InvestinPerth #3

SPRING/SUMMER 2016

INVESTIN

PERTH

INSIDE #3 SPOTLIGHT ON STAGECOACH INTERVIEW WITH SPECTRAGLASS SKILLS FOR BUSINESS

IN THIS ISSUE

WELCOME

SPRING/SUMMER 2016

VIEWPOINT:

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Vicki Unite, Chief Executive, Perthshire Chamber of Commerce

NEWS FROM THE REGION:

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Perthshire companies making a mark

FAST TRACK:

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New City Card seeks to direct online business to local companies

SPOTLIGHT:

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Stagecoach Group: innovation and international inspiration

FEATURE:

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Innovative businesses reveal routes to growth

INTERVIEW:

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Gordon Dow, Spectraglass

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KNOW-HOW:

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Sourcing talent – Perth College UHI: developing employees with the x-factor

PROPERTY:

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Investment opportunities

THE NUMBERS:

Welcome to the third issue of Invest in Perth. The diversity, inventiveness and ambition of the more than six thousand businesses based here in Perthshire continues to inspire. From long-established international leaders in their field – such as Stagecoach – to younger trailblazers, such as Merlin ERD, who have just won a second Queen’s Award for Exporting, businesses here continue to thrive and our theme in this issue is about lessons for business growth.

We see recent successes in retail, tourism and food and drink, with the recent award-winners from the Perth Chamber of Commerce’s STAR awards sharing lessons they’ve learned on the road to new and bigger markets.

Growth can also come through service extensions, such as Perth City Card, and moves on-line. Whatever route it takes, employees confident in new skills will make the most of the opportunity – and Perth College UHI can help deliver.

I am sure this issue will inspire you. www.pkbem.co.uk

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Regional statistics

Councillor John Kellas Convener of Enterprise and Infrastructure Committee at Perth & Kinross Council

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INVEST IN PERTH CAN HELP We offer a comprehensive investor support programme tailored to each individual business, including: • Help with identifying and accessing funding • A comprehensive search to find suitable land and property • Introductions to key contacts locally.

Follow Invest in Perth on Twitter. www.twitter.com/investinperth

Invest in Perth

Invest in Perth is published by Invest in Perth. Written and designed by Resolve Creative. e. info@resolve-creative.co.uk | w. resolve-creative.co.uk

THIS MAGAZINE IS PRINTED ON ENVIRONMENTALLY RESPONSIBLE PAPER MANUFACTURED USING 100% RECYCLED WASTE.

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FSC LOGO added here

Kirsty Easton, Pullar House, 35 Kinnoull Street, Perth, PH1 5GD t: 01738 475364 e: keaston@pkc.gov.uk w: investinperth.co.uk

PERTH WAS THE ONLY PLACE IN SCOTLAND WHERE MORE SHOPS HAD OPENED THAN CLOSED IN THE PAST YEAR.

Glenturret Distillery – home of The Famous Grouse – has released three single malt whiskies to celebrate its 240th anniversary.

LOCAL LINKS / INTERNATIONAL OPPORTUNITY

VIEWPOINT

GENERATING GROWTH

OUR REGIONAL AND NATIONAL ECONOMY NEEDS NEW IDEAS AND NEW ENTREPRENEURS TO GENERATE THE GROWTH THAT SUSTAINS OUR COMMUNITIES. IT ALSO DEPENDS ON ESTABLISHED COMPANIES WHO RECOGNISE THE VALUE OF INVESTMENT AND DEVELOPING THEIR BUSINESS. But on top of these ingredients, any venture – even in today’s digital marketplace – needs a strong and attractive base with good connectivity and access to a high-quality workforce.

Perth City and our wider regions offer that and more. Our geography and strong combination of urban and rural gives us a location that is among the best in Scotland and the UK. It provides the ideal springboard to the rest of Scotland and access to key trading hubs, while offering an enviable quality of life.

Our region also has great economic diversity, both in terms of the sectors we support and the scale of business enterprises based here. Large multinationals share postcodes with SMEs, micro-businesses, cottage industries and self-employed enterprises. It’s this diversity that helps create Perth’s unique and vibrant business profile, with a passionate, innovative, creative and resilient pool of businesses offering high quality products and services.

Major brands and international groups such as transport operator Stagecoach, energy giant SSE, the iconic Highland Spring, and leading insurer Aviva successfully operate globally while headquartered or having major bases in Perthshire.

The past year has highlighted the strong heritage of our regional business profile, and the continued growth and development of many of our small businesses: from the 10th birthday of our cultural hub at Perth Concert Hall, to Glenturret Distillery’s 240th anniversary; from the growing visitor numbers at attractions such as Pitlochry’s Enchanted Forest, to chocolatier Iain Burnett targeting the sale of one million chocolates in 2016. There were awards in our hotel sector, such as the luxury Fonab Castle, export expansion by Summer Harvest Oils; not forgetting the Perth City Gift Card,

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a joint marketing initiative adopted by many of our independent boutique outlets and retailers.

These success stories give our region real optimism, and not without reason.

Our enviable business start-up and survival rates continue to turn the spotlight on Perth’s potential. Indeed, one recent survey highlighted that Perth was the only place in Scotland where more shops had opened than closed in the past year. But we’re not complacent. Hard work and multi-agency co-operation are required to secure and sustain healthy business development and growth – and ongoing inward investment.

Our area enjoys one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country and Perthshire Chamber of Commerce is just one of the private and public sector organisations committed to safeguarding and developing the region’s economic future, stability and growth.One of our key objectives is understanding the needs of our economy in the years ahead. It’s about

identifying skills we will need in future and fostering the right links between education and business at all levels. Partnerships such as the Perth and Kinross Green Technology Business Accelerator Group and Career Ready show the benefits of that approach.

The newly formed Perth and Kinross Developing Our Young Workforce group will help co-ordinate and enhance the already strong local commitment to youth employment and positive destinations.

Perth College UHI is a key partner, working closely with the local education sector and the business community to offer continually relevant and practical learning and a proven route into work. At the same time, Perthshire boasts some of the toprated state and private schools.

The Invest in Perth initiative is our showcase, highlighting the massive benefits our region has to offer to both new and developing businesses. We are open for business and proud to be ambassadors for our city and region. Welcome to our home.

Vicki Unite Chief Executive Perthshire Chamber of Commerce

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THE AWARD RECOGNISES THE FINEST HOTELS, BY THOSE WHO REALLY MATTER – GUESTS THEMSELVES.

PERTHSHIRE’S BEST – SAY GUESTS An incredible 15.52 million trips were made by domestic and international visitors to Scotland in 2014. Many rated their experience on TripAdvisor – and the site’s annual awards therefore carry huge significance.

TripAdvisor highlight that 83 per cent of Briitsh holidaymakers say they are influenced by these awards when making a booking and The Fonab Castle Hotel in Pitlochry (pictured) had cause to celebrate in 2015, being named

four times by TripAdvisor; as the UK’s third best luxury hotel and 7th most romantic hotel; and as Europe’s 11th most luxurious hotel and 22nd overall for romance.

In April 2016, Andy Murray’s Cromlix Hotel, near Dunblane, was named Luxury Hotel of the Year at the 13th annual Scottish Hotel Awards. Other Perthshire hotels making their mark at the ceremony were The Old Mill, a converted corn mill in Pitlochry, crowned Scotland’s Inn of the Year for a second time;

the Craigatin House and Courtyard, also in Pitlochry, which scooped top prize among B&Bs and the Ballanthie House Hotel in Stanley, named the best Country Sports Hotel.

> INFO cromlix.com fonabcastlehotel.com theoldmillpitlochry.co.uk craigatin.co.uk ballathiehousehotel.com

SWEET TASTE OF SUCCESS JOINT MESSAGE OF WELCOME A group of key venues and events businesses based in Perthshire is to refocus the region’s efforts on the Meetings, Incentives, Conference and Events (MICE) market, with the relaunch of the Perthshire Business Tourism Group.

The move reflects a major investment in the market by a group which includes Perth Racecourse, Gleneagles, Blue Sky Events and Hilton Dunkeld.

VisitScotland and Perth and Kinross Council are backing the group, which is looking to draw in more venues, with more funding and marketing support, including a new website.

Catriona Anderson, who heads the Perthshire Business Tourism Group, said: “When a buyer is looking for a location for a trade event, it is hugely beneficial to showcase all the incredible businesses and opportunities Perthshire can offer under one site.”

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The initiative provides opportunities for smaller suppliers to be represented alongside internationally known names, and to develop relationships that can lead to further offers and collaborations. “That, in turn, gives the buyer the benefit of dealing with trusted institutions but also the local character and charm of the smaller names.”

Michaela Ruff, conference and event manager at Perth Concert Hall, said: “The Perthshire Business Tourism Group gives members easily affordable access to marketing opportunities on a large scale. It is a fantastic method of promoting the area to a wider audience – with a positive spin-off being that the businesses involved tend to develop a closer affiliation with each other.”

> INFO meetingsperthshire.co.uk

For Iain Burnett the Highland Chocolatier, 2015 was a bumper year. The firm – based at the Scottish Chocolate Centre at Grandtully – hand produced more than 800,000 chocolates – that’s more than 12,000 tonnes.

In 2016, as they mark their tenth anniversary, Julie Collier, commercial director, is forecasting they’ll produce more than a million.

Producing this volume of hand-crafted chocolates is a huge achievement and it has been done while maintaining the very highest quality. “We’ve received the ultimate recognition on an international scale and our chocolates are now marked as the finest in the world,” said Julie. Demand, particularly their specialist truffle range, has grown through their partnership with British Airways First cabins worldwide, helping build strong international demand. Their chocolates are now exported as far afield as Japan, India and the Middle East.

In 2015, Iain Burnett’s Velvet Truffles were recognised as The World’s Best Dark Chocolate Truffle, at the International Chocolate Awards. The firm also won two silvers awards and is now Scotland’s most awarded chocolatier, and one of the top three in the UK. “We’ve always used the very best ingredients,” added Julie, “including cream from a single herd of local cattle; Perthshire honey; Scottish butter and pairings with the finest Scotch whisky. This integrity and natural approach is important for our customers worldwide.”

> INFO highlandchocolatier.comm

Summer Harvest Oils recently began exporting its cold pressed rapeseed oil products to a high-end retailer in Dubai.

The deal – a major export success – sees the Perthshire-based company shipping rapeseed oil and dressings to Choithrams, which has 21 outlets in Dubai. It follows two other contracts to supply Alosra (one of the most quality-driven retailers in Bahrain) and Lulus, a trend-setting supermarket across the Gulf Region.

Mark Bush, founder, had travelled to Dubai in 2015, with support from Scotland Food and Drink and Scottish Development International. “Our oil has been selected against a wide variety of other cold pressed oils produced from all over the world,” said Mark.

Summer Harvest Oils was founded in 2008 and since then Mark has taken personal charge of growing, pressing, triple filtering and bottling products on his site at Ferneyfold Farm near Crieff. The oils have become a firm favourite in the kitchen of top chefs including Andrew Fairlie and Tom Kitchin, who both use the products in their Michelin-starred restaurants, as well as it

WWW.INVESTINPERTH.CO.UK

IT’S AN EXCITING TIME FOR OUR INDUSTRY; WE’RE STARTING TO SEE A MUCH WIDER RANGE OF SCOTTISH FOOD & DRINK PRODUCTS BEING EXPORTED.

Digital Scotland’s Superfast Broadband programme has connected 21,600 properties across Perth and Kinross.

SUMMER HARVEST OILS

NEWS

ENGINEERING SUCCESS

Perth-based drilling experts Merlin ERD have gained a second Queen’s Award for Enterprise, the UK’s highest accolade for International Trade results.

Directors, Iain and Debbie Hutchison (left) received their first Queen’s Award in October 2014, from Brigadier Melville Jameson, CBE. The Lord Lieutenant of Perth and Kinross, along with Liz Grant Provost of Perth and Kinross. This time, two members of the 38-strong Merlin ERD team will travel to London for a very special reception that will be hosted by Her Majesty at Buckingham Palace in July.

In the last three years, the firm has doubled its international turnover and entered new markets, including the Middle East and Brazil. It has now completed more than 190 projects in 34 countries, with more than 90% of its business coming through client recommendation or repeat orders.

Iain described winning the Queen’s Award for Enterprise a second time as a “truly exceptional achievement. It exemplifies our achievements as industry leaders in advanced drilling technologies on a global scale.”

> INFO merlinerd.com

rapeseed oil really coming into their own in international markets. Scottish rapeseed oil is already starting to make waves in the culinary world, with international chefs recognising the appeal of its taste and health credentials, and in the next few years we expect that it will become well established as a premium Scottish product.

“With our partners we have invested in a team of in-market Food & Drink specialists who can help open doors to new opportunities with premium retailers and foodservice operators. This can help ambitious companies, such as Summer Harvest, fully exploit the international potential of their fantastic products.”

> INFO summerharvestoils.co.uk

being the oil of choice on BBC’s The Great British Menu for five years in a row.

Susan Beattie, head of food and drink at Scottish Development International, said: “It’s an exciting time for our industry; we’re starting to see a much wider range of Scottish food & drink products being exported. Scotch whisky, salmon, seafood and red meat already have a strong international reputation, and we’re now seeing products such as craft beers and gins, dairy and bakery and now

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ANNIVERSARY VECTOR SET ON NEW DIRECTION CELEBRATION

Horsecross Arts, the creative organisation behind both Perth Concert Hall and Perth Theatre has put together two special days of community activities and concerts on Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 September. The reason: to celebrate a decade of adventurous programming, innovative join-in events and exciting activities at the popular venue.

Gwilym Gibbons, chief executive of Horsecross Arts, said: “Perth Concert Hall has shaken up the cultural map of Scotland. It has become the new go-to venue for a host of world-class artists from across all genres and gained a reputation for adventurous programming, innovative community events and imaginative activities. We have welcomed tens of thousands of conference delegates and picked up more than 30 awards.

“Perth Concert Hall has helped shine the spotlight on Perth as a great place to live, work, invest in and visit.”

In February, Vector Aerospace announced a new dynamic component repair (DCR) capability for the Airbus Helicopters AS350 Ecureuil family at its Almondbank site in Perth.

The firm – profiled in our second issue – is an independent provider of aviation maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services, with a long tradition supporting military aircraft.

This latest extension to its services sees it branching out into the lucrative world of private, commercial and celebrity-owned helicopters.

The new facility was opened by John Swinney MSP, Deputy First Minister for Scotland. It allows the company to repair and overhaul gearboxes and associated components for the full range of AS350 family variants. “This is an opportunity to work with a new, more global customer base,” said Michael Tyrrell, managing director. “We are now offering support to a fleet of more than 5,000 helicopters flying today.”

> INFO vectoraerospace.com

> INFO horsecross.co.uk

PERTHSHIRE’S MULTI-AWARD WINNING SOUND AND LIGHT SHOW, THE ENCHANTED FOREST, ATTRACTED MORE THAN 62,000 VISITORS TO THE HIGHLAND PERTHSHIRE AREA OVER A 32 NIGHT RUN IN 2015, A 33% INCREASE ON THE PREVIOUS YEAR.

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The event has been Scotland’s Best Cultural Event no less than three times in the last four years; was recently shortlisted as a finalist for Cultural Event of the Year at the UK Event Awards; and currently holds the VisitScotland National Thistle Award for Best Event.

Its impact on the local tourism economy in 2015 was estimated to be in the region of £2.75m, with more than 50% of all visitors choosing to stay overnight and 90% citing the event as their main reason for visiting the area.

Graham Brown, chairman of The Enchanted Forest Community Trust, which runs the annual attraction near Pitlochry,

said: “This is a tremendous success for Highland Perthshire tourism businesses and we are deeply encouraged by the continued support of our visitors, many of whom return year after year. It is a testimony to the hard work put in by the community that our visitors number continue to grow.”

Despite extending its run to accommodate increased demand, the 2015 event sold out in advance and 4000 people who were not lucky enough to get tickets immediately signed up to an advance notice list to purchase tickets for 2016.

> INFO enchantedforest.org.uk

FAST TRACK

FAST-TRACK:

The Enchanted Forest won the Tourism and Hospitality Award at the Scottish Rural Awards, in April.

ENCOURAGING LOCAL SPEND

A NEW GIFT CARD, BELIEVED TO BE THE FIRST OF ITS KIND IN SCOTLAND, HAS BEEN MAKING A HUGE DIFFERENCE TO LOCAL RETAILERS SINCE ITS LAUNCH IN PERTH, LAST NOVEMBER. The Perth Card programme allows users to spend pre-paid money at some of the best-loved local retail and hospitality businesses, with cards worth thousands of pounds already in circulation.

The innovative scheme helped retain spend locally during both the pre-Christmas period and January sales. It works like any other gift card but gives users the flexibility of spending in various different shops and restaurants, when it suits them.

Perth has, proportionately, more independent retailers than any other city in Scotland and leading Perth names to sign up include Tabla, Santé, Blend Coffee Lounge, Provender Brown, Eva Lucia and venues such as Scone Palace and Perth Concert Hall.

“The Perth Gift Card was an instant must for Exel Wines to get involved in,” says general manager, Russell Wallace.

“The basic concept just seemed so innovative yet simple and ultimately useful for customers as a whole. We are really excited to see this project expand and be a boost to independent businesses in Perth.”

Locally-based digital marketing firm Miconex launched the card, in partnership with Perth & Kinross Council and Scandinavian firm Presend. Similar projects in Scandinavia have generated as much as £500,000 to the local economy. Already Miconex is hoping to roll-out similar card programmes across the UK.

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THE BASIC CONCEPT JUST SEEMED SO INNOVATIVE YET SIMPLE AND ULTIMATELY USEFUL FOR CUSTOMERS AS A WHOLE. “Instead of being limited to one retail outlet this card can be used in various unconnected shops throughout the city,” says Colin Munro, chief executive of Miconex. “It can also be used for more than just shopping. There are award winning restaurants and cafes, hotels and some great options to pamper yourself in one of our specialist retailers or jewellers.

“The card could cover an entire day out, with everything from a haircut, some shopping, a nice meal and a show all available.

“We expect them to be very popular for a whole range of gifting options, including corporate gift schemes.”

The cards can be purchased online or in person at four specific businesses in the city; and plans are underway for a kiosk to be introduced that will enable cards to be purchased on a self-service basis.

Perth & Kinross Council’s City Development Team helped fund some of the initial costs, and much of the initial marketing expenditure.

David Littlejohn, head of planning & development, believes the investment has already been a huge benefit to the local economy.

“I’m really pleased to hear of the initial impact. The Perth Card has really helped to promote a ‘shop local’ ethos.

“We know that Perthshire people are proud of their region and keen to do whatever they can to keep the money in the local economy, and this project has allowed them to do this.

“We believe the renowned quality of the 50+ businesses involved makes it an extremely compelling choice and it highlights a friendly, collaborative approach to business – an environment which will help attract more businesses to the city.”

> INFO

theperthcard.co.uk

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THE STAGECOACH BRAND HAS BEEN BUILT AROUND A SINGLE WORD: INNOVATION. TODAY THE PERTHBASED INTERNATIONAL PUBLIC TRANSPORT PROVIDER EMPLOYS MORE THAN 39,000 PEOPLE, IN THE UK, EUROPE AND NORTH AMERICA. STEVEN STEWART, DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS FOR STAGECOACH GROUP, TELLS US WHY PERTH HAS BEEN THE IDEAL BASE FOR THE INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS. “From our launch in this city more than 35 years ago, Perth has been our international HQ and our Scottish origins have always been viewed very positively,” explains Steven. “Scotland is seen as having many attractions – and that’s not just about our incredible geography. It’s down to our expertise, our highly skilled workforce, and also our ability to connect quickly to overseas markets, using the excellent direct air links to Europe and North America.”

There is no doubt that Stagecoach operates on a massive scale: “Each day, we run more than 13,000 buses, coaches, trams and trains across our markets. We work very hard to match customers’ ever increasing expectations. Patterns of work and how people live their lives are changing, so we’ve got to reflect that in the service we provide.”

In the past year, the Group has seen the number of passengers in Europe using its growing megabus.com low-cost coach network go up more than 250%. In the United States, where megabus.com is now marking its tenth year of operation, it has reversed a nationwide long-term decline in inter-city bus travel. It is now a growing market that is appealing to young, savvy travelers who can stay connected through free wi-fi while on the move.

Affordable, sustainable public transport is undoubtedly key to local communities and economies. As well as connecting people with health and education, high quality local transport can help rejuvenate local high streets and serve visitors to towns and cities.

“Several independent surveys have shown that Stagecoach offers the lowest bus fares in the UK. In Perth, we provide access to

unlimited weekly travel across the city for just £10 a week. That’s vital in getting people to work and helping connect local businesses with customers,” adds Steven.

“We research how travel patterns are changing. That’s one reason why we focus on networks more broadly, rather than just individual routes.” The direction of travel is for smarter travel solutions and digitisation: “customer service today is built on digital connectivity and making life easier. We recently launched a new mobile-enabled website – part of an £11m investment in new digital tools for passengers. Customers now have a unique journey planner with real-time information and smart ticketing. That gives us a strong platform to integrate our services with other modes of transport.”

As well as being the base for the Group’s core senior executive team, Stagecoach’s HQ incorporates IT, corporate finance, pensions, training and development, communications, and the insurance arm of the business. Perth has also been the test bed for many of the company’s innovations and R&D. “Sustainability is core to our business and we’ve got a strong history of partnerships with other organisations that share our values.

We work closely with Alexander Dennis who have a key production facility at Falkirk and are world leaders in hybrid electric buses. In fact, we’re the biggest investor in buses with this technology in the UK,” explains Steven.

INNOVATION

IS THE ROUTE TO SUCCESS Hybrid buses are fitted with regenerative braking technology, which is well-suited to stop-start urban routes and captures energy that would otherwise be lost. Stagecoach is also the UK’s biggest end user of bio-diesel and works with Scotland-based Argent Energy, which manufactures 100% sustainable biofuel from recycled cooking oil.

“We invest heavily in initiatives to make our businesses greener. We achieved a 30% reduction in our carbon impact in five years.

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EACH DAY, WE RUN MORE THAN

of Virgin Azuma trains from 2018 that will revolutionise travel for customers, offer more seats and services, and cut the journey time from Edinburgh to London to just four hours.”

Stagecoach is one of the UK’s biggest rail operators. It also partners with Virgin to run inter-city trains on the West Coast mainline.

In addition, Stagecoach runs the major South West Trains franchise, which carries 230 million passengers a year, and East Midlands Trains, where it won an extended contract.

From day one technology and people have been two of the biggest priorities for the Group. “There is a good skills base here,” says Steven. “Perth offers a great quality of life and an outstanding work-life balance. The continuity of retaining high quality, experienced and skilled people is a major benefit. That’s particularly true in a tough economy, as recruitment costs time and money.”

So does the service represent the future face of customer-focused public transport?

“We compete directly with the private car, so we need to deliver a high-quality, affordable, convenient and reliable alternative. Above all, we need to earn and retain the trust of our customers. We take that challenge very seriously.”

Express City Connect, operated across central Scotland by Stagecoach, was named Express Operation of the Year 2016.

Bringing on new talent is another focus.

“We have one of the biggest commitments to vocational training of any major public transport group in UK,” says Steven. “Our graduate entrants all spend time in our operations, to ensure everyone is focused on practical factors that affect our customers’ experience.”

Stagecoach is a key supporter of the national Career Ready programme. The initiative offers mentoring, workplace visits, paid internships and masterclasses on topics such as networking and handling job interviews. “Today’s students are tomorrow’s employees, so it’s vital we all do what we can to help prepare our young women and men for the world of work. We also enjoy close links with Perth College UHI and local schools, offering work experience and placements.”

The global economy remains challenging in 2016. “That’s an even bigger reason to strive to improve our service to customers,” stresses Steven. “Our bus and rail businesses have some of the best customer satisfaction ratings in the country, but you can’t afford to be complacent.”

Expectations of public transport are changing, and the Group’s ethos is perhaps best epitomised by Stagecoach Gold. It’s a product that is delivered using a fleet of high-spec buses operating on specific routes across the UK. The brand offers leather seats, extra legroom, free wi-fi and customer service guarantees.

SPOTLIGHT

13,000

BUSES, COACHES, TRAMS AND TRAINS ACROSS OUR MARKETS

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But we are constantly looking at ways to make further improvements, such as rolling out the use of fuel with at least 30% bio content across our UK operations.”

Environmental management systems, eco-driving programmes, and measures to reduce water consumption and boost recycling are also part of Stagecoach Group’s sustainability strategy. “Perthshire as a whole has a growing renewables and low-carbon sector expertise,” adds Steven. “Many local companies work collaboratively, together with organisations such as Perth College UHI, as part of a green technology business accelerator here in Perth and Kinross.”

Stagecoach is involved in a partnership with SSE – the energy giant with an HQ in Perth – on a European-funded project in Aberdeenshire to operate a fleet of buses powered by hydrogen. “Innovation is always at the forefront of our minds,” says Steven.

“We are open to big transformative projects that can help develop public transport and support local economies.”

Reinvesting profits in services and customer improvements is core to the Stagecoach philosophy. For many years, the Group has been spending more than £80m a year on new greener, more accessible buses for its UK operations. The company and it partner Virgin will also deliver £140m of improvements to transform the customer experience on the East Coast rail franchise. “There will be an entire new fleet

Steven Stewart Director Communications stagecoach.com

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IDEAS THAT INSPIRE

CONNECTIONS:

INVEST IN PERTH_SPRING/SUMMER 2016

1.98M

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PERTH’S RETAIL CATCHMENT WITHIN 60 MINUTES DRIVE

STAND A MOMENT ON ANY STREET CORNER IN PERTH AND YOU SEE EVIDENCE THAT THIS IS A GREAT PLACE TO BUILD A GROWING BUSINESS.

This area’s outstanding connectivity appeals to multiple international companies – such as Aviva and SSE – and supports thriving exports in sectors as diverse as food and drink, renewables and clean technology.

With more than half of Scotland’s population reachable within 60 minutes by road, Perth’s potential retail catchment population is 1.98 million, and 338,000 people live within a 30-minute drive time of the city centre.

International connections are also excellent, through Perth Harbour, Grangemouth port and both Glasgow and Edinburgh international airports, which each offer direct flights to more than 100 destinations. Hardly surprising then that the average turnover of the region’s 6,255 businesses is a third more than that of the average Scottish local authority business base.

This area is full of thriving and evolving businesses of all sizes that embrace new market drivers, such as digital connectivity and sustainability, to help them grow. (Almost 100 per cent of business premises in Perth have access to super-fast broadband).

100+ INDIVIDUAL DESTINATIONS WITH DIRECT FLIGHTS FROM EDINBURGH OR GLASGOW AIRPORTS

Lori Smith Owner of Eva Lucia Boutique

FEATURE

MOVING ON-LINE Eva Lucia Boutique, established in Perth in 2009 by Lori Smith, is one such. Its online retail growth secured the business a STAR Award from Perth Chamber of Commerce in November 2015. “We offer a selection of clothing and footwear that offers a point of difference from anything else our customers might find on the High Street,” says Lori.

Although her background was in finance, Lori has proved to have an expert eye for fashion. “We host a collection of everyday pieces, as well as a selection of unique dresses for any special night out, wedding, prom or party. We buy direct from manufacturers, and strive to introduce new fashion on a weekly basis.”

“Working with a grant from Perth & Kinross Council we developed our website last year. We found that by focusing on our file descriptors we were riding high on specific searches, where people wanted items that had sold out elsewhere.”

The move online helped the business connect with customers, improving retention. “We offer incentives for repeat purchases. Previous customers get advance notice of events in-store and can click and collect orders, ensuring they get the item they want.” That is proving very popular.

“There’s a good business network here and I attend Perth Connect meetings regularly. I’ve found there are always other businesses to learn from and share opportunities with. For example, we had a successful stand at last year’s Perth Races Ladies’ Day. “Moving online in a planned manner has really helped us build stronger relationships with our customers. We also get closer to our local community. That strategy has worked for us. We use Instagram, Facebook and Twitter to broaden our reach, and the visuals on Instagram and Facebook drive sales.

“We hit our first year targets and online sales are now growing month by month. You need to trial things, do research and then ramp up. For example, we’re involved in the Perth City Card and it will be interesting to see how we can integrate that.”

65% of businesses launched in Perthshire in 2009 were still trading in 2012 (ONS).

I’VE FOUND THERE ARE ALWAYS OTHER BUSINESSES TO LEARN FROM AND SHARE OPPORTUNITIES WITH.”

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£300M ANNUAL TURNOVER FROM FOOD & DRINK IN PERTHSHIRE

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WE ARE PASSIONATE ABOUT THE FARMING TECHNIQUES WE USE AND INCORPORATE AS MUCH LOCAL PRODUCE AS POSSIBLE.” TASTE FOR INNOVATION Within the city region, annual turnover by the food and drink sector is estimated at just under £300m. Another awardwinning business is also passionate about promoting that strength.

Loch Leven’s Larder is a family-run farm, restaurant, deli and retail shop set against the panoramic backdrop of Loch Leven. Here, Emma Niven focuses on the freshest local and seasonal produce. This, together with a contemporary Scottish, Scandinavian and European influenced gift shop, a well-stocked deli and a nature trail teaming with wildlife, really does make the Larder a unique visitor experience; securing the business a national win in the Scottish Thistle Awards.

“We provide quality service, seasonal produce, freshly-baked goods from our own kitchen, a range of ‘own-label’ products and other stylish gifts. We are passionate about the farming techniques we use and incorporate as much local produce as possible into our menus, believing in the traceability, provenance and seasonality of our offer.”

GUESTS HAVE GROWN FROM 24,000 TO JUST UNDER 40,000 IN FOUR YEARS.”

Over the last 10 years, Action Glen has continually evolved. Its newest activity reflects an investment of more than £170,000. Aloft! offers a choice of three tree-top courses, at varying heights, each with its own obstacles, zip lines and tightropes.

“Safety is our number one priority, so we invested in a safe clipping system from Germany, which is currently unique to us in Scotland. It removes all possibility of human error causing a fall out, and allows children aged seven and up to experience the aerial adventure. Guests have been particularly positive about that,” adds Ross.

FEATURE

ADVENTURE TOURISM An even more established tourism business is Crieff Hydro Hotel, set in 900 acres of land. That asset is home to Action Glen, which offers more than 30 adrenaline-fuelled activities.

Winner of the 2015 STAR Tourism award, Action Glen is expanding. “We have grown leaps and bounds, both as an adventure centre and as part of the hotel,” explains Ross McMillan, Action Glen’s manager.

“Guests have grown from 24,000 to just under 40,000 in four years. This in turn has led to an increase in turnover, an increase in staff members and the development of our activities, including being one of the first places in Scotland to introduce Segways.

However, as we are open to residents and non-residents, we rebranded as Action Glen.”

Recent innovations include a 230m zip line, which allows adventurers to travel face first at up 40 miles an hour – the first in Scotland – and a series of outdoor Google tours that give customers a virtual tour of its activities.

Action Glen is also Scotland’s largest teambuilding centre and offers a choice of facilitated corporate teambuilding events, capable of offering an unparalleled range of options for up to 500 people.

Revenue from tourism is worth in excess of £400m annually to the local economy.

SUSTAINABLE GROWTH The unique quality of Perthshire’s natural environment has inspired two other award-winning businesses.

In the decade since Comrie Crofts launched its initial bunkhouse business, based close to Crieff, it has turned its surrounding environment into a core asset.

“The site accommodates 74 people and weddings have become a hugely important part of our business,” says Andrew Donaldson. “The barn can host 200 for receptions and we work with other local suppliers to offer everything a couple needs to tailor their day.”

The business has expanded and diversified, but has always had a careful eye on being in balance with its environment, an ethos that led to it winning the Sustainability award in Perth Chamber of Commerce’s 2015 STAR Awards.

“We provide traditional Nordic tents, which offer the ultimate wild camping experience without the hardship. The Katas are set in open birch woodland and come with all the essentials required, furnished with sheepskins, cushions, oil lamps and solar powered lighting.

Hot showers are on-site but the Katas are very popular year-round, as they include wood-burning stoves.

OVER THE PAST DECADE WE’VE GROWN BY STAYING TRUE TO OUR SUSTAINABLE VISION.”

With expansion of the Crieff Hydro family last year, Action Glen has also expanded.

The Isles of Glencoe Hotel launched its own Action Glen in April 2015, and Peebles Hydro will also launch an Action Glen offer later in 2016.

“With the aim of bringing adventure alive for youngsters during the school holidays, we have also launched our very own adventure academy this year, in Crieff, aimed at locals and guests aged between seven and 13.”

A willingness to explore new routes to market, and a clear vision, are clearly paying dividends for Perthshire businesses of all sizes.

90%

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THE BUSINESS RECYCLES ALMOST ALL THE MATERIALS LEFT ON-SITE BY GUESTS

“From day one we have been a bit obsessive about reusing and recycling,” adds Andrew. “We take great care to minimise any impact on the environment: the lower shower block lighting runs from wind and solar power, while the upper block is completely off-grid and has compost toilets.”

It’s an ethos that has gone down well with visitors. “We even offer a 10% sustainable travel discount if our guests get here by bus, bike or on foot!”

The site recycles more than 90% of materials used by visitors and last year invested in a biomass heating system. As well as the Katas, bunkhouse and pitches for traditional tents, the business also operates 16km of mountain bike trails, open to residents and non-residents.

“Our bike shop is very busy, offering hires, tours and repairs and we’re just about to open a new ‘100 mile shop’ as well.” This will offer food produced within 100 miles of Comrie Croft, including some grown on its own field by a local market gardener.

> INFO evaluciaboutique.co.uk lochlevenslarder.com comriecroft.com actionglen.com

SPRING/SUMMER 2016_INVEST IN PERTH

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FOUNDER AND CHAIRMAN OF SPECTRAGLASS

GORDON DOW

INTERVIEW

WE PRODUCED THE BBC MASTERMIND TROPHY FOR FIFTEEN YEARS. BUT, PROBABLY THE PRODUCT THAT GETS THE BIGGEST REACTION IS THE OLYMPIC LAMP.” Q: W HEN WAS SPECTRAGLASS FORMED? A: I set up the business in 1983 and it is still a family-owned enterprise. I had been working in the industry and knew customers in the US, Canada and Mexico, so we had a customer base from day one. Today we supply glass to customers in 79 countries, supporting everything from scientific research to heavy industry.

GLASS IS A SUPREMELY USEFUL PRODUCT, BUT TO A LAYMAN THE FULL EXTENT OF ITS BENEFITS MAY NOT BE IMMEDIATELY TRANSPARENT. PERTH-BASED SPECTRAGLASS HAS BEEN DELIVERING INNOVATIVE APPLICATIONS FOR MORE THAN 30 YEARS, AS GORDON DOW EXPLAINS. 14

INVEST IN PERTH_SPRING/SUMMER 2016

Q: W HAT DOES SPECTRAGLASS PRODUCE? A: Glass is an incredibly versatile product and its qualities make it suitable for a vast range of applications. We buy in tubular or sheet glass and process it for multiple products in three key markets; instruments, industry and architectural.

Glass has many qualities and we can manage to deliver a specific benefit that reflects the qualities essential for the customer’s application. It might be an ability to show true colour, or resistance to chemical corrosion or high temperatures. Resistance to thermal shock is another attribute, as is UV protection, light transmission efficiency (for monitors or instruments) or the ability to absorb x-ray radiation. Glass can also be used to diffuse light, as a method of fire protection,

or as a shatterproof safety panel. It can be mirrored, coloured for navigation signals or manufactured to resist extreme pressure underwater. We can provide a product to match any of those requirements.

Q: SO HOW DOES THE COMPANY ADD THAT VALUE? A: We cut, grind, toughen and finish products to meet the high quality standards required by our customers. We employ about 40 staff and are essentially partners for the manufacturers – companies like Pilkington, Schott or Thorn, which is part of the Zumtobel Group.

Architectural applications are a rapidly growing market, and in that arena we work with the glass required for solutions specified by architects, developers or engineers – everything from decking to doors. My son, Sandy, is our development director and he constantly works with key clients to build innovation in the business.

Q: WHY WAS THE BUSINESS ESTABLISHED IN PERTH? A: Historically, Perth was a centre for the railway industry and this was a service and

Initially, however, we set up here as this was my family home and the area offers a great quality of life. We were also able to start with a core staff of skilled people, some of whom are still with us today.

Over the years we’ve been given great support by the Council, MPs and Scottish Enterprise, which has helped us expand.

Today, more than 60% of our production goes for export.

Q: WHAT IS THE MOST UNUSUAL PRODUCT YOU’VE PRODUCED? A: We produce so many bespoke items, especially for exhibitions and special events.

We produced the BBC Mastermind trophy for fifteen years. But, probably the product that gets the biggest reaction is the Olympic lamp (below). It crosses the world every four years, transported on commercial flights, but it’s illegal for a naked flame to be carried on an aircraft. So, we produce the glass that encloses the flame and enables it to keep burning as it goes on its journey!

WWW.INVESTINPERTH.CO.UK

£1M

NEW FACTORY EXTENSION WILL HELP MANAGE EXPANSION EFFICIENTLY

Grangemouth port – just 40 miles from Perth city centre – handles more than 30% of Scotland’s total exports.

Q: H OW IS THE BUSINESS EVOLVING? A: We have more than 20 standard products across our three core sectors of instruments, industrial and architectural.

Our turnover is around £2.5m annually and we have just opened a £1m extension to our factory here in Perth, to help us with the expanding order book. It has given us space to reorganise our factory set up, to become more efficient.

repair hub for many years. The local glass industry evolved, in part, to service a demand for gauges and other dials. At one time six companies were based here. Today, we’re the only company of our kind in Scotland and we have only one competitor in the UK. HAS YOUR LOCATION BEEN A BENEFIT? A: Our customers are international and the annual trade show for the industry is in Dusseldorf, so Perth’s national and international connectivity are great assets.

We have one customer in Glasgow, which produces lighting for the oil industry, and we deliver directly to them, by road, in under an hour. We import mica from India, via the port at Grangemouth, which also supports the delivery of much of our raw materials.

We import much of our initial tubular glass from China, and we have a partnership with the University of Beijing’s Building Sciences Department. They have a small furnace that produces Aluminosilicate, a glass that is resistant to thermal shocks, which is also useful in high temperature environments where normal glass would quickly corrode.

We have a monthly shipment from them.

INTERVIEW

Q: H OW IS THE BUSINESS STRUCTURED? A: We have agents in the Far East; in Japan, Korea, Singapore and Malaysia; an agent in Vienna and one in West Texas. We also work with distributors in the Egypt and the Persian basin, one in Alberta and another in Odessa, in the US, and a third in St Louis/Kansas City.

However, much of our business is supplying other businesses, for example we provided the glass used for the lighting at Terminal 5, and will be providing the glass to be used on the pedestrian footway lighting on the new Forth Crossing.

Q: W HAT IS ON THE HORIZON? A: Architectural products are a key growth area. Another developing market is the growing popularity of wood-burning stoves in the UK. The doors use a transparent ceramic as the ‘glass’, which will ultimately crack due to the temperatures involved.

We’re looking at setting up a regular product line that supplies replacements, sold direct to the public. That will be a first for us.

But every day brings a fresh challenge.

Recently, we’ve been exploring the option of using lasers available at the universities in St Andrews or Dundee for some applications.

And we’re proud to be the manufacturers’ go-to supplier whenever they get new opportunities. It’s a global market, so there’s always some innovation to respond to!

> INFO

spectraglass.com

SPRING/SUMMER 2016_INVEST IN PERTH

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SOURCING THE RIGHT TALENT IS A KEY CONSIDERATION FOR BUSINESSES IN EVERY SECTOR.

KNOW-HOW:

Perth College UHI is the largest campus of Scotland’s newest university, the University of the Highlands & Islands.

Offering courses from access level through to PhDs, it has been proactive in developing its curriculum to reflect the needs of local business for many years.

That strength was highlighted in a recent report by inspectors for the Scottish Funding Council, which praised College staff for their use of “intelligence about emerging trends in the labour market and key government initiatives… to support college development across the curriculum.”

Dr David Gourley leads the College’s employer engagement strategy, and its implementation. “We passionately believe that employer engagement should be central in informing curriculum design.”

One practical example is evident in a recent programme with SSE, the Perth-based energy giant. The College worked with SSE to develop specific apprenticeships in Power Distribution.

“Over two years, we provide 15 weeks of face-to-face delivery of theoretical knowledge and basic practical skills.

SSE then deliver more advanced and vocationally-specific practical training and assessment – in fitting, jointing and line work – in their own training centre, and on the job.

“The College provides quality-approved central support and internal verification for this part of the training,” adds Dr Gourley.

“SSE and Perth College UHI have built a close working relationship in order to deliver this training, which teaches the skills required to do the jobs that are in demand,” he explains. “There is a growing role for partnerships such as this in the new knowledge economy, where workforce development and effective skills utilisation are essential.”

Another example is with Perth-based Balhousie Care Group, which operates 23 Care Homes across Perthshire, Tayside and Angus. “The College created a strategic

DEVELOPING THE X-FACTOR

16

INVEST IN PERTH_SPRING/SUMMER 2016

Business Accelerator (PKGTBA). This highly successful business network focuses on biomass, micro-hydro, heat pumps and eco innovation in the food and drink sector, construction, transport and waste management.

Employing a recent graduate from Perth College as an intern, and with support from the College, Stagecoach and Perth and Kinross Council, the partnership quickly achieved results. After a year of operation, PKGTBA has more than 200 members and delivered a range of industry showcases and information seminars – including a series of events on biomass in small woodlands, the application of biomass boilers, and representation at the All-Energy conferences in 2014 and 2015.

“PKGTBA is an example of a college working in close partnership with councils and local business to gauge current demand and future innovations, seek out new opportunities for employment and enhance the local, regional and national economy,” explains Dr Gourley. “It has contributed to a four fold increase in engineering apprentices by raising the profile of these qualifications to relevant local businesses.

“The future will see an expansion of this partnership, which can only help with finding more employment opportunities and training requirements,” adds Dr Gourley.

The campus at Perth College UHI also hosts The Business Link, which offers practical support and tailored business solutions to help businesses become established and grow across a range of sectors. “We make a positive impact on

PKGTBA MEMBERS WORKING TOGETHER

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performance and profit. Our Centre for Enterprise is developing into an information conduit for entrepreneurial activity in the region and a natural centre of expertise.

“Our curriculum staff work in a variety of ways to enhance programme design and delivery with local employers.” Examples include the specialist courses in Audio Engineering, to support Scotland’s growing creative industries sector.

“Audio engineering is an exciting and expanding area of the creative industries and can provide careers in music production, live events, TV and radio broadcasting, advertising, video games and movies,” explains Dr Gourley.

“We are the largest and oldest provider in Scotland and offer a range of courses designed to meet employers’ needs. We offer fantastic resources, built up over more than two decades, and run courses from access level to a BSc (Hons) in Audio Engineering.”

Recent student success includes a group who worked on ‘Iron Man 3’, who delivered a research paper at the prestigious Audio Engineering Society Conference in New York, in 2015.

Students and employers like the sound of that!

KNOW-HOW

200

ADOPTING A STUDENTCENTRED APPROACH TO THE DELIVERY OF WORK-BASED CARE QUALIFICATIONS HAS MET WITH APPROVAL FROM ALL STAKEHOLDERS.”

Perth’s workforce has the joint highest percentage of graduates of all Scottish cities – 61.5 per cent.

alliance to provide a mutually beneficial bespoke training solution for this employer.

“Adopting a student-centred approach to the delivery of work-based care qualifications has met with approval from all stakeholders. Decisions related to student progress, behaviour and attainment are taken jointly at regular scheduled meetings. This results in agreed targets and outcomes,” adds Dr Gourley.

“Recognition of the demands placed on both organisations has produced a style of partnership that has provided development opportunities for all involved.”

The SFC Report also commended the purposeful links and “shared vision and direction” the College has with Perth and Kinross Council. These strategic partnerships result in a broad range of programmes that provide useful skills for learning, life and work. National programmes provide stimulus for specific curricular developments, such as Developing the Young Workforce, which is a government strategy to reduce youth unemployment by 40% by 2021, using a range of measures.

“At College level this includes increasing the number of students doing Modern Apprenticeships through business sponsorship,” explains Dr Gourley.

One award-winning engagement stemmed from the launch, in 2013, of The Perth & Kinross Green Technology

> INFO

perth.uhi.ac.uk

SPRING/SUMMER 2016_INVEST IN PERTH

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PROPERTY:

SITES ON OFFER AT STRATEGIC LOCATION

PERTH IS ENJOYING A FLURRY OF COMMERCIAL ACTIVITY AT PRESENT, WITH GRADE A OFFICE SPACE SUCCESSFULLY LET AT BROXDEN BUSINESS PARK, TO THE WEST OF THE CITY, AND SIGNIFICANT COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT LAND BROUGHT TO MARKET ADJACENT TO THE BROXDEN ROUNDABOUT. A GREEN LIGHT HAS ALSO BEEN GIVEN TO START WORK ON THE £30M MILL QUARTER PROJECT IN THE CITY CENTRE.

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INVEST IN PERTH_SPRING/SUMMER 2016

COMMERCIAL OFFICE SPACE PERTH £13.00

AVERAGE PER SQ FT PER ANNUM

EDINBURGH £25.64

AVERAGE PER SQ FT PER ANNUM

Leisure operator Greene King has secured planning consent for a new restaurant and coffee drive-through development at Broxden Business Park. That news reflects the prominence of this prime location, at the heart of Scotland’s trunk road network.

Two areas of commercial development land are also offered adjacent to the Broxden Roundabout, via Bidwells. Phase 1 extends along the eastbound M90, from the Roundabout to the Broxden Park and Ride site. Phase 2 is to the east of the Park and Ride, with both sites to be linked by

THE SITES PROVIDE THE OPPORTUNITY FOR DEVELOPERS TO CREATE NEW OFFICE SPACE WITHIN AN ESTABLISHED COMMERCIAL AREA THAT IS STRATEGICALLY LOCATED.”

Perth is one of Scotland’s fastest growing cities, with population growth of 24 per cent forecast by 2030.

2 SITES

LINKED BY A NEW ACCESS ROAD

a new access road. “The sites provide the opportunity for developers to create new office space within an established, strategically-located, commercial area,” said Graeme Duncan, head of commercial at Bidwells, the appointed commercial agents. “There is limited supply of modern office space in Perth at present, following the recent take-up of Grade A offices at Broxden. The western periphery of the city offers an ideal location for investment and development and we are entering an exciting era for this area.”

The development sites are adjacent to the existing commercial development at Broxden, where the new tenants are the international infrastructure and business services group, Mouchel, which last year was jointly awarded (with Atkins) the final

£40m design contract for the Scottish Government A9 dualling programme.

They have taken 3,500 sq ft.

The second office, which extends to 7,500 sq ft, was let to Persimmon Homes.

It has recently announced major growth plans and this new Perth base will be its headquarters for the north of Scotland.

To the north of these sites, office suites have also been let at Broxden House on Lamberkine Drive. Bidwells has also announced that the unique first floor office space at Merlin House, on nearby Necessity Brae, is now let on behalf of the owner, engineering consultancy Merlin ERD, who themselves occupy the ground floor.

“It is very encouraging to see investment on this level coming to Perth,” adds Councillor John Kellas, convener of the Council’s Enterprise & Infrastructure Committee. “It highlights the strength of the area as a place to set up business and the prospects it can offer to a range of industries.”

> INFO graeme.duncan@bidwells.co.uk

BUSINESS HAS TASTE TO INVEST

WWW.INVESTINPERTH.CO.UK

As well as interior changes and new take-away services, an outdoor dog walking area has been created on previously unused ground. Food tastings, new breakfast menus and rewards for regular visitors have also been introduced.

Last year, the fourth annual food and drink report by Bank of Scotland identified that the industry is on course to create an additional 14,000 new jobs by 2020, as producers forecast an average turnover growth of 19%. Bank of Scotland, which supported Taste Perthshire, is proactively looking for further opportunities to invest in the high growth food and drink sector.

GOOD COMPANY | PROPERTY

From venison and salmon, to herbs, cheeses and artisan gins, Perthshire’s annual food and drink torunover equates to almost £300m of turnover.

Taste Perthshire, at Bankfoot, invested a five figure sum in 2015 and is geared up to become a standard-bearer for Perthshire’s finest food and drink, with plans to add a trail and a walled food garden, which will stock the cafe kitchens with fruit, vegetables and herbs.

The four-star attraction’s owner, Calum MacLellan, believes there is a growing appetite for all that the region’s natural larder can offer. “Taste Perthshire is not only about the flavours, it extends to the gifts and hospitality of Perthshire, making the whole thing an experience or ‘taste’ of what the region has to offer.”

> INFO tasteperthshire.co.uk

SPRING/SUMMER 2016_INVEST IN PERTH

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EMPLOYMENT RATE

PERTH & KINROSS

74.5%

SCOTLAND

70.6%

GROSS DISPOSABLE HOUSEHOLD INCOME 2011 (ONS)

POPULATION PROFILE Estimated population of Perth & Kinross and Scotland, by age group, 2013

PERTH & KINROSS

AGE GROUP

£16,755 £15,654

OF TOTAL POP

MALE

FEMALE

TOTAL

0-15

12,621

12,027

24,648

16.7%

16-29

11,692

10,988

22,680

15.4%

30-44

12,550

13,190

25,740

17.4%

45-59

16,163

16,776

32,939

60-74

13,074

14,089

27,163

75+

5,996

8,584

14,580

All ages

72,096

75,654

147,750

PROJECTED POPULATION

147,740 154,101 168,904

22.3%

2012

2017

18.4%

2027 UP 14.3%

COUNT OF ACTIVE ENTERPRISES (ONS)

9.9% 100.0

2009

5225

CITY DRIVE TIMES POPULATION WITHIN 60 MIN DRIVE TIME

POPULATION

POPULATION WITHIN 30 MIN DRIVE TIME

POPULATION

Perth

2,501,639

47.6

116,330

2.2

Glasgow

2,479,057

47.2

1,408,294

26.8

Stirling

2,288,867

43.6

354,652

6.7

Edinburgh

1,560,022

29.7

663,645

12.6

547,604

10.4

232,321

4.4

Dundee

SCOTLAND

Aberdeen

380,603

7.2

266,389

5.1

Inverness

146,659

2.8

84,190

1.6

Source: Drive time extents were calculated using ESRI ProTerritory, and then percent populations calculated by aggregating data zone populations whose centroids fell within these 60 minute extents. Populations used were mid-2011 estimates provided by NRS.

2013

5440 UP 4.1%

QUALIFICATIONS (ONS) NVQ4 AND ABOVE

PERTH & KINROSS

43.5%

SCOTLAND

39.4%

A PLACE TO LIVE (SCOTTISH HOUSEHOLD SURVEY 2015)

PERTH & KINROSS

67%

VERY GOOD

SCOTLAND

55%

VERY GOOD