business your
summer 2016 £2
the magazine of Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce and Industry
AYRSHIRE BUSINESS WEEK 2016 Monday 3rd to Friday 7th October Venues across Ayrshire www.ayrshire-chamber.org
#AyrshireOnShow
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Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce & Industry, The Mezzanine, Glasgow Prestwick Airport, Prestwick, KA9 2PL Email: enquiries@ayrshire-chamber.org Web: www.ayrshire-chamber.org Tel: 01292 678666 President
Stuart Cresswell
Chief Executive
Valerie Russell
Development Manager
Helen McBride
MAGAZINE Editorial Content: acameron@ayrshire-chamber.org
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PARTNERS FOR BUSINESS Ayrshire Chamber wishes to acknowledge the support of the following companies as sponsors of our Partners for Business programme.
Already we are six months in to 2016 as we approach, for many, the summer break. Rest assured, however, the work of the team Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce doesn’t stop as, among many other things, they put final touches to future events such as Ayrshire Business Week in October including the Ayrshire Business Awards. I am delighted that the applications are open for the Ayrshire Business Awards 2016. The 13 categories this year will deliver a high level of applicant and I look forward to finding out this year’s winners in October. The event last year was my first major event as Chamber President and one I look back on fondly. I fully expect the quality of finalist to be just as high as last year.
then can definitely not be said for the referendum we face in June regarding the UK’s future as part of the European
“
It is our responsibility to help develop our younger people...
STUART CRESSWELL ACCI PRESIDENT
Union. For many, the uncertainty surrounding whether the UK remains part of the EU or leaves is more of a
”
Last month was Scottish Parliamentary Election, which the Scottish National Party returned a minority Government. Holyrood now has more powers than ever before and we hope the Scottish Government will make growing business and economy a priority. Ayrshire will be represented by five SNP MSPs and one Scottish Conservative - I congratulate Jeane Freeman, Willie Coffey, Kenneth Gibson, Ruth Maguire and John Scott on their respective victories and look forward to working with them as we build with the same aim of continually improving the Ayrshire economy. What felt like a low key election for
hindrance to their future plans due to the uncertainty of the UK’s position. In this edition of Your Business we report on the latest Scottish Chambers of Commerce survey on Scottish business’ support from remaining part of the EU. One of the themes I am keen to progress during my tenure as President of Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce is the development of the area’s younger people. This benefits us all. Working with education providers gives businesses the opportunity to help mould the next generation of school leavers ready for employment and add value to your business. The talent is there, it just needs to be nurtured and it is our responsibility to help develop our younger people to give them the best chance to succeed. Enjoy your summer.
YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2016
CONTACTS
MUCH TO LOOK FORWARD TO IN 2016
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CHAMBER NEWS
SUPPORTING AYRSHIRE BUSINESS FOR 70 YEARS
2017 marks a significant milestone in the life of Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce as it celebrates its Platinum Anniversary..
Finance are delighted to play our part in supporting this annual event as principal sponsors of the 2017 dinner.
To celebrate the landmark birthday its Annual Dinner will be held at Trump Turnberry on Friday 10th March 2017 with First Independent Finance as Principal Sponsor.
“The event is a key date in the business calendar and recognises the hard work and dedication of so many passionate and committed people within the Ayrshire Business Community, one I very proudly like to call home.
YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2016
Ayrshire Chamber Chief Executive Val Russell revealed: “Next year is a very special year for our organisation as we celebrate 70 years.
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“Our continued success is down to the support of our membership who have put faith in their local chamber of commerce to support their business. This is fantastic landmark and we believe we have a truly special event planned to mark our 70th year. “Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce has grown to become the ultimate business network in Ayrshire with a membership of over 800 and growing. From sole traders to multinational organisations our membership has covered Ayrshire’s
wide array of businesses for 70 years and will continue to do so for the next 70 and beyond. “I’m pleased First Independent Finance agreed to be Principal Sponsor for the dinner in 2017 and we look forward to another great night in Ayrshire’s Business calendar.” First Independent Finance’s sponsorship marks a busy period in the organisation’s recent past as it was recently acquired by LDF Group. Managing Director Allan Ross of First Independent Finance explained: added: “The Chamber’s Annual Dinner is an excellent platform to reward and celebrate our achievements with leading businesses from the area and First Independent
“Within Ayrshire we have an abundance of successful family businesses, all of which have been established and nurtured in a very talented county. “We recognise the significant contribution these businesses make to the wealth, health and happiness of the wider community - it’s what makes Ayrshire the perfect place to live and work.” As well as First Independent Finance, Barclays Bank have confirmed their position as Secondary Sponsor for the night. Val added: “Watch this space for further announcements relating to our 2017 Annual Dinner.”
The race is on to win one of the prestigious category titles at the Ayrshire Business Awards 2016. The awards, which are hosted by Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce, attract high profile industry support and this year is no different with Munro Partnership Ltd coming on board as the new principal sponsor. Managing Director, David Hughes said:“Munro Partnership is delighted to be the principal sponsor for the Ayrshire Business Awards 2016. “Last year’s event was first class and we were fortunate enough ourselves to win the award for‘Excellence in People Development’. “The entry process was very positive for our staff and the recognition for our business was hugely beneficial.Very best of luck to all the businesses who are entering this year.” This year, the judges are looking forward to finding more inspiring examples in Ayrshire’s vibrant business community that illustrate the wealth of talent and enterprise in the region. Ayrshire Business Awards are free to enter, open to businesses of all sizes and in all sectors operating throughout Ayrshire.The range of award categories has been designed to be fully accessible to all businesses. This year will see two new categories introduced - Independent Retailer Award and Developing theYoungWorkforce Ayrshire Award. It is free to apply and companies can pick from the 13 categories to enter. The award categories for the Ayrshire Business Awards 2016 are: • Developing theYoungWorkforce Ayrshire Award - sponsored by Munro Partnership • Most Promising New Business Award - sponsored by Business Gateway • Tourism Award - sponsored by Seamill Hydro • Health AtWork Award – sponsored byWestfield Health
• Innovation in Business Award – Sponsored by North Ayrshire Council • Ayrshire Food and Drink Award – sponsored by East Ayrshire Council • Apprentice of theYear Award – sponsored byTrumpTurnberry • Independent Retailer of theYear Award – sponsored by South Ayrshire Council • Entrepreneur of theYear Award sponsored by Entrepreneurial-Spark • Family Business Award sponsored by AyrshireWeekly Press • Excellence in Customer Service Award sponsored by Kitchens by JS Geddes • Outstanding Performing Business (less than 50 employees) – sponsored by Clydesdale Bank • Outstanding Performing Business Award (more than 50 employees) sponsored by GSK The Chamber Champion Award will also be presented at the Awards Dinner to the Chamber member who has given the largest number of referrals within a 12 month period to the Chamber’s membership team. All finalists will be featured in the media and the winners will be announced at the glittering awards dinner at Seamill Hydro onThursday 6th October 2016. Chamber Chief ExecutiveVal Russell added:“The Ayrshire Business Awards really do show the strength of business in the area. “The standard of applications gets better each year and it is great to see so many high flying organisations here in Ayrshire. “I’m looking forward to finding out this year’s winners when they are announced in October.” For more information on the awards and the category descriptions visit www.ayrshire-chamber.org/businessawards.asp.To request an application form please email awards@entourageuk.com detailing what application forms you require. Businesses have until Friday 24th June 2016 to submit their completed application forms.
WE WOULD LIKE TO THANK THE FOLLOWING CATEGORY SPONSORS
YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2016
AYRSHIRE BUSINESS AWARDS 2016 NOW OPEN FOR ENTRY
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BUSINESS NEWS
SCOTTISH BUSINESS KEEN TO REMAIN IN EU
The findings, from an April 2016 survey of 357 leading businesspeople, also show that individuals are now strongly committed to their voting preferences. Just 0.3% of respondents said they were uncommitted, and only 9.7% said they could change their mind. Commenting on the results, Liz Cameron, Chief Executive of Scottish Chambers of Commerce, said: “With the Scottish Elections now over and less than 50 days to go until the electorate decide the UK’s status within the European Union, both campaigns are ramping
VOTING INTENTION COMPARISON: SCOTLAND V UK Vote to leave
Wouldn’t vote
Don’t know
UK
The data on voting intentions also shows some divisions based on size and export interests. Those trading with both EU and nonEU markets express the strongest support for ‘Remain’, with the strongest levels of support for ‘Leave’ among those that either do not export or only export outwith the EU. Businesspeople representing medium and large firms are more likely to vote ‘Remain’ than those in small and micro businesses.
POLL OF SCOTTISH CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE MEMBERS APRIL 2016
54.1%
37%
0 .6%
8 .2%
SCOTLAND
SCC’s detailed findings indicate that 68.3% of businesspeople polled would vote to Remain, down slightly from 69.4% in February 2016, and 22.9% would vote to Leave – up from 19.2% on SCC’s previous survey.
Vote to remain
68.3%
22.9%
0.7%
7 .7%
up their visibility and messaging to secure the ‘business vote.’
the Remain and Leave votes, with 54% supporting and 37% wishing to exit.
“From a Scottish perspective, of those surveyed, a high number of businesses (68.3%) support the option to remain within the European Union. This position changed minimally by 1% point from the previous survey in February, whilst those voting to leave generated a 23% response, an increase of 3% from February’s result.
“The majority of businesses who took part indicated they would not be changing their views.
“Interestingly, the views in the rest of the UK are tightening, with the gap closing between
“Once the vote has been taken, we would again urge both the Scottish and Westminster Parliaments to get back to running the Country ensuring that every piece of policy and legislation is supporting business growth. Delays have already impacted our economic growth and urgent action is needed.”
YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2016
TEEING OFF TOWARD A CAREER IN HOSPITALITY
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A major initiative designed to improve young people’s job prospects has teamed up with the R&A and Sodexo at The 145TH Open at Royal Troon to offer paid work experience placements.
“Ayrshire is hosting a major sporting event and the eyes of the world will be on that. However, it is a major operation behind the scenes at an event of this scale including in the hospitality pavilion on the course.”
The Developing Young Workforce Ayrshire group is leading a project to identify and support training of 16 – 24 years old looking at a career in hospitality by giving them the chance to work at Royal Troon this summer where over 200,000 people will attend The Open from 10 – 17 July.
Chris Bray, CEO Sports & Leisure, Sodexo UK & Ireland, said: “We are very pleased to provide this opportunity for young people in Ayrshire to find a career in hospitality.
Claire Baird, Developing the Young Workforce Ayrshire Project Executive, said:
“The Open is one of our most logistically complex events, and will give young people experience working in a wide variety of roles, from serving four-course a la carte lunch in The View restaurant which overlooks the 15th hole
to offering guests a modern take on hospitality in the fun, festival style atmosphere of The Champions Club. “Along with the R&A complex, player and official areas, patrons facilities and public offerings, there are endless opportunities to help local young people find a passion in our industry.”
DYW Ayrshire are keen to hear from any local employer in Ayrshire who would be interested in recruiting a young person into their organisation. Claire can be contacted on 01292 678 666 or by email at cbaird@ayrshirechamber.org
WHEN HARRY MET SALLY
Our little Smart car, Sally, has got herself a new friend thanks to our latest Partner for Business, Ingram Motoring Group.
at Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce Helen McBride said: “We’re delighted Malcolm and the team at Ingram Motoring Group have become our latest Partner for Business.
The family business are long term supporters of Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce and we were delighted they offered Sally a new friend.
“Our new car is a fantastic addition to our marketing and makes the Chamber even more visible.
A Seat Mii with Chamber branding can be seen around Ayrshire when our team are out and about. Although we ran a poll on Twitter for a name for the new car, the names suggested didn’t quite feel right until Harry was suggested. Business Development Manager
“Thanks to Ingrams for providing the Seat Mii to Ayrshire Chamber.” If you see the latest addition to our little fleet send a picture to us via our Facebook or Twitter channels. Should you wish to find out more about becoming a Partner for Business you can contact Helen on 01292 678 666.
CHAMBER ‘STARS’ LIGHT UP THE NIGHT A team of merry ramblers from Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce were just some of the many who took part in the Ayrshire Hospice Starlight Walk last month. CEO Val Russell was joined by Tony McCafferty, Emma Hutchison, Natalie Bruce, Adrienne Howard and Sam Wallace in the fundraising walk through the streets of Ayr. Over £70,000 was raised from the night.
YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2016
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MEMBER NEWS
GROUP - 30 YEARS IN THE MAKING! It’s been 30 years since Kilmarnock based, I.T Support and Maintenance Company Microtech Support Ltd, opened its doors. With determined strategies, a quality team and dynamic leader, Microtech Support has grown from a traditional Ayrshire company to U.K recognised Microtech Group. Starting as a conventional I.T sales company, Chris McMail Group Managing Director, began his career selling I.T hardware and software. However, with ambition and a strong work ethic, Chris had no plans to remain the small start-up that began in 1986. Armed with experienced knowledge of the I.T industry and goals of reaching the I.T in Healthcare industry, Chris focussed initially, on organic growth to drive Microtech Support Ltd into a position where they could penetrate this sector successfully. As an I.T Sales, Support and Maintenance Company, Chris has always strongly focussed on providing clients with an end-to-end solution. In 2004, Microtech accomplished one of their most notable achievements to date. They were awarded the contract to provide all of Scotland’s GP Practices with a state of the art document scanning and workflow solution. Today, Microtech’s solution and processes are now a core component within GP Practices and the software forms an integral part of NHS Scotland’s strategic I.T healthcare policy. The team are responsible for supporting every GP Practice in Scotland and Northern Ireland with an excess of 20,000 users and management of over 200 calls per day at their Kilmarnock service desk. In 2010, Microtech partnered with Telehealth solutions who use technology to manage
patients with long term conditions. Evidence shows that technology can support early hospital discharge, reduced GP and hospital attendances. In 2015, Microtech acquired their Telehealth partner and this is now an important subsidiary of the Microtech Group. At the same time Microtech increased its strength in the digital arena by acquiring the staff and resources of another agency, increasing the headcount from 2 to 7 in this department. From here, Microtech Digital was born. Ayrshire Hospice Business Ambassador Chris, was the driving force in 2015 Ayrshire Business Awards winning both categories and picking up the awards for “Entrepreneur of the Year” and “Innovation in Business”.
To build the strength of the management team, Microtech has now welcomed new NonExecutive Chairman Ian Welsh OBE, Medical Director Dr. Julian Neal, Technical Director Paul Mathewson and Pete Kerly to take care of the Telehealth business. When asked about his thoughts on his 30 years in business and development of Microtech, Chris commented: “It’s hard to believe that Microtech is 30 years old! Through hard work, perseverance and dedication, I am very proud of the team and what we have achieved. But it doesn’t stop there. Our ambitions and goals are continually reassessed and developed and we are still growing. There are certainly more exciting plans in store for the Microtech Group.”
YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2016
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CHAMBER NEWS
IT’S NOT THE DESTINATION, IT’S THE JOURNEY Those of you who attended the Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner in March would’ve been entertained by a group of youngsters who belted their way through modern chart hits and a selection Motown classics. The talented performers that night belong to Centrestage Music Theatre, a Kilmarnock based social enterprise with belief that anyone, regardless of their age, background can positively benefit through participation in the arts. It was that aim that began the project exactly 10 years ago by two teachers from Grange Academy, Kilmarnock. Fiona McKenzie and Paul Mathieson both took the leap of faith and left their full time teaching posts to start a project they weren’t sure would 10 months let alone 10 years. Despite no public and grant funding, the pair set up in time for that year’s summer holidays and Centrestage was born. Fiona said: “Opening was a high point, it was an 18 week turn round from the first brick to opening. Over the last 10 years the advice we’ve had from business people in the area has been invaluable.” I enjoy so much what we do it doesn’t feel like a job. It’s not the place, it’s the people.”
Working with children, young people, young offenders, prisoners from Bowhouse, the elderly and adults and children with additional support needs no one is excluded. Each individual brings their own personality, your past is exactly that and what is encouraged is you.
From its Tardis-like auditorium in Kilmarnock, Centrestage has been running classes for all ages in theatre-related activities, including musical and technical theatre, acting skills, script writing and vocal groups. And it’s the people from all these walks of life who are involved in Centrestage making this unique community that continues to grow.
YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2016
It’s runs a number of projects that are delivered in the community using music, dance and drama as tools to improve confidence, teamwork, pride and aspiration, even in the society’s most disregarded groups. With all the projects Centrestage are involved in, there is one key component. Music. “Music is the engine that drives Centrestage. There a lots of other parts that are turning this big wheel, but music will always remain the main drive. ” I enjoy so much what we do it doesn’t feel like a job. It’s not the place, it’s the people. “The Centrestage family spans from four weeks old to 106 years. We employ 91 people and have 160 active volunteers. “Making it to ten years; it’s not the destination, it’s the journey”
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MEMBER NEWS
NEW OFFICE FOR WILLIAM DUNCAN + CO
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of changes within the business. The William Duncan + Co, one of 4 BUS Scotland’s longest established INESS introduction of a new Corporate and most progressive Chartered Advisory team in Glasgow, fuelled by the Accountancy practices and recent senior appointments of Mark Barry business advisors, opened a new office in and Jamie Beal, means the 80 strong team at Kilmarnock in April. William Duncan + Co are now able to offer the The new office expansion is one of many planned changes over the next few years, in the run up to the company’s 100th birthday. Director Graeme Bryson will head up the new office with an initial staff of 14 and look after a wide variety of clients from large corporates to small sole traders. The past 12 months have seen a number
full complement of services to clients across the West of Scotland. Graeme explained: “Our new Kilmarnock office will be a hub from where our trusted advisor relationship will be nurtured with our growing client base. Through our cloud offering we have full connectivity to our clients at all times, which allows us to plug in our specialist
services including tax advisory, payroll and virtual finance, and help to add real value to our clients businesses.” Managing Director, Robert Fergusson added: “The business has grown significantly in the past few years through a variety of new services now being offered and it is an exciting time for us. “Whilst we cover a wide geography, we do have an affinity with Ayrshire and the South West of Scotland, and will remain true to our roots. The real driver of the business is the quality of our people and the ability to deliver first class services to our clients using the modern cloud approach.”
YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS GIVEN EXPERT ADVICE ON STARTING THEIR FIRST BUSINESSES Young people looking to branch out into the world of business have being given the chance to learn how to take the first steps in their fledgling careers. South Ayrshire Council’s Business Gateway service and AMBITION programme, launched a new course in partnership with Ayrshire
College, for would be entrepreneurs.
The six-week ‘Pitches for Riches’ programme gave students the opportunity to participate in a number of workshops providing an insight into self-employment and entrepreneurship. Jill Cronin, Head of Enterprise, Development and Leisure, said, “We want to support young
people with big ideas in any way we can and this new initiative is a great way of helping develop the next generation of business talent.” The new programme got underway in April will complement the Start-up element of the Business Gateway Service and AMBITION programme in South Ayrshire.
YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2016
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MEMBER NEWS
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ISDN SWITCH OFF: FACT OR MYTH? Following on from our ‘To Host or Not to Host’ article in last quarter’s magazine, please be aware that BT has indicated that it will switch off its ISDN network in 2025.
PART 4 BUS NER IN
Prospectively, BT’s digital lines will be replaced in nine years’ time in a move from their 20CN network to a new IP-based 21CN platform. At the moment this change is still in its infant stages and its implementation is pending an appeal against OfCom’s current regulations. It is therefore not true that cancellations will occur in the immediate future; if this project gets the go-ahead, this will be a long-term, slow moving change which Halo will keep its customers fully abreast of as and when it occurs.
YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2016
A Spokesman for Halo said: “We do not want any customer of Halo
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Communications or any Chamber Members to be misled or panicked by claims of an immediate termination of BT’s current network. There is plenty of time to talk with a trusted Halo engineer and to put either an IP ready solution in place or simply upgrade your existing infrastructure.
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“For most of our client base the changes will be minimal as we have been supplying solely IP ready solutions for the last five years (see Winter 2015 edition of this magazine); and this will be true for any telephone system purchased within the last five years. We ask Chamber Members to remain vigilant and to seek advice from Halo’s trusted engineers in the first instance if you would like a free assessment of your current infrastructure or email amoffat@thinkhalo.co.uk”
OPTICIANS SET FOR LANDMARK MILESTONE Urquhart Opticians celebrate an historic landmark in August – 100 years in business! To celebrate, the team are hosting an Open Afternoon on Saturday 6th August between 2pm - 4pm at 14 Portland Road, Kilmarnock. The business is going to be making a real splash about the 100th Year Anniversary including over the next few weeks and you can look forward to a talk by local historian Frank Beattie, a behind the scenes tour of our refitted practice and much more.
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Our Business BACK TO WHERE IT BEGAN
EMPLOYERS, WE NEED YOU! Could you help to develop Ayrshire’s young workforce? We are looking NOW for employers in Ayrshire to get involved with senior school pupils on three exciting Foundation Apprenticeship opportunities at Ayrshire College in 2016/17. Your input might be a site-visit, an industry talk, supporting learners to complete an industry challenge project or placing learners with your organisation. What is a Foundation Apprenticeship? A Foundation Apprenticeship is a new two year course for school pupils working at Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework level 6 (Higher level). Young people opt for a Foundation Apprenticeship alongside their other subject choices and attend Ayrshire College part-time to complete their course. All Foundation Apprenticeships include elements of the relevant Modern Apprenticeship framework and substantial experience with an employer. Every young person must gain industry standard experience as part of the course, exposing them early on to the world of work and employer expectations. When someone finishes a Foundation Apprenticeship, they are awarded an industry recognised qualification. The opportunity of completing a Foundation Apprenticeship could lead a young person to take further college courses, a Modern Apprenticeship, a university course or a job. All Foundation Apprenticeship frameworks have been developed by Skills Development Scotland in partnership with relevant Sector Skills Councils. Why we need you Foundation Apprenticeships are key to Scotland’s Developing the Young Workforce strategy and provide opportunities for you to work with schools and Ayrshire College to support young people still at school to become work-ready. Sufficient employer input and work placements available to young people is paramount to the success of the programme and ensuring we positively contribute to economic growth in Ayrshire. Why you need Foundation Apprentices A Foundation Apprenticeship is not just about ensuring a work-relevant educational experience for Ayrshire’s young people, it is also about meeting the skills needs of your business and producing a skilled qualified workforce for the future. Involvement in a Foundation Apprenticeship gives you the chance to identify committed, skilled and motivated young people who could be potential future recruits for your company. What Foundation Apprenticeships does Ayrshire College offer? We currently offer Foundation Apprenticeships in: • Information Technology (Software Development) • Social Services (Children and Young People) • Engineering For further information on Foundation Apprenticeships visit www.ayrshire.ac.uk or email kirsty.taylor@ayrshire.ac.uk
Lucy Johnston, Bread & Butter Marketing, headed back to where she started her career at Google to teach how best to use the global search engine. A member of Google Partner Academy, she now helps Google teach more advertising agencies about how to use their AdWords
advertising platform. Lucy has been running ‘Bootcamps’at Google’s HQ in London for up to 100 people at a time, coaching people in subjects such as Mobile Advertising, YouTube and Video advertising, as well as Google Shopping.
IRVINE ROLLS OUT SUPERFAST Irvine is the latest town in North Ayrshire to gain more high-speed broadband coverage, thanks to Digital Scotland Superfast Broadband programme. Around 800 households and businesses in Irvine can now access high-speed fibre services as part of the £410 million Digital Scotland Superfast Broadband programme, building on the town’s existing fibre broadband network. Local people need to sign up for the new services with an internet service provider as upgrades are not automatic. Councillor Marie Burns joined the Digital Scotland Superfast Broadband team to unveil one of the new fibre street cabinets that will serve part of the town. Councillor Burns said: “I was
pleased to join members of Digital Scotland to welcome the arrival of fibre broadband in the town. It’s good to see this project reaching more communities and giving an increasing number of homes and businesses the opportunity to connect to high-speed broadband.” The premises in Irvine join around 9,400 in North Ayrshire which are now able to access fibre broadband through the Digital Scotland rollout. Other local areas where fibre broadband is now live as part of the programme include Ardrossan, Dalry, Kilbirnie and Kilwinning. Delivered through two projects – led by Highlands and Islands Enterprise in their area and the Scottish Government in the rest of Scotland – the partnership currently reaches more than 554,000 premises across the country.
YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2016
Making Your Business
MEMBER NEWS
MEMBER NEWS
BUSINESS AS USUAL FOR MUNRO AS MERGER ANNOUNCED Independent Financial Advisers Munro Partnership Ltd will form part of a new national financial planning firm 1825 later this summer. The business, which is headquartered in Ayr, will form a new national planning firm wholly owned by Standard Life, and 4 BUS will be the central Scottish hub of 1825. IN
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The acquisition is expected to be completed this summer, once the appropriate approvals have been finalised – including the Financial Conduct Authority’s (FCA) approval of the change of permissions. 1825, set up in February 2015 with the acquisition of Pearson Jones with offices in the North of England and Reading. Munro Partnership is the third planned acquisition and 1825 have recently announced a further acquisition of a firm in London. From a clients and professional partners’ perspective it’s business as usual. The team will be unchanged and there will be no wholesale transfer of client’s interest onto new propositions. Looking ahead clients will migrate to the 1825 proposition, only if it results in a good client outcome.
Munro Partnership Director Peter Leonard explained: “At present we are independent, however the firm ESS will be classified as ‘restricted’ under FCA rules. It is important to understand exactly what this entails. “A restricted adviser has certain self-imposed limitations on the range of solutions on which he or she can offer but it is not limited to a specific provider. In essence a restricted advice firm removes the need for the adviser to research the whole of the market before making a recommendation by establishing approved panels of products and providers from which a solution can be selected. “In practice this makes economic sense for both the adviser and the client. In fact it has become normal for independent firms to create their own panels for approved products and providers. “The new proposition will very closely mirror
the way we have always worked and we will continue to offer a broad range of choices for our clients. “Importantly we wish to stress we will not be limiting our advice to Standard Life products or investments. Indeed, 1825 are committed to ensuring the needs of the clients are prioritised and will source from other providers when this is required. There are restrictions on portfolios limiting the holding of any one provider, including Standard Life, to no more than 30%. “In a recent interview the CEO of 1825 Steve Murray was asked if he had any advice for advisers and his response was ‘Focus on long term relationships, not short term gain’. This has been at the heart of how Munro Partnership have conducted their business in Ayrshire since 1982, and it is our intention to continue to provide a first class service to the people of Ayrshire for many years to come, enhanced by the financial strength and resource of 1825.”
YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2016
MAJOR INVESTMENT SEES EXPANSION OF AYR BUSINESS
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O’Neil Gas Services is growing with the opening of their expanded showroom. The business, based in Green Street, Ayr, have invested a six figure sum to offer customers an extended range of bathrooms and fireplaces, including being a licenced trader of the Acquisitions range in Ayrshire. The expansion and investment strengthens their commitment to exploring the domestic market, as well as their commercial interests.
HOW WE HELPED PETER
to realise his fresh brand vision Following a complete brand refresh, Urquhart Opticians is well placed for future expansion. Owners Peter Telfer and Alistair Duff had a clear vision for the 100 year old business: to create a first class optical experience in Kilmarnock, Prestwick, Glasgow and Troon. Part of their business transformation involved a thorough critique of the company’s retail operations by the Business Gateway Ayrshire team. We also helped secure funding for store improvements and advised on the company’s marketing plans.
Business Gateway’s critique of my retail operation has proved invaluable. Peter Telfer, Owner, Urquhart Opticians
How we helped: • 1 to 1 business support • Specialist retail expertise • Sources of funding • Networking opportunities
To grow your business, call North Ayrshire 01294 507 857, East Ayrshire 01563 898 433, South Ayrshire 01292 427 552, or visit bgateway.com/ayrshire
MEMBER NEWS
MAKING YOUR BUSINESS OUR BUSINESS Guests at Ayrshire College’s recent annual employers’ dinner were hopefully 4 BUS impressed with what INESS they saw - particularly the involvement of the school pupils and students who gave up their free time to showcase their talents on the night.
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Making Your Business Our Business is the College’s strategy for engaging with employers and demonstrates how we can help their businesses, support more apprenticeship opportunities, and increase work experience opportunities for our students. Pupils from Belmont Academy, Kyle Academy and Girvan Academy performed a live canape cooking demonstration before the dinner in the new Learning Resource Centre on
the College’s Ayr Campus. Evan Samson, a former Ayrshire College student who is now Hospitality Manager at Dumfries House, then spoke about his journey from the College to his dream job. Evan featured in a film played during the evening to promote careers in hospitality, which also highlighted current student EmmaRose Milligan who has secured a three-year scholarship with one of the world’s best loved chefs, Albert Roux OBE. Employers in attendance were also shown a film titled ‘#ThisAyrshireGirlCan’ which highlights young women currently working and studying in male-dominated industries. The College’s ‘Making Your Business Our Business’ employer engagement strategy is available to read online.
YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2016
ORICOM MAKE SWANS TALK
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A mute swan has now found its voice at the hands of electronic communication company Oricom Ltd. The Scottish Wide Area Network (SWAN) is a communication hub used by Police Scotland, NHS and Local Authorities. Oricom Director and company founder Gavin Brown spotted this potential and put everything in place to make this previously mute swan talk. Gavin was turning over £500,000 in his Mum’s garage before the complaints of the neighbours resulted in him being offered business premises by North Ayrshire Council. Now there are three company offices in Glasgow, Edinburgh and Irvine and a turnover of 4.2million, Gavin, 39, has his sights firmly set on new business and buying his headquarters. Employed as an electrical and engineering apprentice earning 80 pounds a week aged 17 he was quickly poached by a company after a chance conversation at a football match. Suddenly he was managing 24 guys, many much older than himself. 2008 saw big players such as British Telecom leaving the market and shrinking back into using contractors instead of their own personnel. Oricom stepped in taking up the slack and importantly offering local expertise. Gavin said: “I knew the electronics expertise existed here in Scotland and
there was no reason to be using contractors far away to provide continuity here in the north. I knew if I was successful I’d want to hire people and needed to keep a skill base here to do that. It was time to go for it.” Endless 24 hour shifts followed and he had proven his point. Gavin sees it modestly as a “right time, right place”opportunity. At the same time the NHS needed all the help it could get in opening new sites in Coatbridge Airdrie and Girvan, so the conditions were right for one willing to throw everything into the pot. Now everything from IT Networks to structured cabling is offered also business mobiles and document solutions from this young company where most of the management team are in their 30’s. When doctors need to communicate about patients the NHS SWAN is a precious thing. If any of us fall ill we could all be grateful that this silent bird spoke up.
CHAMBER TEES UP SPECIAL NETWORKING EVENT
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Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce have teamed up with The Open Championship to host a very special VIP event on the eve of the historic tournament’s return to Ayrshire. “Championship Connections”will take place on the final practice day at Royal Troon and gives you the chance to get close to the action as the world’s best golfers get their final look at the course before the competition for the Claret Jug begins on Thursday. Enjoy VIP entry to the course, parking, 3-course lunch, Afternoon Tea, and complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks while you watch the world’s finest players and meet new business on the stunning Ayrshire coastline. The 145th Open Championship at Royal Troon takes place during 10 - 17 July and returns to Ayrshire for the first time since 2009 when Turnberry played host. Ayrshire Chamber Chief Executive Val Russell said: “This is a truly special event and we look forward to welcoming everyone to Ayrshire and joining us for what will be a great day.” Price for this event is £199 + VAT to any Chamber member and a non-member price of £250 + VAT and takes place on Wednesday 13th July from 11.30am to 6pm. Bookings for this fantastic Chamber event can be made via the events section at ayrshire-chamber.org
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The balgarth pines, doonfoot 6-9pm £10 per person To book your team events@ayrshire-chamber.org
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BUILDING A COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE Since its incorporation in 2003, 3b construction has established an enviable reputation for delivering quality building, civil engineering, structural steel and agricultural projects throughout Scotland. Having laid these solid market foundations, the family-owned firm sought a trusted partner to further cement its industry standing and build a platform for future growth. The remit was simple: win more large-scale construction contracts. The choice of agency was simple too: Launch. The first job was to construct an eye-catching and engaging website that 1. clearly conveys the company’s breadth of expertise and experience; 2. provides information about specific projects; 3. matches the company’s brand guidelines; 4. works on all desktop, tablet and mobile devices; and 5. demonstrates that every project is a point of pride. The result is a website, built from the ground up, which is aesthetically pleasing, easy to use and will enhance the digital
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experience of the company’s growing markets and customer base. Stuart Barr, Director at 3b construction, said: “The construction industry has become increasingly crowded over the last few years. As a result, there is very little apparent differentiation. “We recognised the need to make clear to customers that 3b construction is different from, and better than, our rivals. We also recognised that meant we needed to find a marketing partner. “Wherever possible, we like to work with local companies. And Launch stood out as the most creative local agency.” David Wilkinson, Director at Launch, added: “Everything 3b construction needs to achieve its marketing goals is here under one roof. Our marketing communications work will effectively position the company and help it build a competitive advantage in the industry.”
MEMBER NEWS
MCSHERRY HALLIDAY PROVIDE ‘A SAFE PAIR OF HANDS’ It has been a very disappointing season for Kilmarnock FC but one player has proven to be safe pair of hands throughout the season. Goalkeeper Jamie MacDonald has turned in numerous “Man of the Match” performances throughout the season and local law firm McSherry Halliday are delighted to sponsor the shotstopper’s away kit. Managing Partner James Morrison pictured with his Partners Caroline Nisbet and Martha Clark alongside other members of the McSherry Halliday team recently met Jamie MacDonald at Rugby Park.
DATA PROTECTION AND PRIVACY IN THE WORKPLACE
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The Data Protection Act 1998 (DPA) incorporates the main bulk of existing legislation on the issue of privacy at work and the processing of personal information by employers.
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The latest addition to the Data Protection related legislation arrived in December of last year when the EU Commission, European Parliament and European Council of Ministers reached an agreement on the “General Data Protection Regulation”. This regulation will inevitably mean new responsibilities being placed upon employers relating to how they deal with personal data. It’s likely these revisions will be finalised during the latter part of 2016, although the law may not come into force until a further twelve months or so have passed.
Nevertheless, employers would be well advised to take note of the likely changes this regulation will bring and prepare accordingly, even at this early stage. The huge advances in technology, internet use and the globalisation of business over recent years has placed an increased emphasis on the security of employee’s electronic data. The proposed new regulation contains a number of compliance measures on nominated responsible employees within an organisation (Data Controllers), including: Data Controllers (and those processing the personal data on their behalf) must implement appropriate security measures. Data controllers will also be required to
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provide notification (potentially within 72 hours) of any personal data breaches to both the regulator and, if such a breach puts the individual’s personal data at risk, to the data subject. A Data Protection Officer (DPO) will also need to be appointed in any organisation whose core activities consist of data processing which requires regular and systematic monitoring of data subjects on a large scale. So, if your business processes personal data, you should begin to think about planning for the changes. Is your business likely to be affected by this Regulatory change in the future? Contact Qdos HR now for a review of your policies and procedures.
GETTING TO KNOW YOU FOR MUTUAL SUCCESS Over 70 Ayrshire businesses are approaching networking in a structured way with their membership of Referral Exchange.
you can ask for leads and introductions if there’s a particular sector you want to break into. You’ll also have face-to-face sessions with other members when you can really delve into business detail.”
Reaching more targeted business leads in an environment where they’re not competing with ‘rival’ companies for the same opportunities has allowed members to gain advantage. That’s according to Darrin McDowall who runs REFX in four locations: Ayr, Kilmarnock, Irvine and Glasgow.
Meetings are fortnightly and take place in the morning before the business day begins.
“We’re providing a platform for businesses to meet and get to know each other. This inspires confidence to then pass on leads to fellow members,” says Darrin, citing the range of businesses who are members, from large corporations to single operators. “Comparable businesses won’t be around the table and you’ll have the opportunity to talk about your business to the group. When you’re pitching
Networking is an essential business activity but analysing its effectiveness is difficult in unstructured ‘social’ settings. Simply passing business cards, or trying to run through an elevator pitch before moving on, means you have no way of knowing if your message has resonated. Referral Exchange member, Brian Wade, Lead Creative at WadesPrint, added: “The members at Ayr and Irvine have given us high quality referrals generating over £10k of business in only 6 months. We’ve made great contacts and enjoy working with very helpful groups of like-minded people. We look forward to every meeting.”
BITESIZE DIGITAL Bitesize Digital, a digital and social marketing conference, is bringing together the food and drink and tourism sectors from throughout Ayrshire. Industry leading speakers will speak on Thursday 16th June, at The Gailes Hotel, Irvine, to raise awareness and develop skills to help tackle the ever-changing digital landscape. Speakers include Stephen Whitelaw of Orthic Consulting, Lesley Woods of LMCW and Gary Ennis of NS Design. Visit www.bgateway.com/ ayrshire to register your place to attend.
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INTRODUCING DYW AYRSHIRE Only 29 per cent of businesses in Scotland recruit young people directly from education. Just 30 per cent have any meaningful contact with schools, and as few as 27 per cent offer work experience placements, with 13 per cent taking on apprentices. Developing the Young Workforce Ayrshire (DYW), funded by The Scottish Government based within Ayrshire Chamber, has been set up in response to this.
The team are keen to meet with local employers to find out how we can support them to become more involved with schools & colleges to grow and develop
our young people into Ayrshire’s future workforce. For more information please visit our website www.dywayrshire.com
Greenwood Academy’s Music Technology course was presented with a cheque for £9,996 by DYW team members Claire Baird and Gillian Cameron
PUPILS HIT THE RIGHT NOTE
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How do you get five S3 pupils to work together to promote a music event at a new venue in Kilmarnock, and then get them to function as business to produce notebooks, which are made to order, in just 45 minutes?
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This was the task faced by the mentors and pupils at Kilmarnock Academy’s Entrepreneurial Awareness Day in March. Chaired by Utopia Computers’ Craig Hume, the day focused on the need to develop interpersonal skills and team work to complete the challenges set to the groups. A recent British Chambers of Commerce survey showed that 88% of businesses rate communication as the most valuable skill an entrylevel employee can possess. The day began with a speech from Craig detailing the importance of communication both within the team and with the customer.
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Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce Employee Engagement Officer Tony McCafferty took part in the event and explained: “Tasked to produce a promotional poster for a fictional music event at a venue in Kilmarnock, my team of five came together and created a poster worthy of any gig. “We discussed what artists we would have, how we would promote the gig using social media, as well as discussing the branding of our company and the design of posters.
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In the afternoon, the focus shifted to the more practical task of making small notebooks from raw materials, purchased from a ‘shop’ run by the S6 pupils, and the orders negotiated with staff. “Once the order has been place and the equipment and materials had been bought, my team really came into their own. In 45 minutes, there was only work-related chat, and every one of the group not only fulfilled their own task, but helped out the other team members where they could. I was delighted with them.”
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Tommy explained: “Throughout my week at J & A Boyd I gained a great deal of knowledge and I believe that the experience has benefited me greatly. I was unsure of what tasks I would be given and I had many prejudgments of what it would be like; busy, intense, strict and stressful but after just one day I was pleasantly surprised. The atmosphere was laid back and the staff were extremely friendly and happy to have me there. “I carried out a number of tasks including completing wills, locating files, Lands and Building Transaction Tax and I also had the privilege of visiting Ayr Sheriff Court sitting in on two cases giving me a further insight and allowing me to see something different. I feel that my time at J & A Boyd has been very beneficial to me as it has allowed me to grow in confidence, independence and self-belief, it has also given me reassurance for when I leave school and enter the world of work as I received complementary feedback.
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Tommy Smith enjoying his experience in a busy solicitor's office
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Doon Academy pupil Tommy Smith spent his work experience placement Ayr Solicitor J&A Boyd learning about life in a busy legal office.
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DYW Project Executive Claire Baird presented a cheque for £8,240 to Hansel for their Enterprising Minds project
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Largs Academy pupil Sam Templeton hopes to become an airline pilot in the future
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Sam discovered more about aviation and a clear understanding of what he needs to achieve at school to help him become a pilot one day. He said: “By completing work experience at Prestwick airport it has given me an excellent insight into the aviation industry and has also encouraged me to work harder at school to pursue my dream of becoming an airline pilot in the future.”
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Largs Academy pupil Sam Templeton hopes to become an airline pilot in the future so spent his work experience at Glasgow Prestwick Airport.
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Business leaders in Ayrshire ranked good communication skills as their top priority when recruiting young people.
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In this mobile age of text messages, Instagram and Whats App our young people have yet to develop some of the skills that most businesses still rely on including answering the telephone. Supported by the Developing the Young Workforce and the Prince’s Trust, Greenwood Academy in Irvine secured resources to develop a skills based course to form part of the school’s response. A unique practical learning unit with major Irvine employer VOCA Contact Centre was developed in partnership with the Faculty Leader of English and Literacy, Mrs Doig and now forms part of the curriculum. Pupils have been working with VOCA to develop literacy assessments which are directly relevant to the world of work, whilst adhering to SQA standards. Training was based on that delivered by
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VOCA to new staff recruits. A mini call centre has been set up in the school where 10 students gain experience by calling parents to validate details and also to promote school events. This will grow to 20 students next year. This service will be extended to other schools transforming them into virtual assistants.
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A SPICY SURPRISE? Pupils from South Ayrshire schools will be able to taste their culinary creations on the menu at Frankie and Benny’s in Ayr. The project, introduced by Ayr Restaurant Manager Iain Grant, saw teams from Queen Margaret, Kyle, Belmont and Prestwick Academy compete at Frankie and Benny’s in Ayr to be crowned winners of the Pizza and Pasta Challenge. S2 pupils from the four schools were given a brief to create a dish which was unlike anything currently featured on the menu. A semifinal was then held at Kyle Academy with a panel of judges selecting one team from each school to compete at the final. During the final the teams had the opportunity to make their dish and receive feedback from restaurant staff, giving the chance for feedback and last minute tweaks before presenting their final dish to the five judges.
Judges were presented with a pulled pork pizza topped with hoisin sauce, pasta contained inside a bowl made of pizza dough and a pizza made with twisted dough. However, the winning dish was a ‘Spicy Surprise’, a pasta dish made with black pudding and chorizo by Queen Margaret Academy pupils, Cameron Healy and Katie-Leigh Anderson. Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce Business Liaison Officer Emma Hutchison added: “This challenge was an excellent opportunity for pupils to develop their presentation, team work, organisation and communication skills. Well done to everyone who took part.”
“We are delighted to see young people benefiting from the initiative and developing literacy to advance Employability Skills”, said Walter Smith Princes Trust. At the opening of the centre Val Russell, Chief Executive of the Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce, who lead the regional DYW Group, and Victoria Edwards, Managing Director from VOCA both spoke about the significance of this development and praised the work of the school. Val Russell went on to say “Call me Greenwood is a perfect example of education, a range of stakeholders and the private sector coming together all with a common aim of supporting our young people and develop in them the skills employers are looking for. This is exactly what Developing the Young Workforce was set up to do and is a perfect example of employer engagement in action truly fulfilling the recommendations of the Wood Report. Win! Win! The students involved in this initiate have visited VOCA call centre and have all expressed interest in future employment and given the training they have received whilst as school creates a pre trained future workforce not only for VOCA but for other businesses. If your business would like to become involved in developing new initiatives to support young people into work please contact Gillian Cameron 01292 678666 gcameron@ayrshire-chamber.org
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RECRUITING A YOUNG PERSON CAN BE GOOD FOR YOUR BUSINESS Choosing experience over youth is a dilemma most businesses face when it comes to recruitment today. Munro Partnership Ltd have had experience of both scenarios and have recently been impressed with how beneficial young people can be to their business. Lauren Boyle joined Munro Partnership aged 17 with little work experience, initially working as an admin assistant in their head office in Ayr, with responsibility for day to day admin tasks such as filing, typing, answering the phones and reception duties. Today, Lauren has progressed from admin assistant to administrator and through her personal development plan has identified how to progress further to senior administrator. Administration Manager at Munro Partnership Lynne Nicol explained: “There is a pool of talented school leavers who, for various reasons, don’t want to enrol in further
education, so providing job opportunities that combine flexible training and ongoing personal development is very attractive. “We took advantage of government funding and helped Lauren gain an SVQ in Business Administration. This was only a small part of Lauren’s coaching, which took place on a one-to-one basis with another team member carrying out the training.” Lauren, now a trained member of the admin team, manages a full workload unsupervised and an asset to the business. Lynne added: “As Lauren continues to progress her career we intend to recruit another young person as an admin assistant. As part of Lauren’s ongoing development she will take the lead in providing the training and acting as their coach.” Lauren added: “One of the reasons that I love working for Munro Partnership Ltd is our strong team and work ethic. We encourage each other to develop. As a result this gives you the motivation to work hard and do well.”
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Belmont Academy pupil Emily Clark hopes more pupils can benefit from work experience
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Describing her placement she said: “I really enjoyed my work experience, it developed my confidence and it gave me a chance to experience much more responsibilities, such as stocking the shelfs and helping out the customers. “I also got to see how a pharmacy works which really interested me and any questions I had were answered. I hope many people get to have the chance to take part in placements like this because it has helped me to grow as an individual and I loved it! Jane Rorison, Pharmacy Manger, added: “We found Emily to be a delightful young person to work with. She gained a useful insight into how a pharmacy team can impact on an individual’s health and where our advice really can make a difference.
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Belmont Academy pupil Emily Clark spent her work experience placement at Oggs Pharmacy, Ayr.
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Since December 2013 Project SEARCH has been helping 17-24 year old in East Ayrshire with learning difficulties build the necessary skills for employment. Young graduates have found success in the workplace throughout Ayrshire after completing the local Project SEARCH internship which is supported by NHS Ayrshire & Arran, East Ayrshire Council, Ayrshire College and the Scottish Consortium for Learning Disability. Project SEARCH has sourced placements for those with learning difficulties and or are on the autistic spectrum to build skills for employment.
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PROVIDING OPPORTUNITIES FOR ALL During their placement, interns are supported by two part-time instructors from Ayrshire College and a full-time job coach from East Ayrshire Council. The internship involves 800-hours practical experience in various areas of hospitals in NHS Ayrshire & Arran. Since 2013, 30 interns have started the programme, many of whom have moved on to permanent jobs or further training. In June 2016, this year’s Project SEARCH interns will graduate from the programme with a range of excellent employability skills developed at University Hospital, Crosshouse. The graduates are interested in a range of careers from domestic services, care for the elderly, landscaping, groundwork, portering, catering, hospitality, customer service and administration. For more information on this year’s Project SEARCH graduates or about the project itself, please call Elaine Wright, Lead Job Coach on 01563 826245 or e-mail elaine.wright@east-ayrshire.gov.uk.
WHAT DO CHILDREN WANT TO BE? In School staffrooms across Ayrshire there’s a wide ranging debate to be had - What do children want to be? Such a discussion took place at Castlepark Primary School and so they reached out for help. During a presentation by Business Liaison Officer Tony McCafferty from Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce to the school’s staff the subject of future careers was raised. As a direct result of this the very tentative idea of holding a careers event was raised and during a consultation with Primary 7 pupils, it was
decided a careers event should be held. Ten companies with a broad range of employment prospects participated. Almost sixty young people attended and were given information and advice from each company. The staff, pupils and company representatives concluded it to be an overwhelming success however, the greatest testimonies came from the young people themselves.
MEMBER NEWS
BUILD YOUR HAPPY, HEALTHY WORKFORCE Absence in sick leave can cost employers billions, people are not taking responsibility for their own health and well-being and organisations don't have the time or resources on the wellbeing of their personnel. Ayrshire-based company Positive Pulse Scotland Ltd helps organisations ‘Build A Happy Healthy Workforce.’ At Positive Pulse Scotland we like to keep things simple, by encouraging positive change in the workplace, that supports general well-being, shapes the quality of working lives and essentially work towards the Healthy Workforce = Healthy Business Approach. Unlock the energy of your workforce, increase engagement and help your company achieve its full business potential. The wealth of business depends on the health of workers. The services that we provide are Positive Pulse 15 which checks blood pressure to cholesterol levels, Positive Pulse Events portfolio ranging from steps to deal with stress to men’s health. Monica Coyle, owner of Positive Pulse, explained: “Investing in health and wellbeing in the workplace yields at least 100% return on investment. “These benefits include increased productivity, profits and employee satisfaction and a reduction in staff turnover and costs. “Most of your workforce are interested in health and
wellbeing in one way or another; whether it’s about what to eat, lose weight, the best type of exercise, quitting smoking, how to deal with stress or understanding alcohol units. “The wealth of your business depends on the health of your workers.”
CANCER IS A BUSINESS ISSUE SCOTTISH SME TRAIL UK AVERAGE Around 750,000 of the two million people currently living with cancer in the UK are of working age and that annual cost to the economy of people affected by dropping out of the labour market is estimated at £5.3 billion.
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Businesses should be aware that when a person is diagnosed with cancer, they are automatically classified as disabled for the purposes of the Equality Act. Even after successful treatment, employees will continue to be protected against discrimination by law.
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Any organisation with an employee affected by cancer can have a major impact on the business and stretch finances. However, there can be significant benefits for businesses that support employees affected by cancer returning to work or staying in work during some stage in their cancer journey. Businesses cite higher retention rates and stronger staff morale when they take positive action. The ‘Transforming Care After Treatment’ employability project has been launched by North Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership, working with partners in the private, public and third sectors and is available across Ayrshire. Further information is available from John Godwin, TCAT Employability Project, 01294 317780.
Less than half of Scotland’s smaller firms have done business internationally against a UK average of 60 per cent, a survey has found. A YouGov survey of 656 firms, including 56 in Scotland, found 43 per cent of Scottish respondents have done business internationally. This figures compares with the national average of 60 per cent and 76 per cent in London. The survey also found Western Europe is the main focus for Scottish SMEs looking to expand internationally and almost a fifth (19 per cent) of the 56 Scottish respondent “said they rely on some form of business with the region”.
insurance
ARE YOU CERTAIN YOUR BUSINESS INSURANCE WILL PAY YOUR CLAIM? FIND OUT WITH A FREE INSURANCE MOT
You may think you know how business insurance works but would you be confident in your policy if it was ever tested in the event of a claim? You might already have insurance for your business in place but have you read it carefully to make sure it covers what you expect it to? And if you have an insurance broker, did they take the time to explain the conditions and obligations contained within it? At Murphy Insurance, we offer a free business insurance MOT, benchmarking your insurance arrangements against the most vital test – the ability to pay claims.
With our no obligation policy MOT you can expect to be given a greater understanding of what your policy will and will not do in the event of a claim. And if our report comes back with the all clear, you still walk away with the renewed confidence in your protection that comes from an expert second opinion at absolutely no cost.
Why not put your insurance cover to the test today?
01292 269 505 www.murphyinsurance.co.uk Low Green House, 20 Alloway Place, Ayr, KA7 2AA
MEMBER NEWS
LOCAL COMPANIES ACHIEVE HEALTHY WORKING LIVES AWARDS WORKING LOCAL PART 4 BUS NER IN ESS
NHS Ayrshire & Arran's Healthy Working Lives team hosted the annual Healthy Working Lives Awards Ceremony on Friday 26 February 2016 at the University of the West of Scotland. The event recognised and celebrated the most recent Healthy Working Lives award c re as ewinners and also highlighted how e .W eo f f e r businesses and companies can share c o nf i de nt i al adv c e development ideas. good practicei and
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chaired the event, with opening remarks from t ov i s i ty o ur Stevew Bell, Director ,s af e t yand e l l b e i ngof NHS Health Scotland’s Health and Work Directorate. Mr Bell outlined W o rk i ng L i v e sT e am o n: the national importance of the Healthy Working po rt : Lives agenda. He presented delegates with an overview of the importance of considering health in the workplace setting and how this i v e s . c o m can benefit businesses as well as the wider 1 9 2 2 1 1 community. Delegates heard from inspirational speakers including Martin Stepek who spoke about Mindfulness in Business: Higher Performance, Wellbeing and Contentment, and David Doran from East Ayrshire Council. Mr Doran spoke about the benefits and improvements to the council workforce since their involvement with the Healthy Working Lives Award programme. Dr Carol Davidson, NHS Ayrshire & Arran’s
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Director of Public Health, explained: “The Healthy Working Lives award programme supports employers and employees to develop healthier lifestyles in the workplace in a practical, logical way that benefits not only staff members and the companies themselves, but the wider community, too.” Dr Carol Davidson presented the awards to the following winners for 2015/16: Bronze Award • Barns Medical Practice • Belmont Academy • 101 Medical Practice • VOCA Silver Award • East Ayrshire Council Any workplaces that are interested in finding out more about the free and confidential services that Healthy Working Lives can provide should call 01292 885855 and ask to speak to a member of the team. Alternatively, you can email AA-UHB.HWL@nhs.net.
Worksmart have been working alongside main contractor Balfour Beatty to provide glazed solutions for NHS Ayrshire & Arran’s new mental health and community facility in Irvine. Throughout the construction of the £46 million, state of the art, Woodland View there was emphasis on supporting local contractors and employment to better the community with 72 per cent of funding spent locally. A Balfour Beatty spokesperson said: “We have worked closely with NHS Ayrshire & Arran and our sub-contractors to maximise the community benefits of the Woodland View project, through local employment and utilising local supply chain as well as several community engagement or benefit projects.” Worksmart were one of the many local beneficiaries and their modern apprentices were involved from the project’s inception. The company’s expertise in architectural glazing saw a combination of bespoke Forza primed timber, glazed screens (fire-rated and non) erected throughout the wards and public areas. In total over 500 pieces of glass were installed into one hundred and forty individual screens consisting of twenty three different screen types. Worksmart’s MD Steve Neilson: “This has been an excellent project for us and working closely with all involved to provide the best solutions for the client in a challenging, condensed time-scale. The involvement of our modern apprentices ensured that the pledge of ‘community benefit’ was continued while they had the opportunity to further their knowledge of complex glazing systems.”
IS ANGER MANAGEMENT PART OF HEALTH, SAFETY & WELLBEING? Karen Hoskins MIIRSM RSP, Tech IOSH, Health & Safety Manager, Ayrshire Chambers of Commerce interviews Dr. Victoria Simon, Ph.D., MFT, a Los Angeles based forensic psychologist and the Founder of JustUs (www.JustUsWorks. com) and asks ‘Is Anger Management part of Health, Safety & Wellbeing and can Anger Management help to create a healthy, positive culture within a safer workplace?’ “Human emotions are not only unavoidable, they are an essential part of peak performance in the workplace. Even conflict and anger can be productive within a corporate culture that set limits with destructive behaviors and helps
employees harness emotions in healthy, ethical ways. Past approaches to handling anger in the workplace have ignored or escalated problems, but today we see many organisations shifting toward a two-pronged approach to creating a healthy workplace culture. “A greater emphasis on hiring and training has led to improved satisfaction and performance. Companies are learning to hire with care and to provide individuals with the tools, resources, support and training to accomplish their jobs. This kind of training and support allows individuals to be more autonomous and self-motivating which, in turn, increases independent self-regulation.” Companies are also increasingly courageous
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in their willingness to address dysfunctional systems and/or office relationships, working directly with employees who handle their anger inappropriately. Employee satisfaction has a significant impact on the bottom line. By creating a culture of support and empowerment – while also ensuring a healthy emotional environment – both individuals and companies are able to reach their full performance potential.” Karen adds that by managing workplace anger and disruptive behaviors we can impact significantly upon health, mental health and safety in the workplace, as employees are more able to concentrate and focus on safe behaviors and safe systems of work in the workplace.
quickly that she embarked on her own learning journey which she continues to learn from each day. Reflecting on this experience, Jill adds: “The most important thing we can do as coaches and trainers is to help people develop confidence.
From aspiring stage star, wine importer to established business coach, DEVA’s Jill Simpson career has cast an experience some could only dream of.
“Without confidence, we believe that we will fail, and that failure is the worst thing that can happen to us. We see ourselves slipping on every possible banana skin.
For the last 20 years Jill has supported organisations both in the UK and abroad to develop their people’s potential and, recently, been involved with the Chamber Training Academy.
answerable only to my customers really appealed to me.
“If we, as coaches and trainers, can just turn the focus around a little, we can provide them with opportunities for taking the steps that lead to new skills and a fresh belief in themselves. It’s not a confidence trick; it is, when it works, a revelation, an “Aha!” moment.
“In 1996 I took the plunge, bought my first PC and took daily lessons in basic IT skills from my then 15 year old son. I also put myself through two SVQs simultaneously, reckoning that I should practise what I was preaching.”
“If I was asked why I’m still here after all this time, despite setbacks and recessions, I would have to say that it’s all of those Aha! moments adding up to one of the best decisions I ever made.
And as time passed, a career in Learning and Development progressed with Jill realising very
“What’s more, I can now switch on a PC all by myself!”
There are opportunities that don’t come twice – and for Jill was one of them. Amongst others that she let go by were a career as an actress and another as a wine importer, but as Jill adds, “there’s really no point in crying over spilled Muscadet, is there, darling?” So why become a business coach? Jill says: “The idea of being my own manager,
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CHAMBER EVENTS ROUND UP Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce’s brand of networking saw it stop off in venues across Ayrshire and into Glasgow over the past couple of months.
Studio Golf Ayrshire, Blair Estate and Cau Restaurant each hosted Chamber members for some excellent networking and fun
If you wish to host an event email Yvonne Munro at events@ayrshire-chamber.org
Look below to check out Yvonne’s Diary Dates and find out what events we got coming up and we’ll see you there!
Hilary Stewart, Group Sales Manager from RAD Hotel Group, said: “what a warm welcome I received on arriving to the event and it was extremely well attended but I left with 5 brand new contacts all of which have made appointments with myself or vice versa. Definitely looking forward to the next one!’
EVENTS DIARY DATES Providing you the opportunity to meet contact, expand your knowledge and grow your business BEHIND THE SCENES @ CRAIG WILSON LIVESTOCK AUCTIONS 14th June, 11.00 – 1.30pm Host and Sponsor: Craig Wilson Livestock Auctions £15
£199
CHAMBER TRIVIA CHALLENGE AND BBQ 21st June, 6.00-9.00pm Venue: Balgarth Pines, Alloway Quiz master: Robert Honeyman, The McKinstry Company £10 CTA- MARKETING TO THE PUBLIC SECTOR 24th June, 8.30-11.00am Venue: Ayrshire Chamber Boardroom Facilitated by CEIS Ayrshire
YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2016
£40
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VIP EXPERIENCE @THE OPEN 2016 13th July, 11.30-6.00pm Experience the VIP treatment on the final practice day for The Open Championship at Royal Troon Golf Club
Monday 3rd Tuesday 4th
£40
CTA SLAY VAMPIRES AND MOTIVATE YOUR STAFF 19th August, 8.30-11.00am Venue: Ayrshire Chamber Boardroom Facilitated by Innermetrix £40
BEHIND THE SCENES AND TEAM BUILDING @YEOMANRY HOUSE ARMY BASE , AYR 31st August, 11-2.00pm Venue: Yeomanry House £15
TICK TALK NETWORKING @ ANDREW WRIGHT STUDIOS, IRVINE 25th August, 5.30- 7.30pm Host and Sponsor: Andrew Wright FREE
SAVE THE DATES
CTA- HOW TO REACH MORE CUSTOMERS, SELL MORE PRODUCTS & MAKE MORE PRODUCTS 31st August, 8.30-11.00am Venue: Prestwick Business Centre Facilitated by Talking Heads
CTA- ACTION PLANNING FOR SUCCESS 14th September, 8.30-11.00am Venue: Ayrshire Chamber board Room Facilitated by KA Training £40
BEHIND THE SCENES @ KILMARNOCK PRISON 21st September, 11.00-2.30pm Venue: Kilmarnock Prison FREE AN AUDIENCE WITH TONY STANGER AND THE AGM 2016 22nd September, 5.00-7.30pm Venue: Aviator Suite, Glasgow Prestwick Airport Sponsor: Brownings the Baker FREE Price shown are Chamber Members rates and include VAT unless otherwise stated. To book or for more info visit www.ayrshire-chamber.org or call 01292 678666.
AYRSHIRE BUSINESS WEEK 2016 MON 3RD – FRIDAY 7TH OCTOBER
BUSINESS GATEWAY LAUNCH EVENT “AYRSHIRE ON SHOW” BUSINESS EXHIBITION TICK TALK SPEED NETWORKING MODERN APPRENTICESHIP CHALLENGE DEVELOPING YOUNG WORKFORCE EMPLOYERS CONFERENCE
Venue TBC The Park Hotel Kilmarnock
Wednesday 5th
WOMEN MEAN BUSINESS NETWORKING LUNCH
Enterkine House Hotel
Thursday 6th
AYRSHIRE BUSINESS AWARDS GALA DINNER
Seamill Hydro
Friday 7th
FRIDAY FINALE
Elliots, Prestwick
ACORN SHUTTERS AND BLINDS LTD Ayr Mr Greig Strain 01292 263503 www.acornshuttersandblinds.co.uk AQUAMOTIVE LTD Ayr Ms Marion Welsh 01292 260470 www.aquamotive.com AYRSHIRE LEAFLET DISTRIBUTION Kilmarnock Mr Ian MacCorquodale 01563 257120 www.ayrshireleafletdistribution.co.uk BALANCE HR Kilwinning Mrs Fiona Maitland 01294 692 123 www.balancehr.co.uk BITZBAGS LTD Dundonald Mrs Fiona Gowing 07896 011513 www.bitzbags.com BODYFOUNDATIONS Ayr Mr Stuart Duthie 07496 202990 www.bodyfoundations.co.uk CHEMRING ENERGETICS UK LIMITED Stevenston Ms Margo Fitzimmons 01294 487007 www.chemringenergetics.co.uk COOKSEY PIX.COM Ayr Mr Christian Cooksey 07735 347203
CROWN DECORATING CENTRES Ayr Mr Gavin Moore 01292 611811 DS FINANCIAL CONSULTANTS Monkton Mr Derek Steele 07837 263952 DYNAMO CONSTRUCT LTD Kilmarnock Mr Ian Samson 01563 556079 FLEMWELD LTD Girvan Mr Steve Fleming 07484 279834 GAVIN HOSIE PROJECTS LTD Troon Mr Gavin Hosie 07971 426414 GIRVAN YOUTH TRUST Girvan Mr Bill Logan 01465 714729 www.z1girvan.org.uk GLENAPP CASTLE Girvan Ms Siobhan Liddington 01465 831212 www.glenappcastle.com GREEN CENTRIC Irvine Miss Gemma Collins 07790 031010 www.greencentric.co.uk
LARGS MATTERS Largs Mr Ron Muir 01475 672637 www.explorelargs.com LINNPIN LTD T/A LOUNGE Largs Mr Stephen MacDonald 01475 689968 www.loungeatlargs.com MACMILLAN & COMPANY Troon Mr Gary Macmillan 01292 317585 www.macmillanandcompany.co.uk MDR GLASSWORKS Ayr Mr Michael Andrew 01292 265943 www.mdrglassworks.co.uk MINUTEMAN PRESS Kilmarnock Mr Colin McKellar 01563 550750 www.kilmarnock.minutemanpress.com OCEAN LIFESTYLE GROUP LTD Ayr Mr Ross McRoberts 0141 263 0019
HENRY BROWN & CO Kilmarnock Mr Gregor Orr 01563 522308
OOR WEE DEN LTD Kilmaurs Mrs Christine Clark 07947 926809
JUNIPER & JANE TEXTILES West Kilbride Ms Jane Hunter 01294 821 853 www.juniperandjane.co.uk
PAYMENTSENSE LTD Glasgow Mr David Reddington 0141 536 2037
NE
MEMBW ERS
PENTLAND PROFESSIONAL CONSULTANTS LTD Prestwick Mr Jim Sinclair 0781 0835 312 www.pentlandpc.co.uk PRESTWICK BUSINESS CENTRE Prestwick Mr Iain McFarlane 01292 388400 STEWART AIR CONDITIONING & REFRIGERATION Ayr Miss Katie Milligan 01292 738598 TARTAN JIGSAW Ayr Ms Ros Halley 07770 389376 THE ARTISAN LOUNGE Ayr Mr Garreth Campbell 01292 288699 THE GOOD GARDEN Prestwick Ms Jean Lanham 07598 261774 www.thegoodgarden.co.uk THE SAVOY CAFE Ayr Mr Ewan McFarlane 01292 261136 www.savoycafe.co.uk TM WORKWEAR LTD Darvel Mrs Debra Stewart 01560 320735 www.tm-workwear.com
We want to recruit more members to strengthen our business network and create more business opportunities for you. We are asking you to help by referring companies you know to us. When they join, we’ll reward you with a choice of special offers to help your business. Call the membership team on 01292 678666.
33 YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2016
The Board of Directors is delighted to welcome the following companies as recently joined members of Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce and Industry
MEMBER NEWS
NEW FACE AT THE MCKINSTRY COMPANY
Leading Ayrshire Law Practice, The McKinstry Company, have recently expanded their award-winning team with the appointment Debbie King as an Associate.
New recruit Debbie has responsibility for the management and development of the office operated by the practice in Dalrymple Street, Girvan. In welcoming Debbie to the practice, Senior Partner, Graeme McKinstry, commented: “We are delighted to have recruited a solicitor of Debbie’s calibre and pedigree and recognise that her training and early professional development in top flight Glasgow practices enhances the offering which the McKinstry Company makes to its clients.” Debbie’s particular interest lies in private client work specialising mainly in the protection of assets for families and family business succession with special attention to agriculture and related businesses. Speaking on her appointment, Debbie said:
“This is an exciting opportunity and I am looking forward to playing a key part in the further growth of an ambitious firm. “I will be able to offer clients in South Ayrshire and Dumfries & Galloway the quality of Private Client service already provided by our offices in Ayr and be able to provide family
businesses in the area with expert advice on the tricky topic of succession planning.” The McKinstry Company say this latest appointment further demonstrates their commitment to the quality of service delivery, skills, expertise and advice which it offers to its clientele.
MENTORING FOR SUCCESS
YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2016
Two special workshops held by the Business Mentoring scheme designed to improve your business have been met with great success.
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The ‘Focussed Approach’ and ‘Making the Most of the Media’ gave delegates an opportunity to learn from people who are keen to share their experiences, to inspire and offer advice on how to better you and your business. Business Mentoring Executive Rhona Brown set up the two workshops with Walter Gregg of Ology Coaching and Marjorie Calder of Ocean Blue Consulting in April and May. She explained: “The two sessions were designed to give tips on how to improve your business. Walter’s session focussed on the
individual and how they manage their day better for the organisation’s benefit, while Marjorie talked about her extensive media experience to demonstrate how you can sell your business story.” Gail Anderson, Ayrshire Cancer Support, who attended Marjorie’s session, added: “I came away with lots of hints and tips and will endeavour to find the time to put them into practice to help Ayrshire Cancer Support make
the most of the media!” Lisa Manners of Home Office Design added: “The session was entertaining and informative taking certain delegates in the room as case studies to brainstorm and show how to come up with ideas for stories.” For further information on Business Mentoring please contact Rhona on 01292 678 666.
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It’s official! The Herbary, is one of the best gift retailers in the UK. The Troon shop were among the winners in The Greats Gift Retailer Awards 2016 collecting the Best Gift Retailer of Jewellery and Fashion Accessories. The Greats Awards, now in their 14th year, were launched by Progressive Gifts & Home magazine to recognise and reward the UK’s very best gift retailers across the retail spectrum. “These dedicated awards for gift retailers have risen immeasurably in status over the years and are now universally acknowledged as being true accolades of excellence,”commented Sue Marks, editor of Progressive Gifts & Home. All Greats finalists were decided as a result of an industrywide poll of gift suppliers, reps and agents and validation by a panel of experts. The winners of this year’s prestigious gift retailing Awards - The Greats 2016 – will be revealed at an Awards lunch at The Grosvenor House Hotel, Park Lane, London, on Thursday May 5. The Awards recognise and celebrate not only the top independent and multiple gift retailers regionally and nationally, but also outstanding retail employees.
STRONG RESULT FOR WALLACE MCDOWALL Ayrshire engineering firm Wallace McDowall has reported strong turnover and profit growth for the 2015 year to December. The Monkton firm, which employs 185 staff, has expanded to offer sub-contract engineering services, including design, specialist laser cutting, machining, welding and press forming. The company notes a “good performance”for the first quarter of the 2016 financial year and went into the second quarter with a “strong order book”.
YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2016
THE HERBARY IS A WINNER!
MALCOLM IN LINE FOR ENTREPRENEUR AWARD Ayrshire businessman and SimpsInns owner Malcolm Simpson has been shortlisted as a regional finalist for the prestigious Ernst & Young Entrepreneur Of The Year Award. Simpson and his wife Karen have been key players in the leisure and hospitality industry for over 20 years. Malcolm was shortlisted as a finalist in the Scottish region of the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year award where 30 diverse businesses are represented, including companies from technology, energy and food and drink sectors. “I am thrilled to be shortlisted as a regional finalist. There are so many great individuals and companies represented from across Scotland, so to have our relatively small but proudly independent Ayrshire company listed is a huge honour,” explained Malcolm.
“Our story has been an evolving one, especially over the last five years when we have enjoyed a period of exponential growth, despite the economic downturn of recent years, and continue to bring new venues, product and service to market.” David Mitchell, director of EY Entrepreneur Of The Year Scotland, said: “From the Highlands and Islands down to the Scottish Borders, the inspirational leaders of the 30 businesses shortlisted this year make a significant contribution to the Scottish economy.” The finalists will take part in a number of initiatives in the coming weeks before the Scottish region winner will be announced at The Gleneagles Hotel on June 23rd. The regional winners will then attend a glittering ceremony in London in October when the title of UK EY Entrepreneur Of The Year will be announced.
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