Your Business Summer 2017

business your

the magazine of Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce and Industry

summer 2017 £2

PLATINUM JUBILEE

CELEBRATING OUR SPECIAL YEAR

WE ARE HOSTING SOME EXTRA SPECIAL PLATINUM EVENTS Compete for the Ayrshire Chamber Platinum Championship Trophy!

See page 5

WELCOME

BUSINESS MUST COME FIRST This year is certainly proving interesting with some unexpected outcomes in our local elections and a general election around the corner!

We are being asked to make important choices which will impact on the future of the country.

VAL RUSSELL ACCI CHIEF EXECUTIVE

CONTACTS 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

Graeme McKinstry

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

A new UK Government will herald new opportunities for it to work more closely and effectively with Scotland’s businesses; and Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce has called for a renewed role for the Scotland Office in generating new partnerships to help grow Scotland’s economy.

“

The UK Government has a key role to play in supporting Scottish firms to grow and to take advantage of the opportunities that the UK’s changing international relationships will bring.

”

While an unexpected General Election adds further to the compounded uncertainty generated by recent elections and referendums, it also presents an opportunity for the next UK Government to take a fresh look at its strategy, and in particular how it engages with Ayrshire businesses. The UK Government has a key role to play in supporting Scottish firms to grow and to take advantage of the opportunities that

the UK’s changing international relationships will bring.

The UK Government in Scotland must become as open and accessible as the Scottish Government already is.

The Scotland Office must transform its perception and its operation in order to become a functional hub for UK Government services in Scotland, fully aligned and in tune with Scottish business needs. As part of this, the new Department for International Trade must formulate a new partnership with Scottish business that will help to encourage more of our businesses to export and which will harness the international connectivity of the UK Government alongside the deep-rooted business to business links that organisations such as Chambers of Commerce can bring to the table.

Whatever the composition of the new UK Government following next month’s elections, there will be a clear opportunity for it to deliver closer connections with Scotland’s businesses, to reinvent the nature of its activity in Scotland and to play a key role alongside the Scottish Government in working to build on the huge potential for success across Scottish business; in particular, helping our small and medium sized businesses to succeed in exporting.

We will be issuing a survey to assess what support is required to support our members and wider business community to seek new markets. I would ask you take the time to complete the International Trade Survey to ensure we focus our support where needed most.

YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2017

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PARTNERS FOR BUSINESS

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

YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2017

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

4

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.

CHAMBER NEWS

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It began with our Platinum Anniversary Dinner in March at Trump Turnberry, hit the fairways at Dundonald Links and continues throughout the year with several prestigious and fun events to celebrate 70 years of Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce.

A fun programme was designed to offer less formal opportunities to network, entertain clients and celebrate Ayrshire’s largest business network turning 70.

Lorna Gibson, Vice President of Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce and chair of the Platinum Events committee, said:“Being in business for this length of time is something to shout about we feel and this is why we created a calendar of events commemorate that.

“The Platinum Dinner in March at Trump Turnberry was a massive success and the Platinum Golf Challenge was an excellent day at Dundonald Links in May. “We’re now looking forward to the Platinum 5-a-side cup in June and seeing all the teams entered trying to secure a place in the Grand Final at Rugby Park in July.

“With no football this summer it’s perfect for all football fans to get their football fix before the season starts up again.”

The Platinum Events working group is made of Chamber staff and Board of Directors. Ayrshire Chamber Events Co-ordinator Yvonne Munro, said: “It has been a great start to our Platinum series of events and we’re looking forward to seeing as many of our membership throughout the year at these events, as well as our usual calendar of events to benefit your business.

“We’ll be hosting a series of events including fun sporting competitions including football and golf and to social evenings like a Platinum Race Night and the Great Ayrshire Bake Off competition.”

To add a more competitive edge to the series of events, a league table has been started where the

THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS –

YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2017

CELEBRATE OUR SPECIAL YEAR winners will be presented with the Ayrshire Chamber Platinum Championship in Summer 2018.

Cecchini’s Ardrossan currently top the table after winning the Golf Day. Points will be up for grabs at the five-a-side football, Platinum Race Night, Great Ayrshire Bake Off and the It’s a Knockout final next summer.

Lorna added:“We’re excited with what we have

planned for the remainder of the year and into 2018 including a very special Audience with event with Sir Tom Hunter at Dumfries House in November.

“The challenge is on for your business to become the Ayrshire Chamber Platinum Champions.”

Full details on the Platinum events calendar will be revealed throughout the year on our website at ayrshire-chamber.org/events

PLATINUM JUBILEE

LEAGUE

TEAM

POINTS AWARDED

(1st place - 10 points, 2nd place - 9 points, 3rd place - 8 points etc. to 10th place - 1 point)

Golf

Football

Race event

Bake Off

Its-aknockout

TOTAL

Cecchinis

10

10

QTS Group Ltd

9

9

The NVT Group

8

8

The McKinstry Company

7

7

Duscacco/Watermiser

6

6

Mackay Corporate Insurance Brokers

5

5

William Duncan & Co

4

4

The McKinstry Practice Management Ladies

3

3

Hill House Quarry Group

2

2

Woodward AES Prestwick

1

1

The McKinstry Practice Management

1

1

CHAMBER NEWS

SAVE THE DATE FOR AYRSHIRE BUSINESS WEEK

Monday 9th to Friday 13th October throughout Ayrshire It’s back and better than ever before. Ayrshire Business Week returns this October with a programme packed with conferences, networking, training and rewards to benefit your business.

Running from Monday 9th to Friday 13th October, the annual five-day event covers all of Ayrshire and is open to all Ayrshire businesses and beyond.

Supported by Business Gateway, The Prince’s Trust and Scottish Development International, ABW 2017 has been revamped to be more industry specific.

YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2017

Ayrshire Chamber Chief Executive, Val Russell, said: “We have been listening to our membership and other Ayrshire businesses

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on what they are looking for from Business Week and we believe we have delivered a programme that reflects those wishes.

“We’re pleased to have introduced an International Trade specific event which reflects the growing amount of Ayrshire companies producing goods required across the globe.”

Business Gateway will launch Business Week in the stunning surroundings of Dumfries House with The Business Fairground event on Monday morning followed by The Prince’s Trust event in the afternoon.

‘Connect Ayrshire’ the B2B Conference remains on a Tuesday at the Park Hotel, Kilmarnock, but has been shortened to 9am to 1pm now and will be followed by an ‘Ayrshire Talks’ lunch. Tick Talk networking has been replaced by the popular Connect networking.

Glasgow Chamber will join up with Ayrshire colleagues at the Women Mean Business lunch on the Wednesday at Seamill Hydro with speaker Gillian Docherty of the Data Lab. The area’s top young apprentices compete for the Modern Apprentice Challenge which will now

take place on the Thursday and the Ayrshire Business Awards will now round off the week on Friday 13th October at Ayr Racecourse where Colin McArdle will reveal this year’s winners.

Val added: “I am looking forward to attending a great programme of events which will be of benefit to businesses in Ayrshire.”

Full details of Ayrshire Business Week will be revealed over the coming weeks and a full preview will be included in the Autumn edition of Your Business out in September.

Has your business had success this year worth shouting about? Then the Ayrshire Business Awards 2017 are open to applications and organisers want to hear from the best the region has to offer.

Businesses have until Wednesday 12th July to submit their applications for one of the 13 categories before we reveal the winners in October during Ayrshire Business Week.

This year, the judges are looking forward to finding more inspiring examples of Ayrshire’s vibrant business community illustrating the wealth of talent and enterprise in the region and will include two brand new categories – Growth Business of the Year and Business in the Community Award.

Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce Chief Executive, Val Russell, said:“The Ayrshire Business Awards are all about the best of the best in Ayrshire.

“They have continued to go from strength to strength and that is down to high level and quality of applications we receive each year. The judging panel have historically always had an incredibly tough job picking the winner and I expect the same this year.

“We have altered the categories slightly for this year’s Awards to allow even more organisations the opportunity to apply.”

Val added:“This year we have introduced two brand new categories which we believe makes the Ayrshire Business Awards even more accessible to organisations.

“We aware that so many businesses in Ayrshire do great work in their local community and the Business in the Community Award goes some way to recognising that.

“And there are a number of businesses who could certainly be in the running for the Growth Business of the Year Award for their success in the last 12 months so I look forward to seeing who will enter that category.”

This year’s winners will be announced at the Awards night, part of Ayrshire

Business Week, on Friday 13th October at Ayr Racecourse and will be hosted by Colin McArdle and entertainment from the returning Edward Reid.

The Munro Partnership have returned as Principal Sponsor after the success of last year’s night. Managing Director, David Hughes, said:“Munro Partnership, as part of 1825 Financial Planning, are delighted to be the principal sponsor once again for the Ayrshire Business Awards 2017. Last year’s event was a fantastic evening and I would encourage all types of business to enter this year, the benefits for your business, your colleagues and your customers will follow.”

Details on how to apply can be found at ayrshire-chamber.org/awards The 2017 Categories are: • Developing Ayrshire Young Workforce Award – sponsored by Munro Partnership • Modern Apprentice of the Year Award – sponsored by GSK • Growth Business of the Year Award – sponsored by South Ayrshire Council • Ayrshire Food & Drink Award - sponsored by East Ayrshire Council • Independent Retailer of the Year Award – sponsored by Ayrshire Post, The Irvine Herald and Kilwinning Chronicle and the Kilmarnock Standard • Excellence in Customer Service Award – sponsored by Seamill Hydro • Family Business Award - sponsored by North Ayrshire Council • Start-up Business of the Year Award - sponsored by Business Gateway • People Development Award - sponsored by Ministry of Defence – Defence Relationship Management • Business in the Community Awards - sponsored by Rivergate Shopping Centre • Ayrshire’s Best Business (0-10 employees) - sponsored by UK Steel Enterprise Ltd • Ayrshire’s Best Business (11-50 employees) - The McKinstry Company • Ayrshire’s Best Business (51 employees or more) – Westfield Health • Chamber Champion Award sponsored by Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce

WE WOULD LIKE TO THANK THE FOLLOWING CATEGORY SPONSORS

YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2017

AYRSHIRE BUSINESS AWARDS OPEN FOR APPLICATIONS

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MEMBER NEWS

DIZZYFISH… DOING IT DIFFERENTLY SINCE ‘97 One of Ayrshire Chamber’s newest members, Dizzyfish, have prided themselves on their innovative approach to audio visual technology.

The small team led by Dave Wilson have bags of enthusiasm they bring to each project whether working with small or large clients.

Dave explains: “Clients love what we do and how we

do it – we focus on customer experience and outcomes that meet expectations all of the time, guaranteed.

“When you think Dizzyfish, don’t think ‘tradesmen’ but instead think intuitive experts that listen to your wishes and understand them. With us you get the full package, even supplying electricians, decorators and aerial installation experts if

you need them.”

The Kilmarnock-based business have worked with

leading audio company Sonos for over 10 years and are chief AV contractor for the Cala West Thornton Hall development in South Lanarkshire as well as providing their expertise for the INTU shopping Centres, which includes Braehead Shopping Centre.

CUMNOCK FIRM'S CREATIVE APPROACH IS PATENTLY OBVIOUS either environmentally or cost effectively to allow access to the silt.

Cumnock business KCP Environmental Ltd is celebrating the granting of a British Patent for their unique fluid transfer system.

Wendy continued: “In addition, the downtime of managing larger volumes of water/silty water would also have added significant costs to the project.

YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2017

The granting of the patent gives the company exclusive rights to this technology for a period of twenty years.

The new fluid transport system was originally developed by KCP to solve a tricky problem for a client and has since been used on a number of occasions on other contracts.

KCP's managing director Wendy Pring CEng MICE said: “We are delighted to have been granted the patent for our fluid transfer system.

At KCP we take pride in our blue sky thinking and our determination to find the very best solution for each client's needs and this patent vindicates that ethos of innovation.”

The system was initially developed

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"We have since adapted and improved this fluid transfer system to allow for emulsification of material and can work with both compressed air and liquid depending upon the applications."

WENDY PRING, KCP MANAGING DIRECTOR

to allow removal of heavy compacted silts at vertical depths of around 7580m, with a liquid head of 60m above the basal silt deposits.

As the liquid level was part of a historic hydraulic containment system this water level could not be removed

She added: “We are reviewing some further research and development opportunities that will allow us to understand the limitations to the dimensions and further material specific applications.

“If anyone is interested or finding out more or has an application they believe this could work on please send us some details and we will be in touch!”

CHAMBER NEWS

AYRSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE CELEBRATES LIVING WAGE COMMITMENT The Living Wage Foundation is pleased to announce that Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce has been officially accredited as a Living Wage employer.

of £8.45 - significantly higher than the national minimum wage of £6.95 and the new minimum wage premium for over 25s of £7.20 per hour introduced this April.

Employers choose to pay the Living Wage on a voluntary basis, and while Ayrshire Chamber has continually paid its staff above the national minimum wage, it has now been recognised signing up to the Living Wage.

Living Wage Foundation Director, Katherine Chapman said: “We are delighted to welcome Ayrshire Chamber to the Living Wage movement as an accredited employer.

The Living Wage is an hourly rate set independently and updated annually. The Living Wage is calculated according to the basic cost of living using the ‘Minimum Income Standard’ for the UK. Decisions about what to include in this standard are set by the public; it is a social consensus about what people need to make ends meet.

Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce Chief Executive, Val Russell, said: “We were happy to make this commitment to paying our staff the Living Wage and join the many other businesses in Ayrshire to pay this improved

rate. We have continued to pay our staff above the national average “We believe this pledge recognises our staff’s hard work and demonstrates a sign of best practice, which we would encourage other businesses in Ayrshire to follow.”

The Living Wage commitment will see everyone working at Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce, regardless of whether they are permanent employees or third-party contractors; receive a minimum hourly wage

“The best employers are voluntarily signing up to pay the Living Wage now. The Living Wage is a robust calculation that reflects the real cost of living, rewarding a hard day’s work with a fair day’s pay.

“We have accredited nearly 3,000 leading employers, including Ayrshire Chamber, ranging from independent printers, bookshops and breweries, to well-known companies such as Nationwide, Aviva and SSE. These businesses recognise that clinging to the National Living Wage is not good for business.

Customers expect better than that."

AYRSHIRE CHAMBER RAISE OVER £8000 FOR LOCAL CHARITY Ayrshire Chamber handed over cheques worth £8,900 to four local charities after their membership raised the amount at the organisation Platinum Anniversary Dinner.

A cheque for £2,225 was handed to Hansel, The Lauren Currie Foundation, Seascape and Centrestage Communities recently.

Chamber Chief Executive, Val Russell, paid tribute to the guest who attended the Platinum Dinner for raising the fantastic amount.

She said:“I’m delighted to be handing over four cheques to these four local charities who all do great work in the community.

“It was a great total raised by guests of our

Platinum Dinner in March and we thank them for their generous donations on the night. We also thank all members who generously donated prizes."”

Representatives from each Charity visited the Chamber office to collect their cheque last month.

Ayrshire Chamber is now looking for raffle prize donations for the Ayrshire Business Awards night to raise even more money for local charities. If you have a prize that can be donated please contact Laura Mills at Entourage UK laura@entourageuk.com

YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2017

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Christmas with bells on.

One in ten go free, exclusively for Ayrshire Chamber members.

Christmas Disco Nights.

Christmas Band Nights.

Looking for all the latest chart hits plus more?

Prefer the sounds of a live band playing some

Then choose our disco party night, complete

classic party tracks? Then come along to our

with DJ, on Friday the 8th and Friday 15th of

Saturday night celebrations on the 9th and

December 2017, priced at ÂŁ50.00 per person.

16th of December, priced at ÂŁ65.00 per person.

A three course meal, additional entertainment

A three course meal, additional entertainment

and return transport* is also included.

and return transport* is also included.

To book or for more information, call 01655 334 088 or visit trumpturnberry.com/ayrshire-chamber *Subject to location. Visit website for more information. trumpturnberry.com

MEMBER NEWS

11 YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2017

AYR’S FUTURE IS TO RETURN TO THE PAST

What was once the thriving retail centre of Ayr now acts a sad reminder of the town’s bristling past. Woolworths, What Everyone Wants and Sports Division were just some of the big name stores that called the ‘bottom end’ of Ayr High Street home. These stores all have their own story why they no longer remain, however with no alternatives lined up to take their place and they remained empty.

The redevelopment will open up the River Ayr to the town for the first time in generations providing the backdrop for a planned multi use public space. Added with commercial, cultural, leisure, community, hotel and residential buildings, it will breathe new life into the area.

Split into four phases, the current demolition project marks phase one.

The remaining phases will be private sector led.

David Bell, Managing Director of Ayr Renaissance, explained: “The top end of the High Street is catered for retailers, so we are looking at changing the usage of the bottom end by attracting businesses in.

“South Ayrshire Council has already committed to moving into the area

ge Street New Brid

Led by the Ayr Renaissance Group, demolition has begun, expected to be complete by November this year at the latest, of the 1.2 acre Riverside site to bring the area back to life.

Old Bridge Street

That started the demise of this once busy stretch of the High Street to what it is today. But changes are happening with work is already underway to transform the area.

et

High Stre

Council Offices

Commercial

Hotel

Cafe

Residential

Active Council Use

Flexible Public Use

Internal through-route with managed public access

0 1

5

10m

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and will be bringing with them over 300 staff.”

The economic ripple effect of having that level of footfall coming into the area is hoped will attract others to follow suit.

And while work moves along at pace there, it has also been progressing in the former Clydesdale Bank building where it is hoped it will be ready to open in October this year.

Located at the junction of Newmarket Street and High Street, the Category B listed building will transformed into a market space on the ground floor for Ayrshire’s food and drink producers. Further redevelopment of the building will allow tenants to take occupation of the upper floors in the first quarter of 2018.

David added: “We’re on schedule to open the new space in October and we’re at the stage where we will be looking to hear from food and drink producers in the area who would be interested in getting involved in the marketplace.”

CHAMBER NEWS

THE BOARD HITS THE ROAD NEXT UK GOVERNMENT MUST ACT TO OPEN UP OPPORTUNITY FOR BUSINESS Scottish Chambers of Commerce has called on the incoming Government to reduce key taxes to ease the burden of business costs and promote investment and growth.

Scottish Chambers of Commerce has called for the new administration’s first Budget to take decisive action to reduce key taxes to ease the burden of business costs and promote investment and growth.

Liz Cameron, Chief Executive of Scottish Chambers of Commerce, said: “With Scottish businesses facing the prospect of rising inflation and weak consumer demand, the threats to our economic growth, which lags behind that of the UK as a whole, are readily apparent.

“One of the current challenges many businesses are facing is that of rising costs through higher prices and through government legislation on pensions, the National Living Wage and the Apprenticeship Levy. By tackling some of businesses’ fixed costs, this could help to free up valuable resources for business investment and job creation.

YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2017

“That is why we believe that the UK Government must target reductions in business rates, rather than Corporation Tax, in order to produce the biggest boost to the largest number of businesses.

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“At a national level, a temporary reduction in the rate of VAT, last implemented in 2008-09, may also be a useful tool to tackle rising costs, whilst at the same time encouraging a boost in consumer demand, which has been the major driver of growth in the Scottish economy. In addition, the permanent reduction in VAT to 5% for tourism and hospitality activities would bring the UK into line with the vast majority of other European nations and deliver a timely boost in competitiveness to one of our most important and iconic sectors.

As part of our commitment to be more visible as a Chamber we are taking our Board of Directors meetings to venues across Ayrshire.

The most recent meeting was held in Ayrshire College’s breath taking Kilmarnock campus. It’s genuinely stunning and there were more than a few jealous mutterings comparing college experiences in past years. Personal envy aside, it’s wonderful to have such state of the art training facilities in Ayrshire.

A recent Board “Ideation” session further encouraged all attending to constantly challenge the status quo and really think about how Ayrshire Chamber can best deliver business benefits in a rapidly changing world.

Business benefits / Digital Disruption Networking, flexible benefits packages, and providing low-cost consultancy changing the facet of every aspect business around digital disruption made for lively debate. Technological advancements are changing how business is done and it can be hard for SMEs to keep up with the pace. That’s where Ayrshire Chamber and its circle of members can help.

In fact, finding ways to facilitate members providing help and support to

other members was a really hot topic of debate. Remember, this is a partnership organisation and if you have ideas / suggestions on how your local Chamber can better support business within the Ayrshire economy, we’d be glad to hear them.

For starters, if your business is in need of a supplier or service provider, why not make Ayrshire Chamber the first place you call? We’ll be happy to refer you to relevant member companies, some of whom offer preferential rates to other members.

Platinum celebrations Since networking is a key part of Ayrshire Chamber’s role and not everything should be about the mechanics of business, check out the additional, special activities planned as part of our 70th birthday “Platinum” celebrations.

There’s something for everyone; from golf to footie; an audience with Sir Tom Hunter and even a local bakeoff, so come along and meet other businesses and potential contacts. There’s a competitive element too so whether your motivation is team-building, local publicity or just beating the competition, check out what’s available at ayrshirechamber.org

MEMBER NEWS

MICROTECH CELEBRATE 30 YEARS WITH NEW ACQUISITION

It’s been 30 years since Chris McMail established Microtech Support who provide customised IT and communications support solutions to over 1,200 sites across the UK.

Today, Microtech has grown to include four additional businesses; Microtech Digital, Microtech Business Intelligence, Telehealth Solutions and the newly acquired Microtech ENS. What was once a traditional IT company supporting businesses across Ayrshire, has developed into a multidisciplined business employing over 80 members of staff across three offices; Kilmarnock, Stevenston and Pontefract.

At their 30th anniversary celebration at Ayrshire College, Group Managing Director, Chris recalled that he struggled to find a bank manager who would loan him £100 to start up the company when he was a mere 21 years old. ‘I tried more than 20 banks from Ardrossan to Ayr and was rejected by every one of them. Thankfully one eventually believed in me and Microtech was started in my home town of Ardrossan.’

Through the rest of the 80’s and 90’s Microtech continued to grow slowly supporting companies with all their I.T. needs. 2004 was one of the biggest turning points for the company when

they were awarded a contract to provide every GP practice in Scotland with document scanning and workflow solutions. 13 years later, Microtech still support these practices and more than 20,000 of their users.

In 2015, the Microtech Group was formed when Chris strengthened the company portfolio with the acquisition of failing digital marketing agency Paligap Brands and e-health specialists Telehealth Solutions.

Paligap Brands rebranded as Microtech Digital is now a profitable digital marketing agency delivering ambitious and creative solutions from website design and development and marketing strategy to brand development and social media management.

Microtech, who had partnered with Telehealth solutions 2010, acquired the company in 2015. Telehealth Solutions, who use technology to manage patients with long term conditions, has since been turned into a market leading eHealth business which has gained approval from the Care Quality Commission.

April 2017 saw the acquisition of Egton Network Services (ENS) from Egton Medical Information Systems.

ENS who have an annual turnover of circa £2m, provide flexible network solutions, infrastructure design and implementation, combined with hardware provision. The new arm of the Microtech Group, Microtech Enterprise Network Services (Microtech ENS) will allow the company to build on their strategy of delivering a number of private cloud and hosted services to their customers.

Chris believes the new acquisition strengthens the company’s position as they work towards achieving their aim of £10m turnover by 2018. Chris said ‘It’s been a very exciting so year for us, we’ve celebrated 30 years in business, were finalists in the Ayrshire Business Excellence Awards, acquired a new business, and we have also just become ISO 9001 accredited. We are one of just 10% of companies in the UK who have achieved the 2015 standard and I’m very proud of how hard the team are working to ensure that we are delivering the best possible service to our customers.’

YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2017

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MEMBER NEWS

DRIVING HANSEL’S BUSINESS FORWARD Hansel’s Supported Business Laundry Service has unveiled its new laundry van which will help lighten the load delivering Laundry Services throughout the whole of Ayrshire.

The Laundry, which provides employment to people living with long term heath conditions and disabilities, offers a full range of commercial services to community households as well as larger organisations including hotels and nursing homes.

Guests were invited to an informal reception to celebrate the arrival of the new van which was generously supported by Johnny Wallace from Ayrshire Signs and Graphics.

Carol Montgomery, Operations Manager, Hansel, said, “We are looking to expand our laundry services and the van is a necessity to ensure we continue to deliver a first class service to our many customers located throughout Ayrshire.

“We’ve just started a pick-up service from our gift shop, Hi Street, located in Prestwick Main Street which is proving very popular.

Many of the Laundry staff team are supported through Hansel’s Employability

YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2017

TPS WELDTECH, BUILDING AND INVESTING FOR THE FUTURE

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As senior members hang up their work boots, TPS Weldtech have shown their commitment to ensuring the new generation of engineers have the skills to carry on delivering high standards of service that the company has been recognised for since 1971.

This year, Calum Cameron has passed his apprenticeship to become an Electrical Maintenance Engineer and Scott Havlin who is a fully experienced engineer and completed further training on Lincoln Services equipment to ensure the best quality of service is given.

Calum said: “My four year apprenticeship has given me skills and practice to turn me into the engineer I am today, ready to face any

task thrown at me and I have TPS to thank for that.”

And Scott added: “This further training has allowed me to expand my knowledge and given me further skills for fixing a variety of equipment.”

TPS Weldtech are delighted to invest, train and guide the young developing workforce to support the local community and the industry as a whole.

Service Manager Scott McDade explained: “We believe that the root of the business comes from investing in your staff and are committed to supporting our new generation of engineers for the future growth of the industry.”

Programmes which aims to empower and enable people, through skills development and confidence building to move onto open employment where possible.

MEMBER NEWS

LAUNCH REINVENTS THE (BRAND) WHEEL

Historically, a company’s value was in tangible assets such as property, stock, machinery or land. Nowadays, brands are the most valuable assets many companies possess.

If you want to build a successful and sustainable brand, you have to start with the story. That means creating a complete picture of the facts and feelings that frame your uniqueness.

Brand storytelling isn’t a new concept. However, with the explosive growth of media channels, the opportunities to tell your story makes it a strategic priority.

The most recognised model to craft your brand story is the Brand Wheel. Although a powerful tool, its complex jargon and complicated processes left people in a spin. But thanks to Launch, the Brand Wheel has gone through a revolution.

Stephen Cosh, Director at Launch, said: “The best brands are built on great stories. If you don’t have a story, you are just a commodity.

“A brand story isn’t just a catchy advertising slogan to attract attention

for a week or two. Your 4 BUSIN story is the ESS foundation of your brand and a platform for future growth.

PARTNE R

DISCOVER YOUR BRAND’S ROADMAP. FLIP TO THE BACK COVER FOR MORE INFO...

“By streamlining the stages and stripping out the ‘marketing speak’, we’ve reinvented the Brand Wheel.

It’s now an effective, easy to use tool that enables brands to tell their story.

Already our clients are experiencing the benefits.”

Lee Steward, Principal Designer at CDM Scotland, said: “We found Launch’s Brand Wheel session very helpful in defining our company’s offering. It helped us to identify the various services we deliver, how our clients view these services and what they think of CDM Scotland as a whole.”

Dr Caroline Vance, Owner at Engage, said: "Delighted with the outcome of a Brand Wheel session with the Launch team - their expertise in distilling the essence of our brand and the messaging to support it was impressive.”

GO ON THEN. THERE’S NOTHING TO SEE HERE!

CHAMBER NEWS AYRSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE STORY PART TWO

FROM SOCIALISING TO ECONOMIC ISSUES...AYRSHIRE CONTINUES ITS JOURNEY THROUGH THE DECADES

Part two of our lookback over the history of Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce reaches the swinging sixties and the difficult seventies.

The Sixties began with the most important of issues for Ayr Chamber of Commerce - should women be allowed to attend the first cocktail party? Common sense prevailed and women were allowed to attend cocktail parties.

YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2017

What a sociable bunch. But perhaps too sociable?

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Ayr board member Harald Tetley sparked outrage when dared to suggest the Chamber was inactive and ‘nothing more than a luncheon club.’ He became President two years later! In 1964, Kilmarnock changed its name to Ayrshire Chamber of Industries to reflect the widening membership. It sparked a period of intense rivalry with Ayr trying to lay claim to new companies drawn to Irvine as a New Town. There was talk of a single chamber organisation for the whole county but that didn’t happen for another 28 years.

The newly-named Ayrshire Chamber of Industries was unhappy, however, with Scotland’s two Television Broadcasting companies when a World Cup Qualifier between Italy and Scotland was televised live during working hours. It was decided that letters would be sent to the BBC and STV to combat the large absenteeism that had occurred and request that no future matches be played during working hours.

For what it’s worth, Scotland lost by three goal to nil.

Moving on, things were lively in Ayr and that was reflected in the chamber with a membership of 150. Parking was bad and wardens were introduced but should “on no account deter shoppers.

Sound familiar?

The first of the town centre’s modern buildings appeared in 1969 with the multi storey car park and the Caledonian Hotel.

But at the turn of the decade into the seventies the area was on the verge of an economic horror story. In 1970 there were 3700 jobless in the county and by 1979

there were 22,000.

Some 1500 jobs were lost at the steel mill in Glengarnock and Monsanto shutting down in Dundonald. A lack of supply of skilled workers - who were off in search of the fortunes to be made in the North Sea - and miners and transport strikes compounded things. Add in runaway inflation and heavy government regulation including the introduction of VAT and, well, you see how bad things got at that time.

“Apart from the 1930’s,” said Derek Stratton, President of the Ayrshire Chamber in his 1974 address,” there has never been a more difficult time to carry on business.” Ayr increased subscriptions at decimalisation, for the first time in eight years, to £4 for individuals and £5 for firms.

Part three of our lookback takes in the economic recovery of the 1980s and talks of an Ayrshire and Ayr Chamber merger to show a united front in their support for Prestwick Airport.

CHAMBER NEWS

NEW CHINESE ALLIANCE OPENS UP NEW OPPORTUNITIES FOR AYRSHIRE COMPANIES Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce participated in one of the first network-wide overseas trade missions to China, led by a delegation of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce.

Chief Executive, Val Russell, joined senior representatives and business people from Aberdeen, Dundee & Angus, Edinburgh, Glasgow, and West Lothian to explore new trading opportunities and links with business, education and government organisations.

As part of the programme, Scottish Chambers of Commerce (SCC) announced the official opening of a new International Trade Office in the city of Yantai.

As part of the event, both parties signed a Memorandum of Understanding for trade engagement and partnership, designed to achieve an effective channel for exchange of business between Scotland and Yantai.

During the trade visit, Ayrshire Chamber participated in a series of productive meetings with senior business people, highly influential politicians including Vice Governor Wang Shujian, and local government officials as well as national ‘think tank’bodies in Beijing and Yantai and Jinan in the Shandong Province.

Val explained: “The Chinese economy continues to grow at a faster pace than western economies and the rate of growth within new cities such as Yantai and Jinan opens up the potential for Ayrshire businesses to promote and sell goods and services which Chinese businesses and consumers want and need. That demand, together with a more recent policy of ‘opening up’to new trading partners and overseas alliances by the Chinese, presents a myriad of opportunities for our local businesses to capitalise on.

VAL GETS ON HER BIKE TO SELL AYRSHIRE

“The aim of our mission was to strengthen relationships and increase engagement with existing and new contacts in sectors where there are direct B2B or knowledge-sharing opportunities for Scottish companies. Yantai is a city of 7 million and SCC’s base in Yantai will enable us to plan a comprehensive approach to exploiting the many opportunities in Yantai and further afield for our members and non-members.”

Shandong Province represents the third largest economy in China with a population of over 97 million and a GDP in excess of 6.3 trillion yuan (£0.7 trillion). It is China’s best wine growing region accounting for over 25% of all wine production. Yantai is the biggest trading port in North China and in 2016, the city imported over $19 billion (£14.7 billion) of goods and services.

The party also visited the city of Jinan, which is home to one of the first national high-tech business incubators and since its foundation in 2002, it has incubated more than 1,000 small and medium sized science and technology enterprises. It focuses on cultivating fast-growing sectors such as biomedicine, ecommerce, energy, environmental protection and new materials.

Key sectors for Ayrshire based companies to meet key economic needs in the Chinese target cities include: electronic information, pharmaceutical, bioscience, R & D, manufacturing, engineering and smart technologies, energy including upstream and downstream products and services, logistics, agriculture, food and drink and even football management.

The accelerated growth of consumers in Shandong province also opens opportunities in consumer goods, recreation and tourism services, financial and professional services and education.

Val added: “We will now undertake a deep dive of companies based in Ayrshire who have products, skills and expertise which have the potential to be exported to Shandong Province. Our aim is to add impetus to our local and wider Scottish economy by assisting companies who have not previously thought about exporting to grasp the potential that international trade offers.

“The new more open trading environment in fast growing cities such as Yantai, Jinan and the wider Shandong Province, together with the practical advice and direct B2B links that Ayrshire Chamber now has within this market, will facilitate more effective trading partnership opportunities for our local businesses and educational institutions.”

YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2017

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Big Blue Dog Rebrand and Relaunch.

Digital marketing agency Big Blue Dog have undergone a rebrand to realign their market position, with a new logo and refreshed website.

Based in Ayr, Big Blue Dog work with a mixture of small start-ups to national brands, with a focus on intelligent and creative design.

After the launch of their new brand and website, we asked Big Blue Dog to share their story…

As a design agency, we spend our days preaching the importance of your brand and your digital presence. There’s nothing more important than knowing who you are as a business and ensuring that your target audience understands and believes it.

so busy working away on our clients’ brands and websites that we neglected our own…

Over the last seven years we’ve really matured as a business with a tight knit team that work, laugh and play together. We’ve honed our processes, skills and completed some really great work. We know this because we live and breathe it everyday, however, we had forgotten to tell anyone about it. No wonder it’s a surprise when they meet us, as our brand and website hadn’t evolved with us and didn’t reflect who we are now.

We didn’t require a complete rebrand, but an evolution of our current identity and a brand new website was long overdue.

People often think a rebrand is as simple as a new logo. But that’s just a new logo. A When potential employees and clients meet with brand is the core of your business and what us, we’re typically greeted with a ‘Wow, I didn’t you stand for, a promise to your customers. expect to get this kind of studio in Ayr’. Now Yes, we have changed our logo too - we are we love Ayr for all it has to offer, but we pride designers after all! ourselves on offering a ‘city quality’ with the coastal lifestyle that Ayr offers. After the 100th The time was right for some introspection and time of hearing this comment, we thought to to hold a mirror up to ourselves. It was fun to ourselves ‘why are they so surprised?!’ practice what we preach and run our own internal branding workshop. We’re normally the ones We reviewed the journey our clients take to prising out why people do what they do, this time meeting us and realised our blunder… We’d been we had to dig deep and figure out our own.

Responsive website for an International Summer School

New brand and responsive website for Michael Laird Architects

Creating a bespoke wood carving for BurnsFest! 2017

With a clear and unified sense of why, we released our creative team on the new identity and website. It’s always a hard task to please a team of designers but we’re happy with the result. Our brand and website represents a new era for Big Blue Dog, but it doesn’t stop there.

As our company and individuals continue to evolve, our brand will continue to do so too.

So visit our new site to take a look for yourself.

Like what you see? Why not give us a call or pop in for a chat to see how we can help you fall in love with your brand (again).

bbdcreative.com 01292 280022

Creative at our core, intelligent in our design.

41 Beresford Terrace | Ayr KA7 2HD 01292 280022 | hello@bbdcreative.com | bbdcreative.com

MEMBER NEWS

BPO SETTLE IN NEW Our Business ARDROSSAN HOME

Making Your Business

THE AYRSHIRE COLLEGE FOUNDATION CAN HELP The Ayrshire College Foundation is offering its support to new educational and innovative projects in Ayrshire.

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4 BURS TNER INESS

Allied to the objectives of Ayrshire College, the Foundation provides financial support for Ayrshirebased projects that provide educational opportunities for all age groups.

So far we have upgraded the Student Services areas of two Ayrshire College campuses, and provided Newmilns Primary School with a Trim Trail - which is educational play and sports equipment that encourages the children’s active, social and imaginative development.

The Foundation is also supporting the Mission Discovery Ayrshire project for the second consecutive year. Mission Discovery is a weeklong educational programme developed by the International Space School Educational Trust and 200 Ayrshire secondary school pupils and college students will take part in June.

However this is just the start.

We would love to hear from any person or group requiring funding for a project that has an educational benefit for Ayrshire communities and employers.

YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2017

A new website (http://ayrshirecollegefoundation.weebly. com) has been created by Ayrshire College’s digital marketing Modern Apprentice, who is funded by the Foundation, which outlines how anyone with a great idea can apply for funding.

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So, do you need funding to support an event? Do you require new equipment for learning? Or even new facilities? If your project links with the College’s objectives then get in touch with the Ayrshire College Foundation at on 01563 523501 ext. 4047 or email enquiries@ayrshirecollegefoundation.org.uk.

Projects are considered on a quarterly basis but a quicker decision may be possible for time-sensitive projects. Please consult with staff at Ayrshire College and we can advise you on the best person to talk to about your project.

BPO Collections Ltd held their grand opening for their new premises in Ardrossan last month on what turned out to be a glorious spring evening to showcase the Ayrshire coast.

The company moved from Stevenston’s Grange Building to the new Quayside building at Ardrossan Marina to provide additional capacity and a fantastic working environment for their people.

Speaking about the move, Graham Rankin, Managing Director, said: “We are really excited about our move to Marina Quay. Our new premises provide a world class working environment for our staff, a dedicated training facility and what a location to show to both new and prospective clients. I would like to thank all our business partners who

have supported us thus far and look forward to their continued support.”

Guests who were piped into the event included Elma Murray, Chief Executive of North Ayrshire Council together with other advisors from North Ayrshire Council, clients, business partners and BPO staff.

Elma Murray, Chief Executive of North Ayrshire Council said: “I am delighted to celebrate the official opening of BPO’s new premises.

Through Team North Ayrshire we have been able to support the company in securing their long-term lease to move to Marina Quay in Ardrossan.”

The company was founded in 2006 with a workforce of nine staff and has grown over the years and now employ over 60 staff most of which reside in the three towns.

CHAMBER NEWS

MAXIMISE YOUR POTENTIAL WITH A MENTOR Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce offers the local business community a wide range of services to benefit their business and one if the most popular and beneficial is the Business Mentoring programme.

Delivered in partnership with Scottish Chambers of Commerce and Scottish Enterprise, the Business Mentoring idea is simple; it matches experienced mentors who come from all business areas and sectors with growing businesses.

is matched with a mentor that has the right skills and experience to add value to the business.

Rhona Brown, Business Mentoring Executive, explained: “Mentoring brings benefits to both parties involved. “We can put you in touch with experienced professionals who’ll offer support and someone to bounce ideas off.

By sharing the entrepreneurial experiences of mentors, this service gives the business the confidence to develop and grow, and opens up a great network of contacts that can open doors and inspire new thinking.

“Mentoring can give you the confidence to grow your business.

Mentors have acted as a sounding board which is a massive benefit when making tough decisions. The mentors can provide guidance and support but the answers lie with you as the business owners, the mentor is there to help you identify them.”

With a large and diverse pool of mentors across all sectors, the business

Recent businesses who took advantage of the programme said :

I would recommend mentoring to other businesses. Even now we discuss different ideas and my mentor still puts me in touch with his contacts. Mentoring can help business leaders that have more to offer but don’t know how to do it. For business owners to maximise their potential it’s essential they have confidence in themselves and a mentor can help them with that.

RHONA BROWN, BUSINESS MENTORING EXECUTIVE AT ACCI

My mentor was a perfect match for me. Their open-minded approach and general business style matched my personality to a tee which is why I couldn’t be more enthusiastic about the support. My mentor’s advice has been instrumental in my career progression.

YOU CAN FIND OUT MORE ABOUT BUSINESS MENTORING by contacting Rhona Brown at Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce on 01292 678666, via email at rbrown@ayrshire-chamber.org or at

ayrshire-chamber.org/supporting-business

YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2017

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MEMBER NEWS

TALKINGHEAD PARTNERSHIP REINFORCES ‘IT DOES WHAT IT SAYS ON THE TIN’ ...

We said we’d deliver and we continue to do just that! We continue to attract new customers based on our solid track record and reputation.

with modern digital practices and now feel better equipped to deal with the changes required and more confident in our future growth.”

Underpinning our success, are results and positive feedback received from our customers.

Jane Grant, MD, AMAS Scotland Ltd

Our uniqueness is we will only engage with you if we can guarantee to deliver.

“In the last Quarter, our Partnership with Talkingheads has hit new heights. Their approach is honest, realistic and results driven.

For more details contact us on 01292 388400 or email iain@thpartnership.co.uk

Gary Hughes, Managing Partner, Independent Estates “As a successful High Street business for the past 20 years, I was aware of the challenges and competition faced by estate agents in the digital era and wanted to position Independent Estates to take advantage of the opportunities presented.

plans for AMAS in 2017 and beyond.

AMAS has a trusted Partner in Talkingheads and is now in the best shape it has ever been.”

We set out to produce a robust business growth strategy within an aggressive timescale and with very specific deliverables. Not only did we achieve these, we surpassed even my expectations.

Talkingheads helped us understand the challenges and quickly presented us with their recommendations on positive change.

Having had our most successful ever Quarter, we are now on course for our best month ever.

Our number of new clients continues to grow with increasing revenues.

Their approach was straightforward, and made a great deal of sense. We’ve now implemented a sales & marketing strategy which is in line

Their insight and knowledge are second to none and I’m confident in the future growth

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MEMBER NEWS

MISSION DISCOVERY RETURNS TO AYRSHIRE

A week-long space school that gives Ayrshire youngsters the opportunity to work alongside NASA leaders will take place from 19-23 June at Ayrshire College’s Kilmarnock Campus.

The announcement that the Mission Discovery programme will return to Ayrshire this summer was made at a special launch event held at the campus by the Ayrshire College Foundation’s Chairperson Tracey Stark. The Foundation has agreed to provide most of the funding to hold the popular event for the second year.

Local aeronautical businesses NATS and the Glasgow Prestwick Spaceport have also agreed to sponsor the 2017 programme. The Ayr Rotary Club will sponsor Friday’s activities which involves S3 and S4 pupils coming along to a Mission Discovery taster event.

The Ayrshire College Foundation was set up to advance education by providing financial support for projects and activities carried out and supported

by Ayrshire College.

Ayrshire College hosted the educational programme last year at its Ayr Campus. This year, the event will be held at the college’s new campus in Kilmarnock that opened in October 2016.

The Mission Discovery programme was a major success when it came to Ayrshire for the first time last year.

200 selected secondary school pupils and college students took part across

the week, working in teams to propose viable experiments to take place in space. The winning idea - which looked at the speed of slime mould on different materials in space - is to be launched to the International Space Station this year.

The programme is delivered by a team of space experts at the International Space School Educational Trust (ISSET), and former NASA astronaut Michael Foale CBE will once again be involved with Mission Discovery Ayrshire 2017.

Fifty secondary school pupils from each of East Ayrshire, North Ayrshire and South Ayrshire, and 50 pupils from Ayrshire College, will be recruited for the space school and will work in teams to enhance their team building skills.

There will be an opportunity for the

general public to get involved in the week with a 'Meet the Astronaut' event scheduled to take place.

Ayrshire College Foundation Chairperson Tracey Stark said “We are delighted to announce the return of the Mission Discovery programme to Ayrshire.

“Last year’s event was hailed by ISSET’s Director as one of the best programmes they have ever done and we aim to eclipse that success this year.”

Heather Dunk, Principal of Ayrshire College, said “We are delighted to be hosting Mission Discovery for a second year. The programme had such a positive and lasting impact on everyone who was involved last year.

“I would like to thank the Ayrshire College Foundation, Glasgow Prestwick Spaceport, NATS and the Ayr Rotary Club for sponsoring Mission Discovery Ayrshire, which will raise the aspirations of young people by giving them the opportunity to work alongside NASA leaders.”

YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2017

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ST MATTHEW’S HAVE THE ‘PERSONALITY’ FOR ENTERPRISE AWARDS

YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2017

DYW Ayrshire recognise St Matthew’s Academy in Saltcoats for their innovative primary school test at Ayrshire’s Young Enterprise Company Awards.

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Saltcoats secondary school St Matthew’s Academy impressed the judges with the inventive primary school personality test.

Under the name UNIQUE pupils Bethany Alexander, Rebecca Black, Megan Copeland, Luke McGinley, Karah Murphy, Rachael Murphy, Alan Payne, Lauryn Reid, Alaska Scott and Jamie Wyllie, with the support of Mrs Tracy Allen and Mr Simon Gilbert, and Business Advisor Lynn Burns, were presented with their award by DYW Ayrshire Project Executive, Claire Baird.

Claire said: “Congratulations St Matthew’s Academy for a thoroughly innovative and engaging project. The pupils’ project was very impressive and they responded to each challenge really well.

“There was a very high level of entry for this year’s awards and it is very encouraging to see many young people in Ayrshire showing the required planning, communication, teamwork and drive required for the world of work.”

Elsewhere, a scarf business set up by students at Marr College was been named Ayrshire Company of the Year.

Graphic Outlook, which was established and operated by a team of senior pupils at the Troon school, was one of five companies competing in the Ayrshire finals of the Young Enterprise Awards, a prestigious annual

01292 678666

event which recognizes the entrepreneurship, business skills and teamwork of 16-18 year olds participating in the Young Enterprise Scotland Company Programme.

The Marr College team, which created a specially designed school scarf, also picked up awards for Best Marketing and Best Report, and were named runners up in the Best Trade Stand and Best Interview categories.

Irvine Royal Academy’s Cute as a Button collected four awards - Best Product/ Service, Best Managing Director, Best Trade Stand and Best Interview.

The Best Presentation award went to Alfa from Ayr’s Belmont Academy who were also named runners up in the Best Report Category, as well as coming second overall in the Company of the Year competition.

Held in April at Irvine’s Gailes Hotel, the Young Enterprise Scotland awards are the culmination of months of hard work, with

each team creating, financing, launching and operating their own business with the support of Link Teachers and volunteer business advisors. The finals saw each team present a written report, undertake an interview, give an on-stage presentation and create a trade stand, all judged by a panel of local business people.

Young Enterprise Scotland is a not for profit organisation and aims to provide the best business experiences to students, giving them opportunities to develop their full potential, build confidence, raise self-esteem and test out their business skills. Described as ‘the ultimate business experience for S5 and S6 pupils’, Young Enterprise Scotland’s Company Programme adds value to young people’s senior school experience with opportunities to develop skills in communications, problem solving, presentation skills, leadership skills, decision making, creative thinking and resilience.

INFO@DYWAYRSHIRE.COM

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INNOVATIVE ACTIVITIES

DYW Ayrshire, in partnership with The Prince's Trust, has funded a number of innovative activities that develop the employability skills of Ayrshire’s young people. The training element of a number of these activities are delivered by Ayrshire College.

This fund is open to secondary schools across Ayrshire and can be used for activities that will help to upskill young people and

RACHEL‘S STYLIN’ TIME

better prepare them for the world of work.

Claire Baird, DYW Ayrshire Project Executive, added: “These projects are aimed at enhancing pupil’s employability skills after education by providing vocational training and the appropriate communication skills.”

Projects recently funded through DYW Ayrshire Innovative Activity funding include coffee shops, Bike Cycling Repair shops, Nail bars and Rural Skills projects.

MEET THE LATEST DYW RECRUIT… STEVEN Say hello to the newest member of our team Steven McBlain who will be looking after South and North Ayrshire school work experience placements.

Girvan Academy pupil Rachel, completed her work placement with the Rainbow Room International in Ayr. The DYW Ayrshire team bumped into Rachel while they were out filming at the salon which you can watch on our Youtube Page.

Steven enjoys playing football and follows the Scottish National team home and away.

He also likes to raise money for charity.

If you have any enquiries regarding work experience placements in North and South Ayrshire then please email Steven on smcblain@ayrshire-chamber.org

BLOG.DYWAYRSHIRE.COM

FOCUSING ON LEARNING ABILITY NOT DISABILITY This year, Learning Disability Week took place from 15th to 21st May and was the perfect opportunity for us to highlight success stories of local young people with additional support needs who have entered into the world of work.

The Developing the Workforce Ayrshire group

MURRIE ROBERTSON

Murrie explained: "When I went for my interview the interviewer did ask me what my additional support need was and I said there will be certain jobs that I will find harder to pick up on and it will take more time for me to get these clear in my head. I do think he had the perfect right to ask me as some people think this is an easy stay within this industry when his job but actually someone could come into the centre, drown and lose their life so it is a really apprenticeship sadly came to an serious job so he had every right to ask me end.

After applying for the role of Centre Attendant about my additional support need."

Murrie has now been working in his new within The Galleon Centre in Kilmarnock, Murrie role within The Galleon Centre for a number of was delighted to be offered the job and was more than happy to disclose information on his months and is looking forward to his future in the Sport and Leisure industry. additional support needs to his new employer.

EUAN WATSON

Being Autistic, Euan was aware that employers may be wary of recruiting someone with his additional support need but People Manager, Claire Gormanley, explained:

YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2017

Murrie left school knowing he wished to pursue a career within the Sports and Leisure industry and was delighted when he was successful in gaining an Active Schools Modern Apprenticeship with East Ayrshire Council Vibrant Communities. After gaining excellent experience within this industry, winning the Apprentice of the Year Level 2 Award and securing a lifeguard qualification under his belt Murrie was keen to

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visited a number of different youngsters throughout Ayrshire to hear about their journey into employment and asked why they felt more employers should recruit young people with additional support needs.

Here’s their stories

17-year-old St Matthews Academy pupil Euan Watson was keen to gain experience in the world of work during his time at school and was delighted when Tesco in Saltcoats offered him a flexible work placement two days a week.

"This has been a different work placement for us but it has really developed our team skills.

Euan has been fantastic, he has fitted right in to the store team, he has been very helpful and customers have got to know him as well as colleagues and I would definitely look at doing it again in the future."

As Euan continues with his studies at school and work placement within Tesco he is enjoying meeting new people and is looking forward to a bright future ahead of him.

It’s clear to see that giving people with additional support needs opportunities within the world of work has many benefits to them as individuals and to the employers. Having that little bit of encouragement and

01292 678666

INFO@DYWAYRSHIRE.COM

PARK SCHOOL

a number of weeks and is keen to follow in the footsteps of his brother and become a Chef once he leaves school.

Park school pupils Brad and Heather have been enjoying carrying out work experience placements within a number of Ayrshire businesses. 16-yearold Brad Taylor has been carrying out a work experience placement within The Park Hotel in Kilmarnock every Sunday for

17-year-old Heather also carried out a work placement within The Park Hotel and is now delighted to have secured a part-time job working within Tesco in Galston. Working nine hours every Saturday, Heather is responsible for stacking the shelves, dressing the aisles and ensuring all areas of the store are clean and tidy and has said both her experiences

STORM IN A TEACUP Suffering from a hearing impairment, 16-year-old Cale Slimmon has had to face a number of challenges when gaining opportunities within the world of work. Recently, he was given the chance to undertake work experience within Storm in a Teacup part of the Kilmarnock

WG13

WG13 in Kilmarnock is a cafe and venue with a twist! As well as offering good food and space for entertaining or training facilities they are also an arm of the Council of Voluntary Organisations (East Ayrshire) which is a registered Scottish Charity. The reason for doing this is to allow people with additional support needs to gain work experience, industry standard qualifications and training.

Heritage Trust.

Cale explained that during his work experience within the Storm in a Teacup cafe he learned how to use the coffee machine, met new people and carried out daily tasks within the cafe including cleaning the tables, helping Alan McLelland started working within WG13 as a volunteer and after being Barista trained he was delighted when he was given the opportunity to gain a part time job within the cafe as a waiter. Having worked there now for 10 months, Alan's confidence has grown and the skills he learned throughout his time at WG13 have enabled him to enter into the world of work within the hospitality industry.

Job Coach at WG13 Eddie Walsh explained: "I think experiencing the world of work has a lot of benefits for the people who volunteer within WG13. It raises their self-esteem, builds their confidence as within the business we have

within The Park Hotel and Tesco have helped to grow her confidence.

the customers and cash handling.

With regards to the skills and qualities these young people like Cale bring to the organisation, Volunteering Co-ordinator Sue Cartlidge told us: "The pupils have developed a BSL learning programme for our volunteers and have also taught the volunteers about different ways of communicating. It's a joy to have people with additional support needs, they bring qualities that you would not otherwise have. They are hardworking, always willing to learn and it is definitely an advantage to the business."

a supported learning environment so they get encouragement and support from the members of staff including management and front of house."

support from local employers can go a long way to growing and developing the skills these young people need to go on to have successful futures.

BLOG.DYWAYRSHIRE.COM

YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2017

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BUILDING A FUTURE AT ST WINNING’S

Martin & Son Builders recently supported St Winning’s Primary School in Kilwinning throughout their World of Work focus week.

Owner, Martin Sneddon visited St Winning’s each day so that all five classes had the same insight of what a career in the building trade would consist of. This is something which Martin is really passionate about and he was delighted to also have the support of local building contractors and merchants who were happy to accompany Martin and provide some merchandise.

Interestingly, Martin is profoundly deaf after losing his hearing five years ago and believes it

was important for pupils to see that this hasn’t stopped him from running a successful business.

As a small family company, Martin hopes he can encourage others to also give back to the local should have the opportunity to go into a school, community. particularly if they want their business to move He highlighted: “I think every small business forward, our children are the future and I can see the enthusiasm and the future in the children.”

Pupils were able to take part in a series of interactive tasks which included using laser levels, sizing, measuring angles and working out thermal heat loss. Martin was impressed by how well they did on the tasks and how technically savvy young children are. This was a fantastic experience for pupils who thoroughly enjoyed the visit.

FRANKIE & BENNY’S PIZZA & PASTA EXTRAVAGANZA

YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2017

Pupils from thirteen secondary schools in Ayrshire have been working hard over recent months to create new culinary delights for the Frankie & Benny’s chain.

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The Ayr, Irvine and Kilmarnock restaurants visited schools to initially launch the challenge of creating a brand new pizza or pasta dish. The young people then formed teams within their classes with the best ideas being put forward to a regional semi-final. Here pupils had to pitch their dish to the judging panel who had creativity at the top of their criteria list.

Each of the restaurants then hosted a regional final where each school was represented by their winning semi-final team. The competition was fierce and groups worked hard with the help of restaurant staff to create their dish. Judges were then treated to an Italian feast as they deliberated on a restaurant winner.

2017 Frankie & Benny’s Winners: East Ayrshire: St Joseph’s Academy with Rabbie’s Pasta North Ayrshire: St Matthew’s Academy with The Scot’s Pizza South Ayrshire: Prestwick Academy with Penne Pork Pasta

The winning team will see their dish being sold this summer at the restaurant within their local authority.

Pupils also received a trophy to be displayed in their school and some very generous vouchers to treat their family and friends to a trip to Frankie & Benny’s.

Chris Mooney, Kilmarnock Restaurant Manager said,“At Frankie & Benny’s Kilmarnock we were delighted to be involved in the challenge. Visiting schools, meeting children and teachers and providing them with something fun and educational to get involved in was a fantastic experience.

We were very impressed at the dishes the pupils came up with and, in particular, their confidence when presenting the ideas the area semi-final.”

Mrs McErlean, Home Economics Teacher at St Joseph’s Academy added,“I loved the whole concept of the competition. Especially how fairly it was conducted, so that one team from each school was picked to go forward to the final. I thought that the pupils got a great experience both from improving their presentation skills to creating a dish that they would like to eat. At the final we were looked after wonderfully and the experience my team got was brilliant.”

BLOG.DYWAYRSHIRE.COM

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KILMAURS PRIMARY’S WORLD OF WORK WEEK!

ETHICS FOR MEDICS As part of the Religious Moral and Philosophical Studies (RMPS) National 5 Qualification, pupils are asked to consider a range of ethical issues facing our society. In order to add more intellectual weight to these discussions, the Chamber arranged for a number of medical experts to visit and discuss these issues in more detail..

The Acting Principle Teacher of RMPS, Kathryn Anslow, prepared a number of questions with her class beforehand, to ensure all of the topics were covered. The panel was made of a consultant in Sexual and Reproductive Health, a consultant in Palliative Care, and the quality improvement lead and clinical governance at NHS Ayrshire and Arran.

The three panellists covered a range of topics from the curriculum, and fielded a series of excellent and searching questions by the pupils.

Whilst many of the issues raised were complex and sensitive, both the panellists and pupils treated them with due respect, and all viewpoints were heard.

The event was hailed as a success by Kathryn, who said: “I thought the event was fantastic. It was great for pupils to get a real life perspective of the topics and issues they have learned about and been discussing in class.

YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2017

Ambassador), and Sophie from Vibrant Communities. They learned about the different jobs that each company can offer, along with what skills, qualities, and qualifications are needed. Following the careers fayre, the older pupils then presented their business pitches to a panel of ‘Dragons’, who questioned the teams about their product and marketing, before declaring an overall winner.

The P4 pupils participated in team-building tasks set by staff from Vibrant Communities, A great example of how Primary to show how important working together schools have really embraced World can be. The pupils worked outside then of Work, Kilmaurs Primary hosted moved indoors to build shelters in the a number of employers across the classroom. These activities showed the school, including team-building pupils how communication, team work, activities and a ‘Dragons’ Den’. and working to a deadline are important The week was launched at an assembly where the skills to develop for their futures, not just in pupils were asked to think about what employers employment. are looking for in young people.

After the event, teacher Dawn Dickens, who Throughout the week, the school had a number had worked tirelessly throughout the week, of events to raise pupils’awareness of the myriad said: “Today was a big success and very careers options open to them, culminating in a valuable for our young people.” careers fayre on Friday 10th March.

Having such a great experience at an early The P5, P6, and P7 pupils spoke to representatives age will hopefully help to shape these from VG Energy, Tesco, Ayrshire College young people into the adults they aspire to Sports & Fitness, Billy Bowie Tankers, Aecom be, and each to reach the goals they set for Civil Engineering, Merck, Lesley (our STEM themselves.

“The timing of the event was good too as it served as a bit of revision before pupils went on study leave. The conference also helped pupils to link careers and employability to our subject.

“Personally, I found the responses of those on the panel to be very interesting and enlightening.”

MEMBER NEWS

APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR 2017

IRVINE INCORPORATED TRADES – AYRSHIRE AWARD The organisers of an apprentice awards scheme in Ayrshire have pulled out all the stops to make this year’s event the biggest and best ever.

Irvine Incorporated Trades, as the only organisation of its kind in Ayrshire, have extended the reach of their annual Apprentice of the Year awards event.

Employees of companies from all over Ayrshire can now be entered for a chance of the top prize of £1,000 and an impressive trophy.

And – although the boundaries have widened – the longestablished competition will still have Irvine at its heart.

The gala dinner will be in Irvine at the new Portal Centre next to the beautifully-restored Townhouse in High Street.

The entertainer on the night will be Irvine’s own singersongwriter Eddi Reader who has topped both the album and singles chart in a long music career.

Also, among the judges will be Gio Benedetti, the Italian entrepreneur who built up a dry cleaning empire after working in his uncle’s ice cream café in Irvine.

football referee Willie Young and the speaker will be the candid and controversial advocate Donald Findlay QC. Other Apprentice of the Year judges are David Watt, Chief Executive of the Institute of Directors, Scotland; Heather Dunk, Principal of Ayrshire Colleges; and Sir Iain McMillan, Chairman of Strathclyde Business School Advisory Board and former CBI Scotland Director.

At the gala dinner guests will begin their evening with bubbly and canapes followed by an excellent four-course meal with wine.

The cost for a table of ten is £1,000 and this will include the cost of all drinks. Places can also be booked individually.

Company nominations for the Irvine Incorporated Trades’ Apprentice of the Year award may be combined with the purchase of tickets for the dinner on Friday, September 22. Any apprentice working or living in Ayrshire can be entered. Full terms and conditions can be obtained from Brian Donohoe at donohoebrianh@gmail.com or by telephone on 01294 311113.

Sponsors who can provide donations for the auction and the prize draw should also contact Brian.

Apprentice of the year 2017.qxp_Apprentice of the year 2017 17/05/2017 09:10 Page 1

All proceeds will be presented to charities in Ayrshire.

IRVINE INCORPORATED TRADES – AYRSHIRE AWARD

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YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2017

THE ORGANISERS OF AN APPRENTICE AWARDS SCHEME IN AYRSHIRE HAVE PULLED OUT ALL THE STOPS TO MAKE THIS YEAR’S EVENT THE BIGGEST AND BEST EVER.

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Employees of companies from all over Ayrshire can now be entered for a chance of the top prize of £1,000 and an impressive trophy.

Company nominations for the Irvine Incorporated Trades’ Apprentice of the Year award may be combined with the purchase of tickets for the award dinner at the Portal, in Irvine, on Friday, September 22.

Full terms and conditions can be obtained from Brian Donohoe at donohoebrianh@gmail.com or by calling 01294 311113.

ORPORATED T INC RA E D IN

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APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR 2017

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Compere for the evening will be former Class One Scottish

ANY APPRENTICE WORKING OR LIVING IN AYRSHIRE CAN BE ENTERED.

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MEMBER NEWS

Cargo Handling and Logistics specialist JST Services Ltd have appointed Neil Stoddart as General Manager.

Neil brings 25 years’experience in the timber harvesting and marketing sector, where duties included multi modal supply chain management of round timber from the western seaboard of Scotland to a range of European industrial end users.

Chairman John Scott noted “This change will underpin a management structure at JST that will provide both a positive platform for delivery of our growing work programs and visibility on the longevity of the business.”

JST operate a range of plant from their base in Ayr Scotland, including a modern timber haulage fleet, high specification heavy haulage units and unique Liebherr Port Handling equipment. In addition they operate a 2000t GDW vessel in the Irish Sea (round timber) and 2 floating pier terminals in Argyll, located at Lochgilphead and on the Island of Mull.

AYR CENTRAL CONTINUES ITS GROWTH

Ayr Central has continued to buck the trend and secured another High Street retailer to open up in the heart of the town’s retail hub.

Leading health food retailer, Holland & Barrett opened in May in Ayr Central.

Commenting on the new store, Ayr Central’s Centre Manager, George Reader said: “We are really excited to unveil the new Holland and Barrett store in Ayr Central.

“Bringing Holland & Barrett to Ayr Central takes the centre to 99% let and reinforces its reputation as Ayr’s prime retail location. Ayr Central enjoys very loyal customers, and a high volume of tourists and students, and has become a key requirement for brands seeking opportunities in the south west of Scotland.”

YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2017

NEW MANAGEMENT AT JST SERVICES

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MEMBER NEWS

CREATING CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE TOGETHER When Thistle Help realised that they wanted to develop their customer experience delivery and consistency of service, they looked no further than booking one of Ayrshire Chamber’s Business Boost Training Events.

They noticed that Lyndsey Phillips of Stimuli Evolve was delivering a workshop on Turning Complaints into Compliments.

George, their MD, and Siobhan, their manager, went along and had enlightening and fun morning. So much so, they booked Lyndsey to deliver bespoke training workshops to the team.

Although Thistle Help already delivers

a high level of customer service and like any organisation who are continually growing and improving, they don’t rest on their laurels. They constantly look for ways to improve and deliver even higher customer experience for both new and existing services.

With support from the development team at North Ayrshire Council, several workshops later and the Thistle Help team are thinking positively and looking forward to an exciting future with an

enlightened and motivated company.

George Ruddick, MD, said: “Undertaking the workshops with Lyndsey proved to be a worthwhile experience as all staff engaged well and opened up during the training. It did reveal that although we are delivering a great customer experience, undoubtedly there is always room for improvement. I would strongly recommend using Lyndsey if this is an area any business needs to address.”

A HEALTHY WORKFORCE MEANS A HEALTHY BUSINESS

What’s your company’s number one asset? Your staff, right?

YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2017

You probably maintain your premises, equipment and systems regularly, but do you make sure that your workforce is functioning at its best?

Their health and wellbeing should be part of your business strategy, so encouraging them to take a proactive approach to looking after themselves should be a priority.

With NHS services struggling to cope with demand at a GP level and for non-emergency hospital treatment, health insurance lets your workforce access cashback for routine healthcare costs and private surgery.

Westfield Health is the BCC’s preferred

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supplier of employee health cover, and we’ve worked together to develop the Chamber Primary Health Plan to take care of your employees’ everyday health needs. By providing this cover, you can help keep your staff at their fit and healthy best allowing them to claim money back, up to set limits for things like sight tests and glasses, dental bills and therapy treatments, and give them access to a range of valuable health and wellbeing services.

This is complemented by Hospital Treatment Insurance for when hospital treatment is needed. This provides the peace of mind that if non-urgent medical treatment or surgery is ever required, policyholders can bypass potentially lengthy NHS waiting lists

PARTNE 4 BUSI R NESS

by opting to be treated privately at a time and place that is convenient for them.

A new member of the Westfield Health team We’re pleased to introduce Andrew Perry, our new Business Development Consultant for Scotland. Andrew is keen to establish links with existing Westfield Health customers and to meet new people who are interested in looking after the health of their employees. If you want to get in touch with Andrew, call him on 07710848557 or email andrew.perry@westfieldhealth.com.

ATOM HIT 10 YEARS OLD ON MARCH THIS YEAR Tom McCrorie had an idea in 2007.

He wanted to start his own design company.

He explained: “I had 23 years’ experience working with some fantastic creative directors and designers within the industry and in March 2007, just before the birth of my daughter, I decided to go it alone. Nothing ventured, nothing gained as they say.

“Time to start my own design business I said, I have enough experience right? So I did.

“With the luxury of having a retained client under my belt straight way, I was

lucky enough to hit the ground running.

Things were getting off to a good start.

“The business rapidly grew with new clients coming on board and the luxury of being able to choose who I worked with was tremendous.

“In late 2008, I employed my first member of staff and things could not have been better. Move eight years on and working from my home office took its toll but it was time to move into a new space.

“So, two years ago the opportunity came up to rent an amazing open plan and bright office space with enough

room for eight desks and a further two rooms for 12 people and a breakout space for chilling and relaxing, the timing could not have been better. After all, that side of the business was growing and I thought it was time to pitch it myself at a different level “Who knows what the future holds, but I am in the new coworking space just right across from the Ayrshire Chamber. Sharespace sub-leases desk space to other like-minded business owners in the Ayrshire area who have the same ethos as I do. Take a look at www.share-space.co.uk and ‘just keep on swimming.”

GREEN HOME MAKE PLEDGE TO EXCELLENCE Green Home Systems Limited of Dundonald is pleased to announce its membership of the National Insulation Association (NIA) which represents the insulation industry in the UK. Its members include manufacturers, system designers and installers of insulation solutions for homes and businesses.

With almost half of all homes in the UK lacking adequate insulation, potentially losing around 60% of their heat through uninsulated walls and loft space alone, the NIA is keen to raise awareness of the huge savings householders can make by simply improving their home insulation.

Steven Easton, Managing Director of Green Home Systems commented: “We are delighted to join the NIA. It’s a well-known fact that the public perceive a business to be more trustworthy and reliable if it belongs to an established trade body, so by joining the NIA, Green Home Systems is responding to that need.

“Not only can they be confident that we provide a top quality service, they are safe in the knowledge that Green Home Systems is a reputable company backed by the insulation industry’s leading trade association.”

CHAMBER EVENTS ROUND UP

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

PLATINUM GOLF CHALLENGE SUCCESS Ayrshire Chamber’s Platinum Golf Challenge saw a welcome return of the organisation’s golf networking event as it continued a year of celebrations to mark the organisation’s 70th anniversary.

Over 40 golfers turned out at Dundonald Links to take part in the Stableford competition which was won by Cecchini’s Restaurant Group.

MACKAY CORPORATE INSURANCE

Events coordinator Yvonne Munro said: “It was a great day helped by some tremendous weather for our golfers. The course was in fantastic shape as it prepares to host both the Men’s and Women’s Scottish Open later this summer.

THE NVT GROUP

“The competition was extremely close and I congratulate Cecchini’s on their victory. The Platinum series now moves on to football with the Platinum Fives at the Power League, Kilmarnock.

MCKINSTRY PRACTICE MANAGEMENT

“I would like to thank our sponsors for the golf – PGA European Tour, Dundonald Links and to those who donated prizes to the winners including SimpsInns, Ayrshire Amer Sports and the Lochside House Hotel.”

MCKINSTRY PRACTICE MANAGEMENT

EVENTS DIARY DATES Providing you the opportunity to meet contact, expand your knowledge and grow your business AN AUDIENCE WITH KEN SYMON, EDITOR OF BUSINESS INSIDER 7th June 12.00-2.00pm Venue: The Gailes Hotel, Irvine includes 2 course lunch

YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2017

£30 BUSINESS BOOSTS PROTECTION FROM EMPLOYMENT TRIBUNALS 9th June 8.30-11.00am Venue: Ayrshire Chamber Board Room Facilitated by AC White

£40 BUSINESS BOOSTS - GO VIRAL FOR FREE 23rd June 8.30-11.00am Venue: Ayrshire Chamber Board Room Facilitated by Big Blue Dog

£40

Why not join us on tour, definitely one not to be missed Venue: Culzean Castle, Trump Turnberry, Glenapp Castle, The Whisky Experience

£48 PLATINUM CUP 5 A SIDE FOOTBALL CHALLENGE 27th June 4.00-7.00pm Winning 4 teams will be invited back to play at the Platinum Finals @ Rugby Park on Thursday 20th July from 5pm Venue: Power League Kilmarnock

TICK TALK @ THE HORIZON HOTEL, AYR 17th August 5.30-7.30pm Venue: Horizon Hotel, Ayr

£15 BUSINESS BOOSTS BSL FOR BUSINESS 24th August 8.30-11.00am Venue: Ayrshire Chamber Board Room Facilitated by Sign and Be Heard

£40

£75

£40 CONNECT AFTER HOURS 15th June 5.30-6.30pm Venue: The Coo Shed, Corton Farm Alloway

FREE

BUSINESS BOOSTS- RISK ASSESSMENTS FOR FUNDING 21st June 8.30-11.00am Venue: Ayrshire Chamber Board Room Facilitated by IM Training

5H TASTING TOUR – AT AYRSHIRE’S FINEST 23rd June 11.00 – 7.00pm Looking for a unique opportunity to network, entertain customers or just learn more about some of the wonders of South Ayrshire?

CONNECT 27th July 10.00-11.30am Venue: The Mill House, Stewarton

FREE

CONNECT 25th August 10.00-11.30am Venue: Ayr Rugby Football Club, Millbrae, Alloway

FREE

BUSINESS BOOSTS - ESSENTIAL CYBER SECURITY FOR YOUR BUSINESS 7th September 8.30-11.00am Venue: Ayrshire Chamber Board Room Facilitated by Cyber Aggress

£40 CONNECT 8th September 10.00-11.30am Venue: The Harbour Arts Centre, Irvine

FREE PLATINUM LUNCH WITH KEYNOTE SPEAKER AND AGM 14th September 12.00-2.30pm Venue: The Carlton Hotel, Lunch £18 AGM FREE BEHIND THE SCENES @ FMC BIOPOLYMER UK LTD, GIRVAN 20th September 11.00- 2.30pm Venue: FMC BioPolymer Girvan

£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.

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

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MEMBW ERS

AVQ MANAGEMENT Kilmarnock Mr Mark Rooney 07909 402203 www.avqmanagement.co.uk

BREEZE CONNECTION LTD Irvine Miss Emma Frew 07495620777 www.breezeconnection.co.uk

KEENAN OF AYR COACH TRAVEL Ayr Miss Sandra Keenan www.keenancoaches.co.uk

AYR RENAISSANCE LLP Ayr Mr David Bell 01292 612477 ayrren.com

CUMNOCK TRYST (THE) Largs Mr John Bickley 07812180775 www.thecumnocktryst.com

MINUTEMAN PRESS KILMARNOCK Kilmarnock Mr Gary McSkimming 01563 550 750 www.kilmarnock. minutemanpress.com

STONEFIELD ESTATE AGENTS Ayr Mr Richard Thomson 01292 501777 www.stonefieldayr.com

BEING THERE MEDIA Ochiltree Mr Kenneth Caldwell 07723338099 www.beingtheremedia.com

ECCO HEALTHCARE LTD Drongan Mr Christopher Livingstone 07446064862 www.eccohealthcare.co.uk

PODIATRY SOLUTIONS WITH FLYING FEET Ayr Miss Margaret Grace 07900948814

TEN30 FASHION LTD Ayr Mr Alan Moore 07788119374 Ten30.co.uk

BELKEN ROSS LTD Prestwick Mrs Isobel McEwan 07802 201405 www.thethinkteam.com

EVENTS ALIVE Ayr Mr Edd Holloway 07718043650 www.eventsalive.co.uk

POPPY'S LUXURY INTERIOR & GIFTS Ayr Mr Jordan Kerr 01292 737228

BIG POND DIGITAL Ayr Mr Ari Pournaras 07999499096 www.bigponddigital.co.uk

JOHN H MCNAE LTD Tarbolton Mr Neil McNae 07989 554456 www.mcnae.net

SERENITY NLP HYPNOTHERAPY & COACHING Ayr Mr Kevin Mullin 07788119374 www.serenitynlp.com

ST MEDIA / AYRSHIRE WEDDING DIRECTORY Kilmarnock Mr Tom Rogers 01563 501391 www.ayrshireweddingdirectory.com

THRIFTY CAR AND VAN RENTAL Exeter Mr Colin Roxburgh 01329 471 111 www.thrifty.co.uk TOT STOP AYR LTD Ayr Miss Lauren McKinstry 07535445495

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.

YOUR BUSINESS | SUMMER 2017

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