Perthshire InCommerce Issue 22

INcommerce THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

SCOTLAND

DECIDES Chamber quizzes both sides in Referendum Showdown

Launch of Business Star Awards Ryder Cup tees up economic boost Perth City Development Board profile

ISSUE 22 • SUMMER 2014

Investment Adviser of the Year Professional Adviser Awards 2013

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PRESIDENT’S WELCOME

Contents

EDITOR’S INTRODUCTION

Members’ News.....................4 -10 Protecting Perth through Private and Public Partnership........................... 10 -11 Businesses set to shine: 2014 Star Awards.................14 -15 Chamber Sponsors.................... 16 Is your website mobile friendly?........................ 18

Stephen Leckie

A

s the end of my tenure as President of Perthshire Chamber of Commerce approaches, I know that our Chamber will continue to go from strength to strength with my successor, Mike McDiarmid, and Chief Executive, Vicki Unite, working closely together.

I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my interesting and rewarding time as Director, Vice President and President of this vibrant Chamber and fully appreciate the value and importance of having such a robust, reliable and constantly evolving Chamber at the heart of our business community. Being in the privileged position of getting to know some of the most inspirational, impressive and vital business people as President and to work and influence those who govern/ run our county and country on behalf of our members has been an honour and one which I will always cherish.

The Chamber of Commerce is an organisation that I’ve always been keen on promoting and I cannot praise highly enough the time and energy given by my fellow Board Directors which is so valuable.

The Chamber is such a vital part of our economy and I will always be involved with, champion and promote the organisation as I believe it is a valuable asset to the local business community. It has been described as “An excellent example of a rural Chamber” (Scottish Chambers) which, in my opinion – and that of many others – punches well above its weight and – most importantly – is always working on ways to grow, add value and serve the area’s businesses.

Finally, it’s not just about the Board, it’s also about Vicki, Karen and Alison and the power of work that they do.

Wishing you all the very best business success.

Stephen Leckie President Perthshire Chamber of Commerce

Vicki Unite

A

t our AGM in September we will thank out-going President Stephen Leckie for his immense contribution over the past few years and welcome new incumbent Mike McDiarmid as we drive the Chamber forward towards 2015 and beyond. This summer also marks my eighth year in post.

The Chamber’s role is to come together to support the local business community.

In this issue, InCommerce highlights the benefits of working together and maximising opportunities. This is illustrated in several features such as the Ryder Cup and Perth City Development Group features and a preview of plans for Business Month. Several of our “Members’ News” items also credit some of their success to working together with fellow businesses and building trusting, mutually beneficial relationships.

I have learned so much from having Stephen Leckie as our President and our Chamber has benefitted hugely from having such a high profile, successful, visionary leader. Working with Stephen has always been an absolute pleasure.

I thoroughly look forward to working in the same capacity with Mike McDiarmid who comes from – and works in – farming and agricultural and is heavily involved in exporting, crop research and development and will bring new contacts and expertise to our network.

After eight years I still appreciate my appointment and thoroughly enjoy the challenges, rewards, friendships, business partnerships and working relationships that have blossomed. I hope that we can support your business and that you also enjoy being part of the Chamber network which exists for the benefit of all.

Vicki Unite Editor of InCommerce and Chief Executive of Perthshire Chamber of Commerce

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Staff development training climbs the importance scale..... 19 Sporting Focus..................... 22-23 Referendum Special............. 26-31 Interface make specialist funding simple.......................... 32 New Member Profiles........... 36-39 Immigration Law and landlords................................... 43 How flexible are your employees................................. 45 Events....................................... 48 Membership Benefits................. 50

Victoria Unite Chief Executive Perthshire Chamber of Commerce Saltire House 3 Whitefriars Crescent Perth PH2 0PA T: 01738 448325 E: vicki@perthshirechamber.co.uk W: www.perthshirechamber.co.uk For advertising contact DTech on T: 01436 678808 E: sales@incommerce.biz For editorial enquiries contact the Editor, Vicki Unite on T: 01738 448325 E: info@perthshirechamber.co.uk Publisher: DTech InCommerce is published by DTech, 20 East Argyle Street, Helensburgh G84 7RR. Telephone 01436 678808.

E-mail: info@dtechuk.com. Edited by Perthshire Chamber of Commerce, Saltire House, 3 Whitefriars Crescent, Perth PH2 0PA Tel: 01738 448325.

E-mail: info@perthshirechamber.co.uk. 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 InCommerce Ltd or DTech Publishing Ltd.

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MEMBERS’ NEWS

PERTH AND KINROSS BUSINESS AND ENTERPRISE MONTH 2014 Following on from last year’s hugely successful Business Month, Perth and Kinross’ business support organisations are planning some exciting events again with a wide range of business topics being addressed making it a “must” for Perthshire businesses.

Perth and Kinross Council, Perthshire Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise North East Trust/Business Gateway, Federation of Small Businesses, Scottish Enterprise and Perth College UHI have developed an innovative and exciting programme of events, the vast majority of which are free, which will run from the last week in October until 22nd November. The Business and Enterprise Month offers something for everyone regardless of the size or nature of your business. The programme content throughout the month has been specifically designed to assist, encourage and inspire businesses to grow.

This will be a great opportunity for businesses from all sectors to be inspired, entertained, challenged with new ideas and encouraged to consider new ways of thinking. Businesses will

also be made fully aware of the huge amount of local support available to help them achieve their objectives.

We have pulled together a full programme of inspiring keynote speakers, innovative workshops, expert panels and targeted exhibitions.

The month will cover a raft of issues related to family business and succession planning, innovations, digital marketing, social media, accessing finance, sales, sustainability, exporting and enterprise. The programme offers engagement through a wide range of formats from one to one surgeries and small workshops to larger seminars and a flagship half day conference on November the 6th.

Do not miss out on this unique opportunity to develop your business and engage directly with the private and public sector in a collaborative, supportive and dynamic environment.

For full information and bookings please go to: http://pkbem.co.uk

PERTHSHIRE TOURISM BUSINESSES JOIN FORCES TO DRIVE NATIONAL EVENTS TO PERTH Tracey Quin of Perth Racecourse, Tim Du Pon of Prestige Venues and Events and Rose Martin of The Wee Pie Company, one of the venue’s local artisan suppliers.

Perthshire Business Tourism Group members, Perth Racecourse and Landrover Experience Scotland based at Butterstone Loch, have come together to create a new corporate event experience that will, they say, “deliver an opportunity for driving large, regional team building conferences to Perth.”

Together with their catering partner, Prestige Venues and Events, Perth Racecourse identified an opportunity to grow their conference market share and attract regional events and blue chip conference business to Perthshire; this has now been fulfilled by their new partnership with Landrover Experience Scotland.

Tracey Quin, Sales Manager at Perth Racecourse commented: “It is exciting to see the conference market slowly starting to grow again but clients are, without question, looking for an enhanced offer that maximises their budget. We must be able to compete on this level and by combining our existing partnership with Prestige and our new partnership with Landrover Experience Scotland, we can offer exactly this.”

It is anticipated that the new partnership arrangement will allow them to tap into the multi-day conferencing market attracting room nights and additional delegate spend to the city centre. Prestige currently work with many local artisan food producers and again, they foresee these partnerships growing in line with their own business.

“It’s win win win!” commented Tracey.

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

STAR LEADS TO FURTHER SUCCESS FOR CAFÉ TABOU City centre restaurant Café Tabou has had an amazing first half to 2014. Having won the Chamber of Commerce STAR award for Excellence in Customer Service at last November’s awards ceremony, this year has delivered a series of successes for the busy local venue.

The team has been nominated twice over a three month period for Open Table’s Diners’ Choice – in April and once again in June. Tabou has also been nominated for one of the prestigious Scottish Thistle Awards and they hope to progress through the competitive regional selection process during the next few months.

Visit Scotland also launched a new “Taste Our Best” programme for 2014 which focuses on quality and use of local products and Team Tabou recently received notification that the anonymous assessor had accredited them certification for this new programme also.

Marek Michalak, Executive Chef and business owner, said: “The end of 2013 with us winning the Chamber STAR award was a fantastic end to a very busy year.

The accreditations and nominations from the various organisations so far in 2014 have been a delight for the team and extremely motivational as our success to date has been based upon not only our own focus on delivering to our loyal customers but also our customers’ positive feedback on Tabou which has resulted in them nominating us for these accreditations and awards. We thank them all for this loyalty.”

MEMBERS’ NEWS

CHAMBER MEMBERS COLLABORATE TO CREATE A WORLD-FIRST IN GOOGLE MAPS Three Chamber members collaborated to allow Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance (SCAA) to welcome the world into its base via a world-first tour in Google Maps.

The Google Maps Business View® tour of its Perth Airport HQ is the first of an air ambulance base.

The marketing tool uses Google Street View® technology to allow anyone interested in finding out what happens at SCAA HQ to take a tour around 24/7, even on their smartphone, in the same way they ‘walk’ around the streets in Google Maps’ Street View®.

All they have to do is go to the SCAA website or Facebook page, where a link to the tour in Google Street View® has been embedded, or search for “Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance” in Google Search, Google Maps or Google+ and click the ‘See Inside’.

When they do they’ll meet its new mascot – helicopter hero ‘Captain SCAA’ – and see how his efforts, alongside those of other team members, save lives all over Scotland. They’ll also come across a few surprises.

The tour was donated by award-winning Google photography franchise Mr Droogle after its Marketing Manager, Chamber member Alan S. Morrison of ASM Media & PR, met John Bullough, Chairman of Chamber members SCAA and McEwens of Perth. They both saw the potential to use the digital tool to promote SCAA’s work and Alan immediately agreed to donate the tour to the charity.

You can view the SCAA tour on their website at www.scaa. org.uk or directly in Google Maps at http://goo.gl/55gnsz

CAROL HOLBEIN-NEVILLE IN NEW BDM ROLE The local leading business group which includes McLeod Glaziers and Meldrum Construction is delighted to announce the recent appointment of Carol Holbein-Neville in the role of Business Development Manager based at their Head Office in Perth.

Carol, who has extensive experience in business development and sales functions, joined the group to focus on Carol Holbein-Neville, Business developing further business growth in Development Manager. both projects work and maintenance contracts across the products and service lines of the Perth-based, Scottish focussed firms.

Group Chief Executive Derek Petterson, said: “After a few years of solid growth and organisational change, when many other firms have struggled, I’m very happy that we’ve continued our business success into 2014. We’ve made team changes resulting in a number of promoted posts within the organisation over the past few months and Carol’s recent appointment will strengthen the team as a whole and provide a new dynamic to our business development activity. With her experience in hands-on sales and sales management roles, she will strengthen existing business relationships and forge new ones.”

Carol, who moved to Perthshire from her native West Coast some 16 years ago, added: “McLeods and Meldrums are two impressive businesses with their own identities that are forwardthinking as far as business and market offerings. The depth and breadth of the products and services offered across the firms provides a real differentiator in the market and for a sales person this gives strong propositions to take to clients. I’ve always enjoyed the new business development role and I like to make a positive contribution to the overall business growth.

I feel that I can bring strong capability and market experience to the team here.”

BLUESKY EXPERIENCES LAUNCH NEW WEBSITE After 12 months of careful planning, keyword researching, content writing and meticulous spell-checking, BlueSky Experiences proudly launched their brand new website out in to the world at the end of May this year.

The project, or rather labour of love, was undertaken with the intention of bringing the brand up to speed, in-line with its competition and providing the team with a new platform from which they could communicate with their customers and showcase their range of products and services.

The new site has been designed with the user in mind, offering sleek navigation, simple and easy to use filters, crossplatform compatibility and colour coding, ensuring browsers can access information as easily as possible.

The new, content-rich pages are loaded with embedded YouTube videos and high quality images which alongside brief and concise copy, deliver high-impact information, helping the user to decide which products are going to be right for their teams.

The addition of new social media and sharing buttons makes it easier than ever to connect to the brand online and the new blog makes it easy to keep up to date on all of the latest articles, special offers, new product launches and general goings-on at BlueSky Experiences HQ. The team would love to hear any feedback you may have, so if you have five minutes, please get in touch with them on 01738 840 804 or email anna@blueskyexperiences.com.

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

MEMBERS’ NEWS

NEW FACES AT BINN GROUP FRAKTUL MOVE TO LARGER OFFICES Fraktul is delighted to announce their move to larger offices in Kinnoull House. The new space provides more room for client meetings and further growth.

The Fraktul team is working with a range of clients, including Live Active, Binn Group and Clark Thomson Insurance Brokers.

Binn Group new appointments - Brian Harkins (left), Managing Director, and Jim Brown, Commercial Manager.

Perthshire-based Binn Group, Scotland’s leading independent waste management company, has made two new appointments to its senior management team.

Brian Harkins (48) from Falkirk comes on board as Managing Director, responsible for the development and growth of all core services, while Jim Brown (47) from Gourock takes up the reins of Commercial Manager, challenged with attracting new business – particularly Blue Chip companies - and developing all of Binn Group’s commercial streams.

Both executives previously held senior positions with the William Tracey Group.

The two new appointments will help spearhead Binn Group (previously Binnwaste Management and Binn Skips) through their rebranding process and help cement their position as industry leaders throughout Perthshire, Dundee, Angus, Fife and Central Scotland.

“Binn Group has tremendous potential to be a major player in a very dynamic and rapidly evolving industry,” said Brian, current President of the Scottish Metals Association, “and I’m really excited about playing a part in the company’s latest evolution and engineering solutions for our clients.”

“Binn Group is a very forward-thinking and ambitious company and I look forward to determining how we can grow and develop in the coming months and years,” added Jim. “Waste management is not an industry to stand still and this new role presents its own set of challenges and rewards as we seek to continue to move with the times and reaffirm our position among the industry leaders.”

As a preferred consultant for the Perth and Kinross Consultant Grant, Fraktul has helped a number of businesses develop their marketing capability through strategic marketing, brand development and effective promotional material. This has included complete marketing support for new Perth based business Kingspark Memorials and rebranding for Lettings Direct.

The Fraktul team has proven the value it can add, supporting The Bathroom Company to win UK Bathroom Retailer 2014. This is the third time this Perth based business has won this prestigious award in four years.

Another client has seen sales increase by over 65% compared with the previous year.

Managing Director and Chartered Marketer Stephen Gorton says: “We have an experienced team which is totally client focused and provides active marketing support. This year we’ve developed and delivered a diverse range of branding and promotional material. Promotional material has included vehicle branding, pop-up banners, websites, brochures and signage, to help get our clients noticed.

Our clients know that we’ll always go the extra mile to get their project delivered and appreciate the business focused marketing mentoring that we provide as part of our service.”

BANK OF SCOTLAND BOLSTERS SME TEAM IN PERTHSHIRE

Brian and Jim have a combined experience of 52 years in the waste management industry.

Company founders, father and son, John and Allan MacGregor, assume the positions of Chairman and Chief Executive respectively.

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

Ian Collins, SME Senior Manager, Bank of Scotland.

MEMBERS’ NEWS

EUROPEAN WRITES FOR PREPRESS PROJECTS Perth-based science and medical publishing services company Prepress Projects has been doing business in Europe for over a decade and has built up a strong portfolio of clients outside the UK. Some years ago they identified EU agencies as a target market and they now work for five of these pan-European bodies. They are pleased to announce an addition to their client list: the EU Agency for Fundamental Rights which is based in Vienna.

The company supplies specialist writing, editing, design and technical services to publishers and public sector bodies. Most of the company’s business comes from the UK, and their largest client is in fact the NHS, but they also see Europe as a big opportunity for growth.

Recent developments have even provided the company with its first client outside Europe: they now produce a medical journal for a prestigious client based in the United Arab Emirates.

With clients in Portugal, Spain, France, Germany, Luxembourg, Austria, Norway and Italy, Prepress Projects refuse to be drawn on which country they hope to add to the list next.

More clients abroad has meant more business travel. The past year has seen trips to Bilbao, Luxembourg, Stuttgart, Brussels and Vienna. There was even a 6,500-mile trip for Journals Director Lucy Harrier to Manila in the Philippines to secure relationships with an important supplier.

The top people at Prepress Projects (left to right): directors Dr Lucy Harrier, David MacDonald and Helen MacDonald and publishing manager Catriona Vernal.

Ian Collins has been appointed as an SME Senior Manager for Bank of Scotland in Perthshire, covering Tayside, Fife and Stirling. Ian brings a wealth of experience to the role having spent twenty five years with Lloyds Banking Group across a number of geographies and sectors.

Heading up Tayside, Fife and Stirling, Ian’s Perth based team looks after a range of enterprises in the area, from start-ups to established companies with turnovers of up to £25 million.

Ian first joined Lloyds Banking Group as a management trainee after completing his A Levels and went on undertake his degree in banking and finance alongside pursuing his career. He was awarded a Fellowship of the Chartered Institute of Bankers in 2010.

THIRD GENERATION JOINS LEADING LOCAL FIRM

Chas Stewart Plumbing and Heating Engineers Managing Director, Steven Stewart.

Local firm Chas Stewart Plumbing and Heating Engineers has recently welcomed the third generation of the family to the business. Linzi and Abbie Stewart, daughters of Managing Director Steven Stewart, have joined the family firm which has now been established for over 30 years.

With the girls joining the team, the firm now has five members of the family involved in day-to-day operations.

Steven maintains operational leadership, with brother Charlie holding the position of senior engineer. Linzi and Abbie have recently taken on roles in the office in finance and sales directors positions respectively whilst Steve and Charlie’s mother, Joan, provides administration support in the business her husband started back in 1978.

Steven commented: “It’s great to see the younger generation interested in working in a traditional trades firm and despite the ups-and-downs in the economy over the past few years we’ve managed to maintain our position as one of the leading trades of our type in Perthshire, Fife and the Central Belt. There have been been recent industry campaigns looking to encourage more females into our industry sector and survey results certainly seem to be backing up the idea that plumbing these days isn’t just a man’s world! I’m delighted to see Linzi and Abbie getting involved.”

Chas Stewart Plumbing and Heating Engineers has been headquartered in Perth for as long as the firm has been in existence and is a Worcester Bosch Gold Accredited Installer in addition to being accredited in 2013 within the Government Green Deal programme.

Ian has an ideal blend of relationship and transactional experience to bring to his team, as well as key stakeholder engagement with VisitScotland, the Law Society of Scotland and Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce. Ian also led the bank’s involvement with the Scottish Asian Business Awards, celebrating business success with those at the forefront of their industries.

Commenting on his new appointment, Ian said: “The central area of Scotland hosts a diverse range of talent across a variety of sectors and industries and I am looking forward to utilising my extensive commercial experience to further growth across Perthshire.”

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

MEMBERS’ NEWS

THE BATHROOM COMPANY WINS LEADING NATIONAL KITCHEN AND BATHROOM AWARD Local Perth business, The Bathroom Company, has been announced a winner at the biggest awards event in the kitchen and bathroom industry. The award, which was presented at a glittering gala dinner held at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole, was for UK Bathroom Retailer of the Year.

Lawrence Haddow, Managing Director, for The Bathroom Company, says: “I am absolutely thrilled that our team has been recognised by the kbbreview awards as the UK’s best bathroom retailer for a third time. We have worked extremely hard to continue to offer both the very best products and standards of service to our customers and to improve in all areas of our business.

“Winning this award means a huge amount to us and is recognition that if you work hard, you can achieve the very best results. I am very, very proud of our team and am delighted that the huge amount of effort they have put in throughout the last year has been rewarded. It really is the icing on the cake.”

Bathroom guru, Patrick Riley, who led the judging says: “You were quite simply the best - well done!”

Tim Wallace, editor of kbbreview, says: “We would like to extend our many congratulations to The Bathroom Company on winning a kbbreview Award and wish them every future success .”

NEW PANDORA CONCEPT STORE TO OPEN IN PERTH Worldwide jewellery brand Pandora is to open a Pandora Concept Store on Perth High Street. It is the latest business venture for Jane Atkinson who also owns Bertie Browns.

The stylish new concept store is to open in August at 164 High Street, Perth. The shop will be fitted with the brand new ‘Evolution’ furniture, which is the next stage in Pandora’s store design concept. The new look enables a better opportunity to present products with enhanced lighting and display, whilst keeping the brand’s recognisable image. Pandora Perth will be the first store in Scotland to showcase the new look!

Jane Atkinson of Bertie Browns said: “The team and I are very excited about opening our first concept store. It is a great opportunity for us and the beautiful city of Perth and hopefully it will inspire others to invest in the city.”

The opening of such a high-end brand is a real vote of confidence for Perth and Jane has taken on seven new employees and hopes to recruit more as the business takes off.

Pandora is a Danish jewellery brand which launched in 1982 and has seen meteoric growth ever since. Famed for its charm bracelets, the worldwide brand’s mission is to offer women high quality, hand-finished, modern and genuine jewellery products at affordable prices.

KEEPING ENERGY IN PERSPECTIVE Energy Perspective was chosen by Edinburgh Z o o to d el i ve r a communication strategy for the keepers and environmental team to interact and strengthen the data capture controls across the 82 acre site. Breaking down the site allows the zoo to monitor which areas are more energy intensive and to react accordingly. Our Analysis Team offers remote energy management to the zoo for data capture and recommended future projects.

Another client undertook a project to identify energy overuse and assist in preventative electricity saving initiatives. In 2013 Energy Perspective introduced a monitoring solution which in conjunction with a lighting initiative saved them 23% within

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

the offices and RDF warehouse. In 2014 Energy Perspective installed a wireless solution to increase the capabilities of data capture where IT infrastructures were limited. With a clear plan to engage the workforce Energy Perspective are working with them to reduce the carbon emissions by 15% by 2015.

Energy Perspective were selected to undertake a strategic programme to provide a heat metering package to support the design works for the new Gilmorehill CHP and district heating project. The project has been identified to replace old boilers with a CHP plant and to add a number of buildings on the north side of the campus into the district heating loop. Energy Perspective supplied, installed and commissioned a monitoring platform for Glasgow University to review the return flow in seven buildings across the Glasgow campus. The project was met using wireless non-invasive modern technology with accuracy of data.

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MEMBERS’ NEWS

BLACKHILLS SPECIALIST DENTAL CLINIC INTRODUCES INNOVATIVE DENTAL IMPLANT WARRANTY SCHEME

PROTECTING PERTH THROUGH PRIVATE AND PUBLIC PARTNERSHIP

A recent article in one of the major daily newspapers reported on a potential ‘time bomb’ regarding dental implants called “peri-implantitis”. Studies into this have suggested that one third of patients will be affected and the disease is always preceded by a much milder disease, called peri-implant “mucositis”, which is common and treatable.

Early warning signs are red, swollen gums with bleeding when probed. If undetected and untreated, it may develop into peri-implantitis. As bone loss is painless, many people don’t realise they have the condition and therefore good oral hygiene and regular followup appointments after implant surgery are essential.

One of the problems with seeking treatment abroad (as some patients do, in search of a cheaper option) is the lack of life-long maintenance and follow-up, which is a key part of the care process To enable our patients to have confidence in the long term health of dental implants placed at Blackhills Clinic, we offer an Implant Warranty Scheme, which means this treatment is covered by a 12-month replacement warranty (as long as the patient doesn’t smoke), but this can be extended by attending for regular “Implant Health Assessments” with our senior implant hygienist. An implant assessment card issued to each patient indicates the frequency of review required (according to a number of patient-related and implant treatment factors).

Continued review appointments guarantee reduced costs for any required maintenance treatment and help to ensure that the patient’s investment in their dental health is protected.

Paul Stone, Specialist Oral Surgeon and Clinical Director, Blackhills Clinic

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

The Perth City Development Board, formed in 2013, is the highest ranking and most influential public/private partnership in the County, whose role is to steer the council in the formation of the Perth City 10 Year development plan.

It is tasked with overseeing the delivery of the plan and, if necessary, adjusting its priorities. And what makes the PCDB unique is that it is led by the private sector and chaired by local businessman John Bullough.

John is Chairman of McEwen’s Department Store, Perth City Centre’s largest private employer, and is also Chairman of the Trustees of Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance.

John is passionate about Perth’s future development and here he explains to InCommerce why he believes Perth is on the brink of a renaissance that will see it re-establish itself as Scotland’s most attractive City.

BUSINESS FEATURE • •

Our unemployment is well below the Scottish average The retail catchment area of Perth holds 1,980,000 potential customers.

“The PCDB is conscious of the significant opportunity to raise Perth’s game and we recognise that in almost every sector Perth punches below its weight. It is our role to stimulate and challenge the existing council plans to deliver the renaissance that Perth deserves.

“The Board is lucky to have business leaders from almost every sector of industry; tourism, retail, financial services, insurance, energy, hospitality, transport, sport, education and health (to name just a few). The board also comprises the leader of the Council, the Chief Executive and the Head of Planning amongst others, which gives both the public and private sectors an opportunity to robustly discuss the issues face to face.

“T

he restoration of City status has provided us with a unique opportunity to build a more confident and vibrant community. Our ambition must be to become a dynamic, international city that offers not only a nationally recognised superior quality of life; but also offers outstanding business, artistic, educational, cultural and leisure opportunities to our citizens and visitors.

“The Perth City Development Board has been formed to champion, guide and monitor the implementation of the Perth City Plan. The action plan has a simple vision - ’To develop the City of Perth as the most desirable place in Scotland to live, work, visit and invest’. An admirable vision indeed, but as you might expect, the devil is in the detail.

“City Centres nationally have seen an unprecedented period of decline as shopping habits have changed, out of town hypermarkets have been allowed to grow disproportionally and the internet has revolutionised our retail structure.

These changes have all been exacerbated by an economic slowdown that has created one of the lowest levels of consumer confidence in living memory.

“In dealing with these significant challenges and the interminable doom and gloom from the media, it is very easy to miss the great commercial opportunities that we have to offer. Perth has a tendency to not market itself as well as it should, which is a shame when there is so much to shout about. So let me remind you of some of the enticing things Perth has to offer potential investors: • • •

Perth is Scotland’s newest and the fastest growing City.

It is at the heart of Scotland historically, culturally and geographically 90% of Scotland’s population lives within 90 minutes of Perth and our two largest international airports are within an hour’s drive.

“The population of Perth is due to increase by approximately 2% a year. With this significant opportunity comes the challenge to maintain and sustain this growth with a suitable level infrastructure investment. Congestion and pollution in some areas of Perth is already unacceptable and PCDB is keen to ensure that the scheduled investments are funded and delivered on time.

“The PCDB also has the unique opportunity to step back from the detail and consider if the overriding strategy fits our future aspirations. What do we want Perth to look and feel like 20 years from now?

“Several sub-groups have been assigned to look into how to develop our cultural, educational and tourist offering.

These are potentially large exciting signature projects that will bring many more visitors into our city, but as with the Dundee waterfront, they will take many years to deliver.

“There are a number of successful City Centres in the UK from which we can learn lessons; Norwich, York and Chester being great examples. Perth has a great deal in common with these Cities, but the opportunities and gaps are easy to identify. It is clear that retail on its own is no longer the primary driver of footfall to these Cities.

Consumers come to Cities as a destination with their friends and their families for a day out and the quality of the tourist, catering and event offering is crucial.

“Amongst all the uncertainty, the one thing I am absolutely sure of is that the next 10 years are going to be incredibly exciting for the Fair City and I look forward to reporting back to the Chamber with the updated Perth City Plan in the near future.

”

John Bullough, Chair, Perth City Development Group

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

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BUSINESS FEATURE

BUSINESSES SET TO SHINE Launch of the 2014 Business Star Awards

T

he search is on for Perthshire’s brightest business stars of the year as the countdown begins to the county’s most prestigious business awards.

The Perthshire Chamber of Commerce Business Star Awards 2014 are set to recognise and reward the cream of local companies – both large and small – whose impact and performance have helped to keep Perthshire at the forefront of Scottish business in the 21st century.

Celebrating all aspects of the local business world, the area’s premier Awards will highlight the real “stars” across our leading sectors including tourism and leisure, food and drink, retail, innovation, customer service, commitment to the community and exporting.

Perthshire Chamber of Commerce also recognises the value of emerging talent and individuals who have proved outstanding in their particular sector will have a chance to shine in the apprentice and employee of the year categories.

Those with ‘green’ credentials will also be recognised.

The Chamber is delighted to have secured the generous support of GS Group as Main Sponsor for the second year running. George Stubbs, Group Managing Director said: “I am delighted that GS Group have once again secured the sponsorship of this year’s Star Awards. This is the most prestigious dinner in the Perth and Kinross business calendar and it provides a unique opportunity for local businesses to showcase their hard work and receive recognition for their efforts.

“From the number of awards and entrants, it is clear to see how important both the Chamber and the business community see this event. It provides a wonderful opportunity in a stunning setting for businesses to get together for some valuable networking.

“Once again, we look forward to the event and meeting up with many likeminded business people.”

“Every year we are extremely impressed by the standard of entry right across the board,” she said. “Perthshire has an abundance of outstanding businesses ranging from established internationally renowned organisations through to emerging one man operations.

“As the definitive local business awards, Perthshire Business Star Awards continues to attract, showcase, applaud and reward those companies and individuals who are making a difference - those keeping the wheels of commerce turning during difficult times and ‘shining’ even when our economy is at its most challenging.

“Over the years, the PCC Business Star trophies have become much-sought-after targets for companies to achieve,” she added, “and we have rolled out hundreds of examples of business excellence in the form of our winners.”

Chamber President Stephen Leckie said he hoped 2014 would again produce “a platform of outstanding performers” from Perthshire’s business community.

“To be judged the best at what you do is a real accolade for businesses,” he said. “To take home a Chamber Business Star is a true sign of quality and excellence – something that abounds in the companies operating at all levels in this area.

“Each year we see some truly remarkable contenders and – despite the difficult operating climate – I hope we can showcase some real Stars at this year’s awards dinner.”

The awards will come to a glittering climax at a black tie dinner at Crieff Hydro on Friday, November 21.

This annual celebration of the best in the business world always proves a spectacular night out and tickets (£65 + VAT) can be booked in advance by contacting the Chamber office on 01738 488325 or by email to events@ perthshirechamber.co.uk And it couldn’t be easier to enter!

Entries are now being invited for 13 category awards and the search is on for the best in the business with the area’s most prestigious title - Perthshire Chamber of Commerce Business Of The Year 2014 - up for grabs.

So businesses are being asked to “reach for the Stars” before entries close on Monday 29th September. Industry leaders, Chamber directors and sponsors from the business world will then help unearth the shiniest Stars in one of the country’s most robust judging procedures.

Chamber Chief Executive Vicki Unite is looking forward to another outstanding event.

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

A simple “one question” on-line form with a maximum 750 word answer can be submitted.

Either log-in and submit your entry today, or take a note of the question and compose your 750 words in your own time. Then simply copy and paste into the answer box at your convenience.

Find out more about each category and apply directly by visiting: www.businessstarawards.co.uk Entries close on Monday 29th September.

IN WHICH CATEGORY COULD YOUR BUSINESS SHINE? Businesses across Perthshire and Kinross-shire are invited to enter a maximum of two of the 13 categories.

Businesses DO NOT have to be a member of Perthshire Chamber of Commerce to enter.

This year’s Star Award categories are: 1. Employee of the Year Award sponsored by McLeod Glaziers Do you have an employee that is a real star? Does one of your workmates deserve special recognition? Or do you come across a worker in your day-to-day life that goes the extra mile to do their job well? If the answer to any of these questions is “yes”, then nominate them for this Star Award.

2. Apprentice of the Year Award sponsored by Perth College UHI Judges will be looking for entries that showcase the difference the Apprentice has made to the organisation they work in with clear demonstrations of ability, outstanding achievements through practical and theoretical practice and the personal qualities, skill and commitment to make them stand out as a worthy winner of the Apprentice of the Year Award.

NB: Apprentice must be in at least their second year of completing a full framework.

3. Most Promising New Business Award sponsored by Enterprise & Business Gateway If your business has been operating for three years or less, why not enter the Most Promising New Business Award? Entrants should provide details of how the company has performed and what its future projections are. You should explain the background to the business, the markets it operates in, the business vision and the research that was undertaken when the business was in development. By doing so you could receive the reward you deserve for successfully setting up your business.

NB: The business entering this award must have been trading for 3 years or less on 31st March 2014. You will not qualify if your business has trading activity of over 3 years at this date.

6. Commitment to the Community Award sponsored by RBS If your company demonstrates environmental best practice, ethical best practice or sustainable development. Judges are particularly interested in the application of these practices and the impact that these initiatives have had on the company.

7. Excellence in Tourism & Leisure Award sponsored by Bank of Scotland Open to all businesses, non-profit making organisations and charities of all sizes who can demonstrate a commitment to the community in which they operate.

8. Contribution to Sustainability Award sponsored by Stagecoach Group Open to all businesses and organisations of all sizes that can demonstrate measurable success in the field of leisure tourism and/or business tourism or associated leisure activities.

Entrants should be able to demonstrate commitment to growth and success in achieving planned objectives - for example in terms of visitor numbers, turnover, employment, quality assurance ratings, or local and national impact. Entrants should be able to prove a track record in customer satisfaction and a continued commitment to exceeding customer expectations by providing a unique customer experience.

9. Excellence in Export Award sponsored by Perth & Kinross Council This award is aimed at companies which have recently started to grow and sustain their business through the export market.

NB: Please note that this category is only open to companies who were not exporting prior to 31st March 2009.

10. Business Growth Award sponsored by Johnston Carmichael Chartered Accountants Open to any business from any sector. Businesses should demonstrate strong business initiatives, sustained growth in turnover and profitability, together with a clear strategy and plan to drive sustainable growth in the future.

11. Excellence in E-Commerce Award sponsored by Bertie Browns Open to any business which can demonstrate significant growth and sustainability through use of online technology.

Online activity should be directly linked to sales.

4. Excellence in Customer Service Award sponsored by Graham Environmental Services Open to all businesses and organisations of all sizes in all sectors. Judges will look for commitment to delivering excellence in customer service that generates positive, measurable, repeat and additional business.

12. Independent Retailer of the Year Award sponsored by Fairways HR Business Support & Recruitment Specialists Open to shops and on-line retailers of all sizes and all types.

Judges will look for innovative development and presentation of product ranges, sound business planning and commitment to quality service delivery.

5. Excellence in Business Innovation Award sponsored by Binn Group If your business has been innovative in creating a new product, system or way of working, perhaps using existing technology, to excel in today’s market place this is the Award for you. The judging panel is interested in uncovering how the use of this innovation has made a difference in your business.

13. Excellence in Food & Drink Produce Award sponsored by The James Hutton Institute Open to a business responsible for producing a food or drink product from scratch and achieving merit and recognition within the industry. Those which are producing something uniquely excellent. The winner could come from any area of food and drink.

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

CHAMBER SPONSORS

PARTNERSHIPS ENHANCE CHAMBER OFFERING

P

erthshire Chamber of Commerce is hugely grateful to the on-going support offered by their raft of committed Sponsor Partners.

The backing of key Platinum, Gold and Silver Partners has allowed the Chamber to function on a level otherwise unachievable. Their input guarantees an enhanced service for all our members in terms of the range of events, quality of service and dedicated support.

PCC Chief Executive, Vicki Unite, explained the importance of these Partnerships and what they bring to the Chamber, as well as the benefits for those businesses signing up to a Partnership package.

“The role of the Chamber is to support local businesses and the extent of that support would be severely restricted were it not for our generous Platinum, Gold and Silver Partners, working in addition to the support of our membership as a whole,” she said.

“We introduced these tiered packages in response to the recession where we needed to make our sponsorship opportunities more accessible - particularly taking into account a huge percentage of Perthshire businesses are micro-businesses.

“By creating these packages, which provide a core of common benefits - but have the ability to be fully tailored to the Partners’ requirements - we are able to offer a level of service that is closely aligned to the businesses’ marketing and promotional activities and overall objectives,” explained Vicki.

“The support that we receive from our Partners also allows us to subsidise our costs and reduce fee increases while continuously growing our service offering and support for members.”

Vicki explained that the benefits package was not all one way and stressed that Sponsor Partners could capitalise on both raised profiles and on-going publicity through their year-long relationship, increasing their standing in the local business community.

“Our Sponsor Partners are all businesses that are well established in Perth and Kinross and want to support the rest of the business community in the area - especially our wealth of SMEs and business start-ups,” said Vicki.

“They are putting something back into the local business sector and we are extremely grateful for their foresight and generosity,” she added. “Perthshire Chamber of Commerce punches well above its weight and that is due in no small measure to our Partners. The level and breadth of service we deliver would be much reduced without their backing.”

Vicki is happy to discuss Sponsor Partner packages with both existing and potential supporters at any time.

“It really is a partnership and Binn Group, GS Group, Bank of Scotland, The James Hutton Institute, Graham Environmental Services, Perth College UHI, McLeod Glaziers, Royal Bank of Scotland, Carbon Financial Partners, Crieff Hydro, Highland Spring, Inspire IT Services, Black & Lizars and KeepSafe all deserve the grateful thanks of the Board, staff and membership of the Chamber.”

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

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professional web presence is very important for any business but why when mobile usage is predicted to overtake internet usage this year would you get a website developed that wasn’t responsive?

What is responsive web design?

Responsive Web Design (RWD) is an approach to web design where the site is crafted to be optimally viewed regardless of screen size no matter whether your visitor arrives by desktop, mobile device or tablet.

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Why should you have a responsive website?

As smartphone and tablet adoption rapidly increases, so does the importance of mobile-friendly websites. It is only logical that mobile search will overtake desktop search at some point in the near future as well.

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Users need and expect full functionality on their mobile device, because they could be using it anywhere, for any reason. That means that many of your users literally require all of the same functionality on mobile that they would otherwise get on a desktop. Check how your website looks on a mobile phone, if it’s not responsive you will find yourself having to zoom in to navigate, users soon get fed up with this and move on to your competitors who have had the foresight to invest in a professional responsive website.

Google states that responsive web design is its recommended mobile configuration, and even goes so far as to refer to responsive web design as the industry best practice.

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

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Sitting up doing administrative work in the early hours of the morning?

Dread meeting financial deadlines set by government bodies?

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No time to complete your workload, let alone your finances?

But competing pressures on firms can mean that staff development can be easily pushed down the priority list.

This is why Skills Development Scotland has a range of tools to hand meaning that getting started has never been so easy.

Thinking of setting up in business or have just set-up and feel overwhelmed by finances?

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Graeme said: “We are there to help employers develop all of their staff who are at all stages of their careers. That could range from helping people train to meet new industry required qualifications or a new business need.

“It could also be about helping young people into the workplace. They need more than knowledge and skills, they need to understand the discipline of employment and the culture of businesses and industries.”

SDS’s online service for employers, OurSkillsForce.co.uk, offers information on national and local skills support including how to recruit, get funding for staff training and how to develop a workforce.

It also provides regularly updated information on national and local labour markets, the latest thinking from business and sector leaders and online tools to help with skills planning.

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Graeme Schmidt, Employer Engagement Advisor, Skills Development Scotland

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

THE HUB SIGNPOSTING YOUR FUTURE AND ASSISTING LOCAL EMPLOYERS TO GROW THE EMPLOYMENT INITIATIVES team within the Council is entering an exciting new era, having moved to new premises at 31-33 South Street on 14th May 2014. This spacious brand new ‘all purpose’ employability suite with 8 computer work stations and training room is to become, as the name suggests, a ‘Hub’ for business and employability activity.

The team has assisted 639 individuals back to work since it opened in November 2011.

Our focus is on enabling “Job Ready” clients boost their employability skills to enable them to gain sustainable employment. We offer oneto-one support with CV building, letter writing, completing application forms, telephone techniques and mock interviews as well as any other assistance required by the individual. Clients can access computers and newspapers for job searches, and other free resources to help them apply for vacancies, between 9.30am and 4.30pm Monday to Friday.

The Hub is also committed to working with local employers at no cost to them to assist with their recruitment needs and matching their job vacancies to Hub clients. We offer businesses we engage with the opportunity to use our facility to host interviews at no cost. In addition we still have two recruitment incentives available for local employers.

Please feel free to call the HUB on 01738 459610 or pop in to talk to the team to discuss how we can help you grow your business.

PERTH FOOD & DRINK PARK IN MARCH THE new Perth Food & Drink Park at North Muirton was formally launched. The Council’s vision is to create a new home in Perth for the Scottish Food and Drink sector.

Five months later and site works to create 16 acres of serviced business land at the new Perth Food & Drink Park are on schedule to complete by early August.

The works have comprised the creation of serviced development plots ranging from 1 acre to 3 acres. Each plot has been fully serviced and now benefits from: new road access, mains electricity, medium pressure gas, potable water, surface drainage, foul drainage and street ducting for the future installation of superfast broadband.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Pedestrian and cycle links to the core path network have been improved and extended and a newly created pond (part of the Sustainable Urban Drainage System) now forms an impressive new landscape feature at the new Park.

provide flexible space, touchdown and hot-desking facilities and a demonstrator kitchen. Discussions are progressing well with potential occupiers and funding bids are now being worked up with a view to submitting a Planning application later this year.

Food and drink is one of the key sectors of the Perth city region with a number of innovative small to medium enterprises (SMEs), artisan producers and international brands already based in the area. This sectoral strength combined with excellent access to the trunk road network makes the new Park the ideal location for businesses looking for a central location, as well providing expansion opportunities for existing and start-up food and drink producers within Perth and Kinross.

For more information on investment opportunities throughout Perth and Kinross please contact Stuart Oliver on 01738 477959 or visit www.perthfoodanddrinkpark.com.

Main contractor for the site works is local business I&H Brown. Roger Philpott of I&H Brown stated “we have been delighted to be part of this exciting initiative with Perth & Kinross Council and are pleased that delivery of the completed site works has progressed as planned”.

Marketing agents GVA James Barr have been appointed to deal with the flow of enquiries. Proposals are being developed to create a Perth Food & Drink Eco-Innovation Hub. The new facility will

www.perthfoodanddrinkpark.com

w w w. i nves t i n p e r t h . co. u k

IN FEBRUARY THIS year, Perth and Kinross Council launched the Broadband Connection Voucher Scheme which allows businesses to benefit from higher speed broadband.

The programme is offering financial assistance to small and medium sized enterprises in Perth City to help cover connection costs in accessing better broadband. The Connection Voucher Scheme is running to 31st March 2015.

better broadband, helping them to offer customers faster service and increased reliability. The businesses pay the VAT, any amount over the value of the voucher, and the ongoing subscription costs.

Perth is one of 22 cities which successfully bid for UK Government Super Connected Cities funding for improved broadband. The scheme allows businesses to apply for grants up to £3,000 each to cover the costs of installing faster and

For more information please contact Serge Merone or Kirsty Easton on 01738 475364 visit www.investinperth.co.uk/ broadbandvouchers.

The scheme has successfully helped businesses within Perth City receive a better connection.

AMBASSADOR PROGRAMME THE INVEST IN Perth Ambassador Programme is designed to help promote the Perth City Region to the world as a high quality business location and an attractive proposition for inward investment.

The Invest in Perth Ambassadors are a group of business people from the private and public sector across the city region, representing a diverse range of sectors, who promote the city region and its opportunities whenever possible. The programme allows for greater communication and collaboration between Perth & Kinross Council, its public partners and the private sector as we work together to develop the Perth City region as the perfect place to invest, work, live and visit.

The programme was successfully launched at McDiarmid Park back in March, and since then we have signed up senior representatives from 25 local businesses, including Aviva, SSE, Merlin ERD, Stagecoach, Viridor and The Edrington Group. Over time we aim to have a dedicated pool of around 60 Invest in Perth Ambassadors with whom we can successfully work collaboratively with to promote and develop the city region.

Stagecoach Group is one of Scotland’s biggest companies and has been headquartered in Perth for more than 30 years. Director of Communications Steven Stewart, said: “Attracting business and investment to Perth and the wider city region can bring huge benefits for everyone in the area. Making that happen is not just the responsibility of Perth and Kinross Council. All of us in the business community in the area have a role to play in selling to the world the huge advantages our vibrant city and the surrounding area has to offer. “ Graeme Milne of Viridor said “This area has so much to offer businesses of all sizes and I think this programme is a great way of getting that message out there by utilising our existing network of contacts to promote the area and its opportunities across the globe. I think this is also a real opportunity to foster stronger collaboration between businesses in the area, across both public and private sectors and we look forward to playing an active part in the success of this programme.”

For more information on the Ambassador programme please contact Stuart Oliver or Kirsty Easton on 01738 475364 or visit www.investinperth.co.uk/ambassador.

w w w. i nves t i n p e r t h . co. u k

ADVERTISING FEATURE

BROADBAND VOUCHER SCHEME

Photos: Richard Wilkins, Perthshire Advertiser.

SPORTING FOCUS

Ryder Cup captains Tom Watson and Paul McGinley.

RYDER CUP TEES UP £25 MILLION INCOME FOR PERTH AND KINROSS From 23-28 September, Perth and Kinross will host The 2014 Ryder Cup at The Gleneagles Hotel by Auchterarder.

Thousands will flock to Strathearn and surrounding Perthshire for one of the world’s largest sporting events.

But what exactly will it mean for the businesses and people working and living in the Big County? Perth and Kinross Council examines the benefits of turning the global golfing spotlight on Gleneagles.

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n enthusiastic crowd of around 45,000 spectators is expected to flock to the pristine rolling landscape of the PGA Centenary course at Gleneagles each day of the most important event on the global golfing calendar.

And a global TV reach of over 600 million households will tune in to watch Perth and Kinross on the television.

In addition to this, Blairgowrie Golf Club will host the prestigious Junior Ryder Cup, from 22-23 September, which will also be televised.

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as £25 million for the local economy. Consequently, it is vital that we do everything that we can to maximise the economic benefit that this high profile sporting event brings us.

Information, guidance and publicity materials are available to access on Perth and Kinross Council’s website to enable local businesses to plan a profitable Ryder Cup experience: www.pkc.gov.uk/rydercup.

Maximising the benefits locally

What a valuable opportunity to showcase our area to the world and to create a lasting economic, social, cultural and sporting legacy for the future.

It is important that local businesses have access to the opportunities presented by The Ryder Cup and we encourage businesses to welcome The 2014 Ryder Cup to their area.

The projected economic benefit to Scotland of hosting The 2014 Ryder Cup has been estimated at as much as £100 million. For Perth and Kinross, this could generate as much

Perth and Kinross Council has produced a toolkit of Legacy and Ryder Cup-branded publicity materials, which can be used by businesses for free. These materials include window

THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

SPORTING FOCUS numbers of spectators travelling from the rest of the UK and Ireland, North America, Germany and the Netherlands.

Thanks to a long tradition of hospitality, Perth and Kinross has a well-developed tourism sector and strong credentials in both leisure and business tourism.

stickers, balloons, postcards, posters, electronic templates and banners. There has been significant take-up of these materials already, with many communities choosing to dress their areas for the Queen’s Baton Relay, street parties and the Take Pride in Perthshire competition. This toolkit can be downloaded from the Council website. http://www.pkc.gov.uk/legacytoolkit Much planning and activity by local businesses has taken place already, ensuring that Perth and Kinross is in a strong position for September when the championship takes place.

Perth and Kinross Council has made £70,000 available for local communities to bid for initiatives to celebrate 2014, including local environmental enhancements, such as a community dry stone wall feature in Crieff.

We have provided an additional 50% funding for Take a Pride in Perthshire and bloom groups that are using 2014 themes. Nine community groups are developing initiatives, ranging from a drystone wall planting display to celebrate the Ryder Cup in Crieff to a mini golf course made of flowers in Bridge of Earn. These initiatives will help present an attractive image for our thousands of visitors.

To highlight the opportunities surrounding The Ryder Cup and spread the word amongst local businesses, a series of seminars have been delivered by the Council in partnership with The Ryder Cup and VisitScotland to local businesses.

Taking place in Auchterarder, Perth and Blairgowrie, these have proved popular with over 170 businesses represented.

The information that was shared at these seminars is available to view on www.pkc.gov.uk/rydercup Ryder Cup Europe and The Gleneagles Hotel have generously donated prizes for a series of community competitions. One of the categories is for the best business display celebrating the Ryder Cup, with a prize of £200 for a team building event, and a trophy donated by Ryder Cup Europe. There is also a competition for the Golf Club which engages most with the Ryder Cup – with a cash prize and a round of golf on the Ryder Cup course. More information is available from http://www.pkc.gov.uk/article/8370/RyderCup-Community-Competitions. A celebration event at Gleneagles Hotel will take place in September.

Global attention & tourism

As one of the world’s most prestigious sporting events, The Ryder Cup attracts a global audience.

Seventy five different countries will be represented in the crowds at Gleneagles. Two thirds of ticket-holders will travel to Perth and Kinross from outside Scotland, with the largest

Revenue from tourism is worth nearly £400 million annually to the local economy with an estimated 12% of local employment rooted in the tourism and hospitality sector, compared with 7% for Scotland as a whole. Perth and Kinross is home to a range of award-winning and innovative tourism businesses, which capitalise on the area’s location and great environmental qualities.

The Ryder Cup offers an opportunity to promote our area nationally and internationally. We are positioning our area as a ‘must visit’ location and place to invest in, and shining a spotlight on the qualities that make our area so special, from breath-taking scenery and a rich natural larder to a vibrant culture, heritage and our warm welcome.

We are working in partnership with VisitScotland and EventScotland to ensure that Perth and Kinross is promoted to target audiences across a variety of platforms in the run up to the championship and during the event itself. For example, our messages will be shared with visitors via big screens at Park and Ride sites at McDiarmid Park, Balado and Stirling, where frequent buses will take ticket holders direct to the event site, and on 15 Park and Ride buses themselves.

A legacy for the future

We have put infrastructure in place so that beyond The 2014 Ryder Cup, we continue to be in a strong position to maximise the economic impact that The Ryder Cup generates for our area.

Perth and Kinross Council, the Scottish Government and Tactran have together invested £3.8 million in a new road linking the refurbished Gleneagles Station to the A9. Officially opened in June 2014 by the Minister for Transport Keith Brown, this new transport hub improves access and safety for locals and visitors immediately and in the long-term.

Created in December 2013, Golf Perthshire is partnership between Perth and Kinross Council, Scottish Enterprise and VisitScotland. Perth and Kinross plays an important role in making Scotland the home of golf – our scenic golf courses are internationally recognised for their quality and natural beauty. Membership of Golf Perthshire is open to all golf tourism-related businesses in the area, including golf courses, accommodation and visitor attractions. With forty members already, this initiative offers great benefits from marketing campaigns to business development advice.

Together we can maximise the opportunities this year brings, and beyond, to promote our area as a leading golfing destination, and as a great place to visit and invest in. Go to www.golfperthshire.co.uk For further information about The Ryder Cup and opportunities for businesses, please visit www.pkc.gov.uk/rydercup

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

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REFERENDUM SPECIAL

SCOTLAND

DECIDES O

n September 18, the people of Scotland will be asked to determine their own destiny — a simple cross in a box to create a new independent country or cement the ties that bind the existing unified nation.

As momentum builds, Perthshire Chamber of Commerce has spearheaded a series of debates and report deliveries in an effort to inform local employers and employees of both sides of the debate.

With only weeks to go before decision day, InCommerce poses some key questions to both the Better Together and Yes Scotland campaigns to help YOU make up your mind before the historic referendum.

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

REFERENDUM SPECIAL

1. Would the public finances in Scotland be stronger or weaker if there is a Yes vote?

YES SCOTLAND: Stronger. The Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA) recently forecast a deficit for Scotland of around £4 billion in 2016/17 (year one of independence) – equivalent to 6% of spending. The UK figure was £82 billion, or 11%. And while debt will depend on negotiations, expert bodies like the National Institute for Economic and Social Research (NIESR) say using a population share as a guide, Scotland will again be in a stronger position – with a lower debt to GDP ratio.

Thereafter, our finances will benefit from policies tailored to meet the challenges and exploit the opportunities Scotland faces.

BETTER TOGETHER: All evidence shows that our public finances would be in a weaker position under separation. Within the UK, we pool our resources, absorb oil price volatility and can accommodate Scotland’s faster-ageing population.

Independent and impartial experts at the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) forecast that Scotland would have a substantially larger deficit than the UK in the first year of separation. They show that if we were to go it alone then we would face either an 8% cut in public services like schools and hospitals, a 9% increase in the basic rate of income tax or combination of the two. Only by staying in the UK can we ensure we avoid these damaging changes to our public finances.

2. What would the impact on the financial services industry be if Scotland was independent?

YES SCOTLAND: Financial services will benefit from a macroeconomic framework and economic policies specifically designed to enhance Scotland’s reputation as a leading European financial centre.

BETTER TOGETHER: Our banking sector is 12 times the size of the Scottish economy, compared to the UK figure of 4 times. Separation would mean our banks would lose the strength and stability of the UK economy which ensures our banks are safe if there was another financial crisis.

Separation would also cut-off Scottish financial services firms from their primary customer base. 90% of Scottish financial services customers are based in the rest of the UK. With the different regulatory and tax regimes that would develop postseparation, Scottish-based firms would have increased costs and burdens placed on their operations.

3. Given that both sides are claiming that people would be better off under their proposals, what do independent “outside” experts have to say about pensions and tax in an independent Scotland?

YES SCOTLAND: As outlined above, CIPFA forecast a smaller public spending shortfall, while various expert bodies agree our debt to GDP ratio will be smaller.

On pensions, NIESR have said, “independence is unlikely to materially alter the scale of the affordability issue” and that demographic differences “suggest that an independent Scotland may, or perhaps should, make different policy choices with regard to pension eligibility”.

The bigger picture is that: “By international standards Scotland is a wealthy and productive country. There is no doubt that Scotland has the potential to be a successful independent nation” (Fiscal Commission).

BETTER TOGETHER: The impartial IFS says Scotland will face “tough long-term choices” in the face of a more rapidly ageing population.

Gerry Devenney of pensions advice firm Punter Southall said “independence could wreak havoc on pensions in Scotland.”

On tax, the Centre for Public Policy for the Regions has said “there will be a net fiscal loss under independence, looking into the future.” The IFS has said “the public finance challenges facing an independent Scotland would appear to face more substantial challenges than the UK.” It is clear that outside experts say separation would be harmful to Scotland’s pensions and public finances.

The macroeconomic framework for independence was designed by the renowned economists on the Fiscal Commission Working Group. In its own words: “The Working Group stresses the importance of delivering a stable financial framework, both as part of the evolving UK and EU financial services market, given the need to ensure a properly regulated and functioning financial system at the heart of a successful economy”. That advice underpins the Scottish Government’s white paper, “Scotland’s Future”.

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

REFERENDUM SPECIAL

5. Businesses need to know what currency an independent Scotland would use - what certainty is there that we would still be able to use the pound?

4. What would the impact of independence be on Agricultural Subsidies from the European Union?

YES SCOTLAND: We would be entitled to higher levels of support.

Scotland currently receives around 600 million for Pillar I of the Common Agricultural Policy (direct payments): at 130 per hectare, the third lowest share of direct payments in the EU. The EU Multiannual Financial Framework for 20142020, means payments will converge, so all Member States have at least 196 per hectare by 2020. This could have meant an additional 300 million a year for Scottish farming by 2020. Not being an independent member, Scotland did not qualify and will be left with the lowest direct payments in the EU. BETTER TOGETHER: Scotland gets a good deal in farm subsidies in the EU with Scottish farmers receiving more funds per farm than any other part of the UK. Should Scotland break away from the UK, we are not guaranteed to gain immediate membership of the EU and do not know what conditions any membership would be granted under.

Should our membership of the EU be interrupted even temporarily, farm subsidies would cease as there is no treaty authority to pay them. Furthermore, Scotland could not expect to get any increase in subsidies as – within a limited and declining CAP budget - that would involve every other member agreeing to a reduction in their allocation, which is not realistic.

YES SCOTLAND: Scotland will use the pound. We agree with the UK government minister who said “of course there would be a currency union”. The minister informed the Guardian that “saying no to a currency union is obviously a vital part of the no campaign. But everything would change in the negotiations if there were a yes vote”. Professor Anton Muscatelli told the Financial Times “a successful currency union would actually be in the interest of both sides – and especially the rest of the UK”. And, of course, Scotland can use the pound, a fully-tradeable currency, without the permission of Westminster.

BETTER TOGETHER: There are no ifs or buts: if we leave the UK, we leave the strength and security of the UK pound. All three of the three main UK parties have ruled out a Eurozone-style currency union with Scotland.

6. Would independence have an impact on our retail sector? i.e. any change in VAT rates or food prices in our supermarkets?

YES SCOTLAND: With economic policy designed for Scotland, we can make more of our economic strengths and grow our economy more quickly. This means more money being spent in our shops and with our businesses.

We can save £600 million by no longer paying for things like nuclear weapons or politicians at Westminster – money we can invest in delivering economic growth, eg reduced corporation tax, better childcare, and lower employer NI costs. Transport costs could be reduced if we choose to reduce fuel duties (a policy with wider support in Scotland than at Westminster), keeping food prices down.

BETTER TOGETHER: Common sense tells you that it costs more to transport a tin of beans to Inverness or Stornoway than it does to Birmingham or Manchester. However, everyone in the UK pays the same prices in big supermarkets. Higher operating costs in Scotland are currently absorbed throughout the UK. This may change if we were to separate. The Chief Executives of Morrisons, Sainsburys and Asda have all warned that separation may add costs to Scots’ weekly shop.

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

REFERENDUM SPECIAL

7. What would be the impact on our tourism sector if Scotland wins independence particularly given that by far our largest market is the rest of the UK? YES SCOTLAND: Our tourism sector will benefit from policies designed to attract more business. Westminster policies aren’t the right ones for our tourism in Scotland. The current Scottish Government proposes reducing Air Passenger Duty by half, and eventually abolishing it. According to one study APD will cost Scotland £200 million in tourism spend by 2016.

Others have suggested cutting VAT on tourism, something other EU countries have done. Dublin gained 1,000 jobs in the restaurant sector alone from this measure.

The referendum has attracted extraordinary international attention, and independence will increase our profile further – attracting visitors from rUK and across the globe.

BETTER TOGETHER: As Stephen Leckie, chairman of the Scottish Tourism Alliance, has said, “The long and short of it is we have just not seen a proper business case for independence.” A solid majority of the organization’s members have said they will be voting “No” in September. They know that as part of the UK we are able to use the fantastic diplomatic and trade network available to us to promote Scotland across the world and have access to a home market over ten times our size.

8. What arrangements would there be for passports and border controls between Scotland and the rest of the UK? YES SCOTLAND: There would be no border controls, just as between UK and Ireland. The Scottish Government will support dual citizenship, as the UK government does, so there will be no effect on your British citizenship and the right to hold a British passport. You can apply for a Scottish passport from Independence Day and/or continue to use your UK passport.

(The Treasury Scotland Analysis Paper on “Borders and Citizenship” acknowledges – “the UK has historically been tolerant of plural nationalities, and therefore it is likely that it would be possible for an individual to hold both British and Scottish citizenship”).

BETTER TOGETHER: In the event of a vote for separation, the governments of the continuing UK and Scotland would need to negotiate whether, and if so how, any of the benefits associated with British citizenship would continue to apply to British citizens living in an independent Scottish state. What is clear is that if a separate Scotland pursues a radically different immigration policy to the rest of the UK then border controls will be necessary.

9. Would independence create additional opportunities for export trade or restrict it and act as a trade barrier?

YES SCOTLAND: With independent overseas representation, we’ll promote our products and tackle trade barriers Westminster doesn’t prioritise, like beef exports to Asia. We can also market Scottish exports on an integrated basis and provide more targeted support for companies wishing to start or expand exports.

91% of Scottish exports go to 21 countries. We’ll have a presence in each – and up to 70 others, working on increasing exports.

Equally, we’ll protect the integrated nature of the UK market, and that underpins the thinking of the proposals put forward by the Fiscal Commission and the Scottish Government.

BETTER TOGETHER: Separation would erect an entirely unnecessary barrier between us and our largest trading partner. 65% of Scottish exports go to the rest of the UK, almost double what we sell to the rest of the world combined. These changes would trigger a border effect which has been shown to reduce flows of trade, labour and capital. This effect occurs even when there is no physical border between countries and trade agreements are in place. For example, it has been calculated that the US-Canadian border reduces trade by 44% between those two countries.

Overseas, we benefit from the UK’s network of trade offices around the world, supporting Scottish products and businesses. Organisations like the Scotch Whisky Association have explained why these trade links matter and how they have contributed to the success of Scottish exports.

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

REFERENDUM SPECIAL

10. Would prospects for Renewable Energy be strengthened or weakened by a Yes vote?

YES SCOTLAND: Strengthened. With independence we can set our own incentives for renewables. Westminster’s decision to invest in nuclear and set low level incentives for renewables lead five leading academics to conclude that independence will best allow Scotland to achieve its renewables targets, and to keep bills lower. And 16 energy experts from across the UK wrote to the Herald to argue that “Scotland needs greater energy powers to escape …economically and politically bankrupt nuclear power and to counteract declining support from the UK government for Scottish priorities for renewable energy”.

Those powers will only come after Yes. BETTER TOGETHER: By leaving the UK our renewable sector would be damaged by the loss of UK-wide subsidies and the single UK energy market. Scotland generates about 10% of UK electricity yet we receive 28% of renewables subsidies. UK Government analysis has shown that losing these subsidies would add up to £189 to the average yearly household energy bill in Scotland.

The UK single market provides access to a single market with millions of customers. It allows Scotland to maximise its potential in renewable energy, while ensuring the costs are spread across a UK-wide consumer base.

11. Scotland has a proven track record for attracting foreign investment - would that position be strengthened or weakened by independence?

YES SCOTLAND: Strengthened. We will have greater powers to make Scotland an attractive place to invest. For example, we will have full powers over taxation - we can build a more simple and less costly tax system and consider cutting corporation tax. And with full control over spending, we will be able to find new ways to invest in the modern infrastructure we need to attract foreign direct investment.

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

BETTER TOGETHER: Scotland is an attractive destination for FDI as part of the UK. However, if we leave the UK we would lose many of the features that make this so, and the UK networks that promote Scotland abroad.

Our access to a home market over 10 times our size, a unified regulatory structure with the UK, strong and stable currency and unified labour market all make Scotland a fantastic investment destination. These are significant positives for foreign firms.

12. We hear of a proposed Scottish Defence Force under independence - what would happen to Battalions within the Royal Regiment of Scotland in general and, more particularly, Perthshire’s own Black Watch and the preservation of its name?

YES SCOTLAND: The units of the Scottish Army will carry on the names, identities and traditions of Scotland’s regiments, including those lost in the defence reorganisation of 2006.

The Scottish Government’s White Paper sets out that units mainly recruited in Scotland will form the core of the Scottish Defence Force during the period of transition. We will see more armed forces personnel based in Scotland, with the knock on benefit this will bring to the economy and family life. Current personnel will be able to choose to stay within the British Army or transfer to the Scottish Defence Force.

BETTER TOGETHER: The nationalists plan to create a completely scaled-down Scottish Army. While they have spoken about maintaining the identities of the RRS battalions, it is clear that they would be unrecognisable and a fraction of their current size.

Quite simply, given the SNP’s proposed defence budget and number of soldiers, the figures just don’t work out.

As part of the UK, Scotland benefits from every penny of the UK’s £34 billion-a-year defence budget. The nationalists’ proposal to spend £2.5 billion is only about 7% of the combined UK budget for defence and less than countries such as Denmark and Norway. This means our regiments would be less well-funded if we separate.

REFERENDUM SPECIAL

13. What would the key gains or biggest drawbacks be for small local businesses under independence.

YES SCOTLAND: Gains could include lower corporation tax, a greater National Insurance employment allowance, a supportive exports strategy, or a cut to APD or VAT on tourism. The key overall benefit is that economic policy will be designed in Scotland, for Scotland, and where small Scottish businesses have far more influence. As the Fiscal Commission said: “The issue is not that Scotland is necessarily burdened with poor policies but that the centralisation of economic policy levers means that specific policies – particularly in key areas – cannot be tailored to the specific structure, opportunities and challenges of the Scottish economy”. A Yes fixes that.

BETTER TOGETHER: Losing the UK pound would increase borrowing costs across Scotland. The impartial National Institute for Economic and Social Research have calculated that interest rates could go up by 1-2% in Scotland if we left the UK. Also, energy bills would rise due to the loss of the UKwide renewable energy subsidy which could increase costs significantly for local businesses. The extra strain on public finances brought about by separation could also result in higher taxes on local businesses.

T

R A

D E

14. Would an independent Scotland continue to prove as appealing a base for companies whose customer/trade base is south of the Border?

YES SCOTLAND: By putting in place the right policies, then of course we will continue to prove appealing as a base. According to the FT we are among the twenty wealthiest nations on the planet, and the Office for National Statistics recently confirmed we have the best educated population in the EU. Who wouldn’t want to do business in this sort of environment? The proposals of the Fiscal Commission and Scottish Government are designed to make Scotland an attractive location for investment and business growth.

If Scotland was to separate from the UK then our unified regulatory and taxation system would be broken apart. Legal and fiscal differences would develop that cost businesses more for the added administrative burden. As such, it is far easier for employers that mainly serve the rest of the UK to be based there.

15. What would an independent Scotland cost to set up and how would it impact on the Scottish taxpayer?

YES SCOTLAND: Professor Dunleavy of the London School of Economics estimated that set-up costs would be constrained to “up to £200 million” - and rejected alternative UK government numbers as “bizarrely inaccurate”. Spending over the next decade on tax collection systems would deliver long term benefits and savings, enabling us to create a more streamlined system with lower compliance costs for business. Additionally, we currently spend money paying for departments and government functions elsewhere in the UK; with a Yes this money will be spent here, boosting our economy, providing new jobs, and creating a range of new opportunities for Scottish business.

BETTER TOGETHER: The simple fact is that the Scottish Government – who are best placed to estimate this – have not done the work to calculate this figure. Meanwhile in public they have made conflicting statements in the past about whether this would be done.

Two experts have calculated the price of replicating what we already have to be between £600m and £2 billion – with costs expected to reach £800 for every Scottish household.

The UK Government has shown how separate tax and welfare systems and IT projects will cost hundreds of millions of pounds to establish.

The nationalists know separating then starting again on our welfare system, tax system and public services will cause a huge financial black-hole in their plans. That is why they are not prepared to share realistic figures with the Scottish people.

BETTER TOGETHER: There is no doubt that Scottish firms trading with England would be significantly disadvantaged by separation. At the moment, we have a single domestic market. Borders, even where free trade agreements are in place, harm trade: academic studies over decades have clearly demonstrated this point.

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

BUSINESS SUPPORT

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Funded by Scottish Enterprise, the Interface Rural Team support businesses in rural areas to become more innovative by connecting them to academics who can stimulate cost effective R&D. Innovation in your business means doing something new, different, smarter or better that will make a positive difference. Using digital technology, for example, to improve a service or increase reach which will in turn increase your market share.

Innovation Vouchers are a great first step for any new or established business to make use of the world class facilities available in Scottish universities and research institutions. An Interface innovation voucher buys the business £5000 worth of time/resources with their chosen university; all they need to do is match this in kind, e.g. time spent. This means organisations can access academic support quickly and efficiently with little or no investment making research projects, feasibility studies and a whole host of other services easily accessible.

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

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FRAMES GALLERY Established for 35 years We are one of Scotland’s foremost galleries with an ever-changing programme of exhibitions throughout the year.

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Big Padlock’s owners Storage Future are specialists in the design and construction of self storage facilities and jumped at the chance to open in Perth. Big Padlock Self Storage offer professional storage solutions for new and existing customers in the Perthshire area.

They are conveniently located just off the Dunkeld Road in Arran Road Business Park, just minutes from the M90 and A9.

They provide professional storage solutions across every business sector and specialise in tailoring bespoke solutions to individual businesses and domestic customers alike.

They offer units from 20sq ft up to 150 sq ft as well as vehicle and caravan storage in their secure, dry, indoor units.

They take pride in being able to offer a truly local service, customised to your individual needs. Whether it’s archive storage or longer term storage for your business or home, they can help.

Their flexible rental options can be anything from one week to years!

Managers, Morag Whyte and Anna Teaney go on to say that Big Padlock’s extensive experience in the storage industry ensures a hassle free, professional approach.

Glebe House Sara Wood has just launched Glebe House – the website is live www. glebehousedunning.co.uk and bookings are already coming in!

GLEBE HOUSE Dunning Perthshire PH2 0RJ Tel: 07761 670681 Email: info@glebehousedunning.co.uk Web: www.glebehousedunning.co.uk Contact: Sara Wood

Glebe House, a lovely traditional manse with a mature secluded garden, is offering guests two newly renovated and beautifully stylish suites. Located in the charming conservation village of Dunning, on the way to Auchterarder, it’s perfect for those who want a short break to either see friends or family in Perthshire or for visitors wanting to enjoy the many attractions of our lovely area.

W hat ’s different about this accommodation is that it has all the

advantages of a bed and breakfast experience, with a great breakfast and friendly host to help guests enjoy their stay in Perthshire, with additional living space available to guests all day. Sara and husband Dave have newly renovated the historic house to provide guests not only with a comfortable bedroom and luxury en-suite bath or shower-room, but also their own individual, beautifully decorated private lounge. If guests want a lazy morning, what could be better than having a continental breakfast in their own lounge, snuggly wrapped in their Glebe House dressinggown. Alternatively guests can enjoy a serious full breakfast featuring the home-grown and

home-made ingredients in the traditional dining room.

With only two suites, this is small and private. The renovation of the rooms has taken over a year and care has been taken to keep true to the traditional features of this 1862 St. Serf ’s manse but with a modern stylish edge.

Morrocco Media Original, engaging and creative corporate and adventure videos, and world leading adventure sport video analysis. That’s what Morrocco Media does - and they love what they do!

MORROCCO MEDIA Leerie’s Den, 2 Coupar Angus Road, Blairgowrie, PH10 6NS Tel: 01250 872017/ 07764408390 Email: info@morroccomedia.com Web: www.morroccomedia.com Contact: Stefan Morrocco

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Morrocco Media originated from the highly creative, competitive and fast-paced adventure sports sector, where even the film makers are pushing the boundaries of what is possible, and that sets them apart from their competition.

They have 15 years dedicated filming experience, shooting, editing and producing everything from short corporate promotional videos to feature-length adventure films. They cater for all filming requirements, including, but not

THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

limited to, event, promotional, how-to and commercial videos, as well as full-length films.

Morrocco Media’s clients like and return to them because they are filmmakers who are passionate about and love what they do, know how to make unique and inspiring videos that motivate and sell, and have a cinematic approach to their work, whatever the platform. Their clients include everyone from the BBC to small local businesses looking to promote their service or products.

They lead the way in adventure sport performance analysis, working with World Cup-level teams across the world, development-level athletes

and weekend warriors just wanting to improve. They provide sports video analysis for main-stream sports too, so if your golf swing could do with an M.O.T., these are the guys to speak to.

Morrocco Media would love to chat about your corporate video or sports video analysis requirements, or if you have an amazing adventure sports film idea! Give them a call, and put your business in focus!

NEW MEMBER PROFILES

Anna Wilson PR With clients all over Scotland and Europe, Anna Wilson PR is a passionate PR and Marketing ‘mini agency’ working across lifestyle brands and non-profit organisations. Anna and her team excel in developing strategic and creative communication and marketing plans for brands, ensuring clients experience genuine enthusiasm, flexibility and imaginative campaigns.

ANNA WILSON PR Littlefold Farm House Crieff, Perthshire PH7 3NY Tel: 07828 889363 Email: anna@annawilsonpr.co.uk Web: www.annawilsonpr.co.uk Contact: Anna Wilson

Building relationships with media, business partners and sponsors is key to letting the world know about your brand. They predominately build these relationships across digital platforms but with a good foundation of traditional media and marketing techniques.

Anna Wilson PR has a great network of bloggers and journalists and enjoys developing clients’ social media platforms while integrating marketing with collaborations and engaging promotions.

The team delivers engaging projects efficiently, on time, within budget and to the highest standards.

From designing and publishing your newsletters, managing your blogs and social media channels to even developing your online brand identity and website, your digital world is covered.

There is a wealth of entrepreneurial spirit outside of central business hubs and Anna Wilson PR takes pride in working closely with independent brands and organisations to develop and grow their businesses.

Key Talent Partners Eleanor Yearwood founded Key Talent Partners in 2001 after discovering her passion was to work with people to enable them to improve their ability to lead and develop high performing teams.

KEY TALENT PARTNERS Bank House Alyth, Perthshire PH11 8AH Tel: 01828 632199 Email: eleanor@keytalent-partners.com Web: www.keytalent-partners.com Contact: Eleanor Yearwood

This seemed like a win-win for everyone involved said Eleanor.

The client would be positively impacted; the employees would be positively impacted; the leader would be positively impacted and the bottom line would be positively impacted.

Over the last 13 years, Eleanor has developed a ‘strengths focused’ approach, working with organisations in small, medium and large businesses. This doesn’t

deny that people have weaknesses, but rather than looking to develop these areas, Eleanor’s approach is to focus on where people are energized in their role and do they get opportunities to utilise their strengths at least 75% of their working day?

When people have opportunities to use their areas of strengths, studies show that they are more engaged and committed. Loyalty to the organisation increases as well as productivity and profits.

hospitality and leisure industry, so she has first hand experience of leading teams.

At Key Talent Partners they offer a number of solutions tailored to your organisational requirements and budget. They help companies increase their profits and decrease the aggravations that niggle them and take their attention away from where it needs to be.

Eleanor has 13 years experience of Executive Coaching and team facilitation in a variety of different industries and 17 years experience as a General Manager within the

AliBob @ Cairn O’Mohr “AliBob @ Cairn O’Mohr” is the new look café at the Cairn O’Mohr winery in Errol.

Run by Ali and Bob Abercrombie, who both live in Errol, it is the first time that the café has operated independently, opening its doors for the first time on 19th March 2014.

ALIBOB @ CAIRN O’MOHR Cairn O’Mohr Winery East Inchmichael, Errol, PH2 7SP Tel: 07805 588657 Email: alibob@btconnect.com Web: www.facebook.com/

alibobatcairnomohr Contact: Alison Abercrombie

Bob is originally from Inchture but he and Ali have been overseas for the past decade working for the United Nations and European Union in Kosovo. Returning home to Scotland provided the ideal opportunity to pursue a long-held ambition to move into the food sector and the opening at Cairn O’Mohr was perfectly timed.

Ali is a former Masterchef regional finalist and is looking forward to experimenting with the use of the Cairn O’Mohr products in dishes offered at the café. Already the Steamin’ Scones, with sultanas soaked in raspberry wine, sell out daily and the AliBob Chicken BLT is a house special that is developing its own dedicated fan base!

licensed. Other services offered include outside catering, cupcake orders and takeaway food.

AliBob @ Cairn O’Mohr offers customers hot and cold food that is hand-made by Ali from scratch using the best local and seasonal produce from around Perthshire and Scotland. The café is open every day except Tuesdays, from 9am to 6pm. It can also be hired for private catered events and is fully

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

NEW MEMBER PROFILES

Starbucks Coffee Company Starbucks Coffee Company arrived onto the vibrant Perth coffee scene on 8th April 2014. With a history of serving specialty coffee for over 40 years, Starbucks aims to provide a unique and individual coffee experience for its customers. The Starbucks mission is to inspire and nurture the human spirit – one person, one cup and one neighbourhood at a time. With every cup, Starbucks strives to bring both heritage and an exceptional experience to life.

STARBUCKS 189 High Street Perth PH1 5UN Tel: 07971 151555 Email: jjohara@me.com Web: www.starbucks.co.uk Contact: JJ O’Hara

Starbucks is proud to be part of the Perth community. Since opening, the store has taken an active role in building relationships within the local community as well as

participating in ‘Beautiful Perth’, a local organisation which maintains and enhances the local area.

From revitalising tired flower beds to working with local schools, this is a truly fantastic local organisation.

Going forward, Starbucks Perth will remain an energetic supporter of local community groups and looks to enhance the role of the store within the local Perthshire community.

Working closely with another local charity CHAS, Starbucks has participated with active fundraising. From the knitting of cup sleeves, to zip wiring down the High Street, the store has raised over £400 during its first three months alone. With lots of activities planned including a fun filled charity evening in August, incorporating local performers, the store remains committed to actively supporting this invaluable resource.

roduction

ogo is the core element within he Smiths Gore brand.

ture, be they printed or digital, yle and make up of the logo; for ues, make up and integrity must all times.

Smiths Gore

ogo is available in various rom the Marketing department.

5

SMITHS GORE 13 Marshall Place Perth PH2 8AH Tel: 01738 479180 Email: alastair.deighton@smithsgore.co.uk Web: www.smithsgore.co.uk Contact: Alastair Deighton

The Smiths Gore team in Perth is delighted to be a member of the Chamber of Commerce. The firm is the leading provider of rural property services within the UK, operating within the rural marketplace and urban fringe and managing over two million acres of land.

With over 160 years’ experience they are recognised today as a dynamic and diverse business.

As a multi-disciplinary practice, Smiths Gore has grown over the last ten years both organically and by acquisition resulting in the opening of new offices in key locations, including Marshall Place in Perth in 2012. The firm

now operates from five offices in Scotland with a total of 32 offices and 18 estate offices across the UK, complemented by affiliations in the USA, the Caribbean and the Far East.

Property, estate and farm management forms the core strength of Smiths Gore’s business. Consistent growth and development has enabled the firm to offer a wide range of property consultancy services which meet the challenges imposed by the rural landscape and economy. The team looks forward to meeting you and, hopefully, to working with and for you in years to come.

SOAPRANOS Soapranos is currently based in Perth. They are not new to the cleaning game – their combined experience totals 12 years. In fact, they’ve been at it long enough to see the technologies available evolve.

Being fully trained and CRB checked, they stand by their word that they will not let you down as they take great pride in their work.

SOAPRANOS 2 Dower Place, Perth PH1 5HU Tel: 01738 245074 Email: soapranos@mail.com Web: www.soapranos.co Contact: Sabian and Fraser

38

Sabian and Fraser (Soapranos partnership) provide a friendly and trustworthy service to all their customers. They aim to provide a cleaning service whatever your needs, no matter how small or large your premises.

Their scope of services includes aeroplane valeting, solar panel cleaning as well as commercial

THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

cleaning services. They recently acquired a contract at Scone Airport to valet their aeroplanes.

For this they have a range of knowledge and a fantastic selection of EC approved aerospace products to suit all the different types of diverse materials required to be cleaned and polished.

Another recent contract has been acquired with fellow Chamber member Bell Ingram for their events throughout Scotland.

Their service offers a swift and efficient turn around time to meet your individual needs, taking into consideration your budget and their competitive rates make it affordable. Their work is their guarantee of satisfaction.

They offer a complete tailormade service to meet the clients’ requirements and all cleaning is completed with that white glove approach, to rejuvenate your required service.

NEW NEWMEMBERS’ MEMBER PROFILES

The Rose House at McEwans

Flowers.

Pure & Simple

THE ROSE HOUSE AT MCEWANS 27 St John Street Perth PH1 5SH Tel: 01738 580050 Email: info@therosehouseatmcewens.co.uk Web: www.therosehouseatmcewens.co.uk Contact: Audrey Maestri

The Rose House at McEwens is a new florist and gift shop situated in St Johns Street Perth. Audrey has over 25 years experience in all aspects of floristry, gained from working in places such as Bath, Glasgow, Inverness and Germany.

This has given her immense knowledge of the trade, including weddings, birthdays, anniversary gifts and funeral tributes, all of which are available to order online, telephone or in shop. They also offer corporate clients a bespoke service.

They stock a unique selection of quality home accessories from European supplier Riverdale,

Bombay D uck of L ondon, Lily Flame candles and more.

They have a range of gourmet chocolates from Iain Burnett The Highland Chocolatier and, coming soon, a carefully selected range of Wines, Champagnes and Malt Whiskies, all available for delivery or collection in shop.

Weddings being their speciality, they have a dedicated wedding consultation area, with evening appointments available. All Bridal Bouquets, Button Holes and Corsages etc are done to a high standard of expertise using only the best quality flowers straight from Holland.

Pertemps Scotland

PERTEMPS SCOTLAND Unit 22, Prospect 111, Gemini Crescent Dundee Technology Park Dundee DD2 1SW Tel: 01382 221234 Email: dane.mcgregor@pertemps.co.uk Web: www.pertemps.co.uk Contact: Dane McGregor

Pertemps have been helping people find the right jobs and helping employers find the right people since 1961.

Pertemps have the experience, advice and contacts you need to ensure you get the people you need at the time that you need them.

The reason why Pertemps has been so successful is simple: Pertemps know the recruitment business inside out. Permanent, temporary, or contract positions, private or public sector, Pertemps do their utmost to find the right people for the right jobs.

With over 100 branches throughout the UK and eight in Scotland covering an area from Inverness to Dumfries & Galloway, Pertemps is never more than a few miles from your business. They also know the local area and recruitment market and have a database of locally sourced and recruited staff to suit your business needs.

Commitment has allowed them to build an impressive client list, from major organisations to small businesses, that trust Pertemps to find the very best people.

If you are looking for new staff, whether just one or volumes,

Pertemps don’t just recruit within these sectors, they also know them thoroughly.

Pertemps has developed an enviable track record over the years and staff have achieved impressive results by using their industry knowledge. By understanding the specific business needs of Pertemps clients, Pertemps can help find the right fit for your vacancy.

Pertemps specialise in Office Support, Accounts & Finance, Warehouse & Production, Call Centre, Driving, Engineering and IT recruitment. What sets Pertemps apart is the fact that

Lindsays Lindsays is an award winning law firm that combines a high quality service with legal expertise to deliver the best possible outcomes and results for individuals, families and businesses.

LINDSAYS Seabraes House, 18 Greenmarket Dundee DD1 4QB Tel: 01382 224112 Email: KateWyatt@lindsays.co.uk Web: www.lindsays.co.uk Contact: Kate Wyatt

They work with a wide range of organisations, from high-growth start-ups, to family businesses and blue-chips. Whatever the sector and scale of the business, they provide tailored, specialist advice, coupled with a commitment to getting results.

Lindsays also work with individuals and families, helping them plan more effectively for the journey through life and advising on specific issues as they arise.

They have 27 partners and 200 staff working from offices in Dundee, Edinburgh, Glasgow, North Berwick and Jedburgh.

As a full-service firm, Lindsays have the resources and specialist knowledge to look after all of their clients’ legal needs. They are a mid-size firm with a culture of open communication, with specialists in different areas working closely together to deliver seamless, multiple services.

• • • • • • • • • • • •

Lindsays provide legal advice in relation to the following:

• •

• • • •

• • • •

Banking & Finance Charities Commercial Property Construction

Corporate & Technology Dispute Resolution & Litigation Debt Recovery Services Employment Family Businesses Family Law Financial Planning Franchising Insolvency & Recovery Liquor Licensing & Gambling Private Landlord & Tenant Powers of Attorney & Guardianship Renewable Energy Residential Property Services Rural Property Tax Trusts Wills & Executries

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

PEOPLE FINDERS RECRUITMENT SCOTLAND’S MOST COST EFFECTIVE RECRUITMENT SOLUTIONS

LOW COST RECRUITMENT SOLUTIONS RECRUITMENT PACKAGES TO SUIT YOUR BUDGET TRANSPARENT PRICING STRUCTURE – THE PRICE YOU SEE IS THE PRICE YOU PAY NO COSTLY LONG TERM CONTRACTS

ADVERTISE

ANY JOB

APPLICATIONS

MANAGED

YOUR JOB VACANCY ONLINE FOR

ANYWHERE IN THE UK

WITH SCREENING FOR YOU

RECRUITMENT SOLUTIONS

£147

plus VAT

£147

plus VAT

£270

plus VAT

£399

plus VAT

People Finders Recruitment = Right Person = Right Culture and behaviours

01738 474 274 enquiries@peoplefindersrecruitment.com

= People Finders Solutions

Welcome to People Finders Recruitment We recognise micro and small businesses need to have a tight control on their budgets and costs and the decision to recruit does not come lightly. With rising job advertising costs, recruitment agency fees and the ever increasing job boards to select from, the recruitment cycle and costs continue to grow upwards.

Our Mission: is to provide ethical and cost effective advertising and resourcing solutions for employers. We strive to exceed the expectations of employers, candidates and our team.

Why us?

• • • • • Recruiting Talented People with the RIGHT: • • • • • • Low Almost 40 years recruitment industry experience Respect for assignment deadlines

Continually seek to provide innovative solutions for our clients Specialist consultants across all markets and disciplines Customer focus is our mantra

Qualifications Skill Set

Experience Culture

Behaviour Attitude

FOR YOU!

Cost : High Value Recruit ment Solutions

PEOPLE FINDERS RECRUITMENT GET IN TOUCH Tel: 01738 474 274 or visit us at: Balmoral Suite, Leonard Street, Perth PH2 8HA Email us at: recruit@peoplefindersrecruitment.com (Job ads contact) enquiries@peoplefindersrecruitment.com (Ordinary contact) www.peoplefindersrecruitment.com

Strathallan School Open Mornings Boarding and day pupils aged 9 to 18

To allow you to see the opportunities that Strathallan has to offer, come along to our Open Mornings.* JUNIOR: DATE: TIME:

(entry from aged 9 to 13) Saturday 20th Sept 2014 10am start

SENIOR: DATE: TIME:

(entry from aged 13+) Saturday 4th October 2014 10am start

GENERAL: (entry from aged 9+) DATE: Saturday 7th March 2015 TIME: 10am start RSVP:

Call Felicity Legge on 01738 812 546 or email her on admissions@strathallan.co.uk or fill in the form on the website.

*If none of these dates suit you, please call to arrange an alternative day.

www.strathallan.co.uk

Forgandenny, Perth PH2 9EG | T: 01738 812 546 E: admissions@strathallan.co.uk

perthtravelclinic medical travel clinic Our clinic is staffed by experienced registered nurses who are able to provide – travel risk assessments, vaccinations, anti-malarial medication and travel health products.

Consultations by appointment

t: 01577 527597 or 07967 622186 e: enquiries@jdrhealthcare.co.uk

www.perthtravelclinic.co.uk

ARH ACCOUNTING SERVICES

BUSINESS SUPPORT

IMMIGRATION LAW AND LANDLORDS

M

any employers who have non EU staff find it difficult to keep up to date with ever changing visa and immigration rules. With the Immigration Act 2014 seeking to extend such regulation to private landlords and their agents, those in the private lettings market are about to face similar challenges.

A modern

‘Can Do’

approach to accountancy AMANDA HENDERSON ACCA, ICPA T: 01738 472012 M:07720 447595 amanda@arhaccountantservices.co.uk www.arhaccountantservicesltd.co.uk

Friarton Road, PERTH 01738 580 077 Camperdown, DUNDEE 01382 827 746 Claypotts, DUNDEE 01382 736 762

Commercial and domestic storage

Commercial and domestic storage Secure shredding service Commercial and domestic storage Secure shredding service Archive storage Secure shredding service Archive storage Special offer for Chamber Archive storage Members Special offer for Chamber Members For further details please call Special offer for Chamber Members For further details please call 01738 580077 For further details please call

This year saw the introduction of the controversial Immigration Act 2014 which is now formally on the statute book (although not yet in force). Its passage through the Westminster Parliament was controversial, partly due to plans to impose a duty on private landlords and letting agents to check the immigration status of their tenants and occupants.

Any landlord or letting agent who fails to carry out the appropriate checks on tenants and other occupants of their properties will face civil penalties of up to £3,000 per ‘illegal’ occupant. Although the scheme appears to be aimed at ‘rogue landlords’, all private sector landlords will be regulated.

The details as to how the scheme will work in practice remain unclear. However, given the scheme is modelled on the illegal working regulations that employers currently have, we can speculate that there will be tough enforcement of the scheme with Immigration Officers raiding properties and ‘auditing’ all landlords. The scheme is due to be piloted in London later this year and all the necessary legislation is on the statute book to allow for a UK-wide roll out should the pilot be deemed successful. Landlords should watch this space.

Provided by Jamie Kerr, Partner Immigration Law Tel: 01382 346800 Email: jkerr@thorntons-law.co.uk Web: www.thorntons-law.co.uk

www.keepsafe-storage.com 01738 580077 580077 01738 www.keepsafe-storage.com www.keepsafe-storage.com

Jamie Kerr, Partner Immigration Law, Thorntons Solicitors

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

MURRAYSHALL Murrayshall HOUSE House HOTEL Hotel & GOLF Golf COURSES Courses

Set within our own 350 acre estate, Murrayshall boasts a 41 bedroom 4 star hotel with two restaurants and two 18 holes golf courses. Our luxurious rooms, relaxing lounges and award winning food, complemented by two great courses, makes an ideal venue for your golfing break. For groups we can offer private dining facilities and for companies, event management for your golf day.

Offers so good you will want to keep them to yourself… if you can!

Golf & Roast Enjoy 18 holes of golf over either of our two golf courses followed by a traditional roast platter from £20.00 pp.

MARCH/APRIL £20.00 Lynedoch or £25.00 Murrayshall MAY/JUNE £40.00 Lynedoch or £60.00 Murrayshall JULY £30.00 Lynedoch or £40.00 Murrayshall AUGUST/SEPTEMBER £40.00 Lynedoch or £60.00 Murrayshall

Residential Golf Breaks Escape to Murrayshall, a luxury four star country house hotel set within 350 acres of beautiful Perthshire country side. Surrounded by two 18 hole golf courses, Murrayshall is the ideal choice for a relaxing few days of good food, excellent golf at a stunning location.

From £120.00 per person per night, inclusive of a three course dinner in the Stutts Bar, bed and breakfast and one round of golf per nights stay. Valid until 30th September 2014.

One free place in every 12 golfers in your party

Golf Days We have a number of catering inclusive packages available for groups of 8 or more players, played over either or both courses on the same day from £40.00 per person.

One free place in every 8 golfers in your party

To book your next golf event at Murrayshall contact us on 01738 551 171 or

golf@murrayshall.co.uk Murrayshall House Hotel & Golf Courses, Scone, Perthshire PH2 7PH

www.murrayshall.co.uk

BUSINESS SUPPORT

HOW FLEXIBLE ARE YOUR EMPLOYEES?

F

rom June 30 this year any employee with six months service can request flexible working. Flexible working covers many non-standard working arrangements – some familiar, some less so. With likely increased requests for flexible working, planning is needed to avoid complaints and tribunal claims. Good practice recommendations include: 1. Create and distribute a fair procedure based on the ACAS Code of Practice. A fair procedure will include: requests to be written and detail the arrangement requested, when it will start and how likely problems can be resolved; holding a meeting to discuss; decisions to be reached as soon as possible; employees allowed to be accompanied to meetings; and to appeal if requests are refused.

  

2. All requests should be channelled into this formal procedure as only one formal request can be made each year. This will minimise disruption from repeated informal requests.

3. Employers should consider requests fairly, balancing the needs of the business against the benefits to the employee of agreeing the request. Requests can only be refused on limited grounds set out in the legislation and ACAS Code. These include additional costs, inability to reorganise work among existing staff or detrimental effect on the ability to meet customer demand. Employees should know that agreed changes will be permanent, with no automatic right to revert to previous working patterns.

4. Timing is important. Unless otherwise agreed, requests should be dealt with promptly and within three months of the request.

5. Respond in writing and clearly describe the arrangement agreed or if it is refused, the reasons why and offer an appeal.

Provided by Kate Wyatt, Senior Associate, Employment Email: Katewyatt@lindsays.co.uk Tel: 01382 224112 Web: www.lindsays.co.uk

Kate Wyatt, Senior Associate, Lindsays

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

We have the right security solutions for your business

Video Watchman Systems take an integrated approach to the ongoing safety and security of your business. With over 26 years in the security industry we are able to apply our considerable experience to meet our business customers’ wide-ranging needs.

Our pricing is highly competitve and we use our expertise to provide forward thinking, innovative solutions to tailor the best security and network transmission systems to your business.

We supply, install, maintain and repair CCTV, access control, door entry, autodoors, intruder alarms, fire alarms, fibre optic cabling and wireless networks.

A number of high profile businesses use our services, including Glasgow HA, Dundee CC, Aberdeen CC, Caledonia HA, Braehead, Silverburn, Princes Square and many more.

We are NACOSS Gold and Safe Contractor accredited.

Contact our highly skilled team today.

Head Office 01236 727233

Dundee Office 01382 889688

13 Napier Ct, Cumbernauld G68 0LG

7a Coldside Road, Dundee, DD3 8DF

www.videowatchmansystems.co.uk

Chartered Quantity Surveyors & Building Cost Consultants since 1953.

19 Marshall Place, Perth PH2 8AG

(01738) 441144

Award-winning customer service:

Established in 1875

Investments and income arising from them can fall in value and you may lose some or all of the amount you have invested.

Members of the London Stock Exchange Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Redmayne-Bentley LLP is a Limited Liability Partnership Registered in England and Wales No: OC344361 Registered Office: 9 Bond Court, Leeds LS1 2JZ. VAT No: GB 165 8810 81

CDM Co-ordinators, advising clients on health and safety duties in construction.

2 King James Place I Perth I 01738 625619

www.raogg.com

fairways

Est. 1984

Working with you - for you

01738 632 561

hr business support and recruitment specialists

Working with you - for you

with compliments Fairways Recruitment (Scotland) Limited Balmoral Suite, Royal British House, Leonard Street, Perth PH2 8HA

t • 01738 632561 f • 01738 639086 e • admin@fairways-uk.com w • www.fairways-uk.com Registered in Scotland No: SC195669 VAT Registration No: 502 9493 48

HR Business Support Services

Recruitment

E

nsuring organisations remain legally compliant with their HR and employment responsibilities, we provide practical cost effective help and support to SME's to improve organisational performance and productivity

O

ur skilled Consultants have the perfect cost effective recruitment solutions for your business as we supply organisations across all industries with high quality staffing solutions for Permanent, Temporary and Contract staff recruitment.

Working with you - for you, we

Working with you - for you, we

Deal with and resolve complex Discipline and Absence Management issues

Offer Competitive rates and added value services to suit your needs

Prepare Contracts of Employment, Employee Handbooks & Settlement Agreements

Provide qualified practitioners to conduct accredited Psychometric Profiling

Provide expert, reliable Employment Law Advice and cost effective Solutions

Prepare accurate Job Descriptions and Specifications for clients

Provide proactive HR Consultancy and Support

Provide Recruitment and Retention experts to help and support you

Provide Learning & Development Programs

Help Candidates make the right choices and career moves ensuring that organisations get the right person for the right role

and much, much more ….

and much, much more ….

Fairways is an approved supplier with Perth & Kinross Council to provide HR consultancy support services to local businesses in Perth and Kinross.

of contact for all our HR, employment “law,Oneandpoint general or otherwise business queries.

HMP Perth having been using Fairways since “2001, have always found them able to provide

Extremely knowledgeable, very approachable and very prompt to reply to any question raised be it by phone call or detailed email. My fellow directors and I would have no hesitation to recommend Fairways HR and will continue to have Fairways as part of our "team".

a reliable, efficient and prompt response to any requests for staff. The staff are very knowledgeable and professional, and I would have no hesitation in recommending Fairways to any potential client. HMP Perth looks forward to continuing a successful partnership with Fairways.

Stephen Allardyce, Allardyce Healthcare

HMP Perth

”

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EVENTS 2014 AUGUST Thursday 21st August

Networking Lunch

1.00pm - 3.00pm

Blair Castle Horse Trials

Blair Atholl

Tuesday 26th August

Annual Chamber Golf Day 2014

Daytime Event

Blairgowrie Golf Club, Rosemount Course

Blairgowrie

Wednesday 3rd September

The Communications Masterclass

5.00pm - 8.00pm

Saltire House

Perth

Tuesday 9th September

Networking Breakfast

7.30am - 8.45am

Huntingtower Hotel

Perth

Wednesday 10th September

PKC Procurement one-to-one surgeries

9.30am - 4.30pm

Saltire House

Perth

Networking Breakfast

7.30am - 8.45am

Starbucks

Perth

Monday 3rd November

Export Focussed Scottish Government Budget Consultation

10.30am - 12noon tbc

Perth

Tuesday 4th November

Management Today Training Course Part 1

9.30am - 3.30pm

Perth

SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER Tuesday 7th October NOVEMBER

Rowan Consultancy

Wednesday 5th November Family Business and Succession Planning Event

8.00am - 10.00am G S Group

Perth

Friday 21st November

Annual Dinner and Business Star Awards 2014

Evening Event

Crieff

Tuesday 2nd December

Management Today Training Course Part 2

9.30am - 12.30pm Rowan Consultancy

Perth

Tuesday 2nd December

Wine Tasting Evening

6.00pm - 9.00pm

Perth

Crieff Hydro

DECEMBER

TRAINING MANAGEMENT TODAY – an Institute of Leadership and Management course Dates and Times: Tuesday 4th November, 9.30am – 3.30pm (part 1) Tuesday 2nd December, 9.30am – 12.30pm (part 2) Cost – Perthshire Chamber of Commerce members: £297 + VAT, Non-members: £330 + VAT

Chamber Professional Development Programme Venue: Perthshire Chamber of Commerce, Saltire House, 3 Whitefriars Crescent, Perth, PH2 0PA Date: Wednesday 3rd September, Time: 5pm – 8pm Cost: Members £130 Non-members: £160

Communications Masterclass

Are you a manager who hasn’t received any management training? Whether you have many years’ experience or are new to a management role, managers are often expected to pick up the reins and adapt to management without much support or training.

The Communications Masterclass for Managers and Executives is ideal for those who have been newly promoted, those who wish to fine tune their current communication skills or for businesses who are currently reviewing their internal communication processes and strategies.

Perthshire Chamber of Commerce has joined forces with local ILM centre Rowan Consultancy to bring you e.g. one and a half day programme focussing on people-management skills. You will learn about different management styles and understand the roles and responsibilities of a manager, as well as the importance of feedback, planning and staff motivation.

This Masterclass will cover how to get the best out of your teams with effective communication, how to achieve ‘buy-in’ from individuals when going through change management and will also touch on those ‘soft skills’ such as coaching through challenging conversations, reducing potential conflict in the workplace and the importance of using emotional intelligence through communication.

During the course you’ll be encouraged to relate what you learn to your own work situation, so it’s easier to apply the skills when you’re back managing your team.

Here’s what two previous delegates said:

As with all Masterclasses delivered at the Chamber, the sharing of experiences and learnings will be encouraged.

“Very useful and informative session. Trainer very knowledgeable and approachable.”

The evening will be hosted by Gary Robinson who has over 23 years of experience in communication and broadcasting and has also held the position of managing director at five major radio stations across the UK and has extensive experience of people and change management.

To book or find out more, email rowan@rowan-consultancy.co.uk or tel 01738 562005.

To book or find out more, email events@perthshirechamber.co.uk or tel 01738 448325.

“An excellent course and would recommend to colleagues.”

48

Café Tabou

THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

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MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS

T

he Chamber is an independent, voluntary, non-profit making, nonpolitical business organisation dedicated to the furtherance of members’ interests. It is the largest private sector business support organisation in Britain.

The Perthshire Chamber of Commerce has a voluntary Board of Directors from all over Perthshire and a wide range of business sectors.

rship Membe s Benefit

Perthshire Chamber has two paid full-time members of staff including Chief Executive, Vicki Unite, based at the Chamber’s office at the Perth Business Centre, Saltire House, 3 Whitefriars Crescent, Perth, PH2 0PA.

CHAMBER SERVICES THE CHAMBER HR service provides businesses with access to professional HR advice and a raft of documentation including contracts and staff handbooks.

CHAMBER TRAINING COURSES Chamber members can take advantage of great rates through the Chamber’s exclusive training opportunities.

CHAMBER LEGAL EXPENSES AND 24 HOUR LEGAL HELPLINE Safeguard your business against the unexpected costs of professional legal services and get legal cover of up to £670,000 as well as access to a 24/7 helpline.

SCOTTISH CHAMBERS FOREIGN EXCHANGE Scottish Chambers FX has direct access to the wholesale currency markets and is able to pass on the resultant savings to members. SCFX charges no fees for transactions in excess of £5K and doesn’t charge commission.

CHAMBER MERCHANT SERVICES Process debit and credit card payments with discounted transaction fees, reduced terminal hire costs and no service fees.

CHAMBER HEALTHCARE Help to reduce sickness absence and improve staff motivation with a choice of two great schemes.

CHAMBER ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE Receive up to 61% on the cost of breakdown cover (for members of participating accredited Chambers only).

CHAMBER FINANCE In partnership with RBS / NatWest we are able to offer 3 years free business banking for start ups, one year free business banking for those that switch accounts, discounted rates with RBS Invoice Finance.

BUSINESS MENTORING Business Mentoring is a free service for Chamber members to link those looking for a mentor with those wishing to support new, local businesses and use their extensive business experience by mentoring another.

JUMPSTART AT THE CHAMBERS Jumpstart offer Chamber members a helping hand in securing R&D tax credits. From April 2012, companies have been able to deduct up to 225% of qualifying expenditure when calculating their profit for tax purposes. What’s more, they can claim R&D tax relief on expenditure that’s up to three years old.

CHAMBER EVENTS Events include: Regular lunch and early evening events, monthly networking breakfasts, annual golf day and annual Business Star Awards. Plus many more including procurement and training events REPRESENTATION The Chamber is represented on a variety of organisations and committees. It has regular meetings with the Council, local MPs, MSPs and MEPs. The Chamber is in a stronger negotiating position than individual members and uses its bargaining power for the benefit of members. PCC is affiliated to British and Scottish Chambers of Commerce and through the latter’s Council ensures that Perth & Kinross issues get heard at national level.

How much is Chamber membership worth now?

ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTIONS

50

CATEGORY

SIZE OF BUSINESS

RATE

BAND A BAND B BAND C BAND D BAND E BAND F BAND G

1-5 EMPLOYEES 6-10 EMPLOYEES 11-25 EMPLOYEES 26-50 EMPLOYEES 51-100 EMPLOYEES 101-250 EMPLOYEES OVER 250 EMPLOYEES

£ 139 £ 165 £ 207 £ 260 £ 384 £ 480 £ 526

VAT

TOTAL INC VAT £ 27.80 £ 166.80 £ 33.00 £ 198.00 £ 41.40 £ 248.40 £ 52.00 £ 312.00 £ 76.80 £ 460.80 £ 96.00 £ 576.00 £ 105.20 £ 631.20

THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

Contact the Chamber office on 01738 448325 or email info@perthshirechamber.co.uk for further details on any of the above or refer to the website www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

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