Your Business

business your

summer 2015 ÂŁ2

the magazine of Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce and Industry

On 27th March over 600 members and guests flocked to Ayr Racecourse

AYRSHIRE CHAMBER ANNUAL DINNER 2015

- See page 16 and 17 www.ayrshire-chamber.org

ALSO INSIDE: SPACEPORT BID, ANNUAL DINNER

Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce & Industry, The Mezzanine, Glasgow Prestwick Airport, Prestwick, KA9 2PL Email: enquiries@ayrshire-chamber.org Web: www.ayrshire-chamber.org Tel: 01292 678666 President

Waiyin Hatton

Chief Executive

Valerie Russell

Development Manager

Helen McBride

MAGAZINE Editorial Content: acameron@ayrshire-chamber.org

Ad Sales:

Design & Typesetting:

nsykes@ayrshire-chamber.org

Adver tisingworks Scotland Ltd

www.advertisingworks.co.uk

Print & Distribution: www.brown-bros.com

You should be reading comments from President Waiyin Hatton in this edition.

However as the next issue of Your Business goes into circulation Waiyin will be approaching the end of her term of office and it seemed more fitting that she gives her final comments in the next issue.

Summer is fast approaching and it has been a busy time at the Chamber.

The election campaign felt as though it had been going on for the last 18 months as it fell fast on the heels of the Independence Referendum last year. We can focus on business for a few months before it all starts again for 2016!

As I am sure you are all aware the Chamber is a non-political organisation and our role is to ensure our members get a voice focussing on policy rather than politics. To enable us to represent your views please take time to complete the surveys we send as the results are presented to both Holyrood and Westminster.

PARTNERS FOR BUSINESS

We hosted a hustings with our colleagues from the Federation of Small Businesses with four of the candidates who stood for election in Ayrshire.

Ayrshire Chamber wishes to acknowledge the support of the following companies as sponsors of our Partners for Business programme.

Votes counted and it was all change in Ayrshire. The Chamber looks forward to working with our newly elected candidates – Corri Wilson, Dr Philippa Whitford, Alan Brown and Patricia Gibson, all SNP. We encourage you to work with local business organisations like the Chamber of Commerce to promote a strong business voice for Ayrshire and make business a central driver in creating a thriving Ayrshire and Scottish economy.

We also urge that you support Prestwick’s bid to be the location for the UKs first spaceport, push for reformation of business rates and abolition of Air Passenger Duties to name but a few issues that impact on business in Ayrshire.

I would also like to take the opportunity to thank those MPs who lost their seats, Brian Donohoe, Cathy Jamieson, Sandra Osborne and Katy Clark who have served and championed Ayrshire well over many

ACCI VAL RUSSELL CHIEF EXECUTIVE

years. We wish you well with whatever the future holds.

A key highlight since the last magazine was of course our Annual Dinner in March. Over 600 members and guest attended the event at Ayr Racecourse to celebrate Ayrshire’s business including the announcement of the Ayrshire Business Excellence Awards, Congratulations again to Utopia and William Tracey.

We were delighted to welcome Mr Donald Trump to speak to guests before dinner – he definitely has some big plans for Trump Turnberry and to quote Mr Trump himself “Ayrshire will have a world class resort”, this can only be good news!

To mark Scotland’s Year of Food and Drink Ayrshire produce was used throughout the menu and this is something we hope to promote at even more of the Chamber events.

The Ayrshire Business Awards were launched at the dinner and I would urge companies to visit our website ayrshirechamber.org/businessawards.asp and get your application in! The Awards Dinner will take place on October 8 at Seamill Hydro and I look forward to welcoming many of you to that event which is the highlight of our Business Week.

I wish you all a great summer and hope to see you at some of events or during my rounds of company visits.

YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2015

CONTACTS

BIG SUMMER FOR AYRSHIRE BUSINESS

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BC MOTORHOMES TEAMS UP AYRSHIRE FIRM SECURES WITH MARR COLLEGE COLLEGE CONTRACT

Major work is to be carried out at Ayrshire College’s Ayr campus by local firm McLaughlin Construction over the next five months to provide brand new learning spaces for students.

McLaughlin Construction has been a leading construction provider for the housing, leisure, retail, commercial, health and education sectors since 1946. Previously, they built Ardrossan’s Drummond House, a specialist unit for care of women in children, a child and family centre also in Ardrossan, and a new resource centre in Saltcoats.

YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2015

This development is being funded by the Ayrshire College Foundation which was set up in December 2013.

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John Rainey, Chairman of the Ayrshire College Foundation said “The Ayrshire College Foundation was set up to advance education by providing financial support for projects to support educational developments in Ayrshire.

"The proposals we approved will benefit students attending the college’s Ayr and Kilwinning campuses by giving them access to modern facilities that help them achieve success in their courses.”

Work at the Ayr campus is due to get underway on 26 May 2015. The College’s Kilwinning campus will be receiving similar treatment from July, with the contract due to be awarded to one of 13 bidders next month.

Ayrshire’s business community had the opportunity to grill a selection of Westminster hopefuls at our joint ‘Pro Business Politics’ event with Federation of Small Business Scotland on Friday 24th April.

Prospective Parliamentary candidates from Labour, SNP, Scottish Greens and Conservatives took to the stage to appeal for the business vote during an informal question time style event held in the Aviator Suite in Prestwick Airport.

Student-facing services will be redeveloped to ensure there is an identical model across all of the College’s three main campuses in Ayr, Kilmarnock and Kilwinning.

Ten tenders were received by the College and McLaughlin Construction, an Irvine based company, was awarded the contract worth £1,461,518.

WESTMINSTER CANDIDATES APPEAL FOR AYRSHIRE BUSINESS VOTE

Students from Marr College teamed up with BC Motorhomes to come up with a new globally recognisable logo to be used on their vans and future marketing material.

It gave creative pupils an opportunity to gain practical experience from a real-life business project.

Students were tasked with designing new graphics for the rental motorhomes with a Scottish theme that could be identified anywhere in Europe.

The winning design was then displayed on a Roller Team Autoroller 746 at the Scottish Caravan

Show 2015 in February this year.

Josh Rivett’s design was chosen and was carefully recreated and transferred onto the rental van. The Roller Team stood pride of place in the main concourse at the SECC during the Scottish Caravan Show, ensuring thousands of visitors saw the design.

General Manager, Calum Watson, said: “The project has been a fantastic opportunity to get involved at a community level and I’m really impressed with the work the students have put in.”

The partnership is one that Calum hopes will continue into the future and Josh’s design is proud of place on our rental van.

Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce CEO, Val Russell, said: “I’d like to thank the candidates for taking part in the event.

“We’ve seen the televised

debates over the last few weeks but this event allowed Ayrshire businesses to have their voice listened to on matters that are important to them.”

Issues raised included late payments of fees, encouraging entrepreneurial skills among young people, air passenger duty and the future of Glasgow Prestwick

NEW BUSINESS EXPANDING ALREADY Ayrshire Gutter Cleaning only began business in April last year and has since rebranded and expanded their operations.

FUNDRAISING HALO

Rebranded as Frosty’s Exterior Cleaning and are now offering driveway, patio and UPVC cleaning in addition to their gutter cleaning services.

The Prestwick 8:05 Cycling Club, sponsored by Halo Communications, has done it again!

After taking part in previous events such as the Isle of Man Cycling TT and the non-cycle event of the Three Peaks Challenge, this year it was the Loch Ness Etape 2015 in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support.

Along the way of the gruelling but stunningly scenic 66 miles, good times were had with friendships made in a field of over 3,000 cyclists,

Speaking to Chamber and FSB members were; Brian Donohoe MP, SNP candidate Dr Philippa Whitford, Scottish Greens candidate Veronika Tudhope and Conservative candidate Marc Hope.

Owner Gavin Tennent explained: “2015 is going to be an exciting year for the business as we expand into these new services covering both commercial and domestic properties across Ayrshire. with the Halo 8:05 CC team raising over £1,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support out of a total raised by the participants of £146,000.

“All our services are executed at ground level allowing us to carry out your gutter and UPVC cleaning safely, as well as eliminating health and safety risks of working at height.”

Airport.

Val added: “The Chamber is a non-political organisation but we look forward to working with

all elected Ayrshire candidates to support the area’s businesses during the next Parliamentary term.”

5 YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2015

NEWS

MEMBER NEWS

TEAMWORK MAKES THE DREAM WORK

Spend any amount of time with Tom Horner and the team at William Tracey Group and you feel the importance of team amongst staff at their Irvine depot.

‘Your Business’ visited the site after their success in the Business Excellence Service award to speak with Tom Horner and Morag Hilton and see the team in action.

On the Journey to

“It’s the guys out there providing the service, they won this award,” explains Tom pointing out the window to the yard. “It’s great that their hard work is recognised throughout the William Tracey Group. They are out there each day working putting in the service.

“They are a great team who all work hard for each other, I can’t praise them enough.”

In fact, the Monday after they were announced as winners their success was shared in William Tracey Group offices across Scotland and northern England.

YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2015

Tom added: “We’re the only outlying depot to win an award, so we’re absolutely delighted to win Business Excellence. It took me a couple of minutes to realise we had won after our name was announced, but it sunk in fairly quickly after that.”

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And Tom, the true salesman that he is, took the opportunity during his speech to sell the work of the organisation and the Zero Waste philosophy.

William Tracey Group is a leading recycling and resource management company with a full range of environmental services. Their ‘green’ skips are a common sight in building and industrial sites in Ayrshire as we go ‘more green’ as recycling becomes part of our daily lives.

However, they impressed the judges

ZERO WASTE We can help put you in the driving seat.

with the service they provide and how they provide that service. The team at the Irvine Depot, with support from Operations director Calum MacDonald, are all involved and all contribute to improving what they do.

“

They are a great team who all work hard for each other, I can’t praise them enough.

”

The 25-man team at Irvine all have their own role and remit to carry out for the company and each individual contributes to its success. Staff are encouraged to put forward their own suggestions for improvement no matter how trivial they seem. One member of staff, Jim Speirs, suggested that head torches are required to check

wheel nuts, especially in the dark to see properly.

The Group acting on the recommendations from their staff helps make them feel valued and improves their service.

The William Tracey Group are committed to Zero Waste and work with many well-established organisations in the area to make them more environmentally friendly and reduce their waste going to landfill.

The Group have built a number of successful working partnerships with local companies to ensure compliance with the Waste (Scotland) regulations through education and site specific support. They have also heavily invested in the software they use and has been implemented throughout the business and allows both staff and customers to track their records.

The Group’s success in the service category came from their commitment to their customer base, compliance, safety and innovation being at the heart of everything they do and the driving force behind it all? The team.

The William Tracey Group is one of the UK’s leading recycling and resource management companies.

We are committed to delivering a zero waste Scotland, working with Scottish businesses and local authorities to recycle as much of the waste we produce as possible.

Material which cannot be recycled is turned into a fuel for the production of renewable energy, avoiding landfill.

Our mind-set of regarding waste as a valuable resource helps our customers control their waste costs and improve their environmental performance.

Call 01294 315 200 www.williamtraceygroup.com 1-5 Shewalton Road, Irvine KA11 5AW T: 01294 315 200

Winner of the Business Excellence, Ayrshire Award 2014

FRAZER COOGANS SOLICITORS OPENS IN PRESTWICK

It can be the cause of sleepless nights for many business owners. You do great work, but you want more people to know about you. Regular clients bring a steady flow of jobs, but where are the new clients coming from? Who can you turn to for help to grow?

Leading Ayr based law firm Frazer Coogans Solicitors are delighted to announce that they have expanded into Prestwick and have taken over the former practice of Lawson Russell Solicitors of 163 Main Street, Prestwick.

These common company challenges were faced

by Steven Denham and Chris Benn from Ayr-based Elevation Architectural Design. But their answer to these difficult questions was simple: contact Launch.

Donald Russell and Iain Lawson have run Lawson Russell for over 30 years in the heart of Prestwick and are well established and respected in the local community.

Stephen Cosh, Director at Launch, said: “Steven and Chris had recognised that their existing logo did not match their market aspirations and had developed a new brand name - Denham Benn. Our job was to bring that brand idea to life. So, we devised a simplified mark, updated their colour palette and created a brand identity with a contemporary look and feel and, most importantly, impact.”

“With this strong foundation laid, it was time to design a marketing programme aimed at telling the brand’s story. Central to this strategy was the creation of a website which captured the essence of the firm’s design thinking.

NESS

Norman Geddes, Senior Director for Frazer Coogans, commented: “I wish Donald and Iain all the best in their retirement and assure them That meant combining stunning photography and illustrations to reflect the brand position of Denham Benn as a forward-thinking, progressive firm.”

that Frazer Coogans will continue to provide the excellent service which they have provided to their clients and the Prestwick community over the last 30 years. We welcome the new staff members and look forward to this new chapter”.

ER PARTSNINESS 4 BU

“This is an exciting time for Frazer Coogans Solicitors, and we are all looking forward to even more progress and development in the years to come.”

Steven Denham, Director at Denham Benn, said: “Launch took the time to sit with us to discuss and learn about our company. Their ideas and final design solutions reflected our specific business needs. The site is beautiful and easy to use. Everyone who sees it compliments us on how good we look online.”

The next stage of Launch’s marketing mission is a carefully targeted direct mail campaign. Along with the other marcomms activities, this will provide rocket fuel for Denham Benn’s business and help the firm get where it wants to go.

SCOT BUSINESS NEED TO YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2015

The agency tasked with supporting Scottish companies to export needs to be more ambitious according to a report by the Scottish Parliament’s Economy Committee.

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The Committee believes that the expansion of support to companies who have export potential is of vital importance if Scotland’s export performance is to be improved significantly. A new export support programme which was set up in 2014 by Scottish Development International has only a modest target of support to companies.

Warehouse To Let, 1745 sqm

glasgowprestwick.com Call 01292 511211

The Committee’s inquiry into Internationalising Scottish Business was set up to explore the reasons why so many Scottish firms, particularly small medium sized enterprises (SMEs) don’t export.

The Committee also heard that trade missions were a key part of helping companies to break into overseas markets. However more must be done to improve co-ordination, reduce duplication and eliminate unnecessary competition between organisers of trade missions.

BE MORE AMBITIOUS

Prestwick Open Afternoon

Similarly, the plethora of information that exists to companies seeking to find help to export is confusing. Whilst this would not solve the issue of why so few companies export, the single portal already underway must be developed further and promoted actively to businesses.

Convener of the Committee, Murdo Fraser MSP said: “From salmon to whisky to our universities, Scotland has had some real success stories overseas. Breaking into lucrative overseas markets can be timeconsuming, costly and difficult to do.

“Whilst there is positive work being undertaken to increase Scotland’s export potential, it was clear from the course of our inquiry that our agencies must be more ambitious.

“The Committee believes this will help to deliver the step change Scotland needs if we are to replicate the success of some of Scotland’s most well-known international brands.”

77 Main Street, Prestwick Saturday 20th June 2pm – 4pm

What’s on?

Launch of our Frozen selection of Frames, Face Painting, Meet Olaf from Frozen, Exclusive Offers, Competitions, Drinks and Canapes

www.urquhart-opticians.co.uk urquhartopticians @urquhartopts

Tel: 01292 475603 #UrquhartOpenDay

9 YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2015

ARCHITECTURAL FIRM APPOINTS BRAND BUILDERS

PAR 4 BUSITNER

THE AWARDS JUST KEEP “ROLLING” IN!!

Ayrshire baker wins prize in the 2015 Scottish Baker competition

”

Award winning Brownings the Bakers kept up their winning ways by collecting yet another prize for their morning roll at the 2015 Scottish Baker of the Year Awards.

Every member of the Brownings the Bakers team continues to make it the success that it is today.

The Brownings Morning Roll was awarded a Regional Silver Award at a glittering ceremony at the Crown Plaza Hotel in Glasgow on Saturday hosted

by Scottish Bakers.

The 2015 Scottish Baker competition sees over 23,000 customers from across Scotland voting for their favourite bakery products across six categories. 170 shortlisted bakers then delivered 600 of their most popular Scones, Loaves, Savoury Items, Morning Rolls, individual Cakes and Biscuits for judging on the 31st of March. Each category was then divided into 3 regions, covering Northern, Central and Southern Scotland. Within each category the judges

The Silver Award was presented to Brownings by Mich Turner MBE of Little Venice Cake Company. He said: “It has given me great pleasure to be involved in the competition again this year. There have been some fantastic entries and all the prizes I have handed out to bakers have been worthy in every way.”

”

Brownings Managing Director John Gall said “We are delighted to have been awarded a Regional Silver Award for our Morning Rolls at such a prestigious event, it is a fantastic achievement for us.

“I would like to thank our loyal customers and of course all of my hardworking staff, each and every member of the Brownings the Bakers team continues to make it the success that it is today.”

BA K

2003/04 AW ARDS

AYRSHIRE FIRMS GEAR UP FOR THE WOMEN’S BRITISH OPEN Ayrshire’s tourism is teeing up for a busy summer as the Ricoh Women’s British Open golfing championship returns to the Trump Turnberry Resort for the first time since 2002.

4B Two fifths of all spectators who attended the Women’s British Open when it last came to Scotland at St Andrews in 2013, are also planning to make the trip to the 2015 Open. And with the St Andrews event generating a total £3.46m for the local Fife economy, the potential benefit for local tourism businesses in Ayrshire is clear.

As a bank, we are committed to supporting firms of all sizes in Ayrshire’s tourism industry.

Our team of Relationship Managers operating across Ayrshire specialise in a number of key sectors in the local area including tourism

NESS

Our small business lending for last year is currently up by just under eight per cent, that’s equal to £141m of new investment going towards local businesses just like those across Ayrshire’s thriving business landscape.

The spotlight will also fall on Ayrshire’s prominent food and drink sector throughout the summer, as the diverse range of local manufacturers and producers throughout the area continue to celebrate the country’s natural larder as part of the Scotland Year of Food Drink 2015.

“

G INDUS IN

2003/04 AW ARDS

british baker of the year

as well as food and drink, manufacturing and healthcare while Bank of Scotland also continues to support the industry through its ongoing sponsorship of the Ayrshire Bed and Breakfast Association.

PARTN USI ER

Y TR

G INDUS IN

Y TR

BA K

awarded a Gold, Silver and Bronze.

11 YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2015

MEMBER NEWS

british baker of the year

Quality Products From Quality People

Business Lunch or Corporate Catering

JACQUI WEBSTER, RELATIONSHIP MANAGER FOR GLASGOW AND SOUTH WEST SCOTLAND, BANK OF SCOTLAND

Businesses can seize the opportunities presented by what is a landmark occasion on the international sporting calendar by preparing for growth, assisted by our team of local experts, to ensure that firms in the tourism sector and beyond can get the very best out of the busy summer season.

WE HAVE RECEIVED EXTENSIVE ASSISTANCE FROM TEAM NORTH AYRSHIRE PARTNERS, INCLUDING SUPPORT ON DEVELOPING OUR EXPORTS AND E-COMMERCE STRATEGIES FROM NORTH AYRSHIRE COUNCIL AND GENERAL BUSINESS ADVICE FROM BUSINESS GATEWAY.” Kenny Donaldson Owner - Fairlie Furniture

LI

Irvine

EP

147 High Street Tel: 01294 273 198

35 Bridgegate Tel: 01294 276 160

...

Call us on 01294 449944 or follow us on Twitter @NAyrshire_biz L

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Find out how our new business support service will help you realise your business ambitions www.northayrshireforbusiness.com

I THE K

YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2015

Sandwich Platters • Buffet Packs • Celebration Cakes • On-line

YS IE M A N S A

39 Low Glencairn St Tel: 01563 522 958

www.browningsbakers.com 01563 522 685

Kilmarnock 117 King Street Tel: 01563 524 060

6 Dean Street Tel: 01563 522 424

Bonnyton Industrial Estate, Kilmarnock KA1 2NP

Stewarton 37 Foregate Tel: 01563 536 792

15 High Street Tel: 01560 483 114

North Ayrshire

the place to be ambitious

EXCITING TIMES AT BRIDGEND MOTOR GROUP

Manufacturers standards Independent prices

Service Centres

New sites, new products & still the same great customer service!

Minor Service • Oil & Filter Change • Vehicle Safety Check • Wash & Hoover from

Bridgend Motor Group has been serving Ayrshire motorists for 85 years. With well over 1000 used cars in group stock they are easily the largest independent used car dealer in Ayrshire as well as being one of the longest established.

The business has been owned and run by the McLaughlan family since 1930. Bridgend Garage was founded

by Hugh McLaughlan originally as a haulage firm. In 1950, Mr McLaughlan opened the first Bridgend Garage in Old Glasgow Road, Kilwinning carrying out car repairs and selling fuel. Hugh’s sons Daniel and Alexander joined their father in 1966, helping the business to expand over the next 20 years from the traditional garage into associated motor trade operations - used car sales and vehicle service facilities such as accident repair.

YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2015

Speaking of which, Bridgend

BRIDGEND KILWINNING AUTOPLEX

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Accident Repair Centre have just been awarded the Auto Body Professionals Associate Member of the Year 2015 at an award ceremony in London.

They are Ayrshires largest body shop and have recently undergone a major overhaul to their website www.bridgendaccidentrepaircentre.co.uk

“

Bridgend Motor Group has been serving Ayrshire motorists for 85 years.

”

Bridgend Motor Group has expanded over the years opening up further car sales and servicing sites in Irvine, Ayr and their latest development in Kilmarnock. Their East Ayrshire development has been extensive and includes a used car sales centre, van centre, pickup centre and full service and MOT facilities.

Just over one year ago Bridgend launched www.WeBuyAyrshireCars.com as an additional route for sourcing stock. We Buy Ayrshire Cars was set up to buy cars and vans from private

sellers. It was necessary for Bridgend to look outside of the traditional trade suppliers as the turnover of stock has increased in line with the expansion of the company.

Bridgend Motor Group’s service departments haven’t been standing still either having recently launched an Over 60’s Club and a Commercial Club. Both of these service clubs have unique discounts and offers available and are free to join if you are over 60 or own a commercial vehicle. You can be sure of a professional service when you visit a Bridgend Service Centre.

Bridgend Kilwinning have recently entered into a partnership with Bosch Car Service who provide the workshop with manufacturer level diagnostic equipment and technician training that allows them to carry out work that would normally be ultra-specialist. All of the service centres are pre-approved by many of the country’s major lease companies, have courtesy cars and vans available on request or can collect and deliver your vehicle back to you when the work is done.

This continued investment in staff training and our service clubs are all part of Bridgend Motor Group’s commitment to customer service.

Prestige Service

• 50 Point Service • Oil & Filter Change • Air Filter renewed • Spark Plugs or Fuel Filter renewed • Air Con Regas • Electronic Diagnostic Check • Vehicle Safety Check • Wash & Hoover

• 40 Point Service

THE NEWLY RECONSTRUCTED SHOWROOM AT THE ROUNDABOUT ON CAMPBELL STREET, KILMARNOCK

Major Service

£69 INC. VAT

from

£149 INC. VAT

This service has been specifically designed for Prestige/Performance vehicles to offer the same fully comprehensive service that our Major Service provides but using Genuine Manufacturer Parts. from

£199 INC. VAT

Manufacturers Service

We are able to service your car to Manufacturers Specifications with significant savings - we are on average 40% cheaper than Main Dealers.

Dealer Service at Independent Prices. up to

40% OFF

ADD AN MOT TO ANY OF THE ABOVE PACKAGES FOR £30

Over 60?...

What you can expect from all of our Service Centres:

Join our OVER 60’s ADVANTAGE CLUB and reap the rewards…

Open 6 Days A Week While You Wait Appointments

Club Membership is FREE and with great member rewards available every Thursday - make sure you join now and make Thursday your day!!

Free Collection or Delivery Complimentary Courtesy Cars Complimentary Courtesy Vans Approachable Service Team

HALF PRICE MOT’s

We welcome/invite one to one chat

£27.50

Servicing and Repairs for all makes

10% OFF Fixed Price Servicing

Light Commercial Work Undertaken

20% OFF Labour Costs

• 1 to 1 chat about your car with our workshop foreman (Nobody knows your car better than you!)

• Price promise - we stick to what we quote • No additional work ever undertaken without your authority - your opinion counts

• Free seasonal offers & extra exclusive discounts • Free courtesy car (T’s & C’s apply) • Free collection and delivery (within 10 mile radius) • A local company you can trust since 1930

Pop into your local Bridgend branch in Kilwinning, Irvine, Ayr or Kilmarnock to join - don’t forget to bring photographic ID with you.

Open to all over 60’s - even if you didn’t buy your car from us!

MOT’s (including Reminder Service) Fast Fit Bays for Tyres and Exhausts Fully Trained Teams to ATA Standards Online Booking System Approved for most Major Leasing Companies Diagnostics DPF Servicing and Repair Excellent Customer Facilities Servicing to maintain all Warranties Approved for most Major Warranty Companies All Work Guaranteed

Over 1000 quality used cars in stock across the group priced from £2,999 to £29,999

KILWINNING AUTOPLEX Old Glasgow Road Kilwinning KA13 7JB Sales & Service: 01294 555400

GROUP OUTLET

77 East Road, Irvine, KA12 0AA Sales & Service: 01294 275421

AYR AUTOPLEX

Heathfield Ayr KA8 9BN Sales & Service: 01292 290902

KILMARNOCK AUTOPLEX 67-138 Campbell Street Kilmarnock KA1 4HS Sales & Service: 01563 572676

also at BRIDGEND ACCIDENT REPAIR CENTRE Old Glasgow Road, Kilwinning KA13 7JB Sales & Service: 01294 552266

For a record breaking fifth time, Kitchens by J S Geddes have been awarded the kitchen industry's top accolade - 'UK Kitchen Retailer of the Year 2015'.

At a gala black tie event at the illustrious Hilton on Park Lane London, 6 of our team were in attendance to collect the coveted award. In a highly competitive industry with over 6000 kitchen retailers, the much admired Kitchens by J S Geddes brand goes from strength to strength in setting standards and maintaining the highest level of client satisfaction.

The Kilmarnock based

company was founded in 1984 by Jim Geddes who is much respected throughout the industry for his entrepreneurial flair and groundbreaking systems which have been adopted by suppliers and competitors alike.

In his accepting of the prestigious award, Jim paid tribute to his team:

“It is truly a special honor to accept this award on behalf of the entire team at Kitchens by J S Geddes.

It is my privilege to lead a team of committed and highly talented staff who are recognized as the best in the business. We will continue to design and create amazing kitchens taking the utmost care to surpass our clients’ expectations.”

H e al t h yW o rk e rs D e l i v e r H e al t h yP ro f i t s

YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2015

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H W L @ nh s . ne t F o rc o nf i de nt i aladv i c eand s uppo rt :

w w w . h e al t h y w o rk i ngl i v e s . c o m

A dv i c e l i ne 0 8 0 0 0 1 9 2 2 1 1

NEW CHAIR FOR EDR BOARD

15 YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2015

LOCAL COMPANY WINS TOP KITCHEN INDUSTRY AWARD

Gordon McLean from UPM Caledonian, has been appointed as the new Chair of North Ayrshire’s Economic Development & Regeneration (EDR) Board.

He takes up the role this month and succeeds Professor Alan McGregor, University of Glasgow who has been chairman since November 2011.

Technical Director at UPM Caledonian, Irvine - Gordon has 37 years’ experience working in the manufacturing, engineering and renewables sector and has been an EDR private sector board member since 2012.

Gordon added: ““As Chairman, I am working proactively with the board members and North Ayrshire Council to define a few key objectives to prioritise over the next two years.”

SPACEPORT HERALDS NEW ERA IN AEROSPACE SECTOR GROWTH IN AYRSHIRE The team behind the Prestwick Spaceport bid has set out its reasons why it should be the chosen location as the hub for the UK space programme.

The UK Government confirmed in March 2015 that it was proceeding with the critical project to establish a strategic facility for space payload and satellite launch in the UK. This aims to remove the final bottleneck restricting the growth and evolution of the burgeoning UK space industry.

The possible sites announced in July 2014 were narrowed down to just six following a decision by the Ministry of Defence not to offer RAF Lossiemouth or Kinloss Barracks on the Moray coast. They cited pre-eminent ongoing national defence requirements. They also made it clear that RAF Leuchars would only be available on a temporary basis. Following this Highlands and Islands Airports Limited (HIAL) who own and operate the key community airport at Stornoway on the Island of Lewis confirmed that they would not offer Stornoway into the programme. This leaves four sites in contention namely Newquay Airport, formerly RAF Mawgan in South West Cornwall, Llanbedr airfield on the Welsh Snowdonia coast, Machrihanish at Campbeltown on the Kintyre peninsula and Glasgow Prestwick Airport here in Ayrshire.

The spaceport project aims to fill a key

capability gap in the UK space industry namely the ability to launch the new generation of small commercial satellites and run space research experiments. It also creates a location for the much vaunted Space Tourism sector that is emerging through companies such as Virgin Galactic and XCOR. In the longer term, a new era of hypersonic passenger and freight operations will develop, substantially cutting intercontinental journey times.

“

It will give Scotland an entirely new export product.

”

The Spaceport is expected to deliver benefits far beyond Prestwick with many of Ayrshire’s historic engineering capabilities potentially being involved. These include port infrastructure and MoD facilities as well as the multitude of second and third tier engineering capabilities in the region.

Stuart McIntyre, who leads the Prestwick bid, explained: “Beyond the obvious engineering and aerospace elements it is intended that the Prestwick Spaceport includes a substantial Aviation and Space Visitor Attraction, building on Prestwick’s

accessibility to Scotland’s four million central belt population and its easy road and rail links.

“The attraction will add a significant visitor draw to the area and will provide a national focus for STEM education and Space R&D and promoting science and aerospace through access to a full service attraction spanning aviation heritage to the future of space travel.

Space tourism will be possible through sophisticated flight simulators even if you can’t afford the price for a real flight.

“It will give Scotland an entirely new export product as, in conjunction with the rest of the Scottish space industry, we will be able to offer an integrated service to anyone wanting new data from a satellite platform and needing it designed, manufactured, launched and managed.”

Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with South Ayrshire Council, is hosting a briefing with Prestwick Aerospace Operations Group on Thursday 11th June in the Aviator Suite, Glasgow Prestwick Airport.

This short session will provide an overview of Prestwick Aerospace, raise awareness of the work currently being undertaken and allow business leaders to understand the potential impact on the Ayrshire economy.

Full details can be found at the Events section at ayrshire-chamber.org

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On 27th March 2015 over 600 people paid tribute to the sterling work of the Ayrshire business community

AYRSHIRE CHAMBER ANNUAL DINNER 2015 Ayrshire’s business leaders gathered for the highlight of the year the Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner.

Over 600 attended Ayr Racecourse for the gala dinner to celebrate the work of Ayrshire business, hosted by BBC Radio Scotland’s Kaye Adams.

Donald Trump was the guest speaker and spoke of the work at his Turnberry resort and the Red Hot Chilli Pipers rounded off a fantastic evening.

Alan McLeish, of principal sponsor QTS Training, spoke of his group’s success over the past year including the organisation’s sponsorship of the Scottish Football League Cup semifinal and final and how family is at the

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heart of the company.

The dinner paid tribute to the sterling work of the Ayrshire business community and Chamber Chief Executive, Val Russell said: “We have a thriving business community here and our Annual Dinner is about celebrating that.

“We were thrilled to have Mr Trump speak to our guests about his plans for Trump Turnberry and the music from the Red Hot Chilli Pipers finished the night off brilliantly.

“The success of the dinner is down to the hardworking Chamber team who have put in their all to having this memorable night. It couldn’t be done without them.”

“

The success of the dinner is down to the hardworking Chamber team.

”

The winners of the Business Excellence Award were also announced on the night – Utopia Computers collected the Manufacturing Award and William Tracey (Irvine Depot) the Service Award.

Val added: “I’d like to thank Ayr Racecourse for hosting the night and Kaye Adams for presenting, and principal sponsor QTS Training for the continued backing and to all supporting sponsors for their sponsorship of our Annual Dinner.”

Thanks also to our supporting sponsors Barclays, North Ayrshire Council, Adworks, Arran Aromatics, The Races, Ayrshire College, Cover the Big Day, Highland Spring, Media Scotland Taste of Arran, Wades Print, William Grant ,FMX, Film School Ayrshire and FMX. The event would not have been the success it was without their support.

MEMBER NEWS

STUNNING WATERSIDE HOTEL OPENS

Almost FOUR thousand people attended the first ever Ballantrae Food and Drink Festival in May and sampled the best of what Ayrshire and Dumfries and Galloway has to offer.

Star attraction was writer and broadcaster Kirsty Wark who demonstrated her culinary skills using wild garlic from Ballantrae beach foraged by Mark Williams of Galloway Wild Foods.

Multi million pound development is yet another SimpsInns milestone

Trump Turnberry’s Executive Chef Munur Kara shared his tips for cooking locally caught mackerel while Andrew Beattie of the Cook School Scotland worked his magic on local lamb and chicken.

Howard Wilkinson, of Petrie Fine Foods, spoke about how Dunlop cheese has just gained Protected Geographical Status and on the concept of “Slow Food”.

Festival organisers were delighted with the turnout, and event coordinator Susan Crosthwaite said: “The Festival has exceeded all of our expectations. We had optimistically hoped for around two thousand people, and almost double that number attended.

www.tasteayrshire.co.uk

taste

Malcolm and Karen Simpson welcomed their guests to their spectacular new venue; arguably the jewel in the SimpsInns’ crown.

The Gala Evening was a roaring success with much glitz and glamour on show as the saxophonist played while guests and dignitaries dined before celebrating into the night after the fireworks display along the beach adjacent to the Si! Shack.

The Waterside has been trading as an award winning restaurant and bar since opening on the Ardrossan Road at the end of 2011.

However, nothing compares to the wow factor after this £3 million second phase development, which has introduced 23 stunning new bedrooms and suites with views to die for plus the breathtaking 260-seater Kyle Suite for weddings, conferencing and banqueting.

“There is nothing like The Waterside. We have taken full advantage of the front row viewing to Arran from our water’s edge location. We hope our brides, grooms and guests enjoy the place as much as we do.”

“It was a great day for stallholders and local restaurants. Visitors had the chance to sample a huge range of quality food from this area. It shows that a small village like ours can put on a major popular event.

"The Festival was inspired by Ballantrae’s exceptional lamb, beef and seafood produce, and we attracted a wide range of producers

YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2015

“We have come to the end of a five year project and are delighted with the outcome,” added Malcolm.

“We had to maximise the views, it’s all about the location and the quality of finish here,” explained a delighted Malcolm Simpson, who believes they have created something unique and highly desirable right here in Ayrshire.

“The whole community was involved. The work we did with children and staff at Ballantrae and Colmonell Primary schools on healthy eating was on display for all to see.

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A glittering black tie evening marked the opening of the multi million pound Waterside Hotel, West Kilbride, in May.

The venue’s New England/Cape Cod theme carried through to the new hotel and particularly in the bedrooms and suites. A high-end finish throughout has drawn much praise. The immaculate Kyle Suite with adjoining Ailsa Lounge is something to behold as floor to ceiling retractable glass panels provide some of the best views in Ayrshire.

from across South West Scotland. We're playing our part in helping to deliver Scotland’s food strategy in this Year of Food and Drink."

“We plan to build on our success through the Ballantrae Farmers’Markets planned for 16 August and 4 October. We also hope to be able to run another Festival in 2016.”

The Ballantrae Festival of Food & Drink was organised by the Ballantrae Development Group which is a sub group of the Ballantrae Community Council.

A night to remember: one to mark yet another SimpsInns milestone.

YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2015

BALLANTRAE FESTIVAL EXCEEDS ALL EXPECTATIONS

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MEMBER NEWS

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Exclusive deals for Ayrshire Chamber members: Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce strongly believe investing in youth is vital to push forward your business. Young workforces bring freshness, vitality and new ideas with them to energise business.

Business Excellence (Manufacturing) Award winner Utopia Computers are a ‘young’ team with a big future. The Chamber caught up with them in their Kilmarnock base to find out why they had impressed the Business Excellence judging panel so much and named as winners.

YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2015

Director Craig Hume, whose dad started the business in 1993, said: “We have a young team that is creative and willing to learn. We’re all interested in IT.

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“My dad, Ian, started up the company when he saw a need for servicing and IT while I was still at school and University. The business started off in the house and then moved to a market stall!”

Utopia Computers started building custom PCs back in 1993, established out of the need for a computer builder who could supply a bespoke, great performing PC. Fast forward to present day, that concept by producing elite, custom built PCs backed up with almost 20 years of knowledge, experience and national award-winning service & support has served them well.

With Ian taking a backseat role in the business, Craig has been joined by Mark Laurie as a director in the company and the pair have set about taking the company forward – with the entire staff firmly at the helm. Craig said: “We believe in staff empowerment, I believe it

benefits our business. We adopted the Google 20 per cent mantra to allow our staff time to work on new ideas that can help the business - this is how our new website came about.”

Today, Utopia Computers have their own shop in Kilmarnock, a nine-man team of staff and an ever increasing amount of awards on the shelf. Their faith in the young workforce is highlighted when a recent ’30 under 30 working in the UK IT Industry’ included three members of the Utopia team.

The company also took the big step last year to introduce the Living Wage to all staff –the first computer manufacturer to be officially accredited - and Craig feels a change in attitude is required to see it fully implemented in all businesses.

He explained: “The Living Wage was something I

thought long and hard about introducing. I felt it was the right way to go and best for the staff, although I did have work to persuade the accountant about paying more.

“The result of introducing it has been there for me to see. Productivity is up and morale is great. It has made a difference to their lives; it has offered them more financial security. There’s definitely a change of attitude required to see more employers introduce the Living Wage.”

The youthful drive and enthusiasm at Utopia has brought its rewards – seven awards in the last eight years including PCR Best Service & Support in the UK, UK’s Best Independent Retailer and UKs best retail experience.

Craig added: “Our customer service has always been the core value of our company. This has seen customers from all over the UK continue to return to Utopia repeatedly for their computer requirements.”

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NEWS

ANCIENT FESTIVAL STILL PROVIDES FRESH OPPORTUNITIES Irvine’s Marymass Festival has been celebrated locally for centuries and is recognised as a major event that annually attracts thousands of visitors, many from outwith Ayrshire, during a 12-day period in midAugust.

Based historically on a medieval religious festival and horse fair, Marymass has developed into a major multi-faceted community and national event that incorporates a Harbourside Festival with spectacular dragon-boat racing on the estuary.

The celebrations attract huge numbers throughout the 12 days to enjoy the annual festival.

Once totally funded and produced by the Local Authority with input from related voluntary organisations, Marymass is now managed entirely by volunteers which makes it dependent on raising sponsorship support.

Indicative of how successful this new approach can be, Marymass 2013 won the prestigious “Toast of Ayrshire”Award because of its enhanced range of activities and increased crowds Try sponsoring something at this year’s Marymass Festival (from 15th to 24th August) via the Sponsorship section at www.marymass.com

THROWING OPEN THE DOORS….

Urquhart Opticians are throwing open the doors to their newly refurbished practice in Prestwick on the afternoon of Saturday 20th June.

The afternoon will consist of face painting, competitions, giveaways and the launch of Frozen frames for children. Urquhart Opticians will be one of only a handful of suppliers to stock this unique range and children will have the opportunity to meet Frozen character Olaf on the afternoon.

Optician and Partner Alistair Duff commented: “Patients, existing and new, are welcome at our open afternoon. Our refurbishment focusses on the needs of our patients, with significant investment in equipment and fittings to ensure we continue to provide an expert service in a relaxed and welcoming setting.”

He added: “Next year we are celebrating our 100 year anniversary and this is just the beginning of the improvements. Further refurbishment is planned for late 2015 for our Kilmarnock and Troon practices.

“Our patient base is continuing to grow in all of these locations, in most part due to our eye care professionals spending time with patients and focussing on their eye health as being the most important part of our service.”

The open afternoon will run from 2pm – 4pm and for further details please call 01292 475603.

CHAMBER AWARDS 12TH YEAR TO SHOWCASE BEST OF BRITISH BUSINESSES This year, the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) is proud to be hosting its twelfth annual Chamber Awards. Businesses across the UK are invited to showcase their talents and achievements – with the chance of winning a £10,000 cash prize.

The prestigious competition recognises and promotes the best of British business through a series of regional heats, culminating in a Gala Awards dinner, which will take place in London on 26th November.

For the first time in its history, the Chamber Awards will include an‘Education and Business Partnership Award’, which will celebrate the efforts of schools and colleges to engage with their local business community. The award supports the wider activity that Chambers of Commerce are already doing around the country to bridge the gap between the world of education and the world of work.

Companies can enter into eight categories, covering exports, small business, people development, technology, high-growth firms, community, young people and partnerships with the education sector.

Nora Senior, President of the British Chambers of Commerce said:“The Chamber Awards recognise and celebrate the contribution of businesses to their local community and the wider economy.

YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2015

“As I travel around the UK, visiting businesses of all sizes, it is inspiring to see so many companies finding innovative ways to grow their business, which will in turn create jobs and wealth, and deliver economic prosperity. Our Awards acknowledge the relentless efforts of these businesses and their talented employees.

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23 YOUR BUSINESS | SPRING 2015

MEMBER NEWS

“This year we are introducing a category that recognises the partnership between education and business in order to develop the talents of our next generation. The award highlights the significance the Chamber Network and businesses place on preparing young people for the world of work.”

Last year’s awards saw four businesses from Ayrshire reach the final – Internet Anywhere, Buzzworks Holdings, QTS Group and Sercon Ltd. Applications can be made at chamberawards.co.uk Deadline for application is Friday 26th June.

MCKINSTRY COMPANY CONTINUES EXPANSION Prominent Ayrshire Legal Practice, The McKinstry Company, is pleased to announce its acquisition of the Girvan Law Firm, Murray & Tait.

In recent years The McKinstry Company has demonstrated a continuous and strategic growth and development in the acquisition two years of wellestablished blue chip legal practices in Ayr, most recently with the acquisition of McMillan Kilpatrick when it became part of the enterprise.

The firm’s most recent acquisition marks an innovation in its strategic development and this new growth of the business opens up an entirely new market to the spectrum of legal services which the firm provides across business law, all aspects of property transactions, succession planning, mitigation or Inheritance Tax, family law and litigation.

The McKinstry Company has a long association with Murray & Tait whose principal Peter Sharp trained in the same Ayr Practice as Graeme McKinstry, Senior Partner of The McKinstry Company.

This latest exciting development

introduces an entirely new client base and market to The McKinstry Company for the provision of the range of services throughout the more rural part of South Ayrshire.

The firm now boasts five Partners, 11 solicitors across three offices complemented by a support staff of 23, all using state of the art technology and business systems.

In welcoming Peter and his three colleagues, Sandra, Helen and Sharon to the practice, Graeme commented: “We look forward with anticipation and enthusiasm to extending the range of services which have previously been available to clients of Murray & Tait and to new clients in the Girvan area who shall now have the opportunity to seeking advice and legal services across the whole spectrum of advice which we offer.

“We are delighted to continue our association with Peter and his colleagues and look forward to a bright and successful future.”

Ayrshire Chamber

MIX

T: 01292 678 666 F: 01292 678 667 E: engage@ayrshire-chamber.org www.ayrshire-chamber.org

M oulding young people I nto employment X ponentially!

Sam acted as a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) ambassador to work directly with the teachers to help them bring relevance and understanding of various subjects to their pupils.

She said: “I met with teachers and discussed what I could offer and what they felt would help them and their pupils.

YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2015

“A lot of teachers were interested in my PhD project (stem cells for stroke recovery) and asked me to do a talk combining my career journey, basics on stem cells, stroke recovery, and the use of animals in research.

24

“Advanced higher pupils currently doing their experimental investigations, asked me to design and deliver a workshop for their experimental design. This included a short talk on how to design an experiment, the main concepts and important factors to consider when doing a research project.

“I greatly benefited from internship, it was a great experience to be part of a fantastic organisation and work closely with schools and pupils. Doing this has improved my communications skills on and given me more confidence at presenting and speaking to large audiences.”

Carrick Academy pupils Ross Grant and Emily Purdie spent their placement at Minishant Primary in two separate roles.

Ross Grant and Emily Purdie - Carrick Academy

Ross’s post was Administration Assistant - working in the school office assisting with reception, correspondence, filing, assisting school Clerical Assistant, mailing administration of school trips and school meals.

CHAMBER WELCOMES PHD STUDENT

Ayrshire Chamber hosted Strathclyde University PhD student Samantha White for three months to offer local schools her expertise on Stem Cell research.

EMILY AND ROSS VISIT MINISHANT PRIMARY

25 YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2015

The

Emily’s post was a Teaching Assistant, helping teachers with classroom activities, helping small groups of children with all curricular activities.

A school spokesperson said: “Both pupils took on anything that was asked of them. They were a pleasure to have in school.”

CUMNOCK PLASTIC PRODUCTS MANUFACTURES LOCAL SUPPORT

When Cumnock Academy received funding to buy a laser cutter for its technology department, faculty head Lindsay Bull saw an opportunity for his students to run their own social enterprise business.

Lindsay brought together a group of third year pupils, including several from Cumnock Academy’s supported learning centre, to produce keyrings under the banner of Cumnock Plastic Products.

This caught the attention of Wendy Pring, Managing Director of local waste management firm, KCP, who ordered a run

Heather McCallum – Garnock Academy

HITTING THE RIGHT NOTE Garnock Academy pupil Heather McCallum spent her work experience placement with North Ayrshire Council’s Music service.

Heather visited a number of schools throughout North Ayrshire to support instructors with their music lessons to children.

of promotional key rings for her business and has since worked with the students to devise new products including branded door hangers, clocks and engraved glasses.

Now, with support from KCP, Cumnock Plastic Products will take part in the Sir Tom Hunter Challenge in June. The competition is part of East Ayrshire Council’s business enterprise.

Wendy says: “I’m incredibly proud of the success of Cumnock Plastic Products and it is all down to the commitment and creativity of the students involved.”

NORTH AYRSHIRE CAREERS CONFERENCE

North Ayrshire Council in conjunction with Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce held an Employer Event for over 200 students from across North Ayrshire.

The event, held in the Greenwood Conference Centre, saw over 40 local businesses meet with the young people to get them thinking about their career opportunities.

A number of employers who attended the event also had ‘live vacancies’ for pupils who were looking to leave school in the coming months.

Heather said: “I've been out and about with different Instrumental Instructors and have visited lots of primary schools. It's interesting seeing all the music lessons going on in the primary schools especially the whole class activities like Soundstart Band and String Orchestra class. As I can play a few instruments I've been able help in the lessons which has been great fun.

“I've really enjoyed my placement with North Ayrshire's Music Service.”

BACK TO SCHOOL

Kayleigh Gemmell – Auchinleck Academy

Auchinleck Academy pupil Kayleigh Gemmell spent her work experience placement at St Patrick’s Primary school in the village.

Kayleigh said: “I love it! I’m getting on well with everyone and am really enjoying all the different activities. I’ve enjoyed working with children of different ages and abilities and supporting their individual needs.

The third-year pupil was involved in science activities with some of Primary four pupils.

Her duties also included; working with small groups of children on different

curricular areas, supervising pupils in the playground and dinner hall, helping

teachers to produce resources together with general clerical activities.

Catriona Gray, Head Teacher: “We enjoy supporting Work Placement students in our school. There are benefits for our school as well as the students. We try to give them as wide a range of experiences as possible and ensure they spend some time in each of the classes.”

WORK EXPERIENCE

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This award merits furnishings, fully equipped self-catering facilities to providing excellence within the hospitality furnishings, fully open equipped self-catering facilities to providing excellence within the hospitality of Lowes. Relax and enjoy the spectacular sunofthe the lodges, withmodern modern andand contemporary recognition oftheir their dedication and commitment “This is first phase of a multi-million of lodges, with and contemporary recognition of dedication and commitment of the lodges, with modern and contemporary recognition of their dedication and commitment ofsets the lodges, with modern contemporary recognition of their dedication and commitment and the ultimate in entertainment systems and industry.

Since the purchase of Lochside in or watch the local wildlifeand on and around Robert Kyle, proprietors of the RAD and the ultimatefurnishings, in entertainment systems industry.

Sinceand theVivien purchase of Lochside in fullyequipped equipped self-catering facilities toproviding providing excellence within the hospitality furnishings, fully self-catering facilities excellence within the hospitality furnishings, fully equipped self-catering facilities to toHotel providing excellence within hospitality furnishings, fully equipped self-catering facilities to providing excellence within the hospitality appliances.

1999, the RAD Hotelwere Group hasthe grown in stature pound development on the park. the Loch.

Group who recently awarded the appliances. and 1999, the RAD Hotel Group has grown in stature andand theultimate ultimate entertainment systems andand industry.

Since the purchase ofLochside Lochside the inininentertainment systems and industry.

Since the purchase of ininin Ayrshire the ultimate in entertainment systems industry.

Since the of Lochside inHoand the ultimate entertainment systems and industry.

Since the purchase of Lochside to include four unique hotels throughout Over the last 7 years the park has seen prestigious title ofpurchase Scottish Independent appliances.

1999, the RAD Hotel Group hashas grown instature stature appliances.

1999, the RAD Hotel Group grown in stature appliances.

1999, the RAD Hotel Group has grown in to include four unique hotels throughout Ayrshire appliances.

1999, the RAD Hotel Group has grown in stature Sip refreshments from the wine chill while relaxand Lanarkshire, with the lodges providing an With an overwhelming feeling of space, the teliers 2014 at the Scottish Hotel Awards are an investment of £20million”, says to include four unique hotels throughout Ayrshire to include four unique hotels throughout Ayrshire to include four unique hotels throughout Ayrshire to include four unique hotels throughout Ayrshire ing in the hydro pool or sauna on your private exciting new addition to the group.

Sip refreshments fromopen theplan wineliving chillandwhile and Lanarkshire, withthethe lodges providing an diningrelaxarea is the heart delighted with lodges.

This award merits the Paul Nicol, Operations Director, “the Siprefreshments refreshments fromfrom thewine winewine chillchill while relaxandand Lanarkshire, withwith thethe lodges providing anan Sip the while relax- and Lanarkshire, lodges providing Sip from the chill while relaxLanarkshire, with the lodges providing an Sip refreshments from the wine chill while relaxand Lanarkshire, with the lodges providing an wraparound terrace, alternatively cosy around of refreshments the lodges, with modern and contemporary recognition of their dedication and commitment ing in the hydro pool or sauna on your private exciting new addition to the group. inginin in the hydro poolpool orsauna sauna onyour your private exciting newnew addition tothe thethe group. ing inhydro the or sauna on your private exciting addition to group. ing the pool or on private new addition to group. ing the hydro pool or sauna on your private exciting new addition to the group. feedback we have received from our the fire on hydro welcoming couches after an afterfurnishings, fully equipped self-catering facilitiesexciting to providing excellence within the hospitality alternatively cosy around wraparound terrace, alternatively cosy around wraparound terrace, alternatively cosy around wraparound terrace, alternatively cosy around wraparound terrace, alternatively cosy around noon of treatments in the Hotel’s award winning guests has been really positive and we wraparound terrace, and the ultimate in entertainment systems and industry. Since the purchase of Lochside in the fire on welcoming couches after an afterthefire fire on welcoming couches after anafterafterthe on welcoming couches an the fire on welcoming couches after an aftercouches after anafter afterappliances.

1999, the RAD Hotel Group has grown in stature look forward to further developments the fire on welcoming noon of treatments in Hotel’s the Hotel’s award winning noon oftreatments treatments inthe the Hotel’s award winning noon of in award winning noon of treatments in the Hotel’s award winning to include four unique hotels throughout Ayrshire noon of treatments in the Hotel’s award winning on the holiday park in the future.”

East Ayrshire KA18 1TP

Nr New Cumnock Nr New Cumnock Nr Cumnock East Ayrshire NrNew New Cumnock East Ayrshire East KA18 1TP EastAyrshire Ayrshire KA18 1TP KA18 KA181TP 1TP Nr New Cumnock East Ayrshire KA18 1TP

MAKING A BIG SPLASH!

Work has been completed on a multimillion pound refurbishment at Craig Tara’s swimming pool.

Haven has invested in excess of £3 million in re-styling their pool complex at Craig Tara Holiday Park in Ayr. It is the largest pool area in the Haven portfolio and features include three pools, a children’s paddling area with mini slide and water play features, nearly 200m of giant flumes, a 90m rapid ride and a 30m three lane slide the pool. Haven worked closely with A&M Architects, Leisure Concepts Ltd and NCF Systems Ltd to ensure that

Craig Tara Holiday Park welcomes 130,000 holidaymakers each year and nearly 1000 families love it so much they own their own a holiday home on site.

Sip refreshments from the wine chill while relaxing in the hydro pool or sauna on your private wraparound terrace, alternatively cosy around the fire on welcoming couches after an afternoon of treatments in the Hotel’s award winning

and Lanarkshire, with the lodges providing an exciting new addition to the group.

O’NEIL’S GAS CELEBRATE ISO 9001

YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2015

O’Neil Gas recently achieved certification to ISO 9001 for the companies Quality Management system with NQA, a leading UKAS Global certification Body.

26

ISO 9001 is the internationally recognised standard for Quality Management Systems (QMS). It is the most widely used QMS standard in the world, with over 1.1 million certificates issued to organisations in 178 countries.

ISO 9001 provides a framework and set of principles that ensure a commonsense approach to the management of an organisation to consistently satisfy customers and other stakeholders. In simple terms, it provides the basis for

effective processes and effective people to deliver an effective product or service time after time.

The company knew by going through the ISO 9001 process, a huge investment in time and training of its staff was required. However, the most important aspect was that at the end of the process the company would improve the quality of service provided to their customers.

MD, Brian O’Neil was thrilled with the company’s success. He said: “This is clearly a huge achievement for O’Neil’s.

“I am delighted our company has been awarded an international award for quality. All the long hours & hard work of

I my staff and myself is completely worth it when you achieve awards like IS0 9001.”

The team at O’Neil’s were also visited

by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon as she gave her support to SNP MP Corri Wilson in Ayr.

INTRODUCTORY OFFER O FAvailable F FF EEfrom R I INNTTRROODDUUCCTTOORRYY O R Available from Available from June to Nov Available from Nov 2015 June totoNov Nov to N TI NR TOR O D DUUCC TT O O F FR O RRYY O June FJune2015 F E 2015 2015

E

Available from CALL NOW TO BOOK ON: 01290 333000 Available June to Nov CALLNOW NOWTO TOBOOK BOOKON: ON:01290 01290333000 333000 CALL June to N 2015

CALL NOW TO BOOK ON: 01290 333000

2015

CALL NOW TO BOOK ON: 01290 333000

Rewarding you for championing your chamber

REFERRAL SCHEME

We're asking you to help by referring companies you know to us.

When they join, we'll reward you with a choice of free offers and discounts to help your business. Choose from:

Think you know someone who should be part of Ayrshire’s biggest business network? REFER THEM! Dealing with employment issues is becoming increasingly difficult, time consuming and costly.

For example, did you know that if you employ at least one person you need a compliant Contract of Employment and a Grievance and Disciplinary Procedure? Failure to comply could lead to financial penalties being imposed by an Employment Tribunal.

Ayrshire Chamber has teamed up with Qdos Consulting and Composite Legal Expenses to provide the Chamber

YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2015

• A FREE TICKET to our Annual Dinner or the Ayrshire Business Awards • 50% OFF a full page advert in 'Your Business' magazine

HR human resource solution as part of your membership benefits.

Our service provides fully paid members with FREE unlimited access to a Human Resource and Health & Safety Advice Line -24 hours a day, 7 days a week and access to: Over 250

EMPLOYEE HEALTH There are many reasons to join Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce including expanding your business network and customer base. However, one of our most popular and well used services is the Chamber Primary Health Plan.

Business Development Manager Helen McBride said: “We are always looking to increase our membership and the referral scheme rewards our members for recommending what we do.”

Visit our website today and look for the Referral Scheme link to recommend a business you think should be part of Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce.

The perfect solution to employing people properly

Chamber HR is a complementary service to the Legal Expenses Scheme, so not only will you receive proactive advice but also reactive insurance to cover the cost of representation and awards in respect of Employment Tribunal claims.

Healthy staff make your business better

28

• 50% OFF your annual membership fee (conditions apply)

We always want to recruit more members to strengthen our network and create more business opportunities for you.

CHAMBER HR downloadable policies, forms, documents, letters, templates and fact sheets.

We offer our membership an exclusive, affordable and highly valued employee benefit with our award winning health provider, Westfield Health.

Audrey McFarlane, Westfield Health, explained: “We’ve been working in partnership with the Chamber for more than 10 years and have been supporting people throughout their working lives and beyond for almost a century. Our innovative, best in class health cover starts from just £4.77 per employee, per month, and includes Personal Accident Cover as standard. And as a leading provider of corporate health insurance nobody knows more about keeping people healthy, motivated and fit for work than we do.”

The Chamber plan provides health

cover that really works hard for you and your employees. It can be purchased as a standalone product or combined with Hospital Treatment Insurance to provide a more continuous health package by combining everyday health cover and essential diagnostic benefits with access to prompt private surgery.

The plan provides your staff with a range of valuable cash benefits and services. They will receive money back, up to set limits, towards the cost of their essential healthcare including new glasses or contact lenses, dental treatment and physiotherapy.

To find out more on about this fantastic healthcare package contact our membership 01292 678 666.

APPLY FOR THE AYRSHIRE BUSINESS AWARDS 2015 Time is running out to enter to enter the Ayrshire Business Awards 2015!

The 2015 categories are: • Family Business Award sponsored by Ingram Motoring Group

Deadline for the area’s top business awards ceremony is Friday 26th June at 5pm. The Awards were launched at this Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Dinner in March.

• Health at Work Award sponsored by Westfield Health

The Ayrshire Business Awards provide an opportunity for local businesses to demonstrate excellence, gain recognition for their achievements and showcase outstanding examples of how the region’s businesses are driving forward the local economy.

• Most Promising New Business Award sponsored by Business Gateway

Val Russell, Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce Chief Executive said: “The Business Awards are a real highlight of the Chamber year.

“The standard of applicants continues to be outstanding and allows us all to celebrate the high calibre of businesses we have across many sectors in Ayrshire.

“There are many worthy winners in Ayrshire and it is always an extremely difficult task to choose a shortlist in each category. Despite it being difficult it is a very encouraging process as it highlights the strength in business Ayrshire has.”

Due to the success of the previous years’ partnership, Ingram Motoring Group has continued to support the awards as Principal Sponsor.

• Investors in Education Award sponsored by GlaxoSmithKline • Innovation in Business Award sponsored by North Ayrshire Council • Excellence in People Development Award sponsored by Microtech • Entrepreneur of the Year Award sponsored by Entrepreneurial Spark • Tourism Award sponsored by Media Scotland (Ayrshire Post, Kilmarnock Standard & Irvine Herald) • Excellence in International Trade Award sponsored by South Ayrshire Council • Excellence in Customer Service Award sponsored by First Independent Finance • Local Food Hero sponsored by East Ayrshire Council • Modern Apprentice of the Year Award sponsored by Trump Turnberry • Outstanding Performing Business with less than 25 employees sponsored by Clydesdale Bank • Outstanding Performing Business with more than 25 employees sponsored by Ayrshire Weekly Press

Malcolm Ingram, Managing Director said: “The Ayrshire Business Awards have grown to become an outstanding event, there is an excellent variety of opportunities within the week to showcase all types of business with the actual awards ceremony being one of the highlights of the year.

The closing date for applications is Friday 26thJune 2015 at 5pm with the winners being announced at the Gala Dinner on 8thOctober at Seamill Hydro.

“I have sponsored the event since its inception and I’ve been delighted with exposure it has given my business.”

Applications can be downloaded on our website ayrshire-chamber.org

WE WOULD LIKE TO THANK THE FOLLOWING CATEGORY SPONSORS

29 YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2015

CHAMBER SERVICES

EVENTS DIARY SUMMER 2015 TICK TALK NETWORKING @ THE CARRICK CENTRE MAYBOLE 10th June 5.30- 7.30pm Host and Sponsor: The Carrick Centre £15

CTA-BIDDING TO WIN 14th June 8.30am- 11.00am Venue: Ayrshire Chamber Boardroom Facilitated by : Kelly Morris Consulting £35

ISLAND SAFARI ON ARRAN 24th June 9.30am – 5.45pm Sponsored by: Caledonian MacBrayne and Stagecoach West of Scotland.

Full day: Tour the North of the island and visit Arran Heritage Centre: Distillery : Balmichael Visitor Centre £48

SUMMER RECESS!

FIRST AID AT WORK 3 Day H&S approved courses Running 15th – 17th June 9am – 4pm Venue: Ayrshire Chamber Board Room £234 per session

SUMMER SEGWAY & NETWORKING @ BOSWELLS COACH HOUSE 19th August 5.00-7.00pm Host and Sponsor: Boswells Coach House and Ayrshire Segway £15

CTA- HEALTH AND SAFETY EXPLAINED 19th June 8.30-11.00am Venue: Ayrshire Chamber Boardroom Facilitated by : HSS Training £35

CTA- ACHIEVING ONLINE SUCCESS 20th August Venue: Ayrshire Chamber Boardroom Facilitated by: Outbox 4 Marketing £35

Providing you the opportunity to meet contact, expand your knowledge and grow your business

BEHIND THE SCENES TOUR & LUNCH @ BROWNING THE BAKERS 26th August 11.00am – 2.00pm Venue: Browning the Bakers Kilmarnock Places limited to 20, early booking recommended £15 BREAKFAST BYTES WITH RBS ... ACQUISITIONS & BUY OUTS 28th August 8.30- 10am Venue: Ayrshire Chamber Board Room Sponsored by RBS FREE CTA- USING EXCEL EFFECTIVELY FOR YOUR BUSINESS 2nd September 8.30-11.00am Venue: Ayrshire Chamber Boardroom Facilitated by: GTG Training £35

SWING INTO NETWORKING @ DUNDONALD LINKS 4th September 8.30- 12.30pm Venue: Dundonald Links 9 hole stableford competition with breakfast & prize giving lunch £40 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING 2015 10th September 5.00-7.30pm Venue: Aviator Suite, Prestwick Airport and Mezzanine, Ayrshire Chamber Sponsored by: Browning the Bakers FREE

YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2015

Members gathered at Seamill Hydro for our popular Tick Talk Networking. Delegates were welcomed on arrival with a cocktail or mocktail and canapés in the Auro Lounge, before moving to the Brisbane Suite for our speed networking session.

30

Shirlaws Coaching delivered the first in a series of three Lunch & Learn sessions in the Chamber boardroom where members were given a workshop on laying a platform for business growth.

“Shirlaws lunch and learn Sessions provided a wealth of information allowing me to review and restructure.”

Ken Mackenzie, Ayrshire Shop Fronts Ltd Next up was Soul Success at Enterkine House Hotel, delivered by Marion Graham of Soul Success - a unique session allowing women to put their success centre stage. “Simply the best confidence build I have ever experienced!” Lian Tollins, Arthur J. Gallagher Insurance Brokers Ltd

Shirlaws Coaching second Lunch & Learn provided delegates with some tools and techniques when planning for growth, explaining six key strategies.

Blairquhan Castle hosted Tick Talk Networking. Guests were welcomed with refreshments before moving to the Drawing Room for networking. Border Cars, Ayr, brought the new Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, for guests to test drive the hybrid car.

We hosted breakfast on the balcony with our sponsor RBS, who have partnered with Chamber to deliver a series of ‘Business Bytes Breakfasts.’ The first in the series was Fraud Awareness with guest speaker

ANDREW WRIGHT WINDOWS Irvine Mr Charlie Berry 01294 211227 www.andrewwright.co.uk AYR COLUMBARIUM AND MUSEUM Prestwick Ms Gillian Evans 01292 811678 www.ayrcolumbarium.co.uk BRAIN MAXX TRAINING LTD Ayr Mr Alan Lee 07814 528087 www.brainmaxxtraining.co.uk

SAVE THE DATE: AYRSHIRE BUSINESS WEEK 2015 5th – 9th October Full programme coming soon!

BRIDGEND MOTOR GROUP Kilwinning Mr Graham Kirkwood 01294 555400 www.bridgendgroup.co.uk

CHAMBER EVENTS ROUND UP Commerce Kicks, our 5-a-side football challenge, returned at the PowerLeague, Kilmarnock. Over 80 competitors took part and it was the team from Brownings who collected the 2015 winners’ trophies, beating Barclays in a close final. Thanks Browning the Bakers for the Killie Pies!

ALPHA FIRE & SECURITY Auchincruive Mr Graham Cree 01292 525884 www.alphaec.com

TICK TALK NETWORKING @ THE TRIPTYCH CONFERENCE CENTRE, KILMARNOCK 24th September 5.30- 7.30pm Host and Sponsor: Triptych £15

Price shown are Chamber Members rates and include VAT unless otherwise stated. To book or for more info visit www.ayrshire-chamber.org or call 01292 678666

BY YVONNE MUNRO

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

Stewart Thom, Customer Security Business Partner.

Next was Swing into Networking at Dundonald Links, members met in the clubhouse for breakfast before teeing off in our nine-hole Stableford competition. Taking 1st prize on 19pts was Andrew Vernon, Hillhouse Quarry, second Glenn Hays of Working Links, Longest drive Craig Hills Lombards, and nearest the pin Andrew Vernon. Thanks to sponsors Alex Begg, Dundonald Links, Seamill Hydro, and Dewar Rattray.

Chamber Training Academy sessions covered: Help Google Love your Website and Deliver Customers by Boyd Digital, Influence and Negotiation Skills

by Rock Training and Building Self Esteem and Assertiveness by GTG Training. Planning is underway for the 2015/16 programme, if there is a topic you would like included, email Yvonne at events@ayrshire-chamber.org

DOUGLAS HART SPECIALIST EYEWEAR Ayr Mr Douglas Hart 07531 646 514 www.dharteyewear.co.uk ECCO HEALTHCARE LTD Drongan Mr Chris Livingstone 01292 739229 FIT4EVERMORE Kilwinning Ms Clare Buddle 07814 788408 www.fit4evermore.co.uk GADGET GURU Irvine Mr Steven Kyle 01294 315065 www.gadgetguruayrshire.com GRASS US IN Ardrossan Mr John Sallens 07720 865126 www.grassusin.co.uk

CALMAN TECHNOLOGY LTD Irvine Ms Emma Webb 01294 313104 www.calman.co.uk

HUSSE Cumnock Mr Kevin Simmonds 07939 550943 www.husse.co.uk

CLIC SARGENT PRESTWICK Mrs May Gilchrist 01292 671233 www.sargent.org

IAIN GREER Kilmarnock Mr Iain Greer 07446 860243

COLOURFUL VENTURES LTD Balmichael Mr James Clark 07944 096977

JAYLINE BEARINGS LTD Irvine Mr John Millar 01292 678751

CONSILIUM CONTRACTING SERVICES LTD Dalry Mr Paul McGrath 0800 6891462 www.consiliumcs.co.uk

JOHN AIRD & COMPANY LTD Irvine Mr Mark Winter 01294 275530 www.johnaird.co.uk

CROWN CHIPPY Ayr Ms Pratiksha Jaiswal 07871 476073

LOCHAVEN INTERNATIONAL Kilmarnock Mr Keith Murray 01560 483062 www.lochaven.co.uk

NE

MEMBW ERS

M&M THEATRICAL PRODUCTIONS Ayr Mrs Maggie Holloway 01292 618500 www.magicoftheatre.com

SHINE N PRESS LTD Beith Ms Ann Bloor 07523 134276 www.shinenpressltd.co.uk

MHC FIRE SAFETY AND RISK Saltcoats Mr Michael Crawford 07854 156249

SOS LAUNDRY AND CLEANING Ayr Mr Stephen Newall 01292 270133 www.soslaundry.co.uk

MURPHY-SCOULAR FINANCIAL SERVICES Ayr Ms Louise Murphy 01292 288177 www.murphyscoular.com NUSKIN Skelmorlie Ms Catherine Freeman 07818 406130 ODOUR & DUST SOLUTIONS LTD Stewarton Ms Stephanie McInroy 01560 480822 www.odourdust.com PAINT RITE Dreghorn Mr Lindsay McLardy 07917 725457 www.paint-rite.co.uk PIN CUSHION INTERIORS Prestwick Ms Rhona Young 01292 738112 www.pincushioninteriors.co.uk PLANET BAKE Ayr Mr Steven Hammond 01292 268184 www.planetbake.co.uk ROTARY CLUB OF AYR Ayr Mr Craig Wilson 07747 606964 www.rotaryclubofayr.org

SOUTH CARRICK COMMUNITY LEISURE Girvan Mr Andrew Sinclair 07759 753425 www.southcarrickcommunityleisure.co.uk TECHNONERD West Kilbride Mr Adam Lennox 07769 819 723 THE BRAIN TUMOUR CHARITY Prestwick Mrs Vivienne McBeth 07507 483496 www.thebraintumourcharity.org THE BRIDES GUIDE Troon Mrs Clare McInally 01292 737340 www.thebridesguide.org.uk THISTLE HELP Irvine Mr George Ruddick 01294 313369 www.thistlehelp.co.uk TOTAL RENEWABLES SCOTLAND LTD Cumnock Mr Robert Laurie 01290 810232

SEP HORIZONS Kilmarnock Mr Hugh Fitzpatrick 01563 573830

WA & E GRANT FRUITERERS Prestwick Mr Scott Grant 01292 476117 www.grantsofprestwick.co.uk

SHEPHERDS CARPENTRY Irvine Mr Iain Shepherd 07958 716639 www.shepherdscarpentry.com

WOODYS ICE CREAM Galston Ms Jill Woodburn 01290 553524 www.woodysicecream.co.uk

We want to recruit more members to strengthen our business network and create more business opportunities for you. We are asking you to help by referring companies you know to us. When they join, we’ll reward you with a choice of special offers to help your business. Call the membership team on 01292 678666.