Your Business Winter 2016

business your

the magazine of Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce and Industry

STUNNING NEW HOME FOR AYRSHIRE COLLEGE See page 8

winter 2016 £2

HOW WE HELPED PETER

to realise his fresh brand vision Following a complete brand refresh, Urquhart Opticians is well placed for future expansion.

Owners Peter Telfer and Alistair Duff had a clear vision for the 100 year old business: to create a first class optical experience in Kilmarnock, Prestwick, Glasgow and Troon.

Part of their business transformation involved a thorough critique of the company’s retail operations by the Business Gateway Ayrshire team.

We also helped secure funding for store improvements and advised on the company’s marketing plans.

Business Gateway’s critique of my retail operation has proved invaluable.

Peter Telfer, Owner, Urquhart Opticians

How we helped: • 1 to 1 business support • Specialist retail expertise • Sources of funding • Networking opportunities

To grow your business, call North Ayrshire 01294 507 857, East Ayrshire 01563 898 433, South Ayrshire 01292 427 552, or visit bgateway.com/ayrshire

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

Stuart Cresswell

Chief Executive

Valerie Russell

Development Manager

Helen McBride

MAGAZINE Editorial Content: acameron@ayrshire-chamber.org

Ad Sales:

Design & Typesetting:

nsykes@ayrshire-chamber.org

Adver tisingworks Scotland Ltd

www.advertisingworks.co.uk

Print & Distribution: www.brown-bros.com

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

It doesn’t seem that long ago since I wrote my first column for 2016 and now here am I again now penning the last one of the year. Where has the time gone?

LOBBYING & REPRESENTATION It’s been a year that has brought further uncertainty for organisations across Ayrshire. However, a great deal of Ayrshire businesses constantly adapt to this changing climate and grow, which is very heartening to see.

We still have more to come around the Brexit outcome and we wait to see whether this decision by the British public will be good for the country’s economy.

We should, hopefully, have a much clearer indication in spring next year when the Government will trigger Article 50.

The Scottish Government elections in May returned a minority SNP Government and the possibility of a second Independence referendum. This further uncertainty is damaging to business’ longterm planning.

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To allow us to continue to represent your business at Westminster and Holyrood, I would urge to complete the surveys sent to you

EVENTS

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VAL RUSSELL ACCI CHIEF EXECUTIVE

do certainly know how to celebrate here in Ayrshire.

EDUCATION The Developing the Young Workforce project, which Ayrshire Chamber has led, has now been working to support our young people for over a year and we’re delighted to see so many organisations getting involved this in this fantastic initiative. The DYW team work extremely hard to meet with employers, schools and pupils and have organised some excellent events which the young people have really taken too. You can read about Ayrshire’s Young Entrepreneurs on the education pages in the magazine.

We strongly believe in the importance of developing our youth and preparing them for the workplace.

TOURISM

Ayrshire Business Week again highlighted the diverse range of business here in the area and it was great to see so many of you throughout the week. There was a great atmosphere at Ayrshire On Show B2B conference at The Park Hotel, Kilmarnock which saw many of you networking and working on potential new business.

I recently took part in a Learn, Taste, Experience Iceland visit with a number of delegates from Ayrshire in October. There were many lessons to be learned from the tourism sector and I will be putting this forward at discussions on the future of partnership working to promote Ayrshire and Arran.

Congratulations to the winners of the Ayrshire Business Awards, a memorable night at Seamill Hydro in October. The image of a room full of people dancing on the chairs singing along to ‘That’s Amore’ will live long in the memory! We

Finally, it would be remiss of me not to mention the recent US election and Mr Trump’s success. He was a popular speaker at our Annual Dinner in March 2015 at Ayr Racecourse and has invested a lot money restoring an iconic Ayrshire hotel.

YOUR BUSINESS | WINTER 2016

CONTACTS

A CHALLENGING YEAR FOR BUSINESS

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CHAMBER NEWS

KAREN DUNBAR TO HOST PLATINUM DINNER After much whispering, Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce can announce the return of Karen Dunbar as she hosts our special Platinum Dinner.

After the huge success of her hosting the Ayrshire Business Awards in 2015, discussions took place immediately to secure Karen as host of a special night on the Chamber’s calendar.

2017 marks 70 years of Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce and Industry and so a special host was needed for the special night at Trump Turnberry on Friday 10th March.

Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce Chief Executive, Val Russell said: “Karen was a massive favourite after her performance at the Ayrshire Business Awards dinner in 2015. All the feedback we received was all the same…book her again!

“So we have and we’re delighted to announce she’ll be hosting our Platinum Dinner in March, which will be very special night in the Ayrshire business calendar.”

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This is a very special night at a special venue so please book your tickets early to avoid missing out on this most esteemed night in the Ayrshire business calendar.

YOUR BUSINESS | WINTER 2016

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The Platinum Dinner with principal sponsor First Independent Finance and secondary sponsor Barclays Bank, will commemorate 70 years of the organisation as well as recognising the diverse range of businesses in Ayrshire.

Managing Director Allan Ross of First Independent Finance explained: “The Chamber’s Platinum Dinner is an excellent platform to reward and celebrate our achievements with leading businesses from the area and First Independent Finance are delighted to play our part in supporting this annual event as principal sponsors of the 2017 dinner.

“The event is a key date in the business calendar and recognises the hard work and dedication of so many passionate and committed people within the Ayrshire Business Community, one I very proudly like to call home.

“Within Ayrshire we have an abundance of successful family businesses, all of which have been established and nurtured in a very talented county.

“We recognise the significant contribution these businesses make to the wealth, health and happiness of the wider community - it’s what makes

Ayrshire the perfect place to live and work.”

tickets early to avoid missing out on this

Val added: “Throughout our 70 years Ayrshire Chamber has supported and encouraged business in the area and our membership grown to become the ultimate business network in Ayrshire.

business calendar.”

“From sole traders to multinational organisations our membership has covered Ayrshire’s wide array of businesses for 70 years and will continue to do so for the next 70 and beyond.

“This is a very special night at a special venue so please book your

most esteemed night in the Ayrshire Ayrshire Chamber’s Platinum Anniversary takes place on Friday 10th March and you can book your ticket by contacting Ayrshire Chamber on 01292 678 666. Tickets cost £85 per person including VAT. Trump Turnberry are also offering a special room rate for guests who wish to stay of £140 bed and breakfast and £165 for a double room.

Ayrshire Chamber will be revealing more details on this prestigious night early in the New Year.

CHAMBER NEWS

LEARN, TASTE, EXPERIENCE ICELAND

YOUR BUSINESS | WINTER 2016

THE TEAM MET WITH HRAFNKELL GUÐNASON, PROJECT MANAGER, AND COLLEAGUE FROM UNIVERSITY CENTER OF SOUTH ICELAND DAGNÝ H. JÓHANNSDÓTTIR, MANAGING DIRECTOR, VISIT SOUTH ICELAND & BJÖRG ÁRNADÓTTIR OF MIDGARD ADVENTURE.

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A team of Ayrshire food and tourism businesses recently took part in a fact finding mission in Iceland to discover the success of the country’s rise as a top tourism destination.

Renowned for its Spas, Geysirs, dramatic scenery and view Northern Lights, tourism has played a substantial role in the country’s economy. But in 2010, air travel was grounded over certain regions of Europe due to an ash cloud from an erupting Volcano in Southern Iceland. Aeroplanes were stranded initially for six days in April that year causing chaos for many travellers.

However, there were bigger fears amongst those in Iceland who believed this would stop visitors from around the world holidaying in the country.

The travelling group, including Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce Chief Executive, Val Russell, discovered this was a turning point for the country’s tourism industry and have used it as springboard to bigger and better things with one major tool. Social Media.

Val explained: “Instead of this being a huge negative to the country, instead they took it as a massive opportunity to bring the country’s tourism related businesses together to work with each other.

“It is one of the world’s most ‘connected’ communities and has been taken complete advantage of. All businesses have their own social media presence, particularly Facebook, and they actively encourage customers to post and rate their visit to their attraction.

“This single approach has brought some remarkable results.”

The total contribution of Travel & Tourism to Iceland’s GDP was 27.2% in 2015, and is forecast to rise by 1.7% in 2016, and to rise by 3.1% pa to 28.5% of GDP in 2026.

The group was made of 20 delegates who were split into working groups and given a series of case studies to research on topics including Hospitality Service; Business Innovation & Development; and, The Use of Digital Marketing and Social Media.

Neil McAleese, Economic Development, East Ayrshire Council, “Our trip, which covered South Iceland and Reykjavik, was thoroughly enjoyable and the businesses and professionals who attended all learned from the experience and took away ideas which they will hopefully utilise in their own businesses.”

Finally, Toni Dawson, Geraldo’s, added: “There were lessons to be learned every day on the benefits of working together; so much so that I’ve already collaborated with three of the people

on the trip on an upcoming event. Even the case study work built into each day provided a valuable insight into other people’s perspective and made me start the ball rolling on some changes to my own business.”

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ACCOLADE FOR MAYBOLE SCHOOL AT 2016 CHAMBER BUSINESS AWARDS Carrick Academy, from Maybole, has been crowned one of the winners in the Scottish heats of the Chamber Business Awards 2016.

Now in their 13th year, the Awards are a highlight of the business calendar, and they pay tribute to the key role that local businesses play in driving the UK economy.

Francis Martin, President of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) said: “Businesses are the driving force of the UK economy. Their creativity, hard work and acumen are what makes us one of the world’s strongest and most resilient economies, and they deserve recognition for the crucial role that they play.

“Our judging teams across the country are consistently impressed by the number of high calibre entrants in the awards, and this year’s competitors are no different.

“The Chamber Business Awards are the perfect opportunity for us to celebrate our business community’s achievements, to take stock of the

outstanding performances of UK businesses over the past year, and to encourage and inspire others to follow in their footsteps.”

Carrick Academy is aspirational for all students and has embraced Developing Scotland’s Young Workforce and by encouraging their young people to develop their employability skills within the senior phase of education.

Pupils opting for an SQA Personal Development award with Work Experience are given the opportunity to incorporate workplace-based learning within their curriculum. This extended placement, hosted by local employers, offers them the opportunity to develop a range of employability skills while gaining an extra qualification.

Claire Baird, Developing the Young Workforce Ayrshire Project Executive, added: “Congratulations Carrick Academy on receiving this deserved recognition.

The school actively seek to better their pupils’ employment prospects with this programme and winning the regional heat acknowledges this.”

Making Your Business

Making Your Business Our

Our Business

Business

COLLEGE’S STUNNING NEW HOME OPENS

Kilmarnock now has a new landmark with the opening of Ayrshire College’s fantastic new campus in Hill Street which opened to students and staff on 24 October 2016.

Feedback from students, staff members and visitors over the past few weeks has been overwhelmingly positive.

The £53m campus has been praised for its glass exterior, spacious layout and its flexible, open learning areas, to name just a few improvements on the previous campus on Holehouse Road.

As well as benefiting our students, the whole 4 BUSIN community can take ESS advantage of the new building.

Incredible facilities will soon become available for members of the public. Anyone can book into our restaurant 'Salt & Barrel', our hair and beauty salon 'You', or take advantage of our sporting facilities: the gym, dance studio and football pitch.

YOUR BUSINESS | WINTER 2016

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All of the equipment throughout the campus is brand new, and there are break out areas across every floor for students to study or relax in.

As this building is for everyone in Ayrshire, we are inviting the community into the campus on Saturday 19 November between 11am and 2pm.

During the Community Open Day, people will be able to experience cooking demonstrations and hair and beauty treatments, and there will be face painting, arts and crafts, and CoderDojo coding sessions for children.

There will also be live music and sports activities on the day.

We would be thrilled to see as many Ayrshire

residents and employers as possible come along to check out our new Kilmarnock Campus on 19 November. We are sure you will be blown away by the incredible opportunities that will be afforded to our students through this new building.

You can watch a short film documenting the first day at the new Kilmarnock Campus at our Youtube page, where you will get to hear from the very first student to have walked through the doors!

We invite businesses to contact us to hire our facilities for events. Initial enquiries should be sent to wendy.mcfarland@ayrshire.ac.uk There are many exciting opportunities for sponsorship of areas or events within this campus. If you would like a tour, please get in touch with our sponsorship team on sponsorship@ayrshire.ac.uk We are delighted to finally be in our new campus, two years after work began. We hope you enjoy this breathtaking new building as much as we do.

Web Development

HAPPY 20TH BIRTHDAY ADWORKS

Your Business - Adworks has a longstanding relationship with the Ayrshire Chamber with fond memories of designing the Golden Jubilee edition of “Your Business” back in 1997 and are delighted to still be working in partnership with the chamber team to bring you this latest edition.

Media Planning

Trusted as one of Scotland’s leading and most experienced full service marketing and design agencies.

1996 Adworks is born

The company has evolved significantly over the last 20 years – starting out as a 1-man, 1-woman band in 1996. Today, the company employs a team of 10, providing a wealth of talent and expertise under the one roof at their premises in Newmarket Street in Ayr.

Daniel commented: “Thanks to everyone who came along to help Adworks celebrate this significant milestone. We pride ourselves on building long-term partnerships with our clients and wanted to throw a party to thank everyone – customers and staff alike – for their loyalty over our 20 years in business. Believe it or not, we still have clients who have been with us from day 1, despite no tie in contracts, which is pretty unique in our industry.”

Graphic Design

Since 1996

October 2016 marked Adworks 20th anniversary in business and as a “thank you” to clients past and present, Managing Director, Daniel Knox, organised a birthday bash at the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum.

Although Adworks have clients in every corner of the UK, as a local, family-owned business, they ensure as much economic benefit from their trading operations stays within the local economy, where possible, by using a local supply chain. Even the birthday cake was kept in the ‘family’ being designed by start-up business “Meg Makes”, by Megan Bell, daughter of Adworks Media Buyer, Kate Steven.

Digital Marketing

1998

Google first launched

2001

Windows XP launched

2004 Facebook goes live

2005 Youtube launched

2006

2010

Twitter launched

Pinterest launched

2015

Google Alphabet launched

01292 885777 advertisingworks.co.uk

BUSINESS NEWS

SCOTTISH BUSINESS NETWORK FORGES NEW ALLIANCE WITH LONDON STOCK EXCHANGE

YOUR BUSINESS | WINTER 2016

A delegation of 50 business influencers from the Scottish Chambers of Commerce Network and Scottish & London-based businesses, successfully opened the markets at the globally renowned financial centre of excellence, the London Stock Exchange in September.

This formed part of a series of high level business engagements organised by the Scottish Chambers of Commerce Network including a Business Reception at Westminster, meetings with influential MPs and a B2B Connections event at Dover House.

Speaking after the Market Opening, Nora Senior, Chair, Scottish Chambers of Commerce, said: “Our focus is to grow our economy by investing, innovating and internationalising. This new alliance is one way to enable Scottish businesses to access new funding streams and tap into collaborative

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business networks to drive the expansion and growth of SMEs. “As Scotland’s largest private sector membership network, we believe that SMEs are, and will continue to be, the driving force behind a strong Scottish economy. These SMEs are often leading innovation and new technologies, which in turn brings highly skilled jobs into our economy, which fuels growth of our communities and cities. That’s why this alliance is important and we look forward to working with the London Stock Exchange in the future.”

Donald Brydon, Chairman, London Stock Exchange Group, said: “It is a pleasure to welcome the Scottish Chambers of Commerce and so many excellent Scottish businesses to London Stock Exchange.

These businesses are driving innovation, job creation and economic prosperity up

and down the country. Angus Robertson, SNP Westminster Group Leader added: “I’m delighted to be here this morning, and I thank the Scottish Chambers of Commerce for the invitation to join in opening the Market.

“Access to capital markets and, in particular the London Stock Exchange, is essential for the growth and success of Scotland’s businesses."

MEMBER NEWS

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ENERGY-EFFICIENCY START-UP TREBLES TURNOVER TO £1M

Dundonald-based energy efficiency company, Green Home Systems Limited, has increased turnover above £1 million in just its second year of trading.

Green Home Systems was founded by brothers, Peter and Steven Easton, in 2014 with a £1,000 South Ayrshire Council Ambition start-up grant.

The company specialises in energy efficiency measures such as insulation and heating systems, and employed 22 staff by the close of its last financial year.

The growth had been driven by an expansion in contracts in the Energy Company Obligation (ECO) programme which obliges large utility companies to install free energy efficiency measures to householders.

The company also grew revenues from homeowners and private landlords

looking to upgrade their properties.

Managing Director, Steven Easton, said, “We are delighted with these results. When we started the business two years ago we set out a clear path for growth, and despite considerable volatility in the energy efficiency market we have been able to bring this strategy to fruition. We are committed to further expansion and expect turnover to at least double again in our third year of trading.”

Green Home Systems has installed energy efficiency measures in over 2,500 households throughout Scotland that has saved over 100,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide being emitted into the atmosphere.

Mr Easton said, “We are very proud of being able to lift many householders out of fuel poverty by renovating poorly insulated homes and upgrading

CELEBRATING THE CREAM OF AYRSHIRE

Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce was pleased to be part of the West FM Cream of Ayrshire Awards night. We sponsored the Young Entrepreneur Award and our President Stuart Cresswell presented winner Gillian Greig of Greig Residential with her trophy. A great night at Seamill Hydro!

heating systems. Energy efficiency is a growing problem that must be addressed if we are to tackle both fuel poverty and climate change. Our sector also provides significant employment opportunities and we implore both UK and Scottish governments to increase their support of the energy efficiency industry.”

Green Home Systems was recognised at this year’s Scottish Energy Efficiency & Retrofit Awards with the company being placed third nationally in the Eco Champion category.

“

We are very proud of being able to lift many householders out of fuel poverty...

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WE ARE INSURANCE BROKERS. AND OUR INDEPENDENCE IS AS FIERCE TODAY AS IT WAS WHEN WE FIRST OPENED OUR DOORS IN 1977.

And now, we’re award winning.

This October we were privileged to take home Broker Network’s ‘Growth Strategy of the Year’ award at the 2016 National Conference, held at London’s Old Billingsgate.

based on building lasting relationships with clients, and these awards have emphasised the strengths of local businesses in a national arena.”

Celebrating Murphy Insurance’s recent development, this nomination and award provides further confirmation that we have a bright future ahead of us.

Building our business on the solid foundations of successful, long-term client relationships, Murphy Insurance’s first and foremost alliance is with the clients we work hard to protect.

On being recognised by the national network for independent brokers, Director Tom Yorke said: “We pride ourselves on having a hands-on approach to business,

Prioritising impeccable service above all else, joint Directors Tom Yorke and John McQuaid continue to build on the business values that were set out

by Brian Murphy nearly 40 years ago.

Call us on 01292 269 505 or fill out a contact form at murphyinsurance.co.uk

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WE PRIDE OURSELVES ON HAVING A HANDS-ON APPROACH TO BUSINESS, BASED ON BUILDING LASTING RELATIONSHIPS WITH CLIENTS, AND THESE AWARDS HAVE EMPHASISED THE STRENGTHS OF LOCAL BUSINESSES IN A NATIONAL ARENA.

A FREE INSURANCE HEALTH CHECK

BY BUSINESS SPECIALISTS Having worked with a diverse range of businesses, from charities to professional services, traditional industries to high-tech manufacturing, we want to make sure your insurance package is right for you – not ‘nearly right’ or ‘close enough’.

After all, this is your livelihood.

Start your conversation with Murphy Insurance today by booking a free insurance health check of your existing protection. Our review of your current policy will highlight any shortcomings which we believe may be detrimental to your current and future protection.

Providing an in-depth understanding of what your policy will and will not do in the reality of a claim means you will be better informed on where to spend your budget.

We are insurance brokers.

If our report comes back with the all clear, you still walk away with renewed confidence in your protection that comes from an expert second opinion at absolutely no cost.

MEMBER NEWS

DOUBLE CELEBRATION FOR EAST AYRSHIRE BUSINESSES The Ayrshire business community came together to celebrate the anniversary of two East Ayrshire organisations.

YOUR BUSINESS | WINTER 2016

TAXI FIRM’S UNDERDOG STORY

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“Our customer service approach is what sets us out differently from other taxi firms,” says Brian Galloway of Citadel Taxis, who have just celebrated their third year in business.

“Offering a professional service to our customers has allowed us to grow over these three years.”

Ayr-based Taxi firm Citadel Taxis began life with just two cars and today now boast 13 modern efficient vehicles and one London Hackney five seater cab.

Brain continued: “We started out with two cars and took just 20 calls in the first month but we’ve grown since and that’s down to a loyal customer base and them speaking highly of us. It show us we’re doing the job right.”

Brian along with business partners Graham Campbell, Tam Matheson and Sam Prow each have their share in the business and are among the 14 drivers in the company.

The four have been involved in the taxi business for longer than they care to remember but believe it should be done a certain way.

Brian said: “The way other firms ran their operation was one reason why we started up in the first place.

“We believe in offering our customers a professional service and being honest with them. If we say we’ll arrive in 10 minutes, we’ll arrive in 10 minutes. We won’t say 10 minutes then turn up after 20 or 30 minutes. If we know we won’t get a car there in 10 minutes we’ll be honest and say how long it will be.

“Our customers appreciate that honesty and it keeps them coming back. These last three years have been a real underdog story.”

2016 marks 50 years of trading for Dustacco Engineering Ltd and 45 years of trading for Watermiser Ltd. Both businesses are based in Newmilns, employing more than 70 people and turnover £6M+ annually.

Dustacco Engineering was established in 1966 to provide ventilation, dust control and air conditioning services, hence the name. The core service offering, which has evolved over the years, is mechanical design, manufacture and installation services for a range of pharmaceutical, utility and energy clients such as GSK, E.On, and Scottish Water.

Meanwhile Watermiser Ltd, established in 1971, is the only water cooling tower manufacturer in Scotland and supply a variety of industries across the UK, such as Diageo, Coca-Cola, Nestle and Heinz.

The event, at Franklin & Sloane in Kilmarnock on Friday 4 November, featured an exhibition of photos including the Watermiser Cooling Towers installed at the Palace of Westminster, together with a range of memorabilia.

Alison Somerville is the Managing Director of both businesses, having

taken over the reins from her late father and founding Managing Director Morris Somerville.

She said: “This was an opportunity to mark the occasion, acknowledge the success of both businesses over the years and to share the origins, history and evolution of both Dustacco and Watermiser with personnel, clients, suppliers and stakeholders. Most importantly, it was an opportunity to thank the people, old and new, who have worked hard and committed loyally to the culture and continuous improvement of the businesses. We really do have a close-knit, family orientated culture, with people very often going above and beyond the call of duty for the company and for each other. We are very lucky.”

The event was also attended by company shareholders Marie Somerville and Laura Somerville, Provost Jim Todd, local MP Alan Brown and local councillors.

MEMBER NEWS

BARR ENVIRONMENTAL RECOGNISED FOR ITS COMMITMENT TO THE SCOTTISH BUSINESS PLEDGE

PARTNE 4 BUSI R NESS

Keith Brown, MSP, Cabinet Secretary for the Economy, Jobs and Fair Work together with Jeane Freeman, MSP for Carrick, Cumnock and Doon Valley and Minister for Social Security visited Barr Environmental’s head office at Killoch in East Ayrshire on the 24 October 2016 to recognise the leading resource management company’s commitment to the Scottish Business Pledge.

The Scottish Business Pledge is a valuesled partnership between Government and business, which is a shared ambition of boosting productivity, competitiveness, sustainable employment, and workforce engagement and development.

Gavin Money, Director at Barr said, “It was pleasure to host the visit of Keith and Jeane in

celebrating our commitment to the Scottish Business Pledge. This is an initiative which we would encourage other businesses in our industry and region to support. We continually invest in the development of our people and recognise the need to create infrastructure to support Scottish Government’s Zero Waste Plan and believe this will generate significant benefits in the shape of new jobs and new skills whilst maintaining Scotland’s position at the forefront of resource management.”

Keith Brown MSP, Cabinet Secretary for the Economy, Jobs and Fair Work said: “This Government is committed to building a fairer and more prosperous Scotland and the Scottish Business Pledge is a key part of our strategy to stimulate inclusive growth, protect and create jobs and promote Scotland as a great place to do business.

“I was delighted to visit Barr Environmental to see first-hand how they are supporting the values of the Business Pledge, including fostering innovation, supporting employees through a commitment to pay the Living Wage and playing an active role in the community.”

Jeane Freeman MSP for Carrick, Cumnock and Doon Valley continued: “I am delighted that this important local company has signed the Business Pledge, making public the commitment to both fair work and to the local community for which they are already well known and justifiable proud.”

The company also revealed plans for the creation of £60 million energy-from-waste facility which would be constructed at Barr’s site at Killoch.

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Eureka Solutions, headquartered in East Kilbride, but with strong Ayrshire roots, specialises in providing business systems which ensure that clients have the information they need, where and when they need it, to operate more profitably.

As a leading provider of cloud software and a 5 star NetSuite Partner, Eureka Solutions understands the operational advantages a cloud-based system can bring to a business.

A number of Ayrshire businesses agree: VG Energy, based in Galston, Neogen Europe in Ayr and Kilmarnockbased Spearhead all benefit from the Eureka Solutions approach.

The ability to access vital business data, wherever you are and from any device, is essential for businesses, especially those with staff based across a number of locations, out on site with customers, travelling on business or working remotely. At Eureka Solutions, we don’t just sell such solutions, we practically live and breathe them.

Earlier this year, following a surge in recruitment, we embarked, over a week-

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We see the benefits of deploying cloud business solutions every day within the daily operations at Eureka Solutions and with the experience of having undergone our own migration to a Cloud ERP solution we believe we can be even more supportive in our implementation of software to our customers.

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end on a move to new premises which offered efficient, modern and flexible open plan accommodation, created room for further expansion in the future as well as a pleasant and contemporary working space.

Undertaking such a move without a tried and tested cloud infrastructure is a technological minefield with downtime, system issues and customer service issues no more than to be expected.

But, as Eureka solutions’ MD Gillian Livingstone calls it: “During the move, operating from cloud applications allowed all Eureka Solutions team members to operate efficiently whilst seamlessly delivering a first-class service to customers, and with zero disruption to the day to day processes.

“We see the benefits of deploying cloud business solutions every day within the daily operations at Eureka Solutions and with the experience of

having undergone our own migration to a Cloud ERP solution we believe we can be even more supportive in our implementation of software to our customers.“ Eureka Solutions has a significant customer base throughout the UK, with many projects in the pipeline - a recent success was the implementation a Cloudbased ERP system at Derby County football club - and several team members who work remotely in various locations.

With all business applications running from cloud-based software all Eureka Solutions team members have ease of access to the information they need, when they need it: from members of the sales team signing off with customers, to support staff assisting with customer queries.

For us at Eureka Solutions, this is an essential part of maintaining a renowned reputation of excellent customer service.

YOUR BUSINESS | WINTER 2016

EUREKA SOLUTIONS: LEADING PROVIDER OF CLOUD SOFTWARE

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CELEBRATING AYRSHIRE'S TD

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The Ayrshire Business Awards certainly can’t be accused of being dull affairs. When we say we want to celebrate Ayrshire business, we mean it!

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Glitz and glamour was brought to Seamill Hydro last Thursday as over 350 guests attended one of the highlights of the local business calendar at Seamill Hydro.

DEVELOPING THE YOUNG WORKFORCE AYRSHIRE AWARD

MOST PROMISING NEW BUSINESS AWARD

Sponsored by Munro Partnership

Sponsored by Business Gateway Ayrshire

IN ER OUS INN E H

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W ISITAR V

W G H AM

CUN

TOURISM AWARD

HEALTH AT WORK AWARD Sponsored by Westfield Health

AL ER ESTIV N F N I AE

W RICO

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Sponsored by Seamill Hydro

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A ALL

INNOVATION IN BUSINESS AWARD

AYRSHIRE FOOD AND DRINK AWARD

Sponsored by North Ayrshire Council

Sponsored by East Ayrshire Council

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APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR AWARD Sponsored by Trump Turnberry

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INDEPENDENT RETAILER OF THE YEAR AWARD Sponsored by South Ayrshire Council

Ayrshire Chamber Chief Executive, Val Russell, said: “My congratulations to the winners of the Ayrshire Business Awards 2016.

“What these awards continue to do is highlight the enormous depth in talent Ayrshire has. Our judging panel have an extremely difficult decision choosing just one winner from each category as this year’s awards, like previous years, had so many deserving winners.”

Top TV personality Jackie Brambles played host for the evening with guests also entertained by surprise guest Britain’s Got Talent Finalist, Edward Reid, who had the whole room up standing as he performed a number of hits.

David Hughes, Managing Director, from principal sponsor Munro Partnership added: “The

S FINEST

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quality of application within each category year on year is truly outstanding, which pays tribute to the strength in depth of the business community across Ayrshire.

“On behalf of Munro Partnership, I would like to extend my congratulations to all of the winners in each of their respective categories, and also to ACCI for the continued support they give to the business community in Ayrshire.”

Kind-hearted guests also raised over £2500 for Alzheimers Scotland Kilmarnock Dementia Resource Centre during the charity raffle.

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Val added: “Jackie and Edward were great and played their role in making it an extra special night, the atmosphere was brilliant.

“I thank our guests for continued support and digging deep to raise money for local charities. We’re delighted to hand over this amount to the Kilmarnock centre.

“Norman and his team at Seamill continue to do an amazing job as host and play a big part in making the night the huge success it deserves to be.”

ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR AWARD

FAMILY BUSINESS AWARD

Sponsored by Entrepreneurial-Spark

Sponsored by Ayrshire Weekly Press

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EXCELLENCE IN CUSTOMER SERVICE AWARD

OUTSTANDING PERFORMING BUSINESS AWARD (LESS THAN 50 EMPLOYEES)

Sponsored by Kitchens by JS Geddes

Sponsored by Clydesdale Bank

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OUTSTANDING PERFORMING BUSINESS AWARD (MORE THAN 50 EMPLOYEES) Sponsored by GSK

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CHAMBER CHAMPION AWARD Sponsored by Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce and Industry

GETTING SCOTLAND ONLINE

AYRSHIRE-based company Internet Anywhere specializes in bringing satellite broadband to those who cannot otherwise get access to it.

Founder John Fitzgerald has spent almost 40 years in telecoms and, since starting the company in 2011, has travelled the length and breadth of the country, clocking up over 200,000 miles, in the process.

“In 2011 I was approached by one of my colleagues down south who was involved with satellite and suggested there was a potential opportunity for satellite broadband that was going to be launched in May 2011.

“That made me realise there is a great opportunity not only for remote, but we decided to concentrate on the commercial side of the business where people are working remotely but they’re not necessarily going to be there forever.

Short-term construction sites, hydro farms, wind farms; that kind of thing was of great interest to us.”

“It’s full communications, not just Internet. Interestingly enough, the satellite technology enables us to put in

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“I think the key for us with construction is that we arrive on-site and we are up and running in three hours.”

“Our customer base is pretty awesome,” John added. “The fact that in just about four years we’ve got, Cala Homes, Land Engineering, Luddon Construction, Dawn Group, Doosan Babcock, Stirling University, Glasgow University, BBC, NHS, and the Fire Service.

Internet Anywhere has been the recipient of awards including the Scottish Business Honours 2014 for Most Promising Business and was shortlisted in the Best Small Business category at the Great British Entrepreneur Awards 2015.

“The potential for broadband in Scotland is huge. There are actually 330,000 homes in Scotland that will never get high speed broadband.

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a VoIP (Voice Over IP) telephone, which means you can plug in a handset which will work off the satellite.

OCCAM ARCHITECTURE STARTS THE WAY IT MEANS TO CONTINUE

OCCAM Architecture is a new, exciting architects’ practice based in Kilmarnock led by two chartered architects, Colin Cogswell and Andrew Mair.

The pair have over 45 years of experience in every building sector and aim to keep architecture simple and in doing so deliver outstanding design and service.

However, one key aspect of their business ethos is undertaking charitable and community work. Andrew was the project architect for the recently completed new drop in centre for Ayrshire Cancer Support - a charity that relies wholly on donations, volunteer work and community support.

Every year Ayrshire Cancer Support sell Christmas cards to help their fundraising efforts and Colin and Andrew saw an

opportunity to give back to this fantastic charity by designing a bespoke Christmas card at no cost.

Colin said: “The card shows the new drop in centre in Kilmarnock being visited

by Santa on his special night; these cards are available from Ayrshire Cancer Support.

“Supporting local charities and volunteer organisations will remain a fundamental part of our business.”

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MARKETING THAT DOESN’T MISS A TRICK (OR TREAT) Anyone who has ever run an event knows that, no matter how amazing they are in concept, they don’t ‘sell themselves’. In order to attract crowds, organisers need to be armed with a marketing strategy that effectively promotes the event to their target audience.

It’s all very well having a vague idea about using social media, press and web to drive your attendance figures, but the best event marketing strategies follow a time-line and a logical sequence, with each promotion reinforcing the last.

The organisers of TamFest - Ayr’s Halloween festival with a Tam o’ Shanter twist - know that the development of an effective marketing and communications plan is essential for the delivery of a great event. That’s why they approached Launch for marketing support, following the agency’s work in making last year’s inaugural event so successful.

David Wilkinson, Managing Director at Launch, said: “Our first task was to develop the marketing strategy. That

meant reviewing last year’s activity, which increased footfall in the town centre by 20%, and creating a roadmap to achieve this year’s objectives.

Then we set about creating the tools to effectively reach the target audience. This involved developing desktop, tablet and mobile versions of the new website, designing posters, banners and street dressing, managing the Facebook page, and designing print adverts, presentations and the souvenir programme.”

Meredith McCrindle, Chair and Lead Producer of TamFest, said: “What an immense impact Launch has had in bringing this year’s festival alive! They gave us a comprehensive marketing plan and the creative tools to deliver it. I cannot thank them enough for their help. TamFest keeps going from strength-to-strength and this is in no small part due to the amazing team at Launch.”

It seems that no sooner have businesses, and taxpayers generally, overcame the additional hurdles placed upon them by the Government in relation to compliance tax and other regulatory requirements, than another hurdle appears.

Self-Assessment, IXBRL Filing, Real Time Information and Auto Enrolment are all hurdles to have been jumped recently and no sooner will these been cleared than another appears in the form of MTD - Making Tax Digital.

The Collins Partnership, Prestwick, explain: “In summary, and as far as we can see it at the moment, most businesses and letting clients will need to submit five sets of information a year to HMRC as distinct from one at the moment in the form of an annual tax return. These are four quarterly income and expenditure accounts in a specified format, followed by a final set of accounts with supporting tax return.

“MTD is scheduled to start in 2018 and whilst the consultation process is still underway there is no question that the Government is committed to having this in place by the stated date. It is absolutely vital that steps are taken now to consider the impact of these new requirements and to ensure that both the taxpayer and their adviser are well prepared for the additional demands this will create.”

You can visit www.collins-partnership. co.uk for more useful information.

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MEMBER NEWS

AYE, WE WANT TO BE ENTREPRENEURS! Designed to flourish the inner entrepreneurial buzz of Ayrshire’s young people, #AYE was a series of events over six months to help school pupils start up and grow sustainable business in school.

The first major project led by Developing the Young Workforce Ayrshire group in partnership with The Prince’s Trust, it included the backing of a number of Ayrshire entrepreneurs and micro businesses.

Launched in January 2016 to schools across Ayrshire, young people were invited to attend monthly club meetings across the three Local Authorities. #AYE, Ayrshires Young Entrepreneurs, was created to help arm young people across Ayrshire with the necessary skills and knowledge to set up a sustainable business in school

Cumnock Academy, Cumnock Promotional Gift, Awarded £1150 to manufacture bespoke promotional products to raise funds to allow Cumnock Academy Business and Technologies faculty to remain at the ‘cutting edge’ of technology.

The project allowed young people to attend workshops focussed on: Idea Validation, Marketing, Market Research, Finance, team building and customer service.

At each event young people were given the chance to meet a local young entrepreneur who has benefited from support from the Princes Trust Scotland to hear their story and ask questions. 11 micro businesses engaged in the process all of whom have committed to ongoing engagement with schools.

DYW Ayrshire is grateful to following businesses - AHC, White Rabbit Skincare Products, KZ Hair, Ikonic Print, Taylor Associates, Animal Health & Welfare Solution, SK Fitness, Bad Boy Graphics, Electric Daisy, VG Travel, & Roundsquare Roastery for their support and time throughout the project.

Greenwood Academy, Awarded £500 for a stationery shop in the school’s atrium. The business is linked to a good behaviour reward system in the school where pupils earn points to purchase stationary through good behaviour and receiving a commendation from teachers and year heads.

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Also to The Prince’s Trust, Entrepreneurial Spark, Barclays Lifeskills, Stellar UK Ltd and Launch Scotland for the delivering on the specialised workshops.

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DYW Ayrshire Employee Engagement Officer Gillian Cameron explained: “The concept of this project was to encourage pupils’ entrepreneurial instincts and give them guidance to carry out their own projects for their schools’ benefit.”

Lindsay Bull, Faculty Head, Business and technologies, Cumnock Academy, added: “I one for believe it is the best series of events aimed at this area of the curriculum for a very long time and we look forward to our business flourishing in the coming years.”

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Kyle Academy, Awarded £2250 to sell customised products to the school community which will designed and printed in school. They will offer a range of high quality products such as phone covers, mugs and pull-string bags to raise money for school funds.

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THE FUTURE’S BRIGHT FOR AYRSHIRE’S WORKFORCE North Ayrshire Council’s Modern Apprentices took home two awards at the final of Modern Apprentice Challenge held in October.

‘Team Betsy’ impressed judges to collect the Best Overall Portfolio and Innovation within a Project awards. Other winners were East Ayrshire Council and GE Caledonian.

Modern Apprentices from across Ayrshire came together for the final at The Park Hotel, Kilmarnock, during Ayrshire Business Week.

The purpose of the challenge is to develop and strengthen links between Ayrshire businesses and their communities by setting the task to deliver a project of benefit to their local communities.

Entrants had six months to carry out their project, before presenting to judges from Skills Development Scotland and Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce and gives an excellent opportunity for apprentices to showcase their acquired skills and gain new ones.

Gillian Cameron, Employee Engagement Officer DYW Ayrshire, added: “This year’s finalists each submitted strong projects that benefits and adds value to their local community and the judging panel were impressed with the work the young apprentices put into their projects this year. Well done to all of this year’s finalists.”

Team Betsy made up of modern apprentices Danielle Smith, Madaleine Gaw, Bethan Remmington, Joanne Maitland and Maxine Kelly

THIS YEAR’S WINNERS WERE: Team Betsy (North Ayrshire Council) – Best Overall Portfolio and Innovation within a Project for producing a special ebook for Betsy Miller.

East Ayrshire Council – Developing the Young Workforce Award for building flower beds for Kirkstyle Primary, Kilmarnock GE Caledonian – Best Presentation for building a curved bench for Ayrshire Cancer Support 2016 FINALISTS: Spirit Aerosystems, motorised Thomas the tank engine Albion Environmental, garden project at Muirhead Project UTC built a summerhouse at Ailsa Hospital GSK, renovated Springside Primary, Irvine outdoor space The Modern Apprentice Challenge is sponsored by Skills Development Scotland in partnership Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce, DEVA Training, Developing the Young Workforce Ayrshire and Munro Architects.

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WHO WOULD YOU EMPLOY? At the end of October, senior pupils from Cumnock, Doon and Kyle Academies were welcomed to the annual Aviator Suite Employer Engagement Event held at Prestwick Airport.

Pupils had previously applied for one of six mock job adverts and teachers then selected the best completed forms to attend the event.

Interviewers included Beauty Spot, The Galleon Centre, The Royal Air Force, UTC Aerospace Systems and NHS Ayrshire and Arran. By having a variety of representatives from different sectors, the job adverts this year appealed to a wider range of pupils.

At request of teaching staff an element of competition was introduced this year with each Interviewer identifying one person that they would have most likely employed.

Feedback was excellent with pupils stating their mock interview had been a great experience by increasing their confidence and making them feel more prepared for the future.

Pupils were also given the opportunity to participate in a two further workshops ran by GlaxoSmithKline and Ashleigh (Scotland). The groups were mixed with young people from each of the schools to make the situation as realistic as possible. These scenarios are typical of the type of group assessment which companies can use during an assessment centre.

Ashleigh (Scotland) set groups the challenge of building the tallest structure using only spaghetti and tiny marshmallows. This proved to be harder than anticipated and allowed the teams to understand that communication and team work are key to success.

Meanwhile, GSK set pupils a scenario where they had to identify which items from a list were most important and why. During this task the group members were assessed by company representatives who were able to provide feedback on who had performed well within the team.

HOW BEST TO BRING EMPLOYERS AND THEIR POTENTIAL YOUNG WORKFORCE TOGETHER? BREAKFAST!

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Well, Largs Academy’s answer was to set up a number of Business Breakfasts.

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The first such breakfast took place on the 13th September, with plenty of morning rolls and coffee on the menu!

Local and national employers were invited along to speak to senior pupils to discuss their requirements from young people as employees, and the pupils had the chance to find out what careers were available as school leavers.

Award-winning construction company Ashleigh Scotland were joined by local creative design company Gosh Creative and the Army, as well as 25 senior pupils in the S6 canteen to have a frank and informative chat.

Topics such as modern apprenticeships, work experience, and qualifications were all covered by the employers, and the students learned about the soft skills they would need for the workplace.

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The school have since hosted another breakfast, with the final event to be held on Tuesday 6 December.

If you are interested in taking part, please email Tony at tmccafferty@ayrshire-chamber.org

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Laura Rennie of ArenaHR recently set a real life business challenge for S6 Leadership pupils at Marr College. With Laura having her event, ‘Autumn Attitude Experience’ approaching at The Marine Hotel she thought it would be a great opportunity to involve pupils and help develop their event management skills.

As Laura is one of businesses currently within Entrepreneurial Spark she decided to challenge pupils and gave them the weekend to create a pitch to sell themselves as to why they should be picked for a particular role within the team. This was a great experience and got pupils thinking about their skills and qualities in a different light.

With job roles then decided, the group quickly got to work, with the event only a few weeks away. Laura then met with the team on several other occasions to catch up on progress.

Some of the team members used their knowledge of social media to assist Laura with event promotion whilst others contacted local businesses for raffle prizes and helped create a seating plan.

The creative team members designed the ‘gift boxes’ for those

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A REAL INSIGHT INTO THE BUSINESS WORLD delegates who had purchased their tickets early by researching positive quotes and including quirky gifts, each with a hidden meaning.

The hard work did not stop there and on the day of the event pupils helped set up, ran the registration desk and formulated introductions.

Overall pupils had a fantastic time and are importantly able to use the experience as evidence for their Leadership Course.

“A real insight into the business world.” Hazel MacGarvie “The experience helped develop our organisational skills for the world of work.” Jack Strang As a result of their experience some of the young people enjoyed working with Arena and The Marine Hotel so much that they then applied for positions. All of whom have been successful and have since been appointed in part time roles.

Laura Rennie commented: “I really enjoyed the project with the pupils, their enthusiasm and drive was so positive and kept me on my toes. They are great role models for the rest of the school.”

DISABILITY INCLUSIVE = CONFIDENT EMPLOYERS A local Ayrshire initiative DICE, aimed at employers, will launch on 27th January, 2017 at the Grand Hall, Kilmarnock.

DICE stands for Disability Inclusive = Confident Employers and the 23 partner organisations working together will take every opportunity at the event to inform employers of the help available to them.

The event is being sponsored by Remploy and East Ayrshire Council and is also part of the national Disability Confident campaign.

Services including Fit for Work Scotland, Access to Work and

Working Health Services are examples aimed at maintaining a working environment which supports current staff to remain in the work place.

The aim of Disability Confident is to halve the current employment rate gap by 2020. The ‘two tick’ disability scheme has been replaced with a 3 level Disability Confident Scheme, to help employers make the most of the opportunities provided by employing disabled people.

If you are interested in attending this event as an employer please email james.watson@dwp.gsi.gov.uk and your registration can be arranged thereafter.

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The second day I was there I got the chance to observe a production meeting and ordered some bins with help from Natalie the Business Development Co-ordinator’s and we also ordered some recycling stickers for the bins.

On my third day, I researched potential rail customers for S + C and went through job cards to calculate employee hours and wages.

Day four was more physical and I helped lift signs into the workshop to be welded and built the bins I ordered earlier in the week.

My last day I had to check the sizes of an agricultural gear box housing and then send the sizes to a supplier who needed to make another one. To finish I got to fly a drone over the building which S+C want to use to make a film of their workshop. That was really good fun!

I really enjoyed my time at S + C Engineering.”

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“The first day I really enjoyed. I was showed lots of different things like how to plan a job & make a ramp, fill out a purchase order then what happens to it when it is filed.

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Speaking of her placement, Rachel said: “During my work experience I have been leading warm ups for classes including movement and stretches. I'm helping Katherine Penton and Lorna Jones the P.E. Teachers to collect and organise equipment and also join in with activities if anyone needs a partner.”

The third year pupil was praised for her attitude during her placement by the teachers she worked with. Lorna Jones, P.E. Teacher, said: “She is very confident, and is happy to lead warm ups.

During swimming, she worked with the less able pupils, and showed patience and encouragement. She always offers to help, and is willing to get involved in all aspects of our lessons.

Natalie O'Connell, Work Experience Co-ordinator at Girvan Academy, added: “Rachel has settled in very well to the routines here. She is cheerful and confident and is comfortable talking to pupils and staff.”

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Rachel spent her placement in Ayr at Wellington School supporting the physical education team promote fitness to the school’s pupils.

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MAKING GIFTS MEMORABLE

OPEN DAY AT DUMFRIES HOUSE INSPIRES HUNDREDS OF BUDDING ENGINEERS

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The experience was interesting and a lot different from what she was expecting.

She saw how involved the process was for

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From making and working in a workshop environment and dealing with customers in the shop to organising and filing, cataloguing, checking out books and interacting with children with BookBug by reading stories and joining in with singing.

making jewellery in the workshop. In her week in October she was involved in making silver and bronze Christmas ornaments, filing silver stars and adding wire fastenings and really enjoyed the hands on experience. Bronwen is currently studying National 5 Art and Design and this helped her with applying the design process, carefully executing details and manipulating materials as well as seeing first-hand what it would be like to run your own business and be a designer.

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Bronwen split her time between the Jeweller Marion Kane and the West Kilbride library giving her a well-rounded and varied experience of work.

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More than 400 people with an interest in engineering flocked to Dumfries House as part of the UK’s largest celebration of workplace engineers.

The Institute of Engineering and Technology’s (IET) Open House Day took place across the UK at iconic venues such as the Victoria and Albert Museum and London’s National Theatre as well as at the East Ayrshire estate’s Morphy Richards Engineering Education Centre.

Representatives of businesses such as Scottish Power, BAE Systems, Ayrshire College, GlaxoSmithKline, and Leonardo (formerly Selex) – who collaborate on education projects with the estate’s engineering staff – were on hand to enable school-age children to experience virtual reality tours of renewable energy sites, interactive activities explaining anti-doping testing for athletes, workshops on flight, bridge-building, and 3D printing.

The team of gardeners at Dumfries House also assisted with a display on gardening tools and agricultural methods from an engineering perspective.

IET ran its Open House Day as part of their ‘Engineer a Better World’ campaign showcasing engineering career opportunities open to young people.

Dr Karen Alexander from Dumfries House, said: “Engineering Open House Day is a truly great initiative and a great opportunity to showcase some of the fantastic opportunities that a job in the engineering sector can hold, which is something we promote through the in-house STEM workshops we host for school children and teachers throughout the year here at Dumfries House.”

With demand for engineers exceeding supply and males outnumbering women in the industry by around ten to one, the IET hopes to inspire a new generation to take up the trade.

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MEMBER NEWS

LAYING FOUNDATIONS FOR GROWTH Ayr based LMA Architects are pleased to announce promotions to key positions from within its existing studio team.

Graham Whitters, Alan Law, and Mark McHenry have been promoted to the position of Associate with Daynah Hill taking up the role of Practice Manager. The promotions coincide with a restructure of roles at senior management level brought about by the continued growth of the business.

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Stephen McGhee, Principal, stated “I am delighted to announce these key promotions within the studio. All four have contributed to the development and growth of the business over the last few years and these new roles, aligned with a restructure at senior management level, will

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place the business in a strong position for further growth over the coming years.”

Alan will continue to specialise in the hotel sector and will take up a specific role managing client relationships, Graham will specialise in the healthcare and residential sectors and take up responsibility for design within the studio and Mark will specialise in the local authority sector and take responsibilities for business development.

Daynah Hill who joined the studio as a PA to the Principal will take on the role as Practice Manager at an exciting time in the development of the studio as they plan a move to new premises to accommodate the expansion of the business.

Stephen added: “In addition to the project work and management responsibilities, all four have contributed to building and shaping the vibrant culture of the studio.”

“Over the last few years the business has invested in the development of the team through training and coaching at all levels of the business.

This has included investment in new apprentices as well as key appointments at senior level.

“I am particularly pleased that the investment in our team is not only bearing fruit but has also been recognised by us obtaining Investors in People Silver Standard and Investors in Young People accreditation along the way.”

After 16 years in business, Sugar & Spice of Largs has undergone a makeover and rebranded itself as Geraldo’s.

Over the years customers have been confused with another shop by the same name, so owner Toni Dawson decided to a change was in order.

Toni said: “I started exhibiting at food and drink festivals last year and was amazed after all these years how many people were still confused between the two shops.”

She continued: “It became even more apparent as I exhibited further afield that it had to change. Largs BID (Business Improvement District) gave me access to a fantastic retail consultant, John Cowan, who put me in touch with a number of industry experts. I couldn’t have done it without the support of North Ayrshire Council who assisted with consultancy support for everything including strategy, branding, retail and marketing.”

Toni started her enterprise when her parents lost their family business during the last recession after 30 years’ trading.

Seeing Largs as a place with so many opportunities, she initially started out as a cheap and cheerful sweet shop.

She said: “I never expected to be here this long but I love Largs and the business has grown and developed considerably over the years. Our family has always been in the ice cream business and just before my Dad died of cancer 11 years ago I set up my own ice cream production on-site and, in memory of my Dad, called it Geraldo’s.”

She continued: “Every consultant I worked with said it was the obvious name for the shop rebrand and we’re now looking at development plans for our artisan ice cream and providing a more focused offering of handmade chocolates and premium spirits. We’re continuing to work more closely with independent distilleries for our growing range of Scotch whiskies and craft spirits and the craft gin market in particular is huge.”

The business was recently recognised

by Visit Scotland as a 4-star Tourist Shop and with the second phase of development due to start early next year.

MANAGING CANCER IN THE WORKPLACE In the UK there are currently over 700,000 people of working age living with a cancer diagnosis. In Ayrshire, the total number of people living with or beyond cancer exceeds 14,000 and this is forecast to increase to around 24,000 by 2030.

Many will continue to work after or even through their treatment. For people who have experienced ill health or disability, remaining in or returning to work can actually help to promote recovery and lead to better health outcomes. Many people living with cancer say that work is important to them. A job can restore normality, routine, stability, social contact and income.

Cancer can affect your business more than you would expect. If you run a business and one of your employees is affected by cancer, potentially it can have a major impact on the business. Employers play a pivotal role in supporting people with cancer and their careers. A good relationship between an employer and an employee is more likely to lead to a successful return to work and a positive business impact.

Employers or line managers may not always feel confident about how best to support an employee who is affected by cancer. There are challenges at the time of diagnosis, during treatment, at the time of return to work and beyond. Balancing the needs of the business and the individual can be tough.

Support is available to help employers during these challenging times. Seminars are now available throughout Ayrshire that provide some key hints and tips and access to a range of materials and tools for business.

Details can be found at: www.carena.org.uk/cancer-business-seminar If you feel you need more specialist advice and guidance you can call the Macmillan Support Line on 0808 808 0000 or visit macmillan.org.uk/work

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MEMBER NEWS

CRUCIAL DRINKS RAISES £2M TO TAKE BUSINESS INTO NEXT GROWTH PHASE

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Boutique drinks business, Crucial Drinks has secured £2m of investment following a recent funding-round, through existing shareholders and an extension to its banking facility with Clydesdale Bank.

The independent drinks company based in Ayrshire has spent the past three years concentrating its efforts on developing two key strategic brands for the company internationally.

These include the hugely successful craft whisky portfolio, The Lost Distillery Company and signature rum brand, Six Saints, which is the only rum to be exported from Grenada.

In a relatively short time, founders Scott Watson and Brian Woods have developed an extensive and enviable distribution network for their brands overseas. Crucial is exporting to 40 markets worldwide and has a revenue of over £2m.

The speed and ambition with which the company has expanded and

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continues to grow is testament to the dynamism and entrepreneurial spirit of the team.

The recent investment secured will support Crucial’s plans to drive efficiency, accelerate business growth and continue to build the profile of its brands in key overseas markets such as the Germany, France, Asia and North America.

Commenting on the business strategy, Scott Watson, co-founder of Crucial Drinks said: “Our combined efforts with Clydesdale and our shareholders has been extremely successful. These funds are vital to us achieving the growth and scale we have planned to extend existing operations in Scotland, while meeting the increasing consumer demand for our artisan brands.”

Linda Paterson, Relationship Manager at Clydesdale also added: "Crucial Drinks is a highly regarded and innovative drinks exporter based in Scotland. It's great to see the business grow into its grand new home at Dumfries House.”

TOP AWARD FOR RACECOURSE CHEF DE CUISINE PAUL Ayr Racecourse and Western House Hotel Chef de Cuisine Paul Cuthbert has been named the 2016 Catering Personality of the Year at the National Racecourse Catering Awards.

Paul, who lives in Dundonald, was unable to attend the event held earlier this month at Doncaster Racecourse and was presented with his award and a magnum of champagne by Ayr Racecourse MD David Brown at the course on Saturday.

A delighted Paul said: “This is not just for me but for the entire kitchen staff. It is a real team effort and I thrilled for us all to win this.”

Ayr Racecourse Managing Director David Brown added: “It is a great honour for Paul and the team at Ayr Racecourse and Western House that he has been recognised in this way.

“The National Racecourse Catering Awards are very prestigious within the industry and this is a great accolade.”

Paul has spent more than 34 years preparing sumptuous food and picking up award after award in doing so. On leaving school he began working in various hotels in and around Ayrshire and has built up a reputation over the years as a chef who specialises in catering for large functions.

Over his many years in the catering industry Paul has won a plethora of awards include three Scot Hots, a Gold Medal at the Culinary Olympics in 2000 and National Chef of the Year Awards in 1994, 96 and 98.

He worked for many years for Celtic FC before joining Ayr Racecourse & Western House Hotel in 2009 Paul as Head Chef becoming Chef de Cuisine in 2014.

MEMBER NEWS

DRAIN KLEAR – PROVIDING RELIABLE 5-STAR SERVICE

Drain Klear are one of a number of Ayrshire businesses helping to keep the 5-star resort running smoothly.

Where an area is persistently flooding, it is important to get to the root cause and that’s exactly what the specialists at Drain Klear did when called out to an emergency at the historic Turnberry Golf Clubhouse, host to four Open Championships.

Working efficiently and discreetly to trace the source of the problem whilst preventing any downtime on site, allowing the clubhouse to maintain its food, beverage and retail operations throughout the entire programme of works.

Director, John Thomson, has a reputation for providing sound, knowledgeable advice and, with over 30 years’ experience behind him and all the challenges he has faced over the years, his daily motto remains “excellence always” – a standard which is easily transmitted to both staff and customers alike!

John commented: “We are proud to have been servicing Ayrshire for over 30 years. Our experience dictates that there will be a big increase in emergency call outs to clear blocked drains and guttering from debris resulting from the change in the seasons from autumn into winter, but rather than waiting for the problem to arise, we can now provide a commercial planned maintenance service to ensure

NEW HOME FOR PROPERTY AGENT

Ayr Estate & Letting Agents is delighted to introduce its new home in Ayr.

Alan Lavelle’s property business has taken up residence at 2 Parkhouse Street, Ayr, where he’s been hard at work to renovate the office.

Speaking to Your Business, Alan explained: “We have been working hard over the last few months and are delighted that the office is now open and the team are ready to go.

“It’s been a long process getting here but I’m pleased that the work is done and we can get on with helping people find homes.

“Our team at Ayr Estate Agents are passionate about selling property and delivering excellent customer service, ensuring that you will use us again and again. We take the time to understand individual needs and provide our customers with an accurate valuation in order to attract the best levels of interest.

“Our database of buyers is growing on a daily basis enabling us to immediately present property to serious buyers.”

And Alan feels he has the team to help the business grow successfully over the next few years. He added: “We want to see the business grow and we have the team to do that.”

that the routine issues don’t lead to more expensive repair costs down the line.”

The company is continually investing to ensure they have the latest tracing technology at their disposal and can work safely from height or in the confined spaces that come with the territory, so any health and safety risks can be constantly controlled and monitored.

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MEMBER NEWS

ROAD USERS; THE DANGERS OF DISTRACTION

PERFECTING YOUR MESSAGE Ayr now has its first specialist copywriting agency. GB Marketing, which was established in 2007 by communications consultant Gillian Bruce, has rebranded and relaunched as Word Perfect Copywriting.

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Word Perfect offers creative copywriting for all marketing and corporate communications, both on and offline including websites, newsletters and magazines, corporate brochures, promotional material and campaign resources.

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Gillian says: “The main focus of my business changed over the years, as I discovered there was a real demand for professional copywriting. As I approached my 10th year of trading, I decided it was time to rebrand to properly reflect who I am and what I do – a copywriter who creates clear, crisp content to help clients communicate effectively with their target audiences.

“Good copy is just as important as good design. Content must be written in the right tone of voice, with the right key messages to help businesses connect

with their customers and outshine their competitors.”

Word Perfect is based in Ayr town centre, but works with clients across Ayrshire, Glasgow and the UK. For the whole story, visit the agency’s new website, designed by Ayrshire’s See Saw Creative, at www.wordperfectcopy.co.uk To discuss your next project, call Gillian on (01292) 287554 or 07745 485366.

NHS Ayrshire and Arran’s Workplace team would like to raise awareness of the dangers of road user distraction. In Scotland hundreds of people are being killed and injured on a daily basis involving distracted motorists, road users, riders, cyclists, and even pedestrians.

Road users are distracted whilst undertaking another activity, placing extra demands on their attention of using the road safely.

The main types of distraction are: • Visual (e.g. looking away 4 BUS INESS from the road for a non-related task); • Cognitive (e.g. reflecting on another subject rather than analysing the road/ surrounding situation); • Physical (e.g. when the driver/cyclist, pedestrian or rider holds or operates a device or uses one hand to hold food or drink or to smoke); • Auditory (e.g. responding to a ringing mobile phone, or if a device is turned up so loud that it masks other sounds, such as ambulance sirens).

Risks of using a mobile phone whilst driving The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) are raising awareness to the public of not phoning or texting a loved one you know is driving.

Research undertaken by RoSPA has highlighted that motorists are four times more likely to have crash either using a handheld or hands-free phone. Recent prosecutions in England have highlighted the dangers of driving using a mobile phone. Nick Lloyd, RoSPA’s road safety manager, said: “Imagine you are travelling at 40mph in a residential area, the phone rings and you pick it up and have a quick look – in the two seconds it’s taken you will have travelled for around 40 metres, completely blind.

For more information visit RoSPA website www.rospa.com

PART NER

As part of our goal to deliver a UNIQUE service to the Ayrshire business community, we are delighted to introduce The Talkingheads Partnership.

Our purpose is that of impartial business advisors, bringing a powerful track record and reputation for improving and transforming organisations.

The unique bit is that we will only agree to engage with you if we can guarantee to deliver: ü Improved profitability and expenditure efficiencies ü Optimised sales & marketing performance ü Greater cultural harmony.

That is our guaranteed promise…!

We begin by carrying out a strategic review of existing business practices, before providing a detailed action plan. We analyse current

performances, identify instant and substantial savings as well as areas where a change of mindset will bring about greater internal harmony.

Our differentiator is in: ü Controlling cost to improve profit

margins and eradicating unnecessary expenditure ü Analysing - current performances and

identifying instant and substantial savings ü Reviewing - Sales & Marketing

effectiveness and performance ü Changing - mind-sets to bring about

greater internal harmony ü Helping - secure in the past seven years

over £4m of Scottish Enterprise

investment for our clients as well as

over £3m worth of Research &

Development tax credits from The Treasury

ü Enabling - through experience and a

proven track record in these fields.

Our independence means we instigate this positive disruption, objectively and without allegiances.

Contact us @ info@thpartnership.co.uk tel: 01292 388400

Just add you!

TRUSTED SINCE 1963

GIVING OUR CLIENTS THE EDGE ONLINE

UK-WIDE PLUMBING FRANCHISE

HYPNOTHERAPY / EMDR / NLP

YOUR BUSINESS | WINTER 2016

PRESTWICK BUSINESS CENTRE INTRODUCES THE TALKINGHEADS PARTNERSHIP…

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CHAMBER EVENTS ROUND UP

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

Much of the attention centred around Ayrshire Business Week in the last period, however there were some excellent events hosted in autumn.

We began with a fun team building exercise with our friends at Yemonary Reserve Centre in Ayr where they had prepared a number of challenges designed to put our listening, strategy, communication and planning skills to the test, including a Mission Impossible style Faberge egg heist.

Next up we held a special event to mark the 250th birthday of Ayr wine merchant Corney and Barrow. As part of series of commemorative events, a Tall Ship docked in Ayr Harbour where a group of invited guests climbed aboard the vessel to enjoy wine and nibbles to celebrate.

Make sure you check our events diary to see what we have coming up over the next couple of months.

EVENTS DIARY DATES Providing you the opportunity to meet contact, expand your knowledge and grow your business BUSINESS BOOSTS - MANAGING STAFF PERFORMANCE, ABSENCE AND DISCIPLINARY MATTERS 25th November 8.30-11.00am Venue: Ayrshire Chamber Boardroom Facilitated by Balance HR

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£40

£10

GEMMELL’S GROTTO AND FESTIVE FUN 30th November 5.00-7.30pm Venue: Gemmell’s Garden Centre Host: Gemmell’s Garden Centre FREE

BUSINESS BOOSTS - CONFIDENT PRESENTATIONS 11th January 2017 8.30-11.00am Venue: Ayrshire Chamber Board Room Facilitated by Deva £40

BUSINESS BOOSTS - ADWORDS FOR GOOGLE 7th December 8.30-11.00am Venue: Ayrshire Chamber Boardroom Facilitated by Bread & Butter Marketing £40

CHAMBER CHRISTMAS TRIVIA CHALLENGE 8th December 6.00-9.00pm Venue: The Hallmark Hotel, Irvine Quizmaster: Robert Honeyman, The McKinstry Company Teams of 4 or individual places

NEW YEAR NEW OPPORTUNITIES @ AYRSHIRE COLLEGE 19th January 2017 5.30- 7.30 Venue: Ayrshire College, Kilmarnock Campus FREE

OPEN DOORS TO BUSINESS IN AYRSHIRE @ SEAMILL HYDRO 27th January 8.30- 11.00 Venue: The Firth Pavilion, Seamill Hydro Join members from Ayrshire Chamber, Business Gateway and Revolve Networking FREE

BUSINESS BOOSTS - GOOGLE ANALYTICS & SEARCH ENGINE OPTIMISATION 27th January 8.30-11.00am Venue: Ayrshire Chamber Boardroom Facilitated by Bread & Butter Marketing £40

BUSINESS BOOSTS - WOW YOUR CUSTOMERS TO GAIN CUSTOMER LOYALTY 8th February 8.30-11.00am Venue: Ayrshire Chamber Boardroom Facilitated by Stimuli Evolve £40

THE GREAT GAME OF BUSINESS @ STELLAR UK 15th February 10.30- 1.30pm Venue: Stellar, Irvine FREE

BUSINESS BOOSTS - TURNING COMPLAINTS INTO COMPLIMENTS 24th February 8.30-11.00am Venue: Ayrshire Chamber Boardroom Facilitated by Stimuli Evolve £40

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 ALLOWAY FINANCIAL LTD Ayr Mr Kevin Watt 07576216121 ARTISAN DELI (THE) Troon Ms Fiona Harris 07977235018 AYRSHIRE MAGAZINE Irvine Mr Andrew Attard 07985 241421 www.ayrshiremagazine.com BLING IT ON BOUTIQUE Ayr Mrs Susan Robb 07977286705 CAMERON PRESENTATIONS Glasgow Mr Campbell MacLeod 0141 420 6500 www.cameronpres.co.uk CLINIC 22 Kilmarnock Ms Madison Kelly 07801939025 CLYDE HR CONSULTING Skelmorlie Ms Lucie Aitkenhead 07841 989 598 FLAVA SHAKA Cumnock Mr Zac Burinski 07803345567

FROCKSTOROCK.COM Ayr Mrs Pamela McKay 07710415321 www.frockstorock.com GO VENDING Irvine Mr Graham Owens 01294 279536 www.govending.com GOLPHIN LTD Mr Stephen Alfonso Irvine 01294 537676 GRANT DIXON LTD Mr Daniel Callaghan Lugar 07919893771 www.grantdixon.co.uk INNOVEC LTD Mr Iain Wham Ayr 01292 427420 www.innovec.co.uk INTERNATIONAL SUMMER SCHOOL FOR TEENS Ms Carey Rowe Stewarton 07814093660 www.summerschoolforteensuk.com

IRVINE-THOMSON LTD Mrs Linda Irvine-Thomson Dundonald 07956170374

J PATON PLUMBING & HEATING Mr Jamie Paton Saltcoats 07809204980 www.jpaton.co.uk LAIRDS OF TROON LTD Mrs Johanna Laird Dundonald 08435574918 www.lairdsoftroon.com MORION THE HIGHLAND PRINCESS Ms Lyn Donoghue Troon 07920804494 NICHE (THE) Mr Colin Malcher Irvine 01294 683107 www.thenicheirvine.co.uk OCCAM ARCHITECTURE LTD Mr Colin Cogswell Kilmarnock 07903816207 www.occam-architecture.co.uk PETER J STEVENSON PHOTOGRAPHY Dalry Mr Peter Stevenson 07791516394 READY4RETIREMENT Irvine Mr David Nix 0800 6446 121 www.ready4retirement.uk

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MEMBW ERS

ROBERT MURRAY CONSULTING LTD Coylton Mr Robert Murray 07581 393977 SB OPHTHALMIC LENS TECHNOLOGIES UK LTD Galston Mr Hugh McNeillie 01563 821539 www.sboptical.com SC DECOR Ayr Mr Scott Cunningham 07891749233 SCOMA CONSULTANCY SERVICES Kilmarnock Ms Grace Manyika 07923276618 THOMSONS SQUARE SAUSAGE Craigie Miss Janie Thomson 01563 860654 www.thomsonssquaresausage.co.uk

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

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Growing your sales is not rocket science...

It’s just marketing.

Call your local marketing agency on 01292 286246 and see how we can add serious thrust to your sales.