Perthshire in commerce issue 27 issuu by dtech

INcommerce THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

POPPIES HELP PERTH ECONOMY BLOOM PERTHSHIRE ON A PLATE SERVED UP AT PERTH SHOW TRAINERS UNITE IN CHAMBER INITIATIVE STAR AWARDS GALLERY

ISSUE 27 • SPRING 2016

ADVERTISING FEATURE

A PROMISE BY THE NATION.

Major General Nick Ashmore and Professor Nigel Seaton with the signed Covenant.

Defence Employer Recognition Scheme recipients met the Prime Minister at 10 Downing Street.

The Armed Forces Covenant is a promise by the nation, ensuring that those who serve or have served in the Armed Forces, and their families, are treated fairly.

The Covenant has just been rebranded and now has a clear visual identity. So why not publicly declare your commitment to our Armed Forces by signing up? In doing so you would be among the first UK companies to show your support. Minister for Defence Personnel and Veterans, Mark Lancaster, said: “Armed Forces personnel and their families make many sacrifices through their service to keep Britain safe. They can face challenges accessing commercial and public services that we take for granted, so the Armed Forces Covenant is a promise from the nation to ensure that the Armed Forces community is treated fairly, and recognise their particular challenges.” Signing up to the Covenant is straightforward and sets companies on the path to further recognition for their pledge in the form of the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS). The scheme encourages employers to support defence and inspire others to do the same. The prestigious Bronze, Silver and Gold awards are for employer organisations that pledge, demonstrate or advocate support to defence and the Armed Forces community, and align their values with the Armed Forces Covenant. The ERS awards culminate annually with ceremonies to recognise the efforts of the Silver and Gold award winners. The Silver winners were thanked during a dinner at Edinburgh Castle’s Great Hall while the Gold award winners were recently invited to meet the Prime Minister at 10 Downing Street where he showed his gratitude for their support. One of the first 2016 signatories to the new-look Armed Forces Covenant was Dundee-based Abertay University which put pen to paper at a ceremony organised by Highland Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association. The Association acts as the interface between employers and Armed Forces Reservists.

Professor Nigel Seaton, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of Abertay University, signed the Covenant at a passing-out parade for the Tayforth University Officer Training Corp (TUOTC) at Barry Buddon Camp, near Carnoustie. Major General Nick Ashmore OBE, the Army’s senior officer in Scotland, witnessed the signing. Dundee-based Abertay is the first university in the UK to sign the Armed Forces Covenant in its new form (introduced in early 2016). Eight other UK universities are signatories to the Covenant in its earlier form. Professor Seaton said: “The Covenant sets out the obligations that the UK owes to the members of its Armed Forces, who sacrifice some civilian freedoms and can face danger while in service.” For more about the Covenant and what it means for you, visit www.gov.uk/government/policies/armed-forces-covenant. You can also contact Ron Macgregor, Highland Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association’s Regional Employer Engagement Director, on 01382 631026 or email hi-empsp@rfca.mod.uk.

Proudly supporting those who serve.

PRESIDENT’S WELCOME

Contents

EDITOR’S INTRODUCTION

Star Awards............................ 4-10 Members’ News................... 11-19 Special Events........................... 20 Guest Speaker Professor Gary McEwan....... 24-25 Local businesses urged to join the Y family.................. 26-28 Perthshire on a Plate................. 30

Mike McDiarmid

eems so long ago now but it’s great to continue to celebrate our terrific Star Award winners in the special feature in this edition of InCommerce. It’s important to remember that the benefits of entering, being shortlisted and winning such a prestigious business award spans more than the night itself. It give you an extra marketing and promotional tool to use and can provide a competitive advantage. I would urge companies to take that on board when considering entering. We’re also delighted that the money raised by so many generous guests at our Annual Dinner allowed us to provide a scholarship to a hospitality student at Perth College and provide some valuable business support and assistance around this award. Still on the subject of Star Awards, I’m thrilled that Binn Group has agreed to be our main sponsor for the next three years and we look forward to continuing to work closely with them and thank them sincerely for their generous support which benefits us all. In this, The Year of Innovation, Architecture and Design (a marketing hook created by VisitScotland for businesses to use) we look forward with excitement to welcoming visitors to Perthshire over the summer as they visit The Poppies Weeping Window which will come to the Black Watch Castle & Museum from 30th June. This proved to be one of the biggest tourist attractions in London in 2015 and I think it is tremendous that the Black Watch has succeeded in bringing this to Perth providing a huge boost to the local economy and really turning the spotlight on this area. Mike McDiarmid President Perthshire Chamber of Commerce

Vicki Unite

e are so excited to announce that we will be bringing our food and drink festival, Perthshire on a Plate, back this year – this time as part of Perth Show. This terrific showcase opportunity to promote, celebrate and enjoy all the area’s wonderful food and drink suppliers, producers, retailers and creators is not to be missed and we look forward to working in partnership with the Perth Show team. We have also strengthened our training partnership with member businesses to offer an exclusive, varied and full schedule of diverse training sessions which should offer something for every business at preferential rates. However, our suppliers (as you will see from the training feature in this magazine) offer a whole raft of other subjects so if you have suggestions on other topics you’d like to see delivered, do let us know. To encourage local businesses to explore the potential of exporting we’re working closely with Scottish Enterprise and our events schedule includes a range of opportunities to learn more and help identify any existing or future potential. Of course, if you have any questions on that topic you can contact us at any time and we will do whatever we can to identify the best information source for you and work with you towards this potential goal. Our hugely beneficial mentoring programme continues to be extremely popular and successful and if you feel you could benefit from being matched with a mentor (both within or outwith Perthshire) or have experience and expertise to share with a younger business please do contact us about joining this exciting project. Vicki Unite Editor of InCommerce and Chief Executive of Perthshire Chamber of Commerce

Unique Chamber training initiattive................ 32-35 Chamber News......................... 36 Delivering world class connectivity to Perthshire.......... 37 Property Predictions 2016......... 38 Easter holidays could mean contract disputes...................... 39 Energy Procurement.................. 40 No relief for Commercial Landlords.................................. 41 New Member Profiles........... 42-45 Events....................................... 48 Fitness in the workforce............ 49 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: 0141 222 2202 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, Suite 3.3, Station House, 34 St Enoch Square, Glasgow G1 4DF. Telephone 0141 222 2202. 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.

/PerthshireChamber

Chamber Sponsors.................... 31

@ChamberPerth

The views expressed by authors of articles published in this magazine are solely those of the author and are not necessarily the views of or shared by the editor, nor the publisher or the directors, shareholders and/or employees of DTech Publishing Ltd.

STAR AWARDS Record number of guests attended this year’s event.

Aviation A experts fly high to capture the stars

Perthshire-based international aircraft component company is flying high after being crowned Perthshire’s top business.

Vector Aerospace Component Services UK lifted the Perthshire Chamber of Commerce 2015 Business Of The Year title at a glittering Star Awards ceremony, supported by GS Group. Business Director Mick O’Connor and delighted staff from the Almondbank-based centre celebrated after securing the Perth and Kinross Council Internationalisation category trophy before going on to claim the overall title. A sell-out audience of nearly 400 – including Scotland’s Depute First Minister John Swinney MSP – heard how Vector Aerospace, which employs over 200 at the Almondbank facility alone, captured the judges’ vote for their “passion, resilience, adaptability and determination to survive and thrive”. Chamber President Mike McDiarmid described the winner as a superb example of business survival after they lost 60% of their business overnight in 2012 in a retraction of MoD work. “Losing a huge bulk of public sector funded work – right in the middle of the recession – required the company to harness incredible innovation and determination to survive by securing new commercial work streams,” detailed Mr McDiarmid.

Business of the Year winners, Vector Aerospace Component Services UK.

THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2016 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

“The passion demonstrated by the workforce ensured that survival, sustainability and the continued and growing success of this amazing engineering and manufacturing facility with over 200 employees – many highly skilled – right here in rural Perthshire.

STAR AWARDS

“What a shining example of business success and a worthy winner of the area’s most prestigious business accolade.” Established in 2008, Vector Aerospace’s Component Services UK provides a one-stop-shop capability for the repair, overhaul, modification and testing of an extensive range of critical components for a wide variety of rotary and fixed wing aircraft. Some of the most important aircraft platforms used by the UK armed forces are supported by Almondbank, including C-130 Hercules and Chinook and the company has approved status by key suppliers such as Rolls-Royce Deutschland, Boeing, Airbus Helicopters and Ryanair. Almondbank’s expertise includes dynamic, hydraulic and structural components, along with engine accessory and propeller capabilities. The facility also has extensive electroplating, machining, manufacturing, NDT, surface coating and composite repair capabilities which support both in-house deep refurbishment activities and stand-alone customer requirements. A delighted Mick O’Connor said the Perthshire Business Of The Year title was a fitting reward for the dedication and hard work of all the staff at Vector Aerospace. “I am genuinely surprised and humbled – and more than a little emotional – to accept this award on behalf of the whole team,” he said. “It is a real landmark for us. “When I joined the company in 2012 we were in a very precarious position. I was tasked with turning things around and I am extremely proud of how everyone has dug in and worked hard to reposition the business, adapt work practices, improve systems, heavily invest in people and harness new markets. “I have watched Vector Aerospace re-emerge in the past three years as a global force again – albeit with still some way to go – and the entire workforce shares in this award which recognises what they have achieved. It’s a real honour and privilege for all of us at Vector Aerospace to receive this

Chamber president, Mike McDiarmid delivering his welcome speech.

John Swinney Deputy First Minister, Lord Lieutenant Mel Jameson, Mike McDiarmid Chamber President and Stephen Leckie.

accolade from Perthshire Chamber of Commerce and our business peers in Perth and Kinross.” Chamber Chief Executive Vicki Unite reflected on “an amazing evening”. “It was a fantastic event,” she said, “and so great to see the very best in local business being applauded by their peers and rewarded by the business sector for their outstanding work. “We know from experience that there can be a real business benefit for winners – and finalists – and that is the underlying purpose of the Star Awards. “It’s a privilege to be able to showcase them at Perthshire’s leading business awards ceremony and witness their success and the genuine support from the local business community.” Ms Unite was also praised and presented with flowers by President Mike McDiarmid to mark 10 years of organising the Chamber’s glittering awards ceremony. This year’s event attracted almost double the normal number of entries and the largest audience ever to the Crieff Hydro black tie gathering. The business showcase event was hosted by popular media duo Maureen Young and Gary Robinson and entertainment was provided by local band Lost In Music.

Deputy First Minister John Swinney.

THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2016 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

STAR AWARDS Hosts Maureen Young and Gary Robinson.

Guests enjoying music from Lost in Music.

In addition to the overall Business Of The Year title, 14 category Star Awards and four Highly Commended certificates were presented. Support sponsorship for the glamorous event came from GS Group and media sponsor was The Perthshire Advertiser. Trophies were designed, crafted and donated by Caithness Glass. Guests enjoyed a sumptuous dinner with wine and once again Highland Spring provided the water for the evening. The event was hosted by journalist Maureen Young and presenter Gary Robinson. Sound and light production and expertise for the show was provided by Catalyst EPS.

Iain Hutchinson from Merlin ERD with guests.

Johnston Media handled all video work before and during the event while Daybreak studios recorded the voiceovers used in films of the shortlisted entries. A charity prize draw of a “Just The Tonic” prize package with champagne chauffeur drive came courtesy of Crieff Hydro Hotel. Coach transport to and from the event was provided by Stagecoach. Photographer Graeme Hart of Perthshire Picture Agency was on duty throughout the evening to catch all the drama and excitement. Business Star Awards website provided by Momentum Design.

Guests from Blackhills Clinic enjoy the photo booth.

THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2016 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

STAR AWARDS Guests enjoy a game of Heads and Tails.

Tracy and Ross Graham, Iain Hutchinson, Anna Graham and Pete Wishart MP.

Room set for the evening ahead.

The Lending Channel guests.

3 generations attended from Binn Group.

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STAR AWARDS

WI N NERS 1

PERTH AND KINROSS COUNCIL DEVELOPING OUR YOUNG WORKFORCE AWARD Vasart Cleaning (partnered with Perth Academy) MCLEOD GLAZIERS EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR AWARD PRESENTED BY DEREK PETTERSON Hollie Millar, Scott Hospitality Services

PERTH COLLEGE UHI APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR AWARD PRESENTED BY PAM WILSON Scott Mason, GBEC Scotland Highly Commended: James Munro, Binn Group

ELEVATOR & BUSINESS GATEWAY MOST PROMISING NEW BUSINESS AWARD PRESENTED BY ANDREW BURNETT The Anglers Inn

GRAHAM ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES EXCELLENCE IN CUSTOMER SERVICE AWARD PRESENTED BY ROSS GRAHAM MDG Group

BINN GROUP EXCELLENCE IN BUSINESS INNOVATION AWARD PRESENTED BY ALLAN MCGREGOR Scott Hospitality Services Highly Commended: Tower Bakery

ROYAL BANK OF SCOTLAND COMMITMENT TO THE COMMUNITY AWARD PRESENTED BY PHILIP BOLLAND Horsecross Arts

BANK OF SCOTLAND EXCELLENCE IN TOURISM & LEISURE AWARD PRESENTED BY IAN COLLINS

STAGECOACH GROUP CONTRIBUTION TO SUSTAINABILITY AWARD PRESENTED BY LINDSAY REID Comrie Croft

PERTH & KINROSS COUNCIL INTERNATIONALISATION AWARD 10 PRESENTED BY COUNCILOR JOHN KELLAS Vector Aerospace Component Services UK

JOHNSTON CARMICHAEL CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS 11 BUSINESS GROWTH AWARD PRESENTED BY EUAN MCLEOD AGB Small Contracts FAIRWAYS HR BUSINESS SUPPORT AND RECRUITMENT SPECIALISTS EXCELLENCE 12 IN E-COMMERCE AWARD PRESENTED BY LIZ JACKSON Eva Lucia BLACKADDERS INDEPENDENT RETAILER OF THE YEAR AWARD PRESENTED BY JOANNE 13 GRIMMOND

Loch Leven’s Larder

Highly Commended: Provender Brown Delicatessen THE JAMES HUTTON INSTITUTE EXCELLENCE IN FOOD & DRINK 14 PRODUCE AWARD PRESENTED BY GILLIAN STIRTON Mr C’s Hand-Crafted Pies PERTHSHIRE BUSINESS OF THE YEAR 2015 PRESENTED BY CHAMBER 15 PRESIDENT, MIKE MCDIARMID Vector Aerospace Component Services UK

Action Glen Highly Commended: The Enchanted Forest Community Trust

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STAR AWARDS

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STAR AWARDS

BINN GROUP SHINES AS NEW STAR AWARDS SPONSOR

Perthshire Chamber of Commerce Chief Executive Vicki Unite (right) seals a new Star Awards sponsorship deal with Binn Group’s Commercial Manager Jim Brown and Brand and Marketing Manager Louise MacGregor.

Leading Scottish waste management company Binn Group has swept in to support Perthshire’s premier business awards. The Glenfarg-based company has announced a three-year deal with Perthshire Chamber of Commerce to become key sponsors of the business network’s prestigious annual Star Awards. The respected Star Awards have recognised and rewarded hundreds of outstanding locally-based businesses over the years. And Binn Group is keen to help safeguard and support the popular annual showcase of business champions for the immediate future. “As a long-standing Chamber member and sponsor – as well as a previous Star Awards winner – Binn Group is well aware of the valuable role both the organisation and the annual Star Awards play in the local area and beyond,” explained Binn Group Commercial Manager Jim Brown. “Binn Group is proud to be a national company based in Perthshire and we are delighted to support other local businesses to succeed,” he added. “Perthshire Chamber’s awards are highly respected and sought after and many businesses have benefitted greatly over the years from having a Star Award on their company profile.

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“By signing up as key sponsors for the event for the next three years, we hope to play a greater role in supporting local business and in helping to showcase the ‘stars’ that this part of the country should be extremely proud of.” Chamber Chief Executive Vicki Unite said she was “very pleased” to have secured the backing of one of the area’s leading businesses. “Binn Group is already a Platinum Partner to the Chamber, offering sponsorship support across a broad spectrum of events and activities,” she explained. “We are extremely grateful to the MacGregor family and the management team at Binn Group for helping promote business excellence through this latest three-year sponsorship deal. “Their backing of the Star Awards is key in allowing us to continue to roll out one of the most successful, robust and respected business awards in Scotland,” added Ms Unite. “Binn Group is a highly respected company and the Chamber is delighted to be working with them to make the Star Awards even bigger and better. “The company will enjoy a high profile presence at our November glittering showcase dinner and awards ceremony and we look forward to having their name associated with the event for 2016, 2017 and 2018.”

MEMBERS’ NEWS

VOLPA SET TO EXPAND IN 2016 Perth integrated communications agency Volpa is set to expand in 2016, following another year of rapid growth.

PERTH BASED COMPANY WINS MAJOR CCTV CONTRACT

The award-winning marketing firm added several big names to its client roster in 2015 and is recruiting more staff to fulfil demand for its services. Volpa provides marketing, public relations, design and digital services. Its newest contracts include public relations for Balhousie Care Group, one of Scotland’s leading providers of elderly care, and design services for Horsecross Arts, the creative organisation that runs Perth Concert Hall and Perth Theatre. These clients join an impressive portfolio at Volpa which includes high-profile names in tourism and hospitality such as The Enchanted Forest, St. Andrews Aquarium, The Famous Grouse Experience, Scotland’s Secret Bunker and Scone Palace. The past two years have seen healthy growth for Volpa, with the firm taking on 20 new clients, doubling its staff to eight and expanding its office space in Perth. Managing Director Tricia Fox, whose career in marketing spans two decades, said: “Last year was one of exciting growth in both clients and staff for Volpa, making us the biggest marketing agency servicing the Perthshire region and one of the biggest agencies servicing Tayside. We’re incredibly excited for what 2016 will bring.”

Scottish Communications Group (SCG), the UK’s leading independent communication equipment specialist, has been awarded a £1.85 million contract by Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL) for the design and installation of a new CCTV solution at their Clyde and west coast network of 25 harbours, ports and slipways. The new CCTV system has been designed to improve safety and security for customers, Harbour Operator personnel, contractors and other harbour users, as well as provide RoRo Ferry Masters with live images of local conditions at destination ports. It is expected the significant improvement in the availability and detail of live information accessed remotely by RoRo Ferry Masters will help inform their decision making process and help optimise lifeline ferry service provision across all routes that use CMAL harbours. SCG has also been awarded full service and maintenance contracts for all sites for a five year term. This is the biggest contract won by the communications company since it was founded in 1979. Paul Gibson, Scottish Communications Group Managing Director said: “We are delighted to have been awarded this very prestigious contract, one of the largest of its kind in Scotland and we look forward to working with CMAL to deliver the latest CCTV technology.” David McHardie, CMAL Harbour Master said: “The delivery of this contract will improve the safety of our ports and harbours for all users and the work forms part of our overall programme to improve and upgrade harbours across the network.”

GS GROUP LOOKS WEST Leading insurance broker, GS Group, has unveiled expansion plans aimed at the Glasgow market. Four new appointments have been made to drive further expansion in the west of Scotland. The business, founded in Perth 24 years ago, now employs 60 staff at offices across the country, with the group turnover in the region of £20 million. Managing director George Stubbs (50) said: “We have been building the business in Glasgow over the past five years, generating around £7 million in that period.

“We are proud of our roots in the Fair City, building on a long and proud insurance tradition dating back to the days when Sir Francis Norie-Miller founded General Accident. “But Glasgow has always been an integral part of our own business development model.” GS Group specialises in the construction, property and transportation sectors and is the third biggest independent broker in Scotland, providing in-house loss adjustment, claims service and health and safety risk management.

THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2016 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

MEMBERS’ NEWS

NEW CEO AT PERTH RACECOURSE Award-winning visitor attraction Perth Racecourse has appointed a Chief Executive for the first time in its 400 year history. Hazel Peplinski took up the new position on 1st January 2016 and has wasted no time in laying plans for the summer jump season at the UK’s most northerly course. Hailing from a horseracing background – her father John Dudgeon was a permit-holder trainer and her brother Sandy a successful amateur jockey – Hazel has built an enviable reputation in Scottish racing holding positions that include Chief Executive, Director, Racing Manager and Clerk of the Course at Hamilton Park, as well as further Clerking roles at both Kelso and Ayr racecourse. Earlier in her career Hazel was a Public Relations Officer for the Racecourse Association (RCA) and obtained Event Management experience in the golf and tennis arenas. Hazel commented: “The decision to appoint a Chief Executive rather than a new General Manager reflects just how far Perth Racecourse has come in the last ten years. In what has been a difficult time for the industry, Perth has consistently bucked trends to show a solid increase in both visitor numbers and fixtures. With annual turnover now in excess of £2.5million it is an opportune time to raise the bar.

New Perth Race Chief Executive Hazel Peplinski.

“I was hugely honoured to be approached by the committee and have grabbed this unique opportunity with both hands. Having been brought up in a large National Hunt racing family, I do feel as though I’m coming home and will be proud to welcome life-long industry friends and business contacts to Perth Racecourse.”

SAY CHEESE! Provender Brown Deli in Perth has escalated our love of cheese to a whole new level with the launch of their monthly Cheese Club. This fantastic idea from Diane and the PB team will bring members a year-long extravaganza of new cheese flavours from across Scotland, the UK and mainland Europe. “Like a good wine or whisky, cheese comes in many different varieties and in Scotland alone you will find a vast array of choices from dozens of producers,” says Diane. “Many people don’t realise that some of our favourite cheeses are seasonal, made in small batches by artisan producers using whatever their local area has to offer. You’ll also find that the cheeses which are available all year round taste even better in the months where that are used to enhance the flavours of our local, seasonal ingredients. It made perfect sense to us to work this into a monthly Cheese Club for our regular lovers of all things cheese.” You can join the club yourself or buy it as a gift; each month Cheese Club members will receive a seasonal selection of 3 – 4

THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2016 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

cheeses, with biscuits or crackers and an accompaniment of jam, chutney, mustard or quince that complements the flavours in the box. Priced at £20 each month this is a fantastic way to relax and treat yourself while educating your palate into a new taste sensation! Those who live further afield can choose to have it posted out for a small additional fee of £5.

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MEMBERS’ NEWS

THEATRE LOVERS CAN PLAY THEIR PART IN THE TRANSFORM PERTH THEATRE FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN

Barrie Hunter supporting the campaign.

As work continues on the restoration and redevelopment of Perth Theatre; theatre lovers are being invited to show their support by joining the #PlayingMyPart campaign. Horsecross Arts, the creative organisation behind Perth Concert Hall and Perth Theatre is calling out to actors, audiences, past staff members, businesses and community participants to help raise the profile of the £16.6m transformation and join the final push to raise the remaining £1.5m to fully kit out the new theatre when it reopens in autumn 2017. #PlayingMyPart centres on a large-scale Transform Perth Theatre display in Perth Concert Hall’s Threshold artspace which includes a screen showing video clips and images from those who have a connection with the theatre. Anyone can get involved by taking a picture of themselves with the #PlayingMyPart sign in Perth Concert Hall or filming a short video clip and posting on social media using the hashtags #TransformPerthTheatre and #PlayingMyPart. Their images could then be incorporated in the Transform Perth Theatre display.

As well as suggested fundraising activities, invited donations and seat dedication opportunities, local businesses can associate themselves with this once-in-a-lifetime transformation with a bespoke sponsorship package.

The widget is offered free of charge to accommodation providers for use on their websites, and will give weekly updated recipes – many from local chefs – featuring ideas for using seasonal produce from the local area and ingredients available from Perthshire’s independent food retailers. The hope is that self-catering visitors to the area will find an easy route to ‘buy local, eat local’ while on holiday. Developed by Nicola Martin and Anna Ford, the recipe widget uses digital technology and original images from local photographer, Gill Murray, to cleverly link together the local food and drink chain.

RECIPE WIDGET TO BOOST TOURISM EXPERIENCE Perth based online magazine, www.SmallCityBigPersonality. co.uk, has launched a new recipe widget that perfectly bridges Scotland’s year of Food and Drink in 2015 and the year of Innovation, Architecture and Design in 2016. Their #SmallCityRecipe widget will allow self-catering accommodation providers, local chefs, delis, butchers and other food retail outlets to link-up and showcase the best of Perthshire and wider Scotland’s seasonal, local produce.

THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2015 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

Nicola Martin, Small City owner said, “Our weekly recipes are really popular and we know from talking to tourism and food businesses that they were keen to find a way for us to get this great information in front of visitors.” Jim Clarkson, Regional Partnerships Director (East of Scotland) from VisitScotland commented: “This innovative approach to showcasing Perthshire’s amazing natural larder is very much in keeping with the spirit of the Year of Innovation, Architecture and Design. Digital tools such as these enable visitors to access and share more information and experiences than ever before. We are therefore delighted to be supporting Small City and the rollout of the #SmallCityRecipe widget.”

MEMBERS’ NEWS

THUMBS-UP FOR CITY CENTRE

UK AWARDS PUT PERTH FIRM ON THE FINANCE MAP A Perth-based business has captured two of the UK finance industry’s most prestigious awards. Carbon Financial Partners’ managing director Gordon Wilson was presented with the Personal Finance Sector’s Chartered Financial Planners of the Year accolade by impressionist Alistair McGowan at London’s Lancaster Hotel. Hard on the heels of that award, corporate director Mark Christie accepted the coveted Gold Standard for Independent Financial Advice for a third year in succession from Sir David Amess MP at the House of Commons. Mr Wilson said the latest awards vindicated his decision to base the fledgling company in Perth’s Atholl Crescent a few years ago, although it now has offices in Edinburgh and Aberdeen, with a presence in Glasgow and London. Reflecting on the Chartered Financial Planners of the Year honour, Mr Wilson said: “I was proud to accept the award

Mark Christie receiving Gold Standard for Independent Financial Advice.

on behalf of the fantastic team we have assembled at Carbon. “This is possibly the biggest award in our industry and winning it is further recognition of the quality and high standards of everyone involved in the business. “We are also proud to have again received the Gold Standard. “It is especially rewarding because it is not only about the quality of advice and service we offer clients, but also the contribution we make to the communities we work in and to the financial profession in the UK. “Firms who have managed to achieve Chartered status represent the pinnacle of the emerging financial planning profession. “These awards reinforce our position as one of the UK’s leading financial advice businesses and puts Perth firmly on the country’s personal finance map.”

LANDMARK YEAR FOR JOHNSTON CARMICHAEL Johnston Carmichael continues to build on nearly a century of success as it prepares to celebrate its 80th anniversary this year. Scotland’s largest independent firm of Chartered Accountants and Business Advisers ended 2015 on a high note winning the Restructuring Project of the Year and the Corporate Finance Team of the Year at the British Accountancy Awards 2015 as well as announcing an increase in turnover of £39.6m in their financial results for the 2014/2015 year end.

“Food and Drink, technology and professional services are particular sectors where we have strengthened our capacity to meet demand and position ourselves for future growth. We have hired a record number of graduates in the last year as well as making a number of internal promotions and strategic hires, so our succession plan is in good shape. I have no doubt that our team will play a major role in the future success of our business by providing exceptional service to our clients.”

Employing 650 people across 11 locations, Johnston Carmichael is one of the top 20 accounting firms in the UK. Sandy Manson, Chief Executive, says that the company takes a long-term view of the business, continuing to invest in key areas in order to grow in capability and expertise.

Mr Manson added that despite the change and growth that the company has been through since its formation eighty years ago, Johnston Carmichael’s commitment to its heritage and core values remains constant.

PERTH businessman John Bryden has cut his long-time ties to the award winning Ice Factory nightclub. But the Centreglobal managing director has underlined his ongoing commitment to the Fair City with a major investment in “That Bar.” Mr Bryden stressed the South Street licensed premises, along with The Loft, Roca Blu and the Tavern, will continue to play an integral role in the city’s social scene. While the Ice Factory is now under the management of one-time club DJ Mike Jordan, the rest of the Shore Road premises are the subject of a planning application to the local authority, with proposals to create a series of workshops, storage space and office units to rent, with parking at the door. Meanwhile, Mr Bryden has ploughed £250,000 into That Bar, with the latest investment providing a greater emphasis on food throughout the day and evening. He said: “After 21 successful years’ involvement with the Ice Factory, I felt the time was right to focus on our other business interests in the city centre.” Mr Bryden also stressed that the investment the local licensed trade adds up to a vote of confidence in the city centre. “We are confident that Perth has a bright future. That is demonstrated by the level of investment we are making in our various outlets. “The initial response to the enhanced food operation at That Bar has been very positive, as has the uptake for late night food at The Loft through to 3am on Fridays and Saturdays.”

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MEMBERS’ NEWS

NEW PARTNERS AND CLIENTS AS ABERDEIN CONSIDINE CONTINUES GROWTH NEW PERTH GIFT CARD LAUNCHED BY MICONEX A new card, believed to be the first of its kind in Scotland, has already made a difference to the January sales of countless Perth businesses. The innovative scheme operates in the same way as any gift card but gives the recipient the power to spend as much as they want in a whole range of Perth businesses. Leading Perth businesses who have already joined our growing Redemption Network include McCash’s Country Store, Blend Cafe, Exel Wines and Scone Palace. A local retailer stated: “The Perth Gift Card was an instant must for Exel Wines to get involved in – so far 22 people have bought the card from us and we expect many more.” The Perth Card is the brainchild of local digital marketing firm Miconex who partnered up with Perth and Kinross council and Scandinavian firm Presend to bring this cutting edge project to their local city. Miconex Chief Executive Colin Munro believes the card’s unique multi business approach is one of the most appealing factors. “The card can be used for more than just shopping,” he said. “Perth Concert Hall has signed up and along with other local venues and attractions, there are jewellers, award winning restaurants, specialist retailers and even hotels. It really does encapsulate every type of local business and the beauty of it is that the network will grow and grow over time.”

Aberdein Considine has appointed eight new Partners and secured major new corporate and public sector clients as it continues its growth across Scotland. The firm is now acting for bakery giant Greggs PLC, jeweller Rox UK, and Oxford University after bringing corporate property specialist Paul Jennings on board in 2015. Coco Chocolate and The Route Finance have also joined a growing list of clients being serviced from the Partnership’s 17 national offices, including Perth. In addition, the firm has just secured its first two public sector contracts – including one with NHS Grampian. Managing Partner Jacqueline Law said the firm is “delighted” to be adding high street names to a commercial roster which already includes the likes of Lloyds Banking Group, Santander, Barclays and Perth’s own St Johnstone FC. The firm has also started 2016 with a raft of senior appointments. Employment lawyer Sally-Anne Ogilvie – who has a wealth of experience in the public, third and private sectors – has re-joined the firm from Harper Macleod. Property lawyers Chris Comfort, Sean MacMillan and Doug Telfer have been made Partners in Aberdeen, West Lothian and Glasgow respectively. Wills, trust and executries specialist Ryan Fox and family lawyer Isabelle Douglas, who both work across the north-east, have also been promoted to Partner. Dispute resolutions lawyers Ross Webb and Paul McIntosh, who are both based in Edinburgh take the number of new Partners up to eight. Solicitors Catriona Milne, Jennifer Yeats, Leah Bowman and Samantha Gilbert have been promoted to Associate.

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR OFFICE SPACE WITH OFF SITE STORAGE Perthshire’s leading storage provider, Keepsafe Storage Centres, is gearing up for a busy year in 2016, following the launch of a new website in September which has seen enquiries increase for its business storage and shredding services as Perthshire’s businesses seek to make the most of the office space they have. With commercial office space at a premium in the region, using off site storage services such as those offered by Keepsafe has become the savvy choice for any growing business. Used extensively for archiving and the storage of larger items which

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may be taking up valuable office floor space, Keepsafe has been enabling businesses to expand through the provision of flexible storage solutions for over 30 years. Anne Smith, managing director of Keepsafe Storage Centres commented: “They say a Spring clean is good for the soul, but it’s good for the work environment too. Dry, secure and accessible storage facilities are a must for any business that is looking to make the most of its office space. Regular archiving can free up substantial floor space, and maximise the space available, while many of our customers also make use of our secure shredding services which can dispose of commercially sensitive materials safely and securely.”

MEMBERS’ NEWS

The A. Proctor Group Ltd identified in London Stock Exchange’s ‘1000 Companies to Inspire Britain’

he A. Proctor Group has been identified as one of London Stock Exchange’s 1000 Companies to Inspire Britain. The report is a celebration of the UK’s fastest-growing and most dynamic small and medium sized businesses.

specialist product solutions continues. Their aim is to be the preferred and most trusted resource for the products and services required for the building envelope.

The A. Proctor Group have a long and successful history of pioneering technically advanced products to meet the challenges within the construction industry. For nearly 50 years, they have been providing an extensive portfolio of solutions in the areas of advanced thermal, acoustic, timber cladding and membrane products.

Keira Proctor, Managing Director of the A. Proctor Group said: “We are delighted to have been included in this Report and to have been identified as one of the LSE 1000 Companies to inspire Britain. It is not something that you can apply to be in so it was a well-received surprise for us. The list highlights the diversity of successful UK businesses. We would like to thank our employees who are our biggest asset for their hard work and dedication to the A. Proctor Group. Through innovation and hard work we are collectively responsible for growth in the business and successes.”

Keira Proctor, Managing Director of A. Proctor Group.

The A. Proctor Group continue to invest in Research & Development, so that their accomplishment of continuous

To be included in the list, companies needed to show consistent revenue growth over a minimum of three years, significantly outperforming their industry peers. More detail on the methodology can be found in the report online at www.1000companies.com.

Solas Festival gets set to entertain Solas Festival - Scotland’s midsummer gem – is a weekendlong celebration of music and the arts. Designed to entertain, inspire and challenge, artists and audiences gather at the beautiful site of The Bield at Blackruthven, Tibbermore in rural Perthshire. Now in its seventh year, this small-but-perfectlyformed celebration takes place from 17th-19th June 2016. This intimate midsummer festival sees the latest Scottish bands and the best traditional and folk musicians perform alongside quirky performance, award-winning spoken word and family friendly activities – in a welcoming all-age environment. Attracting performers from across the UK, the festival features a theme each year and this year the focus is ‘Beyond Borders’, challenging the concept of boundaries, from freedom of

movement and the physical borders experienced by refugees to some of the ‘borders’ that are a part of daily life for all of us, be they social, political or cultural. Paul Bush OBE, Director of Events at VisitScotland, said: “We are delighted to be supporting the always popular Solas Festival through our National Events Programme in 2016. Set in the scenic surrounds of Perthshire and presenting a diverse weekend-long programme of family-friendly activity, it is sure to be a huge hit with lovers of visual art, performance and music.” As ever, Solas will be the host for some exciting one-off events – from unique musical collaborations to a special live BBC broadcast from the festival.

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MEMBERS’ NEWS

HI TECH PRODUCTS FROM A PERTHSHIRE COMPANY Hydrostatic Extrusions Ltd (HELi) will be showcasing their products at the prestigious International Wire and Cable Trade Fair Dusseldorf April 4-8 when an expected 1,300 exhibitors from 50 countries will present their latest innovations. HELi is also processing a new Aluminium alloy precursor for light weight bicycle components, aircraft parts and other industrial applications. In 1973 the US Company National Standard opened a factory in North Muirton Perth. The US Company Bruker acquired it in 1991. HELi has the only operational Hydrostatic Extrusion press in the world and it is capable of generating up to 14000 atm of pressure during the extrusion cycle Since 1973 HELi has been producing Cuponal™ an alternative to copper busbars and wire for many applications. Over 12 million kg of Cuponal™ has been produced, this is equivalent to over 30 million kg of copper. End uses include components for electrical switchgear, busbars, transformers, marine, trains and the aircraft industry. Over 1 ton of Cuponal™ based wire is used in the manufacture of some modern passenger super jets. HELi has also processed materials for superconducting applications such as the Large Hadron Collider. Which in turn discovered the existence of the Higgs Boson in 2012. The company is hoping to continue increasing its output and international reputation year on year. It currently exports to over 30 countries. Last year they exported over 400t of Cuponal™, 5t of superconductors and over 40t of other materials. It currently employs 17 people.

BLUESKY EXPERIENCES LAUNCH BLUESKY IN A BOX Award winning experiential learning and corporate team building provider, BlueSky Experiences have expanded their offering by introducing BlueSky in a Box, a box designed to add a new dimension to conferences, team meetings and training programmes. Based at Methven, BlueSky developed the Box concept after they received client requests for activities to add value to the time they spent with their teams. Each Box contains 18 diverse, fun and challenging activities with equipment and instructions for teams to follow. Ideal for use during meetings, conferences or training sessions, BlueSky in a Box can be used to help teams or delegates get to know each other better, keep energy levels high and get teams working together effectively. James England, Managing Director of BlueSky Experiences, commented: “We are delighted to be launching BlueSky in a Box which will add value to many businesses’ meetings, team building activities and conferences. “The Box is very versatile. For example, it doesn’t have to be in the room that the activities are taking place because each of the Box’s pouches has its own icon which relates to the instructions. So if you want to run five breakout rooms with eight people in each, you can do that and introduce a ‘round robin’ style of team building session. “BlueSky in a Box is a very powerful and effective tool that offers a great deal of flexibility to trainers and internal teams. We look forward to distributing the Box across many organisations in 2016 and seeing businesses reap the benefits.”

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MEMBERS’ NEWS SCAA paramedics Craig McDonald (left) and John Salmond with the charity’s latest Rapid Response Vehicle which works in tandem with the life-saving helicopter air ambulance.

SCOTLAND’S CHARITY AIR AMBULANCE UNVEILS NEW ROAD BASED LIFE-SAVER Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance (SCAA) paramedics have taken to the road in and around Perth in their new upgraded Rapid Response Vehicle.

intervention,” he said. “Its spacious interior allows us to carry all the essential life-saving drugs and equipment for immediate treatment and resuscitation.

The Skoda Octavia 4 x 4 replaces the previous Kia Sportage which has become a familiar sight at emergencies within a fivemile radius of its Perth Airport base.

“The interior has also been customised for our specific needs, creating the perfect operational road partner for SCAA paramedics and a highly effective emergency response service for the critical care of patients.”

The RRV – which has been a part of SCAA’s life-saving options since the service launched in 2013 – is also used when the helicopter is offline for extreme weather or technical reasons. SCAA lead paramedic John Pritchard said the state-of-the-art hi-tech vehicle is another vital asset in SCAA’s fast reaction life-saving capabilities. “The new bespoke car gets paramedics rapidly to emergencies within the local area allowing early clinical assessment and

SCAA’s non-transporting paramedic response vehicle has been deployed over 100 times since the service launched and the latest upgraded model is already proving invaluable. SCAA Chief Executive David Craig explained that a rapid response road vehicle was a recognised asset within most charity air ambulance operations elsewhere in the UK.

180th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS AT MCLEOD GLAZIERS One of Perth’s oldest established businesses, McLeod Glaziers is delighted to be celebrating its 180th year in business and they are offering a number of special offers to their customers to celebrate their anniversary. From humble beginnings in St John’s Place with three employees, the operation is currently run from their Head Office at Inveralmond Industrial Estate, has grown to 25 employees and operates throughout Scotland. Previously owned and run by James Petterson, the firm is now run by his son, Derek, and his grandson, Gavin Maclean. Derek and Gavin are fiercely proud of the fact both they and the team at McLeods still have the same principals first established in 1836 – is a high level of customer care and an extensive range of top quality products on offer to their customers.

The company has always been proud of its ability to continually grow and keep up with changing tastes and trends of customers and therefore continues to be innovative. McLeods are continually developing new products and services on an ongoing basis. With a state-of-the-art glazing plant, McLeods stocks an extensive selection of glass which can be cut, polished and drilled for any application. As well as windows and doors, they also sell balustrades and splashbacks and the complete range of products is displayed as you would find them in your own home at their custom built showroom at Rosemary House.

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SPECIAL EVENT

Weeping Window poised to attract flood of visitors to Perth

cascading sculpture featuring thousands of ceramic poppies, created to commemorate the fallen of World War One, is poised to turn Perth into one of Scotland’s tourist hotspots this summer. POPPIES: Weeping Window by Paul Cummins, artist and Tom Piper, Designer, which formed part of the iconic Tower of London installation “Blood Swept Lands and Seas of Red” in 2014, is to be recreated at Balhousie Castle from June 30 to September 25.

"The Weeping Window will bring together people from Perth and across Scotland in remembrance in this beautiful and relevant location.” Weeping Window will see thousands of ceramic poppies cascade from the second floor Wavell Room in the turret of Balhousie Castle, spill out across the gravel and on to the grass.

The poignant flowing installation in Perth will be the touring artwork’s first appearance on Scotland’s mainland and the The Black Watch Watch Museum is delighted to have secured the honour.

“This remarkable artwork will bring the reality of the First World War to life for many people in the most artistic and poignant way,” explained Anne. “Every poppy that was used at the Tower of London installation represented a life lost between 1914 and 1918. That still has a resonance with many families both at home and abroad and we’re proud and humbled to be hosting this special event at Balhousie Castle in Perth.”

Anne Kinnes, chief executive of The Black Watch Castle and Museum, gave assurances that the sculpture, which has become a national symbol of remembrance, will find a poignant home at Balhousie Castle.

When this breathtaking sculpture was based at Woodhorn Colliery in Northumberland for six weeks last year it attracted over 125,000 visitors and Anne is confident the 12 week show at Balhousie Castle will welcome hundreds of thousands.

"Balhousie Castle offers something special as a home for this display,” she said. “Around 50,000 men served with The Black Watch during the Great War, with nearly 9000 making the ultimate sacrifice.

“The Castle usually attracts around 60,000 visitors a year so this will be an enormous boost for us,” she said. “It will help to make us one of the national – if not international – ‘must visit – must see’ destinations this summer.

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MEMBERS’ NEWS

“That will result in a much wider economic benefit for Perth city itself and the surrounding area and we are currently working closely with transport companies, hotels, eateries and other attractions and providers to capitalise on this opportunity and create the best possible visitor experience for those drawn to view Weeping Window.

COME AND CELEBRATE PERTH FESTIVAL’S 45th BIRTHDAY

“It is vital for the integrity of all those concerned – not least tourism in Scotland – that we deliver a world class product – the poppies and their visitors deserve nothing less. “This is a huge responsibility for Balhousie Castle and the people of Perth and Kinross.” Perth and Kinross Provost Liz Grant, said she was delighted that the museum had been chosen to host the "spectacular" sculpture this summer. "The Black Watch Castle and Museum represents an important part of the history of Perth and Kinross, and links to the sacrifice which so many soldiers and their families made to protect our country. "I look forward to welcoming visitors to Perth this summer as they take the opportunity to view this significant piece of art and reflect on the brave men and women who we honour with pride," she said.

This remarkable display will bring the reality of the First World War to life for many people in the most artistic and poignant way Local businesses are being invited to get involved with this once in a lifetime opportunity and Anne will be delighted to discuss opportunities to engage with the Museum throughout the summer months. “It’s also important that there is a legacy from this amazing event,” added Anne. “With that in mind we have decided to create a permanent poppy garden across the lawn where the ceramic artwork will flow. “People will be invited to scatter real poppy seed across that area of grass giving us a sea of bobbing red poppies every year in constant remembrance of those lost in WW1 and the display that served to remember them in 2016.” Perth will be one of 12 locations across the UK to host the poppies tour, organised by 14-18 Now, to mark the First World War.

This is a big year for Perth Festival as it celebrates its 45th birthday from the 19th to 29th May. One of the highlights in the cultural calendar and founded in 1972, it is one of Scotland’s oldest continuously running arts festivals. Well known names such as KT Tunstall, Jools Holland and his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra with special guests Pauline Black & Arthur “Gaps” Hendrickson from The Selecter, Apollo favourite Nina Conti and her “In Your Face” comedy show, Mercury Music Prize nominees The Unthanks, Manran, Dundee band Sinderins and Radio 4 favourites Alex Horne and The Horne Section will all appear at this year’s event. The Festival is delighted that KT Tunstall has accepted our invitation to play at the Festival. She is the perfect headliner with her new album out this year. Her local connections with St Andrews and Dundee should draw a great crowd to Perth Concert Hall on Friday 27th May. Classical music, as always, plays a big part in the event with BBC Proms regulars The John Wilson Orchestra opening the Festival with a glitzy Broadway programme and The Hallé Orchestra closing the Festival with Beethoven’s 5th Symphony. English Touring Opera will stage a new full production of Mozart’s “Don Giovanni” with elegant costumes, scenery and the 25 player ETO orchestra and worldclass choir, The Sixteen, return to St John’s Kirk with their Choral Pilgrimage. Other classical gems include Scottish Opera’s Pop-Up Opera Roadshow, a programme of Satie by Pascal and Ami Rogé, The Aquarelle Guitar Quartet and Children’s Classic Concerts perform a Roald Dahl celebration.

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DISCOVERY SPORT

INACCESSIBLE JUST BECAME ACCESSIBLE

DISCOVERY SPORT TD4 SE FROM £345 A MONTH +VAT ON LAND ROVER CONTRACT HIRE* The Discovery Sport has impressed the world since its launch. Now with a new EU6-compliant Ingenium diesel engine delivering up to 57.7mpg with CO2 as low as 129 g/km, it’s about to become very popular with business users everywhere.

Pentland Land Rover

Dunkeld Road, Perth, PH1 3GD

Tel: 01738 500 680 www.pentland.perth.landrover.co.uk Locations also at:

Discovery Sport 2.0L TD4 150HP Manual 4WD SE 5DR Monthly Contract Hire Rental* Initial Rental In Advance Excess Mileage (pence per mile) Annual Mileage Contract Duration

£345 +VAT £2,064 +VAT 9.3p +VAT 10,000 36 Months

Business users only. VAT payable at 20%. Model pictured (including optional metallic paint) from £353 a month +VAT, plus initial rental in advance of £2,116 +VAT.

Cupar Elgin Edinburgh Official Fuel Consumption Figures for the Discovery Sport TD4 150HP Manual 5 Door in mpg (l/100km): Urban 50.4 (5.6), Extra Urban 62.8 (4.5), Combined 57.7 (4.9). CO 2 emissions 129 g/km. Official EU Test Figures. For comparison purposes only. Real world figures may differ. *Important Information. Based on a Discovery Sport 2.0L TD4 150HP Manual 4WD SE with standard specification, non-maintained. Vehicle must be returned in good condition to avoid further charges. Contract Hire subject to status. This promotion cannot be used together with other manufacturer’s promotions and is subject to availability at participating Retailers only for new vehicles ordered by 31st March 2016. Contract Hire is provided by Land Rover Contract Hire, a trading style of Lex Autolease Limited, Heathside Park, Heathside Park Road, Stockport SK3 0RB. Model shown is the Discovery Sport 2.0L TD4 180HP Manual 4WD SE 5DR with optional metallic paint.

JAGUAR XE

RULE THE ROAD FOR LESS

Jaguar XE Prestige from £289 a month +VAT on Jaguar Contract Hire*

XE SALOON 2.0D (163) PRESTIGE 4DR MANUAL

Get ready to rewrite the rules. With an engine range that delivers thrilling performance and impressive efficiency of up to 75 mpg and CO2 as low as 99 g/km, the Jaguar XE redefines the sports saloon.

Monthly Jaguar Contract Hire Rental* Initial Rental In Advance Excess Mileage (pence per mile)

£289 +VAT £1,737 +VAT 9.1p +VAT

Annual Mileage Contract Duration PENTLAND JAGUAR 168 DUNKELD ROAD, PERTH, PH1 5AE WWW.PENTLANDJAGUAR.CO.UK 01738 500 651

10,000 36 Months

Business users only. VAT payable at 20%. Model pictured (including optional metallic paint and 18” Matrix wheels) from £323 a month +VAT, plus initial rental in advance of £1,944 +VAT.

THE ART OF PERFORMANCE Official fuel economy figures for the Jaguar XE 163PS Prestige in mpg (l/100km): Urban 64.2 (4.4); Extra Urban 83.1 (3.4); Combined 75.0 (3.8). CO2 Emissions 99 g/km. Official EU Test Figures. For comparison purposes only. Real world figures may differ. *Important Information. Based on an XE Saloon 2.0D Prestige 4dr standard specification, with a mileage of 10,000 miles per annum, non-maintained. Must be returned in good condition to avoid further charges. Contract Hire subject to status. This promotion cannot be used together with other manufacturer’s promotions and is subject to availability at participating Retailers only for new vehicles ordered by 31st March 2016. Contract Hire is provided by Jaguar Contract Hire, a trading style of Lex Autolease Limited, Heathside Park, Heathside Park Road, Stockport SK3 0RB. Model shown is an XE Saloon 2.0D 180S Prestige 4dr with optional Glacier White metallic paint and 18” Matrix wheels.

GUEST SPEAKER

T GUEASKER SPE

In the first in a new series in InCommerce magazine, our ‘guest speaker’ is Professor Gary McEwan, CEO of Elevator.

n Perthshire, we have a level of entrepreneurial spirit that may be a surprise to the central belt. Per head of population, Perthshire is certainly amongst the most entrepreneurial places in Scotland. Each year, my organisation, ELEVATOR, supports around 300 new businesses to start in Perthshire – a very healthy number when compared across the country. That being said though, when we think about the talent, expertise and wealth that resides here, this number, in my view represents under achievement. We are not underachievers but we have not fully unlocked the potential here. We have many thriving companies, however, it is also true that just 7% of business start-ups actually grow to any significant degree. This might suggest that something is missing from the equation. It doesn’t mean only 7% of businesses have the potential to grow. It means in most cases that 93% of entrepreneurs don’t recognise that they need to grow their skills, attributes and know-how to enable their business to grow. Clearly we need to create more new businesses, assist them to become stable and sustainability and then help those with the real potential to build a global company. It was in an effort to tackle these issues, my team and I set out to see how entrepreneurial cities worked globally – after all, show me a successful city and I will show you a vibrant start up culture. We spent time looking at cities that get this right and saw a number of things in common: They have created a central place where entrepreneurship is focussed. (all activities happen there, no fragmentation). This place tended to be well designed, stimulating, energetic, dynamic and contained great people. These beacons of

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entrepreneurship also demonstrated true collaboration between the public, private and education sectors. Once we understood the process, we wanted to try something in Scotland that could make a marked difference to the birth rate of Scottish companies and significantly improve the numbers achieving their potential. And so we built a new concept for Scotland – we created a Centre for Entrepreneurship in Aberdeen.

GUEST SPEAKER

We should be very proud of Perthshire. We are a highperforming region, we have enviable entrepreneurial drive and an appetite for growth We set out to achieve 3 key things. We wanted a vibrant and inspirational public access space; a re-invigorated Business Gateway delivery model; and an accelerator programme specifically aimed at the early stage businesses with the most potential. We wanted to create an environment that could unlock the potential of entrepreneurship in an area and see what effect that might have, and we have learned and been astonished by the results. My reason for telling you this is simple – we want ‘Elevator 2’ to be situated in Tayside. As a pilot, we created an environment specifically designed for entrepreneurs to be inspired and educated. The backbone of the centre is ‘The Accelerator’. Our vision for the accelerator is clear, to create a world class, globally recognised business accelerator. The accelerator offers 10 and 20 week intensive programmes for early stage businesses with global potential. These businesses come and live with us for the duration, while we provide an ‘Ivy league’ education in how to start and develop a global company. We do this by completely immersing them

in the programme, and surrounding them with professional advisers, industry experts and mentors. In addition to the talent available locally, we envisage the arrival of emerging teams from across the globe to participate in our accelerator, and our hope is that many of these will stay in the area, growing our local economy rather than returning to their own. As an organisation we already support over 2500 new business start-ups every year. The accelerator is not for all of them. The accelerator is for the small percentage of ambitious businesses that have greatest potential. So in summary, we should be very proud of Perthshire. We are a high-performing region, we have enviable entrepreneurial drive and an appetite for growth. But we may still lack ambition despite so much potential. The central belt now acknowledges that Elevator has created a beacon of Entrepreneurship for the region where there is spirit, energy, knowledge and information, and that this is the way forward when building an entrepreneurial economy. Times are changing, business modelling is changing, and opportunity abounds like no other time before. The pace of change is incredible. A close look at The Fortune 500 reveals un unprecedented volume of new companies that have scaled quickly and become corporate giants. Never have we seen how quickly emerging business models can change entire industries, just look at Uber and AirBnB. We need to unlock the potential of our region here, create more new businesses, have more of them with an international outlook and we need to harness and develop the talent right here in Perthshire.

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SOCIAL ENTERPRISE

Local businesses urged to join the

Y family

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f you were asked what Perth & District YMCA does? Would you have any idea?

Most would be astonished at the breadth of work a small, local charity undertakes and who have been recognised over many years for the work they do. Winning a number of awards for their efforts and expertise including: Prince’s Trust Celebrate Success 2014 – Perth Team 7 – Community Impact Award (Winner); SI Magazine Awards 2013 – Innovation of the Year (Winner); Scottish Mentoring Network – Project of the year 2012 – Plusone Mentoring (Winner); and even winning UK Charity of the Year in 2012 for their Plusone Mentoring project. Since 1995, Perth and District YMCA has worked to establish positive, trustful relationships with disengaged and vulnerable young people. Each year, they support between 200 and 300 young people who can often be challenging in their behaviour and chaotic in their life style so their primary focus on establishing positive relationships, is fundamental to all of the engagement. Their vision is to help young people build a future, providing young people with somewhere to go, something to do and someone to talk to and their projects cater for their social, emotional, spiritual, educational and employability needs.

SOCIAL ENTERPRISE Here are the thoughts of just one Y Family member:

VICKY KIRKLAND

Director, KBM Resourcing “When we were first approached by Jill McGrath about becoming a Y Family member we were instinctively inclined to help if possible, we were already aware of the work that Franny and the larger team at the YMCA do to help those young people most in need. What we hadn’t fully considered was the benefit to us as an organisation from that partnership.

A unique and innovative recent programme was Living Balance, the First Social Impact Bond in Scotland funded under the Innovation Fund. A model which brought together a public body ( Department for Work and Pensions), Private Investors and the Perth & District YMCA in order to achieve a social impact. In the case of Living Balance this was to support and empower disadvantaged young people to achieve qualifications and ultimately to move them into retained employment. Jill McGrath, CEO says: “We were thrilled to see local individuals, businesses and a local Church keen to invest and particularly interested in making a difference to the young people here in Perth and Kinross. This enabled us to increase our capacity, taking a person centred, flexible approach, which in turn has empowered our young people to achieve some fantastic results. Finishing in September 2015, Living Balance has proven to be a positive model for all partners which ultimately allowed us to support many more disadvantaged young people. We were delighted that all our investors were repaid in full with interest. “With our Living Balance project alone we were able to work with 1000 young people over the 3 year period.”

The results? 1022 – positive outcomes claimed 77% of young people achieved a positive outcome 55% gained employment 79% retained employment over 26 weeks 580 Employability Skills Qualification SCQF 4

“Being part of the Y Family has meant more than feeling good about the financial support we were able to offer (although both Jill and Franny have been fantastic at making sure we know what a difference that support has meant to their work). “We have directly benefited from engaging with Y Media who helped us develop our first corporate video. Y Pat have just finished testing our appliances in our office, Y Print have printed a variety of t shirts for our team events and we are hoping to be able to use Y Bounce & Events at one of our next team events. “That level of ongoing engagement has allowed us to get to know the team at the YMCA in Perth a bit more and during discussions with Jill and Franny it became clear that there was a way we could offer a different level of support via our business skill set so we have become involved in one of the programmes the YMCA offers their young people. “Our team – who would previously have had little or no knowledge of what struggles some young people face on a daily basis, particularly when trying to find a job – have learnt so much from that engagement. By visiting and running workshops at the YMCA in Perth, by attending presentations given by the young people and by hearing some of their incredibly moving stories at the Y Christmas Ball, we collectively feel our ongoing support of the YMCA in Perth via Y Family is now a priority. “We would encourage any organisation, no matter what size, to actively consider becoming a Y Family member, it goes beyond feeling good about meeting the needs of your social responsibility and could help your team feel very positively about the organisation they work for and their ability to make a difference to people’s lives.”

90 PX2 Developing Effective Thinking Skills SCQF 5

THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2016 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

SOCIAL ENTERPRISE Building relationships with young people is the heart of what Perth & District YMCA does. They use lots of different “tools” in building those relationships – detached youth work, mentoring, personal development, employment support, delivering qualifications and team building but in the end it’s about relationships. The other attitude that makes a foundation for the way they do things is – “we put people before structure”. In other words they always try to start with the young people – their needs, desires and aspirations. Then they look for a structure that meets those needs, if there isn’t a suitable structure then they will create one. Excellent examples of this approach is Y Family and Y Enterprise. Over the years the young people at the YMCA had often referred to them as ‘their YMCA family’. So over the last year they have explored what that means to the young people they work with? What does a real nurturing family look like? For many of their young people their experience of family hasn’t been positive.

Building relationships with young people is the heart of what Perth & District YMCA does So they have introduced a holistic, long term, flexible experience. Where alongside their core activity of personal development, mentoring, qualifications and employability skills the young people will have the opportunity to be involved in widening their horizons and experiencing new things that most of us take for granted. The simple things healthy breakfasts, cultural trips to theatre and museums, hillwalking and sporting activity, eating dinner sitting around a table reflecting on the day we have had, international trips … and the list goes on. All of these experiences build confidence which in turn prepares them for the world of work. Perth and District YMCA has been busy developing several social enterprises which give practical work experience in a supported environment. Also offering paid employment, 39

young people over the last 2 years. Keen to be less reliant on local government, grant and trust funding this also generates an income for the charity making it increasingly self-sufficient. Franny McGrath, Operations Manager says: “Through our Social Enterprises we are able to respond to a wide variety of need not only in Perth and Kinross but also throughout Scotland. We are extremely keen to expand our customer base and would encourage individuals and local business to consider Y Enterprise for their services, which in turn benefits local young people.” At the moment they have five enterprises: Y Media – This multi – media enterprise provides services and film production, graphic design, photography and digital animation. Some of our key work recently has been designing annual reports, Charity Ball Marketing material and promotional films for both corporate and third sector organisations. Y Bounce and Events – Our latest and most fun Enterprise boosts over 20 Inflatables, Sweet Cart, Candy Floss Machine and also a range of Marquees, all available to hire. Catering for any occasion from Corporate Events, Community Gala Days to Individual Birthday parties. This Enterprise also provides a range of outdoor activities including canoeing and canyoning. Y PAT – specialising in portable appliance testing and basic repairs. Recent customers have included Aberfeldy Parish Church, KBM Resourcing Ltd, Taymouth Marina and Fernbank House B/B. Our qualified technician provides very competitive rates. Y Print – we can provide custom designed T shirts, hoodies and work wear. Recent orders have included Aprons for Chilli Pepper Restaurant, Breadalbane school leavers’ hoodies and T shirts for the Breathe project in Aberfeldy. Y Create – Up-cycles old pieces of furniture which we sell on our YMCA Facebook site and from time to time in a pop up shop – dates advertised on our web site. Always on the lookout for donations of furniture with a free pick up service. Interested in becoming a YFamily member? Contact Jill McGrath, CEO – 01738 630121 / jill@ymcaperth.com www.ymcaperth.com

THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2016 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

Getting back to work, during or after treatment, can mean a lot to someone living with cancer. So who better than Macmillan to help you improve the support you give your staff? We can train you to manage the impact of cancer on your team. Sign up today for a free toolkit and to book our specialist training. Sign up online at macmillan.org.uk/atwork Email us at workandcancer@macmillan.org.uk Or call us on 020 7840 4725

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CHAMBER NEWS

PERTH SHOW VISITORS TO FEAST ON TASTY SHOWCASE FOOD FESTIVAL * Perth Show tables brand new attraction for 2016 * Perthshire On A Plate re-launched to showcase food and drink sector * City’s largest food festival cooks up something for everyone

erthshire Chamber of Commerce is serving up another helping of their food and drink extravaganza “Perthshire On A Plate”.

The festival, created originally as a showcase event for Perth’s 800th anniversary celebrations in 2010, brings together producers, retailers, chefs and all those involved in the food and drink industry throughout Perth and Kinross. This summer the two-day spectacular is being staged as an integral part of the popular Perth Show at Perth’s Lesser South Inch on Friday and Saturday, August 5 and 6. POAP organisers Vicki Unite and Maureen Young said they were delighted to be taking the food and drink showcase off the shelf to work with Perth Show. And Perth Show secretary Neil Forbes described the new partnership as “the perfect fit”. “Perth Show is a key date in the local calendar,” he said, “with the rural and city populations coming together for a celebration of the agricultural industry and equestrian sector. “This year we are keen to broaden that appeal and bring in a cookery theatre and food and drink marquee which would showcase the wealth and breadth of the area’s quality produce and culinary talent. The ideal solution to that ambition comes in the form of the tried and tested ‘Perthshire On A Plate’ festival.

Perth Show secretary Neil Forbes plans an exciting new dimension to this August’s event working with Perthshire On A Plate organisers Maureen Young (left) and Vicki Unite.

“The food and drink sector has a natural crossover to our agricultural industry and we are hopeful that this inaugural partnership will become an annual feature.” POAP will stage a programme of chefs at the Cookery Theatre throughout the two days and offer a range of “pop up” restaurants featuring taster dishes by local chefs which can be enjoyed in the new outdoor/indoor dining areas. A market marquee will showcase and sell produce and wares from a large number of local food and drink businesses.

“The Chamber of Commerce-promoted event is the perfect fit for Perth Show and I’m looking forward to working with event originators and organisers Maureen and Vicki on this exciting new addition to our annual offering.”

And youngsters won’t be forgotten with highlights including competitions to put tiny talent to the test and attractions that will have all-age appeal.

Chamber Chief Executive and POAP organiser Vicki Unite said the annual Perth Show offered the ideal platform for the food festival.

“Food events are staged the length and breadth of Scotland on an annual basis,” said POAP organiser Maureen Young, “and they never fail to appeal to the trade and the public.

“Perthshire is really the top shelf of Scotland’s larder with an abundance of prime quality produce covering everything from game to soft fruit,” she said.

“Perthshire on a Plate is the largest food festival ever staged in the City and, ideally, it should be an annual event. There will be something for everyone – all ages and all tastes,” she said.

“Perthshire On A Plate will showcase that larder with the help of producers, suppliers, retailers and experts from across the county.

“We hope POAP will turn the focus for food in Scotland firmly back on Perthshire and where better to achieve that than alongside the region’s historic annual agricultural show.”

THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2016 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

CHAMBER SPONSORS

PARTNERSHIPS ENHANCE CHAMBER OFFERING

Platinum Partners

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.”

Gold Partners

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.”

Silver Partners

Vicki is happy to discuss Sponsor Partner packages with both existing and potential supporters at any time. “It really is a partnership and all our Platinum, Gold and Silver partners deserve the grateful thanks of the Board, staff and membership of the Chamber.”

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CHAMBER NEWS

UNIQUE CHAMBER TRAINING INITIATIVE OFFERS OPPORTUNITIES FOR ALL

usinesses and individuals across Perth and Kinross are set to benefit from an exciting new training initiative being rolled out by Perthshire Chamber of Commerce.

The Chamber’s dynamic, extensive and pioneering new Training Hub comes in response to the needs of local business people keen to up skill themselves or key personnel within their workforce. Reacting to need – as well as identifying emerging opportunities – the Chamber’s new training schedule has brought together a raft of member businesses to deliver the classes and courses in a unique collaboration of experts. Experienced trainers and specialists are working together to deliver a diverse programme of sessions for the Chamber – each designed to a specific audience but available to all. “It is important to invest in both yourself and your staff,” explained Perthshire Chamber Chief Executive Vicki Unite, “and one of the key areas to do this is through training. “Through the Chamber network we can source some of the best trainers in the business and work with them to tailor and deliver the courses and classes to meet local needs. “This Training Hub is a unique and exciting development for the Chamber and it will hopefully grow and adapt as we examine feedback from local businesses.” Vicki explained that with many businesses streamlining their workforce, some business people find themselves covering additional roles they were not trained for. Equally, many people working solo or in SMEs find they have to be multiskilled in a variety of disciplines. “Training is investment in people – it also makes them feel valued,” she said. “Every employee or boss is a resource and

THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2016 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

that resource has to be upgraded from time to time – just as we would do with a computer or photocopier – in order to stay abreast of today’s fast-paced and constantly changing business world. “By using the Chamber’s new training opportunities people can relax in the knowledge that they are being helped by some of the best in their field within Perth and Kinross and that their investment will prove educational. Informative and enjoyable.” Many training classes and courses delivered through the Chamber will involve knowledge sharing, interaction, personal experiences and exercise scenarios. Students will also network with many like-minded business people and hopefully master new skills and flourish in the relaxed training environment. The classes will cover a vast range of topics from HR and Employment Law, Food Hygiene, Emergency First Aid at Work and Transforming Meetings to Personal Development, Presentation Skills and Media/PR – and many more besides. Classes range from two hours to several days and some feature relevant accreditation on successful completion. Many will be delivered at the Chamber’s centrally located Saltire House headquarters while others – depending on numbers – will be outsourced to suitable locations. Relevant course materials will be supplied and Chamber members will be offered a discount on class fees. Each class will be publicised and promoted in advance of delivery date allowing anyone interested plenty of time to enroll. For further details on any aspect of the training schedule for 2016, please contact the Chamber at: T: 01738-448325 E: info@perthshirechamber.co.uk

CHAMBER NEWS AMONG THE CLASSES AND COURSES ON OFFER OVER THE COMING MONTHS – AND THOSE EXPERTS AND TRAINERS HELPING TO DELIVER THEM – ARE:

W2 Training “Incubating Innovation Workshop”

Bluesky

To help you accelerate and incubate innovation in your business. W2, an international business facilitation organisation with 23 years’ experience and a reputation for excellence in improving personal and business performance, have collaborated with Juice Box Design who specialise in Innovation to co facilitate this workshop. This fun, experiential workshop using the latest in design thinking and innovation, will equip you with the skills and tools to spark improvements in your company’s innovation. The Workshop will be led by Melanie Morris Learning Facilitator and Jasmine Morris Director Innovation. www.w2training.com www.juiceboxdesign.com Designed to help businesses develop new product or services; improve systems and processes; or engage your people in the creation of innovative ideas.

Gary Robinson Communications

“Personal Effectiveness” Workshop At BlueSky Experiences we are dedicated to inspire, develop and reward your people with engaging personal development, team building and reward orientated programmes. Our Personal Effectiveness with Insights Discovery programme will be led by James England who has a wealth of experience in developing individuals and teams in all sectors from Corporates to SMEs. This programme is ideal if you wish to: • • • •

Understand your unique personality Develop your interpersonal skills Improve your communication Create better personal & professional relationships.

Your Discovery Profile will provide information on your individual strengths and weaknesses, communication style and will include suggestions for development. Min Group Size 8 – Max Group Size 15

“Presenting for Professionals” Your tutor is Gary Robinson, a professional presenter, conference host and facilitator with over 23 years of senior media experience. Gary is also an ILM accredited business coach & mentor. This course has been designed by media professionals with years of experience in presentation styles, marketing and broadcasting. The course is delivered by professionals with front-line experience and is endorsed by Perthshire Chamber of Commerce. You will gain invaluable skills with regard to: • • • • • •

Your individual presentation style including voice, stage presence and enthusiasm How to control nerves How to address an audience of two to two hundred What (and what not to do) with Power Point Understanding your Audience How to make your presentation unique

You will have the opportunity to rehearse a crucial presentation, have it reviewed and fine-tuned which will ensure your presentation style will stand-out from the competition.

Rowan Consultancy “Management Today” – Nov 29th and Dec 13th This training is for managers who haven’t received any management training before. You may have many years’ managerial experience or be new to a management role. You have probably spent several years attaining proficiency in your specialist area, but as a manager, you have a whole new skill-set to acquire! You will learn: • • • •

How to delegate What your management style is How to give feedback How to manage change

The course is endorsed by Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM) for its content and high standard. It is delivered by Rachel Weiss, an accredited coach and experienced manager. See http://www.rowan-consultancy.co.uk/Training/ management_today.htm for more details.

This course is designed for any business or individual in Perth and Perthshire who rely on winning business (or a new career) with outstanding presentations. Continued

THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2016 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

CHAMBER NEWS

Training 4 Life “Emergency First Aid at Work” and “First Aid at Work” Ian Dargie is the training manager at Training4Life (Scotland). With over 45 years’ involvement as a first aider, police officer and lifeguard, he has a wealth of knowledge and experience – as well as experiences – that he is eager to share. Ian will be delivering the one-day Emergency First Aid at Work course, with the option to expand this into the-three day First Aid at Work. These are Level 2 QCF courses, accredited through Qualsafe Awards, who are approved by Ofqual and the SQA. Both these courses are ideal for employees whose duties include the provision of first in the workplace, and ensure compliance with the H&S (First Aid) Regs., 1981

Sutler Press + PR “Maximising Your PR Potential and Working With The Media” Experienced journalist, broadcaster and PR consultant Maureen Young will teach you how to identify PR material within your company, make it interesting for the media and the consumer and how to work with the media to attract maximum publicity for your products and/or services. Using examples from her own wealth of experience, fun interactive role play and some enjoyable exercises, Maureen will develop your ability to identify, prepare and outsource material that will get your company noticed and bring it to the attention of a much wider local, national or even international audience using all media platforms. 2-3 hour class aimed at SMEs who do not employ their own PR staff or individuals new to the role.

Perth College “ECDL” and “Effective Social Media for your Business” At Perth College UHI, they offer courses at various levels to suit your needs. Perth College offers degree and post graduate level study through our membership of the University of the Highlands and Islands as well as a range of Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) approved academic and vocational qualifications. They also offer a wide range of part time and short courses for organisations and individuals who wish to continue their own professional development, acquire new skills or industry specific qualifications. Some of these courses are eligible for ILA Funding. See www.perth.uhi.ac.uk for more information

THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2016 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

The Mudd Partnership “Transforming Meetings” and “Social Business Today” “As part of their renowned Super Performance Series, The Mudd Partnership in conjunction with Perthshire Chamber, is proud to offer two training events from their exclusive SPS Business Portfolio, geared to give you both the competitive and performance edge. Transforming Meetings: Ever wondered what’s the real point of business meetings? Join accredited trainer Anne Gibb, who will take you through the ground breaking work of ‘Time To Think’ author Nancy Kline and show you how you can create a ‘Thinking Environment’ and run your meetings more effectively, engage everyone on the room, make better decisions and save both time and money. Social Business Today: Yesterday was yesterday and so unfortunately is yesterday’s social media. Join Chloe Forbes-Kindlen and get the inside track on how Social Media Today and in the future can radically transform how you do business and the profits you make.

Tickety Boo “Elementary Food Hygiene” and “Effective Selling” With people at the heart of almost every business, they are your most important resource. Tickety Boo Training’s mission is to help your team develop to be the very best they can be through a range of training and coaching methods including our accredited industry-leading development programmes. An accredited Institute of Leadership & Management (ILM) centre, Tickety Boo Training has proven track records in helping business owners and their teams increase the effectiveness of their performance and progress through programmes designed specifically to suit your requirements. Specialising in Executive and Management training, group training techniques and legislative training we work with some of Scotland’s leading employers to deliver exceptional results each and every time. For more information about Tickety Boo Training and our public training courses visit www.allticketyboo.com

CHAMBER NEWS

2016 TRAINING DIARY APRIL Thursday 14th

Effective Social Media for your business: Facebook

1730 – 2030

Perth College

Perth

£35

Thursday 28th

Effective Social Media for your business: Twitter

1730 – 2030

Perth College

Perth

£35

Tuesday 10th

Personal Effectiveness with Insights Discovery

0930 – 1230

BlueSky Experience

Methven

£125 + VAT (Members) £155 + VAT (Non Members)

Thursday 12th

Effective Social Media for your business: YouTube

1730 – 2030

Perth College

Perth

£35

Thursday 26th

Effective Social Media for your business: Linkedin

1730 – 2030

Perth College

Perth

£35

Tuesday 31st

Elementary Food Hygiene

0930 – 1630

Saltire House

Perth

£81 + VAT (Members) £90 + VAT (Non Members)

Thursday 9th

Effective Social Media for your business: MailChimp & Eventbrite

1730 – 2030

Perth College

Perth

£35

Thursday 23rd

Effective Social Media for your business: Live Streaming

1730 – 2030

Perth College

Perth

£35

Socal Business Today

0900 – 1300

The Mudd Partnership

Perth

£62.10 + VAT (Members) £69 + VAT (Non Members)

Transforming Meetings

0900 – 1730

The Mudd Partnership

Perth

£161 + VAT (Members) £179 + VAT (Non Members)

Wednesday 7th

WorldHost: The Principles of Customer Service

930 – 1630

Drummond House

Perth

£76.50 (Members) £85 (Non Members or ILA)

Tuesday 13th & Wednesday 14th

Innovation – The Key to Business Success

0900 – 1700

Venue TBC

Perth

£465 + VAT (Members) £550 + VAT (Non Members)

Thursday 15th

Effective Selling

0930 – 1630

Saltire House

Perth

£134 +VAT (Members) £149.00 + VAT (Non Members)

Monday 16th

Emergency First Aid at Work

0900 – 1600

Algo Business Centre

Perth

£72 (Members) £80 (Non Members)

Monday 16th – Wednesday 18th

First Aid at Work

0900 – 1600

Algo Business Centre

Perth

£180 (Members) £200 (Non Members)

Tuesday 29th

Management Today – Part 1

0930 – 1530

Rowan Consultancy

Perth

£335 + VAT (Members) £375 + VAT (Non Members)

Management Today – Part 2

0930 – 12.30

Rowan Consultancy

Perth

3 hours

At your business

MAY

JUNE

JULY Thursday 14th

AUGUST Tuesday 23rd

SEPTEMBER

NOVEMBER

DECEMBER Tuesday 13th

ON GOING UNTIL NOVEMBER 2016 Date of your choice Presenting for Professionals

£130 + VAT (Members) £160 + VAT (Non Members)

THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2016 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

CHAMBER NEWS

Supported by

Perthshire Chamber of Commerce Golf Day Strathmore Golf Club Afternoon of Friday 26th August 2016 Shotgun start at 1.30pm (arrival 12 noon)

CHAMBER BREAKFAST CELEBRATES OPENING OF TAY SALMON SEASON Over 150 members of the local business community gathered at the Chamber’s Business Breakfast in January at the Dunkeld Hilton House to celebrate the opening of the Tay Salmon Season and hear guest speaker environment minister, Dr Aileen McLeod. Members of the local community then joined the party down on the banks of the Tay for the official ceremony where tradition sees the Tay blessed with a wee dram followed by Dr Aileen McLeod making the first cast of the year. Mike McDiarmid, President of the Perthshire Chamber of Commerce said: “The Scottish Highlands and Perthshire offer some of the finest salmon fishing and scenery in Scotland with the Tay salmon fishing renowned all over the world. Salmon angling on the Tay is not just a pastime enjoyed by many from all walks of life across the UK and overseas but is also a significant contributor to the local economy and this helps support Perthshire’s economy and jobs, particularly in remote and fragile areas that may otherwise struggle to survive in today’s tough climate.

Following on from the hugely successful 2015 event at Murrayshall Hotel, we are thrilled to invite you to book your places at our 2016 Annual Golf Day which will take place at Strathmore Golf Club. The afternoon will tee off with a hot filled roll, tea/coffee/juice upon arrival followed by a round of golf on the terrific 18 hole Rannaleroch Course. After this you can enjoy a two course meal, tea/coffee/juice and the golfing greats of the day will be rewarded at the prize-giving ceremony. Perthshire Chamber is pleased to announce that, following on from the very successful partnership with Carbon Financial Partners Ltd we have enjoyed in the past, they have agreed to sponsor this event and enable us to offer what promises to be a very memorable day.

“We are delighted to have been associated with this event for the past four years as it provides a first class opportunity to boost business connections, discuss topics of the day and celebrate an activity that contributes so much to the local community.” At this years breakfast, we also celebrated one of the largest salmon caught on Scottish waters in 2015 with the FishPal Malloch Trophy presentation.

Carbon’s managing director, Gordon Wilson, is looking forward to it: “After the success of the last four years, Carbon is delighted to be sponsoring the Chamber Golf event again. The Chamber and Strathmore Golf Club have put together a fantastic and exclusive day to remember, which I am sure will prove hugely popular with members and their guests. I would book right away as this event is sure to sell out fast!” Perthshire Chamber of Commerce’s Chief Executive, Vicki Unite, is also excited about this event: “We are delighted to have the support of Carbon Financial Partners for the fifth year running. With a sterling package provided by Strathmore Golf Club, we are very much looking forward to providing a wonderful day of golfing excitement and hope to build on our Chamber Annual Golf Day success.” You can book your places and teams at the Golf Day by emailing the Chamber office at events@perthshirechamber.co.uk or calling us on 01738 448325. Teams cost £200 + VAT, single places are £50 + VAT which includes tea/ coffee, hot rolls, two course meal and prize giving. As in previous years, we expect this event to sell out fast so please do book your places at your earliest convenience to avoid disappointment. We look forward to seeing you then.

20 Rubislaw Terrace Aberdeen AB10 1XE

61 Manor Place Edinburgh EH3 7EG

3 Atholl Place Perth PH1 5ND

T 01224 633263

T 0131 220 0000

T 01738 443111

www.carbonfinancial.co.uk

@carbonfin facebook.com/carbonfp

THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2016 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

Environment minister, Aileen McLeod, leads guests to the river bank.

BUSINESS SUPPORT

DELIVERING WORLD CLASS

CONNECTIVITY TO PERTHSHIRE

he £410 million Digital Scotland Superfast Broadband (DSSB) programme is busy installing fibre broadband across Perthshire, connecting areas which weren’t going to be covered commercially. It’s part of the Scottish Government’s plans to ensure that Scotland is a world class digital nation by 2020.

and compete globally through an improved online presence, use video conferencing and work flexibly from any location.

The principles behind the programme involve bringing faster speeds to as many people as possible with the funding available.

However, one initiative that will help deliver improved broadband connectivity, including superfast broadband, to the final 5% is Community Broadband Scotland (CBS) which works with remote communities to deliver local broadband projects.

As recently as 2013, only 52% of premises in Scotland could access fibre broadband, now 85% can. By the end of March 2018, 95% of homes and businesses will be able to connect. The faster upload and download speeds fibre broadband brings is improving the quality of online experiences and supporting exciting new developments in internet services across the country. At home everyone can be online at the same time without screens freezing or quality being compromised, especially important if people want to run a business or work from home. Businesses can: take advantage of the latest business software through cloud computing, back up data instantly, work locally

Budget constraints and technical challenges mean around 5% of Scotland will not be part of DSSB programme’s roll-out of fibre broadband.

Provided by Sara Budge, Programme Director, Digital Scotland Superfast Broadband Programme www.scotlandsuperfast.com

Sara Budge, Digital Scotland Superfast Broadband Programme

THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2016 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

BUSINESS SUPPORT

PROPERTY PREDICTIONS 2016 Quarter 1 listing figures for 2016 will give an indicator of what path the property market is going to take. During quarter 1 I think we will see an increase in the number of properties coming on the market and an increase in the amount of new build stock available from developers. This increase in stock, in addition with changes in LBTT, may have a curtailing impact on property prices with any increase being more reflective of income. There may be an increase in the Bank of England base rate towards the end of 2016 although this will be and perhaps already has been priced into mortgage deals.

Potential bumps on this road:•

The Scottish Elections could lead to uncertainty. It’s been mentioned that property investment in Scotland is being curtailed due to this.

•

Changes to LBTT may have a detrimental impact on property investor market in Scotland and could impact the property rental market.

•

Brexit – a European referendum in 2016 may lead to increased political uncertainty.

In relation to the Scottish property market my wishes include: •

The removal of the Home Report

•

Increased assistance for 1st time buyers

•

A review of LBTT bandings and the 3% surcharge for second properties.

•

The removal of tax relief for Buy to Let investment.

In summary I predict a 10-15% increase in activity with an increase in house prices probably averaging around the 2-4% mark. Quarter 1 figures of properties coming on the market will be of most interest.

Lindsay Darroch, Blackadders

THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2016 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

Provided by Lindsay Darroch, Head of Property at Blackadders. Email: lindsay.darroch@blackadders.co.uk Tel: 01382 229222

BUSINESS SUPPORT

EASTER HOLIDAYS COULD MEAN CONTRACT DISPUTES FOR EMPLOYERS

ayside solicitors Miller Hendry are warning employers could leave themselves open to employment contract disputes if they fail to take account of how the Easter holidays fall this year and next. Because Easter falls in March in 2016 and April in 2017, firms with holiday entitlements that stretch from April 1st to March 31st could be accused of short-changing employees over their statutory annual leave. Miller Hendry is urging employers to check the wording of their employment contracts to avoid any possible disputes with employees. Whether or not employers need to change employment contracts will depend on how their contracts are worded. Contracts with wording to the effect “20 days holiday plus eight public holidays” are a cause for concern, whereas contracts which include public holidays within the stated holiday entitlement are not.

two Easter holidays within one holiday year. This is, of course, providing that their local area considers Easter Monday and Good Friday to be public holidays, which not all do. “Technically, employers have a few options to avoid possible breach of contract, the simplest of which may be to consider permanently amending employment contracts so that holidays run from January to December or are worded to be inclusive of public holidays.” Provided by Alan Matthew, Miller Hendry Email: AlanMatthew@millerhendry.co.uk Tel: 01738 637311

Alan Matthew, partner and employment law expert at Miller Hendry, explained: “This is a quirk of the calendar and how Easter falls differently every year, but it’s a serious issue. As a result of Easter being earlier this year, employees may have the opportunity to take

Alan Matthew, Miller Hendry

THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2016 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

BUSINESS SUPPORT

ENERGY PROCUREMENT: COST SAVING GUIDE FOR SMES

t present small businesses are collectively paying around £500 million more than they should for their energy.

In provisional findings by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), the average prices offered by the “big six” companies were around 14% above the “competitive level” for SMEs. If you’re looking to save on energy costs, there are several practices that should form the basis of an effective energy procurement strategy. Take full advantage of competition in the market – the CMA estimate average potential gains from simply switching supplier to be 14% of the average bill. Due to the confusing way energy is measured and billed, however, comparing deals can be understandably daunting. Implementing a tendering procedure to compare quotes on a like-for-like basis is central.

Stay on top of renewals – one of the biggest obstacles facing businesses with regards to their energy portfolio is the renewal process. Failure to terminate contracts in time could mean up to a 120% increase in current rates – having significant consequences on accounts. Ensure ongoing monitoring – making sure correct rates are applied and issues resolved quickly requires continual review. It is often the case that new contracts and supply transfers accrue errors, forming the majority of complaints to the big six. With the time and resources necessary to dedicate to energy procurement it can prove a major distraction from core business tasks. It’s perhaps not surprising then that many SMEs outsource the function, benefiting from cost savings minus the hassle. Provided by Douglas Reid, Managing Director at MDG Group Email: mail@mdggroup.co.uk Tel: 01738 474 630

Douglas Reid, MDG Group

THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2016 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

BUSINESS SUPPORT

GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCEMENT IS NO RELIEF FOR COMMERCIAL LANDLORDS

he Scottish Government has decided to scrap vacant rates relief for all industrial property at the end of the current tax year in a move which could potentially cost those with vacant properties tens of thousands in void costs which were not previously accounted for in 2016 budgets. Proposals would see the 100% rates relief for vacant industrial properties abolished and mean that landlords who have vacant industrial properties will only be given three months full relief before they are liable for 90% of the rates payable. Added to this, the government has announced that properties with a rateable value in excess of £35,000 will now also pay a higher supplement. This double whammy would mean landlords with vacant industrial property with a rateable value in excess of £100,000 will now pay approximately £45,000 per annum on business rates as opposed to the current system, where they would be paying nothing.

simply choose to demolish and clear sites rather than hold firm and pay the vacant rates whilst they wait for the market to improve. It is Bidwells view that this will lead to a shortage of industrial supply to accommodate new business. Whilst one might argue that it would force landlords to replace older/obsolete industrial stock it is likely that newer industrial property built in the last decade will be demolished when owners are facing 90% vacant rates liability. It will further hamper speculative development as there will be little incentive for developers to enter the market with these additional costs and risk. Bidwells Commercial team can provide further advice to commercial landlords/developers on these changes and also provide advice to tenants on how to limit their future rates liability. Provided by Graeme Duncan, Partner, Bidwells, Email: graeme.duncan@bidwells.co.uk Tel: 01738 494123,

In addition, vacant Scottish office and retail property will have the current three month initial exemption abolished and replaced with a 50% exemption for three months and thereafter a paltry 10% exemption if the property remains vacant. Rather than being a new lucrative revenue stream for the Scottish Government, the likelihood is that many investors who are facing large void costs on their industrial stock will

Graeme Duncan, Bidwells

THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2016 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

NEW MEMBER PROFILES

Wilde Thyme at Glenturret

WILDE TIME AT GLENTURRET Glenturret Distillery, The Hosh, Crieff PH7 4HA Tel: 01764 657031 Email: info@wilde-thyme.co.uk Web: www.wildethymeatglenturret.com Contact: Andrew Hamer

Award-winning chef Andrew Hamer and Scotland’s oldest working distillery, Glenturret, are celebrating their first anniversary at Wilde Thyme at Glenturret – a unique culinary experience in Crieff.

both indoor and outdoor events, as well as sit-down or more informal dining. Events are often combined with private tours of the distillery. Add-on entertainment has included a Scottish piper on arrival and live bands.

In a combination that’s historic, mouthwatering and inspired all at the same time, Wilde Thyme’s culinary expertise and Scotland’s national drink came together in 2015 to form a unique new venue for Perthshire.

The unique combination of having a venue run by a multi-award winning luxury event catering company, Wilde Thyme, and an equally multi-award winning visitor attraction and distillery, The Famous Grouse Experience, is already proving popular with a combination of corporate, private and tourism customers, offering their guests a traditionally Scottish event experience, in a five star setting.

Now a year old, Wilde Thyme at Glenturret is continuing to make its mark as an event venue with a difference. With a capacity of up to 160, it serves fine Scottish fare in a setting that can cater for

Andrew Hamer commented: “It’s been a busy year for us at Wilde Thyme at Glenturret and we’re delighted to have played host to events and guests from around the world as well as for anniversaries, birthday parties and even weddings for customers much closer to home. It’s an idyllic setting, with something very special to offer the event planner and we look forward to what 2016 has to bring.” To book an event at Wilde Thyme at Glenturret, visit www.wildethymeatglenturret.com for more information.

Juice Box Design

JUICE BOX DESIGN Orchard Neuk Cottage, Rhynd, Perth PH2 8QJ Tel: 01738 783662 Email: info@juiceboxdesign.co.uk Web: www.juiceboxdesign.co.uk Contact: Jasmine Morris

Juice Box Design is a quirky and fresh design, branding and innovation company that specialises in shaping new and existing companies’ identities, products and services; Juice Box incubates positive change through disruptive creativity and design. Their inspiring team of innovation, design and branding specialists headed by Jasmine Morris and Owain Cowx, takes a personalised approach to each client’s creative needs. Based near Rhynd just outside of Perth, you will find their creative studio where they ‘squeeze the juiciest ideas, never from concentrate’.

other companies utilise their inner creativity. They work co-creatively with their clients to help improve design, branding and in house innovation using tools such as creative ideation workshops, research and strategy development and graphical design. They believe by combining different teams’ skill sets they can offer a broader spectrum to creative problems within organisations and aid them to future success. Juice Box believes in sharing their proven methods and knowledge with all clients to inspire the development of their design, branding and innovation.

Juice Box believes design, branding and innovation are key factors to business success and want to help

• They help your business raise its game with design, branding and innovation.

• They bring a new and fresh perspective to your business. • Juice Box combines best practice models from multiple disciplines to guarantee results. • They review your businesses needs and create tailor made packages designed for you. • They help to increase profitability and improve productivity giving you a competitive edge.

So Why Juice Box?

Greyfriars Bar

GREYFRIARS BAR 15 South St, Perth PH2 8PG Tel: 01738 633036 Email: cxxwhyte@hotmail.com Contact: Christina Whyte

Greyfriars is a well-known, bustling bar within Perth’s city centre, recently under new ownership. Manager Christina Whyte and her team provide a warm welcome to patrons to come visit the recently refurbished bar and sample the traditional real ales, beers, wines and spirits for which Greyfriars is renowned. They also offer coffee, a lunchtime bowl of soup and filled rolls when you need a break from a busy day’s shopping. The bar is popular with locals, but always enjoys a stream of visitors to Perth who are attracted by the Scottish feel to the venue and the fact that there is a regular programme of varied genres of live

THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2016 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

music. From Scottish Traditional Music nights to Open Mic sessions and popular local bands, Greyfriars attracts a varied age group with its casual, easy-going style of hospitality. Christina said: “We are delighted with the new bar area downstairs and early 2016 will see us embark upon refurbishment of the upstairs area which will be transformed into a comfortable lounge. We are planning to hold wine tastings, craft gin evenings and various other events upstairs in this private setting. It will also be for informal daytime meetings and available for small private parties or for small groups to hold meetings.”

The team at Greyfriars are proud of their heritage, but are very excited about what the future holds for the bar. They would be delighted for you to come down and sample some of their Greyfriars hospitality.

NEW MEMBER PROFILES

ABC Business Services ABC Business Services provides clients with leading administration, bookkeeping and consultancy services which lets their clients get on with what they do best – running their business.

ABC BUSINESS SERVICES Rosemary House, Inveralmond Road, Perth, PH1 3TW Tel: 01738 230135 Email: lesley@abcperth.co.uk Web: www.abcbusinessservices.co.uk Contact: Lesley Keillor

The experienced team at ABC offers a depth and breadth of services – from processing purchase invoices to preparing sales invoices and turning them into meaningful financial statements for their clients. They can even take on a credit controller’s role and help collect their clients’ fees. It is obvious that when a business starts up it needs support and advice but, perhaps more importantly, when a business begins to grow ABC are there to provide consultancy advice and

be a sounding board for business owners, whether it be general management advice, operational support or marketing services. ABC have the ability to provide an ongoing outsource arrangement aimed at delivering services which are perhaps non-core to the business operation or where resources are too specialist for the business to justify employing resource on a permanent basis. An important objective for outsourcing certain business activities is, of course, cost reduction thus allowing clients to focus on what they do best without incurring excessive financial overhead.

therefore, each client will receive a bespoke service dedicated to their needs. The team would be delighted for you to contact them to discuss your needs and how they can help your business grow.

ABC Business Services believe in treating each client as an individual as no two businesses are the same,

Small City, Big Personality

SMALL CITY, BIG PERSONALITY 22 Friar Street, Perth PH2 0ED Tel: 07983505716 Email: nicola@theredstringagency.co.uk Contact: Nicola Martin

Small City, Big Personality is the only online magazine dedicated to showcasing the best of Perth, Perthshire and the people and events who breathe life into this wonderful small city. Featuring regular columns around local Big Personalities, weekly recipes, human interest stories, family fun, Perthshire adventures, events, chat and news, #SmallCity has quickly taken its place as a much-loved and extremely popular online publication. The magazine is owned and run by Nicola Martin of The Red String Agency, a PR and marketing professional with 20 years experience under her belt. Like all of her industry peers,

Nicola’s strategies over the past five years have shifted dramatically to reflect this big, bright age of digital; phones instead of leaflets, Facebook instead of local news ads and search engines instead of telephone directories. This shift saw Nicola become increasingly frustrated with the lack of positive, online channels for a local audience. This prompted her to create a publication she’d enjoy reading personally and using professionally. Built on our almost insatiable appetite for human interest stories, #SmallCity celebrates Perthshire and its people and has adopted a vibrant tone, alive with an energy that is fun, quirky and fabulous.

Eighteen months on, the magazine attracts over 40,000 page views each month from some 15,000 regular readers. #SmallCity has a magazine style business model that uses engaging, original content to attract visitors to the site and then allows businesses hoping to target these readers to book online advertising or advertorial which will then be pushed out via their popular social media channels.

Training4Life (Scotland)

TRAINING LIFE SCOTLAND

TRAINING4LIFE (SCOTLAND) PO Box 7628, Perth PH2 1ET Tel: 01738 564644 Email: info@t4ls.co.uk Web: www.training4lifescotland.com Contact: Ian Dargie

“ Yo u [ t h e e m p l oye r ] a re responsible for making sure that your employees receive immediate attention if they are taken ill or are injured at work. Accidents and illness can happen at any time and first aid can save lives and prevent minor injuries from becoming major ones...” These are the opening words on the Health & Safety Executive’s website regarding first aid and yet a recent survey showed that a remarkable number of businesses have no first aid provision at all. Training4Life (Scotland) have been providing first aid training across Tayside, as well as throughout Scotland and the UK, for over eight years. Specialising in

in-house training, the “t4ls” team deliver the bench-mark First Aid at Work course – and the newer Emergency First Aid at work course – at a time, place, pace and price to suit both employers and staff. Training director, Ian Dargie, said: “Few employers realise that savings can be made by running an in-house course for as few as three employees, compared to sending staff out for training. But, most importantly, training should be enjoyable. People don’t learn if they are bored stiff !”

CPR training for GPs and their staff, paediatric first aid and a number of on-line courses in subjects such as food safety, manual handling and fire safety. Courses can be arranged in office hours, evenings or weekends. Discounts are available for Perthshire Chamber of Commerce members.

As well as basic first aid, Training4Life (Scotland) also provide Medical Emergency Response training for dentists,

THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2016 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

NEW MEMBER PROFILES

Letham Development Limited (LDL) Letham Development Limited (LDL) is the independent trading arm of Letham Community Sports Club, a registered charity.

LETHAM DEVELOPMENT LIMITED (LDL) The Pavilion, Seven Acres, Newhouse Road, Perth PH1 2JB Tel: 01738564979 Email: enquiries@7acressportscentre.co.uk Web: www.7acressportscentre.co.uk Contact: Jon Kidd

Letham Development own and operate a state of the art 3G Artificial Grass Pitch. They hire out the pitch and associated facilities including changing rooms and meeting space to clubs, organisations and members of the public across the region. The facility which operates from 9am to 10pm seven days a week, benefits from being fully floodlit, is FIFA 2 Star rated, IRB Approved and can be hired in thirds (or multiples thereof ) or as a full size pitch.

It has a large purpose built car park with space for buses, level access to the pitch, ramp access to the pavilion, a small tuck shop and disabled toilets. Multi-purpose space is available for use on its own or in conjunction with the pitch for meetings, classroom sessions, birthday parties and host of other indoor activities.

All profits from the company are passed on to Letham Community Sports Club to support their charitable activities and as a result the rates offered are some of the most competitive in the region for a facility of the standard.

A wide variety of activities can be carried out on the pitch – football, rugby and lacrosse have all taken place on the pitch. The pitch can be booked online @ http://booking.lethamfc.com, by phoning 01738 564979 or emailing devmanager@7acressportscentre. co.uk.

Scoperta Limited

SCOPERTA LIMITED 10 Kilrymont Road, St Andrews, KY16 8DE Tel: 07938 480517 Email: info@scoperta.co.uk Web: www.scoperta.co.uk Contact: Angus Smith

Scoperta Limited is a one-stop, multi-discipline consultancy ser vice for charities, social enterprises and small businesses. Our clients have also included universities, local authorities and other public sector bodies. We specialise in Fundraising, Business Support and Communications and offer flexible, competitively priced, creative and innovative solutions to meet your consultancy needs.

noticed. This includes the design of your promotional material, internet and social media content in support of your campaigns. Our experience of the business world enables us to forge strong Corporate Partnerships and events sponsorship for you. We can also deliver and manage your fundraising events including the coordination of your Press and PR needs.

We offer Fundraising strategies that work carrying out research and developing suitable prospects. Using our extensive experience with Scottish and UK Trusts & Foundations, Lotteries and other funding sources we can write effective proposals and cases for support that will get your charity

If your business is lacking direction because you simply don’t have the time or the motivation to look for new markets, what your competitors are doing or what your strategic needs for growth are, our Business Support services may be what you need. We can take a fresh look at your business whilst

allowing you to focus on day-today operations. Our flexible range of options tailored to your needs range from carrying out market research and feasibility studies to more hands – on, short-term, Project Management or human resources support. We look forward to building new business relationships through Perthshire Chamber of Commerce.

AGB Small Contracts Limited AGB are an experienced building and civil engineering contractor based in Perth. Established over a decade ago, AGB has evolved and developed, gaining a reputation locally synonymous with our branding “Inspired Bespoke Construction”.

AGB SMALL CONTRACTS LIMITED Unit 10, Nether Friarton Ind Units, Friarton Road, Perth PH2 8DF Telephone: 01738 587610 Email: office@agb-developments.co.uk Web: www.agb-developments.co.uk Contact: Ros Orr

We take immense pride in our business and consider ourselves to be innovative and market leaders in our industry. We offer a full range of construction services employing a local team-based workforce working to our high standards. We specialise in bespoke projects which ensures that each and every house we craft is truly unique. Our customer focus is unrivalled, leaving every client with a home of

THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2016 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

which they can be extremely proud. From concept to completion, we work closely with our clients, architects and suppliers drawing on our experience to help come up with the optimum solutions. AGB are extremely proud to be living and working in the Perthshire area and we place a great deal of value in employing local people, using local sources in the marketplace and doing our bit in helping sustain our local economy. We invest in our workforce to encourage loyalty and stability, as well as offering apprenticeships to encourage young people to join the construction industry. Our workforce is supplemented by

our own bank of approved local subcontractors with whom we have a long working relationship history. We want people to know AGB means Inspired Bespoke Construction with the client at the heart of our business. We call this “The AGB Experience” – as our brochure says “We Inspire, Create and Deliver”.

NEW MEMBER PROFILES

Balhousie Care Group Balhousie Care Group (BCG) is the largest private provider of elderly care in central and north east Scotland.

BALHOUSIE CARE GROUP Earn House, Broxden Business Park Lamberkine Drive, Perth PH1 1RA Tel: 01738 254254 Email: enquiries@balhousiecare.co.uk Web: www.balhousiecare.co.uk Contact: Kirstene Feenan

Tony Banks founded the company in 1991 when he opened the doors to Lisden Care home in Kirrimuir. Since then, development and expansion has taken place and BCG now operate with 25 care homes providing nursing and residential care to over 900 residents. Types of care range from Alzheimer ’s and dementia, palliative care, services for those living with Huntington ’s disease, respite care and services for adults with disabilities.

The focus of the business is to provide high quality care to all residents with personalisation being at the centre of all activity. Care is tailored to the needs of each individual, assessing not only their care requirements but also their lifestyle choices, identifying the person’s likes, dislikes, needs and wants.

People really are at the heart of Balhousie Care Group.

Balhousie Care believe that providing a quality of life through activity is crucial to residents’ happiness, wellbeing and social engagement – regularly working with local community groups (schools, church groups, local businesses etc) to deliver intergenerational projects.

Forty-Four Bar & Late Lounge New member Forty-Four Bar & Late Lounge is located, unsurprisingly, at 44 Atholl Street and is just a short distance from a number of Perth’s leading restaurants and entertainment venues.

FORTY-FOUR BAR & LATE LOUNGE 44 Atholl Street, Perth PH1 5NN Tel: 01738 622201 Email: alan@perth-bars.co.uk Contact: Alan Cameron

Major refurbishment at the end of 2015 has transformed the Lounge, which is strictly for over 21s, into an ideal venue for couples and groups alike to enjoy drinks and cocktails in a sophisticated and contemporary atmosphere. They will be able to chat and socialise in the knowledge that they will indeed still be able to hear their friends over the music played. The late night license affords locals and visitors to Perth an excellent

late night venue for drinks and background music. Live music will also feature on a regular basis and the venue will also show large sporting events on the big screen. You can check FortyFour’s website and Facebook page for details of forthcoming events.

available. The team will be delighted to discuss your requirements in more detail and are committed to offer you and your guests great Forty-Four hospitality.

Their front bar is being refurbished from early 2016, but Forty-Four Late Lounge and Bar will be open for business during any refurbishment work being carried out. The venue is also available for private hire. With a capacity of 120, Forty-Four can cater for your special events with ease with catering services also being

THCL THCL provide building services for new build bespoke homes, small developments, restoration, re n o v a t i o n s , l a r g e r h o m e extensions and commercial projects across Perth and Kinross, Fife and throughout Scotland.

THCL – BUILDING AND RENOVATION Office Unit, Brunthill Farm, Kinross KY13 0LB Tel: 0845 555 1015 Email: malcolm.thomson@thcl.net Web: www.thomsonhomesconstruction.co.uk Contact: Malcolm Thomson

Offering a personal approach to each project, THCL work closely with clients and their architects to ensure that ideas become reality with customer satisfaction at the forefront. Being a member of the Guild of Master Craftsmen since 2013 is recognition of their commitment to work with skill and integrity. With experience in building timber kit, block build and Structural

Insulated Panel (SIPs), THCL have vast experience in all types of new builds and are very pro-active in using the most appropriate build method and materials to create the most energy-efficient homes. As the only Scottish delivery partner for Kingspan TEK® Structural Insulated Panel (SIPs) construction system, THCL offer SIPs build homes and cladding for the commercial sector. THCL have also worked on a number of large renovation and restoration projects bringing large traditional stone buildings up to date in a considerate and sensitive manner. They were also the main contractor for renovation of The

Craigellachie Hotel in Speyside. In 2015 THCL were awarded the accolade of “Scotland’s Favourite Main Contractor” in the Scottish Home Improvement Awards which is voted for by their clients. They were also shortlisted in the Scottish Home Awards in 2014 for one of their new build projects. As a builder or main contractor, THCL are one of the best in Perthshire with a long line of satisfied customers who are more than happy to recommend their work!

THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2016 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

Advertorial Advertorial

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Perth Perthgym gymis isfit fit for for business business When fitness coach, When fitness coach,Chris ChrisBrown, Brown,launched launchedClaymore ClaymoreCrossFit CrossFit(www.claymorecrossfit.co.uk) (www.claymorecrossfit.co.uk) he he had no idea that within that withina afew fewmonths monthshe hewould wouldhave have100 100regular regularmembers membersand andaaconstant constant stream stream of of enquiries enquiries from people looking to take their fitness to the next level. people looking to take their fitness to the next level. With help from With help fromBusiness BusinessGateway, Gateway,Chris Chrisopened openedPerth’s Perth’sfirst firstCrossFit CrossFitgym gymin inAugust August 2015, 2015, offering offering members the chance the chancetototake takepart partinina arange rangeofofhigh highintensity, intensity,functional functionalfitness fitnessprogrammes. programmes. “CrossFit is isa afantastic “CrossFit fantasticway waytotoget getfitfitand andthe thesessions sessionsare arescalable scalablefor forevery everylevel level of of participant,” participant,” said Chris. “We pride ourselves “We pride ourselvesinindeveloping developinga aclose closecommunity communityof ofpeople peoplethat thatshare sharean an interest interest in in CrossFit, CrossFit, with the motivation betweenparticipants participantshelping helpingtotocreate createaatruly trulyinteractive interactivehealth healthand andfitness fitness focused focused environment.” environment.” motivation between Although Chrishas hasa ahost hostofofhealth healthand andfitness fitnessqualifications qualificationsand andyears yearsof ofsports sports coaching coaching experience experience to call Although Chris on, he knew that he would benefit from some specialist business advice. on, he knew that he would benefit from some specialist business advice. “My Business Gatewayadviser adviserhas hasbeen beenaatremendous tremendoussupport supportand andhelped helpedme mefind findmy my way way through through the start-up “My Business Gateway maze. Not onlydid didhehework workwith withme meon onthe thebusiness businessplan planbut buthe healso alsohelped helpedto toidentify identify some some much much needed maze. Not only funding. Business Gateway’s free workshops were also really useful from both a skills development funding. Business Gateway’s free workshops were also really useful from both a skills development and networkingperspective.” perspective.” networking Now that thebusiness businessisisup upand andrunning runningChris Chrisisislooking lookingto tothe thefuture futureand andhopes hopes to to build build the the Perth Perth CrossFit CrossFit Now that the community further, with the potential for an outdoor facility and CrossFit Kids programme. community further, with the potential for an outdoor facility and CrossFit Kids programme. find outhow howBusiness BusinessGateway Gatewaycan canhelp helpyou, you, ToTo find out visit www.bgateway.com/perth-and-kinross visit www.bgateway.com/perth-and-kinross or call yourlocal localoffice officedirectly directlyon on01738 01738657 657215. 215. or call your Download our free business support app. Download our free business support app.

Started up in business and wondering what is next? Business Gateway has the support and expertise to help. From 1-1 adviser support through to free workshops to build your business skills, Business Gateway can help you take it further. So whatever your business or idea is, why not get in touch and see how our fully funded services can help you take that next step. So why not find out more? Call now on 01738 657215 or visit www.bgateway.com/perth-and-kinross

Business Advice • Networking • Events • Routes to Finance • HR • Sales & Marketing

EVENTS 2016 APRIL Tuesday 5th

Networking Breakfast

0730 – 0845

Starbucks

Perth

£10

Thursday 14th

Effective Social Media for your business Facebook

1730 – 2030

Perth College

Perth

£35

Tuesday 19th

Doing business in Scandanavia Workshop

1200 – 1345

Saltire House

Perth

Wednesday 20th

Networking at the Races

1200 – 1730

Perth Racecourse

Scone

£65

Wednesday 27th

Scottish Parliament Elections Hustings

1830 for 1900 – 2100

Birnam Arts

Birnam

Tuesday 3rd

Networking Breakfast

0730 – 0845

Crieff Visitor Centre

Crieff

£10

Thursday 26th

BlueSky Experience and Strathearn Distillery

1700 – 1900

BlueSky Experience

Methven

TBC

Wednesday 15th

Tri-Chamber Networking Breakfast

0800 – 1100

McDiarmid Park

Perth

£25

Thursday 16th

Cooking demonstration with Praveen from Tabla Indian Restaurant

1730 – 1930

Callum Walker Interiors

Perth

£50

Tuesday 5th

Networking Breakfast

0730 – 0845

AliBob @ Cairn O’Mohr

Errol

£10

Thursday 14th

Taster Session at George Campbell & Sons

Evening event

Whitefriars Crescent

Perth

£25

Friday 5th

Networking Breakfast

TBC

Perth Show

Perth

£10

Friday 26th

Golf Day

1200 Arrival 1330 Shotgun Start

Strathmore Golf Club

Alyth

Individual – £50 + VAT Team – £200 + VAT

Tuesday 6th

Networking Breakfast

0730 – 0845

Mercure Hotel

Perth

£10

Wednesday 28th

High tea and Enchanted Forest

Evening event

Fishers Hotel

Pitlochry

£13

Networking Breakfast

0730 – 0845

The Old Cross

Blairgowrie

£10

MAY

JUNE

JULY

AUGUST

SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER Tuesday 4th

NOVEMBER All month

Business Month

Friday 25th

Business Star Awards

Evening event

Crieff Hydro Hotel

Crieff

£65 + VAT

Networking Breakfast

0730 – 0845

Mercedes Benz

Perth

£10

DECEMBER Tuesday 6th

Did you know? We have a new, fully packed training schedule for this year? To see the full list of courses, please have a look at page 35 in this magazine. For bookings or further information about our events and training courses, please contact the Chamber office on 01738 448325 or email events@perthshirechamber.co.uk or refer to the website www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2016 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

LIFESTYLE

Fitness in the workforce Did you know that the average UK absence rate in 2011 was 4.2 days equating to a loss of almost 2% of working time. Multiply that by the number of employees in your company and you can see why looking after the health and wellbeing of your workforce can benefit the bottom line as well as your staff retention and productivity. By encouraging staff to be active you are assisting them in improving their physical and mental well-being. Regular exercise helps to prevent diseases, improves stamina, strengthens and tones, enhances flexibility, reduces stress, controls weight and improves quality of life.

So, what can you do as an employer to encourage a healthy lifestyle? Here are Live Active Leisure’s Top Five Tips proper breaks and lunch away from the  Encourage desk. If people feel they have time to hit the gym for

walking meetings, where small teams  Arrange take to the fresh air for a walk while they plan and

half an hour or pick up a lunchtime class they will use it. A culture of ‘working through’ doesn’t help anyone.

discuss. Use your phone to take verbal notes and you’re all set!



Join up to the Cycle to Work Scheme and assist your employees in paying for a new bike making savings of up to 25% when they do. See www.cyclescheme.co.uk for full details.

into a Corporate Membership for your local  Look gym which will offer your employees discounts and

an after work date at a Fitness Class instead  Make of the pub and go for a destressing workout together. Provided by Karen Taylor, Marketing Manager Email: KarenTaylor@liveactive.co.uk Tel: 01738 454647

extras as part of their employment benefits package.

For enquiries about membership, contact the Corporate Membership Administrator on 01738 454617 or leisure@liveactive.co.uk

THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2016 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS

he Chamber is an independent, voluntary, non-profit making, non-political 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 Benefits

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 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. 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. CHAMBER TRAINING COURSES Chamber members can take advantage of great rates through the Chamber’s exclusive training opportunities. 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. 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. DISCOUNT FUEL CARDS Members can benefit from a free, no-obligation discount fuel card from our exclusive fuel card partner, The Fuelcard People, providing savings of up to 5p per litre & up to 10p per litre at motorway pumps. The Fuelcard People offer a wide range of cards valid at 7000+ pumps nationwide, including BP, Shell, Esso, Texaco & Tesco forecourts, as well as the Diesel Direct (Keyfuels) & UK Fuels networks. The benefits of a fuel card from The Fuelcard People mean genuine savings.

How much is Chamber membership worth now? ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTIONS