INcommerce THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
ISSUE 5 • FEBRUARY – APRIL 2010
The Big Interview: Brigadier Mel Jameson CBE, Lord Lieutenant of Perth and Kinross Success Through Engagement Conference 2010 Expo 2010 – Perthshire On A Plate Starring TV Celebrity Chef Gino D’Acampo
Star Award Winners
Something Special Flowers named Perthshire Business of the Year 2009
Providing care and support in your community www.cor n e rs to n e .o rg .u k
Helen Burdett Service Manager
Cornerstone, St Pauls Centre,14 New Row, Perth PH1 5QA • 01738 587944 Helen.young@cornerstone.org.uk
Kevin Toshney Regional Director
Cornerstone, 22 City Quay, Camperdown Street, Dundee DD1 3JA • 01382 220238 Kevin.toshney@cornerstone.org.uk
Contents Editor’s Introduction....................... 4 Chamber Partners.......................... 5 Chamber News........................... 6-7 Perthshire Chamber Of Commerce – Success Through Engagement Conference 2010......................... 8-9 Perthshire on a Plate Expo 2010.................................... 10 Star Awards..............................11-15 Business Update.......................... 16 Business Support..................... 18-20 Business Mentoring...................... 23 Chamber News............................ 29 Life Coaching.............................. 31 Photos courtesy of Graeme Hart, Perthshire Picture Agency.
Welcome
A
fter the freezing numbing start to the year, let’s warm our thoughts to the idea of promising to make every second count and make the most of every remaining moment throughout the rest of this year… making it a year that individually we take control and maximise growth in our life, both personally and professionally. Welcome to this first edition of Incommerce 2010. This is officially a year designated for all Chamber of Commerce members “to be doing”. As busy people each of us will individually enjoy being part of getting things done. “Making it happen” for you and your organisation in 2010 will not depend on the economy, the new government, recovery etc… it will depend on you!! You are in control of you own destiny – so control it – anything stemming from anyone or anywhere else will only act to influence your decisions that will then drive the basis, focus and aim of your actions into getting things done. A year of this activity by all would turn “Perthshire A Great Place to be in Business in Scotland” into a “Fantastic and Most Successful Place to be in Business in Scotland”. Previously I have made reference to memorable stories having a good beginning, middle and end. 2010 for Perthshire Chamber members has all of that and more. I encourage you to mark Tuesday April 20th 2010 in your diary and be available to take up your inclusive place from your membership at our Annual Vision Conference. By attending you will enjoy being among some of the
New Member Profiles.............. 32-34 Chamber President Paul Shields
most inspirational, motivational, informative and communicative business conference delegates ever assembled in Perthshire. You will be inspired and leave Conference this year transformed and wanting to make every second count for the rest of the year if you have not already got on board in doing just that. This year for the first time we will cross all boundaries through inviting like minded business partners to purchase tickets and join us. Membership of groups or bodies from all over Perthshire and beyond drawn from FSB, PBN, BNI, Rotary, and Round Table. neighbouring Chambers, Scottish councils, colleges, tourism and marketing groups along with many other business representatives from around Scotland are all encouraged to be with us this year. Why? To give Perthshire Businesses great opportunities to Network with them whilst through being together we create Perthshire as an Epicentre of Positive Business Activity. To all in membership or the wider readership of this magazine, enjoy being part of making a difference throughout the rest of this year. Kind Regards
Member To Member Discounts.... 35 The Big Interview.................... 36-37 Food & Drink........................... 40-41 Lifestyle....................................... 42 Membership Benefits.................... 45 Events.......................................... 46 Training........................................ 46
For advertising contact D-Tech on T: 01436 821438 E: sales@incommerce.biz For editorial enquiries contact the Editor, Vicki Unite on T: 01738 450401 E: info@perthshirechamber.co.uk Publisher: InCommerce Ltd Distribution: D-Tech Distribution
Paul Shields Chamber President
InCommerce is published by InCommerce Ltd. Royal Northern & Clyde Yacht Club, Rhu, Helensburgh G84 8NG. Telephone 01436 821501. Fax 01436 820028. E-mail: info@dtechuk.com. Edited by Perthshire Chamber of Commerce, Algo Business Centre, Glenearn Road, Perth PH2 0NJ Tel: 01738 450401 Fax: 01738 450402 E-mail: info@perthshirechamber.co.uk. InCommerce is fully protected by copyright and nothing may be printed wholly or in part without the written permission of the publishers. The proprietors of this magazine are publishers and not agents, or sub-agents of those who advertise therein. They cannot be held liable for any loss suffered as a result of information gained from this publication. The views expressed by authors of articles published in this magazine are solely those of the author and are not necessarily the views of or shared by the editor, nor the publisher or the directors, shareholders and/or employees of InCommerce Ltd or D-Tech Graphic Design & Print Ltd.
3
Editor’s Introduction
Vicki Unite
I am really excited about the things we have planned for 2010. Our focus on outlying areas will offer a raft of new events around Perthshire which means new venues to visit and new contacts to make. Other big plans for this year include the exciting “Success Through Engagement Conference 2010” planned for 20th April to which all members are entitled to one place as part of their membership. Then there is a brand new Chamber event entitled, “Perthshire On A Plate” taking place on Friday 2nd and Saturday 3rd July which will involve celebrity chefs, leading local talent, exhibitors, traders and experts to cook up a storm for what promises to be one of the highlights of Perth’s 800th anniversary celebrations. Finally, I can confirm our Annual Dinner & Business Star Awards will return to the glorious Crieff Hydro Hotel and is on a Friday night this year so everyone can really enjoy the night and let their hair down! I look forward to hearing from and meeting as many of you as possible throughout the coming year.
Judy Hickman
Administrative Assistant Judy Hickman plays a vital role within the Chamber structure. Based at the offices at Algo Business Centre, Judy provides the first point of contact for many existing and potential members and is available to provide support and advice on all member services.
4
THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
PerthSHIRE It is our focus this year to really get out into the whole of Perthshire and learn what affects and drives each outlying area. To help with this we have tasked several directors and members with representing a specific area which includes organising events in their areas and feeding into the Chamber the requirements and activities of businesses therein. We look forward to learning more about what is going on where, driven by whom and what can be achieved and how we can all help each other. We currently have Board representation from Perth, Crieff, Aberfeldy, Auchterarder and Blairgowrie and are working with individuals we hope to recruit from additional areas including Kinross and Pitlochry If you have any issues you wish to raise with the Chamber, please contact the office on 01738 450401 or email info@perthshirechamber.co.uk.
New Board Director from Aberfeldy Our newest recruit to the Board is Mike McDiarmid from Aberfeldy. New Director, Mike tells us a bit about himself and what he can bring to the Chamber: “I was brought up by a farming family in Aberfeldy and went on to study Agriculture at Edinburgh. After marrying my wife Kate (from South Australia) we were determined not to be reliant on farming with subsidies and concentrated on expanding and developing our seed potato production and also started our poultry breeding business. In 1999 we opened our retail shop The House of Menzies after restoring a derelict, B- listed farm building which specialises in New World wines, gallery and café. We also run self catering properties which are based on the farm, sleeping between two and 20 guests. We have a family of three and continue to live in Aberfeldy. My interests include skiing, trials biking, piping, stalking and of course wine! I am delighted to be asked to join the board and hope I can bring an additional rural perspective to the Chamber of Commerce.”
|
FEB – APR 10
Chamber Partners The successful Chamber Partnership Packages continue and we wish to once again thank and acknowledge those Partners we currently have on board:
Platinum Partners
Gold Partners
Silver Partners s i d e y. c o . u k
Windows Doors Conservatories Glaziers Kitchens Bathrooms
In response to the current economic climate the Perthshire Chamber of Commerce has launched a new range of sponsorship opportunities. Realising that securing large amounts of funding from a few large companies would become increasingly difficult and unlikely they took the initiative to introduce three levels of partnership which enables more businesses to access to the benefits of sponsorship at an affordable rate. Those opting to become a Silver, Gold or Platinum Partner receive many benefits throughout their year of sponsorship including their membership fees, attendance at events, along with perks that cannot be bought including the chance to address delegates at events and promotion of their companies through Chamber communications. In addition, the Platinum and Gold members receive exposure on the Chamber Golf Day
and Platinum Partners have one of our prestigious Business Star Awards named after them and are involved in the judging and the presenting of the awards at the glittering Annual Dinner which this year take place at Crieff Hydro Hotel on Friday 26th November. These exclusive packages are limited and we are delighted to have the support so far of the aforementioned businesses with whom we enjoy working closely. If you are interested in finding out more about these packages which offer excellent value for money please contact the Chamber office on 01738 450401 or email info@perthshirechamber.co.uk.
THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
|
5
FEB – APR 10
CHAMBER NEWS
IIP Gold for First Independent Finance STOP PRESS!! Further congratulations to First Independent Finance who have also just been awarded the Champions badge! Investors in People Champions is a prestigious group of role model organisations who promote Investors in People through a series of best practice sharing activities.
GREEN TOURISM SCHEME CASE STUDY: Brig Farm Shop, based in Perthshire, signed up to the Green Tourism Business Scheme in 2009 after Nicola Martin attended a GTBS workshop last March and they have been working towards accreditation ever since. Making the decision was easy for Brig who built their business on the basis of Green Practice. Their supply chain by its very nature ticked all of the boxes and with a strong recycling and waste management system already in place, a presence in the local community via Brig in Bloom and the Citta Slow Supporters Group, they felt that they had some of the main criteria covered. Apart from focusing the team and making everyone involved more aware of environmental issues, working towards accreditation has saved money – a real measurable bonus! Although ticking lots of boxes in some areas, they were also way out in others. Large display fridges and freezers in the store and out the back were all reconditioned and ancient. This meant they weren’t falling into the A Band and were likely to be using an excessive amount of electricity. They decided to shift things around and removed some of the display chills, a commercial freezer and double door commercial fridge. The year on year comparison for their electricity usage won’t be apparent until September 2010 as some of their previous bills were estimates, but a year on year actual comparison for July – September showed a £1000 saving!
STOP PRESS!!
Brig Farm Shop is delighted to announce that following their recent Accreditation Visit by Green Business they have been awarded a Silver Award. Congratulations!
6
THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
|
FEB – APR 10
First Independent Finance has always held its people in high regard, believing that to be the cornerstone for great service. To prove that they care they have held Investors In People (IIP) accreditation for 8 years and are delighted to announce that they recently achieved Gold IIP accreditation. Gold status is a challenging set of 196 standards, of which 165 have to be met or exceeded and with such an undertaking, FIF set a target date of the end of 2010. However, after 15 months of hard work, and more than a year ahead of schedule, they were delighted when they found that their team had helped meet or exceed an incredible 191 standards. With only 17 “Golds” awarded in Scotland and only 78 “Golds” in the UK as a whole (as at December 2009), everyone in FIF is bursting with pride at what their people have delivered. Wishing to invest during “tough times”, they also launched a refreshingly different asset finance website which, more than being a shop window for what the company does, gives an opportunity for customers to get a quote out of hours, advertise their own equipment for sale to other FIF customers and there is even a friends’ section introducing organisations they are proud to associate themselves with. Although FIF is based in Stewarton, Ayrshire, founder Director Robin Duncan lives in Blairgowrie and is well known in agricultural circles. Fellow Directors are Andrew Turnbull CA who lives in Perth and looks after commercial and agricultural mortgages (formerly of Turnbull Kemp) and Graham Lowson, who lives in Auchterarder and has recently joined FIF from the Bank of Scotland.
Scotland’s Top Event Marketing Agency to Launch
fest
®
in Perthshire
Perthshire based marketing agency, Volpa, has announced it will launch OOfest, a Perthshire wide food festival this July. The company, which recieved Scotland’s top gong for event marketing at the most recent Scottish Event Awards, is so passionate about the vast array of produce available on their doorstep in Perthshire, they felt it was about time to bring this fabulous fare to the masses or, more to the point, bring the masses to this fabulous fare! OOfest, which will be a celebration of all the good things Perthshire has to offer, will be a month long festival of foodie events hosted by some of Scotland’s best producers, markets, restaurateurs and people who are absolutely passionate about food. Tricia Fox, festival director said “We’ve got some amazing produce in Perthshire and we really ought to be shouting about it. We want to bring together everyone to create a festival of foodie events that will truly tantalise the taste buds and send visitors to Perthshire back to their kitchens, bags bulging, with a renewed passion for local produce.” The festival will run during the month of July and organisers are confident it will become a key feature of this year’s Perth 800 celebrations. Businesses across Perthshire have already committed to taking part, including Perthshire Chamber of Commerce’s Perthshire on a Plate at Perth Concert Hall which will be a cornerstone event of OOfest’s launch weekend. For further information on how to get involved with the festival, visit their website www.oofest.com
CHAMBER NEWS
Huge Investment Transformation at Knock Castle
Banking on Success
A senior banker, who led a team of ten commercial directors throughout Fife and Central Scotland, has added a new dimension to Perthshire client services by joining Tayside accountancy firm EQ. Stephen Bremner (55) was most recently the Royal Bank of Scotland’s Regional Director of Commercial Banking for Fife and Central Scotland, with responsibility for almost 30 staff and an impressive portfolio of clients with turnovers between £1-25 million. Recently-retired Mr Bremner, EQ’s Business Development Consultant, will use his substantial knowledge of the banking sector, as well as the local business community, to benefit both current and prospective clients in the Perth, Forfar and Dundee offices of EQ. Welcoming his appointment, Mr Bremner said:“I’m excited to be joining what is clearly a dynamic and forwardthinking company where I envisage a duel role of contributing to its future growth as well as providing another dimension of business assistance to the firm’s clients. I’m confident that I can provide clients with beneficial and detailed knowledge of the banking sector, particularly during the current economic climate.” David Cameron, Managing Partner said: “It is a real coup to have secured someone who fulfilled such a senior role within banking and we are delighted to welcome him aboard. The appointment, the first of its kind in the company, reflects our desire to provide a full range of expertise for our clients and our ambition to continue to grow our market share throughout Scotland.”
Since the purchase of the property in 2007, Knock Castle has invested a considerable amount on refurbishments and renovations to transform this stately mansion into a luxury hotel and spa. The Henderson Group bought the property in December 2007 for over £2 million and they have since undertaken a £1.5 million refurbishment. As part of this refurbishment, the facilities now include a state of the art gymnasium, which has been extended, sauna, jacuzzi, steam room, 12 treatments rooms, fine dining restaurant, private dining facilities, residents’ cinema, 30 luxury bedrooms to fit all budgets from standard through to suite, as well as a separate self contained lodge property for larger parties. They have also introduced a new private personal trainer, exclusive to Knock Castle and 2010 also saw Knock Castle changing all of their spa treatments to Dermalogica in their journey to make Knock Castle a better place for you to unwind and relax. In December 2009, they opened their new rooftop restaurant, the ‘Stag’s View’. Their menus will continue to use the best of Scottish ingredients and they will continue to strive to offer their customers the best possible spa, hotel and dining experience. Chef Patron, Jason Henderson features only the finest local produce. The style of cookery is Scottish contemporary with heavy influence on using only the finest Scottish produce and organic where possible. Accomplished Chef, Jason, has over 15 years experience working in several prominent UK and overseas culinary establishments.
GOOD DESIGN IS GOOD FOR YOUR BUSINESS! Perth based design agency Creative Orange has recently launched a new online service for Chamber of Commerce members and local business owners. The new Creative Orange Blog is a free area where you can pick up useful advice and helpful tips on how good design can have a positive impact on your business. Les Johnson of Creative Orange said: “We are trying to educate local businesses as to how they can benefit from projecting a professional brand. We have worked alongside many businesses across a wide range of industries and have helped them tap into new markets which has not only helped them raise their profile amongst their competitors but has also had a positive effect of the turnover of their business.” Creative Orange believe that the next 12 months will be an important time for businesses in the area and can see how
business owners can benefit from the upcoming 2010 coverage that the area will receive. Les added: “The Perth 800 celebrations will see the local economy receive a major boost over the coming months and provide a platform to showcase business throughout the region. I believe this is the chance to raise the profile of your business and promote your services and products to thousands of potential new customers!” To see how good design can be good for your business visit the new Creative Orange Blog at www.creativeorange.co.uk/contact. htm and click on ‘Visit Our Blog’.
THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
|
7
FEB – APR 10
Perthshire Chamber of Commerce – Success Through Engagement Conference 2010 Several of the country’s leading motivational speakers will gather in Perth this spring for the Perthshire Chamber of Commerce – Success Through Engagement Conference 2010. Leading names from the worlds of business and politics will feature in the day-long conference on Tuesday, April 20, in Perth Concert Hall. Designed to bolster business thinking during difficult times, inspire new initiatives and motivate business co-operation, the day’s programme sees some of the key drivers in these sectors take to the platform – including one of the UK’s leading motivational speakers, Sewells chairman Dr William Holden. Dr Holden, who specialises in positive business transformation, has inspired business audiences across the country and his in-demand book “The Guide” has become a boardroom “must have”. His afternoon keynote address is expected to be a highlight in a programme punctuated with top flight speakers. In a departure from the norm, Perthshire Chamber of Commerce will hold its annual general meeting immediately prior to the conference (8.15am) allowing members to gather for Chamber business before the main programme (9.15am – 4pm). The day will be hosted by international facilitators Chris Whitehead and Mike Kean of W2 Training. Together they will encourage delegate interaction with the platform personalities which also include economic expert Nick Parsons, economist contracted to the National Australia Group who own both Clydesdale and Yorkshire Banks, regular TV contributor and media commentator. The day’s impressive line-up also features John Seddon - an occupational psychologist, researcher, professor, management thinker and leading authority on change in the public sector. He is a visiting professor at Cardiff University Business School and author of several thought changing best sellers including Systems Thinking in the Public Sector, the Failure of the Reform Regime and a Manifesto for a Better Way. The morning’s programme will close with a joint presentation by Jobcentre Plus and Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs – outlining the services they can offer and how businesses can access them. With politics very much on the agenda this spring, prospective MPs will gather for a Westminster hustings-style debate in the afternoon, with conference delegates given the opportunity to quiz the four main party candidates after hearing what they propose to do for the business community should they be successful. The conference will include a two-course fork lunch and networking. Perthshire Chamber of Commerce president Paul Shields said he was confident the impressive line-up of speakers would attract business delegates from all sectors and urged both Chamber members and other businesses to attend.
8
THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
|
FEB – APR 10
“Business people want something special from a conference nowadays,” he said. “It’s no longer good enough to hear the same message repeated over and over again until the room falls asleep. “These are difficult times for business and we want to hear inspirational, motivational addresses which will prompt us into action. Our programme for April 20 offers exactly that. “I defy anyone to go away without feeling they want to action something they’ve learned. Every bit of positive help businesses are offered should be grabbed with both hands and shared with others,” added Mr Shields. “This is not a good time to be alone in business and the conference theme is all about working together for success.”
Professor John Seddon John Seddon is an occupational psychologist and management thinker credited with translating the Toyota Production System (TPS) for service organisations. John maintains the TPS is not a set of tools, but a different way of thinking about the design and management of work. ‘Lean’ as tools, he insists, is to completely miss the point and was something Taiichi Ohno (the architect of the TPS) argued against. The principles behind the systems approach are counterintuitive to the command-and-control mindset and, hence, are best learned by doing. John and his colleagues in Vanguard have developed methods to help managers study and re-design their organisations as systems, teaching in the same way as Ohno taught. In service organisations change is much faster than in manufacturing, for nothing is ‘made’. Profound results can be achieved rapidly provided managers change the way they think. The challenges are challenges to management conventions: targets, economies of scale, back-offices and people-management are just a few of the conventions John eschews. John is a visiting professor at Cardiff and Derby Universities and a visiting fellow at Hull University. He is also the author of: “Systems Thinking in the Public Sector: the failure of the reform regime and a manifesto for a better way”, Triarchy Press, 2008. www.systemsthinking.co.uk
Dr William Holden Born and raised in St. Helens, Merseyside, Will Holden has forged a highly successful career taking in academia, industry and personal development. As owner of Sewells, a business and people development company, Will and his team have been providing unrivalled leadership, management, sales and motivational training to companies and individuals for the last 20 years of its nearly 50 year existence. He has now written and published the life changing book ‘the guide,’ to much critical acclaim. After a highly successful career teaching at the University of Glasgow and 10 years as European Divisional Vice President with a global finance and insurance services provider, Will became Chairman and sole owner of Sewells. Under Will’s direction, the company has expanded rapidly in a host of other industry sectors including finance, manufacturing, education, telecommunications, petrochemicals, leisure and retail. The company’s impressive client list includes BT, Kelloggs, Barclays, Honda (UK), Mars, Rolls Royce, Reckitt Benkiser, RAC, Marks and Spencer and Shell. A compelling and charismatic individual, Will is highly respected by all his clients as a man of with insight, honesty and integrity. His judgement and advice are keenly sought as he possesses a deep understanding of what drives human behaviour. Totally committed to the achievement of potential in individuals and businesses, so much so, Will’s now written a life changing personal development book called the guide’ – a brilliant read for people serious about making their lives better. the guide is receiving much media attention and Will is in demand from many media outlets requesting his expertise for motivational and life changing articles and programmes.
Steve Bargeton Steve Bargeton is Political Editor of The Courier newspaper. Over a 30-year journalistic career he has been a news reporter, features writer, columnist and leader writer. Based at Holyrood, Steve is immersed in the Scottish political and media scene with excellent contacts at Holyrood and Westminster. In his capacity as a Territorial Army Officer, he is principle media advisor to the senior officer commanding the Army in Scotland. Married to Audrey, they have three daughters.
NICK PARSONS Nick Parsons joined National Australia Bank in March 2007 as Head of Markets Strategy, based in London. He has over 25 years’ experience in FX and global money markets. He is a regular contributor to CNBC, BBC, SKY and Bloomberg news and is frequently quoted by major newspapers and news agencies. Since December 2007 he has been a member of the SKY TV Money Panel.
8.00am – 8.20am
Arrival for Perthshire Chamber of Commerce Members – tea/coffee & bacon rolls
8.30am – 9.00am
Perthshire Chamber Members AGM
8.45am – 9.20am
Conference Delegate Arrivals networking with Chamber members after AGM finishes
9.30am for 5 mins
President’s Welcome and Introductions to Chris and Mike, Facilitators for the day from W2 Training Perth
9.35am for 10 mins
W2 Facilitators scene setting
9.45am for 25 mins
Opening speaker to be confirmed
10.10am for 10 mins
Q & A Lead by W2
10.20am for 35 mins
Author of Systems Thinking in the Public Sector our Keynote Speaker John Seddon
10.55am for 10 mins
Q & A Lead by W2
11.05am for 35 mins
Economist Nick Parsons
11.40am for 10 mins
Q & A Lead by W2
11.50am for 15 mins
HMRC Presentation
12.05pm for 15 mins
Jobcentreplus Presentation
12.20pm for 10 mins
Q & A Lead by W2
12.30pm – 1.45pm
Lunch
1.45pm – 2.45pm
Political Hustings with the main Party Candidates contesting the Perthshire Westminster Electoral seats
2.45pm – 3.45pm
Author of the “Guide our Motivational and Inspirational” Keynote Speaker Dr William Holden
3.45pm for 10 mins
W2 Recap on the day
3.55pm
President’s Closing Remarks and thanks followed by: Jillian and Stephen Page Something Special florists Blairgowrie, Perthshire Business Star Award Winners of 2009 launching Star Awards 2010
chamber event
Perthshire On A Plate
Perthshire’s abundance of natural produce and culinary talent will come under the spotlight this summer as Perthshire Chamber of Commerce hosts a brand new event for the food lover’s calendar. Perthshire On A Plate will be the main focus of the Chamber’s Expo 2010 event at Perth Concert Hall on Friday, July 2, and Saturday, July 3. TV Celebrity chef and “King of the Jungle” Gino D’Acampo , will guest throughout the day with demonstrations, book signings and general chat in his first visit to the Fair City. Leading local talent, exhibitors, traders and experts are being lined up to cook up a storm for what promises to be one of the highlights of Perth’s 800th anniversary celebrations. Chamber chief executive Vicki Unite explained why Perthshire On A Plate is on the menu. “Food events are staged the length and breadth of Scotland on an annual basis,” she said, “and they never fail to appeal to the trade and the public. “Since the demise of Perthshire Food Festival several years ago, Perth has fallen behind in terms of staging major public food events – which is outrageous considering Perthshire is really the top shelf of Scotland’s larder with an abundance of prime quality produce covering everything from game to soft fruit. “The Chamber wants to showcase that larder with Perthshire On A Plate with the help of producers, suppliers, retailers and experts from across the county.” Although the exciting event will be staged over two days, plans are to focus on trade during the Friday while creating a fabulous programme of demonstrations, tastings and exhibitions for the public on the Saturday. “We plan to make Perthshire On A Plate really mouthwatering in every sense,” said Ms Unite. “We’ve been encouraged by the support and enthusiasm shown by the business community for such a showcase public event and we’re confident it will be a very tasty festival.”
10
THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
|
FEB – APR 10
STAR AWARDS Photography by Graeme Hart
Chamber Business Winner Is Truly Something Special Blairgowrie florists Stephen and Jillian Page have been riding a rollercoaster since their company was named as Perthshire’s best business. Something Special Flowers walked off with the area’s top business accolade at Perthshire Chamber of Commerce’s glittering Star Awards ceremony in Perth in November. Over 300 from the local business community attended the sellout event hosted by Mary Queen of Scots (Lesley Smith) which recognised and rewarded business achievement during 2009. And husband and wife partnership Stephen and Jillian and their team from the Wellmeadow florist led the cheers when their business was crowned overall winner. “It’s been absolutely amazing,” said Jillian. “Winning the award has really put our name out there and there’s no doubt that a large number of new clients and increased business over the last few months has been on the back of our Star Award accolade. “People in the business community and the public who see us recognised for business excellence naturally want to use someone perceived as ‘the best’,” she added. “That extra boost from the Chamber has made all the difference.” Established in 2001, Something Special Flowers scooped the Customer Service category award before being named the Chamber’s “Perthshire Business of the Year 2009”. Now one of the largest independent florist’s shops in Scotland, the company employs a handpicked team of talented professionals who take delight in catering for all floristry needs.
“Our Star Award trophies are always on display in the shop window and they’re still very much a talking point,” said Jillian. “We’ve had many messages of congratulations. “Stephen and I never thought in a month of Sundays that we could beat the very strong opposition that the Star Awards attracts – especially the large nationally and internationally recognised companies. It was a truly amazing night. “But our success shows that even the little minnows can win the day and I hope other small businesses take heart from that.” Stephen pointed out that their growing business would hopefully allow them to take on another junior to train and advance in the world of floristry. “Being recognised as the best business has taken Something Special Flowers far beyond the boundaries of Blairgowrie and even outwith Perthshire and we would encourage all businesses to enter the Chamber’s Star Awards to aim for that same goal – next time, it could be you.” Chamber President Paul Shields said it was “tremendous” to see a small, independent company scoop the business title. “Something Special Flowers is a strong, well presented, well run business which excels in customer service and care,” he said. “There are few town centres in Scotland which would not welcome such a company with open arms for the enhancement it brings to the local retail profile. “Perthshire Chamber of Commerce congratulates Jillian, Stephen and their staff and we’re delighted to add Something Special Flowers to our prestigious roll of honour.” Perth South Street contemporary gift shop, Bertie Browns, was given a special commendation taking second place in the overall Business of the Year Award.
THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
|
11
FEB – APR 10
Business category winnerS Perthshire Advertiser Employee of the Year Star Award
Iris Turner of Glendoick Garden Centre Perth College UHI New Business Star Award
Senses Health & Beauty
Jane Spiers, Chief Executive of Horsecross, wins the game of Heads & Tails
Bank of Scotland, Corporate Banking Customer Service Star Award
Something Special Flowers
A & J Stephen (Builders) Training and Development Star Award
Aviva Plc
Symphony Hotels & Leisure Retail Star Award
Bertie Browns
PSYBT Creative Star Award
Alexander Scott Consulting Engineers
President Paul Shields welcomes guests
Campbell Dallas Tourism and Hospitality Star Award
The Famous Grouse Experience
Perth & Kinross Council, Economic Development Marketing Star Award
Perth College UHI
Fairfield Housing Co-operative Business in the Community Star Award
Aviva Plc
Euna Scott and Geoff Brown receive their President’s Awards from Paul Shields Mary Queen of Scots (Lesley Smith) with her famous gift
12
THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
The Perth Concert Hall ceremony also saw the presentation of two special President’s Awards. These discretionary honours are granted to local business people whose work or extra efforts have resulted in local economic benefits or community enhancements across Perthshire. The first President’s Award was made to Euna Scott, Chair of beautiful Perth for the dedication and passion she brings to her role encouraging locals to take get actively involved, care for the environment and have a sense of civic pride. A delighted and surprised St. Johnston FC Chairman, Geoff Brown, accepted the second of these awards in acknowledgement of his contribution to the football club and the resultant benefits for the whole of Perth and Kinross.
|
FEB – APR 10
STAR AWARDS
Perthshire Advertiser Employee of the Year Star Award Iris Turner of Glendoick Garden Centre Iris Turner, Manager, Glendoick Café at Glendoick Garden Centre Throughout 2009 Iris was tasked with spearheading major changes in the restaurant and succeeded in both sustaining a growing business and driving through a raft of changes. Iris exceeded bosses expectations in rising to the challenge, displaying her true professionalism and gusto for life, making a challenging time for both the café and its customers a seamless transition. Iris Turner (centre) with Alison Lowson, Perthshire Advertiser Editor, and Mary Queen of Scots
Perth College UHI New Business Star Award Senses Health & Beauty Senses is a bespoke health and beauty salon in Aberargie offering luxurious treatments to men and women seeking to escape the stresses of modern life. The salon offers a wide variety of treatments including waxing, manicures, pedicures, facials and body treatments with an emphasis on relaxation. The products used are top of the range and the salon describes itself as “a heavenly retreat which invigorates all five senses”. Those seeking maternity and organic treatments will also find the answer at Senses.
Ashley Henderson (centre) with Sheena Howden of Perth College and Mary Queen of Scots
Bank of Scotland, Corporate Banking Customer Service Star Award Something Special Flowers Something Special Flowers of Blairgowrie is one of the largest independent florists’ shops in the country employing a hand picked team of talented professionals who take delight in catering for all floristry needs. Supplying both public and commercial clients, the company’s wide ranging services include catering for weddings, funeral, corporate events, special occasions as well as regular arrangements for home and office and even floral fashions such as fascinators. Something Special Flowers also supports charity events and holds classes to pass on skills.
Jillian & Stephen Page (centre) with Nigel Walker, Bank of Scotland, and Mary Queen of Scots
THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
|
13
FEB – APR 10
STAR AWARDS
A & J Stephen (Builders) Training and Development Star Award Aviva Plc Aviva Commercial Underwriting Centre for Insurance Excellence In June 2008, Aviva announced its intention to grow its Perth office at Pitheavlis into a Centre of Insurance Excellence. This Centre represents a major commitment to Perth, bringing job security and career development to existing employees and 345 new job opportunities to the local community. The impact of this has seen their £60m million book of commercial business in Perth grow to a massive £430 million and an increase in the commercial underwriting department from 60 to 280 staff.
Representatives from Norwich Union with John Stephen of A & J Stephen (Builders) Ltd (far left) and Mary Queen of Scots
Symphony Hotels & Leisure Retail Star Award Bertie Browns Bertie Browns is a “shocking pink” independent retail outlet offering a unique collection of contemporary silver jewellery, accessories, cards and gifts. Employing six members of staff, Bertie Browns opened in March 2005 and moved earlier this year to larger more prominent premises in Perth city centre offering their customers a much larger browsing and shopping area. In 2007, the company launched an e-commerce website allowing customers to browse the unique collection of stylish jewellery and have it delivered to the door step beautifully gift wrapped.
Jane Walker (centre) with Mike Sheffield of Symphony Hotels & Leisure Ltd, and Mary Queen of Scots
PSYBT Creative Star Award Alexander Scott Consulting Engineers Building design and consultancy specialists, Alexander Scott Consulting Engineers, was established 11 years ago, forging new ground in the way buildings and other structures and designed and built. Approached to design a Bungee Jump Platform at the Garry Bridge, by Killiecrankie, the company was faced with a variety of technical challenges and safety issues along with creating an attraction in an environmentally sensitive areas renowned for its views and historical importance. The project would involve technical expertise, creative innovation and conservation – set to test the broad range of skills for which Alexander Scott are becoming known.
14
THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
|
FEB – APR 10
David Scott (centre) with Alastair Byres of PSYBT and Mary Queen of Scots
STAR AWARDS
Campbell Dallas Tourism and Hospitality Star Award The Famous Grouse Experience The Famous Grouse Experience welcomes over 100, 000 visitors every year from all over the world to Scotland’s oldest and most visited distillery at Glenturret. Established in 1775 – though it dates back to 1717 – the centre still produces around 156,000 litres of whisky per year in the old, traditional way. The Experience is one of Scotland’s most visited 5* attractions and boasts the Grouse A Phone, Whisky Nosing and an interactive Flight with the Famous Grouse. Other award winning facilities include the restaurant, function and conference suites and popular shop.
Tracey McCafferty (centre) with Andrew Ritchie of Campbell Dallas and Mary Queen of Scots
Perth & Kinross Council, Economic Development Marketing Star Award Perth College UHI Last year Perth College UHI launched an innovative 6-week marketing campaign to capitalise on the Christmas spend market while promoting the lifelong learning benefits available through January-start courses. In its simplest form the campaign encouraged Christmas shoppers to invest in the “gift of learning” with over 300 leisure, distance learning, business development and open access courses offered as personalised and boxed gifts. The aim was to increase student numbers, increase course numbers and provide tangible returns on relatively low investment during what had been, for the college, a traditionally quiet enrolment period.
Lisa Stewart & Gordon Low (centre) with Cllr Anne Gaunt of Perth & Kinross Council and Mary Queen of Scots
Fairfield Housing Co-operative Business in the Community Star Award Aviva Plc Aviva has a group wide approach to supporting the community as a major employer in Perth & Kinross and supporting the local population. Their aim is to channel their expertise and resources – financial and organisational – into areas where they can really make a difference. In Perth and Kinross they focus on: • Supporting a local charity • Education for schools • Education in the workplace. And their ultimate goal is to use the strengths within Aviva Perth to build a local community partnership.
Representatives from Norwich Union with Grant Ager of Fairfield Housing (far left) and Mary Queen of Scots
THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
|
15
FEB – APR 10
Business Update
PERTHSHIRE P RO P E RT Y
S E R V I C E S
www.perthshireps.co.uk Perthshire Property Services offers Property Lettings and Management. We have Property to let all over Perthshire. Landlord & Property Management Services •Letting & management service •Full property management •Let only packages available
Trading Standards New Approach
•Flats houses luxury properties •Quality tradesmen used •Fixed landlord fees Advertise your property from only £25+VAT!
M
ore support for local businesses and increased protection from unscrupulous competitors are some of the benefits of a new way of working recently introduced by the Council’s Trading Standards Service. Changes to statutory performance reporting mean that the service now focuses its resources on where they are needed most – tackling problem traders and helping local businesses comply with trading laws. Trading Standards are now able to make better use of national and local intelligence to pinpoint traders flouting the law and taking advantage of consumers. Officers also carry out inspection projects with the intention of visiting business premises in a chosen area on a ‘walking the beat’ basis. Trading Standards seeks to ensure that businesses can compete fairly on a “level playing field” and this new approach to working is aimed at reinforcing that message. Chamber members are encouraged to engage with the Trading Standards Service and seek advice whenever necessary because getting things right in the beginning is always the best way. If members would like to discuss any issues they have they should contact Trading Standards on 01738 476476 or email es@pkc. Chamber members may also wish to join the Better Business Partnership Scheme which assists consumers in choosing businesses to contract with. Scheme members agree to trade in an open and fair manner and comply with legal obligations. Further information on the scheme is posted on www.pkc.gov.uk Provided by: Chris Jolly, Trading Standards Officer, The Environment Service, Email: csjolly@pkc. gov.uk Tel:- 01738 475265 Web: www.pkc.gov.uk
Tenants Accompanied viewings, friendly staff. Low credit checking costs.
First Floor Office 48 Scott Street Perth PH1 5EH Tel 01738 561409 Fax 01738 567565 email: info@perthshireps.co.uk www.perthshireps.co.uk
Chris Jolly Trading Standards Officer, Perth
16
THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
|
FEB – APR 10
the guide works. Let it work for you. Close Asset Finance Limited
If you are one of the many people who long for a better life, this is the book for you. the guide explains not just what to do to improve any aspect of your or anyone’s life, but also why and how it works.
CLOSE ASSET FINANCE ARE THE FINANCE AND RE-FINANCE SPECIALISTS DEDICATED TO YOUR INDUSTRY. FOR TWENTY YEARS CLOSE ASSET FINANCE HAS BEEN HELPING OUR CUSTOMER TO GROW THEIR BUSINESS.
the guide delivers simple step by step insights on how to free ourselves from an unrewarding past and achieve everything we’ve ever wanted. “The simple principles and practices contained in these pages do work and we’ve got an Olympic Gold Medal to prove it.” - Rhona, Fiona, Debbie, and Janice - British Women’s Olympic Gold Medal Winning Curling Team
UNLIKE MANY OF OUR COMPETITIORS WE’RE HERE FOR THE GOOD TIMES AND THE NOT SO GOOD. AT CLOSE ASSET FINANCE OUR DOOR IS ALWAYS OPEN! Written by Dr. William Holden, Chairman and owner of Sewells, an internationally renowned organisation for providing behavioural transformation and performance improvement programmes. To find out more visit www.sewells.com or call 01244 68 10 68
Chris Ogg Area Manager
TEL: 0141 639 778 FAX: 0141 639 7792 MOBILE: 07825 178663 HOME FAX: 01738 633536 email: cogg@closeasset.co.uk web: www.closeasset.co.uk
Close Asset Finance Limited No other finance package comes close www.closeasset.co.uk
New year! New funding!
Speak to anyone in business and ask for an overview of 2009 and it’s almost certain that they would highlight the withdrawal of banks from general commercial lending as a particular negative in an already challenging period for the U.K. Economy. The reluctance of many banks to lend has become a serious problem for owners and directors who wish to grow their business. However, businesses may be closer than they think to a funding solution. Many businesses who previously used bank overdraft or loan facilities are now spreading the risk by using independent finance companies entirely separate from their current bank. This strategy negates the financial control of the primary funder over their business by not having all borrowings concentrated with one sole banking provider. Asset finance for capital purchases Specialist funders can provide bespoke deals for complex transactions and are still willing to provide facilities where a business or proprietor has had previous problems.
Asset finance products fall into two main categories: Hire purchase and leasing Unlike bank overdraft facilities they are typically based on fixed rates which allows businesses to budget accurately by removing the risk of fluctuations in interest rates. Hire purchase features and benefits • Ownership passes to business at end of agreement • Capital allowances are reclaimed by the borrower • Tax relief available for interest paid • Bespoke agreements tailored to suit business cash flow
Leasing features and benefits • Rentals are allowable against taxable profits • VAT spread over duration of agreement • Agreement can be extended beyond initial period of hire • Bespoke agreements tailored to suit business cash flow Both types of facility are available for a wide range of equipment: • Motor/commercial vehicles • Plant equipment • Waste recycling equipment
• Forklifts and materials handling equipment • Agricultural machinery • Haulage and transport • Re-finance of existing assets Hire purchase and leasing are also available for the re-finance of existing assets allowing businesses to:
Advertising Feature
Close Asset Finance Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority
• Raise capital to buy another business • Release capital to build new premises • Raise capital to open another branch Or • Extend agreements to reduce outgoings • Re-structure payments around existing cash flow If other assets are available as security, a combination of equity release and payment re-structuring may be possible Summary Businesses can avoid dependence and concentration of risk with their principal bankers by using specialist asset finance funders. Equipment and vehicles can be funded over it’s working life and companies can choose between hire purchase or leasing depending on their tax position and cash flow requirements.
THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
|
17
FEB – APR 10
BUSINESS SUPPORT
Innovation Support Service from Scottish Enterprise Tayside The Innovation Support Service is a free, impartial Innovation
In the most basic terms, innovation is about making money by successfully exploiting new ideas. The path from an idea to ng money by successfully exploiting new successful commercial exploitation is often long, never direct, ercial exploitation is oftenrisks long, involves significant andnever frequently requires re-thinking and quires re-thinking and changes of changes of direction. Innovation ovation advisory service available Advisers at Scottish Enterprise see many vation projects /activities. companies with new, innovative ideas and are often asked to consider providing financial support to help develop and bring ney bycompanies successfully exploiting new any with new, innovative ideas exploitation is often long,to never them market. Years of collective experience has taught us that alre-thinking support to and bring themproject is invariably well and changes of develop thehelp development part of an innovation ht us that executed. the development part of an However, the commercial exploitation of innovative mpanies with new, innovative ideas projects has beenexploitation less successful.of wever, the commercial ort to help develop and bring them Common failures can be attributed to the lack of understanding hat the development part of an of the target the commercial exploitation of market and understanding the customer value of the product /service being offered. Many companies engage too understanding ofinthe target market and fully understanding the quickly development activity without tanding of the target market and /service being offered. Many companies factors that will impact and inform the business case of a ce being offered. critical Many companies understanding the critical and factors project ultimately its ‘success’. tct and fully understanding the critical factors ultimately its ‘success’. There are a large number of support services and information a project and ultimately its ‘success’. mation resourcesresources available toavailable assist to assist companies in many topics associated f innovation. However, it is often with the process of innovation. However, it is often difficult to de.information resources available to assist know where to go for advice and at what stage. ocess of innovation. However, it isService often is focused on helping with th the front-end planning Ourprocess Innovation Support n project. As well as advice and the front-end planning process and developing robust business at stage. help identify and link your business cases for your innovation project. As well as advice and guidance ble information resources. from experienced innovation advisers ping with the front-end planning processwe will help identify and link your business to relevant partner organisations and point novation project. As well as advice and you to available information resources. e will help identify link your Further and information and business access details can be found on the available information resources. Scottish Enterprise website: www.scottish-enterprise.com/ erprise innovation-advisory. Alternatively, if you wish to speak to someone about the service, call 0845 607 8787. 45 607 8787. Note: this is a project planning and advisory service, not a grant assessment exercise. sment Provided by Sandra Jamieson, Growth Prospecting Manager, Scottish Enterprise tish Enterprise Tayside, Email: sandra.jamieson@ scotent.co.uk Tel: 01382 305596 www.scottish-enterprise.com
call 0845 607 8787. assessment Sandra Jamieson, Growth Prospecting Manager, Scottish Enterprise Tayside
18
THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
gency
|
TM Classic Media, Inc. All rights reserved.
advisory service available all businesses needing advice and ial Innovation advisory servicetoavailable guidance on innovation projects and activities. n innovation projects /activities.
Now, that’s true love. We’re committed to nurturing the best Perthshire has to offer.
www.thewaterfromorganicland.com
01738 630007
www.write-on-signs.com
NEW
rinter te Digital P a tr s b u S Direct to onto: nts directly
ss etals - Gla M s ic t s Pla eramics C s e il t x e Wood - T Ideal for: Pri
s Exhibition Displays le Point of Sa Hoardings itemrss, etc.) Nove, Tltily es, Mirro (Doors
FEB – APR 10
The water from organic land
INNOVATIONS
New, Once Worn & Vintage
Fashions & Dress Agency
•Conveyancing •Agricultural Tenancies & Partnerships •Purchase and Sale of Farms & Estates •Wills, Trusts & Executries •Tax Planning •Commercial Property Work •Liquor Licensing •Divorce & Family Law
The small shop packed with style! Designer Wedding Outfits Occasion, Day & Weekend Wear Shoes, Bags & Jewellery
•Civil Litigation
Contact Beth Hamilton or Stuart Gibb at 61 High Street, Dunblane FK15 0EH Tel: 01786 822296 Fax: 01786 824249 Email: bartys@bartys.co.uk
Coming this Spring Perth and District Post and Tay Valley Post
If you wish to promote your business please contact: Peter Brock, CBC Publications, P.O. Box 26305, Crieff PH7 3YP. Tel/fax 01764 652665 www.crieffanddistrictpost.co.uk Member of Perthshire Chamber of Commerce.
01738 638568
5 Abbot Street, Perth PH2 0EB
Public sector reform hasn’t worked. Systems Thinking does.
DELIVERING PUBLIC SERVICES THAT WORK VOLUME ONE Edited by Peter Middleton
Foreword by John Seddon
•Weddings•Corporate events •Private Functions Why not hire Pedro for on the spot caricatures. pedrocaricatures@aol.com
SYSTEMS THINKING IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR: CASE STUDIES
“The WLGA sees the work of John Seddon as essential to public services reform. I have been hugely impressed with the impact that the work of John and his colleagues has had in challenging traditional thinking.” Steve Thomas, Chief Executive, Welsh Local Government Association (WLGA)
John Seddon’s new book explains how Systems Thinking is transforming our public services:
www.triarchypress.com/Seddon image by John Glen Photography.Perth.
BUSINESS SUPPORT
Innovation Awards for Business Development
Ballathie Estates is one of the businesses to have reaped the benefits of an innovation voucher award.
Scotland’s Higher Education Institutes are home to a wealth of, often untapped, talent that can help companies to grow and develop their businesses. In considering working with an academic partner, companies can face two hurdles: •
Identifying the academic best placed to match their requirements
•
Finding appropriate funding to offset the costs of the research to be undertaken
Interface (www.interface-online.org.uk) delivers a free brokerage service to identify the correct academic as well as funding opportunities such as the new Innovation Voucher scheme. The Scottish Funding Council is driving the new scheme to help small to medium-sized enterprises access the expertise within Scottish academia by providing the vouchers to offset the academic costs associated with collaborative projects. The scheme offers awards from £500 up to £5,000 and aims to deliver new products and processes that will benefit the business, the institution and the Scottish economy. Innovation Vouchers are specifically to encourage new partnerships that have not jointly received funding from any source previously for the proposed project. One project that has reaped the benefits of an innovation voucher award is Ballathie Estates Ltd. Interface will be hosting a Food and Drink event in Perth in early 2010. Provided by: Donna Kudarenko, Marketing Officer, INTERFACE - The knowledge connection for business Email: donna@interface-online.org.uk Tel: 0131 651 4318 Mob: 07891 931 955, Web: www.interface-online.org.uk.
Donna Kudarenko, Marketing Officer, INTERFACE
20
THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
|
FEB – APR 10
Advertising Feature
Farquhar and Son Ltd
E
We have listed a fraction of our job portfolio to give you a guide to our capabilities: • Advertising and Promotional Material – Leaflets, Postcards, Brochures, Newsletters, Magazines, Calendars and Presentation Folders • Corporate Stationery – Letterheads, Compliment Slips, Business Cards, Memo Pads and Fax Headers • Business Forms – NCR Sets, Pads, Books, Continuous Computer Stationery and Listing Paper • Point of Sale – Widow Posters, Roller Banner Display Systems, Display Boards, Banners, Wobblers and Tentcards Once the print project is complete our services can be complimented with multi drop deliveries throughout the UK, personaliation and mailing using cost effective postage solutions or simply bulk delivered to the address of your choice. For a competitive quotation using our fully computerised estimating system, or if you require an appointment with one of our sales team, please telephone 01738 624173 where we will be happy to offer you impartial advice on obtaining the best quality product to suit your budget.
NEW FOR 2010 Full Colour on 325gsm White Card
Full Colour on 150gsm Gloss/Satin
Full Colour on 300gsm Trucard
Business Cards
A4 Leaflets
A6 Postcards
from
from
£29
Quantity 100 250 500 1000
Price £29 £39 £49 £59
£49
Quantity 250 500 1000 2000
Price £49 £59 £69 £89
Double sided cards available on request
Double sided leaflets available on request
Full Colour on 150gsm Gloss/Satin
Full Colour on 130gsm Gloss/Satin
A5 Leaflets
A4 4 Page Newsletter
from
£39
Quantity 250 500 1000 2000
Price £39 £49 £59 £79
Double sided leaflets available on request
from
£89
Quantity 100 250 500 1000
Price £89 £109 £129 £169
from
£49
Quantity 250 500 750 1000
Price £39 £49 £59 £69
Reverse side printed in black ink only
FOR 2010 JUST OFF THE PRESS OTIONAL OM PR D PERSONALISE PRODUCTS NEW CATALOGUE
Other sizes and quantities available on request
Full Colour Graphic on 180micron Stoplite with Crystal Lamination Protection
Roller Banner Display Systems
£139
assembled complete with padded carry case
PEN S, MUG S, MO USE MAT S AND MO RE
S LOUR PADGE 160 CO UCTS OTIONAL PRO
ISED OF PERSONAL
We make the right impression! DigitalonDemand.indd 1
PROM
W TO REQUEST
TELEPHONE NO St Andrew Street Perth PH2 8HY PY YOUR PERSONAL CO Tel 01738 624173 Fax 01738 630838 E-mail print@farquhars.net Website www.farquhars.net
All prices subject to VAT where applicable and are based on print ready artwork supplied. Terms and conditions available on request.
stablished in 1870, Farquhar and Son Ltd have the answer to all your litho, digital and large format print requirements. By utilising the many years experience gained in design and print our skilled operators use the latest technology to ensure a quality of service that will enhance and promote your business or organisation. Traditional litho printing is still the mainstay of our business, but following an investment of £50,000 in the latest digital print technology, 2010 sees the launch of a new service from Farquhar and Son Ltd, Digital on Demand. Using this latest technology Farquhar and Son Ltd can offer a range of products aimed at the short run print market – training manuals, newsletters, leaflets, greetings cards and invitations to name but a few examples. Digital on Demand offers the same quality product we would produce using our litho presses but with the added benefits of quick turnround, from file supplied to printed job as well as dramatic cost savings on the shorter print run. Based in the town centre with free parking, putting ink on paper is our speciality – whether your requirement is a simple business card or a complex brochure, single colour printing, multi colour printing or a simple photocopy job we are sure we can be of service to you.
Graphic Design / Litho Printing / Digital Printing / Wide Format Printing 5/1/10 14:54:00
Advertising Feature
Morrison’s Academy: Developing the Whole Child from Nursery to Secondary
O
ne characteristic defines Morrison’s Academy above all others: its unique atmosphere. In our Nursery, Primary and Secondary, we believe that no other school in Scotland possesses such a family-oriented, inclusive spirit as Morrison’s and this has been nurtured through generations of Morrisonian pupils who have benefited from two key features: we are small enough to care, yet large enough for breadth of choice. As one of the leading schools in Scotland (97% of our pupils go on to university), Morrison’s Academy has a rich history and a long tradition of successful academic teaching of boys and girls between the ages of 3 and 18. The strong teacher to pupil ratio in our classes (in Nursery, Primary and Secondary) guarantees the delivery of high quality education by a team of dedicated professionals who cherish traditional values yet are flexible enough to place them within a modern context. Pupils are encouraged to try out new activities and find one or two that they enjoy: from debating to the Duke of Edinburgh Award, from chess to curling and from kayaking to karate – there is something for every pupil at Morrison’s. We are very proud of the large numbers of pupils who take advantage of the opportunities we offer them in the areas of music, drama and sport as well as the smaller numbers of pupils who attend equally valuable clubs such as model building and photography.
Situated in Crieff, the centre of rural Perthshire, Morrison’s Academy has one of the most beautiful locations of any school in Britain and is served well by excellent transport facitlties. The stunning mountain scenery provides the backdrop for the school yet this belies its easy access to the main conurbations of Perth, Stirling, Glasgow and Edinburgh. Choosing the right school is one of the most important decisions parents make; often it is the school atmosphere and environment that helps make the final choice. The school website (morrisonsacademy.org) provides an introduction to Morrison’s Academy but to gain the best ‘feel’ for the school a visit is highly recommended. Visits can be arranged at any time and prospective parents and pupils are welcome at any of our Open Mornings. In the coming months, Morrison’s Academy will be marking an historical and educational landmark. One hundred and fifty years ago, Thomas Morrison, a stone mason from Muthill, instructed his trustees to erect an institution carrying his name to promote “the interests of mankind, having a particular regard to the education of youth and the diffusion of knowledge”. The school opened on the 1 October 1860 and has been delivering high quality education ever since. Many high profile events will take place during the twelve months of celebration, including The 150th Celebration Ball at Blair Castle, a Celebration Concert in Perth Concert Hall, 1860 Day and a Former Pupil Gathering. From 1860 to 2010, Morrison’s Academy has indeed been successful in promoting “the diffusion of knowledge” and the development of the whole child.
ST JOHNSTONE FC | McDIARMID PARK Perth, PH1 2SJ The country’s first purpose built, allseated football stadium McDiarmid Park in Perth is 20 years old this year and in that time has established itself as one of Perthshire’s leading venues for business meetings, conferences and social celebrations. Top quality food prepared by the Club’s own team of chefs together with a range of suites suitable for 2 to 100 delegates together with the edge of town location has made for an unbeatable combination which has taken the name of St Johnstone Football Club to the forefront of the venue market in central Scotland. Contact Paul Smith on 01738 459099 or see our website to find out more.
01738 459099
FROM INFANT TO YOUNG ADULT Independent school for boys and girls aged 3 to 18 Means-tested assistance with fees available Morrison’s Academy, Crieff PH7 3AN Tel: 01764 653 885
www.morrisonsacademy.org Scottish Charity Number: SC000458
www.mcdiarmidpark.co.uk
SCOTLAND’S NEW INFLUENTIAL ONLINE BUSINESS DIRECTORY
Boost your company’s online presence... For each issue of a directory of advertisers will be generated on Simply book a 1/4 page advert – or larger – and have your logo, contact details and link to your website uploaded, automatically improving your Google search results. PLUS... creating a link on YOUR website for will increase your ratings further.
CALL 01436 821438 FOR FURTHER DETAILS
Business Mentoring
Business Mentoring – The Best Kept Secret Is Out!
Business Mentoring Scotland has had a busy year in Perth and Kinross. Nearly 50 local businesses have taken part in the programme, that’s twice as many as in the previous year! Growing a successful business is difficult at the best of times and it can bring new challenges. That’s where the Business Mentoring Programme comes in, matching experienced mentors with ambitious businessmen and women to help overcome issues or barriers to growth. And here’s the secret – it’s FREE of charge! Around half the local businesses on the programme in 2009 opted for a mentor on a one to one basis, where you work on specific objectives and activities with an experienced business person who is willing to pass on their skills and knowledge. One local business owner said: “ My Mentor is a great sounding board. He can see the other side of the coin, and often puts himself in the shoes of the customer. Then I have to work out how they see it. Watching that process I’ve learned to think very differently – that’s the major change”.
Graphic Design & Print
Others chose to attend group mentoring seminars, when 8 to10 companies resolve common issues, sharing knowledge and resources under the guidance of an experienced mentor. Many topics were covered in the seminars, including online marketing, staffing issues, increasing sales, and better communications. Whatever you choose, you’ll definitely benefit from the support and experience of a successful business person. To find out more, contact kmacpherson@ businessmentoringscotland.org , phone 01592 201932 or go to www. businessmentoringscotland.co.uk Business Mentoring Scotland is a Partnership between Scottish Enterprise and Scottish Chambers of Commerce and is supported by European Funding. Provided by Katrina MacPherson, Business Email: kmacpherson@businessmentoringscotland.org Web: www.businessmentoringscotland.co.uk
Mentoring Scotland, Tel: 01592 201932,
Katrina MacPherson, Business Mentoring Scotland
Royal Northern & Clyde Yacht Club, Rhu, Helensburgh G84 8NG T: 01436 645010 E: info@dtechuk.com www.dtechuk.com
THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
|
23
FEB – APR 10
Perth & Kinross Council – supporting the local business community
T
he Business Advisory team within
Economic Development at PKC provides free, impartial advice and support to the business community across Perth & Kinross.
The services on offer include:
• One to one in depth advice and support for start-up and pre start-up businesses • One to one in depth advice and support for existing businesses to assist with stability and growth • Land and property based enquiries Advice and support is provided by a team of locally based and experienced business advisors with the resources to also tap into other areas of expertise and knowledge available through its extensive network of contacts. Paul Kyle, Economic Development Manager, stated that “we want to look after businesses in Perth & Kinross and give them the type of assistance they need. The Business Advisors spend time with every client to identify how we can best assist them and strive to offer a seamless service to their clients”. In addition to a comprehensive advisory service, guidance can also be
offered on potential funding packages available throughout the area.
AN OVERVIEW OF THE PERTHSHIRE INVESTMENT FUND BY CHAIRMAN EUAN FERGUSON The Perthshire Investment Fund (PIF) has been helping companies grow
in Perth & Kinross for over ten years using a combination of grants and loans. In the past, the fund has been generously supported by Perth & Kinross Council (PKC) and Scottish Enterprise with PKC now being the sole contributor to this scheme. The main objective of PIF is to assist with new business formation, as well as the growth and competitiveness of existing small businesses in Perth and Kinross. There is an enormous breadth of entrepreneurial spirit, enthusiasm and
commercial acumen throughout Perth & Kinross and it is in everybody’s interest that it is encouraged, supported and sustained. However, attracting funding is particularly difficult for relatively
area such as strong growth and potential employment creation. It is widely recognised that for many business start ups, they remain at an average employment nationally of 1.6 persons employed. The Perthshire Investment Fund aims to assist established firms make the leap to engage more staff. Over the years, local companies ranging from precision engineers and chocolate manufacturers to specialist glass treatments and outdoor activity providers have all benefitted greatly from the support offered through the Perthshire Investment Fund. The financial assistance offered can be directed in many different ways. For example, we have assisted companies to enhance existing websites, install new computer systems to cope with increased business activities, extend business premises and to purchase new production equipment – the list is as varied as the types companies we assist. In the current economic climate, attracting funding for growth is more
difficult. Perth and Kinross Council have recognised how important funding is for the economic future of the area and continue to generously support the Perthshire Investment Fund. Through a combination of local business people who give their time on a voluntary basis and experienced Business Advisers from Perth & Kinross Council Economic Development department, any funding request will be considered knowledgeably and carefully. Whilst we cannot guarantee to support every application, it is certainly
worth investigating whether PIF could potentially support your project.
BLAIR ATHOLL WATERMILL The Blair Atholl Water Mill and Tearoom was opened in 1977 although there
has been a mill on the site since at least 1590. It is located in the small village of Blair Atholl which is located in the heart of Highland Perthshire. It is run by Kirsty and and Rami Cohen who took over the business in 2001 from Kirsty’s parents. The mill is one of the few working water mills left in Scotland and is
open for visitors to view the oats and wheat being stone ground. The mill produces oatmeal and flour which is sold in the tearoom as well as local outlets. The wholemeal flour is also used in the bakery to produce a wide range of breads, bagels, scones and cakes. These are available to buy in the tearoom, at the Perth and Logierait Farmers Markets and by special order. The traditional tearoom attached to the mill offers light lunches made with local produce and home baking from the mill bakery. The Blair Atholl Water Mill and Tearoom has been steadily growing each
young organisations, high growth organisations as well as the more unconventional commercial organisations. Often the balance sheet is not strong enough to give comfort to investors or lenders and in many instances there are insufficient years of substantial profitability to give confidence to funders.
year but it was clear that the existing bakery hampered the chance of future expansion of the business especially as the bakery has shown the most potential for growth. The ovens and other equipment were too small and therefore time consuming for the volume of production now required. This also meant that there was no possibility of supplying more outlets which was recognised as a further opportunity of expansion.
The Business Advisory Team at Perth & Kinross Council work closely with
The project undertaken this year was the up grading of the existing bakery
their clients to bring forward detailed and viable projects to the Board. It is important that full details are provided so that Board Members can give appropriate consideration to the proposal. Often, substantial funds have been pledged by the entrepreneurs themselves but they still cannot attain the required level of funding to proceed with the necessary capital investment. Businesses who find themselves in this position can certainly benefit from applying for grant or loan funding via the Perthshire Investment Fund. Does the fund have any particular
sectors or business categories that are favoured? Apart from Retail, the simple answer is no. However, we do look to fund an enterprise where the project can demonstrate clear economic benefits to the local
and its infrastructure such as including three phase electricity. This then allowed for larger more professional equipment to be bought which in turn meant the volume of baking which could be produced increased greatly and a wider range of products could be offered. The opportunity to supply more outlets as well producing more for the tearoom and the Farmers Markets has meant more staff has been required. Rami stated that “the Perthshire Investment Fund Ltd from Perth and Kinross Council provided a Rural Enterprise Growth Grant and a Rural Business Premises Support Grant which was very important in helping to fund this project. The Economic Development Department from Perth and Kinross were very supportive with the grant application process and in offering advice and guidance on business planning. The bakery had to be upgraded in order for the business to thrive. If it had
to be solely funded from the business itself the whole process would have taken much longer and would mean a loss of opportunities. We are also now looking to develop our website to accommodate internet sales and to
Economic Development Perth and Kinross Council, 5 High St, Perth PH1 5JS Tel: 01738 477940 E-mail: economicdev@pkc.gov.uk
PERFORMANCE TO DATE • 415 businesses have received advice and assistance from our business
advisors • Our £274k assistance has attracted £821k private sector investment • 65 seminars, workshops, surgeries, exhibitions and networking events have
all been held through working with partners and stakeholders
We have financially assisted: • 43 start ups totalling £36k supporting 48 potential jobs
offer bakery classes in the New Year. This has all been made possible by the development of our bakery. The business support provided through the Business Advisory team at PKC
was invaluable particularly as this was the first time the business had made such an application for financial assistance”. Further details about the Blair Atholl Watermill can be found at www.blairathollwatermill.co.uk
AILSA CAMPBELL DESIGN After thirteen years working in the design industry in Vancouver, Canada and then in Edinburgh and Glasgow, Ailsa Campbell is now offering her graphic design expertise to businesses and organisations in Perthshire. Ailsa’s experience enables her to offer the same services as the larger city design companies but, as she doesn’t have the same overheads, at significantly less cost. After her big move in 2000 Ailsa familiarised herself with Scotland’s design industry by freelancing in a variety of design studios before becoming part of the team at Graven Images in Glasgow. At Graven Images she enjoyed working on a range of projects ranging from tea packaging to international exhibitions. In 2004, Ailsa set up business for herself. Her first project was rebranding
her husband’s bakery. “Working with my husband’s small business, Campbell’s Bakery, has given me a good understanding of how small businesses work and what their restrictions are compared to larger businesses”. Since then Ailsa has found other small businesses contacting her as they know she appreciates their unique situations. Until now Ailsa has kept her workload low due to the demands of a young
family. Ailsa states “now it is almost six years on and I am keen to offer local business my graphic design services on a larger scale. Since 2004 my business grew organically but recently I wanted to solidify my ideas with a new business plan in which I examined all the financial implications with a projected two year growth plan. Whilst I had plenty of ideas, the advisory service available through P&K enabled me to focus and plan a strategic and realistic approach. Being able to access experienced and impartial support has been invaluable and really helped me to define my direction. The funding assistance I was able to access through PKC was crucial to upgrading my studio in order to take my work to the next level. Although the application process appeared daunting at first, the advice and guidance I received was superb and made it a lot easier.” I am now well placed to offer low cost but highly effective communication
design material to help local businesses promote themselves” Further details about Ailsa Campbell Design can be found at www.ailsacampbelldesign.com
LET’S COOK OPENS ITS DOORS Bringing a brand new cookery school to the heart of the Perthshire countryside, Let’s Cook opened the doors of its converted barn and purpose built kitchen on the 1st of December 2009. Offering a range of hands on classes and courses, for all abilities, Let’s Cook is the perfect place for food lovers and aspiring cooks to take their cookery skills to the next level.
If you have a project in mind or would simply like to discuss your business ideas with a local Business Advisor, please contact Economic Development on 01738-477940 or email: economicdev@pkc.gov.uk
• 34 business grants awards totalling £203k supporting 56 jobs. • 2 loans through Perthshire Investment Fund totalling £35k and
safeguarding 6 jobs
Examples of financial assistance are: • Lets Cook Cookery School – purchase of equipment and website
development • Perthshire Fabrications – additional equipment to address new markets • Nae Limits – additional equipment and works to expand into winter season • Wilde Thyme – relocation to Cultybraggan enterprise park • Spectraglass – purchase chemical tempering machine to expand business • Green Energy Systems Ltd – Start Up Grant (IT Equipment) •Summer Harvest Ltd – Start Up Grant (labelling machine)
Concentrating on core cookery skills and exciting new flavour combinations, Sarah Mellersh of Let’s Cook is confident that its customers will come away from the cookery school brimming with new ideas and greater culinary confidence. Situated in the countryside of Perthshire they are blessed with a bountiful supply of local artisan producers and so where at all possible will incorporate all this local and regional produce into their courses. Guest chefs and specialist cooks will also be invited to teach at the school to enrich the learning experience. The Let’s Cook Cookery School will aim to attract a wide audience with
courses and classes to suit all ages, abilities and requirements. These include: • One day courses designed to teach new skills, tastes and flavour
combinations to make entertaining at home less stressful. The One Day Course Gift Voucher makes a great present to those who both love to cook and want to learn more. • The University Survival Course. A week long course designed to equip
students going off to University with the essential skills for eating well and on a budget. • The Four Week Intensive Course has been designed to provide the
essential skills and confidence needed to become a competent and relaxed cook whether it is cooking for intimate dinner parties or for large social functions. It is perfect for those who are taking a Gap Year, and have a desire to cook for others whether it is in a ski chalet in the Alps, hunting lodge in the Highlands, or in a galley out at sea, or for those who want to simply widen their culinary expertise in order to produce delicious meals for family and friends. “The contact with the Economic Development department at PKC opened
many other doors and introduced to me to other key people at the Council who have been incredibly important to Let’s Cook. I was only too pleased to be part of the Council’s initiative to run Perthshire Breakfast Courses for local Bed and Breakfast owners. Again I received considerable help and support from the Council which contributed to the success of the courses. I hope there may be a possibility of running them again. I was also delighted to receive financial assistance from the Economic
Development Department at Perth and Kinross Council. With their continued support they made the application process very painless and straightforward. The grant has been used to help fund the purchase of essential equipment for the cookery school. A cookery school wouldn’t get very far without cookers! All in all the impact of the financial support and advice from all at Perth and Kinross Council has been tremendous and has allowed Let’s Cook to proudly open its doors”. Further detail on courses and prices can be found at www.letscookscotland.co.uk
Business banking that gives your business more. A better way for your business to bank. Money isn’t the only deal clincher. We think it’s about you, your business and what suits your needs best. So, as one of our members that’s exactly what you’ll get – better solutions that are right for your business. We understand that your business is unique, which is why we want to get to know you and your business. We offer a dedicated relationship partner, a local team of experts, free use of conference and meeting facilities
nationwide at our Financial Solutions Centres, plus networking events - so we can give you the service you deserve. If you think that’s what your business needs then call Billy MacLeod, Managing Partner or Alex McDougall, Senior Partner and their team on 01738 624085 today. Always thinking beyond banking.
www.cbonline.co.uk Clydesdale Bank PLC. Registered in Scotland (No. SC001111). Registered Office: 30 St. Vincent Place, Glasgow G1 2HL. A member of the National Australia Bank Group of companies.
C6916 EXP NOV 10
Advertising Feature
Arc Steel
W
ith turnover almost doubling to £600k in 2008 and with the company on track to hit the £1 million mark in the current financial year, there is no doubt Auchterarder-based Arc Steel (previously trading as Agri-Fab Engineering) is bucking current economic trends. Founded in 2002 by entrepreneur Jamie Doak, the steel fabrication and blacksmith company has experienced rapid growth since its inception and is now involved in projects across the country. The company’s deliberate focus on a wide range of services including everything from steel-framed buildings and cladding to structural steel for the construction industry, architectural steel such as gates and railings, blacksmith services, emergency welding, security and access control systems, has resulted in Arc Steel securing a diverse range of lucrative contracts. From the outset, Jamie has acknowledged that one of the keys to success is to surround himself with professional advisers who can help guide the business through the various growth stages. “To make a success of your business you need to put in the hours and work hard, but you also need to have the right support mechanisms behind you,” explains Jamie. “The team at Business Gateway has been there from the word go, providing invaluable guidance on a whole range of business issues including business planning, marketing and training.” Indeed, training is a subject that is very close to Jamie’s heart, particularly when it comes to his team. “Arc Steel is certainly not a one-man band. Our success is down to the
efforts of the ten-strong team and over the years we have invested heavily to ensure they are trained to the highest standards.” In order to take the business on to the next level and with the help of the Business Gateway team, Scottish Enterprise and others Jamie is now planning to rebrand the business and construct new custom-built premises, which will be 100% carbon neutral. Bob Morrison from Business Gateway added: “As the company has grown, Jamie has used Business Gateway to access a variety of services, including assistance from PSYBT. We look forward to continuing to support the company as it develops over the coming years under its new name Arc Steel Limited.”
Grampian Hotel Perth
accommodation - restaurant - function room Concept to Completion We are a specialised firm of steel fabricators and erectors based in Auchterarder, but covering the whole of the UK. Our experienced team can work with any type of metal and cope with any type of project large or small. We offer a very high value service from fully qualified craftsmen who believe in our mission to provide 100% customer satisfaction at a competitive price. We have an extensive range of services, including: •Full design and build service •Steel framed buildings and cladding for the commercial, industrial and agricultural sectors •Structural steel for the construction industry •Highly experienced in stainless steel and aluminium fabrication •Bespoke architectural steel products such as gates, balustrades, balconies, staircases and more •Specialist welding and installation service (MIG, MMA & TIG) •Automation and access control systems for gates, barriers, bollards and garage doors for both domestic and commercial sectors FORMERLY AGRI-FAB ENGINEERING SERVICES Arc Steel Limited, West Third, Auchterarder, Perthshire PH3 1NJ Tel: 01764 664210•Fax: 01764 664272•info@arcsteel.co.uk•www.arcsteel.co.uk
Lunches 12 - 2.30pm High Teas 4.30 - 6.30pm Dinner 6.30 - 9pm
FUNCTION ROOM AVAILABLE Conferences, Weddings, Birthdays Retiral, Engagements
37 York Place, Perth PH2 8EH Tel: 01738 621 057 www.grampianhotel.co.uk
Senses Health & Beauty
Embrace care and pleasure, science and nature, essential richness, experience and results. Senses holistic approach merges with the most advanced research to offer the ultimate sense of beauty and well-being.
•Facial Treatments •Man space •Body Treatments •Wellbeing Treatments •Pre & post natal treatments •Finishing Touches •Nail services •Escape Packages
Front Row, Aberargie, Perth PH2 9NB • Tel: 01738 851 023 • www.senses-salon.co.uk
Crowning Place of The Kings of Scots and home of the Stone of Scone Corporate Dining and Conference Facilities available throughout the Year As the largest independent firm of Chartered Accountants and Business Advisers in Scotland, Johnston Carmichael has the specialist resources to look after your tax, accountancy, audit, corporate finance and other adviso needs. business advisory
Beautifully furnished Seminar Rooms Field Sports Over 100 acres of Parkland available for Team Building Activities VIP Receptions, product launches and exhibitions
t: 01738 552300 e: visits@scone-palace.co.uk
w: www.scone-palace.co.uk
Making the pieces fit... Contact: Euan McLeod on 01738 634 001 66 Tay Street, Perth, PH2 8RA Large Scottish Firm of the Year 2008
www.jcca.co.uk
E
Norman Salmoni Opticians
F P
• Free NHS eye examinations
Established in 1875 19 Marshall Place, Perth PH2 8AG
(01738) 441144
• Full contact lens service • In-house repair
LPED
• Full range of frames from designer to budget
PECCFD
• State of the art equipment including FREE digital retinal photography
E D F C Z P
• Same day glazing service available
F E L O P Z D
2009: Redmayne-Bentley LLP is a limited liability partnership. Registered in England and Wales. Registered No: OC344361 Registered office: Merton House, 84 Albion Street, Leeds LS1 6AG. Members of the London Stock Exchange Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Services Authority VAT number: GB 613 1397 63
159 South Street, Perth, PH2 8NY D ETel:F01738 P O627080 T E C email: info@normansalmoniopticians.co.uk L E F O D P C T www.normansalmoniopticians.co.uk F D P L T C E O
Advertising Feature
Perth Racecourse Celebrates Award!
P
erth Racecourse management are celebrating the news that the venue has been voted the Best Small Racecourse in Scotland and the North East of England by the Racecourse Club for the second time in the past three years. The award completed a highly successful year which included securing a new fixture for 2010, growing attendance figures, several award nominations and the hosting of a number of high profile events on non race days. “The award has given the whole team a boost and is very welcome as we move forward to 2010 and what promises to be another fantastic season for Perth Racecourse”. Together with the support of local peer groups the racecourse has secured an additional fixture on 21st August 2010, the first Saturday meeting in 7 years! This will be a fantastic opportunity for Scotland to celebrate the granting of the Royal Charter to Perth in 1910 on a lovely summers afternoon! Entertainment is still being confirmed but it looks set to be a great day out for everyone. Corporate Hospitality bookings throughout January have been coming in at great rate with the launch of the New Venue Brochure. It is downloadable from the website at www.perth-races.co.uk or it can be requested at the office on 01738 551 597. Over the winter season Sam and his team have invested into the private hospitality areas. The Dewhurst stand boxes and club lawn marquee have seen transformations that will greatly improve the experience of our well valued hospitality guests, but also extend their use for non race day events as training areas with complete WIFI access and plasma screens. The new developments are intended to position Perth Racecourse in the new decade with a dynamic, fresh and inspiring outlook, with facilities that are flexible to all needs. The 2010 season starts off with our well renowned Perth Festival on the 21st, 22nd & 23rd April. We look forward to welcoming familiar faces back to the track and introducing new clients to the excitement of Perth’s Hospitality experience. The 21st April will also see Perth Racecourse host it’s first Chamber Networking Race day. Launching the season, the intention is to get around 200 members from across Scotland to mix business with pleasure to help us celebrate. For more information or to book contact admin@perth-races.co.uk
Chamber News
Perthshire Chamber of Commerce presents funds raised by generous members and guests to PSYBT. Left to right: Alastair Byres (Perthshire Chamber of Commerce Director), Catherine Ward (PSYBT Regional Manager (Tayside)), Vicki Unite (CE of Perthshire Chamber of Commerce) and Paul Shields (President of Perthshire Chamber of Commerce). Photo by Amy Lees, Pink Egg Photography.
Chamber Support for PSYBT
G
enerous members and guests at Perthshire Chamber of Commerce events have succeeded in raising a huge £2395 for PSYBT. Attendees at the Chamber’s Golf Day and Annual Dinner and Business Star Awards supported The Prince’s Amy Lees, Pink Egg Photography. Scottish Youth Business Trust which promotes and supports self-employment and business creation amongst young people, thus contributing to the economic development and community regeneration of the country’s regions. Chamber President, Paul Shields, and Chamber Director, Alastair Byres, are volunteers with the organisation and work with several fledgling businesses including Amy Lees who has recently launched Pink Egg Photography who took the photograph of the presentation.
THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
29
| FEB – APR 10
D.M. Cameron & Co Ltd is a family run business established in 1982 and is currently the largest building contractor in North Perthshire employing over 30 people. We have developed the company to become a one stop shop set up. We have Builders, Joiners, Plumbers and Heating Engineers and Electricians employed by ourselves. This is a tremendous advantage as we are in control of all trades.
New Builds In the last 27 years we have built many new builds in the Perthshire area. The standard of workmanship and site management is second to none. We provide a service where our Project Manager arranges all aspects of the build. Commercial Builds In recent years we have undertaken larger commercial builds requiring greater project management. We are currently working on a new project, Edradour Distillery Bonding Warehouses. Extensions We can provide Design, Planning and Construction of your project from start to finish. Again we have all Tradesmen to carry out these works thus creating a far smoother running project. Joinery Our Company’s capabilities have risen to another level by constructing our own workshop. We now manufacture and supply our own windows, doors, finishings, stairs, cabinets and many other bespoke items.
D M Cameron & Co Ltd, Unit 2, Aldour Industrial Estate, Pitlochry PH16 5LY email: info@dmcameron.co.uk • www. dmcameron.co.uk tel: 01796 473087 • fax: 01796 474353
Bathrooms Bathrooms and shower rooms installed to any specification.
Renovations This is an area of construction in which we have excelled. Due to our rural location, we have had years of experience in renovating old farm steadings and cottages. In creating a conversion, our years of experience in the field set us apart from other construction companies Kitchens We have been fitting Kitchens of all shapes and sizes for over 20 years. We offer a design service where you don’t even have to leave your home. The designer will come to you with all their brochures and listen to your ideas before designing your new kitchen. Plumbing We are now established as one of the main Plumbing & Heating Companies in North Perthshire. We carry out works all over Perthshire and beyond. All types of Plumbing & Heating such as new installations, gas & oil, boiler servicing and solar panel installation for which we are Worcester accredited. We also specialise in bath and shower room refurbishments, underfloor heating plus maintenance and repair works. No job is too small.
gs Commercial Insurance –
Are Your Needs Being Met? It can sometimes be a daunting thought to ask another insurance broker to review your commercial insurance requirements. This needn’t be the case however and unless you seek an alternative option at some point you can never be sure that you are getting the best deal. Our commercial broking specialists can create bespoke programmes to suit your exact insurance needs. In addition to a proactive marketing approach at inception, we constantly strive to ensure that our clients’ receive the best possible deal year on year. Our expertise is wideranging and we have extensive knowledge of the property, construction, manufacturing and motor fleet sectors to name but a few. We have access to specialist markets for non-standard and unusual risks. We are committed to providing a service to our clients that is second
ng i k n i h t y k s e u l B
to none and value the concept of long-term business relationships; to this end, our clients enjoy the benefit of a dedicated account manager and claims manager who work to ensure that the whole insurance process, from initial set-up, through mid-term administration and renewal negotiations to claims settlement is ‘hassle-free’ and seamless. Our client offering has been enhanced by the creation of our new Risk Management Consultancy service. As the only regional broker in Tayside to offer this service in-house, our clients can access specialist advice on risk management, health & safety and business continuity planning. If you like the concept of dealing with a broker that takes a proactive approach to insurance and risk management and works tirelessly for you then why not give us a call? We will certainly meet your needs.
George Stubbs Insurance Services Ltd, South Inch Business Centre, Shore Road, Perth, PH2 8BW Tel: 01738 441 555 Fax: 01738 625 820 E-Mail: info@gsinsurance.co.uk
bidwells.co.uk bidwells.co.uk
Life Coaching
bidwells.co.uk
2010 Rates Revaluation 2010 Rates Revaluation 2010 Rates Revaluation
Bidwells Commercial Services: Bidwells Commercial Services: Scotland Scotland Bidwells PropertyCommercial ManagementServices: Scotland
Property Management The commercial team’s objective is to provide firstproperty class property The commercial team’s objective is to provide first class and assetand Property Management management service. Asservice. industry As leaders in commercial we asset management industry leaders inproperty, commercial property, The commercial team’s objective is to provide first class property andstrongly asset Bidwells Commercial Services: Scotland believe in a personal, prompt and professional service. We have invested heavily management leaders in commercial property, we strongly we stronglyservice. believeAsinindustry a personal, prompt and professional service. We inbelieve technology providing prompt our clients and tenants with a clear transparent service. in a personal, and professional service. We have invested heavily use the Propman software package which canpackage be can be configured Property Management Ininterms of technology we use the Propman software which can be can technology providing our clients and tenants with a clear transparent service. The commercial team’s objective is to provide first class property and asset for commercial, industrial, retail, residential block management and beInconfigured for commercial, retail,software residential block which management and terms of technology we useindustrial, the Propman package can be can management service. As industry leaders in commercial property, we strongly agricultural property portfolios. Currently our Propman system services some 60 property portfolios. Currently our Propman system services beagricultural configured for commercial, industrial, retail, residential block management and believe in a clients personal, and professional service. We have invested heavily investment andprompt around 1,800 properties. agricultural property portfolios. Currently our Propman system services some 60 some 60 investment clients and around 1,800 properties. in technology providing our clients and tenants with a clear transparent service. investment clients and around 1,800 properties. In terms of technology we use the Propman software package which can be can Landlord & Tenant Landlord & Tenant be configured for commercial, industrial, retail, residential block management and We are are highly experienced in dealing with the complexities of commercial leases, We highly experienced in dealing with the complexities of some Landlord & Tenant agricultural property portfolios. Currently our Propman services 60 and practiced achieving the most favorable forsystem landlords and tenants. We are highlyinexperienced inpracticed dealing with theterms complexities of commercial leases, commercial leases, and in achieving the most favourable investment clients and landlord around 1,800tenant properties. We provide extensive advice across all asset sectors of the and practiced in achieving theand most favorable terms for landlords and tenants. termsindustry for extensive landlords anda range tenants. We provide extensive landlord and property and offer landlord andacross tenant services including We provide landlord andoftenant advice all asset sectors of rent the Landlord &advice Tenant tenantlease across all sectors of and thewitness property industry and offer reviews, re-gearing, lease renewals, expert dispute resolution. property industry and offer a asset range of landlord tenantand services including rent We are highly experienced in dealing with the complexities of commercial leases, a rangelease of landlord andlease tenant services including rent lease reviews, re-gearing, renewals, expert witness andreviews, dispute resolution. and practiced in achieving the most favorable terms for landlords and tenants. Agency re-gearing, lease renewals, expert witness and dispute resolution. We provide extensive landlord and tenant advice across all asset sectors of the Bidwells Agencyoffer a full range of commercial agency services across all asset property industry and offer a range of landlord and tenant including rent sectors including office, retail and industrial. These includeservices leasing, Agency Bidwells offer a full range of commercial agency services across allsales assetand reviews, lease re-gearing,consultancy lease renewals, expert witness and dispute As resolution. marketing, development and consultancy forservices acquisition. sectors including retail and industrial. These include leasing, salespart andof Bidwells offer aoffice, full range of commercial agency across all allmarketing, leasing and sale instructions we have qualified Energy development consultancy and consultancy forAssessors acquisition.who As part of asset sectors including office, retail and industrial. These include Agency can an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) priorAssessors to marketing. all prepare leasing and sale instructions we have qualified Energy who Bidwells offersales a full and range of commercial agency services across and all asset leasing, development consultancy can prepare an Energymarketing, Performance Certificate (EPC) prior to marketing. sectors including for office, retail and As industrial. include sales and consultancy acquisition. part of These all leasing andleasing, sale instructions Valuations marketing, development consultancy and consultancy for acquisition. As part of Our expert team provides independent professional regulated by the Valuations we have qualified Energy Assessors who canadvice prepare an Energy all leasing and instructions we have qualified Energy Assessors who requirements ofsale the RICS Appraisal and professional Valuation Manual (the ‘Red Book’). Our expert team provides independent advice regulated by theOur Performance Certificate (EPC) Certificate prior to marketing. can prepare ansought Energy (EPC) prior (the to marketing. advice is also inPerformance obtaining market project viability requirements of the RICS Appraisal and appraisals, Valuation Manual ‘Redstudies, Book’). Our market rental buildings insurance purposes. advice is alsoand sought in obtaining market appraisals, project viability studies, Valuations Valuations market rental and buildings insurance purposes. Our expert provides independent professional advice regulated Our expert teamteam provides independent professional advice regulated by the Business Rates by theBusiness requirements of theendeavor RICS and Valuation Manual (the requirements of theRates RICSteam Appraisal andAppraisal Valuation Book’). Our Business Rates Bidwells to secureManual savings(the and‘Red reduce the rate advice is also sought in obtaining market appraisals, project viability studies, ‘Red Book’). OurRates advice isthe alsoprovision sought in aobtaining market appraisals, Bidwells Business team endeavor to secure savings and the rate liabilities for our clients through of broad range of reduce services market rental buildings insurance purposes. liabilities for and our clients through the provision of a rate broad rangeanalysing of services which include challenging assessments, securing reliefs, historical
project viability studies, market rental and buildings insurance
which include assessments, rate reliefs, information andchallenging checking rate demands onsecuring your behalf, as wellanalysing as advicehistorical purposes. Business Rates and checking rate demands yourinformation behalf, as well as 2010 advice oninformation the forthcoming 2010 Revaluation. Foron more on the Bidwells Business Rates endeavorFor to secure savings and the rate onBusiness the forthcoming 2010team Revaluation. more information on reduce the 2010 Revaluation Please Turn Over. Rates liabilities for our clients through the provision of a broad range of services Revaluation Please Turn Over. Bidwells Business Rates team endeavor to secure savings and reduce which include challenging assessments, securing rate reliefs, analysing historical the rateand liabilities for rate our clients through provision ofasa broad information checking demands on yourthe behalf, as well advice range on the forthcoming 2010 Revaluation. For more information on the 2010 of services which include challenging assessments, securing rate Revaluation Please Turn Over. reliefs, analysing historical information and checking rate demands on
Advertising Feature
your behalf, as well as advice on the forthcoming 2010 Revaluation.
Services in Scotland Services in Scotland
■ Renewable energy ■ Renewable energy
■Land Renewable ■Services & Estate management inenergy Scotland ■ Land & Estate management Land & Estate management ■■■Planning Planning
■ Renewable energy ■ Planning
■■Deer Deermanagement management
■ Land & Estate management ■ Deer management
■■Forestry Forestry consultancy consultancy ■ Planning ■ Forestry consultancy
Ruralagency agency ■■■Rural Deer management ■ Rural agency
Landlord & management ■■■Landlord &Tenant Tenant management Forestry consultancy ■ Landlord & Tenant management
Sustainable land use ■■■Sustainable Rural agency land use ■ Sustainable land use
Telecoms ■■■Telecoms Landlord & Tenant management ■ Telecoms
R&D property consultancy services ■■■R&D property Sustainable landconsultancy use ■ R&D property consultancy services services ■ Telecoms Fort William
Dearg House, North Road, Fort William, Scotland Fort William Fort William ■Carn R&D property consultancy services PH33 6PP House, t: 01397North 702433 702010Scotland Carn Dearg Dearg Road,f: 01397 Fort William, Carn House, North Road, Fort PH33 6PP t: 01397 702433 f: 01397 702010 William, Scotland PH33 6PP t:Fort 01397 702433 f: 01397 702010 William Inverness
Carn Dearg NorthBusiness Road, Fort William, Scotland Alder House,House, Cradlehall Park, Inverness, Scotland Inverness
PH33 6PP t:Cradlehall 01397 702433 f: 01397 702010 IV2 5GH t: 01463 796050 f: 01463 715604 Alder House, Business Park, Inverness, Scotland Inverness IV2 5GH t: 01463 796050 f: 01463 715604 Alder House, Cradlehall Business Park, Perth Inverness, Scotland IV2 5GH Inverness 5Perth Atholl Place,Cradlehall Perth, Scotland, PH1 5NEInverness, Scotland House, Business Park, t:Alder 01463 796050 f: 01463 715604 t: 01738 630666 f: 01738 627264 5 Atholl Perth, Scotland, PH1 5NE IV2 5GH Place, t: 01463 796050 f: 01463 715604 t: 01738 630666 f: 01738 627264
Perth Offices also at: 5Perth Atholl Place, Scotland, PH1 5NE Brentwood, Cambridge, Castle Howard, Chelmsford, Ipswich Offices also at: Perth, Atholl Place, Perth, Scotland, PH1 5NE Langley, London, Keynes, Northampton, Norwich Brentwood, Cambridge, Castle Howard, Chelmsford, Ipswich t:5t:Kings 01738 630666 f:Milton 01738 627264 Saffron 01738Walden, 630666Scotland f: 01738 627264
Kings Langley, London, Milton Keynes, Northampton, Norwich Saffron Walden, Scotland
Offices alsoat:at: Offices also Brentwood, Cambridge, Castle Howard, Chelmsford, Ipswich Brentwood, Cambridge, Castle Howard, Kings Langley, London, MiltonKings Keynes, Langley, Northampton, Norwich Chelmsford, Ipswich, Saffron Walden, Scotland London, Milton Keynes, Northampton, Norwich, Saffron Walden.
gs GS Insurance Services Ltd continues to go from strength to strength as evidenced by the recent opening of their new office in Dalgety Bay which will enable them to strengthen their presence in the Fife and Edinburgh markets. Founded in 1991 by George Stubbs, the company has grown steadily and has significant future expansion plans. Despite the current economic climate, they have demonstrated a desire to invest in people and have recently added 3 new account executives to expand their client base and have plans for further additions in the short to medium term. Additional premises are also being explored in key geographical areas. Their growth in the last 12 months has been achieved despite the difficult economic conditions throughout UK insurance industry sectors. By maintaining a focus on the needs of clients and delivering a bespoke service they have succeeded where many other brokers, particularly large aggregators, appear to be failing.
Good nutrition for improving concentration and energy levels
I
n our busy and sometimes hectic working lives, it is usually our diet that suffers to make room for those never ending errands and the general fast paced rush that the majority of business men and women seem to find themselves in. Consuming the right foods at the right points throughout the day will maintain energy levels and maximise concentration so you can find yourself at your best, regardless of what time of day it is. The first step is to try and consume protein for breakfast. This can be in the form of eggs, most meats or you can supplement with powders. Protein breakfast ensures energy release is slow and constant. Consume healthy snacks every three hours throughout the day. “Keeping the furnace burning” ensures that we have a constant supply of energy and prevents any drops or low points that might be found with the conventional 3 meals a day. Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Water aids in the process of synthesising glucose and glycogen, our main source of energy. Without adequate hydration, this process in hindered and therefore energy levels drops. Try to carry a bottle of water with you and sip regularly through the day. And the last point is to try and reduce the level of caffeine in your diet. Cutting down on caffeine is important for optimising concentration and energy levels throughout the body. If this is hard to do, try supplementing some ginseng to ease with the transition. Full article and additional advice at: www.stephen-clarke. com Provided by Rab Shields, Personal Trainer and Nutritional Advisor, SC Fitness Solutions, Tel: 07883 060108, E-mail: stephen.clarke@live.com Web: www.stephen-clarke.com
Rab Shields SC Fitness Solutions
2010 will still provide challenging trading conditions but its a challenge that GS Insurance Services is relishing. THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
|
31
FEB – APR 10
new member profiles
Legends of Sports
LEGENDS OF SPORTS North Boag Cottage Stormontfield, Perth, PH2 6BJ Tel: 01738 552399 Fax: 01738 552399 E-mail: nick@legends-of-sports.com Website: www.legends-of-sports.com Contact: Nick Oswald
Legends of Sports, based near Perth, supplies a wide range of embroidered and printed clothing to businesses, clubs and schools. Their online catalogue at www.legends-ofsports.com has over 1800 different lines of clothing including corporate wear, fleeces, outdoor jackets, hi-vis clothing, safety wear, schoolwear, t-shirts, polo shirts, hoodies etc. They also are pleased to source items as requested. They offer a friendly, efficient and competitive service and are always pleased to provide advice and samples as required. Furthermore, they are suppliers of Halbro Sportswear’s fantastic range of digitally printed kit specialising in football and rugby but also covering athletics, basketball, cricket, hockey and many other sports. The kit can be made to order in just about any design imaginable.
If you think that they can help your organisation, no matter how big or small, why not get in touch to find out more or request a quote? They would love to hear from you.
m3 Networks
m3 NETWORKS LTD Unit 7 Perth Business Centre 28 Glasgow Road, Perth, PH2 0NX Tel: 0845 519 2263 Fax 0845 519 2264 E-mail: info@m3networks.co.uk Website: www.m3networks.co.uk Contact: Mark Riddell – MD
IT Solutions that Keep Your Business Running Efficiently M3 takes time to understand your IT problems and needs, and then they design professional solutions tailored specifically to maximise efficiency and minimise downtime today and in the future. M3 Networks is a specialist IT Support Company providing expert services to businesses across Scotland. Based in central Perth, they are perfectly located for easy access to all of Scotland’s major cities. Their highly skilled staff all have extensive experience in providing IT support to businesses. Their ethos is quality over quantity, meaning that their aim is 100% customer satisfaction. They are much more interested in building long term sustainable relationships with delighted customers, than they are in simply making a short term profit.
Their services include: • IT Consultancy • Installations • Upgrades, additions and replacements to existing operation • Business expanding to multiple sites • Moving premises • IT Support • Remote Support • Telephone Support • Emergency Support If your business is dependent on IT then good quality support is vital. A network or computer breakdown can cause serious disruption to your business, costing you time and money as well as stress. Prevention is always better than cure, which is why their IT support packages are comprehensive, and ideal for businesses which depend on their network and computers operating efficiently.
Fishers Hotel Pitlochry
FISHERS HOTEL 75-79 Atholl Road Pitlochry, PH16 5BN Tel: 01796 472000 Fax: 01796 473949 E-mail: sales.fishers@crerarmgmt.com Website: www.swallowhotels.com Contact: Cathy Joss – Sales Manager
32
THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
The perfect choice for all your business and leisure needs. Well appointed bedrooms coupled with comfortable meeting rooms, bar meals served throughout the day in our lounge with a log fire burning throughout the winter months and complimentary car parking, make Fishers hotel the perfect choice when choosing a venue for your next event. The hotel boasts awarding gardens and excellent transport links makes the hotel an ideal destination for companies with connections around Perthshire and all major cities. Bedrooms are well equipped with a number of executive rooms available, all designed to accommodate your every need. If you have a need for regular travel to the area, the hotel can arrange to set up special discounted room rate for your company to access.
|
FEB – APR 10
Our meeting rooms are all bright and spacious, catering from 4 – 150 delegates and there are competitive day and residential packages available and can be tailored to your events requirements. Team building and outdoor activities can be easily arranged in the local area should you wish to reward or incentivise your team. Fishers hotels kingfishers bar is one of the towns up and coming local bars which serves food throughout the day and boast an excellent variety of live music on several evenings each week. Fishers hotel is the heart of the community and is involved in many local events and always extend a warm welcome to one and all. As a new member, Fishers hotel will be participating in the Members Discount Scheme! So look out for some great rates.
new member profiles
Yourstory-biographies
YOURSTORY-BIOGRAPHIES.CO.UK 70 Glasgow Road, Perth, PH2 0PG Tel: 01738 626234 E-mail: lovina.roe@blueyonder.co.uk Website: www.yourstory-biographies.co.uk Contact: Lovina Roe
Lovina Roe was inspired to start writing biographies when she persuaded a veteran of the 51st Highland Division who was captured at St. Valery with an uncle of hers, to tell her his story. It was both inspirational and a turning point in her life. Writing it sometimes she laughed, sometimes she cried but she realised that, like so many so called “ordinary” men and women, this old man had a stunning story to tell but didn’t realise the treasure that he held inside his head. Lovina decided to become the teller of their tales. She is well equipped to write stories, having trained as a journalist by D. C. Thomson and later achieved an MA at Edinburgh University, followed by 23 years of teaching. That’s just the technical stuff! What really counts, actually, is that she is interested in people and in helping them to express their thoughts and feelings. It may be a cliché but it’s true: everybody has a story inside them: a love story, a life story, “meet the family”
for new babies. Even companies have birthdays and Lovina can write their histories, too. The biographies are sensitively written, beautifully presented treasure troves of memories – heirlooms for future generations. She writes much shorter stories, too: about family pets, beloved houses, to explain to children why that important person, who may have died or is ill, is unable to attend a family celebration. It all about capturing and preserving important memories.
Interface
INTERFACE – THE KNOWLEDGE CONNECTION FOR BUSINESS Edinburgh Research & Innovation 1 – 7 Roxburgh Street Edinburgh, EH8 9TA Tel: 0131 651 4318 Fax: 0131 651 4793 Contact: Donna Kuderenko
Scotland has a long-standing reputation as an innovative nation. The innovative solutions required to enable companies to maintain a competitive-edge, particularly in a tougher market, can often be found through collaboration with an academic partner. This is where Interface can help. Interface – The knowledge connection for business offers a free service for companies across Scotland. Backed by the Scottish Funding Council, the organisation offers a central point of access for industry to Scotland’s research base through its unique matchmaking service. There is a wealth of first-class technology, skills and research facilities available within Scotland’s universities and research institutes. With established links to thousands of worldclass leading experts, Interface finds and introduces companies to the perfect academic partner. Interface overcomes the challenges facing companies in understanding what is available, or
who to contact in academia for R&D or expertise capabilities, by matching relevant expertise to specific business requirements. Collaborating with academic partners brings significant business benefits: • Develop innovative new products, services and processes • Improve performance using technological advances • Increase competitive advantage in key markets • Enhance profitability in existing and new markets Interface is here to help make the right connections for businesses.
Perthshire Property Services
PERTHSHIRE PROPERTY SERVICES First Floor, 48 Scott Street Perth, PH1 5EH Tel: 01738 561409 Fax: 01738 567565 E-mail: info@perthshireps.co.uk Website: www.perthshireps.co.uk Contact: Jill Scott
Perthshire Property Services are established letting agents in the Perthshire area. The objectives of the business are to offer the landlord and the tenant the highest quality of service at the best price available. Their offices are situated in a strategic location to provide them with a sound base from which to serve the community. They have extensive experience in the letting sector. The company believes in offering a quality service unmatched by other agents. Their services are designed to put the landlord first and to ensure the successful management of your property. They provide an exceptional personal and professional service at a very competitive price. As they are specialists, they6 know how to manage property for optimum performance, whilst ensuring smooth running tenancies, and compliance with the various landlord/tenant laws. Their reputation as one of the leading letting agents has been built on excellent customer service and attention to detail – with many
referrals and recommendations they understand the great importance of excellent service – from start to finish. They will combine their local expertise and latest market intelligence information with the huge marketing power of the internet to find the right tenant/property fast! By investing in specialised training within this very important, and often neglected part of property management, they are pleased to be able to bring this added benefit to their clients. As residential lettings specialists they focus solely on lettings and management of private landlord’s properties. At Perthshire Property Services their service does not stop when a new tenancy starts. They are 100% dedicated to lettings.
THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
|
33
FEB – APR 10
new member profiles
Fraktul
FRAKTUL Marketing Consultants 4 Viewlands Terrace Perth, PH1 1BN Tel: 07855 803699 E-mail: Stephen@fraktul.co.uk www.fraktul.co.uk Contact: Stephen Gorton
According to Stephen Gorton, “Fraktul helps its clients win more business, it’s as simple as that”. Formed in 2009, Fraktul provides specialist marketing support and services for small businesses and large organisations; helping them to improve their visibility to potential clients. With substantial experience to draw on, Fraktul offers both objective and analytical advice and creative, client focussed proposals. Fraktul can deliver a range of no-nonsense support, including branding, business development, digital media / website, proposals, promotion, PR / advertising and strategy. Stephen, a Chartered Marketer, who has a background in design and construction, says “I started Fraktul after working with a range of businesses. Right now, we have just delivered branding, website and other support material for a start-up environmental consultancy. We are also working with established local businesses,
including a specialist baker, an organisational change consultant and a consulting engineer to generate new business for them.” Based in Perth, Fraktul can easily access the main commercial centres across Scotland and on-line collaboration means that a cost-effective service can be provided across the UK. Asked, why Fraktul? Stephen explained, “Fraktul is named after fractal mathematics, which govern how many wonderful natural objects are formed, like plant structures or lightning; where patterns repeat from small to large scale. We believe that if you approach marketing with this logic, building on a theme, you will end up with an elegant and very effective result. The spelling of Fraktul has a Nordic tone, as we believe in the Scandinavian design principle of aesthetic and functional performance”.
Opus One Restaurant A Symphony…of flavours A Concert…of fine food, wine and ambience A Magnum Opus…of culinary skill
OPUS ONE RESTAURANT 22 – 30 County Place, Perth, PH2 8EE Tel: 01738 623355 Fax 01738 628969 E-mail: enquiries@newcountyhotel.com Website: http:www.newcountyhotel.com Contact: Mr Garry Brockie – Restaurant Manager
Opus One offers the finest ingredients from Perthshire’s larder, creatively prepared and executed with meticulous precision and flair by their head chef Ryan Young – silver award winner in the Scottish Chef of the Year Awards. Situated in the refurbished New County Hotel, Opus One Restaurant has recently retained its sought after 2 Rosette award from the AA – testimony to the hard work of their team and has been shortlisted in several categories at the forthcoming Scottish Restaurant Awards and the Scottish Hotel Awards. Opus One Restaurant is open for lunch and dinner Tues – Sat (12 – 2 & 6:30 – 9).
The hotel itself makes the ideal conference venue, central to Perth and only a short distance from Perth Train Station, conferences from 2 – 80 delegates, private dining and corporate entertainment can be arranged to suit your needs.
Black Watch Museum Trust The Black Watch H E R I TA G E A P P E A L
BLACK WATCH MUSEUM TRUST Museum / Trust Balhousie Castle Hay Street, Perth, PH1 5HR Tel: 01738 638152 E-mail: info@theblackwatch.co.uk Website: www.theblackwatch.co.uk Contact: Alfie Iannetta
34
THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
The Black Watch Museum Trust is housed in the dramatic and historic Balhousie Castle. The Castle is set in its own beautiful gardens and grounds, which are home to a number of monuments and tributes to Black Watch men. It is ideally situated close to the centre of Perth, beside the pleasant parkland walks of the North Inch on the banks of The River Tay. The Castle incorporates the Black Watch Museum, Home Headquarters to the Black Watch Battalion, The Black Watch Association and The Black Watch shop. The Museum is laid our chronologically through ten rooms within the Castle. These display an amazing variety of artefacts illustrating the history of the Regiment as well as a fine collection of paintings and photography. Supplemented by a number of audiovisual installations the overall experience is highly evocative and brings to life the experience of serving in the Black Watch from Fontenoy to Fallujah and beyond.
|
FEB – APR 10
The Black Watch Heritage Appeal has been running for over 18 months and since purchasing the Castle from the MOD is well on its way to raising the necessary funds to further develop the Castle and Museum into a state of the art Visitor Attraction encompassing a new cafe, shop and educational space. The person at the helm of the Trust’s ambitious plans is their CEO Alfie Iannetta. Alfie was previously a Director at Waterford Wedgwood and a part owner of Dartington Crystal and has held a number of senior commercial roles over the last 20 years.
MEMBER TO MEMBER DISCOUNTS In addition to the many benefits of being a member of Perthshire Chamber of Commerce is the introduction of our Member to Member discounts. These exclusive offers are offered by members to their fellow members and we’re delighted at the number of offers already on show on the Member Only Discounts page of our website. If you are a member and wish to extend a discount to the rest of the membership please contact the Chamber office on 01738 450401 or email events@perthshirechabmer.co.uk. Those taking part in this initiative are shown here and their full details can be found on our website on the Member Only Discounts menu option.
Abade Self Catering Holidays
10% discount - to be deducted from any full price for The Chapel House or The Tower House
Alex Cairncross Silver Jewellery
10% discount to Chamber Members.
Baby Scan Studio Perth Ltd.
Dr Sandy Christie wishes to offer his fellow members and their family and friends a 10% discount.
Budget Car and Van Rental
Special business rates available for Chamber members.
Compass Business Services Ltd
10% off the labour cost of any IT work undertaken.
Crerar Scotlands Hotel
£19.50 per person Day Delegate Rate £69.50 per person Residential Delegate Rate Available from February - April Subject to availability and new bookings only. Bookers will receive double points on our new loyalty scheme.
Craigie Hill Golf Club
Midweek Round: £15 (£7 discount) Weekend Round: £20 (also £7 discount).
CREATIVE ORANGE
Would like to offer their fellow Perthshire Chamber of Commerce members a 25% reduction off regular rates for all new creative work undertaken, such as; logo creation, graphic design, design for print and web design.
DWK Office Solutions
Print Audit DWK will assess your current costs and look to make savings. Free Champagne with every successful print audit.
Express by Holiday Inn – Perth 3 nights for the price of 2 from £60 per room subject to availability.
10% off all giftware in the Enerfoil Magnum Showroom @ Aberfeldy Magnum Heating Ltd.
Marshall’s Garden Machinery
10% discount off RRP for all garden equipment sales.
McLeod the Glaziers
10% discount on all products and services from McLeod Glaziers.
New County Hotel & Opus One Restaurant
10% discount Tuesday – Friday evenings 18.30 – 21.00 plus 10% discount Tuesday – Saturday lunch 12.00 – 14.00
Park Plumbing & Heating
Free upgrade from an Experience Tour to a Malt Tasting tour when members book in advance.
Visit the brand new Bathroom & Tile Showroom and receive a 10% discount on the supply of Showrrom Products. Bring your business card to obtain discount.
G Slater Properties
Perth Racecourse
10% discount on stay at 5* Visit Scotland, 2 bedroom flat at 25 Saxe Coburgh Place Edinburgh Something Special Flowers Free consultation with a Designer Florist at your place of business.
Introductory offer for Chamber members who have NOT previously used the private facilities at Perth Racecourse: 10% discount on advertised price in hospitality packages within website.
Gillies & Mackay Ltd
Perthshire P.A.T Services
The Famous Grouse Experience
Would like to offer a 5% discount on buildings ( sheds, summerhouses, garden offices, playhouses etc) to Chamber members.
Grainger Public Relations
Free introductory meeting. 20% off a day’s rate for first PR project undertaken.
Keepsafe Storage
30% discount on usual rate.
m3 Networks Ltd
Free IT Audit together with 1 month free IT Support (subject to a minimum 6 month contract).
Macrae and Dick
Special business rates available for Perthshire Chamber members on Budget Car and Van Rental .
Magnum Heating
Discount 1 20% off all Magnum Electric Underfloor Heating products when purchased from Magnum Heating Ltd. Discount 2
Would like to offer an introductory discount of 10% to all Chamber members who use Perthshire PAT Services for their portable appliance testing.
Professional Mortgage Advisers Ltd Fee of £250 to members (set fee is currently £295).
Salutation Hotel
10% discount to chamber members off any function, Conference or Event at the Hotel. If the event is for more than 100 people accommodation for the organiser and their partner including full Scottish Breakfast is free of charge on the night of the event
Steven Bonthrone, Personal Trainer Personal Training session: £35 for one hour instead of £40.The session will include free nutritional advice and lifestyle guidance.
STV
Ask for special rates on production costs etc
THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
|
35
FEB – APR 10
The Big INTERVIEW
R
etired Blairgowrie cavalry officer Brigadier Mel Jameson CBE holds one of the most important royal appointments in Scotland. But what exactly does the Lord Lieutenant of Perth and Kinross do? And what career path brought the charismatic cavalryman to his latest post? Journalist Maureen Young finds out more about the man and his Sovereign duties.
Photo: Louis Flood
Photo: Press Association
You were appointed Lord Lieutenant of Perth and Kinross in 2007 but what exactly is a Lord Lieutenant? I am basically Her Majesty’s permanent representative in the county of Perth and Kinross. Appointed by the Sovereign, the post dates back to Henry the Eighth when we were responsible for maintaining law and order and organising defence forces for the local area. The role was extremely powerful in those days and, while we no longer rule the roost, we do take a keen interest in the wellbeing of our voluntary forces, uniformed youth organisations, emergency services and the voluntary sector on behalf of The Queen. I also take an interest in business and industrial life within the county – especially businesses and charities which are supported and encouraged by Royal trusts or which have a Royal as their patron. A key part of my duties is the organising of royal visits and attending to our VVIPs throughout their stay. We had three such visits last year which is very good for a district of 145,000 people and I look forward to encouraging and hosting as many visits as possible in the future. I can also be called upon to make presentations of honours and awards on behalf of The Queen. The role of Lord Lieutenant is voluntary and therefore unsalaried but it is a great honour to be asked. It is normally held by someone retired and over 60 and you have to retire from the duty at 75 – so at 65 I’ve a few more years of service left in me yet. I have a team of 12 deputy Lieutenants who will deputise for me whenever required which helps to cope with a demanding diary.
36
THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
|
FEB – APR 10
How does it feel for a local boy to achieve such status? I was born at the family’s 300 acre estate near Blairgowrie – in the bedroom I now sleep in actually – and of all the dreams and aspirations I held, I could never have imagined being granted the honour of becoming Lord Lieutenant of my home county one day. Was a life in uniform always mapped out for you? I never exceeded in academia – but I had a first class education at Glenalmond. I did consider farming and my mother suggested politics which I don’t think I would have been any good at at all. Funnily enough, all my working life I have had to take an apolitical stance – but I’ve always maintained a keen interest in politics and world affairs. As a young man I wanted travel and adventure and the military was in my blood with a long line of distinguished Navy and Army officers contributing to my career choice. The obvious choice was to join up and I was lucky to be selected for the then Royal Scots Greys – an armoured regiment. It seemed to me that if one had to go to war it would be preferable to go in a tank! Did the equitation side of things also appeal? Oh absolutely. Being a cavalry officer was ideal for someone who enjoys riding and being around horses. It also gave me a chance to pursue my love of polo. The Royal Scots Dragoon Guards team was one of the first to play at Scone Palace and we also got to compete all over the world including Cyprus, Germany, at Hitler’s Olympic stadium – the Maifeld – in Berlin, USA and Jordan.
Can we draw comparisons between life as a senior Army officer and a senior business executive? Absolutely. As a Commanding Officer – a post I held between 1986 and 1988 – you are in charge of a huge business enterprise with numerous and varied departments, several hundred personnel with ranging skills and abilities, four squadrons of tanks and a fleet of other military vehicles, vastly expensive armament, weapons and ammunition, a strict budget and demanding targets. As in civvy street, the buck stops with the boss. You have to make sure it’s the very best it can be. A Commanding Officer has also to ensure his team is physically and psychologically capable of the role demanded of them and that every man and piece of machinery is fit for purpose. Probably the main difference is that the military operates under a very strict code of discipline which encourages order, efficiency and success. But it never does to think of yourself as some sort of despot or superior being. We had a thing called Commanding Officer’s Orders which is like a small court to deal with soldiers who have stepped out of line. Each hearing would begin with a piper playing “A Man’s A Man For A’ That” – perfect way to remind the Commanding Officer that we’re all human, we all have our foibles and genuine mistakes can happen. It was a great leveller. On promotion to Brigadier you came home to Perthshire to take over command of 51 Highland Brigade. Yes, from 1994 to ’96 I had that very great honour. Based at Perth, I found myself in charge of the successor to the famous and renowned 51st Highland Division. My remit stretched from the central belt to Shetland and the Western Isles and it was one of the most interesting and rewarding postings of my career. Too many tales to mention – I’ll have to write a book! But another career change was waiting in the wings? Yes – one I would never have anticipated in a million years. It was December 1994 when I was summoned by the General to Army HQ in Edinburgh. Thinking war had been declared because of the urgency of the summons, I went prepared for whatever conflict lay ahead. He told me he wanted me to produce the Edinburgh Military Tattoo for 1995. Somewhat shocked – as you can imagine – I asked: “What about my Brigade?”. “Oh I’m sure you’ll manage” was his reply. So, for two years I did both roles. It was exhausting and far from ideal so at the end of 1996 I took the decision to leave the Army and take up the offer of becoming Chief Executive and producer the following year.
Photo: Perthshire Advertiser
Your success in that role is well documented. You changed the face of the Tattoo and made it the greatest show on earth, with an annual turnover of around £6 million. But it wasn’t just your business leadership skills that came into play for such a success? No, I think my knowledge and love of music helped me enormously. I adore massed pipes and drums and combined bands and that’s the “sound of the Tattoo” now. I also set out to source the most exciting and dynamic military music and dance performers from across the world and bring them to Edinburgh Castle esplanade. I suppose I believed that if something appealed to one who was easily bored like me then it would strike a cord with a wider audience. We really moved the acts fast and it seemed to work.. On a business front, the Tattoo won the Queen’s Award For Business which recognised these successes and its continuing support of charity through all profits made. You’re a piper yourself aren’t you? Yes, I learned to play when I was seven-years-old and was part of the Pipes and Drums at Glenalmond. I love pipe music and was delighted to be made band President with the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards as a young officer in the early 70s. Didn’t that lead to your first taste of showbiz? Well it certainly made the regiment famous and catapulted a simple tune into the hearts of people around the world. It was in 1971 that we were asked to record an album to commemorate an event in our regiment. Rather daringly we included two new tunes that the combined bands had been playing – Going Home and Amazing Grace. Everyone enjoyed it so much that I told RCA we had something special on our hands and that we should send it to the BBC. I was told we would be lucky to sell 2000 and should be happy at that. But the record was duly handed in to the BBC in 1972 and from one play on radio we got 30,000 advance orders. By the end of the year sales soared to over a million and the recording was Number 1 in eight different countries. We had a mega-hit on our hands and the sales kept soaring. Amazing Grace took the world by storm and we were asked to appear on Top Of The Pops. I was rather taken aback when – being dressed in full uniform – I was greeted by Jimmy Saville with a kiss on the cheek. Do you miss being involved with the Tattoo? Yes, but it was time to go. When I retired after 12 years at the helm, I was also Regimental Colonel of the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards – a very demanding post I held for six years until retiring in 2009 – so I was hardly bored. I also found I was in great demand as a consultant, adviser or producer for mini tattoos or similar events both in the UK and abroad and this has allowed me to retain that musical and production involvement which I love. Among those I am currently involved with are the Basel Tattoo in Switzerland, the Windsor Castle Royal Tattoo and a Heroes Tattoo to be staged at the Oval cricket ground later this year in support of Help For Heroes.
Photo: Mark Owens, Army
THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
37
| FEB – APR 10
King James VI Business Centre Friarton Road, Perth
Set in a stunning location on the banks of the River Tay, King James VI Business Centre offers serviced office accommodation suitable for 1 person to 16 people each office is tastefully decorated with access to kitchens all fully fitted. Features • Manned reception Monday to Friday 8.30 to 5.00pm
• Free parking • 24 / 7 access • All inclusive monthly rate
Mountains of Adventure Skiing and Snowboarding Equipment Hire and Servicing Restaurants and Shop
For all enquiries please do not hesitate to contact our sales team
Glenshee Ski Centre Cairnwell, Braemar Aberdeenshire, AB35 5XU PHONE: (013397) 41320 FAX: (013397) 41665 E-mail us: info@ski-glenshee.co.uk www.ski-glenshee.co.uk
E-mail: enquiries@castlecroft.com Website: www.castlecroft.com Telephone: 01738 472000
Future Focus Scotland Ltd improving business performance We provide an extensive range of services to businesses and individuals. These include:
Feedback from clients: “We were impressed with (Moira’s) ability to get to grips with a complex situation in a short space of time, and found her tactful and discreet in her dealings with staff and Board members. Many of the recommendations she made were acted upon within a few months of receiving her report.” Chair - Community organisation, Surrey “Thank you. A very professional piece of work.” Chairman - UK mobility organisation. “Having someone like you with the right expertise is a huge weight off my mind.” MD - Office Equipment supplier.
•Personnel and Employment Issues •Business Mentoring and Coaching •Development and Evaluation projects Moira Laws MA MSc Chartered FCIPD Director Future Focus Scotland Ltd 14 Hatton Place Luncarty Perth PH1 3UY Telephone: (01738) 827797 Mobile: 07718419259
We focus on providing practical solutions. Our clients range from small, owner-managed businesses to larger, corporate organisations. We also work with the not-for-profit sector and with grant-making trusts and foundations. Our aim is to provide a quality, personalised service to identify and resolve issues which are getting in the way of personal and organisational performance.
www.futurefocusscotland.co.uk
Motor nSeales Sco
Your Local One Stop Garage Open 7 Days - 8am to 7pm
ALL MAKES AND MODELS REPAIRED • • • • • • • •
B r akes S u spen sio n B atter ies S er v icin g Ty r es E x hausts Weldin g MO T P r ep
Full Service from £80.00
Annual Service from £29.00
Tyres
from £19.99
Pop in to book or phone 01738 553372 Quality Low Mileage Car Sales Free Warranty and Road Tax - Finance Available All prices are subject to VAT
114 Perth Road, Scone PH2 6JL
BOB IS BACK! BOB’S GOLF
SPECIAL RELAUNCH OFFERS YOUR UNCLE COMING SOON...
NEW STOCK
• CLUBS • BALLS • CLOTHING
• ACCESORIES • EXPERT ADVICE
ARRIVING DAILY
• LAUNCH MONITORS
in association with
SUPERSTORE OPENING AT Springfield Road, Aberdeen INVERALMOND RETAIL PARK Tel: 01224 313880 EARLY 2010.
RELAUNCHED STORE MAKING UNDER NEWYOUR MANAGEMENT
BEST BETTER 12x2 Evening Express 9/7
FOOD & DRINK
Famously Good Food Ideas! Steven Craik, award-winning executive chef for The Famous Grouse Experience since 1999 is probably best known for his unique food concept called Fasan Ur (or new fashion in dining) where food and whisky are integrated into a tasting menu. A meal intrinsically Scottish but international in feel, Steven has a superb ability to match the individual characteristics found in The Famous Grouse with the finest Scottish ingredients. Here, Steven serves up some tasty suggestions to get us through these Winter months! “With the winter chill still lingering and the persistent dark nights, this time of year is all about comforting, filling food. The start of the year offers a hearty larder in Scotland, with root vegetables offering excellent earthy ingredients. Cock-a-leekie soup is ideal for warming your insides. You can also make a large batch and then pop it in the freezer for when you need a quick, easy lunch. This beef recipe is quick and full of flavour, ideal for dinner or a substantial Sunday lunch. Fillet of beef offers superior quality, flavour, taste, succulence and unbeatable eating and thus – not surprisingly – it is known as the premium beef cut. It should be well marbled with fine threads of fat interwoven through the lean. This ensures tenderness when cooked and brings out flavour and succulence. Cranachan is a real Scottish favourite; a real sweet treat that is quick and easy to make. Using a local honey is also a nice way to personalise this dessert.”
40
THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
|
FEB – APR 10
Cockaleekie Soup Ingredients 1 whole chicken, about 4lb, including legs and wings 1lb leeks (about 12) cleaned and cut into 1-inch pieces 4 pints stock or water 1oz long grained rice 4oz cooked, stoned prunes One teaspoon brown sugar, salt and pepper Garni of bay leaf, parsley, thyme 3 chopped rashers of streaky bacon
Put the fowl and bacon in a large saucepan and cover with water. Bring to the boil and remove any scum. Add three-quarters of the leeks, (green as well as white sections), herbs (tied together in a bundle), salt and pepper and return to the boil. Simmer gently for 2-3 hours, adding more water if necessary. Remove the bird. cut the meat into small pieces and add them back to the soup . Add the rice and drained prunes and the remaining leeks and simmer for another 30 minutes. Check for flavour and serve with a little chopped parsley.
Castle Mey Steak topped with Smoked Cheese and Caper Crust
Served with char grilled sweet potato and celeriac relish 2 x 6-8oz Fillet Steak (Castle Mey)
Crust: 1 cup of bread crumbs, handful of chopped parsley,100g of grated smoked cheddar,1 clove of garlic, handful of capers Sweet potato: 1 peeled sweet potato cut in 2cm disks coated in Cajun spice and honey Celeriac relish: ¼
celeriac peeled and grated, 100ml double cream, 1tsp horseradish, 1tsp grated ginger, 1 clove garlic
Method Steaks: Season steaks well and pan sear on both sides for 2 min
Crust: place
all ingredients in food processor apart from capers blitz till binding, place capers on steak and crumble crust over steak cook for 5min in oven at 200C until medium
Sweet Potato: Heat pan and lightly drizzle with olive oil and char-grill potatoes for 1min either side then place in oven for 4 minutes or untill soft Celeriac Relish: In a heavy based pan sweat off celeriac with some butter, add the ginger and garlic to the mix, cool till softened ,add cream and cook till cream thickens and binds together add horseradish at last minute and serve. To serve: place sweet potato on the plate top with celeriac then finish off with steak To accompany this dish we recommend The Black Grouse. At first taste you’ll be surprised by the rich flavorsome smokey whisky influence of the peated malt whiskies. Then you’ll experience the trademark smoothness of The Famous Grouse.
Cranachan Ingredients: 1 Punnet of Raspberries 2 tsp of Honey 2 oz oatmeal 2 measures of The Famous Grouse 130ml Double Cream
Method: Soak your raspberries in the whisky. Toast the oatmeal in a frying pan on a high heat until lightly brown. Whisk the cream into a soft consistency and mix in the oatmeal adding in the honey last minute. Serve in tall glasses or nice open bowl. Classic way of making this dish is to fold all the ingredients together and scatter with oatmeal on top but we prefer to layer with raspberries and cream to give some more colour to the dish We recommend you serve this with The Crimson Crush Cocktail; The Famous Grouse Finest whisky shaken with Plymouth Damson, runny honey, lemon, gomme syrup, Raspberry Bols topped with ginger beer and served with crushed ice and a sprig of mint.
THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
|
41
FEB – APR 10
lifestyle
W
ant to improve company efficiency?
Coaching Certifi cate CoachingSkills Skills Certificate
Boardroom Charm
28th September and 26th October
9th and 23rd February
Mediation Skills Training
Mediation Skills 15th and 22nd March 15th and 23rd March
Training
for all your training, mediation and rowcoaching an for allneeds your training, mediation
and coaching needs
Tired and exhausted after a “flying” visit to the International Spring Fair in Birmingham, I was invigorated by all the new styles and designs that are available within the jewellery trade from modern costume jewellery and pearls to the most exquisite gems and stylish silver gifts. Visiting such a trade fair is the ideal way to keep up-to-date with what’s in fashion before it hits our shops. I was particularly interested to see the huge competition in the “charm” market. Modern charm jewellery is an exciting new take on this traditional popular favourite, offering the wearer the opportunity to create a unique piece of jewellery. Bracelets and necklaces can be built to reflect the character and preferences of the wearer and unlike yesteryear, the current styles have interchangeable charms that do not have to be soldered onto the bracelet. Ladies tend to prefer gold and silver bracelets and bangles. The extensive selection of charms includes colourful enamel and glass or set with gemstones including diamonds, rubies and cubic zirconium. Many represent events and interests such as prams, bells, birthstones, hearts, L-plates, toys and animals while others are quirky modern-day articles such as: mobile phone, stilettos, popcorn and cupcakes. Charm jewellery is increasingly popular with men, with black silicon and leather bracelets becoming the “musthave” gent’s fashion accessory. Popular charms include the football, boxing glove, bulldog, buddha, pirate and Saltire. With such a variety of charms available, you can guarantee that you will create your very own unique piece of personal jewellery! What does your jewellery say about you? Provided by Alex Cairncross, Email: alex@alexcairncross.co.uk Tel: 07771 566429 Web: www.turthcharmjewellery.com
Advertising Feature
rowan-consultancy.co.uk rowan-consultancy.co.uk
01738 562 005 01738 562 005
Inspiring Courses for the New Year!
T
he Chamber held a popular seminar on Workplace Mediation, during Scottish Mediation Week in November. Several non-Chamber members paid to attend, whilst Chamber members enjoyed an informative seminar and a complimentary buffet lunch free of charge. Rowan Consultancy and other members of the Scottish Mediation Network demonstrated a “live” workplace mediation, featuring two feisty characters at loggerheads, who gradually grudgingly began to appreciate the situation from the other person’s point of view, thanks to the skills of the workplace mediator, and came up with mutually beneficial solutions. Chamber members gave enthusiastic feedback on this seminar, so the Chamber are building on this success by asking Rowan Consultancy to provide two more training events in Spring 2010. The Coaching Skills Certificate, carrying 5 credits at SCQF Level 9 awarded by Napier University runs in September and October. The 2-day Mediation Skills course runs in March Both these courses have a 5% discount for Chamber members. See www.rowan-consultancy.co.uk for details or contact events@perthshirechamber.co.uk to book a place.
The Perth Osteopathic and Acupuncture Clinic Helen Patton (B.Ost.) Registered Osteopath Kirsten Liddell BSc(Hons) MBAcC Registered Acupuncturist
01738 622864
Alex Cairncross Truth Charm Jewellery
42
THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
30 Kinnoull Causeway Perth PH2 8HQ
|
FEB – APR 10
Boarding & Day Boys & Girls aged 9 to 18
Forgandenny Perthshire PH2 9EG. t: 01738 812 546
e: admissions@strathallan.co.uk
www.strathallan.co.uk Strathallan is a Scottish Charity dedicated to education. Charity number SC008903
C L A R K THOMSON
INSURANCE BROKERS LTD
CHARTERED INSURANCE BROKERS 24 Whitefriars Street, Perth PH1 1PP Jean Johnston, Alisdair Burke and the Armoury team would like to offer you a warm welcome to The Old Armoury Restaurant in Pitlochry , one of Perthshires favourite restaurants. During the summer months our garden area is very popular with diners who like to sit outside and relax over lunch or afternoon teas. Inside the Restaurant our Pre Theatre Suppers and Fine A La Carte dining are enhanced with open log fires and candles to create a relaxed romantic ambience. The Old Armoury, Armoury Road, Pitlochry, PH16 5AP Tel: 01796 474281 Fax: 01796 473157 Email: info@theoldarmouryrestaurant.com
Tel: 01738 639777 Fax: 01738 638066 Find out more on our website:
www.clarkthomson.co.uk Clark Thomson Insurance Brokers Ltd are authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority (FSA)
• Construction Cost Consultants • CDM Co-ordinators 2 King James Place, Perth Tel: 01738 625619 visit our website at
www.raogg.com
Membership benefits The Chamber is a non-party-political voluntary 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 is managed by a Board of fifteen business people elected from among the membership. Day-to-day operations are managed by the Chief Executive, Vicki Unite, and Administrative Assistant, Judy Hickman, based at the Chamber’s office at the Algo Business Centre, Glenearn Road, Perth, PH2 0NJ. Read on for further details on membership benefits. The Chamber can be contacted by telephone on 01738 450401, by fax on 01738 450402 or by email: info@perthshirechamber.co.uk
Chamber Services
Gateway and Chamber members. This programme has been specially created to reflect our members’ needs and requests.
Chamber Events We run a wide range of events to appeal to all our members. Events include monthly networking breakfasts, regular lunches and evening visits which are held in Perth and also the surrounding area of Perthshire and Kinross. Business support is provided via free mentoring seminars and a bespoke training programme.
Chamber Communication
Monthly Lunch/High Tea Programme Series of events enabling networking alongside the sharing of business expertise and knowledge sharing with or without a speaker. Monthly Networking Breakfasts Very successful programme of breakfasts to facilitate effective, structured networking without impacting on your working day.
Annual events include: Success Through Engagement Conference 2010, 20th April, Perth Concert Hall Several of the country’s leading motivational speakers will gather in Perth this spring for the Perthshire Chamber of Commerce – Success Through Engagement Conference 2010. Leading names from the worlds of business and politics will feature in the day-long conference. Designed to bolster business thinking during difficult times, inspire new initiatives and motivate business co-operation, the day’s programme sees some of the key drivers in these sectors take to the platform – including one of the UK’s leading motivational speakers, Sewells chairman Dr William Holden. Perthshire Chamber members are entitled to one complimentary place at the conference but places must be booked in advance. More info on pages 8 & 9. “Perthshire On A Plate” – Expo 2010 – Friday 2nd & Saturday 3rd July 2010, Perth Concert Hall This year marks the 800th anniversary of Perth city and Perthshire Chamber of Commerce will be playing a key role in the year-long celebrations. Perthshire’s abundance of natural produce and culinary talent will come under the spotlight this summer as Perthshire Chamber of Commerce hosts a brand new event for the food lover’s calendar. TV celebrity chef and “King of the Jungle” Gino D’Acampo, will guest throughout the day with demonstrations, book signings and general chat in his first visit to the Fair City. Leading local talent, exhibitors, traders and experts are also being lined up to cook up a storm for what promises to be one of the highlights of perth’s 800th anniversary celebrations. More info Page 10. Chamber Golf Day, Friday 30th July 2010, Craigie Hill Golf Club Course Come along and enjoy an afternoon of golf and the stunning views from Craigie Hill Annual Dinner & Business Star Awards – Friday 26th November 2010, Crieff Hydro Hotel This glittering evening celebrates Perthshire’s award winning businesses and takes place in November each year. Around 300 guests attend this black-tie event where the winners are announced and awards collected. Applications are available for any business registered in Perth & Kinross and this is an excellent chance for publicity for your business and a fabulous evening to enjoy with likeminded business people. Look on our website for current winners!
Chamber Business Support 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. Free series of evening seminars where experts offer advice on “How to…” deal with various areas in your business from a “been there, done that” approach. Chamber Training Courses Chamber members can take advantage of great rates through the Chamber’s exclusive training programme which has been created to enhance what is currently available to local businesses through organisations such as Business
Chamber Website Members may use the Chamber’s website for free to promote their goods and services and events over the Internet. Members are also listed in the Scottish Chambers online directory. Our website attracted on average 153,951 hits per month last year so offers a great web presence. Chamber Magazine This if the fifth edition of our quarterly Chamber Magazine – InCommerce. This publication contains news items and items of interest to Chamber members and 2500 of these are distributed around the whole of the Perthshire area – to members and non-members so is a great way to raise the profile of your business. The magazine also offers cost-effective advertising opportunities and prices include the design and makeup of your advert. Chamber Information Hotline Through its contacts and networks, the Chamber can help members find answers to immediate business problems. Chamber Year Book and Appointments Diary This helps other Chamber members contact your business, easily and quickly. It includes company name, type of business, address, telephone, fax, email and principal contact. Members are included in it free of charge. It is issued free annually to members. Scottish Chambers of Commerce Directory This is a classified listing of all members of all Scottish Chambers. Again, Perthshire Chamber members are included free of charge and receive a copy annually. This is also available in an electronic version on the Scottish Chamber’s website.
Chamber Voice Local Representation The Chamber is represented on a variety of organisations and committees. It has regular meetings with Perth & Kinross Council, local MPs, MSPs and MEPs and with Scottish Enterprise Tayside at which it promotes members’ views. The Chamber is in a stronger negotiating position than individual members can be and uses its bargaining power for the benefit of members. National Representation The Perthshire Chamber of Commerce is affiliated to Scottish Chambers of Commerce and through the latter’s Council ensures that Perth & Kinross issues get heard at national level. Scottish Chambers of Commerce is based in Glasgow and keeps especially close to the Scottish Parliament and its ministers. Chamber Telecom Chamber Telecom offers substantial reductions on member companies’ telephone bills. Chamber Telecom groups the best product offerings from leading telecom suppliers on to one bill, to provide members with an improved service at a reduced rate. This service is consistent with one of our key aims at the Chamber, to help our member companies cut costs and be more productive. This particular scheme delivers a high quality service, which ranges from data transfer to Internet connectivity, with minimum hassle and maximum saving. Chamber Health Care The Westfield Health Scheme – Foresight Healthcare Plan provides a cost effective solution to many of the challenges you and your organisation face today. The plan can help you reduce absenteeism; recruit and retain your staff; improve productivity and workplace efficiency; improve staff morale, motivation and lessen grievances; ensure that employees cope with work related and personal problems; fulfil your health and safety obligations; provide early intervention with diagnostic benefits and position the organisation as a caring employer. It is easy to introduce and administer; a low cost alternative to private medical insurance (or can be used in combination); a valuable tool in wage negotiations; cost can be offset against corporation tax. Contact the Chamber office for further details on any of the above or refer to the website www.perthshirechamber.co.uk
THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
|
45
FEB – APR 10
EVENTS MARCH Wed 3 Wed 24
Networking Breakfast Lunch
Brig Farm Shop McDiarmid Park
APRIL Wed 7 Networking Breakfast Tues 20 Success Through Engagement Conference 2010 (see pages 8 & 9) Concert Hall FUTURE DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
JULY Fri 2 & Sat 3 Fri 30 12 noon
Expo 2010 – Perthshire On A Plate (see page 10) Chamber Golf Day
Perth Concert Hall & Surrounding Area Craigie Hill Golf Course
Annual Dinner & Business Star Awards
Crieff Hydro Hotel
NOVEMBER Friday 26
training Become A Confident Networker in association with Janet Torley, thesmallbusinessclub Date:
10th March, 5.30pm – 7.00pm
Sage Introduction Course in association with Johnston Carmichael Chartered Accountants & Perthshire Computer Solutions
Cost:
Chamber members £25
Date:
Tuesday 18th May Tuesday 17th August Tuesday 16th November
Time:
9.00am – 1.30pm
Cost:
£89.00 per person
Venue:
Perthshire Computer Solutions, First Floor, 2/4 South Methven Street, Perth PH1 5PE
Non chamber members £35 Venue:
King James VI Business Centre, Shore Road, Perth,
Overview: Janet is a consummate networker so book now for a hints and tips packed workshop to help you become that successful networker. Learn how to:
Avoid the Limp Fishes Spot the Network Vampires Get out of sticky situations fast Leave a meeting with lots of worthwhile new contacts Leave everyone with a positive impression of you This is a practical workshop for networkers of all levels and will include time to practise your new found skills and techniques with fellow delegates.
Mediation Skills training in association with Rowan Consultancy Date:
15th and 23rd March, 10am -4pm
Cost:
Chamber members £375 Non chamber members £395
Venue:
Rowan Consultancy, 2nd Floor, 4 Kinnoull Street, Perth, PH1 5EN
Overview:
This 2-day course is for managers and HR who would like to develop their mediation and conflict resolution skills. You will learn how to help disputants create their own mutually agreed win-win solutions. The 2008 Employment Act and ACAS code recommend mediation for early dispute resolution. Organisations need staff with mediation skills to help prevent disputes escalating. It is more costeffective to invest in mediation than in expensive grievance, disciplinary procedures or industrial tribunals.
46
THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE
|
FEB – APR 10
The Sage Introduction Course will provide you with an introduction into the world of Sage accounts and show you how to use the program to extract meaningful management information to run your business. This half day course will cover most of the features in Sage Instant Accounts including how to set up your company data, how to create your own invoices in Sage, how to run your VAT return in Sage and all other functions required to produce monthly and annual management accounts. This half day course will cover the following areas: • About Sage • Installation & how to set up a new company • Nominal Ledger & Chart of Accounts • Sales & Purchase Ledgers • Sales & Purchase Invoice Posting • Bank Accounts, Payments, Receipts & Reconciliations • Running your VAT Return • Running Reports • Housekeeping
Further information at www.perthshirechamber.co.uk To book your place(s) on any of these courses please contact the Chamber office on Tel: 01738 450401 or email: events@perthshirechamber.co.uk
employerservices
We’ll give you access to untapped talent, training and subsidies We’ll find you talented employees in your area, and could even offer you £1,000 for the trouble.
it pays to work with us For more information call 01738 412912.
Whether you are thinking of a new a house, or wanting to alter your current one, we are interested in creating unique solutions in every case.
ALEXANDER SCOTT Founded on the principal that building design should be creative, innovative and always underpinned by technical expertise encompassing detailing, cost, health, safety and management, after ten years of continuous growth and development Alexander Scott offer a unique service to all Clients, including:
Distinctive environments, realised quickly are essential to a successful project.
Domestic Retail Leisure and Tourism Industrial
Understanding how a tourist or leisure attraction will mesh into the environment, and ensuring that both benefit, is the key to a successful enterprise.
Bespoke
Efficiency is the watchword of industrial development. This must be interpreted broadly as it is the overall viability of a development that must be optimised, not a single component.
Business Star Awards 2009
Creative Winner
If you would like to talk to us about a project you are considering, please feel free to contact Lesley Scott on 01764 664792 or email lesley@alexanderscott.co.uk
Alexander Scott Building Design and Procurement 5 Feus, Auchterarder PH3 1EP
As a result of our broad approach to design and our concentration on the importance of problem solving skills, we can tackle the unusual and the unique.