive budgets for building new schools and medical centres, the Tier 1 contractors have to spend 65% of turnover with local SMEs.”
“By the end of the programme, the local companies will be ‘fit for purpose’ to deal with the Tier 1 contractors” The Scotland-wide hub programme is aimed at delivering highquality sustainable public buildings and improving services for local communities as well as delivering operational savings and improving
property asset management. Hub South West covers all areas throughout Ayrshire, Dumfries & Galloway and Lanarkshire. Its programme brings in external providers to add value and look at various aspects of the potential supply chain companies’ businesses. Mr Purdon is working with them to bring them up to speed on HR and other employment matters. He said: “By the end of the programme, the local companies will be ‘fit for purpose’ to deal with the Tier 1 contractors in these very important projects which will help to shape the future of the region.” HR Services Scotland, which employs 11 people and is actively recruiting as it continues to expand, specialises in HR, H&S, employment law and profiling. It has a small, but fast-growing training business.
Lanarkshire electrician Kevin is appointed Vice President of SELECT “Training new electricians is critical to the Scottish economy; the recession saw a steep fall in the numbers undergoing apprenticeships and an alarming gap is emerging between industry needs and the available pool of skilled expertise”
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ounder director of East Kilbride-based Logic Systems Kevin Griffin has been appointed Vice President of SELECT, the representative body of the Scottish electrotechnical industry. His vice presidential term will run for two years after which, all being well, Kevin will take up the Presidency of the highly-regarded trade body. An electrician to trade, Kevin, 54, trained at Motherwell College and worked for Chubb Fire and Security Services before forming Logic Systems which focuses largely on commercial security and alarm systems for companies which have ranged from privately-owned nursing homes to major organisations including ICI, Rolls Royce and Lanarkshire Chamber of Commerce sponsor, SSE. He said: “I have been active in the Lanarkshire branch of SELECT for a number of years now and am greatly honoured to have been elected Vice President. “It is generally recognised that an electrical contractor who enjoys SELECT membership is the right person to be carrying out electrical work; it is a badge of quality because it means that anyone who holds it is judged by their peers to be highly capable in meeting demanding quality standards in building and electrical work. “SELECT members undertake regular, practical training updates, as well as a range of support in areas such as health and safety and financial management as well as in such practical issues as building safe and effective scaffolding.” As well as serving with SELECT, where his principal focus is on maintaining high standards of training for apprentices, Kevin is also active in the Fire & Safety Association and acts as this body’s Scotland representative on its technical committee. He said: “A particular interest of mine is in the training of apprentice electricians. Once a youngster, male or female, can demonstrate that they have the aptitude for the work, they can set out on a career path that, once qualified, can take them anywhere in the world.” “Training new electricians is critical to the Scottish economy; the recession saw a steep fall in the numbers undergoing apprenticeships and, as experienced baby-boom generation electricians begin to retire, an alarming gap is emerging between industry needs and the available pool of skilled expertise. Happily, the numbers of Scottish apprentices is now steadily rising. “Our Lanarkshire youngsters go through a four-year apprenticeship scheme with day release at Motherwell College. One of my roles is to oversee the course, on behalf of SELECT, and to help ensure that the highest standards of quality and technical knowledge are applied consistently.”
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Photo: Mike Wilkinson Photography.
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Cover story
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St Nicholas Parish Church.
A distinguished
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pedigree
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View of Lanark High Street.
Lanark’s roots are in the past, but it is a town with a bright future
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The picturesque hamlet of Dalserf in the Clyde Valley near Lanark.
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any towns in Lanarkshire have a fascinating backgrounds, ranging from the fiery furnaces of the industrial revolution to the white heat of today’s technology, but few have the distinguished pedigree of Lanark, the Royal Burgh from which the county takes its name. While other communities which InCommerce has featured in this space grew out of Victorian enterprise or even the post-war social revolution, Lanark traces its roots back to the 10th century, when it became the home of the first Scottish parliament. Two centuries later, a blink in the timeline of the town, King David I made Lanark a Royal Burgh, one of the first of a series of new towns he created to encourage trade, complete with market-side feus for merchants whose layout can still be seen on the High Street. A condition of the Royal charter stated that the merchants of the town must inspect their boundary stones each year. Lanark claims to have carried out this duty every year since then in what has evolved into the Lanimar celebrations. Nestled in the prime agricultural land of the lower Clyde Valley, Lanark’s venerable buildings are a source of fascination for 21st century visitors. St Kentigern’s Church, one of the few remaining Scottish buildings of the 13th Century, is where William Wallace was married and Lanark Castle is where the Scottish patriot first drew his sword. The town has remained at the core of Scotland’s cultural and commercial life over the centuries, a classic market town serving the needs of the surrounding farming communities and developing craft trades such as weaving and shoemaking.
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The coal and steel-based industry which made the fortunes of other towns in Lanarkshire passed Lanark by but, curiously, it was chosen for one of the most important social and industrial experiments of the 18th and 19th centuries – an experiment which reverberated around the world.
The economic wellbeing of a town can often be discerned from its High Street and, on that criteria, Lanark is clearly in rude health Built in 1799 as a cotton-spinning village, New Lanark – just over a mile from the town centre – became the biggest mill in Scotland, and continued manufacturing cotton for nearly 200 years until 1968. Its significance, though – apart from its dramatic position near the Falls of Clyde – lay in the transformational management principles of Robert Owen, who introduced unheard of reforms, including
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Sculpture commemorating Scottish International Aviation Meeting in 1910.
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The imposing Lanark Memorial Hall and, below, a welcoming list of Lanark’s attractions.
as well as supportive national chains such as Boots and Wetherspoons. “The group is active in running various campaigns to raise the profile of the town’s business network, including Totally Locally, which is aimed at making people think about spending money in the town, which is then recycled into other businesses.” Lanark, however, also boasts its fair share of major employers, such as Borders Biscuits, founded in 1984 by John Cunningham, son of a family of biscuit-makers. Originally a tiny factory with four employees and hardly any machinery, it is now a Scottish institution, exporting around the world.
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The town has remained at the core of Scotland’s cultural and commercial life over the centuries, a classic market town
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vastly improved working conditions, humane working practices and education. Now beautifully restored, the old mill buildings are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting visitors from around the world – not only a tribute to Owen’s world-altering social philosophy, but also once again a major employer in the town. The economic wellbeing of a town can often be discerned from its High Street and, on that criteria, Lanark is clearly in rude health, with a vibrant selection of independent traders, speciality shops and well-patronised restaurants and cafes. The smaller, local traders are well represented by the Lanark Business Group. Group secretary Steven Laing said: “The local economy is strong, and capable of attracting business to the town. “The Lanark Business Group comprises not just retailers, but a wide spread of services companies, all with their own, unique offering,
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Stunning Victorian gothic architecture in the Clyde Valley near Lanark.
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Based in South Faulds Road, it has built sales of more than 100 million biscuits a year, employs in excess of 100 people and has a turnover of more than £11.5 million. Awarded Biscuit Company of the Year in 2012, it recently has run a major TV advertising campaign voiced by actress Jane Horrocks. Most famous for its dark chocolate ginger biscuits, of which it sells 24 million a year, Borders Biscuits is now prominent in just about every UK supermarket chain and leading wholesaler. Featuring various shortbread and oat-based recipes, with flavours ranging from strawberry and cream to toffee apple, the newest range
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New Lanark.
Lanark traces its roots back to the 10th century, when it became the home of the first Scottish parliament goes by the title of “Gourmet Goodness” and features mostly oat biscuits with added seeds, dried berries and nuts. Another brand which has sent its name around the world from its Lanark base is Glenmuir, a family-run business producing
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Historic Dalserf Church.
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the finest golfwear. The Provost’s Lamp on the Its distinctive clothing has High Street. been worn by champions at Augusta, winners of the Claret Jug, Ryder Cup teams and on the world’s leading courses. Like Lanark itself, Glenmuir has a proud heritage. The first crafted knitwear came off looms established in 1891 in nearby Kirkfieldbank by local businessman Andrew MacDougall. Legend has it that Mr. MacDougall’s first work force initially consisted of five women – all called Mary. As befits a centre of agricultural enterprise, Lanark is also home to the Lanark Auction Mart, a modern, purpose-built centre run by Lawrie & Symington Ltd. The Mart hosts regular livestock auctions and machinery sales on a 37-acre site. With two main auction rings, it can accommodate 2500 cattle and 14,000 sheep, with an area of three acres under one roof. It also hosts the Scottish National Tractor Show each September. Lanark looks to the future as well, with companies such as Martin Aerospace, a highly successful specialist engineer, established in 1993 and now a strategic manufacturer of quality-critical components. Its customers are some of the biggest and best names in the aerospace industry, gained and retained through consistent sustained performance on quality and service. Lanark may have its roots in the past, but its business vision is firmly focused on the future, with enterprises which have proven viability and sustainability. King David, who wanted to foster enterprise and trade, would be proud.
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Statue of William Wallace above the door of St Nicholas Church, made by Robert Forrest of Carluke.
LANARKSHIRE
Where we have featured
InCommerce is more than halfway through a series profiling Lanarkshire’s principal towns. So far, as the map indicates, we have shone the spotlight on East Kilbride, Hamilton, Cumbernauld, Motherwell, Airdrie, Strathaven and Coatbridge. If you would like to access any of these profiles you can do so online through the Chamber’s new website.
Where we will be featuring
Lanark will be the focus of the next issue of InCommerce so please get in touch via email incommerce@lanarkshirechamber.org if you would like to see your business considered for inclusion.
INcommerce ISSUE 13
INcommerce
THE Lanarkshire
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
THE Lanarkshire
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
BUSINESS MAGAZINE
CUMBERN AULD A POSITIV E FUTURE
BUSINESS MAGAZINE
ISSUE 17
INTO A DIGITAL FUTURE
LANARKSHIRE’S IT PRIDE NEW BRAND AND WEBSITE FOR CHAMBER
Linking-up Lanarkshire’s roads Lanarkshire’s confident companies News from UWS
INcommerce
THE Lanarkshire
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
BUSINESS MAGAZINE
ISSUE 15
THE IRON BURGH
AIRDRIE
A PROUD HISTORY,
ISSUE 17
Agriculture a growing concern
ISSUE 15
INcommerce CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
CWR getting youngsters ready for work
CUMBERNAULD
ISSUE 22 THE Lanarkshire
LOOKS TO THE FUTURE
ISSUE 13
A GREAT FUTURE
BUSINESS MAGAZINE
ISSUE 14
AIRDRIE COATBRIDGE
BELLSHILL
INcommerce ISSUE 11
ThE Lanarkshire
ChAMBER OF COMMERCE
BUSINESS MAGAZINE
EK-OK
MOTHERWELL
ride Eas t Kilb foc us on
ISSUE 14
WISHAW
ISSUE 19 EAST KILBRIDE
also inside Get HMRC to pay your ion business for innovat Investing in our young people’s future in Life sciences drive Lanarkshire
HAMILTON
INcommerce
LARKHALL
THE Lanarkshire
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
BUSINESS MAGAZINE
ISSUE 18
LANARK IS FLYING HIGH
ISSUE 11 STRATHAVEN
INcommerce
THE Lanarkshire
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
TOWN WITH A DISTINGUIS HED PEDIGREE
LANARK
AFTER THE STORM AN IN-DEPTH ANALYSIS OF LANARKSHIRE BUSINESS PERFORMANCE
LESMAHAGOW
BUSINESS MAGAZINE
LEISURE & PLEASURE
ISSUE 12
HAMILTON PROUD HISTOR Y, VIBR ANT PRESEN T
• Procurement – are you getting your share from local government? • New era dawns for your Chamber of Commerce
SCOTLAND’S PLAYGROUND
THE QUEEN’S AWARDS
…AND MUCH, MUCH MORE THE COUNTY THAT MEANS ABOUT BUSINESS
Lanarkshire’s excellence in exporting
ISSUE 18
INcommerce ISSUE 16
THE Lanarkshire
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
THE TOWN WITH A SMILIN G FACE
ISSUE 12
BUSINESS MAGAZINE
WORKSHOP COUNTY
ENGINEERING SPECIAL + LOTS MORE INSIDE
STRATHAVEN SPECIAL
ISSUE 16
ISSUE 20 ISSUE 21
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News Scottish culinary S expert provides businesses with ingredients for success
cotland’s leading luxury food, drink and culinary travel operator has launched specialist “tasting” events and away days for the corporate market that utilise Scotland’s bountiful larder. The expert-guided tours and “foodie” events offered by Tasting Scotland aim to help businesses impress clients and reward staff by offering “behind the scenes” access to artisan producers and top tables at Michelin star restaurants.
Owner Brenda Anderson, Scotland’s Ambassador for the World Food Travel Association, spotted a gap in the market for the corporate service after hosting a food tourism roadshow for the hospitality and catering industry earlier this year. She said: “For the past three years I’ve showcased Scotland’s electrifying larder to visitors from Russia, America, Australia and Europe. Seeing how they engage with the producers and chefs on the tours made me realise that a creative, hands-on experience could also benefit business.” Brenda has created two distinct corporate packages that can be tailored to individual needs: • Multi-stop away day – the trips can incorporate a range of activities including team building, meeting award-winning food artisans with in-situ tastings, cooking with professional chefs, whisky blending and convivial dining from a pier-side crab shack to Michelin star restaurants,
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• The “Deliciously Different” tasting event – held in iconic venues, this option includes a range of options including traditional cheese and wine tastings as well as whiskies paired with food scientifically analysed to match.
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A matter of taste: Brenda Anderson of Tasting Scotland.
Both packages allow Tasting Scotland, which has been endorsed by Michelin star chef Andrew Fairlie for helping put the country on the map as a real culinary destination, to champion Scotland’s outstanding natural larder during VisitScotland’s Year of Food & Drink. Brenda, from Rutherglen, said: “Food and drink is at the heart of our culture, identity and heritage. Traditionally, dining was the focal point for bringing together families and, in the same way, we are helping bring together colleagues and businesses. We are letting them recharge, reconnect and refocus. Eating is often part of corporate events but when, as a Scottish business, you have such an incredible larder sitting right on your doorstep, it makes sense to use it to its full advantage.” Brenda came up with the idea for Tasting Scotland after enjoying “foodie” tours of New York City, Italy, Spain and Peru. She launched the luxury food and drink travel business in 2012 and has been supported extensively by Business Gateway. For more information on Tasting Scotland visit: www.tastingscotland.com
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Proven specialist business support when you need it Knowing your business is ready to grow is one thing; putting in place a strategy to manage that expansion can often be quite another – and that is where our expertise can help. At Business Gateway Lanarkshire we know exactly what needs to be done to take your business to the next level. Our team of advisers, many of whom have run their own business or held senior positions within industry, have helped hundreds of businesses to do just that. So if you are looking to grow your business through the development of new products, by increasing your market share or creating a partnership or joint venture with another business we are here to help. Expert Support Looking to take on staff? Improve your SEO? Or seek assistance with tendering? Our Expert Surgeries address the key issues that matter
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to local businesses. Running for an hour in The Atrium Business Centre, Coatbridge, the surgeries provide 1:1 advice on specific business issues. If you have identified a new market or specific business issue that needs addressed our Expert Advisory Programme service can provide you with analysis, recommendations and a detailed action plan to help you achieve your goals. The comprehensive support package is tailored to your needs and covers a wide range of topics, including: exporting, internationalisation, market development, innovation, R&D, e-business and website development, and also sector specific advisory help in areas such as retail. Delivered over a number of days, the in-depth assistance has already helped numerous local firms focus their efforts to achieve success.
Getting it right For East Kilbride-based Mediaspec, a leading reseller and installer of audio, video and storage solutions to the education, music, television and film post production sectors, our help provided the clarity it needed to grow. “We have found Business Gateway to be extremely helpful in the evolution and growth of our company,” said Eric Joseph, Managing Director. “The business support provided on a 1:1 basis and through events has proved beneficial in establishing the direction and focus of our company’s growth ambitions. Business Gateway is a resource that we appreciate, and we are grateful for the role it has played in our development.” To find out how Business Gateway Lanarkshire can help your business grow – and for a full calendar of Expert Surgeries – visit www.bgateway.com/lanarkshire or call 01236 884 825.
Your business is amazing… … isn’t it a shame no-one can see it here? ED
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Beatson Cancer Charity scoops wind farm cash A creative wind farm manager has raised £5,000 for Beatson Cancer Charity in Glasgow, by recycling old weather testing equipment was involved, I just thought outside the box a bit and I’d definitely encourage others in the energy industry to do the same to allow more charities to benefit.” Megan Stobo, corporate and events manager at Beatson Cancer Charity, said: “We are thrilled Jim has taken the initiative and come up with this great way to support charity, and we are very grateful that he has chosen Beatson Cancer Care as one of those to benefit. All funds raised will help the charity provide specialist posts including nursing, radiography, physics and research-based staff as well as contributing towards enhanced medical equipment, innovative service developments, novel research projects and educational initiatives to support the 8000 new patients who attend The Beatson and its satellite locations each year.” Megan and Jim also paid a visit to SSE’s Clyde wind farm near Glasgow for a tour of the 350 MW site.
Lanarkshire CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
im O’Brien’s day job means being outside, battling the elements on rough terrain to make sure SSE’s wind turbines keep up safe and efficient generation of renewable electricity. Jim buys and sells the right equipment for the job and recently spotted an opportunity to trade unwanted weather masts in a move to raise money for charity. The £10,000 proceeds were split between Glasgow’s Beatson Cancer Charity and the Highland Hospice in Inverness. Jim, from Cumbernauld, who is a site construction manager with SSE, said: “My family has been affected by cancer in the past and The Beatson in Glasgow is well known as one of the best cancer treatment facilities in the world. I saw that something a bit unusual could be done outside SSE’s supply chain with these weather masts and just made sure it happened. It was an obvious win-win for SSE, who no longer needed the masts, and also for Beatson Cancer Charity, which was delighted to see benefit. Nothing radical
“My family has been affected by cancer in the past and The Beatson in Glasgow is well known as one of the best cancer treatment facilities in the world.” Jim and Megan at SEE’s Clyde Wind Farm.
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Retired Lanarkshire businessman receives Hon Doc from UWS U
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Lanarkshire CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
niversity of the West of Scotland (UWS) honoured retired Lanarkshire-born businessman Les Hutchison with an Honorary Doctorate at its graduation ceremony on 1 July 2015 at the Town House, Hamilton. Les is an alumnus of the University, graduating from the former Bell College (now UWS) in 1974 with an HNC Electrical Engineering and also completing a Higher Supplementary (HS) in Control Systems and Mathematics in 1975. After further education and experience, he became an Incorporated Engineer. Early in his career Les worked with a number of engineering companies in Lanarkshire, gaining experience as a Project Engineer within the oil and gas sector before progressing as a Production Director in the field of longwall mining and tunnelling equipment. During his career Les gained a reputation for turning struggling companies around, and for a time ran his own consultancy business helping companies to grow and diversify. Les was headhunted by Canadian energy services group ShawCor Ltd in 1998 and remained with the company until he retired as Vice Chairman in 2013. In 2002, while at ShawCor, he was appointed a GlobalScot by the then First Minister Jack McConnell, and became very active in supporting Scottish companies trying to enter the US market. Alongside his career Les has engaged in a variety of philanthropic activities, helping charities and other worthwhile causes across the globe. Les is the founder and patron of the Saltire Foundation, an organisation founded and nurtured by
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Les Hutchison at the Town House, Hamilton.
a global network, whose mission is to find, fuel and spark the next generation of business leaders in Scotland. Les donates annually to the Marie Curie Hospice in Glasgow, where there is a ward named after his late father who died from cancer. He also provides on-going support to the Maggie Centre, at Monklands Hospital in Coatbridge. In 2012 Les became involved in supporting Silverton House in Hamilton which is a respite centre for handicapped children and their families. Now living in Barbados, Les continues to have strong ties to his home country and in January this year bought a 75% share in Motherwell Football Club which he plans to transfer to its fans. Les has strong links with the University, supporting the University’s Mechatronics programme, delivered at its campus in Lanarkshire, and providing the annual Hutchison Prize for the best performing student on the programme. Les Hutchison said: “I am very honoured and humbled by this award from the University. The University is a leader in innovating and adapting education needs for the future to ensure Scotland prospers. I fully support the work of the University and wish it and my fellow graduates every success in the future.” Professor Craig Mahoney, Principal & Vice-Chancellor of University of the West of Scotland, said: “We were delighted to award Les Hutchison, who throughout his career has made such an important contribution to Scottish industry and society, with an Honorary Doctorate. It is great to be able recognise the contribution Les has made both professionally and philanthropically with this award.”
“Scotland has to compete on the international stage and deliver quality, memorable experiences to visitors who come with each new wave of tourism – from China, the Middle East and countries closer to home” right. Expectations are high and the STA strongly encourages initiatives that will positively assist in helping nurture and further develop the leadership skills of our senior managers and those of our emerging talent.” The MSc International Events Management and MSc International Tourism Management courses at UWS are taking applications now for September entry. More details are available at www.uws.ac.uk/pg
Lanarkshire CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
cotland’s £10billion hospitality sector is set for a boost after the launch of two master’s degrees aiming at improving the skills of those already working in the industry. The country’s first work-based master’s degrees in international tourism and events management have been designed by University of the West of Scotland (UWS) to address concerns about a lack of formal training among many of the 175,000 people working in the industry. As such, those enrolling in the new courses will be able to combine their work with their studies, with two projects to be delivered over the duration of the year-long courses relating directly to their job. Dr Daniel Turner, senior lecturer in events and tourism at UWS, said: “Many people working in hospitality in the UK entered the industry before there were specific qualifications in this area – and these individuals can now be in very senior positions. They now find themselves contending with increasing numbers of people with degrees in related fields, especially from competing countries and regions. “However, there is a problem in the industry in finding spare time for employees to gain qualifications and improve
their skills. By delivering a work-based approach to meeting these skill gaps, we have given our tourism leaders of today and tomorrow the opportunity to bolster their skills without having to affect their employer or business.” He added: “Those gaining the qualification won’t just be versed in current best practice – they’ll be able to say ‘this is what the big opportunity will be in future years and this is how we take advantage of it’. This will be key to helping the events and tourism sectors in Scotland reach new heights.” Marc Crothall, CEO of the Scottish Tourism Alliance (STA) said: “Strong and effective industry leadership at all levels, across all sectors is required if we are to deliver the growth ambition in Scotland’s tourism strategy. We need everyone working in the industry to step up to be a leader in their own area of expertise and qualifications such as these will help meet that aspiration. “Scotland has to compete on the international stage and deliver quality, memorable experiences to visitors who come with each new wave of tourism – from China, the Middle East and countries closer to home.” He added; “Opportunities are there to create ambassadors for Scottish tourism from all over the world if we get it
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Work-based qualifications in tourism and events to develop future leaders of tomorrow S
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UWS welcomes Ethiopian Ambassador T
he Ethiopian Ambassador H.E. Mr Berhanu Kebede recently visited University of the West of Scotland (UWS) during a two-day trip to Scotland on Tuesday 16 and Wednesday 17 June 2015. The Ambassador was accompanied by three of his Embassy staff – Mr Berhane Fisseha, Minister Counsellor, Political and Economic Affairs; Mr Demeke Atnafu Ambulo, Minister Counsellor, Diaspora Affairs; and Gail Warden, Press Officer at the London Embassy – during his visit to the University on Tuesday 16 June. The visit, which was arranged by Professor John Struthers of the University’s School of Business and Enterprise, saw the Ambassador meet members of the UWS Executive Team. During the two day visit to Scotland, the Ambassador and his colleagues met with a number of organisations such as the Scottish Council for Development and Industry, Scottish Development International, the Scottish Government, as well as the Ethiopian diaspora living in Scotland. Professor Craig Mahoney, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of UWS, said: “We were delighted to welcome Ambassador H.E. Mr Berhanu Kebede and his colleagues to UWS. We hope that this visit will further strengthen the strong ties that exist between UWS and Ethiopia.” This visit to UWS follows the recent appointment of Professor John Struthers as the Honorary Consul for Ethiopia in Scotland. As Honorary Consul, Professor Struthers will assist Ethiopia to increase its trade and investment links with Scotland, encourage
educational and cultural exchanges and assist the London based Ethiopian Ambassador to interact with the Scottish Government, civic society, and the business community. This appointment is partly based on on-going research work that Professor Struthers conducts with other UWS colleagues in the economics of commodity price volatility, and in particular commodities such as coffee, one of Ethiopia’s major exports. As an economist, Professor Struthers is especially keen to highlight the major strides that the Ethiopian economy has made
As an economist, Professor Struthers is especially keen to highlight the major strides that the Ethiopian economy has made over recent decades
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Lanarkshire CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
Mr Kebede, centre, on his visit to UWS.
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over recent decades with its recent high level of economic growth and major infrastructural improvements. These include the huge Renaissance Dam project around the Nile waters; the recently launched Addis Ababa light railway; and the major expansion in the country’s road and rail network aimed at improving transport links between Ethiopia and Djibouti, and its major port. In addition, the country has recently witnessed massive expansion in the number of new universities. These developments, along with the huge potential that Ethiopia has in the area of cultural and religious tourism, means that this is a particularly important period for the country.
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he Lanarkshire Chamber of Commerce is the premier business representation organisation in Lanarkshire, fighting always to improve the business climate for Lanarkshire-based businesses both big and small. The Chamber is your organisation and we greatly welcome new members to help give us an even stronger voice where it matters.
It’s easy to join and, with a range of benefits, from networking events, export documentation support and any number of events, membership is a must for all Lanarkshire businesses. Have your business appear in our new members’ slot, which we will be carrying in each issue of this magazine, by contacting Anne Kennedy at the Chamber on 01698 426882.
CANAPE CANAPE is a registered charity which provides practical experience in the catering industry for vulnerable young people. It offers also therapy and mentoring services. CANAPE’s catering ranges from basic buffets to high end Italian Truffle Canapés. The company was short listed at Scotland’s Food and Drink Excellence Awards 2015 for its ‘Scottish Curried Goat’, which is being developed into a packaged product with the help of its young volunteers. Contact CANAPE at: www.canape.org.uk, email: jane.canape@hotmail.co.uk. The Coo Barn, Langloch Farm, Lanark, ML11 9TA.
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P-BLOCK is a provider of specialist environmental and sustainability services to businesses which need to meet public procurement requirements or to meet environmental permit requirements Its services include: environmental management systems and auditing, environmental permit support, certification and accreditation support, algal bloom and weed control in lakes and reservoirs, waste management and zero waste, noise and energy management and agricultural support. Contact Keith Brady, CEO for more information on 07896 237020, pblockinfo@gmail.com, www.p-block.co.uk.
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Staffplan Staffplan specialises in employment solutions for companies by taking care of their HR and administration management, including payroll, employee benefits packages, employment law cover and HR advice. It provides also a complete Auto Enrolment pensions solution and cover tailored to employees’ needs. Businesses which partner with Staffplan, gain access to its completely integrated services from a one-stop provider which aims to secure its customer’ peace of mind as well as saving them money and time. For more information, visit www.staffplanplc.co.uk.
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Torrance Hotel The Torrance Hotel is located in The Village, East Kilbride. Dating back to the latter part of the 18th Century, the building was originally a coach house. It has recently undergone a major refurbishment and now boasts a revitalized restaurant and lounge bar with a state of the art conservatory, two function suites, 16 luxurious bedrooms and a new Honeymoon Spa. It offers weddings, corporate events, live entertainment and luxurious, relaxing breaks. Contact info@thetorrancehotel.co.uk or 01355 225241.
Based in south-east Glasgow, Carnegie Construction was founded in 2003. It specialises in the health care sector and has completed a number of nursing homes throughout Scotland. The company also builds luxury flats and does specialist restoration works on churches. With ten staff and growing, the company sees its membership of the Chamber of Commerce as a means of growing its contact base and bringing in new business. For more information on Carnegie Construction, call 0141 556 5566 or email carnegieconstructionscotlandltd@btconnect.com.
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Evans Halshaw Evans Halshaw Ford Motherwell is located on Windmill Street, near Motherwell Football Club. Its showroom stocks a range of Fords, including the all new Ford Focus, KA, Fiesta, B-Max and C-Max. See for yourself the incredible advanced technology Ford has to offer, including SYNC 2, Active Park Assist and Hands-Free Tailgate. Ford also offers a wide variety of Motability offers on a range of vehicles, all available with nil-advance payment. Contact Evans Halshaw on www.evanshalshaw.com or telephone 01698 244200.
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e r u is Le e r u as e pl
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Lanarkshire CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
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Lanarkshire has an abundance of riches when it comes to relaxation
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t says something very positive about Scotland that, in the early stages of the 21st century, leisure has become a cornerstone industry. Relaxation and pleasure are key consumer demands, and a lot of very hard-working people devote themselves to other people’s play. Some 32 million overseas visitors – equivalent to half the UK’s population – made their way to the British shores in 2014, up 600,000 on the previous year and the highest number since 2008. The leisure industry is particularly important to Scotland. The latest figures, from 2013, indicate a visitor expenditure in Scotland of around £9 billion, split fairly evenly between overnight and day visitors. This spending generates £10 billion of economic activity in the wider Scottish supply chain and contributes £5 billion, or 5%, to Scottish GDP. Employment in the tourism-related industries sector was 211,200 in 2013 – around 8.5% of employment in the country. But it is not just tourists who are spending their hard-earned cash in the leisure sector. As the recession eases, locals increasingly have
Lanarkshire is abundantly endowed with opportunities for pleasure-seekers to indulge in a huge variety of indoor and outdoor activities
M&D’s Amusement Centre in Strathclyde Country Park.
Speedboat activities in Strathclyde Country Park.
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a discretionary spending capability and are keen to explore and patronise quality leisure enterprises in their own area. Lanarkshire is abundantly endowed with opportunities for pleasure-seekers to indulge in a huge variety of indoor and outdoor activities, as well as revelling in a cornucopia of culture, history and entertainment. The county is home to two world heritage sites, New Lanark and the Antonine Wall, as well as VisitScotland four- and five-star visitor attractions including Chatelherault Country Park, Summerlee Museum of Scottish Industrial Life, the National Museum of Rural Life and Low Parks Museum.
Lanarkshire CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
At the heart of outdoor activity, however, is Strathclyde Country Park, which lies in 400 hectares of the valley of the River Clyde. Set within beautiful surroundings, the park is one of the most popular family attractions in the central belt of Scotland, with thousands of visitors each year. Last year, the park’s internationally renowned watersports area, based on the excellent facilities of the Watersports Centre and Strathclyde Loch, played host to a number of Commonwealth Games events, including the Triathlon, with cycling and running on the surrounding roads and pathways. At the north end of the country park is quite a different type of leisure activity, and certainly a lot brighter and noisier – M&D’s amusement complex. Now recognised as Scotland’s Theme Park, M&D’s is unique in Scotland. It has five terrifying white knuckle rides, more than 20 children’s rides, 18-hole miniature golf, “Glow in the Dark” indoor bowling and a massive indoor complex including a gigantic soft play area, bars and restaurants. One of the major attractions is Amazonia, Scotland’s only indoor tropical rainforest, packed with exotic animals, birds and insects. The road that winds along the lower Clyde Valley towards Lanark is a gardening enthusiast’s dream, with a huge selection of garden centres and nurseries which evolved out of the fertile area’s long history of growing soft fruits and tomatoes.
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an d e r u Le is ure ple as
The pretty village of Rosebank in the lower Clyde Valley, with the Popinjay Hotel on the right.
One of the many garden centres in the lower Clyde Valley.
Lanarkshire can make it a pleasure with 34 parkland and moorland courses – at least one for every town of any size in the county. Indeed, sports of all kinds are catered for by private facilities such as the Virgin Active health club at Hamilton, which has a gym, spa and pool and includes classes such as Zumba and Pilates. Excellent municipal facilities are also provided by North and South Lanarkshire Councils, with modern leisure centre pools in places such as Hamilton, Wishaw, Lanark, Strathaven and Larkhall, to name but a few. A poignant reminder of the county’s proud heritage in the boxing arena stands at the cross in Newmains – a statue in tribute to local hero Jim Murray, who tragically collapsed in the ring while fighting for the British title in 1995. Football has always stirred the passions in Lanarkshire and the thousands who follow the beautiful game are in the fortunate position of having two long-established local clubs competing in the top flight. Motherwell stayed in the Premiership table after a play-off victory over Rangers and Hamilton Accies are also fighting it out at the highest levels of the game.
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Lanarkshire CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
Statue in Newmains of boxer Jim Murray, who collapsed in the ring while fighting for the British title in 1995 and later died.
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The road that winds along the lower Clyde Valley towards Lanark is a gardening enthusiast’s dream, with a huge selection of garden centres and nurseries Like many parts of Lanarkshire, it has excellent country pubs, such as the Popinjay Hotel in the picturesque village of Rosebank, said to be built near the site of the popinjay archery contest in Sir Walter Scott’s novel Old Mortality. The Scottish Equestrian Centre, the UK’s largest riding holiday centre, has been providing exciting horseback adventures for more than 28 years at its splendidly-equipped facility just south of Lanark. The centre, which also has its own four-star B&B, caters for both adults and children, with a variety of equine activities including inn-toinn trail riding, castle tours, pony camps for children and tuition and hacking for riders of all levels. With memories of the Open Championship at St Andrews in July, golfers of all abilities will be keen to improve their game and
The Scottish Equestrian Centre, the UK’s largest riding holiday centre, has been providing exciting horseback adventures for more than 28 years For those for whom sport hold less of an attraction than culinary indulgence, the good news is that Lanarkshire is not only home to the Tunnocks teacake – star of the Commonwealth Games opening ceremony – and Irn Bru, but also a plethora of first-rate local producers.
Gate sculpture at Scottish Equestrian Centre.
Clyde Valley Tomatoes is bringing tomato-growing back to the region; Ramsay’s of Carluke specialises in bacon curing and quality butchery; Lanark Blue is a staple of the cheeseboard; Simple Simon’s Perfect Pies are cooked to perfection in Biggar; and ice-cream makers such as Soave’s of Muirhead and Equi’s of Hamilton supply delicious desserts. Restaurants abound in Lanarkshire’s towns, from small familyrun enterprises to gourmet standard establishments which stand comparison with anything else in the country, including British, Greek, Indian, Chinese and Italian cuisines. Add to the mix a diverse and exciting range of independent and national shops in which customers can indulge in retail therapy, and the spectrum of leisure activities in Lanarkshire is wide indeed. After all, a county which puts so much energy and enthusiasm into work is entitled to the best when it comes to play.
Hayley Connolly leads Lorna Mitchell on Khai at Scottish Equestrian Centre.
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Lanarkshire CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
Riders at Scottish Equestrian Centre.
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New Business New diet provides Rutherglen entrepreneur with the sweet smell of success
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Lanarkshire CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
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hen super-fit Stefanie Roberts suffered a serious injury she never imagined that it would provide her with the business idea she’d always dreamed of. The 26-year-old personal trainer from Rutherglen thought her health and fitness career was over when she ripped her rotator cuff which resulted in a frozen shoulder. Wracked with pain which meant she couldn’t even sleep, the MSc graduate became depressed, lost her toned physique and, although she followed a healthy diet, began to put on weight. Determined to get herself back into shape, whilst unable to exercise, she spent two years perfecting a new diet that focused on limiting the amount of sugar she consumed and quickly she regained her figure. Buoyed by her own success, and with the help of Business Gateway Lanarkshire, the former Scotland under 19 netball player launched SUGAR-DIET in December to help others shed unwanted weight. She said: “I went from being extremely active to being unable to even put my hair up without excruciating pain. I became depressed and wondered if I’d have a normal life again. Then I decided to do something about it and started to examine the sugar content in food. Through extensive research I began to group different foods together to create a range of breakfast, lunch and dinner options. I don’t believe in fad diets so all of the recipes contained real food and no juicing. I was conscious that I wanted to keep the sugar content low but still provide nutritious and healthy meals so carbohydrates such as pasta, rice and potatoes are still included as carbs aren’t the enemy to weight loss – sugar is. “Although I was still unable to exercise I tested the programme on myself and discovered that within seven days I had more energy, lost weight and felt so much happier with myself. The results made me want to share what I had discovered and help other people.” She added: “Since school I always wanted to start my own business. Initially I thought it would be personal training but my injuries put paid to that so helping people online seemed the perfect answer. I went to Business Gateway as they are specialists in helping people get started. They challenged me to answer all the difficult questions that I could easily have ignored if I had started up
on my own. They ensured my business plan was spot on and that helped me get off to a great start.” Elaine Kerr, Business Gateway Lanarkshire, said: “Stefanie’s drive and determination have helped her overcome severe injury and provided her with new goals. We helped her complete her business
“As more and more people accept that sugar, and not fat, is contributing to the global obesity problem I want people to realise that it is possible to cut down on sugar, without depriving themselves of tasty, healthy food” plan and financial projections, and worked with her to perfect her sales pitch prior to appearing before a panel at Youth Business Scotland who subsequently awarded her a £3k loan. General information on business bank accounts and HMRC registration was
people to realise that it is possible to cut down on sugar, without depriving themselves of tasty, healthy food.” She added: “The programmes I have created are all personalised to the individual’s weight, goal, likes/dislikes and lifestyle. Every client is provided with a brochure full of recipes to their taste, a weekly “cheat” meal is allowed and they are provided with their own personal coach who is available 24/7. With all of our programmes you buy it once and you have it for life which is why we provide free after care. I’m genuinely passionate about helping others be happy and confident in themselves; if I manage to help others to achieve their goals I will be pleased with that.” SUGAR-DIET offers four tailored programmes – the 90-day fat burner, Wedding Body Burner, 1:1 Personal Training & Nutrition, and Home/Gym Exercise & Nutrition programme. For more information visit: www.sugar-diet.com To find out how your local Business Gateway office can help you set up and develop your own business visit www.bgateway. com/lanarkshire or call 01236 884 825. Alternatively visit www.bgateway.com or call 0845 609 6611.
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also provided and she benefited from attending eight of our free workshops.” Getting herself back into shape may have spurred on her entrepreneurialism but Stefanie knew that her story alone wouldn’t be enough to convince people that the SUGAR-DIET worked so she set up a control study with 20 volunteers – 10 followed the SUGARDIET and the remainder a healthy eating programme. In just three months, and with all 20 clients allowed a “cheat” meal each week, those that followed the SUGAR-DIET lost a collective 492lbs, an average of 4lbs a week, while those on the healthy eating programme lost 243lbs, an average of 2lbs per week. Since finishing both programmes all 20 clients have maintained their weight loss. Stefanie said: “The largest, individual weight loss on the SUGARDIET was three stone in three months – dropping from 12 to nine stone. Our lightest client in the study was 8 stone 10lbs. She lost 10lbs in one month and we then maintained her weight as she had reached her goal. That is what the diet is about – achieving and sustaining your ideal figure. As more and more people accept that sugar, and not fat, is contributing to the global obesity problem I want
Lanarkshire CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
The taste of success: Stefanie Roberts and her SUGAR-DIET.
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A strong future: Richard McNicol of Prestige Garment Solutions.
Prestige Garments is flying high
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Lanarkshire CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
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umbernauld-based Prestige Garment Solutions, which manufactures the RAF Red Arrow team’s wet weather suits, has launched its own range of Arc protective clothing for the utilities industry. Set up by Richard McNicol and Chris Robb in 2012, the leading clothing manufacturer unveiled its Arc Protective Clothing range in March this year. With more than 20 years’ experience designing and manufacturing personal protective clothing, the duo believes the Arc Protective Clothing range offers outstanding quality and performance while delivering significant cost savings when compared with the costs of leading brands. Already the full range of waterproof high visibility, anti-static, flame retardant jackets, trousers, work wear and under garments manufactured in its Wardpark East factory are being trialled by three leading utilities companies. Richard said: “We sell direct to our customers. This allows us to offer a clothing range manufactured in the UK that is not only outstanding quality but value for money. “The initial idea for Arc arose after a leading UK utilities provider asked if we could develop a more cost effective, high quality version of their current garments. The range needed to meet the high safety and certification standards required while working in high voltage environments. “What we have produced is exactly what they were looking for, and they are one of the companies trialling our brand.” Since launch Prestige has doubled the size of its factory and taken on three additional staff. With famous brands such as Gore-Tex on its
books, Prestige has gained a reputation for highly skilled staff capable of producing quality products. As well as manufacturing garments for leading brands, Prestige has just secured a manufacturing contract with Wearable, the UK’s leading supplier of wheelchair and adaptive clothing for the disabled market. Richard believes the deal, alongside a current manufacturing agreement to produce school wear for G&D Garments, and the fact the Malaysian and Bahrain military are both trialling an under body armour combat shirt ‘UBAC’ produced by the company, highlights that Prestige has a strong future.
With famous brands such as Gore-Tex on its books, Prestige has gained a reputation for highly skilled staff capable of producing quality products He said: “Our reputation for designing and manufacturing high quality goods is growing, not just here in the UK but overseas. The field trials with the army are just the tip of the iceberg for us and we intend to fully exploit this opportunity to gain a further foothold in the manufacture of specialist clothing.” For more information on Arc Protective Clothing visit http://arcprotectiveclothing.co.uk/.
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Country house charm in Lanark
Residential Child Care Inspire Scotland provide opportunities for young people to “be the best they can be” and through their time with us “improve their future life chances”.
The Best Western Cartland Bridge Hotel enjoys a peaceful countryside location in Clyde Valley. Surrounded by 19 acres of private woodland, bound by a trout river which the hotel has fishing rights on. In addition to the great outdoors and a wide variety of tree species from around the world brought here by original owners in the 1890’s you’ll also enjoy the great indoors. Our hotel is the finest example of Sir John James Burnett Baronial Scottish Architecture! The perfect place to spend quality time with someone special or relax after a conference, the hotel offers true tranquillity. You’ll be ideally located for getting out and about across Scotland too, with excellent motorway links nearby.
Searoute Group Ltd, 15 Dunnswood House, Dunnswood Rd, Cumbernauld G67 3EN 01236 861231 • info@searoute.co.uk
We engage with Young People who have complex needs from throughout Scotland. We aim to see them through care, and into adulthood. We support all aspects of the children’s and young people’s lives, doing “whatever it takes” to help them engage in their community including education, work and all the relationships that includes. Inspire Scotland believes in partnership working; with families, professionals and all those with whom the young person is involved.
Glasgow Road • Lanark Lanarkshire • ML11 9UE T: 01555 664426
www.bestwestern.co.uk
www.inspirescotland.co.uk
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Lookers PLC
AUTUMN BLOWS IN THE NEW A4 Lomond Fleet Team
are excited, the New A4 is arriving and will be with us at the end of November and the factory ordering has officially opened. 90 percent of the 4th Generation A4 has fresh components and boasts lower kerb weight. Virtual Cockpit as in the TT is an option alongside copious amounts of driver assistance packages, offering 30 systems! You have the security and confidence of the most advanced safety systems. With 7 engines, 3 gearboxes and 54 variants, there is an option to suit you as a company car driver, most importantly weighing in as much as 120kg less than the outgoing model and a drag coefficency of 0.23, making the A4 the lowest in class. Most importantly the Co2 starts at 99g. The Lookers Fleet Team will be visiting companies across the central belt in November with a Roadshow, offering company car drivers the opportunity to discuss the fantastic technology and the ability to test drive. If you wish the team to include visiting your business, please email to the address below and we will include you on our tour.
Audi Fleet Team. Glasgow, Edinburgh, Stirling, Ayr & Hamilton. Jacqui.lee@lomondaudigroup.com – 0141 565 6389
I Didn’t Get W here I Am Today… Name: Malcolm Southern Age: 65 What is your company called? SFS Investme
nts Ltd.
What does it do? It provides financial planning, personal and corporate solutions. What prompted you to choose this particular activity in which to create a business? Ther e always has been and always will be great opportunities to grow a profitable and sustainable business in financial planning. How did you get started? I got started by working for global insurance companies, including Citibank, for 14 years. How quickly did the business take off? Fairly quickly. I had some very good clients and excellent contacts.
Was there a particular moment when you realised you were on the path to success? When I realised our solutions were as good as, and in mos t cases better than, the competition. What constitutes a typical day? I start at 10am and finish at 9pm. I see three existing clients for reviews and one new client to explore how we can help them . I discuss ongoing cases with admin staff and advisers, keep on top of several legislative changes that affect us and our clients, ensure our compliance procedures are being follo wed, research new products and look for new ideas and oppo rtunities. What keeps you going? Running a grea t business and having great clients, corporate and personal. I really enjoy what I do and I work with great people within the business, most of whom have been in the business for 10 years plus. What’s the best part of your day? All of
it.
What’s the bit that really irritates you? Legislation, red tape and endless paperwork can som etimes distract you from the most important and enjoyable part, which is helping clients.
Who is your ideal employee? We are very lucky to have employees who work very hard to help our clients. Who is your nightmare employee? Fortunately, that has never been an issue. What’s the best advice you’ve had over the course of building a business? Make sure you look after your existing clients and look for new business but not at the expense of your existing clients. And the worst? Keep the business small with very low overheads because this type of busin ess needs scale with good staff, good premises and great tech nology. If you suddenly attained executive power in Scotland, what would be the first thing you’ d change? I would expand the undergraduate and appr entice programmes. Young people are our future and we should help them as much as possible, so employers should be rewarded for their participation. If you could pack it all in tomorro w, and still be comfortably off, would you? NO. Any regrets? NONE.
Lanarkshire CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
How did you deal with initial setbacks ? Keeping expenditure to a minimum.
Have you had help from enterpris e agencies? We run pension schemes for some Small Busin ess Gateways and do seminars for them on auto-enrolment and pension freedom.
THE
Were there any sticky moments in the early stages? As with most people starting a business, cash -flow is critical.
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LOUISE RITCHIE UWS School of Health, Nursing and Midwifery
THE
Lanarkshire CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
Dementia in the workplace
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T
he recent focus on extending working life means that many people in the UK will now work beyond the age of 65. While there are many benefits related to this, it also means that employers will have to be increasingly aware of employees developing chronic illnesses which are often associated with older age, such as dementia. It is estimated that 38,000 people of working age (under 65) have dementia in the UK. Dementia is an umbrella term for a range of illnesses which affect the brain. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia. University of the West of Scotland (UWS) is leading research funded by the Alzheimer’s Society, exploring the experiences of people with dementia in employment and the potential for continued employment post-diagnosis. Seventeen case studies of people aged between 50 and 66 who were still in employment at the point of their diagnosis have been carried out as part of this research. Each case study involved an interview with the person with dementia, a family member and a representative from the workplace. Eight people in the case studies continued working post-diagnosis in a variety of roles, such as head of business support, handy man and engineer. Supporting continued employment post-diagnosis is complex. However, there were many benefits for the employee and
the employer of continuing employment. In some cases it was not possible for the participant to continue working, either because of health and safety concerns (e.g. HGV driver and nurse) or because they had not received the appropriate support in the workplace and were not able to cope. The research found that, while it is important to provide support for employees who wish to continue working post-diagnosis, support is also required for those who can’t or don’t wish to continue. The process of leaving work or applying for early retirement can be stressful and confusing for a person with dementia and often includes a long period of uncertainty as a decision is made about their future. Employers need to be aware of the potential impact of dementia so that they can create the conditions to provide support to an employee if it is required. This can help to achieve the best outcome for both the employee and the organisation. The final results of the study, which is being undertaken by UWS in collaboration with Heriot Watt University, will be published in early 2016. However if you would like to know more about this research or be kept informed of the progress of the study please email Louise Ritchie of University’s School of Health, Nursing & Midwifery: louise. ritchie@uws.ac.uk.
COUNCILLOR CHRIS THOMPSON Scottish Labour, South Lanarkshire
THE
Lanarkshire CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
Huge investment in Glasgow and Clyde Valley will bring long-term benefits
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T
he £1.13billion Glasgow and Clyde Valley City Deal is an agreement between the UK government, the Scottish Government and eight local authorities across Glasgow and the Clyde Valley to boost jobs and prosperity in the region. The UK and Scottish Governments will each contribute £500million in grant funding, and local authorities will borrow a further £130million in a bid to create 29,000 jobs created and up to £3.3 billion of new private sector investment in the region. In addition to significant investment in the region’s infrastructure there will also be investment in life sciences, business support and employment programmes. In South Lanarkshire, the City Deal will result in four major projects with a total investment of around £170m including the Cathkin Bypass, a brand new road constructed at a cost of £21million, and major capacity improvements along Greenhills Road / A726 in the south of East Kilbride and through the Stewartfield Way corridor to the north of East Kilbride. Infrastructure improvements will also be delivered to support Community Growth Areas across South Lanarkshire and many
jobs will be created during the construction phases of all these projects, with long-lasting logistical improvements that will boost trade, commerce and overall economic prosperity for many years to come. Overall, this is a tremendous opportunity to work alongside our neighbours and partners on a project which will deliver significant and large-scale benefits. I fully expect the City Deal to cement the Clyde Valley region as one of Europe’s leading areas with a vibrant, thriving economy. Neighbouring areas to benefit from City Deal alongside South Lanarkshire are East Dunbartonshire, East Renfrewshire, Glasgow City, Inverclyde, North Lanarkshire, Renfrewshire and West Dunbartonshire. Officials from each of the eight local authorities as well as other local partner organisations worked to develop the City Deal. For every one of the 1.3 million people living in the Glasgow and Clyde Valley City Deal area, these developments represent a milestone legacy for which our children and grand-children with thank us.
SQA JOURNEYS FOR SCOTLAND’S FUTURE Scotland’s future is our young people – the workforce of tomorrow. SQA qualifications prepare them for work, and give them the skills employers like you are looking for. Find out where SQA Journeys can take your business.
www.sqa.org.uk/journeys
Business Development T: 0303 333 0330 E: mycentre@sqa.org.uk W: www.sqa.org.uk/journeys
WORKING WITH SCOTLAND DELIVERING OVER £28M FUNDING A MONTH FOR BUSINESSES* See how our local team can support you
BIBBYFS.CO.UK
0800 91 95 92
*Source: Based on the level of regional funding provided by Bibby Financial Services as at September 2015