Your Business Winter 2019 by Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce & Industry

business your

the magazine of Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce and Industry

SAVE THE ANNUAL DINNER DATE 6th March 2020 at Trump Turnberry

winter 2019 Â£3

Chamber News Page 16 Ayrshire Business Awards Winners Page 22

PLATINUM PARTNERS CONTACTS Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce & Industry, The Mezzanine, Glasgow Prestwick Airport, Prestwick, KA9 2PL Mail enquiries@ayrshire-chamber.org Call 01292 678666 Visit www.ayrshire-chamber.org President...............................................Lorna Gibson Chief Executive....................................Valerie Russell Development Manager.......................Helen McBride

Ayrshire Chamber wishes to acknowledge the support of the following companies as sponsors of our Platinum Partners programme. The Chamber in Ayrshire represents businesses of all sizes and all sectors and is particularly effective in representing the voice of businesses at local, national and international level. The Partnership aims to cement the relationship that companies have with Ayrshire Chamber, making sure they get the most out of membership and

in turn contributing to the work of the Chamber so supporting other business in Ayrshire. Partnership members have access to a comprehensive package of benefits, while at the same time assist with the development of the Chamber movement. If you would like to discuss the mutual benefits of becoming a Partner for Business please contact Helen McBride our Business Development Manager.

MAGAZINE Editorial.................. aclayton@ayrshire-chamber.org Ad Sales.................. lstewart@ayrshire-chamber.org Design/Typesetting............... advertisingworks.co.uk Print/Distribution............................ brown-bros.com An Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce & Industry publication. 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 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.

Making Your Business

Our Business Our Business AYRSHIRE COLLEGE APPOINTS PLATI PARTNNUM ER NEW HEAD OF BUSINESS GROWTH Making Your Business

YOUR BUSINESS | WINTER 2019

We are delighted to announce the appointment of Nuala Boyle to the newly created Head of Business Growth role.

Following a long and successful career in higher education, Scottish Enterprise and the wider charity sector, Nuala brings a wealth of experience in relationship building and income generation working across diverse sectors and geographies. Having spent several years working and living within the Highlands and Islands and Edinburgh, Nuala is delighted to be back in the West, having recently relocated to Ayr. As Head of Business Growth, Nuala will connect with businesses and

organisations across Ayrshire to promote training and wider opportunities offered by the College.

Nuala said “I’m delighted to be joining Ayrshire College at an exciting time with significant investment projected across the region as part of Ayrshire Growth Deal. I look forward to meeting businesses and organisations across Ayrshire and working with them to ensure their workforce has the skills and knowledge required now and in the future. The Flexible Workforce Development Fund is a fantastic opportunity for levy paying businesses to address training needs within their organisation and I would encourage many to take advantage of this funding source”.

The Flexible Workforce Development Fund is open for applications. Since launching in 2017, over 60 applications have been received supporting businesses across a range of sectors including SLC Turnberry, North Ayrshire Council, Spirit Aerosystems (Europe) Ltd, Ayrshire Hospice, Hillhouse Quarry, Brown Brothers Manufacturing Ltd and Sigma Aldrich Co Ltd (Merck). As the Fund is allocated on a first come, first served basis, we encourage businesses to submit their application as soon as possible. To find out more, please visit https:// www1.ayrshire.ac.uk/employers/flexibleworkforce-development-fund-fwdf/

CEO'S WELCOME

One of the most satisfying parts of my job - yes there is more than one, is helping businesses connect, support and do business with each other.

Marketplace will take your offers directly into the inbox of over 830 local businesses, all fellow Chamber members, watch out for this coming soon.

Networking and collaborating is second nature to Chambers and we want to encourage all businesses to do the same. No new business should be starting with a blank sheet of paper when there is such a range of support right on their door step. Of course I am going to say come to the Chamber but if we can’t help you directly we will certainly help you find the support you seek elsewhere and signpost you to the right person. As a growing business it could be you just want to chat to someone who has travelled down a similar path. Our Board of Directors are all happy to act as sounding boards over a coffee (or perhaps something stronger) and my door is always open to members. Perhaps it is support to increase your sales but without additional financial or staff resource. Our new Members

Having just completed business week 2019 where 1105 businesses participated in the programme of events I would like to thank each one of you for joining us and thank those organisations who led on several events including Business Gateway, ABW, Visit Scotland, Princes Trust and Ayrshire College. Power of pulling together! I had the pleasure of hosting a group of businesses from Donegal early in October and over a two day stay was able to showcase just a small sample of what Ayrshire has to offer. Images from the visit are on page 16. This was a return trip from the area we had visited last year. As part of our continued role in the Scottish Chambers International Partnership initiative we are looking to join forces with other Chambers on visits to Sweden, Florida and Georgia

YOUR BUSINESS | WINTER 2019

AYRSHIRE CHAMBER IS CONNECTING BUSINESSES

VAL RUSSELL AYRSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE CEO

USA. Please get in touch if you would like more information. Ayrshire members can participate in a national programme of trade visits and we will circulate details as they become available. While all around us lose their heads…….. let’s work together to put Ayrshire businesses on the map! #businesstogetherness #wellconnected

J&D PIERCE WINS SCOTTISH ENGINEERING AWARD Glengarnock based J & D Pierce (Contracts) Ltd has beaten a number of outstanding companies and has won this year’s Scottish Engineering Award. This overall award was for the company that has been a standard-bearer in the Engineering industry, whilst showing the highest level of excellence. At the annual awards ceremony held in Glasgow’s Hilton hotel, the award was presented to Managing Director Derek Pierce by Lindsay McQuade, CEO of Scottish Power Renewables. Derek Pierce said: “This is a testament of fantastic staff and the hard work and effort from everyone within the business. I am incredibly proud of some of the challenging complex projects that the business has undertaken throughout the UK over the last few years and the company will continue to go forward across the UK designing and building prestigious projects.” A few weeks after the Awards, Scottish Engineering invited some of

PLATI PART NUM

NER

their members and special guests to J & D Pierce’s Production Facility in Glengarnock to have a tour and a presentation given by Derek Pierce. Scottish Engineering’s chief executive Paul Sheerin added: “J & D Pierce (Contracts) Ltd are an inspiring story of a family business who have shown astonishing growth through bold decisions to invest in a strategy they believed in. Their projects continue to ensure that Scottish Engineering and Manufacturing is exemplified in the buildings and facilities used by the public across the UK on a daily basis”.

AWARD WINNING AYRSHIRE

RENEWABLE OIL SERVICES ARE AWARD WINNING INNOVATORS

AYRSHIRE’S BEST BUSINESS AWARD (0-10 EMPLOYEES)

The team at Renewable Oil Services Limited are proud to have received the accolade of Ayrshire’s Best Business Award (0-10 employees). Barry Sutherland Managing Director of ROS said: Our team work tirelessly on site and behind the scenes to deliver an excellent service to our customers ensuring everything we do is carried out in a safe, clean and efficient manner. We are delighted to be recognised for our achievements! ROS are the UK’s largest supplier of oil products and oil exchange services to the on-shore and off-shore wind turbine industry across the UK and Ireland. Using their specialised in-house designed and manufactured oil pump equipment ROS have been providing their services for over 10 years now and in 2013 became the first company worldwide to carry out a vessel mounted combined gear and hydraulic oil exchange on an off-shore wind turbine. Innovation is a key part of the business and ROS are delighted to be at the forefront of the wind turbine service industry; designing, manufacturing and operating their specialised equipment to ensure the cleanliness level of the wind turbine systems are maintained throughout the life of any operational wind turbine whilst achieving minimal down time to carry out the gear oil, hydraulic oil, glycol coolant or transformer oil flushing and exchanges, all at the highest health and safety standards possible.

As well as the supply of bulk Industrial oils ROS supply other consumable products for the continued servicing of wind turbines and other industrial applications including gearbox, hydraulic and transformer oils, glycol coolant, grease, filters, oil spill kits and much more. Recently ROS have been approached by several companies from other industrial sectors to bring their vast expertise to these new industries for machinery and system oil exchanges which they are now looking to develop over the coming months.

AWARD WINNER READY4RETIREMENT HAS BIG PLANS FOR GROWTH YOUR BUSINESS | WINTER 2019

For the second consecutive year Ready4Retirement was nominated as a finalist, this time, taking home gold for Growth Business of the Year 2019.

Ready4Retirement was established in 2016 to offer customers the best funeral and estate planning products in the UK. Our focus is our customers, their families and the people who work with us. David Nix said, “Winning Growth Business of the Year shows just how far we have come in the last year. We have established ourselves as one of the fastest growing later life planning companies in the UK. I would like to thank all of our wonderful staff for their efforts. Without a great team we wouldn’t be where we are today.” From a Business Gateway startup in 2016, Ready4Retirement now serves over 20,000 customers across the UK with a turnover of over £15m.The company offers funeral planning services as well as Wills and Power of Attorney. They now have two sites in Ayrshire, bringing employment opportunities to the area. “We are excited about the future and have big plans to double everything, and to focus on continuing to provide excellent products for our customers."

GROWTH BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARD

BUSINESS BOOSTS - STRESS AND ANXIETY MANAGEMENT IN THE WORKPLACE 28th November 8.30am - 11.00am Venue: Ayrshire Chamber Board Room £40 Facilitated by Enlighten Training CONNECT @ GG’S GAILES, IRVINE 29th November 10.00am - 11.30am FREE Venue: GG’s Sports and Entertainment Bar

CHRISTMAS with The Ayrshire Chamber

Festive Fayre on Tour Date & Time: 3rd Dec 2019 | 11AM

Chamber goes on tour for a festive feast round Ayrshire, experiencing the delights at the various venues of Costley and Costley Hotel Group.

£42

Venue: Riverside Lodge Hotel

MERRY CHAMBER QUIZMAS!

Date & Time: 11th December 2019 | 6PM

Cost (for team of 4): Member £60, Non-Member £80

11th December 6.00pm - 8.00pm Venue: Riverside Lodge, Irvine Let’s get festive! £60events, £15 For more information on or to BOOK: Quiz Master Robert Honeyman, PERthese TEAM OF 4 INDIVIDUAL includes festive cocktails, snacks www.ayrshire-chamber.org/events/chamber-events & buffet The McKinstry Co Join the Chamber team for an evening at the Riverside Lodge Hotel, Irvine for a Christmas Quiz Night, with Quizmaster Robert Honeyman of the McKinstry Company

£40

HAPPY NEW TICK TALK @ LAMLASH HOUSE 16th January 2020 5.30pm - 7.30pm Venue: Lamlash House, Newmilns

£15

CONNECT @ THE LITTLE ART SCHOOL 31st January 2020 10.00am - 11.30am Venue: Marathon House, Dundonald

Venue/s: Costley & Costley Hotels

Cost: Member £42, Non-Member £52

Chamber

BUSINESS BOOSTS - MAINTAINING HEALTH & SAFETY DOCUMENTS 8th January 2020 8.30am - 11.00am Venue: Ayrshire Chamber Board Room Facilitated by IM Training

BUSINESS BOOSTS - TOP 10 FINANCIAL SECRETS FOR BUSINESS 28th January 2020 8.30am - 11.00am Venue: Ayrshire Chamber Board Room £40 Facilitated by Action Coach

CHAMBERS’ FESTIVE FAYRE ON TOUR

3rd December 11.00am - 4.00pm Venue: Lochgreen House Hotel, Brig O’Merry Doon Hotel and Souter's Inn, Quizmas with The Costley & Costley Hoteliers

BUSINESS BOOSTS - MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS AT WORK 10th December 8.30am - 11.00am Venue: Ayrshire Chamber Board Room £40 Facilitated by Greencross Training CONNECT @ THE HEADS OF AYR FARM PARK 13th December 10.00am - 11.30am FREE Venue: The Heads of Ayr Farm Park, Ayr

FREE

BUSINESS BOOSTS - SUCCESSFUL FACEBOOK AND INSTAGRAM ADVERTISING 5th February 8.30am - 11.00am Venue: Ayrshire Chamber Board Room £40 Facilitated by Bread &Butter Marketing BEHIND THE SCENES @ EMERGENCY ONE UK LTD 13th February 11.00am - 1.30pm Venue: Emergency One, Cumnock

£18

BUSINESS BOOSTS - BIDDING FOR BUSINESS 25th February 8.30am - 11.00am Venue: Ayrshire Chamber Board Room Facilitated by SCAPA CONNECT @ GREEN SHUTTERS BISTRO 28th February 10.00am - 11.30am Venue: Green Shutters Bistro, Largs BUSINESS BOOSTS - POOR PROCUREMENT KILLS PROFIT 5th March 8.30am - 11.00am Venue: Ayrshire Chamber Board Room Facilitated by Auditel

£40 FREE

£40

Ayrshire Chamber 2020 Annual Dinner Friday 6th March Trump Turnberry

Principal Sponsor: McCulloch Rail BUSINESS BOOSTS - UNDERSTANDING LEADERSHIP AND TEAM BEHAVIOURS 24th March 8.30am - 11.00am Venue: Ayrshire Chamber Board Room Facilitated by Balance HR CONNECT @ AYR GAIETY THEATRE 27th March 10.00am - 11.30am Venue: Ayr Gaiety

£40 FREE

5 YOUR BUSINESS | WINTER 2019

CHAMBER EVENTS DIARY

If you wish to host an event email Yvonne Munro at events@ayrshire-chamber.org

AWARD WINNING AYRSHIRE

TELEHEALTH SOLUTIONS SHORTLISTED FOR AWARD Telehealth Solutions, part of the Microtech Group, are delighted to be shortlisted as a finalist for ‘Digital Solutions Provider of the Year’ at The General Practice Awards 2019.

The General Practice Awards are the most prestigious awards for primary care professionals and have now been running for over 10 years. The awards ceremony is taking place at the Westminster Crowne Plaza on the 29th of November. In 2018, Microtech were delighted to win ‘Telehealth Provider of the Year’ at the awards and are hoping to emulate their success this year. Speaking of the announcement, Managing Director of Microtech Group, Chris McMail said: “We are delighted to be recognized for our commitment to the healthcare sector and to be shortlisted as a finalist for the GP awards again this year. We

AWARD WINNING OLD LOANS INN

The Old Loans Inn is an award-winning country hotel, restaurant and bar on the outskirts of Troon and was Highly Commended for Customer Service at the recent Ayrshire Business Awards. This luxury 20-bedroom hotel is part of the family-owned SimpsInns group, who operate hotels, restaurants, bars, golf and leisure at venues throughout Ayrshire. Headed up by husband and wife team, Karen and Malcolm Simpson, SimpsInns is very much a family affair with their two sons, Lee and Jack, also working in the business after completing university studies and time spent travelling.

YOUR BUSINESS | WINTER 2019

As a family business, good customer service is vital to success at all SimpsInns venues. The Old Loans Inn is both

would like to extend our thanks to everyone who voted for us and congratulate all nominees and other finalists.” popular with locals for regular food and drink plus visitors to Ayrshire, who are guaranteed a warm Scottish welcome. The popular country pub and restaurant has an excellent menu choice to suit all tastes and budgets. Dishes are created using local Scottish produce where possible and offer a full range of tasty options throughout the day. During the summer months the sunken beer garden is a great place to enjoy al fresco dining, while private dine options are available anytime to celebrate that special occasion; birthdays, anniversaries and other family get togethers. The Old Loans Inn is also popular with golfers who come to Ayrshire to play the world-famous links courses. The Old Loans Inn was named Small Hotel of the Year in 2017, 2018 and for an unprecedented third consecutive year at the 2019 Scottish Golf Tourism Awards in St Andrews. The luxury SimpsInns property was recognised once more for excellence in hospitality and quality of service and continues to be a firm favourite with both international and domestic visitors to Ayrshire.

Christmas WITH SIMPSINNS

CELEBRATE WITH COLLEAGUES THIS FESTIVE SEASON FES T BOOK ONLINE or call 01294 204040

IVE BU

FULL BROCHURE ONLINE

simpsinns.com

16.95

FFET

FROM

AD PP PROS D GLASS O ECCO F £3 EA CH

Blue Rock is delighted to announce that we have been crowned Ayrshireâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Best Business (*11-50 employees) at the annual Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce Business Awards.

Director of Blue Rock, John McQuaid says of the win: We are extremely proud to have won this award, especially with the strength of the other local businesses in our category. Our entire team are passionate about serving the community of Ayrshire and to have our efforts recognised is a complete honour. We would like to say a huge thank you to Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce and a big well done to our team for their continued efforts.

Find out more about how Blue Rock Insurance Brokers can help you on 01292 269505 or visit us at www.bluerockinsurance.co.uk

GasSure Chamber Half Page Portrait Dec 2019.pdf

06/11/2019

09:25

INCLUSIVE APPROACH IS A WINNING FORMULA

CMY

After a record-breaking number of applications, James Frew Ltd were crowned the winners of Ayrshire’s Best Business (51+ employees) at the Ayrshire Business Awards 2019. They were also highly commended in the category of Developing Ayrshire’s Young Workforce AYRSHIRE’S BEST BUSINESS AWARD (51+ EMPLOYEES) Award. The judges were impressed with their strong performance record, their plan for continued success and the way in which they differentiate themselves from competitors. Their proactive relationship building with customers and suppliers and value-based partnership approach to developing people were central themes in both submissions. James Frew Ltd is now one of the largest privately-owned building services companies in Scotland, providing integrated property solutions, including plumbing, heating, mechanical services, gas maintenance, and property upgrades for the public and private sectors. Based in Stevenston, Glasgow and Airdrie, they directly employ over 380 people including 45 apprentices. The company have developed a robust approach to apprenticeship development based on three inter-related drivers incorporating technical skills, customer skills and meta-skills. In 2017, the James Frew Academy was established to develop their young workforce and includes bespoke apprenticeship training, employee development and leadership and management programmes.

YOUR BUSINESS | WINTER 2019

James Frew Ltd. are committed to an ethos of inclusiveness for all apprentices and organise a number of affiliation activities to develop organisational attachment. For example, apprentices participate in a “Beat the Boss” pipework exercise against Roddy Frew, Managing Director, once a former apprentice himself.

Apprentices value the support they receive from co-ordinators and managers which develops meaningful and respectful relationships. Training Co-ordinator, Elaine Kean, said: “The wellbeing of our apprentices is essential and we recently commissioned a theatre play on suicide prevention to reinforce the importance of positive mental health which was received well by apprentices and managers. We also arrange advice workshops on money management, physical exercise and healthy eating to help apprentices make more informed choices”. Roddy Frew said: “This level of positive external recognition is extremely welcomed and we are most grateful to everyone who have invested their time and expertise in contributing to our continued success”.

AWARD WINNING AYRSHIRE

AYRSHIRE SHOWBIZ GIANTS WIN CUSTOMER SERVICE AWARD When and if you ever think of West Kilbride you may well have an image of golf, a lovely coastline, Ayrshire tatties and a couple of posh hotels, but if we were to tell you that one of the biggest entertainment agencies in the whole of the UK is based there you’d have every right to be sceptical. Hireaband Ltd have been based in the village since 2010 and now have offices across the UK including a major London office, but their North Ayrshire premises on Main Street, above the former RBS remains their Head Office. Company founder Del Cotton said, ‘The entire team are from Ayrshire and based within 3 miles

EXCELLENCE IN CUSTOMER SERVICE AWARD

Proof of that is our win at the 2019 Ayrshire Business Awards where we picked up the gong for Best Customer Service – our fifth major customer service award and one we’re very proud of.’

of our office. My house is a 30 second walk away so I’ve got the world’s best commute. It’s a beautiful setting and Ayrshire is a wonderful place from which to run a business. We continue to be ambitious and have significant plans for growth but everything we do is based on our obsession with our customers.

Representing bands, DJ’s, tribute acts and even celebrities, the company looks after clients searching for entertainment for weddings, private parties, corporate and charity events – in fact anything that requires live entertainment. So next time you’re thinking of entertainment for your event, don’t look to the big city agencies, go large and contact Hireaband.co.uk – you’ll be in multiple award winning hands with the national company with a local outlook.

GOLD SUCCESS FOR ARCHITECTS! LMA Architects are celebrating after achieving Investors In People Gold standard. LMA Architects have held the Investors in People standard since 2002 and over the years has continued to invest heavily in the development of its people and culture. The Practice progressed initially to bronze level then to silver and now to the prestigious gold standard. The LMA team took a day out of the office to mark their success by holding a cultural workshop in Glasgow, followed by an afternoon architectural walking tour of some of the city’s most historic buildings, then a celebratory meal. Stephen McGhee, Principal of LMA Architects, said “We are delighted with the achievement of meeting the IIP gold standard. All the credit must go to our team who work hard to maintain our culture and I must thank everyone who gave up their time and spoke openly and honestly to the IIP assessor during the interview stage of the assessment.” He added “LMA is a culture focused business who believe that our people are our most important asset and by investing heavily in their development we have built a culture that nurtures talent in a great working environment.” Stephen said “The IIP Assessor identified a number of areas where we demonstrated very good practice across the whole business and I am specifically pleased that she identified that our culture of inclusion and empowerment acts as a strong foundation for continuous improvement and business growth.”

Key strengths of the practice the assessor highlighted in her report were: • Involvement of their people in strategy development and engaging them in its delivery. • Values are deeply embedded and are used to drive the business forward. • There is a strong culture of appreciation across the business with people feeling valued by the business. • For a smaller organisation they invest a significant amount of resource into learning and development – both time and money. • Partnership working with stakeholders and the community is core to their business development strategy. LMA Architects are committed to continual development and will be reassessed against the standard in three years’ time.

YOUR BUSINESS | WINTER 2019

MEMBER NEWS

ELECTRICAL SOLUTIONS NETWORK RECOGNISED FOR EXCEPTIONAL CUSTOMER SERVICE!

Electrical Solutions Network have been recognised for its customer service by Scotland’s largest trade association.

deservedly went to an innovative member company which is delivering exceptional customer service.

ESN have picked up an award for Best Delivery of Customer Service at SELECT’s annual award ceremony as well as being short listed for Best Medium Sized Company.

This category can relate to a bespoke service specially designed to overcome a common barrier or obstacle facing customers or to a system put in place to meet the needs of customers.

The hotly contested category highlights the principle of putting the customer first.

Based at Mosshill Business Park in Ayr, ESN are looking to grow further and continue to keep up the high standards of work that they have set the bar to already. They have invested in administration staff and train apprentices to a very high standard, this was demonstrated at the same event last year with apprentice, Stephen Berry being recognised in the category of apprentice of the year for the whole of Scotland.

Electrical Solutions’ network concentrates within Ayrshire but also operates further afield and provides a 24/7 service including electrical installation, maintenance, inspection and testing and emergency callouts to a whole host of local and national clients.

It has several clients in the leisure industry, sports clubs and educational establishments that takes them all over Scotland and North England as well as an ever-growing portfolio of local domestic and commercial clients here in Ayrshire. Iain Mason, head of membership and communications at SELECT, said: “This award

THIS PANTOMIME BUSINESS IS NOT JUST FOR CHRISTMAS!!

Started from a Dalrymple bedroom in 1996, M&M Theatrical Productions epitomise the “Ayrshire Business Done Good”!

YOUR BUSINESS | WINTER 2019

Performing Classic Literature Adaptations and Pantomimes to over 6,500 Primary and SEN Schools annually, the company continues to grow from strength to strength and are now the number 1 provider of theatre in education throughout the UK & Ireland.

This year has seen the addition of two new exciting titles to their portfolio of productions: Quasimodo, an adaptation of the Victor Hugo novel The Hunchback of Notre Dame and the Dickens classic A Christmas Carol. ‘All of our productions are curriculum based’ explains Marian Morris, Business Development Manager, ‘we are continually improving and developing our productions and teacher resource packs to reflect ever evolving education trends and needs. The introduction of Makaton and times tables to our Pantomimes this year will improve inclusivity and enrich learning for primary children of all ages and abilities.’

Such is the demand for M&M’s productions, that their Pantomime season runs from September to February, with 24 different teams each performing to at least 10 schools a week. The 12 Classic Literature Adaptations, hugely popular for their cross curricular content and focus on reading for enjoyment, tour between January and October. Every aspect of these productions and their touring schedule; from concept to design and creation, is undertaken and managed by a specialist team of 24 permanent staff, housed at the company’s premises in Ayr. These innovative and enthralling shows are then delivered to schools by a

talented group of around 100 professional actors. Exciting times lie ahead for next year, with building work already started on the refurbishment of the company’s current studio complex, to be known as The Hub; a new and unique multi-purpose community venue boasting a theatre, state of the art studios and function suite. Due for completion in spring/summer 2020, this facility will host productions and events, as well as being available for hire. Look out for more news on this in the new year. The future for M&M is looking bright… Oh Yes It is!!! www.magicoftheatre.com

award winning business accommodation with donnini, you’ll never miss a wink of sleep. experience a business accommodation solution that’s fully tailored to your specific requirements. any budget, any industry.

what is donnini?

donnini provide businesses and leisure guests with exceptional short, medium and long term accommodation. we do everything we can to ensure that our guests always experience more and provide personal and unforgettable stays throughout our collection.

how does donnini help businesses?

we know businesses have budget constraints, unique needs and forever-changing plans, but donnini are here to take away the hassle of organising exceptional accommodation that’s right for you. we listen to your specific requirements and deliver a tailored package – we call this a 'fully tailored business accommodation solution'. we strive to become your accommodation partner, we want you to trust us with any requirement that you have from one night to one year. we listen to your specific needs and offer you a tailored solution that delivers them - making it easy and time-efficient for you and your team.

where does donnini currently operate?

our current collection of apartments and villas range throughout ayrshire, glasgow and stirling – in the coming years we will expand to offer our services throughout scotland and the uk

moving forward...

we aim to become your accommodation partner, contact us today to discuss how we can ensure you experience more...

donnini are proud to be ayrshire's 2019 start up business of the year.

AYRSHIRE

C H A M B E R

O F

C O M M E R C E

BUSINESS AWARDS

2019

wake up on the right side of bed... experience more today 03300 130 882 | hello@donnini.co.uk

AWARD WINNING AYRSHIRE

INNOVATIVE SOUTH AYRSHIRE RESOURCE SCOOPS NATIONAL AWARD

(L-R): Marie Oliver, VASA Chief Executive Officer, Linda Muir, Chair of VASA’s Board, and Vivienne McNeill, South Ayrshire Life Information and Development Worker, receive the Self-Management Resource of the Year Award from Alex Neil MSP.

A unique South Ayrshire resource has won a prestigious national award for its work in helping people to help themselves. South Ayrshire Life, which is run by Voluntary Action South Ayrshire (VASA), scooped Scotland’s Self-Management Resource of the Year 2019 award at a packed ceremony at the Scottish Parliament on 8th October. The national award scheme, organised by the Health and Social Care Alliance Scotland, recognises organisations which are leading the way in helping people manage their own health and wellbeing and putting them in control when it comes to improving their lives. Professor Ian Welsh OBE, Chief Executive of the Alliance, said: “Our awards show how people and projects delivering innovative services can make a real difference in communities.”

South Ayrshire Life, which has a website and a community information centre, was up against projects from all over Scotland for the award. But the judges singled out South Ayrshire Life for the coveted accolade. The South Ayrshire Life service helps people find social groups and activities as well as signposting them to the right place when they need a helping hand. They also host more than 40 drop-in advice sessions every month at their base in Ayr’s Newmarket Street. Marie Oliver, Chief Executive Officer of VASA, is delighted at this national recognition for South Ayrshire Life.

YOUR BUSINESS | WINTER 2019

LOCAL CHARITY SECURES NATIONAL ACCREDITATION

Community Housing Advocacy Project is based in Ardrossan and provides information and advice on housing, welfare rights and debt issues to individuals in Ayrshire. CHAP has recently been re-accredited to provide advice and information on housing, welfare benefits and debt issues as per the terms of the Scottish National Standards for Information and Advice providers. The Standards are designed to assist not for profit organisations providing

housing, welfare benefits and debt advice to the public in Scotland to assess and improve the quality of their advice services. The primary purpose is to encourage agencies to adopt a culture of continuous improvement for their advice work. Accreditation also demonstrates to the public and funders that the advice service is well managed and provides good quality advice as the Standards are the accepted quality framework for agencies providing advice. CHAP secured the highest level of accreditation, Type 111, meaning

She said: “2019 has been quite a year for VASA. In August we were awarded the first Disability Confident Leader Award in Ayrshire through the government’s Disability Confident employer scheme and now we have won the Self-Management Resource of the Year award for South Ayrshire Life. “This award is a huge honour and we are all so proud of the impact South Ayrshire Life has made in the two years since its launch.” Marie added: “South Ayrshire Life is a one-stop shop for self-management. Whether it’s tackling loneliness and social isolation, or managing a longterm health condition, for the first time people in South Ayrshire can find all the self-help information they need in one place and every day people are being connected to other resources in their local community that can help them live happier and healthier lives.” that representation at Tribunal or Court can be provided to individuals requiring this. Debbie Alexander, Service Director, said ‘We are delighted to receive re-accreditation as it reaffirms that the staff team are working extremely hard to meet the standards on a daily basis which ensures that individuals receive quality assured advice relevant to their situation. CHAP is managed by a voluntary Board of Directors and is currently recruiting a small number of individuals, with relevant experience and/or a keen interest in supporting the development of the local social economy, to join the Board. To find out more about CHAP or to enquire about joining the Board, please visit www.chap.org.uk or telephone 01294 475636.

Founded in 1984, Kitchens by J S Geddes has achieved a lot in its 35 years in business. Passionate for not only design, but service and quality, this kitchen retailer are more than deserving of the accolades they have received. Being winners of the UK Kitchen Retailer of the Year award more times than any other showroom is just one of the achievements this business have to be proud of. Their senior designer, Joanna Geddes, has picked up the award for both Kitchen Designer of the Year and Young Designer of the Year at the KBSA Retail & Design Awards. Both awards sit proudly at her desk in the J S Geddes studio. Joanna Geddes said “I am so proud to even be nominated for these awards and they are a tribute to all the hard work from the whole team at Kitchens by J S Geddes. From design to install,

the whole team is dedicated to ensuring our clients expectations are not just met but exceeded. We are all delighted to be celebrating our 35th anniversary this year and it just highlights all the hard work that has been put in from the start.” The J S Geddes team are dedicated to upholding their reputation for flawless craftsmanship and luxury kitchens. Based in their Kilmarnock studio, and recently built distribution centre, the team of

more than 15, are all dedicated to providing the highest level of service from the design to install to aftercare. The commitment shown by the team, some of whom have been with the company from the very beginning, shows Kitchens by J S Geddes’ dedication to their employees and success in their development within the company. The company invest a lot of money and time into the training of their staff to ensure clients receive the best advice and knowledge available on the market. Kitchens by J S Geddes are known for the various events they host each year. This year was no different! As part of their 35th Anniversary celebrations, the team hosted their first ever CPD event especially for local architects and interior designers. This event was a great success and welcomed chef Jak O’Donnell who provided lunch for all guests. This was one of many events hosted by the company this year and they are already planning for next year’s calendar!

6 TIMES WINNER OF UK KITCHEN RETAILER OF THE YEAR

10/12 WEST NETHERTON ST KILMARNOCK KA1 4BT 01563 530838 WWW.JSGEDDES.COM

YOUR BUSINESS | WINTER 2019

KITCHENS BY J.S. GEDDES CELEBRATING 35 YEARS OF AWARD WINNING KITCHEN EXCELLENCE

AWARD WINNING AYRSHIRE

SAS INTERNATIONAL SCOOPS THE WIN FOR THE ‘APPRENTICESHIP COMMUNITY CHALLENGE’ AT THE 2019 AYRSHIRE BUSINESS AWARDS

APPRENTICESHIP COMMUNITY CHALLENGE AYRSHIRE 2019

SAS Apprentices Ben West, Lauren Gracie and Declan Milne from the Maybole office entered the challenge sponsored by ‘Skills Development Scotland’ to deliver a meaningful war memorial to the community. The project work started with a concept to design and deliver the symbolic poppy but in an anamorphic 3D format as when viewed at an alternative perspective, displays the year 1918. The Apprentices worked hard to deliver this innovative and design-led project, unveiled to the town on Monday 5th August. Following the success of the monument, our Apprentices delivered a presentation on their project and were in direct competition with the seven other entrants. Mid-September, the judges narrowed down the finalists based on three categories – biggest impact on the community, best presentation on the day and best overall learning. SAS were shortlisted for the final based on biggest impact on the community. The final took place on Friday 11th October where 500 guests attended the awards dinner at Ayr Racecourse including the Chief Executive at Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce, Val Russell.

YOUR BUSINESS | WINTER 2019

OUR PEOPLE are pioneers

Our brand is our people and SAS people are a cut above. Embracing challenges, our pioneering nature is exemplified through our people, the quality of their craft, and their determination in pushing boundaries. SAS International is a proud recruiter of our local community. +44 (0) 1655 882 555

sasintgroup.com

Lauren Gracie, Planning Apprentice, also entered the ‘Apprentice of the Year’ Award. Interviews were held at the end of July and Lauren made it to the final achieving Runner-up out of a total of 50 Apprentices. SAS International is incredibly proud of our Apprentices and to have been given the opportunity to contribute such a meaningful monument. The tribute is displayed with pride in the local community paying homage to the fallen heroes of WW1.

celebrating 35 years... Award winning legal firm, The McKinstry Company, celebrates 35 years at the heart of the provision of first-class legal services throughout South West Scotland

Formed in 1984, the business occupies the entire prestigious Queens Court House with a team of 35 comprising the Chairman, Partners, solicitors, and a host of dedicated and diligent support staff serving all aspects of the business.

The McKinstry Company has experts in Litigation, Property Law, Business , Wills and Estates, Family Law matters, effectively covering all aspects of business and family life. Substantial investment and modernisation of the ground floor reception and client meeting offices delivering easy client access to modern meeting space while retaining the grandeur of the former banking hall. On entering the office you will be welcomed by Ashley and our team of receptionists, always on hand to help you whatever your enquiry. The McKinstry Company has acquired four legal businesses, the most recent of which is the Girvan practice Murray & Tait which has allowed the practice to offer its expertise and services to existing and new clients in Girvan, its surroundings areas and Dumfries & Galloway. The provision of legal services is evolving and people in rural communities need and demand access to expert legal advice. We have the experience, people and infrastructure to provide the level of legal services that people in the area desire. This strategic development has proven to be a success with new work coming from across

the South of Scotland from private individuals, companies, farmers and charities. The Chairman and Partners believe their vision to focus on building client relationships rather than simply completing their transactions, whilst delivering a highly professional and friendly service, makes The McKinstry Company a Law Firm for Life. In the words of the Chairman;

“With our dynamic, forward thinking and a strategic approach, we are committed to our clients and continually strive to provide the best service and advice to each one of them.” Clients include local businesses across manufacturing, retail, agriculture and the service industries. we are winners of the prestigious awards of High Street Firm of the Year at the Law Awards of Scotland and have achieved a host of other accolades, including being the first law firm in Scotland to win the coveted Quality Assurance kite mark and being recognised as Investors in People. Investment in technology plays a huge part in the future development of the business with plans to work on its online communication with clients stretching from the Borders to Orkney. The McKinstry Company are also serious about delivering as stakeholders in the local community. Working behind the scenes delivering legal services to various charities including Whiteleys Retreat, Ayr Gaiety Theatre Rescue Plan and Belleisle Conservatory Limited. Providing skill and guidance through the labyrinths of setting up Companies limited by Guarantees and securing the coveted charitable status. Their there

Ayr 01292 281711 | Girvan 01465 713118

charitable efforts the business has

do not stop raised tens of

thousands of pounds with events including: Will donation scheme, the Colour Dash for Ayrshire Hospice, Zipline across River Ayr, Tough Mudder, Glasgow Kiltwalk in support of Whiteleys Retreat. Being a team with a cohesive culture, recognising the hard work which is contributed by colleagues The McKinstry Company have celebrated landmark anniversaries with team trips to Dublin, Paris, Florence and Rome. Currently plans are well underway to acknowledge our 35th celebrations and next year intend to take the whole office on a trip to a European capital. Head receptionist and social media co-ordinator Ashley Thomson said,

“We are a great team and enjoy spending time together to celebrate special occasions, in order that we both work and play hard. It’s great being part of a team and I am proud to work here in the heart of Ayrshire.” Val Russell, CEO of Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce said, “On behalf of the Chamber I would like to offer congratulations to everyone at The McKinstry Company on this landmark anniversary. A leading light of the business community in Ayr, the company has been a long standing member of the Chamber and we continue to enjoy a close relationship despite Graeme taking more of a back seat as Chair of The McKinstry Company. During his term in office as President of Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce Graeme was a driving force during our 70th Anniversary year with the introduction of a Platinum Programme of events and supporting the implementation of a new membership model. We wish the company best wishes for the next thirty five years.”

mckinstry.co.uk

CHAMBER NEWS

DONEGAL VISITORS WOWED BY AYRSHIRE SHOWCASE We had the pleasure of hosting a group of businesses who are all involved in food, drink or tourism in Donegal. The Donegal Food Coast is an award winning initiative spearheaded by Donegal Economic Development working closely with the private sector. The visit allowed us to learn what has made them successful and also look at collaborations between the two areas. Whilst only here for two days they enjoyed a packed agenda and some of the best that Ayrshire has to offer.

MARITIME MUSEUM COOK SCHOOL

AD RATTRAY

Chamber members were generous with their hospitality and time both on visits and at The Gathering which brought businesses from both sides of the water together.

YOUR BUSINESS | WINTER 2019

Particular thanks to The Gailes Hotel, Dowhill Farm, Culzean Castle, Souter’s Inn, AD Rattray, Braehead Foods and Cook School, The Scottish Maritime Museum, History Tours, and Brownings the Bakers.

BROWNINGS THE BAKER

CULZEAN CASTLE

BIGGEST EVER AYRSHIRE BUSINESS AWARDS GALA DINNER

It’s been a busy few months at the Chamber. We had a fantastic Business Week and the Ayrshire Business Awards Gala Dinner was the largest in its 10 year history. Thank you to our sponsors and all the wonderful businesses who applied. Well done to all those who made it through to the final. Thanks to Entourage UK for organising the awards and dinner and to Ayr Racecourse for hosting the event. Congratulations to all this year’s winners who can be found on pages 22 & 23. We’re moving straight onto the Business Excellence Award which is celebrated at our Annual Dinner. The closing date for applications is 2nd December and full details can be found on our website. Save the date for what promises to be an amazing evening at Trump Turnberry Hotel on 6th March 2020.

DOWHILL FARM

GAILES HOTEL

SOUTER'S INN

MEMBER NEWS

Launch Digital recently worked on the design of a new innovative children’s book, written by Lorraine Johnston, to raise awareness and funds for Whiteleys Retreat. Whiteleys are a fantastic organisation, based in Ayrshire providing free therapeutic shorts breaks for children, young people and their families with cancer and life altering illnesses.

Launch were delighted to get involved with this exciting project and worked closely with Lorraine and Maxine to create the perfect design which reﬂects the ethos and values of Whiteleys Retreat. www.whiteleysretreat.com

I can’t thank Richard at Launch enough for taking on the design project of Whit of Whiteleys Wood, and helping me get the book over the line to print. WoWW is a wonderful creation written by Lorraine Johnston and brought to life by the talented illustrator Mandy Sinclair. I hope to raise awareness of Whiteleys Retreat and the vital services we offer to families throughout the region. A children’s book will spread the word in a much more light hearted fashion and bring joy to so many young people and their families. Hopefully, we can raise funds along the way too from the sale of the book. Every penny from the sale of each book goes to charity, as these kind hearted creatives have donated their services.

Maxine Allan, Chief Executive of Whiteleys Retreat

LONG-ESTABLISHED AYR BUSINESS KEEN TO SUPPORT THE COMMUNITY

Martin & Co is a long-established business set within Ayr town centre where their prominent blue and white logo is easily recognisable. They cover all of Ayrshire and are now vested in Letting, Sales and property investment.

Following a successful rebranding in 2017, director of the branch Kasim Hussain shares his desire to work at grass roots level and help new and existing landlords build their property portfolio. Ayrshire provides a fantastic opportunity for growth investment and good rental yields in addition to being a market that is favourable for longer term tenants. This provides stability for the investor and Kasim is aware

YOUR BUSINESS | WINTER 2019

NEW CHILDREN'S BOOK FOR WHITELEYS RETREAT LAUNCHED

that in uncertain times people need reassurance of how best to invest their hard-earned income. Martin & Co Ayr are keen to support the local community and organisations and have recently invested in Ayr United Football Club. Reaching out to the local football team provided an excellent opportunity and an obvious choice. Having an avid interest in the football club, they have taken on a pitch side advertising board and whilst the team does well on the pitch it provides a real feel-good factor for the town and one that hopefully leads to promotion at the end of the season. Martin & Co Ayr has also joined

forces with South Ayrshire Toy Bank in support of families in need over the festive period. Donations of new toys and pyjamas can be made in their office. If you are unable to attend to donate items, you can contribute by making a payment direct to Martin & Co. Present landlords have already made donations which have been well received. To contact Martin & Co you can do so by emailing ayrandkilmarnock@martinco.com, by visiting their premises on 24 Parkhouse Street Ayr or by calling on 01292 619 539. Where a dedicated member of staff will be able to help you.

MEMBER NEWS

AFTER 118 YEARS, ANNIE CURRIE SPINS A YARN ONCE AGAIN AT LAMLASH HOUSE NEWMILNS

Chamber members Gordon McDonald and Johnathan Muirhead of Lamlash House Events in Newmilns, Ayrshire have recently teamed up with Janet Martin from Tasting History Ayrshire Tours (THAT Co.) to produce a 3-centre local history tour which links in with Dalgarven Mill Museum of Country Life and Costume in Kilwinning, Lamlash House in Newmilns and MYB Textiles in Newmilns. The full-day illustrative tour starts at Dalgarven Mill where there is an opportunity to see an unrivalled collection of period costume in an exhibition setting. Later at Lamlash House, Annie Currie, Domestic Servant at Lamlash House Newmilns in January 1901 is re-imagined along with Robert Mitchell, Bank Agent for the Royal Bank of Scotland in Newmilns at that time and guests are served a 3-course luncheon in the restored Victorian Parlour while listening to historically accurate accounts from the time by the animated domestic servant. The tour concludes at MYB Textiles in Newmilns where there is an opportunity to see lace weaving using looms which have been in operation for almost a century. The tour provides a narrative which weaves together a story linking the textile industry in Ayrshire with the finance and banking sector and the contribution made by the individuals who helped mechanise and hugely increase the profitability of the lace manufacturing industry in the Irvine Valley in the late 1800s.

FOURTH TIME’S A CHARM AS LARGS GETS TOP MARKS ONCE AGAIN Largs Yacht Haven has been awarded the industry’s top accreditation, the Five Gold Anchor award, for the fourth time in a row. The Gold Anchor award scheme rates the quality, level of service and overall standard of a marina’s offering. Marinas are assessed every three years meaning that Largs Yacht Haven has now carried the industry’s highest accreditation for over 12 years. Since their previous inspection, Largs Yacht

The Millers & Merchants Tour is aimed at all ages interested in costume, the textile industry and the lifestyle of a middle-class family in Ayrshire at the turn of the 20th century. Further information on the tours can be found online at tastinghistoryscotland.com/tours and at lamlashhouse.co.uk/ millers-merchants-tour

Haven has had major capital investment to ensure the marina remained at a high level. Recent investments included a new surfaced car park with a number plate recognition service for berth holders, new finger pontoons and an upgrade of all Wi-Fi hardware and infrastructure. These investments have helped ensure the marina remains an option for national and international events with various sailing fleets visiting Largs over the past few years. New for this year’s assessment, marinas are highly scrutinised over their environmental impact. Particular attention is paid to the range of events and general awareness of environmental impacts. The assessor paid credit to Largs’efforts in this area saying; “Largs Yacht Haven is a true water sports centre; a nautical village in its own right. Largs Yacht Haven and Largs Sailing Club have helped put Largs on the map as a water sports destination with international allure. Largs Yacht Haven breathes respect for nature… it is green in both the literal and

figurative sense. Environmental awareness is obvious throughout the marina, while the marina manager and marina team lead by example.” – TYHA Assessor, 2019 Marina Manager Carolyn Elder has managed Largs Yacht Haven for over 30 years. Carolyn believes this year’s accreditation is extra special due to the current economic climate; “Just like many other businesses, we’re being forced to find new ways to attract customers, while working more efficiently and ensuring our business is as environmentally-aware as possible. Marinas need constant care, maintenance and improvement so we’re delighted that our efforts have been recognised across the board.” Next year promises to be another exciting year at Largs Yacht Haven. The Visit Scotland Year of Coast And Water 2020 will coincide with the return of Fife Regatta in June, as well as D Zero Nationals, Optimist Nationals, Largs Regatta Festival and the RYA Zone Championships.

YOUR BUSINESS | WINTER 2019

MEMBER NEWS

IS YOUR BUSINESS REALLY PREPARED FOR THE UNEXPECTED? Have you ever had a morning like this?

growing their business rather than fire-fighting. We now meet once a quarter to review progress and provide full day-to-day support, in person or by phone/email, whenever it’s needed.

You receive a call. “Hi, can you help? I’ve had a terrible weekend at work, I’ve hardly slept and just don’t know what to do!” That’s what happened recently when a small business called us in a panic. Some employee issues had occurred that had seriously impacted their ability to trade. Not the kind of introduction to a new business/client relationship you might expect! After a quick chat over a coffee we quickly got to the bottom of the issue… and an understanding of why such issues had occurred and how they could so easily have been avoided. It is fair to say the real underlying issue was in not being prepared and having the right employee ‘checks and balances’ in place. Our ‘new’ client had some serious gaps with

Chamber members Indigo Black have many years expertise in all areas of HR and can help you avoid those ‘sleepless nights’. ANDY AND LINDA MCFARLANE AT INDIGO BLACK CONSULTING

their employee contracts, policies and processes, but by offering and undertaking a full, but simple HR health-check and helping them address these gaps, we were able to assist them to fully understand their issues and how we could help them prepare for and prevent in the future. Result: one delighted business owner, who now has the time back to focus on running and

How well is your health & wellbeing strategy working? Presenteeism is a real issue affecting staff across a wide range of industries. It’s where staff are at work in body, but not in mind due to a range of issues including struggling with their work pressures, stress, anxiety and a lack of sleep. It's estimated that presenteeism is now costing businesses up to three times more than absenteeism.*

YOUR BUSINESS | WINTER 2019

At Westfield Health we believe it’s time for change.

Andy says. “What sets us apart is that we don’t deal with HR and Business in ‘silos’… ultimately business is people and people are business! We can help with both.” “We work with clients, offering retained support, plus options for bespoke, one off pieces of work. It’s a ‘pick ‘n mix’ offer… you decide, we provide! “ For a no obligation chat call Linda 07577 660590 or Andy 07828 706181 www.indigoblack.co.uk

HE WASN’T FULLY IN THE MEETING

When you begin to truly believe in the physical and emotional wellbeing of your staff it can completely transform the face of your business, improve productivity and create a positive working environment, helping you retain staff and making you a desirable place for prospective employees to work. To find out more visit westfieldhealth.com/chamber

PLATI PART NUM

NER

*Source: Deloitte UK Mental Health Monitor, October 2017

MEMBER NEWS Referral Scheme

MR STEVEN EDMUND, MANAGING DIRECTOR, AMPCONTROL UK AND STUART CRESSWELL, ABP PORT MANAGER AT AYR AND TROON SHAKE HANDS TO CELEBRATE NEW PARTNERSHIP

Associated British Ports (ABP) is pleased to announce a new partnership with electrical engineering specialists Ampcontrol, a company with a long and proud Scottish heritage, which will see it invest in a new facility at the Port of Ayr. Ampcontrol is a world renowned manufacturer of integrated electrical, electronic and control equipment, which is used to improve safety and efficiency in mining, renewable, infrastructure and industrial applications. Its new base at ABP’s Port of Ayr marks the latest chapter in its success, following the opening of a facility in Prestwick in 2018. The new partnership will see the total refurbishment of a building located at the Port of Ayr as well as further enhancements to facilities at the port. Steven Edmund, Managing Director of Ampcontrol UK, said “The new facility is a real testament to our team as we have continued to successfully execute our strategy to grow and diversify our business. Using our core electrical engineering and manufacturing capabilities to solve complex problems for new and existing customers is part of our DNA, and this new facility will increase our ability to do just that.”

Rewarding You for Championing Your Chamber

How itit works: works: How it works:

Recruitingmore more members members strengthens business network Recruiting strengthensyour your business network andcreates creates more forfor you. and more business businessopportunities opportunities you. Recruiting more members strengthens your business network and creates more business opportunities for you.

We’re askingyou youto tohelp help by by referring know to to us.us. When theythey join,join, We’re asking referringcompanies companiesyou you know When we’ll rewardyou you with aa choice choice of offers discounts to help your business. we’ll reward of free free offersand andyou discounts your We’re asking youwith to help by referring companies know to to us.help When theybusiness. join, we’ll reward you with a choice of Choose free offers and discounts to help your business. from:

Choose from:

from: A free ticket to the AnnualChoose Dinner or the Ayrshire Business Awards

A free ticket to the Annual Dinner or the Ayrshire Business Awards A free 50% ticket toathe Dinner the Business’ Ayrshire Business Awards off fullAnnual page advert inor ‘Your magazine

50% off a full page advert in ‘Your Business’ magazine 50%off offyour a fullannual page advert in ‘Yourfee Business’ magazine 50% membership (conditions apply)

50% off your annual membership fee (conditions apply) 50% off your annual fee (conditions apply) PLUS whenmembership you refer new members, you’ll bePLUS entered for you the Chamber Award. when refer newChampion members, PLUS when you refer new members, you’ll forthe theChamber ChamberChampion Champion Award. you’llbe be entered entered for Award.

Visit www.ayrshire-chamber.org click on

Referral Scheme and start referring now. Visit www.ayrshire-chamber.org click Visit www.ayrshire-chamber.org click onon Referral andstart startreferring referring now. Referral Scheme Scheme and now.

In 2018, the company celebrated the 100th anniversary since it was founded under the name Wallacetown Engineering Company Limited by hardworking locals in the area. Today it continues its legacy of delivering excellence in design, workmanship and reliability of its products which perform across the world. Stuart Cresswell, ABP Port Manager at Ayr and Troon, said: “We’re pleased to be welcome Steve and all of his team at Ampcontrol to our Port of Ayr. Many locals will recall that they have had a long history of supporting the town’s industry and we look forward to working with them on this new development, which is another positive step towards ensuring future economic prosperity of the region.” www.abports.co.uk

For further information on our Referral Scheme call Helen McBride on 01292 678666 email hmcbride@ayrshire-chamber.org For further information on our Referral Scheme call Helen McBride on 01292 678666 email hmcbride@ayrshire-chamber.org

For further information on our Referral Scheme call Helen McBride on 01292 678666 email hmcbride@ayrshire-chamber.org

YOUR BUSINESS | WINTER 2019

PORT OF AYR PARTNERS WITH SCOTTISH MANUFACTURING PIONEER

OVER 500 GUESTS CELEBRATED WINNER: EGGER (UK) LIMITED

DEVELOPING AYRSHIRE'S YOUNG WORKFORCE AWARD

Sponsored by GSK

HIGHLY COMMENDED: GOLPHIN LTD

HIGHLY COMMENDED: MERCK

YOUR BUSINESS | WINTER 2019

AYRSHIRE’S FINEST BUSINESSES

CO-INNOVATE — INNOVATION The Co-Innovate programme, which is supported by the European Union's INTERREG VA Programme, managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), aims to increase the number of businesses participating in cross-border research and development projects. The Co-Innovate initiative was launched in 2017, and since then has helped over 1100 companies through innovation workshops, mentoring and project funding. Co-Innovate operates in Northern Ireland, the six border counties of the Republic of Ireland, and in areas of Western Scotland.

YOUR BUSINESS | WINTER 2019

One aspect of the programme, Business-with-Academia is a three way partnership between Companies, Academic Institutes and Project Managers to deliver a 12 month research and innovation project. SMEs can receive funding to undertake a crossborder research project to develop a new product, service or process for the business, while also developing their knowledge and innovation capabilities in the process.

There have been a wide variety of projects funded, covering different areas within the manufacturing or tradable services sectors, and the collaborations are designed to improve companies’ competitiveness, productivity and profitability.

Case Study 1 Utopia Computers Utopia Computers is a computer manufacturer based in Kilmarnock, grown from a family computer sales and repair shop, and the company now specialises in bespoke, high-performance computers.

they fund 50 per cent of the cost of a new member of staff for 12 months to work on the project with the right mix of skills and experience to deliver such a project. They also would allow us to access academic expertise from the Letterkenny Institute of Technology, ensuring our plans took advantage of the latest trends and technologies available.

Customers include Virtual Reality hardware and software companies, 3D animation firms, Graphic Designers, Engineering firms, Gamers, Financial companies and Scientific research organisations. Craig Hume is MD of Utopia and his company has benefited from support by the Co-Innovate programme.

“The project is going to result in significant process efficiencies within Utopia, and free up staff members to concentrate on higher value-add work rather than the administration of ordering stock, manually updating customers on the progress of an order, producing invoices and so on. This automation of repetitive tasks will allow us to realise our substantial growth projections for the coming years.

“We knew our internal processes were limiting our growth. We had developed a plan to produce a contemporary cloud-based IT solution that would see these processes streamlined. However, while we could envisage the answer, we didn't have the in-house skills to develop it nor could we find an off the shelf solution that would work. Co-Innovate seemed like a perfect fit for us. Not only could

“The whole experience so far has been incredibly smooth. The team at Co-Innovate has helped guide us through the entire process. I would urge any business who has an idea that could benefit from funding and academic skills to contact CoInnovate. Without them, we would not have been able to take on such a large project, and our plans may never have become a reality. I can’t wait to see the results. ”

The Co-Innovate team can also help companies to find the best Academic Partner for their project needs. If you have an idea to develop a new product, process or service, and collaborating with an Academic Partner with salary support for a 12 month Intern would benefit the project development, please email stacey.neville@scotent.co.uk

www.co-innovateprogramme.eu

THROUGH PARTNERSHIPS

YOUR BUSINESS | WINTER 2019

Case Study 2 RUA Medical RUA Medical is a fullservice custom contract manufacturer of medical devices, with a specialty in medical implantable fabrics. Founded in 2004 by David Richmond, David brought with him five generations of textile manufacturing expertise. The business has two premises in Ayrshire, with four cleanroom suites and 22 skilled employees. As an ISO 13485:2016 certified and FDAregistered manufacturer, it offers customers a high quality, bespoke experience, and has partnered with world-leading medical device and biotech companies to provide technologically innovative products that can deliver lifesaving and life enhancing solutions The business has received ongoing support from the Co-Innovate

programme to help to create the best culture of innovation, formal idea generation to connect with core strategy and vision for the company and how to increase capacity to expand their business offering. A core growth project was identified to develop coating technologies in the application of implantable fabrics, and the company are now embarking on a 12-month collaborative project to develop this offering with the Institute of Sligo. RUA Medical is the first Scottish company to commence a business-to-academia funded project with Co-Innovate and it is providing the company with access to world class academic/technological expertise and testing facilities, as well as additional resource through recruitment of an R&D engineering graduate. David Richmond, RUA Medical Global Business Development Director, said: “The support from Co-Innovate

Co-Innovate is supported by the EU’s INTERREG VA Programme, managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB)

has allowed us to accelerate a core innovation project to expand our business offering, enabling us to attract a wider range of customers and penetrate new export markets. It has also helped us focus on the right steps, as well as strategic enablers, to secure our future growth. I’d highly recommend Co-Innovate, it has helped bring everything together for us.”

MEMBER NEWS

THE IRIS: A BRAND NEW MULTI ARTS VENUE IN THE HEART OF AYR

AYRSHIRE ALIGNMENT ARE KEEPING YOU SAFE ON THE ROAD Robert didn't invent the wheel, but he probably knows more about it than the guy who did!! Is your car pulling to the left? If you said yes to the question its little wonder with the number of potholes on our roads. Your problem though is not only the car not behaving as it should but the excessive tyre wear that is being cause. Here are three reasons why you should urgently check your wheel alignment. • Keep yourself and passengers safe – It is dangerous, every inch your vehicle is out of alignment is the equivalent to dragging the tyre sideways at 11 ft per mile!!

YOUR BUSINESS | WINTER 2019

After 10 years of lying unused, the Darlington Church on Ayr’s Main Street is being brought back to life as THE IRIS, a dedicated community entertainment building that will function as a community cinema, community theatre and live music venue.

The Iris is the brainchild of Ross Hunter and Kelly Craig, two Ayrshire based entrepreneurs with a wealth of experience in bringing arts and entertainment to various communities across Scotland. Kelly is a theatre writer and has produced and toured several of her own productions over the last 15 years. Ross is a filmmaker and successfully runs the acclaimed Seamore Neighbourhood Cinema in Glasgow’s West End. Their aim is to bring affordable entertainment and exciting opportunities to South Ayrshire. The cinema will give audiences the opportunity to have a real say in what goes on their big screen, showcasing classics, underrated gems, family favourites, socially motivating documentaries and the best of Scottish filmmaking talent. The theatre will bring the best of Scottish drama and deliver opportunities for local playwrights to showcase their work in a space that has played

• Safety again – if your wheels are not properly aligned you will take longer to stop especially in wet conditions.

host to stars such as Robbie Coltrane, Elaine C Smith, Gerard Kelly and Craig Ferguson. And a town with the musical heritage of Ayr will have a dedicated live music space where local musicians and established acts alike can develop their craft and bring the vibrancy that live music provides to a town. To drive this project forward we are reaching out to the community and local businesses to support it as the team has inherited the problems that come with opening an underused building. In exchange for any support, The Iris can provide creative advertising opportunities, exclusive VIP events for supporting organisations and the pride that goes with playing a part in opening one of the most exciting new ventures to hit the town in decades. Visit us at www.theirisayr.com/ or email hello@theirisayr.com

• Proper wheel alignment maximises fuel economy – this can be up to 7% which means if you are driving a vehicle getting 30 mpg and covering only 10,000 miles a year a whopping £110.00!! Robert knows what's he's talking about when it comes to wheel alignment. Although just over a year since he opened his stateof-the-art unit in Heathfield Industrial Estate Robert has been aligning wheels for over ten years and has invested in the very latest equipment which linked to technology gets to the root of the problem quickly and more important accurately. As a member of the Ayrshire Chamber you and your family and staff qualify for a 15% discount. Don’t hesitate keep you and your passengers safe and stop wearing out your tyres unnecessarily. Call them today on 01292 737727.

time for clean thinking? A clean space means happier employees and a better performing organisation. Don’t settle for less, clean with MaxxClean. We all love a clean environment - it is the key to success in any business. Not only does its showcase your ofﬁce and create a positive working space, it also increases your productivity.

Our services: ✔ Daily ofﬁce cleaning

You need a partner you can trust – one that cares whole-heartedly about providing safe, clean and hygienic environments in which your people can thrive.

✔ Specialist cleaning

A partner who works shoulder to shoulder with you to help you reach the next level. With a track record in delighting thousands of building users in organisations throughout Ayrshire, MaxxClean is that partner.

✔ Deep cleaning

We’re passionate about delivering outstanding results through our regular and specialist cleaning services. That’s why 95% of our customers would recommend us and score our services as consistently very good or excellent. To speak to an expert about our ﬂexible cleaning services get in touch with us on 01292 400 442 or visit us at maxxclean.co.uk

01292 400442 info@maxxclean.co.uk

maxxclean.co.uk

✔ Commercial contract cleaning ✔ Janitorial consumable products

Sectors we serve: ✔ Commercial ✔ Education ✔ Hospitality ✔ Leisure ✔ Construction

clean thinking in commercial cleaning

NEW LOOK NEW MENU NEW EXPERIENCE

NOW OPEN

THE PARK HOTEL FACELIFT NEARING COMPLETION It’s been another busy year at The Park Hotel Ayrshire! Our fantastic hotel has been undergoing a facelift and phases 1 to 3 of our works are now complete. We are thrilled to bring you our new restaurant, Blues at the Park, which is now located on the ground floor of the hotel with a new look, new menu & new experience. Executive Chef, Logan McGuire, has produced a menu full of tantalising dishes for you to enjoy and next month brings all things Christmas when we will move on to our December Dining Menu and Festive Menus. Our Festive Calendar is choc-a-block with events to suit all. If you're still looking for your Christmas party why not try a Party Lunch, Ladies Lunches or this year’s Lunch & Movie with Santa! Christmas Day is fully booked but you can still join us at New Year for one of our Hogmanay events or Carvery to celebrate the arrival of 2020. The final phase of 2019 works is our new 1st floor East View Suite situated where Blues used to be! This suite is sure to become a favourite for a range of events with its contemporary design and flexibility to host small to larger conferences or parties. For further information or to arrange a show-round of the new suite please visit the hotel website: www.theparkhotelayrshire.co.uk or call our events team on 01563 545999.

YOUR BUSINESS | WINTER 2019

We look forward to welcoming you to the hotel and will have further news in 2020 of phase 4…

Book your table:

t. 01563 545 999

enquiries@theparkhotelayrshire.co.uk

or online:

theparkhotelayrshire.co.uk/Book Now

MEMBER NEWS

Having recently re-joined Ayrshire Chamber Susan Chan said “The Ayrshire Business Week was a great way to connect and I have been warmly welcomed back into the heart of Ayrshire business. It was a pleasure to meet with so many of you during the Business Week. Our aim is to work towards a cohesive business community and our value is ‘everyone counts’. Susan Chan@New Horizons is a coaching consultancy that goes beyond HR. Aiming to train people to deal effectively within the volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous environment in which we work (sometimes called the VUCA world). She continues “For over 14 years we have worked with clients both nationally and internationally, from London to Shanghai to Scotland. We work with you to promote business wellness and performance. We relish

YOUR BUSINESS | WINTER 2019

BUSINESS WEEK REFLECTIONS the opportunity to focus in Ayrshire and the Burns Country! Our aim is to keep Ayrshire businesses, from front-line workers to senior executives, to be resilient. If you have 1-5 or 5-500 people, we offer specialised webbased resources and digital ‘well-being’ boxes together with seminars and ‘pop ups’ for in house training. Consultancy and courses are available on effectiveness, stress, resilience, deep calm and innovation. You can contact Susan at www.susanchannewhorizons.com or info@susanchan.co.uk

FERGUSSON AND GALANTE DANCE OFF WITH AYRSHIRE MAGAZINE'S AYRSHIRE DOES STRICTLY CROWN June and Nuno triumphed in an impressive field of eight well-known Ayrshire 'faces', with Brenda Ritchie and partner and Ray Montgomerie and partner finishing just behind the winning pair. On the night John Gall, Jane Ballantyne, Cathy Jamieson, Lorna Gibson and Paul Di Giacomo and their respective partners, all did their absolute best to try and land the much sought after trophy and put in plenty of effort. But they didn't quite register with the judges. Ayrshire enjoyed its own unique version of the hit TV show 'Strictly Come Dancing' as some famous Ayrshire faces competed for the bragging rights of being Ayrshire's answer to Stacey Dooley! With all the panache and dazzle of the original TV show, Ayrshire Magazine's own take on 'Strictly Come Dancing' was a great success. It proved a wonderful evening of entertainment while raising much needed cash for charity. In a hotly contested competition, it was a night

to remember for June Fergusson, former owner of Juney Shoo and wife of Robert Fergusson of William Duncan and Co, and her partner, dance instructor Nuno Galante. The judges for the night comprised: dance legend and former Strictly dance professional Ian Waite, Fashion stylist and director of the Catwalk Academy Janis Sue Smith, Helena Morrow, sports and entertainment journalist now Sales Director for Reach PLC and STV personality and Radio show host Mr Fabulous.

There was also a non-competing dance from Phyllis McLeish, owner and editor of Ayrshire Magazine, and director of Kilmarnock Football Club, and her partner Frederico Leão Ribeiro. The evening was a great success and all those who took part gave of their time for a great cause and generated a whopping £11,363 of donations for the Kilmarnock Community Sports Trust. Managed by Paul Di Giacomo, led by a board of trustees including Phyllis McLeish. All thanks to 'Ayrshire Does Strictly'.

MEMBER NEWS

PIECING TOGETHER THE INSURANCE JIGSAW Kinnell Corporate Limited, are a local commercial insurance broker focusing on providing solutions to meet the specific needs of their clients. They pride themselves on being an innovative organisation that puts their customers at the heart of their business. Managing Director, Alan Rorison comments, “I am delighted to announce Kinnell Corporate’s membership with the Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce. I have already been to a few events and have made some great contacts with local businesses already.

We are currently offering a FREE Business Insurance Health Check to ensure you have the appropriate levels of cover in place to safeguard your business. This will allow us to provide you with a no-obligation quote for all your insurance needs. You have nothing to lose and will most likely see some considerable savings on your premiums thanks to the discounts in place for all Chamber members!” To receive a FREE business Insurance Health Check or to simply discuss an insurance requirement, call Kinnell Corporate on 01292 436 000 or alternatively email us at info@kinnellcorporate.co.uk.

EXCITING CHANGES FOR AMS LTD Opened in 2009, Ayrshire Medical Services is an occupational health company in Ayrshire, providing affordable and professional occupational health services and health care packages.

YOUR BUSINESS | WINTER 2019

Located in Wellington Square, Ayr, AMS Ltd are now excited to announce the expansion to their current premises, along with a full new rebrand. The new premises and rebrand, effective from 1st October 2019, were an exciting change for all at AMS.

The Clinic was located on the ground floor in Wellington Square, however with the business continuing to expand, the opportunity arose to acquire the lower ground floor also. During this renovation, AMS Ltd decided that this would be the appropriate time to re-brand the company logo and create a new website. From the Ayrshire Chamber Directory, AMS decided to use the services of Andy Shields from AD&CO. Andy provided an exceptional service with outstanding design work. Andy Shields, Director of AD&CO said “AMS now has a brand to be proud of, and a modern web presence to showcase their exceptional

offering to clients! Being a fellow Chamber member, we couldn’t be happier with the outcome of the project, we have made a valuable connection for life. We would like to thank the team at AMS for choosing AD&CO and look forward to working closely with them in the years to come.” Working together in partnership through the Ayrshire Chamber, both parties were delighted with the outcome. Visit the new website www.ayrshiremedical.co.uk Their Managing Director, Roseanne Savage said, “I am delighted at the fresh approach we have taken with driving the business forward. We worked closely with Andy to produce a vibrant

new website showcasing the many services we offer. I look forward to continued growth and the opportunity to work more closely with our companies in the future.” Due to this expansion, AMS Ltd are delighted to have the opportunity to rent their treatment/ therapy room within the professional and friendly clinic. This would ideally suit a podiatrist, private doctor or complimentary therapies to enhance the services already offered in within the business. For further information, please email lynsey@ayrshiremedical.co.uk

MEMBER NEWS

STAGECOACH WEST SCOTLAND’S NEW MD, FIONA DOHERTY IS FOCUSING ON BETTER ENGAGEMENT Fiona Doherty took charge of Ayr based Stagecoach West Scotland in April. She has enjoyed settling in to a new company, and a new industry. Doherty has more than 28 years experience in the oil and gas, transport and logistics and manufacturing sectors for UK-wide and global corporations. Having begun her career as a technologist with BP Chemicals in 1990, she went on to hold a number of positions within the company before joining INEOS Manufacturing in 2006. She later took on the role of Head of Security Operations at BAA Glasgow Airport before being appointed Port Manager East Scotland with Forth Ports Ltd in 2010.

Stagecoach West Scotland carries around 27 million passenger journeys a year. It has a fleet of approx. 400 buses and employs around 1,000 people. But it wasn’t just the scale of the business that attracted Doherty, it was the vital role that the business plays within society. “It was an opportunity to get involved in an industry which genuinely matters in people’s lives, whether they’re seeing family, getting to work, getting to the doctor, getting to the job centre,” she says. “I think it’s an industry that is underestimated in its importance.” Encouraging more people onto bus should be about making it simpler, easier, reliable, dependable and affordable. All

FIONA DOHERTY, MD OF STAGECOACH WEST SCOTLAND

those key elements, which probably sound simple, are what will bring people on to buses. Doherty believes that the engagement is the way to achieve this. “For me it’s about true collaboration between the company, the community, local authorities and business, because I think only with that will we unlock the potential of business,” she says. “Any one bit in isolation, is not enough.”

im e

tables

KIDS GO FOR £1

Every weekend & Christmas Holidays 30 Nov 19 - 6 Jan 20

@StagecoachWScot

www.stagecoachbus .com

ways to pay:

YOUR BUSINESS | WINTER 2019

MEMBER NEWS

FRUITFUL BUSINESS FOR CONFIDA FM Effective cleaning is essential in every industry, especially in the food industry. The need to keep food safe and prevent the spread of harmful bacteria make it vital that businesses can guarantee to their customers that their business believes in, and follows, good hygiene practices. Local greengrocers and fruiterers, Grants of Prestwick, recognise the importance of cleanliness to their retail and wholesale operations. That is why they contracted Confida FM to carry out regular, specialised cleaning on their fridges to ensure the equipment is maintained to the highest possible standards. The scheduled cleaning programme has proven to be highly successful and has seen the relationship between these local businesses go from strength-to-strength. This led to Confida’s Property Services division recently being appointed to install internal and external CCTV and surveillance equipment to monitor and maintain the security of Grants’ premises. Alisdair Murray, FM Co-ordinator at Confida

FM, said: “Having the opportunity to engage with a well-established and respected local business is very satisfying. We share the same customer-centric principles and quality assurance values to those of Grants and we look forward to developing this local relationship further.” Lorraine Grant said: “We take great pride in the reputation we’ve built for fresh, quality produce at competitive prices. It’s an important

differentiator for our business and has helped distinguish us from the competition for the last 70 years. We also pride ourselves on establishing longlasting business relationships and look forward to working closely with Confida FM for years to come. Their specialist facilities management services are helping us to uphold the high standards our customers have come to expect.”

YOUR BUSINESS | WINTER 2019

CELEBRATE BURNS WITH THE GAIETY’S FUNDRAISER

The Burns Supper is one of the most celebrated events in the Scottish cultural calendar, not just in Scotland, but throughout the world. While some of the parts of the Burns Supper are used in other Scottish cultural celebrations, the Burns Supper follows a common agenda, specific to the celebration of the life, works, and cultural heritage of Scotland’s beloved bard, Robert Burns. The Gaiety will be hosting their first Annual Burns Supper Fundraiser at Enterkine House’s newly renovated oak and glass barn on Saturday 8th

February 2020 at 7:00pm, and would like to extend a warm invitation to all Ayrshire Chamber members. The fundraiser will celebrate Burns’ memory and raise vital funds for Ayr’s much loved Theatre. Tickets include a donation to The Gaiety Theatre, a three course meal and an evening of superb entertainment hosted by Master of Ceremonies- Niven Rennie.

• Immortal Memory – Hugh Farrell – • Curator of Burns Monument & Burns Cottage Guide • Toast to the Lassies – Peter Brown – • One of Scotland’s top After Dinner Speakers

• Reply fae the Lassies – Jojo Sutherland – Comedian, Actor & Broadcaster • Addressing the Haggis – John Sleith – Past Winner of the Globe Inn, Dumfries Tam O Shanter Word Recitation Championships • Entertainment – Alistair McCulloch on fiddle and Aaron Jones on guitar/vocals Tickets can be purchased from The Gaiety’s Box Office, on 01292 288235 or online at www. thegaiety.co.uk/burns-supper-2020-gaietyfundraiser/ join them for an evening of neeps, tatties and a wee dram!

MEMBER NEWS

SOUTH AYRSHIRE COMMUNITY TRANSPORT LAUNCHES REGION’S FIRST ELECTRIC COMMUNITY CAR CLUB South Ayrshire Community Transport have launched a brand new Community Car Club for Ayr residents. The two year pilot scheme will give the local community access to two low-carbon electric vehicles following almost £60,000 of funding from SP Energy Networks’ Green Economy Fund in 2018. In a bid to improve transport for vulnerable people in an area of low car ownership, the Community Car Club will make vital transport to medical appointments and job interviews or even just shopping less expensive and easier for those who need additional support. SP Energy Networks awarded the funding to South Ayrshire Community

Transport as part of its £20million Green Economy Fund, which supports the ambitious green targets of the Scottish Government to meet climate change targets, boost local economic growth, improve air quality across the country and deliver a better future, quicker.

Catriona Haston, Community Transport Manager at South Ayrshire Community Transport, said: “We are extremely proud to be launching the new electric vehicle Community Car Club for local residents. Our current transport services have been popular and it’s great that we’re now able to expand this to be able to meet the demand. In addition to helping people in our community, the Green Economy Fund has allowed us to deliver environmentally friendly modes of transport that encourages others in our community to start thinking about how they can help tackle climate change.” For more information or to book a vehicle, get in touch on 01292 270864.

People power makes business great. Let’s work together. We believe in Business Togetherness – we’re a collective force, here to help firms of all sizes and sectors to grow and thrive. Our knowledge and experience of local business means we’re the go-to source of trusted support and advice for companies like yours. • Peer-to-peer support • Networking and events • Recruitment and training Whatever your business, whatever the issue, our advisors are here for you. And we’re your voice on a national and international level too, putting your concerns on the UK’s business agenda.

Get in touch Call us 01292 678666 Email us enquiries@ayrshire-chamber.org

Find out how you can benefit from joining us at www.ayrshire-chamber.org

YOUR BUSINESS | WINTER 2019

MEMBER NEWS

AYRSHIRE CANCER SUPPORT LAUNCHES NEW CAMPAIGN Ayrshire Cancer Support is delighted to launch a new fundraising campaign called #Home4Cancer, to create a bright and welcoming new support centre in Ayr, which will continue to offer a lifeline to anyone affected by cancer. A new, fully accessible centre is needed in Ayr to provide essential services to all cancer patients, their families and friends in Ayrshire. Free patient transport is already provided to cancer patients, taking many to daily hospital appointments in Glasgow. 1 in 2 people will be affected by cancer so there is an ever-increasing demand to help patients reach their hospital appointments

and access the counselling and therapies they and their families need. ACS want to be able to provide more free of charge professional counselling, advice and complementary therapies in Ayr to complement their existing Drop-In Centre in Kilmarnock to meet this expanding need. The existing outdated centre in Ayr is used by patients throughout South Ayrshire and parts of East Ayrshire and will continue to be used while funds are raised to buy and fit out a new centre in Ayr. The fundraising campaign was launched in August at a Clay Shoot event at Trump Turnberry Hotel, which raised almost £10,000. Next year’s event is being planned now with a date set for

YOUR BUSINESS | WINTER 2019

A TAGGART STYLE 21ST FOR RT RESOURCES

Well established training provider RT Resources Ltd commemorated their special birthday on the 4th of October with a day away from the office celebrating in style. The team travelled to Glasgow and took part in an Archery Taster session in the morning, followed by a Taggart Team Challenge. Staff were divided into two teams of sleuths and were tasked to find evidence relating to a murder. You can take a look at all the brilliant photographs at www. rtresources.co.uk/news. Claire McCallum, Director said “We had a great day out and the team building challenges were fantastic. It was good to see some of the staff displaying their very competitive nature! Turning 21 is an important milestone for us, the business has developed over the past two decades into a highly regarded provider of SVQs and Modern

Sunday 16th August 2020. A range of businesses have come onboard to help with the charity’s fundraising appeal by pledging to undertake fundraising events towards the capital appeal. To get involved please contact fundraising@ ayrshirecs.org or call 01563 475 025 to discuss how you can help this local charity help local people.

DOCUMENT DATA GROUP ARRIVE IN EDINBURGH FOR KILTWALK 2019!

On Sunday 15th September thousands of people took to the streets of Edinburgh for the ever popular Kiltwalk 2019 and what an incredible day it was! Apprenticeships. I am proud of what we have achieved and felt it important to thank the team and mark the occasion.” The highly experienced team at RT Resources can deliver qualifications in Business, Management, Construction, Glass & Glazing, Health & Social Care and Children and Young People. They have a long standing substantial contract with Skills Development Scotland to provide funding to deliver Modern Apprenticeships. For more information on the courses and qualifications they deliver, have a look at their website, www.rtresources.co.uk or call on 01292 290029.

After weeks of training, the Document Data Group Team took on the 24 mile Mighty Stride and fought through the pain barriers to complete this in just over 7 hours. The team chose to raise money for 3 charities close to their hearts namely Kilbryde Hospice, SAMH and Breast Cancer Care and raised a very commendable £1800. Founder and Managing Director of Document Data Group, David Forsyth said, “What an achievement from the team, and for some great causes. I am very proud to call them Team DDG. Well done!”. For more information on the Kiltwalk and future events visit https://www.thekiltwalk. co.uk/ Bring on 2020! #doingourbit #community

MEMBER NEWS

Scott Maclean is the owner of Kinetic 365 Coaching, a cycling and triathlon coaching business that helps riders of all levels fulfil their potential from his studio based at the Sprockets Cycle Shop, Kilmarnock. With more than three decades in cycling coaching and competing, Scott uses every ounce of his experience to take athletes from absolute beginners to national champions and even the Commonwealth Games. This level of success requires a dedication to personal and professional development, an eye for detail and an understanding of how people work

YOUR BUSINESS | WINTER 2019

INTRODUCING CYCLING AND TRIATHLON COACHING TO AYRSHIRE both personally and competitively. Professionally, Scott has an honours degree in Sports Science and a British Cycling Level 2 coaching badge as well as post graduate degrees in Physical Education and Sciences. His knowledge and practices in the areas of biomechanics has also earned him the status of a level 2 International Bike Fitter, one of only a few in country. Using a holistic approach to cycle coaching, K365 treats every cyclist as an individual, offering bespoke bike fitting, personalised coaching programmes, nutritional support and guidance as well as the

psychological support often missing in high-end performance environments. Kinetic 365 Coaching continues to grow at pace, boasting clients from all over the world. The business also holds a key presence in the cycling consultancy world, with brands using Scott for his expertise and opinions in product development. Future plans for Kinetic 365 Coaching include working with strategic partners to bring world class cycling events to the West of Scotland. www.kinetic365coaching.co.uk

JEWELLERY CAN GROW ON TREES Environmental awareness is increasing steeply these days and topics like plastic pollution and global warming are often prominent in the media. Idin Jewellery is an online retailer of fashion jewellery. Rather than following just the latest fashion trends, the business is exploring avenues to bring fashion jewellery with a low environmental and social impact to the market. Consumers expect to pay low prices for fashion jewellery while still receiving good looking pieces. As such, plastic is often the popular choice as it is easy to work with, the appearance can be flawless and the costs are extremely low. Not surprisingly, most such jewellery is made in Chinese factories. After stumbling over Tagua jewellery, the owners of Idin Jewellery Guenther and Jareeya Wurmbauer were immediately convinced that such jewellery deserves a place in the market. Tagua is the fruit of the tagua palm tree and as such is fully biodegradable. Due to its appearance that resembles ivory it is also labelled as “vegetable ivory”. However, it is free of any controversies since no animals come to harm nor do trees need to be felled to gain access to this wonderful resource. It also provides the indigenous population of countries like Ecuador an ethical source of income.

Tagua can indeed be a substitute for resin jewellery. Ironically, Guenther is slightly concerned that tagua is too good to be true as he says “Tagua jewellery can be made to such a high standard, that some customers are convinced it must be plastic.”. With consumers getting more concerned about their environmental footprint, Idin Jewellery is convinced that tagua has a future in the jewellery industry www.idin-jewellery.co.uk

YOUR BUSINESS | WINTER 2019

APPRENTICESHIP COMMUNITY CHALL

Now in its 16th year, the Apprenticeship Community Challenge Ayrshire launched in February 2019. Companies across Ayrshire were invited to put forward individual apprentices or a team of apprentices to plan, complete and document a project that would be of benefit to the local community. This year 8 companies completed the challenge and were invited to attend a Semi-Final in September. All 8 teams presented their project and 3 winners were identified and put forward for the Overall Winner award:

01292 678666

• ASHLEIGH BUILDING – Best Presentation • SAS INTERNATIONAL Greatest Community Impact • WALLACE MCDOWALL - Most Impact on Apprentice learning SAS International were announced as the overall winner at the Ayrshire Business Awards on the 11th October at Ayr Racecourse. The winning project was the design, creation and installation of a WW1 memorial in Maybole. ‘This year has been one of the biggest and toughest challenges to judge with 8 teams making it through to the semi-final. The judges were blown away

with the level of skill, professionalism and innovation that the apprentices showcased through their work. We are delighted as a Chamber to facilitate this Challenge as it works hand in hand with our Developing the Young Workforce Initiative. We thank all of the teams and their management for taking part; AMP Control, Collins Aerospace, DSM, James Frew Ltd, Spirit Aerosystems and of course our finalists.’ Val Russell CEO Ayrshire Chamber. With thanks to Skills Development Scotland, Munro Architects and Indigo Black for their support in judging. If you are interested in finding out more about this challenge then email Gillian Longmuir - glongmuir@ ayrshire-chamber.org.

INFO@DYWAYRSHIRE.COM

LENGE AYRSHIRE 2019 AYR UNITED PRESENT TROPHY TO BELMONT ACADEMY

SAS INTERNATIONAL - Overall Winner, Greatest Community Impact

WALLACE MCDOWALL - Most Impact on Apprentice learning

ASHLEIGH BUILDING – Best Presentation

Belmont Academy were presented with a trophy at the beginning of October by Ayr United FC for winning the Ayr United Hospitality Challenge. Pupils from various South Ayrshire schools, in teams of 4 were set a challenge of designing a new balanced dish that players may eat post-match as part of their protein and carbohydrate rich diet. The pupils could use no more than 9 ingredients to create their culinary masterpiece. Belmont Academy came out top with their dish, ‘Crunchy Cajun Chicken.’

BLOG.DYWAYRSHIRE.COM

YOUR BUSINESS | WINTER 2019

EXPERIENCING WORKING LIFE AT AVQ MANAGEMENT AVQ Management had the pleasure of hosting Jack, a fourth year pupil at Kilmarnock Academy for a week’s work experience in September 2019. Jack fulfilled the role of Junior Administrator providing support to our Systems Manager and her team. During this time Jack got to experience ‘working life’ and what it takes to keep an office running efficiently. AVQ Management’s Systems Manager Pauline MacRae said, “We felt it was important to give Jack as varied a week as we could and, as such, gave him the opportunity to take part in a team branding workshop off site with the entire AVQ team. In addition to this, Jack also attended a half day’s training course to update his Excel skills. We wanted to ensure that Jack left AVQ

Management with an increased set of skills from his first workplace experience”. Our team enjoyed hosting Jack and watching him flourish as the week progressed. Jack completed his placement with new skills, greater confidence and with an appreciation that learning is a lifelong commitment. AVQ Management are a training business, (SQA Approved Centre and Modern Apprenticeship Centre) and are advocates of self-improvement and supporting our young workforce. We currently employ a member of our young workforce in the role of Junior Administrator working at our offices in John Finnie Street, Kilmarnock a half day per week. This has proven to be an excellent

decision. Our young team member is a valuable part of our team and most definitely has a role to play. This decision has given us the opportunity to invest in a young person’s future and help provide them with skills that will benefit them in their future career. AVQ Management believe in the inspiring work that DYW Ayrshire carry out and will continue to support them in their work. We would encourage any business to help develop our young people and support them on their journey to becoming our future workforce.

YOUR BUSINESS | WINTER 2019

ALEXANDER'S CAREER IS SET FOR TAKE OFF

Glasgow Prestwick’s Sonia Rafferty, Human Resources Director said, “At Glasgow Prestwick Airport we offer many work experience placements each year for pupils in 4th-6th years around Ayrshire to take part in. The airport has many opportunities for young people, with the variety of job roles across the business, this can help give pupils a full insight into how the airport operates on a daily

01292 678666

basis and what working life can be like. Commenting on his work experience, Alexander from Marr College said; “I spent my week visiting a selection of departments throughout the airport. One of the areas that I really enjoyed was working alongside the Airfield Operations team. Here I learned how the operators bring an aircraft to stand, dealing with a bird strike and the correct protocols

when driving around the airfield. “Participating in this placement has taught me what can be expected from me when I leave school. It has been a great experience and I would like to thank Glasgow Prestwick Airport for allowing me to take part in this programme.”

INFO@DYWAYRSHIRE.COM

Doon Academy S3 pupil Jack recently completed a week long work placement at McCluskie Motor Engineering in Patna. Jack has always wanted to work as a car mechanic and is very passionate about repairing engines and learning how they operate. This work placement not only developed his knowledge of the industry but helped to enhance his confidence and self-esteem. Throughout the week Jack assisted in basic car maintenance such as checking levels and tyre pressures. He also observed more complicated operations including the replacement of the turbo in a car engine. Owner and local man Alan McCluskie was delighted with Jack's progress and work ethic. He was particularly impressed by Jack's listening skills, enthusiasm and initiative. Alan's advice to Jack was to keep standards high within school to realise his ambition of becoming an apprentice mechanic. Alan continues to be a huge

ADWORKS

My name is Natalie and a few weeks ago I went for work experience at Adworks Belmont Scotland. Academy At Adworks I did a variety of tasks including: collecting statistics, creating content and posting advertisements for different customers. I learned the importance of using social media to grow and promote your company and that by using social media you can find so many new customers. I really enjoyed my time at Adworks and it definitely helped with choosing a career path in the future.

SCOTTISH ENTERPRISE

support to young people in the Doon Valley. Jack will now take this experience back into the classroom as he works towards gaining the necessary qualifications to reach his career goal. A true example of a school, a business, parents and of course a young person all working together in order to develop our young workforce.

I am an S4 pupil at Marr College in Troon. Marr I have had a really interesting work College experience at Scottish Enterprise with the opportunity to gain insight into various parts of the business which has given me a really good understanding of what SE do as Scotland’s Economic Development Agency. I was based within the Atrium Court office and was made to feel very welcome by all. Overall, I really enjoyed my time with SE and would like to thank everyone who gave me their time to help me learn. Many thanks again to everyone involved and the Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce who manage the work experience programme.

AYRSHIRE HOSPICE Sophie from Marr College spent time Marr at The Ayrshire Hospice, they said College “The Ayrshire Hospice are happy to support work experience placements and to inspire the workforce of the future. As well as giving the student a valuable insight into the different aspects of our varied roles within the fundraising office, it allows us to demonstrate why we are an employer of choice. We are delighted to give back to the Ayrshire community who support us so well.“

BLOG.DYWAYRSHIRE.COM

39 YOUR BUSINESS | WINTER 2019

JACK ENGINEERS HIS CAREER

WORK EXPERIENCE

HIGHER BUSINESS AT CARRICK ACADEMY N5 and Higher Business Management pupils at Carrick Academy enjoyed a visit from Morgan Sindall Group. This visit focused on how important customer service is within their business. On the day pupils worked in teams to come up with feedback to a real customer scenario. Shirley Kerr, Carrick Academy, Higher Business Teacher said: "N5 and Higher Business Management pupils enjoyed a visit from our new school contractor Morgan Sindall. Victoria Proven,

Site Manager and Aftercare provided an insight into the customer service strategy followed by the company. Pupils were given a real customer scenario and worked in teams to

feedback possible solutions. It was clear no matter your position in the company – your interaction with the customer is vital! Thanks to Victoria for her time and enthusiasm!"

YOUR BUSINESS | WINTER 2019

IRVINE ROYAL ACADEMY CAREERS DAY

Irvine Royal Academy held their Careers Day on 29th August for pupils to gain an insight into different career opportunities. Pupils got the opportunity to interact with representatives from different businesses and organisation such as NHS, Merck UK, Royal Air Force, BAE Systems, UWS, Royal Navy and Kingscroft Logistics Ltd. FEEDBACK FROM BUSINESSES: “Excellent, well thought out and worthwhile event. Kids were well prepared and were all polite and listened well.” “The pupils and teachers were very welcoming.” “Worth-while”

01292 678666

INFO@DYWAYRSHIRE.COM

GSK MOCK ASSESSMENT CENTRE In previous years GSK have held these sessions within their Irvine site however this year for the first time, GSK took the mock assessment centre out to the schools. Â They visited pupils from Belmont Academy, Greenwood Academy and Kilmarnock Academy. The pupils took part in a practical test, a group test and

a short interview. Each section is conducted under similar conditions to a real assessment

centre and all participants are offered feedback on how they performed.

ALEX BEGG VISITS CARRICK ACADEMY Carrick Academy had the team from Alex Begg visit the school at the beginning of September to speak with their senior Art & Design and Business pupils. They spoke about the heritage of Alex Begg, the recruitment process and different routes into the business. The team brought along sample fabrics for the pupils to use within a challenge they set. The young people were split into teams of 5 and were asked to create a social media post about their choice

of fabric. The aim was to attract influencers to their Instagram site by using their own pictures and what

hashtag they would use. The prize for the winning team was three days internship at Alex Begg in the October break. What an amazing opportunity!

BLOG.DYWAYRSHIRE.COM

YOUR BUSINESS | WINTER 2019

MEMBER NEWS

DEVELOPING A DEMENTIA FRIENDLY SOUTH AYRSHIRE Following the recent appointment of Alex Murphy as the charity’s new Head of Service, South Ayrshire Dementia Support Association (SADSA) is pleased to announce Kelly Craig as Dementia Friendly Communities Development Worker. This is an exciting new role funded by South Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership. Alex said “As Head of Service, I’m very excited to be part of SADSA at a time of great change in dementia care and support and am very much looking forward to working with Kelly in her new role”. SADSA is South Ayrshire's specialist dementia Daycare service and provides vital, compassionate support to people with dementia and their carers in Ayr, Prestwick and Maybole:

“We are delighted to be hosting this important development and our thanks go to the Health and Social Care Partnership for choosing to work with us.” Kelly is looking forward to developing Dementia Friendly communities across South Ayrshire. She will be engaging with the community, recruiting volunteers and developing relationships with local businesses to build on the wonderful work that has been delivered in the Prestwick, Troon and Girvan communities. Our aim is to ensure that all of South Ayrshire becomes a Dementia Friendly community. By doing this, we can help people with dementia to be respected, supported and understood, and continue to live well in their own communities. To volunteer, or if your business would like to become involved in helping your

community to become Dementia Friendly please get in touch on 01292 288936 or kelly.craig@sadsa.org.uk

CALLING ALL BUSINESSES! – JOIN US IN EMPLOYERS SUPPORT FOR CARERS

YOUR BUSINESS | WINTER 2019

Unpaid family carers provide vital support that underpins the health and social care system in Scotland. There are an estimated 750,000 carers in Scotland – almost one fifth of the population.

According to the UK census, as many as one in nine employees has caring responsibilities. Carers are therefore a sizeable and important part of the workforce. Remaining economically active is beneficial not only to carers’ psychological, emotional and financial wellbeing but to society as a whole. Carers can often feel under pressure to give up work to continue caring, therefore supporting carers in employment is critical not least for the economy. Many carers want to work but need support in order to manage what can sometimes seem to be conflicting

demands. This can be a serious dilemma for employees and one that needs understanding and expertise to navigate. It could touch every one of us on our own employment journey. Employers are key partners in supporting and sustaining staff who may be managing substantial caring commitments along with the demands of the workplace. But they in turn need support. It can be difficult for employers to know how to support workers in an effective way. This is where we can help– a collection of organisations and individuals, including Health Improvement Scotland, dedicated to working with Employers across the country in the development of policies, with the objective of demonstrating success as fair and aware employers. Our group ; 'Carer Confident Employers', is made up of representatives from Care

Providers, Health and Social Care Partnership, Health Improvement Scotland, Elected Members, Carers Enterprise. We welcome the involvement of colleagues in business, contributing ideas, working with us to share experiences and importantly, helping engage other employers and the community in identifying ways in which we can constructively address carers needs at work. Please do contact us: for local HIS assistance on Policies etc. ; Healthy Working Lives; T: 0800 885855 E: AA-UHB.HWL@nhs.net To participate, or to give input please contact :Seonaid Lewis, Community Engagement Officer T: 01292 559359 or 0777321412 E: Seonaid.Lewis@south-ayrshire.gov.uk

The Board of Directors is delighted to welcome the following companies as recently joined members of Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce and Industry:

A NEW CHAPTER LIFE COACHING Irvine Miss Donna Shillinglaw dshillingl@aol.com

CREATUR LTD Ayr Mr Grant Jamieson info@creatur.co.uk

IMPACT ARTS (PROJECTS) LTD Irvine Mrs Fiona Doring fdoring@impactarts.co.uk

ALERTA MEDICAL LTD Irvine Mr Ian Lindberg ian.lindberg@alertamedical.com

GERONIMO SAILING Ardrossan Mr Craig Perkins craig@geronimosailing.com

IRIS ARTS AYR CIC (THE) Ayr Mr Ross Hunter hello@theirisayr.com

GIFTED KIND (THE) Dundonald Miss Genna Masterton genna@thegiftedkind.com

KENNEDYSMITH (PRESS) LIMITED Irvine Ms Elizabeth Goudie elizabeth@kennedysmith.co.uk

BUCHANAN DISTRIBUTION LTD Stewarton Mr Ewart Hogarth Admin@gococodrinks.com

GLOBAL GLASGOW Ms Michelle Hextall michelle.hextall@global.com

LOCKHARTS LAW LLP Ayr Mr Alistair Brown alistairbrown@lockhartslaw.com

CACTUS DIGITAL MEDIA Glasgow Mr Ryan Dunlop ryan.dunlop@cactusdigitalmedia.co.uk

GOLPHIN LTD Irvine Mr Calum McPherson calum@golphin.co.uk

CALEDONIAN STRATEGY (SCOTLAND) LTD Ayr Mr Chic Brodie chicbrodie10@gmail.com

HAMILTON ROBERTSON INSURANCE BROKERS LTD Irvine Mr Kris Jackson kj@hrib.co.uk

BEAU BEAU BOUTIQUE Ayr Mrs Victoria Lace-Williamson victoria@beaubeauboutique.com

CLEAR MANAGEMENT Ayr Mrs Claire Richardson clairelouiserichardson@hotmail.co.uk COMMERCIAL & ASSET FINANCE LTD Paisley Mr Kevin Jopp kevin@commercialandasset.co.uk

HAYWARD CONTRACTS LTD Stevenston Ms Ann Hay ann@haywardcontractsltd.co.uk HOOK MARINE LTD Troon Mr Kenneth Smith kjs@hookmarine.com

MACFARLANE RESTAURANT Ayr Mr Ewan MacFarlane ewanmacfarlane@hotmail.co.uk MARTIN & CO Ayr Mr Kasim Hussain kasim@martinco.com MARY MCCLUNG COACHING Newmilns Miss Mary McClung info@marymcclung.co.uk MICHAEL FERRARA - MORTGAGE ADVISOR Troon Mr Michael Ferrara michael.ferrara@mab.org.uk

NEW CUMNOCK DEVELOPMENT TRUST New Cumnock Mrs Sheena Boyd sheena.ncdt@outlook.com

STARK AGENCY Dundonald Ms Alexa Scott alexa.scott@starkagency.co.uk

NULINE MEDICAL East Ayrshire Mr John McKerchar john@nulinemedical.com

THE 1010 TRUST Ayr Mr Dylan Harper dylan@the1010trust.org.uk

PAPETERIE BESPOKE Kilmarnock Mrs Alice Mitchell alice@papeteriebespoke.co.uk PARRIS & MCNALLY LIMITED Kilmarnock Ms Lucy Parris lucy@parrisandmcnally.co.uk PRIMAL ADVENTURES Saltcoats Mr Matt Smith matt@primal-adventures.com RAINTON CONSTRUCTION (SCOTLAND) LIMITED Glasgow Mrs Andrena Kirkwood andrena.kirkwood@rclscot.co.uk SARAH'S CREATIVE OCCASIONS Kirkmichael Mrs Sarah Plant sarah@sarahscreativeoccasions.com SET TRAINING Glasgow Miss Jenny Morrison jenny@settraining.co.uk

THE AUCHANS Dundonald Mr Alastair Kerr alastair@theauchans.co.uk THE SHORE Whiting Bay Mrs Charlotte Martin theshorearran@gmail.com THORNE TRAVEL Kilwinning Ms Shona Thorne enquiries@thornetravel.com VELOCITY 7 FOOTBALL ACADEMY Irvine Mr Shaun Murtagh shaun-murtagh@hotmail.com WHITLETTS VICTORIA F.C. Ayr Mr George Jaconelli gjaconelli@hotmail.com

We want to recruit more members to strengthen your 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, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll reward you with a choice of special offers to help your business. Call the membership team on 01292 678666 or visit the referral page on our website.

43 YOUR BUSINESS | WINTER 2019

NEW MEMBERS