your
business yrshire
SUMMER 2012 ÂŁ2
the magazine of ayrshire chamber of commerce and industry
Inside this month: Announcing the Ayrshire Chamber Awards 2012 : page 4 Hot Under The Collar : page 8 Chamber Youth Academy : page 22
contacts Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Suite 1005, Glasgow Airport, Prestwick KA9 2PL Email: enquiries@ayrshire-chamber.org Web: www.ayrshire-chamber.org Tel: 01292 678666 PRESIDENT Willie Mackie CHIEF EXECUTIVE
Valerie Russell
DEVELOPMENT MANAGER
Helen McBride
magazine Editorial Content:
lbruce@ayrshire-chamber.org
Design, Typesetting & Publisher: stuart.glasgownews@gmail.com
Print & Distribution:
brown brothers
ink on paper experts www.brown-bros.com
partners for business Ayrshire Chamber wishes to acknowledge the support of the following companies as sponsors of our Partners for Business programme.
01294 487007 Energetic materials, rocket motors, demolition stores, pyrotechnic & propellant devices
01292 269909 Chartered Financial Planners
01563 500831 With you all the way 01292 611028 The power of insurance
01292 280499 Legal Services
01292 885923 National Health Service
01563 558844 A total solutions company 01292 619000 Creative agency for marketing, design and web
01292 885928 Health advice and services for the work place
01434 611300 Pioneering solutions for everyday life
0800 0432760 IT service & support
01292 265071 Chartered accountants and Business Advisers
Published by SP Publications on behalf of Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce & Industry 2012. No part of this magazine may be copied, scanned or reproduced without the express permission of the Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce. The views expressed in editorial and/or advertising in “Your Ayrshire Business” are not necessarily those of the Editorial Committee of Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce & Industry. Articles submitted for publication will be considered at the Committee’s discretion and may be subject to editing. Publication is not guaranteed.
Your Chamber for the Summer
President: Willie Mackie WITH the UK economy now officially in recession, businesses across Ayrshire and Arran continue to show remarkable resilience and focus in dealing with the uncertain economic environment. The Chamber Board has recently reviewed our own strategy for the next 3 years and this rightly puts supporting our members at the top of our agenda. Following a record attendance of 470 at our Annual Dinner in March, planning is well underway for our Business Week in October
and I am personally looking forward already to the Ayrshire Business Awards following the success of last year's event. A key element of the work of the Chamber is to pro-actively engage with our public sector partners via the Ayrshire Economic Partnership and this is delivering very positive outputs. The recently announced Tourism Strategy for the region is a great example of collaborative working and an innovative new private sector lead initiative "Taste Ayrshire" will drive a common strategy for the Food and Drink sector across Ayrshire and Arran. The Chamber administers the GlaxoSmithKline Community Development Fund which supports job creation and modern apprenticeships in engineering and life science related sectors. I am delighted to confirm at the time of writing the Fund has already supported the creation of 8 apprenticeships and 7 new job roles which is a fantastic achievement. The Chamber Youth Academy is a newly funded pilot project created to help tackle youth unemployment in Ayrshire. The Chamber is supported by our funding partners Access to Employment, South Ayrshire Council and STEP who have developed a training package to build confidence in 16 to 19 year olds who have recently completed the Get Ready for Work
Programme. This initiative is attracting interest from the Scottish Government and Angela Constance MSP, the Minister for Youth Employment will be visiting Ayrshire to hear more about this innovative programme. I recently hosted the latest in our series of "An Audience with" with Maitland Mackie, Chairman of Mackie’s who delivered an entertaining and very passionate presentation on a range of subjects from food production through to the challenges and opportunities of running a family business. These events have proved to be very popular and we intend to repeat this format so watch this space for further updates. Hopefully on publication this article will find the summer weather well and truly with us and of course the Olympics will have the world watching the many events which will be taking place across the country. Val Russell and her Chamber team will be keeping you up to speed with what's happening locally and keeping members fully informed of the many services the Chamber has to offer. I look forward to catching up with as many members as I can over the summer period.
Willie Mackie President of Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce
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Ayrshire Business Awards 2012
AYRSHIRE Chamber of Commerce is delighted to announce the launch of the Ayrshire Business Awards 2012. The Awards, now in their third year are great addition to the established Ayrshire Business week and provide an opportunity for local businesses to demonstrate excellence and gain widespread recognition for their achievements. The event will also showcase outstanding examples of how the business community is driving forward the local economy. Businesses of all sizes and sectors will be invited to submit applications to one or more categories. Applications will be available to download from the Chambers website in the coming weeks. Categories for the Ayrshire Business Awards 2012 include:4
your ayrshire business summer 2012
• INVESTORS in EDUCATION • MOST PROMISING NEW BUSINESS • SUCCESS through SUSTAINABILITY • OUTSTANDING PERFORMING BUSINESS (<25 employees) •OUTSTANDING PERFORMING BUSINESS (>25 employees) • EXCELLENCE in CUSTOMER SERVICE • TOURISM • RURAL ENTERPRISE • HEALTH at WORK • FAMILY BUSINESS
The Awards will take place on Thursday 11th October at the Gailes Hotel, Irvine. Guests will be welcomed with a drinks reception followed by the Awards dinner which will be hosted by Kaye Adams. Sponsors confirmed to date are Bank of Scotland, James Watt College, GlaxoSmithKline, Nestle, Business Gateway, East Ayrshire Council, North Ayrshire Council, South Ayrshire Council and El Studio – The Chamber is grateful for their support without which the event would not be possible. There are a number of sponsorship and advertising opportunities remaining and further category suggestions from sponsors will also be considered. For further information regarding the Ayrshire Business Awards 2012 please email businessawards@entourageuk.com or telephone 0141 887 6181
This atom can’t be split PRESTWICK based design and branding agency atom, has recently just passed its 5th birthday and to coincide with this momentous occasion they were delighted to be the only design and branding agency in South Ayrshire to be approved as part of the prestigious DBA (Design Business Association). To add to the celebrations atom are producing a little book of logos and marks they have produced in the last 5 years to help inspire up and coming local designers to the profession. John Scarrott, Membership Director of the DBA, said: “we are thrilled to welcome atom to the DBA. Clients looking for a high calibre design consultancy need look no further than
a DBA member.” Speaking from his Ayrshire studio Tom McCrorie, creative director of atom said “I am delighted that atom has been approved to part of this organisation that has high calibre design companies across the UK. Although atom’s roots are firmly planted in Ayrshire soil I strongly believe that it does not matter where the business is based, as technology means that we are able to service clients as far afield as South Africa, Germany and Australia. Being a member of DBA will help us achieve all the things we want to achieve as a design company focused on good practice and good design.”
To find out more about atom contact Tom McCrorie on 05600 471128 or visit: www.atomcreate.com
McCaig Renewables achieve ISO 9001 Certification FOLLOWING an assessment by an independent organisation, McCaig Renewables has been successful in achieving ISO 9001 certification. This internationally recognised prestigious award for quality is an
International Standard in use worldwide as a benchmark for quality. The certification recognises McCaig Renewables commitment to an exceptional quality of service. John McCaig, Director emphasises
“We have always been proud of the service we offer our clients. Now with ISO 9001 certification, this has been confirmed by outside experts who are used to judging service on a daily basis in a wide variety of trade and industries.”
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Securing finance to grow your Derek Macgarvie, Senior Manager business By for Bank of Scotland in Ayrshire that your previous accounts are in order and fully illustrate the past performance of your business. You will also need to be able to demonstrate what the funding will be used for and a clear outline of how you will pay the money back, and over how long. Transparency is a vital part of this process. A good finance provider will then be able to offer guidance on which funding solutions will work best for your business and allow you to achieve your ambitions. At Bank of Scotland, we can offer a range of products to help you Term loans are a structured borrowing method, based on lending against a security - such as your company’s assets or another form of guarantee. Overdraft facilities can also provide a boost to your working capital if you are embarking on a project that may impact your cash flow. If you are looking to purchase new business premises, a commercial mortgage can also prove suitable. In addition to these, there are other funding options available which may be suited to small businesses. The Governmentbacked Enterprise Finance
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your ayrshire business summer 2012
Guarantee (EFG) scheme, for example, is an ideal funding option for firms who have a viable business proposal, but lack the security to secure conventional funding. As part of Lloyds Banking Group, we continue to approve eight out of ten requests for loans and overdrafts and in the first quarter of 2012 we committed £3.2 billion of gross lending to UK SMEs. This means we are on track to meet our commitment of £12 billion for the full year. To find out how Bank of Scotland can work with your business, please contact 01563 500 831 or visit: www.bankofscotlandbusiness.co.uk All lending is subject to a satisfactory credit assessment Bank of Scotland plc Registered Office: The Mound, Edinburgh EH1 1YZ. Registered in Scotland no. SC327000. Telephone: 0870 600 5000. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority under number 169628. Licensed under the Consumer Credit Act 1974 under registration number 0593292. We subscribe to The Lending Code; copies of the Code can be obtained from: www.lendingstandardsboard.org.uk The Lloyds Banking Group includes Bank of Scotland plc and a number of other companies using brands including Lloyds TSB, Halifax and Bank of Scotland, and their associated companies. Bank of Scotland is an Ayrshire Chamber Partner for Business
To advertise in the next edition of
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AS fragile economic conditions continue to affect business across Ayrshire, it is perhaps understandable that there may be a lack of confidence among SMEs in the region about growing their business and securing finance to do so. A key part of restoring business confidence is providing access to finance, which plays a crucial role for firms looking at their future needs. Investing is essential in order to capitalise on expansion opportunities and enable growth, and so Ayrshire companies must not be put off by perceived barriers which they believe may prevent them securing funding. One of the best places to start when looking to secure finance is with your business plan. It is important to spend some time creating a clear, strong plan with financial forecasts, clearly thought out for the next three to five years. You will also need to anticipate issues which may require additional finance going forward. This is an important first step that will give both you and your bank a clear view of which options will meet your business’ needs in the short, medium and long-term. Beyond a good business plan, the bank will also want to see
business yrshire
the magazine of ayrshire chamber of commerce and industry
call Stuart Pennington on 07792 362 587
Hot Under the Collar? IS the traditional widely used collar and tie dress code in business dying out? Naturally, this question is aimed predominantly at employers and their male employees (although there will no doubt be numerous examples across the country of female members of staff using traditional formal male attire from time to time). A company rule which states "collar and tie only during working hours" also may now need more careful examination than might have previously been necessary. In extreme cases, an employer might be embarrassed by this rule, particularly if they employed the gentleman who attended a “black-tie only” function recently completely naked, apart from his black tie. So, if you want to avoid having to deal with an employee who
misinterprets your dress code, consider whether you really need a “one size fits all" rule in the first place. Traditional appearance and dress codes are becoming less and less important in the eyes of many employers, particularly given the increased numbers of homeworkers, dress down days and different national and social cultures that exist across all sectors of employment. But how can any “wardrobe malfunctions” be addressed, or even undressed? Inappropriate facial jewellery, Tshirts with slogans, men wearing shorts and sandals in the summer, staff removing their shoes completely in the office, and yes, a failure to wear a collar and tie, have all been subject matter for Qdos employment advisers to fashion some guidance. Indeed, the fashion police may be called to an emergency on your premises at any time but, like all
Observant Hope Homes CONGRATULATIONS to Hope Homes, appointed to construct The Scottish Dark Sky Observatory at Craigengillan Estate in Ayrshire. The observatory, that will be open to the public, is expected to be completed midsummer, with a formal opening anticipated in late September. Chair of the Trust, Mark Gibson, said “The project is an incredibly exciting one. The Dark
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your ayrshire business summer 2012
Sky Park here is one of only eight in the world and the only one in Britain. From the Observatory, visitors will be able to gaze at countless stars, the Milky Way stretching from horizon to horizon, shooting stars, planets, comets and the Northern Lights. In time, the Observatory is expected to attract 100,000 visitors each year and to bring great employment opportunities. It will be a wonderful asset for Scotland.” Ian Hope, Director of Hope Homes, said, “We are thrilled to be involved in this landmark project. We are already building the successful model community of Knockroon in conjunction with the Prince’s Charities. “With our appointment to build the Scottish Dark Sky Observatory we are now creating two of the most interesting and prestigious projects in Scotland. The Observatory will be a marvellous development for Ayrshire and, indeed, for the country.”
police, they will need to show that they have the power to arrest the culprit and to bring the offender before the courts! So before you call “Nein, Nein, Nein” to the employee who insists on wearing a German football shirt in the office every time his international football team play a game, make sure you have an equivalent policy in place for all other Euro 2012 countries! In short, if you want to ban shorts, including football shorts and especially German ones, make it clear in your Employee Handbook what you are prepared to tolerate and what you are not prepared to tolerate in terms of how your staff dress at work. Oh, and make sure that the rules can't be misinterpreted – we don't want a “collar and tie only” moment, now do we? Suits you sir!!!! John Latham Senior Employment Law Consultant Qdos Consulting For further information on Employee Handbook review and drafting www.chamberhr.co.uk
Leading The Way THE Ayrshire LEADER Local Action Group is urging any community groups, organisations, partnerships or public agencies seeking funds to deliver a project that meets the aims of the Ayrshire Programme, to get in touch now. Priority will be given to robust applications for projects which demonstrate a strong match funding profile and can complete within a defined timescale. Applicants will be expected to show how their project contributes to the local development strategy as well as displaying innovation and a capacity to undertake the project. Where appropriate, you will be asked to show how the project can be sustained beyond the funding period. Since its launch in late 2008, Ayrshire LEADER has committed £3.67m of funds to 92 rural projects, supporting a £8.25 million investment into Ayrshire and they are really seeing the benefits of this LEADER investment. Projects are restricted to a maximum funding period of 2 years and we do not accept applications for less than £1,000 or over £250,000. If you would like to take advantage of available LEADER funding download an application at www.ayrshire-leader.com or contact Sarah Baird at the LEADER office on 01292 673 765
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Clydeport Renews Yachting Sponsorship Until 2015 CLYDEPORT, the port authority for the River Clyde, have confirmed their sponsorship for Largs Regatta Week until 2015. The company have been sponsoring the Largs based event for the last six years. “We are delighted to continue our association with Largs Regatta Week for a further three years,” commented Clyde Harbour Master Captain Ron Bailey. “This is a fantastic event for all age groups and types of boats from dinghies to serious racing yachts. It showcases the fabulous sailing waters of the Clyde estuary which are second to none.” Clydeport Largs Regatta Week runs in 2012 from 25 August to 2 September and offers a mix of round the buoys and round the islands racing together with a lively social scene. It is based at the 700 berth Largs Yacht Haven and is organised jointly by Largs Sailing Club and Fairlie Yacht Club. For further information on the event please see www.largssc.co.uk
PAWS for celebration WHEN the staff of Hunterston B Powerstation achieved more than four years, equivalent to over 7 million man hours, without an injury at work, they decided to mark this impressive pedigree by sponsoring a Guide Dog for the Blind. Plant Manager, Paul Forrest explains, “Safety is always our number one priority at Hunterston B and is very much part of our culture, but even taking that into account this is a tremendous achievement. We did this through rigorous health and safety training and high levels of nuclear professionalism. Our contractors are also to be congratulated for adhering to our company standards and expectations. Reaching this milestone, considering the station employs 550 staff and 250 contractors - is another huge step towards our journey to achieving our ambition of zero harm.” A £5,000 donation will go to Guide Dogs for the Blind and a new puppy will be reared close to the station. Paul adds, “We are delighted to be able to make this donation to such a worthwhile charity and the staff is very excited at the prospect of being able to name our new furry friend.” 10
your ayrshire business summer 2012
Enterprising Improvements ACCOUNTANCY student Jamie Campbell, from Cumnock, has added value to his community by developing a social enterprise aimed at providing local young people with training and employment opportunities. Choosing to set up a garden maintenance and landscaping service, Jamie wanted to make this service affordable to the locals. Jamie explains, “In order to do this I had to raise funding for transport, equipment and staffing. I applied to join the Coalfields Regeneration Trust Community Challenge, a scheme designed to support and develop social enterprises within the coalfields area. As part of the support offered by the Trust I was assigned a mentor, attended training days, and received support in developing my business plan and idea as a whole.” After pitching his idea to a panel of “dragons den” type judges, Jamie was delighted when his project was awarded the top prize of £50,000.
Jamie adds, “The prize was a great start for the project allowing me to purchase everything necessary and funding wages.” With further advice from Scottish Enterprise Jamie is now in the process of setting up his enterprise as a Scottish Charity Incorporated Organisation. Jamie continues, “I am now well on my way to launching my social enterprise and still receive a great amount of support from the Coalfields Regeneration Trust as well as other organisations such as the Council of Voluntary Organisations, the Volunteer Centre and East Ayrshire Council. My advice to anybody wishing to set up a social enterprise is go for it, the amount of support you receive and the funding possibilities make setting up a whole lot easier, I believe that it is a great way to combine an interest in business and combining that with an interest in improving your community.” Contact Jamie on skerringtonja@yahoo.co.uk
£25,000 cash prize THE British Chambers of Commerce is inviting firms to showcase their talents and achievements to be in with a chance of winning a £25,000 cash prize. The Chamber Awards 2012 is designed to recognise and promote the best businesses in Britain through a series of regional heats followed by the National Final, which will be held in London on November 29th. BCC President Martyn Pellew said, “This year we want everyone to understand the contribution business makes to the economy, and to society as a whole. Businesses will be at the forefront of the recovery, providing jobs, and creating wealth. Every day we hear amazing stories from businesses that are innovative, successful in international markets, and create new products. It is stories like these that we are looking to find and recognise through the Chamber Awards. Last year, over 600 firms took part and 2012 promises to be even bigger as we look to demonstrate that ‘Business is Good for Britain!’” Businesses can enter the following categories this year: • Achievement in International Business • Award for Commitment to People Development • Award for Excellence in Innovation • Award for Excellence in Customer Service • Business of the Year Award • Entrepreneur of the Year Award • Marketing Campaign of the Year • Most Promising New Business Award • The Sustainability Award Closing date for entries is 29th June. The Chamber Awards 2012 is supported by BT Business, Westfield Health, Qdos Consulting and Composite Legal Expenses. To enter online go to www.chamberawards.co.uk or for further information you can contact the Chamber Awards Team on 02476 472593. Entry is FREE to members of Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce and applicants will receive an automatic entry to the Ayrshire Business Awards 2012. 12
your ayrshire business summer 2012
Sleek and speedy WEB design and marketing members, Sleekmedia are sponsoring local lad Gordon McAvoy, who competes in the Scottish Championships Superstock 600cc series. On his Yamaha R6 motorcycle, last season, Gordon achieved 40 top 3 finishes in 42 races, 20 of them in the winner spot. “The other two were crashes,” says Gordon matter-of-factly. Motorbike racing is an expensive sport and Gordon needs sponsorship to keep him at the top level having moved up a class this year. Managing Director at Sleekmedia, David Wilkinson says, “We are delighted to be able to support Gordon using our marketing expertise and by
designing his website. We hope that our work will encourage other businesses to help Gordon fulfil his ambition to become a World Champion.” www.gordonmcavoy.co.uk www.sleekmedia.co.uk
Mediation not aggravation “IT is a common misconception to think of Mediation as the option of last resort in separation and divorce.” says Alicia Smith from Glasgow Independent Mediation, “This is not so. In fact if you wait until the last resort Mediation may no longer be an option!” Alicia explains, “If people are spending time and energy in frustrating negotiations which seem to be going nowhere, they naturally become more and more defensive and suspicious of each other. As the months - and sometimes years – go by, this tends to lead to acrimony and deeply entrenched positions of stalemate. This is not the best time to bring in Mediation!” Alicia advises that, Mediation can bring efficient and effective resolution and reduce the trauma of separation and divorce, if it is done before the couple have become totally embittered. Couples going through separation or divorce often use Mediation to help reach agreement on child access arrangements, financial matters, care of pets or any other issues of concern. The Mediator facilitates communication and understanding and helps the couple negotiate with each other in order to reach an agreement which is acceptable to both. This agreement can be used as the basis of a legal Separation Agreement. For further details of this service, contact Alicia Smith on 01292 281793 or 07761237646 or visit www.glasgowindependent mediation.co.uk
HOME POD SCOTTISH IT support and maintenance company Microtech and telehealth provider Telehealth Solutions have joined together to deliver responsive installation and technical support to NHS customers across the north of England and Scotland. Ayrshire based Microtech will be installing and maintaining the “Home Pod”, a state-of-the-art monitoring service that will allow hundreds of people to remain living safely and independently at home. The “Home Pod”, which is helpful to those with conditions such as long-term
chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and Congestive Heart Failure, allows people to monitor their own blood pressure, blood oxygen level, temperature, weight and heart rate and record the results using a simple menu-driven touch-screen tablet computer. Information gathered is sent by wireless, broadband or telephony to the Telehealth Solutions server, and alerts are transmitted to carers or may be posted to the patient’s record at the clinician’s surgery in compliance with the relevant guidelines. No clinical data is stored in the patient’s home. Microtech have vast experience in installing and maintaining healthcare solutions as they were previously awarded the National contract to provide all of Scotland’s GP’s with a sophisticated Electronic Document Management and Workflow tool for managing the large volumes of paper patient letters. Microtech’s Managing Director Chris McMail said, “We are pleased to be involved with Telehealth in providing what we believe is a fantastic product with many benefits for both the patients and the
Health and Social Services. As well as giving people back their independence, the “Home Pod” has the potential to save the health service unnecessary appointments and unnecessary emergency admissions, as well as freeing up professionals’ time and hospital beds”. Tim Shaw, Operations Director at Telehealth Solutions adds “We are delighted to be working with Microtech who will provide specialist, responsive support to our customers. We recognise the challenges that our customers face in tough geographical regions, and Microtech have the knowledge and dedicated staff to respond to these needs” . In addition Microtech will continue to provide support for Telehealth Solutions’ SurgeryPod, a device that enables patients to measure their own blood pressure and answer health questions in the GP waiting room. The results are directly posted to their patient record, making GP appointments more efficient and giving clinical staff more time to care.
£30,000 Prize Fund For Best New Consortium Business Ideas CO-OPERATIVE Development Scotland (CDS)’s inaugural Collaboration Prize, which has a prize fund of £30,000, aims to encourage businesses to consider collaboration with other
businesses to allow them to fulfil shared interests. CDS is calling for interested parties to pitch their idea for a new consortium cooperative and three winning concepts will be announced in August.
Entry deadline: 31 July 2012. For more information about the Collaboration Prize or Co-operative Development Scotland, please visit: www.scottish-enter prise.com/cdscollaboration-prize
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Treemendous CHAMBER member Datec recycles and disposes of redundant electronics materials and products, specialising in material from the communication services industry. As part of their commitment to tackle their carbon footprint, Datec can now generate individual carbon reports for clients to assist them in calculating the lifecycle carbon footprint of the products sent to Datec for recycling/disposal. In developing a strategic partnership with clients, the company has worked to assist in the decarbonisation of the supply chain and reduce the carbon emissions associated with the recycle/disposal aspect of the lifecycle analysis. There are inevitably some unavoidable emissions remaining, so in order to keep the whole process carbon neutral, Datec offers an offsetting service for clients in the form of a tree planting programme in rural Scotland. Datec's carbon offsetting involves a partnership with Trees4Scotland who plant only native trees with the aim of
re-establishing Scotland's native woodlands. In total Datec has planted 2102 thus far and more will be planted this year; this is incredible achievement as many of these trees will live for
tens or even hundreds of years and will keep on capturing carbon. For more details of this programme contact Jenny Hughes Environmental Manager on: 01294 556 581 jennyh@datectech.co.uk
Bridgend does it for charity ON Sunday the 13th May, three representatives of Bridgend Group joined thousands of walkers and runners in the Race for Life at Eglinton Park, Irvine. Angela Logan, Alison Mitchell and Marion Nixon were joined by friends and families to complete the 5k course and have managed to raise in excess of £1,000 for Cancer research UK in the process.
Promo opps at the Chamber LOOKING for a new and cost effective way of business to business promotion? Ayrshire Chamber has a range of sponsorship opportunities, for members, which can help raise your business profile. Our behind the scenes networking events have proved very popular, with many members hosting. Show off what your business has to offer and help grow awareness
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of what Ayrshire has to offer. Hosts can choose to arrange guided tours as well as give a welcome introduction speech before the networking begins. Don’t worry if you don’t have the premises to host a large group of visitors, we can arrange your event branding at another location, which would still include a speaker slot at the event. Sponsors get a name check on all
our promo materials, and in the magazine events Round-up. For those of you who have attended one of our larger events, we are always looking for sponsors for gifts, prizes, printing, design, sound, lighting, in fact maybe you can come up with something we haven’t thought of yet! To find out more, call our Events Coordinator on 01292 678666, ask for Yvonne.
Image: Courtesy of Ayrshire Post
VISITORS arriving at Enterkine House Hotel will experience a bit of luxury from the gate to the door as the newly laid drive means a smooth ride from start to finish. General Manager, Angela Tremble says, “I look forward to welcoming more traffic to our door!” Angela is pictured with Ewan from Gavin Lawrie Road Surfacers in Prestwick and Ewen Terras of Sparing Terras in Ayr, who cut the ribbon and officially opened the drive. Quite appropriate as Ewen is related to Robert Loudon MacAdam!
Road to success
Have you got the vibe? VIBES environmental awards scheme aims to recognise businesses of all sizes and sectors employing environmental best practice in their day-to-day activity to cut down on resource use, increase sustainability, improve reputation and benefit the company’s bottom-line. Over the past decade, the free-to-enter awards have produced winners and commended companies from across Scotland including household names like Robert Wiseman Dairies and Mitsubishi. VIBES is the only Scottish awards scheme that feeds into the European Business Awards for the Environment (EBAE) which attracts entries from the cream of Europe’s most environmentally positive businesses. All shortlisted entries for the VIBES Awards will also be offered free support from The Edinburgh Centre for Carbon Innovation. This support will be available for a minimum of half a day, and a maximum of three days, within six months of the VIBES Award ceremony. Visit www.vibes.org.uk before the 6 July deadline to find out more!
Cooking up an Award
KILMARNOCK company Kitchens by J.S. Geddes won the kbb ‘U.K. Kitchen Retailer of the Year 2012,’ a coveted title awarded annually in the U.K. The black tie dinner and dance was compered by comedian and impressionist, Rory Bremner who presented Managing Director, Jim Geddes with the much respected silver trophy. Jim Geddes commented, “This award is a true testament to the hard work and commitment levels of our staff. We are delighted that our industry peers chose us ahead of almost 6000 kitchen retailers in the U.K.” www.jsgeddes.com your ayrshire business summer 2012
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Say YES to Growth SCOTLAND’S industry and business support organisations are putting their support behind a new campaign to get Scotland’s economy moving again. The new campaign from Scottish Enterprise, launched 17 May, is calling on Scottish companies to say “Yes to Growth” and aims to stimulate greater investment by businesses. It has received backing from a wide range of public sector partners including Business Gateway, and Skills Development Scotland, as well as endorsement by key industry organisations including CBI Scotland, and the Scottish Chambers of Commerce. Recognising that, understandably, some companies are putting off their investment plans due to the current economic conditions, the campaign invites companies to come forward with new proposals that will help them grow their business, and which Scottish Enterprise and its partners can support with advice, expertise and possible funding. Lena Wilson, Chief Executive of Scottish Enterprise, said: “The reality is that we can only get Scotland’s economy moving again if we can get Scottish companies investing. We know that companies that are
continuing to focus on their growth, by identifying new opportunities and going after them, are bucking the trend and outperforming the norm. By encouraging more companies to increase their innovation, develop new products or enter new overseas markets, we can also help to increase our R&D and export activity and improve Scotland’s overall economic performance.” Scottish Enterprise is targeting companies which want to create long term sustainable jobs, develop a new product or service, diversify into a new market or trade internationally for the first time. The agency has streamlined its processes and cut its red tape to make it easier and faster for them to support companies who come forward via the campaign. Ms Wilson added: “Given some of the more negative stories about the economy, we want to send a more positive message to Scottish companies and give them the confidence to invest by letting them see the results others are achieving.” Ayrshire Chamber Chief Executive, Val Russell said, "We are fully supportive of Scottish Enterprise's push to get companies investing in growth. We would encourage our members to get involved
Sercon cleans up CLEANING and security provider Sercon Support Services Ltd has cleaned up with 2 new contract awards, after securing a contract to provide close cleaning services to Ardenglen Housing Association Ltd, and an office cleaning contract with Thenue Housing, both following a competitive open tender process. Ardenglen Housing Association Ltd is a registered social landlord and non-profit making charity. Formed in 1990, the Association builds, manages and maintains high quality accommodation for rent, with housing stock through the Castlemilk area of Glasgow. 16
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Sercon’s Managing Director, Lorraine Stevely said; “We are looking forward to working closely with Ardenglen Housing Association on this project and to build upon our new partnership. Over the past two years we have invested significantly in our people and processes to allow us to successfully compete in tender opportunities such as this and it’s encouraging to see the results of this commitment via contract award and new client relationship developing.” Diane Hendry, Housing Services Manager at Ardenglen commented; “Our residents pay a charge for close cleaning, and are keen to ensure that value for money and high quality are both achieved. The Association is
with the Culture of Yes campaign and put forward their growth proposals. “Alongside our own 'Business is Good for Ayrshire' theme, which recognises the contribution that businesses and our members make to the economy, there is no better time for Scottish companies to think about how they can grow and prosper now and in the future.” satisfied that Sercon have the necessary skills and experience to deliver on their promises and we are delighted to be working in partnership with them for the forthcoming year”. Thenue Housing owns and manages around 3000 properties situated across the Greater Glasgow area, East Dunbartonshire and Renfrewshire. Securing a 3 year contract, Sercon will provide office cleaning services and specialist cleaning of IT desktop equipment, telephones, printers, photocopiers, TV’s and information booth to the Association’s new purpose built head office. Lorraine adds; “The Thenue Housing Association contract win adds to our strong cleaning portfolio and further highlights our experience and expertise in this field.” Stop Press! Resolution Property, who recently bought over the centre in January, has awarded Sercon Support Services Ltd a two year security contract at Ocean Terminal in Leith – Edinburgh’s largest Shopping Centre. The contract, which commenced in early May 2012, was secured via a competitive tender process which saw Sercon beat off stiff competition to secure the contract, which is worth a total overall value of over £600k. Under the terms of the contract, Sercon’s security assignment at Ocean Terminal will consist of 24/7 manned guarding and CCTV monitoring.
Chamber Chicks OUR own spring chickens took part in the Land O Burns Midnight Walk to help raise funds for the Ayrshire Hospice. Thanks to Brian Muir of Air Image for the picture, we’re still finding some wee yellow feathers!
Taking a bite out of the international market NOW in its third year, Ayr based design and marketing company Big Blue Dog has proven that distance is no barrier to business in the digital age, having secured a host of contracts from both national and international clients. With a passion for design and hunger to deliver a true agency experience at local costs, Big Blue Dog have attracted several national clients and are now adding overseas businesses to their growing client list. “Our goal is to provide businesses with the very best advice and creativity to help them succeed in the digital world while keeping within budgets. This strategy has proven a huge success and won us many clients from further afield, such as EFR Travel and West One from London, GMS and Ultra Energy from Manchester and BOFA International from Poole. We have also won a new contract with a Chicago based International Bank and have started work on a series of new brands and websites that will be launched in the USA, Asia and Europe.” says Kris Kirk, Creative Director, “It’s great to see that our young team of creatives from Ayrshire are being recognised for their grasp of new technologies and quality of service.” www.bbdog.co.uk your ayrshire business summer 2012
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WORLDWIDE EXPOSURE
AYRSHIRE and Arran led the way at VisitScotland’s Expo2012 at the Royal Highland Centre in Edinburgh, as public and private sector partners worked together to promote the area to travel trade buyers from around the world. At the launch of the Ayrshire and Arran Tourism Strategy, in February, attendance at the national tourism trade show was identified as one of the key early actions. The success of the stand is testament to the new partnership approach. Expo is Scotland’s flagship business to
business event for the travel trade. Leading tourism businesses and associations including Auchrannie Resort, Accommodation Ayrshire, VisitArran, and Gailes Golf Experience combined to showcase their products and services to key buyers from around the globe. Moira Birtwistle, Chair of the Ayrshire and Arran Tourism Leadership Group said: "Everyone is working very hard to deliver early actions and move forward with our new five year tourism strategy. The collaborative approach to showcasing Ayrshire at VisitScotland Expo has been
one of the foundation stones of our new strategic approach and I am delighted that the partners have worked so hard to put our area on a national stage and engage with new markets.” Daniel Steel, Tourism Officer at East Ayrshire Council, who has co-ordinated the collaborative presence for the past four years, added: “We are working hard to ensure that Ayrshire is viewed as a key destination, so I am delighted that we have been able to again support our industry partners in showcasing the area. VisitScotland Expo provides an excellent platform to sell the area to travel trade and generate new business for Ayrshire. Our partners took enquiries from all over the world during the two days so I am sure that everyone will benefit from this ongoing partnership approach.” Mike Cantlay, Chairman of VisitScotland, said: “I know from my recent visit to Ayrshire that there is a renewed energy to work together to grow tourism. The benefits of a joined up approach are clear from watching the partners at the show. Engaging new markets, shouting about our best assets and cross-selling are all essential to growing the sector and Ayrshire and Arran seem to do this very well with their collaborative presence at Expo over the past few years.” Plans are now underway to further strengthen Ayrshire and Arran’s position as a key tourism destination with a presence at the 2013 Expo, when the show returns to Glasgow.
New Partner signs for the Mckinstry Company THE McKinstry Company, Ayr’s progressive Law Firm continues its growth and has strengthened its team recruiting and assuming John Fulton as a new Partner with overall responsibility for the property department. John from Prestwick is an experienced property Lawyer and deals with a wide range of property transactions both residential and commercial and has gained expertise in commercial acquisitions. John commented upon his assumption “I am delighted that I have been asked to return to the Firm where I started as a Trainee. I believe that clients want to see a different approach to the provision of legal services and I am excited about being part of a new type of law firm. I look forward to playing my part in the growth and development of the business and in building client relationships.” Partner, Graeme McKinstry in welcoming John’s return said “We are all 18
your ayrshire business summer 2012
very pleased that John accepted our invitation to return to the Firm in a Partner status because having trained here we all knew of his skills, capabilities and dedication towards
client satisfaction. I am especially pleased to acknowledge that all of the Partners in the Firm trained here and are now taking forward the Firm’s ethos which is that People are our Business.”
Creating market leading location in new Enterprise Area
Auchrannie Resort celebrates success AUCHRANNIE Resort has been crowned 'Hotel of the Year 2012' by the 'Scottish Entertainment Guide' at a glittering black tie event which took place in Glasgow in April. The awards aimed to celebrate everything great in the Scottish entertainment market including restaurants, casinos, bars and of course hotels. Auchrannie was originally shortlisted after the organisers received hundreds of nominations from Auchrannie’s loyal online followers, fans and "Buddies". Richard Small, General Manager on collecting the award said “We are over the moon to have won such a prestigious award and by doing so beat competition from the length and breadth of Scotland. There are many amazing hotels throughout Scotland but to be recognised as the best is an outstanding honour for us all". Commenting further, Linda Johnston, Group Director added “Winning this particular award is a tremendous achievement for the entire team and proves that Auchrannie really does deliver to customers the perfect combination of comfort, quality & service consistently”.
WORK is underway in Irvine to create the top innovation and industrial investment location in the south-west of Scotland. At i3 – Irvine Industry and Innovation park - landscaping work is already underway to transform the appearance of the site. This will include the removal of accumulated rubbish and dereliction from parts of the surrounding area. The awarding of contracts follows hard on the heels of the Scottish Government announcement that an Enterprise Area would be created in Irvine focussing on life sciences – with i3 forming the key part of the Enterprise Area. That means the business park, formerly Riverside Business Park, is now a major part of the plan to attract inward investors to the area, creating jobs and opportunities. Working with Scottish Enterprise, the idea is to market the extensive i3 business park in three distinct campuses, innovation, industry and investment. As a first phase to improve the physical appearance on arrival from the A71, Irvine Bay have awarded a landscaping contract of over £350,000 to Caley Construction which will see huge improvements to the appearance and structural planting. The works
along the boulevard on Long Drive and at the roundabouts will create elegant grassed borders to the carriageway supported by new tree planting and low shrubs providing a more open and welcoming aspect. Irvine Bay has also acquired a number of new development plots and is embarking on a series of physical improvement works. A fire damaged building on the campus has been demolished and the site is being tidied of all debris to make way for future letting or sale. Patrick Wiggins, Chief Executive of Irvine Bay, said the recent Enterprise Area announcement would “provide a huge boost” to the efforts at i3 and in Irvine Bay. He said: “The company and our partners at North Ayrshire Council lobbied hard for Enterprise Area status, and we can now build on the huge efforts already being made to bring new businesses and more employment opportunities to the area. “The Enterprise Area will focus on the land around the GlaxoSmithKline plant, i3 – Irvine Industry and Innovation Business Park, and Annickbank Business Park, meaning it will be well placed to attract a range of high-tech and life sciences companies bringing well paid jobs to the area.”
Taking on an Employee? A NEW online toolkit has been launched which provides first-time employers with a step-by-step guide through their obligations when taking on a member of staff. The Taking on an Employee toolkit takes employers through the process of hiring their first member of staff and explains their core legal obligations when doing so. This includes information on setting pay, getting the right insurance, understanding tax requirements and checking a new employee’s right to work in the UK. In addition, a mythbusters document has been published alongside the online toolkit which aims to address some common misconceptions about hiring a member of staff. This document includes helpful advice on registering with HMRC, anti-discrimination laws, dismissal rules, setting up payrolls and probation periods. Also available from the site will be information about Government support, financial and otherwise, to encourage employers to take on their first employee. The Taking on an employee online tool can be found at www.businesslink.gov.uk/employ your ayrshire business summer 2012
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Business Ambassadors Programme SOME of Ayrshire’s most enthusiastic supporters from the public and private sector, including Chamber CEO Val Russell, attended the launch of the Ayrshire Hospice new Business Ambassadors Programme.
Try before you buy online software offer for Chamber members
Image: Courtesy of the Ayrshire Post
Over a business breakfast, Hospice staff gave a programme of presentations about their work and its impact and the constant need for support to continue caring for people in Ayrshire and Arran. Guests were also given the opportunity for a guided tour of the Hospice’s facilities. The Programme aims to develop a network of Business and Community Ambassadors to help spread the word about what the Hospice does. It hopes to reduce misconceptions about the work of the Hospice, increase access to services and encourage greater support through income generation to maintain and develop services. www.ayrshirehospice.org
New office adds up
NETBOOKIT, an innovative online software company based in Ayrshire, is offering Temp Recruitment Software and Payroll Services to new and existing chamber members. The offer is available to new start up companies during their first year of membership to Ayrshire Chamber. The 1 Year free offer incorporates payroll services and temporary recruitment software. Existing Ayrshire Chamber members can access 6 months payroll free of charge. The software system usage includes; Customer Support, System Update, Employee Online Access and Year End Submission. In addition, the temp recruitment software offer for existing chamber members is a no obligation free 3 month trial of the system. Steven Mould, Managing Director of Netbookit Ltd said “The netbookit system is an intuitive, multidirectional software solution and is fully scalable to significantly reduce operating costs. This flexible online software solution maximises service and user experience”. The software solution can be viewed online at www.netbookit.com or for a more in-depth demonstration contact Steven on 01563 822 070
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your ayrshire business summer 2012
WESTBURN Business Centre is delighted to welcome their latest tenant, M.S. Accountancy Services, who took up their office space in May. Stephen McLean and Kenneth Strang have been in business in Ayrshire for a number of years, but the time had come to search for suitable premises. Kenneth explains, “Working from home was fine for a while, but with the additional accountancy business we have taken on, Stephen and I felt that we needed an office space that presented M.S. Accountancy Services in a more established way. Westburn Business Centre has certainly filled that need”. Murray Bothwell from Westburn Business Centre says, “I sense a positive move in the market as the number of enquiries we have had since, the Chamber Tick Talk networking event has increased dramatically.” www.westburnbusinesscentre.com
Work Experience
Katie and classmates at Troon Fire Station
A drilling experience “10 BELMONT Academy 1st year pupils were chosen to go and experience what it was like to work for the Fire Brigade for 1 week, and I was one of those pupils. At Troon Fire Station, we learned the basic skills of being part of the fire service such as :- CPR, mouth to mouth, hose runs and how to control the hose. We did basic drills like how to find your way around a room looking out for casualties, while carrying heavy equipment and being blind folded. On the last day we put on a small display to our friends and family. We displayed two drills :one RCC (Road crash collision) and the second a house fire, both had casualties. Then there was an award ceremony and we were all presented with a certificate and group photo to take away. All round I had a very fun and enjoyable experience!”
Katie
Jack from Marr College takes some orders at Scotts
A real taste of the trade
A new chapter?
Kirsty from Belmont Academy hard at work in Waterstones “AT Waterstones we value our work experience students as it is a chance for us to give something back to our local community.” said a representative. “It is fantastic to see students’ confidence blossom as their week continues. We hope that the experience gives them an insight into how we run our business and the hard work that this entails! Work experience can open doors for some students - we have employed 2 former work experience students so far.” Kirsty adds, "I've had a very lovely week at Waterstones on work experience. I have learned a lot about the wonderful world of bookselling and will be sad to go back to school! I won't get half as much work done!"
“BUZZWORKS is happy to be involved in the Work Experience Programme, this helps us to see the potential of future employees, some of the pupils have completed Work Experience and subsequently come to work for us. It also gives the pupils a real taste of what is involved in working in the Hospitality Industry and helps them make a better informed decision about what career path they choose.” Angela McPhillips Personnel & Training Manager, Buzzworks Holdings
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Best foot Chamber Youth forward Academy AYRSHIRE Chamber of Commerce recently ran a pilot initiative aimed at helping 16 to 18 year olds make steps towards employment. Chamber Youth Academy saw 6 young people undertake a week long itinerary involving coaching, confidence building, and behind the scenes visits in an effort to ready them for the workplace. Claire Baird, Business Liaison Co-ordinator at the Chamber said, “With youth unemployment a real problem in the area, we want to develop the Chamber Youth Academy as a one stop shop for employers to source work ready, eager and reliable employees. During the week we have been working on communication skills, building confidence and customer service. With the help of local businesses, we have given our candidates a real understanding of a prospective employer’s expectations.” Candidates were coached in Confidence Building by Derek Mair Managing Director Ngage-2Excel Limited, Derek said, "It always amazes me how much potential they have when someone believes in them and helps them build their confidence so they can lead fulfilled and purposeful lives that contribute to society. Through The Youth Academy and working with Ngage-2-Excel these young people realise that the only thing that limits their success is themselves." Local business Mackenzie Hall Group facilitated a session of telephone training at their premises in Kilmarnock. David Johnston, HR Manager at 22
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Darren and Jamie take a break from the phones at Mackenzie Hall
Mackenzie Hall Group said “As Mackenzie Hall is growing at a substantial rate it allows us to communicate to young adults what we look for in potential employees. I hope our presentation has provided valuable tips for them to take away and use in securing future employment.” Paul Mackenzie, Chief Executive at Mackenzie Hall Group added “As a significant employer in Ayrshire we are proud to support our local community by taking part in the Chamber Youth Academy and be amongst the first to host this worthwhile pilot project.”
The candidates were also invited to a behind the scenes tour of GE Aviation, where they followed the journey of a jet engine through the workshops to the test centre. On completion of the week, candidates were presented with certificates from Colin Blair, Director of Buzzworks Holdings, at their Treehouse Restaurant in Ayr. If you are a business with employment prospects, candidate profiles can be viewed at: www.ayrshirechamber.org/chamberyouthaca demy.asp and you may also qualify for recruitment incentives.
HURLFORD Primary School and Torrance Lodge Care Home have always enjoyed a close link in the community. Following a meeting between the school and the Education Team at the Chamber, Asda agreed to support a planting project called Growsure. Pupils have visited Asda during their Community Day and helped tidy the garden at Torrance Lodge. Irene King from Asda, visited the school during Eco week to provide workshops on Healthy Eating and Smoothie Making and has provided entertainment at Torrance Lodge trying her hand as a bingo caller. Elaine Richmond from Torrance Lodge said, “The Residents enjoy when the children visit, they spent two days with us planting our hanging baskets, weeding and tidying up an area of our garden and also making our front entrance more welcoming. The Residents enjoyed watching the children and chatting with them. With Asda working alongside us, our Residents will now have a brighter, more colourful area to sit in.” Debbie Benjamin, Principal Teacher added, “It was nice to see the children’s perceptions of elderly people in a nursing home change after spending the day with them. This link provided the pupils with reallife experiences and challenges which they have thoroughly enjoyed, developing their skills for life, learning and work.”
Sitting pretty at Queen Margaret Academy ART and Design pupils in S3 were set a fictitious brief to design a chair for the foyer of Insect World. After carrying out market research, pupils produced some preliminary sketches as to how they visualised their chair. STEM Ambassador and former pupil Sean Malone, helped pupils develop their ideas into more technical representations which were then refined and developed as finished proposals to be taken to Plastic Mouldings LTD in Irvine. Five lucky pupils had the chance to discuss their designs at the factory and have prototypes made. Pupils benefited greatly from working closely with industry - seeing the working processes behind the finished product and the journey that a design takes from the initial drawing to becoming a finished article deepened their knowledge and understanding.
Education Links
Green fingers get busy
Pedal Power THE recently launched Ayrshire charity, The Anthony Quinn Memorial Trust, known as ‘The AQ Trust’ enjoyed its first official fundraiser participating in a 56 mile cycle of Arran. The cycle team, of Irvine Housing Association staff and colleagues from partner organisation, Riverside, set off from Lamlash to complete the tour of the island, while pedestrian staff were on
hand to collect donations. The AQ Trust are delighted to announce the total raised so far is £1849.00, with donations still pouring in. Nicola Thom, from Irvine Housing Association would also like to thank Dennis Clancy & Sons, O’Neil Gas Services and Harrison Hair and Beauty for their sponsorship. For information about The AQ Trust, or to make a donation contact 0845 112 6600
Supporting mental health in the workplace MENTAL health is an important issue for individuals and employers alike. Together, we can have a positive impact on mental health in the workplace, supporting employees to remain in, or return to work, while enabling employers to create a mentally healthy and productive workplace. Our support is available to individuals with a mental health condition, who are absent from work or finding work difficult and includes • Work focused mental health support, tailored to the individual • Assessment of an individual’s needs to
identify coping strategies • A personalised support plan, detailing the steps needed to remain in, or return to, work • Suggestions for reasonable adjustments in the workplace or in working practices • Advice and guidance to enable employers to fully understand mental health and how they can support employees who have a mental health condition. This confidential and impartial service is being delivered by Remploy, in partnership with Access to Work and comes at no cost to you. Our consultants are fully trained
professionals with specialist expertise in mental health and its impact on the workplace. If you would like further information on this service, please contact Remploy on: Tel: 0845 146 0501 or email: vocationalrehabilitation@remploy.co.uk Individuals can self-refer to this service, by contacting Access to Work directly on: Scotland, North West and North East England, Yorkshire and Humberside: Tel: 0141 950 5327 or email: atwosu.glasgow@jobcentreplus.gsi.gov.uk
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THE Board of Directors wishes to take this opportunity to welcome these companies on recently joining Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Member to members discounts are highlighted. Afton Finance Solutions Ltd 15 St Andrews Ave Prestwick KA9 2DY Contact: Lynn Jess Phone: 7759716163 Accountant Business Advisor AHB Information Technology Solutions 18 Aspen Road Ayr KA7 3QR Contact: Alan Beatie Phone: 07592 538684 www.ahbsolutions.co.uk End user IT training consultancy Big Blue Dog 41 Beresford Terrace Ayr KA7 2HD Contact: Chris Kirk Phone: 01292 738565 www.bigbluedogdesign.com Web & Graphic Designers REFERRED by IOT Plc
Brass Bookkeepers Kylerhea Shiskine Isle of Arran KA27 8EP Contact: Penny Brass Phone: 07787 226 007 www.brassbookkeepers.co.uk Book-keeping services 10% Discounted Fees in year 1 Bowls Scotland National Centre For Bowling Northfield Hunter's Avenue Ayr KA8 9AL Contact: Alan McMillan Phone: 01292 294623 www.bowlsscotland.com Governing body for the game of lawn bowls
Caledonian Windows & Conservatories Ltd 13 Old Farm Rd Heathfield Ayr KA8 9ST Contact: Tommy Lynch Phone: 01292 619111 www.caledonianwindows.co.uk Installation of windows, conservatories & extensions Further 5% discount to any advertised discounts
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Cann Print Crookedholm Commercial Centre Main Road Kilmarnock KA3 6LX Contact: William McCann Phone: 01563 572440 www.cannprint.com Commercial print, business stationery, magazines, screen printing Carleton Catering 16 Wellington Square Ayr KA7 1EZ Contact: Colin McTrusty Phone: 07435 960589 www.cafecarlton.co.uk Coffee Shop & Outside Catering Carpet Care (of Ayr) 152 Caledonia Road Ayr KA7 3HR Contact: Barry Kerr Phone: 01292 263699 www.carpetcareofayr.co.uk Domestic & Commercial Carpets 10% Discount Chocolati Ltd (Above Renaldos) 98 Sandgate Ayr KA7 1BX Contact: Linda Galli Phone: 01292 265956 www.chocolati.co.uk Hand-made Chocolates Coalfield Community Transport 17 Thistle Business Park Ayr Road Cumnock KA18 1EQ Contact: Sheila White Phone: 01290 429088 www.yellowbuses.org.uk Community Transport Cool Refrigeration (Scotland) Ltd 22 Lomond View Symington KA1 5QS Contact: Alison Patterson Phone: 01563 831220 www.coolrefrigeration.co.uk Refrigeration, air conditioning, service, maintenance, repair & supply Custom Recycles 62 Kerse Terrace Rankinston KA6 7HG Contact: Paul Scott Phone: 01292 590012 www.customrecycles.co.uk Creating new low carbon products from recycled materials & low toxicity finishes
your ayrshire business summer 2012
Derek Collins Design 22 Walkerston Avenue Largs KA30 8ER Contact: Derek Collins Phone: 07780 811795 www.derekcollinsdesign.co.uk Graphic design & print Deva 27 Fenwick Road Kilmaurs KA3 2TE Contact: Jill Simpson Phone: 01563 529075 www.devatraining.co.uk Coaching & training services Dundonald Community Healthcare Ltd The BungalowDundonald House Old Loans Road Dundonald KA2 9DB Contact: Anne Kerr Phone: 01563 851430 Day Care Centre for Older People REFERRED by Dundonald House Event-Tech Exhibition Services Ltd Drybridge Park Shewalton Road Irvine KA11 5AL Contact: Hugh Dunlop Phone: 01294 312537 www.eventtech.co.uk Exhibition/Event floor coverings Garnock Top Tots 13 Glasgow Street St Columbaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Church Hall Kilbirnie KA25 7AP Contact: Marjory Riddell Phone: 01505 228426 Private Childcare/Nursery GWI Company Development Ltd 46 Ayr Road Prestwick KA9 1RR Contact: Tom Townsley Phone: 01292 478304 www.growthwithintegrity.co.uk Business Consultant Ingram Motoring Group Ltd 2 Old Bridge Road Ayr KA8 9SX Contact: Malcolm Ingram Phone: 01292 269522 www.driveingram.com Franchise motor retailer, parts and after sales
James R Shaw & Sons 41 Townhead St Cumnock KA18 1LF Contact: Stewart Shaw Phone: 01290 421421 Optometrist practice REFERRED by William H McClounie Kip McGrath Education Centre 9 Portland Road Kilmarnock KA1 2BT Contact: Frank Park Phone: 01563 535533 www.kipmcgrath Private tutoring in Maths & English to school age students Langholm Farm Tea Room Corraith Symington KA2 9AT Contact: Maureen Baird Phone: 01563 830260 www.langholmtearoom.com Tea Room REFERRED by Corton Plants Linea Construction Ltd Linea House 67D Midton Road Prestwick KA9 1PL Contact: John Fergusson Phone: 01292 678700 Building contractor for industrial & commercial sectors Live at Troon 50 Fullarton Drive Troon KA10 6LF Contact: Stephen Vallance Phone: 01292 319969 www.liveattroon.com Charitable trust to promote a music festival for Troon M J Harrison Supplies Ltd Scoutts Farm Tarbolton Mauchline KA5 5NQ Contact: Dianne Harrison Phone: 01292 541218 www.mjharrisonsupplies.co.uk Precast concrete products, drainage pipes & fittings MGM Garden Centre/Dewaldens Sprockets Cycles Peace & Plenty Ayr Road Kilmarnock KA1 5LF Contact: Craig Paton Phone: 01563 528911 www.dewaldens.com Garden centre, coffee shop, bike shop & servicing
Mossie & Kirkland Fire & Security Ltd 16 Taylor Street Ayr KA8 8AU Contact: Brian Mossie Phone: 01292 610310 Security systems, CCTV, door access, safes, installation, service, 24 hour call out Nancy Allan Hair & Beauty Largs KA30 8LN Contact: Nancy Allan Phone: 01475 676462 Hairdressing Salon REFERRED by LAH Travel Netbookit Ltd Trg House Bellisle Hurlford Kilmarnock KA1 5JF Contact: Steven Mould Phone: 01563 822070 www.netbookit.com Software & bureau services for HR Payroll & Recruitment NSDesign Ltd Hillington Park Innovation Centre 1 Ainslie Road Hillington Park Glasgow G52 4RU Contact: Gary Ennis Phone: 0141 5856390 www.nsdesign.co.uk Web design, hosting & Social Media
Nurseries Direct Garden Centre Ltd Trabboch Road Stair KA5 5JD Contact: Colin Gemmell Phone: 01292 591900 www.nurseriesdirect.co.uk Garden centre Pixel-Perfect Photography 3 Main Street Dalry KA24 5DL Contact: Arlene Kelly Phone: 01294 834515 www.pixelperfectphotography.co.uk Wedding & commercial photography
Powershift Scotland The Beeches 2 Stewarton Road Kilmaurs Kilmarnock KA3 2NH Contact: Tommy Loudon Phone: 0771 434 1577 www.powershiftscotland.co.uk Solar instllations, wind turbines & power efficiency products Radbury Double Glazing Ltd West Sanquhar Road Ayr KA8 9HP Contact: Lesley Leggat Phone: 01292 287994 www.radburydoubleglazingltd. co.uk Double-glazing Renaldos 98 Sandgate Ayr KA7 1BY Contact: Silvio Galli Phone: 01292 265956 Ice-cream & confectionery Rowallan Castle Golf Club Kilmaurs Kilmarnock KA3 2LP Contact: Christine Cuthbertson Phone: 01563 551168 www.rowallancastle.com Golf Club Rowallan Timber & Damp Specialists Ltd 19-21 Nursery Street Kilmarnock KA1 1RQ Contact: Michael Caldow Phone: 01563 529716 www.rowallan-tds.co.uk Timber & damp specialists REFERRED by Olympus Financial Services Ltd Safeguard Security Systems Scotland Ltd. 2 Balmoral Road Kilmarnock KA3 1HL Contact: Keith Muirhead Phone: 01563 523101 www.safeguardsecurity systems.co.uk Installation & maintenance of intruder alarms, CCTV, fire alarms, nurse call systems 5-10% Discount
Sleek Media Ltd Suite 1007 Glasgow Prestwick Airport Prestwick KA9 2PL Contact: David Wilkinson Phone: 01292 286246 www.sleekmedia.co.uk Online & offline sales & marketing REFERRED by Olympus Financial Services Ltd Sparndel Ltd 1 Simonsburn Rd Kilmarnock KA1 5LA Contact: Matthew Dodds Phone: 07860430053 www.sparndel.co.uk Commercial property to let Stevie Kidd Ltd 119 Renfrew Rd Mirren Paisley PA34EA Contact: Stephen Kidd Phone: 01418893896 www.steviekiddnlp.com Business consultancy, NLP training, DNA leadership & executive coaching
The Team Taylor Embroidery Studio 4 Happymills 125 Main Street West Kilbride KA23 9AR Contact: Cheryl Taylor Phone: 07738351947 www.theteamtaylorembroidery. co.uk Embroidered work-wear, team wear & promotional items The Waterside Ardrossan Road Seamill West Kilbride KA23 9NS Contact: Gill Campbell Phone: 01294 824414 www.watersideayrshire.com Restaurant
Tennamast (Scotland) Ltd 81 Mains Road Beith KA15 2HT Contact: Calum Mackie Phone: 01505 503824 www.tennamast.com Masts, antenna masts, boat cradles & trailers The Coast Clinic 24 Wellington Square Ayr KA7 1EZ Contact: Kat McGuire Phone: 01292 260968 www.coastclinicayr.co.uk Specialist in skin rejuvenation & medical skin conditions The Doggie Bag Knockshinnoch Farm Knockshinnoch Road New Cumnock KA18 4NJ Contact: Derek MacDonald Phone: 07877 081 441 www.thedoggiebag.co.uk Equine, pet foods & accessories The Fish House 21 Portland Street Troon KA10 7BH Contact: Fraser McIlwratih Phone: 01292 313179 Fish & chip shop
The Friendly Receptionist 3 Bunting Place Kilmarnock KA1 3LE Contact: Gemma Van Rensburg Phone: 07929198181 Reception & administration services
Unique Inspirations 6 At Andrews Court Saltcoats KA21 6GF Contact: Jessica MacKay Phone: 01294 466746 www.personalisedwear.co.uk Custom clothing work & sportswear Negotiable
VisitArran Brodick Isle of Arran KA27 8AU Contact: Sheila Gilmour Phone: 01770 302843 www.visitarran.net Promoting Arran as a short break destination WadesPrint Unit 1 Paddockholm Place Kilbirnie KA25 7JW Contact: Brian Wade Phone: 01505685311 www.wadesprint.co.uk Print & graphic design
Chamber Referral Scheme Over the past 12 months we have had 30 successful member referrals. Well done to our top referrers so far, William Duncan & Co. with 4 new members joining the Chamber on their recommendations. Following closely in equal second with 2 new members each; Alf Hatton & Associates, Community Care Homes Ltd. and Olympus Financial Services Ltd. The REFERRER with the most referrals up to 31st August 2012 will be announced at the Ayrshire Business Awards 2012 Dinner. Keep up the good work! your ayrshire business summer 2012
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EVENTS ROUND UP
Events Diary
Summer 2012
by Yvonne Munro Events Co-ordinator
Providing you with the opportunity to meet contacts, expand your knowledge and grow your business.
Tick Talk Speed Networking 14th June 5.30 - 7.30pm Host and sponsor: Rowallan Castle and Golf Club Cost: £15 3 Day First Aid Course Starts: 18th June Venue: Neighbourhood Centre, Shore Rd, Stevenston Cost: £216 Away Day to Arran 20th June 9.30am – 5.30pm Venues: Glenisle Hotel, Ocean Breeze Rib Sail & Arran Aromatics Cost: £32 Open Doors Day- Meet the team ! 22nd June 10am - 12noon Venue: Ayrshire Chamber Office, Prestwick Airport Cost: FREE Summer Networking and Whisky Tasting 23rd August 5.30 - 7.30pm Host and sponsor: Dewar Rattray Ltd, Kirkoswald Cost: £15
Chamber Golf Challenge 29th August 7.30am – 2.30pm Venue: Prestwick St Nicholas Golf Club Cost: £75.00 Networking and Benefits Evening 6th September 5.30 – 7.30pm Venue: The Brisbane House Hotel, Largs Cost: FREE Behind the Scenes Tour and Demo 4th September 5.30 – 7.30pm Venue: Braehead Cook School Cost: £15 Ayrshire Business Week 2012 8th - 12th October A week long programme of business orientated events including the increasingly popular Ayrshire Connections Business 2 Business Exhibition at the Racecourse and the glitzy glamour of the Ayrshire Business Awards Dinner 2012. Watch our website for details!
For more details and to book events please visit www.ayrshire-chamber.org or call 01292 678666 and speak to our events co-ordinator, Yvonne Munro. Prices shown are for Chamber members and include VAT, unless otherwise stated.
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your ayrshire business summer 2012
Networking at James Watt College JAMES Watt College hosted the Tick Talk Speed Networking evening in March, with over 30 delegates gathering for a lively session of speed networking where everyone is guaranteed to speak to every delegate in the room. The format is proving popular with our members. Karen MacKay, University of the West of Scotland said, “I felt that the framework and structure for the evening created the opportunity for a much more dynamic, enjoyable and interactive networking event, and would add that is was organised clearly to a group with so many newcomers” Our Audience with guest was Dr Maitland Mackie, owner and Chairman of the famous Mackie's, Ice cream; an entertaining presentation was given by Maitland, where he spoke of his fascinating road to success for the famous family business. Over 40 members gathered at Dr the Park Hotel to hear his Maitland encouraging and positive Mackie success story. Across the water to Arran for a working lunch with our Arran members, Will Dowson, Bank of England, Agent for Scotland, invited some of our Arran members to a business lunch at the Auchrannie House Hotel, for an update on the current trading for the businesses on the island. The Chamber then hosted Women in Business networking lunch, where a gathering of 40 enjoyed an interactive and informal lunch in the plush surroundings at the Douglas Hotel, Brodick. Back by popular demand, was our Behind the Scenes tour at GE Aviation, again a good turnout at our second tour of the factory, members were welcomed with a coffee and presentations from Alan Kelly MD, followed by a tour of the shop floor. During May, one of our Partners for Business, The Munro Partnership delivered a free seminar. Peter Leonard, presented on the changes to workplace pensions law and gave an update on the National Employment Savings Trust which covered the 7 steps employers should be taking in preparation for the new rules. Thanks to the Mercure Hotel, for hosting this event. The Bank of Scotland, another of our Partners for Business, facilitated two seminars to our members last month, both FREE information sessions provided an update on finance options to stimulate growth for business and an update on what drives today’s foreign exchange markets. Chamber Training Academy grows from strength to strength. In April the first session was on the popular subject of Social Media, Jeremy Webb, Webbactive Media, addressed the issues critical to making the most of your social media activity with real examples from businesses and organisations of all sizes. The session was held at the Carlton Hotel, Prestwick. Square Circle HR facilitated the HR session on How to handle HR Issues with Confidence. Sole Sisters, networking with a difference, an evening for the ladies. Thanks to June of Juney Shoo, Troon for hosting the evening. A great fun night of summer networking was enjoyed by our members who sipped at a glass of fizz and nibbled on delicious chocolates whilst casting their eyes round the impressive stock.