Your Business Autumn edition

business your

the magazine of Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce and Industry

autumn 2017 ÂŁ2

connections

people

business

...your chamber!

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

The Chamber in Ayrshire represents businesses of all sizes and all sectors and is particularly effective in representing the voice of businesses at; local, national and international level.

The Partnership aims to cement the relationship that companies have with Ayrshire Chamber, making sure they get the most out of membership and in turn contributing to the work of the Chamber so supporting other business in Ayrshire.

while at the same time assist with

Partnership members have access to a comprehensive package of benefits,

McBride our Business Development

the development of the Chamber movement.

If you would like to discuss the mutual benefits of becoming a Partner for Business please contact Helen Manager.

GET THE DATE IN THE DIARY Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce can announce the date for their Annual Dinner 2018.

You can pencil Friday 9th March in your diary for the biggest night in Ayrshire’s business calendar which will return to Trump Turnberry following the success of the Platinum Anniversary Dinner in March this year.

Ayrshire Chamber Chief Executive Val Russell is looking forward to heading back to the venue. She said: “Our Platinum Anniversary dinner was an incredibly special night and it was setting that reflected such a wonderful occasion.

“We’re very happy to be heading back to Trump Turnberry for our 2018 Annual Dinner, it’s such a stunning venue and we’re fortunate to have it on our doorstep.”

Sponsorship opportunities are available including a Principal Sponsor for the night, which can be discussed with Yvonne Munro at Ayrshire Chamber.

Allan Ross from 2017 sponsor First Independent Finance believe the brand recognition received was money well spent and encourages other Ayrshire businesses to grasp the opportunities provided to them.

He added: “The work Val and her team put into the events, both large and small, provide an excellent platform for the development of a brand, and become moments in time worth looking back on.

“When one starts an Ayrshire business, the help that the Chamber can provide is extremely useful. As that business

grows, the Chamber recognises effort, helps provide confidence for the owner and is there with a helping hand when one needs some direction or assistance.

“When the business gets to a size where it can put something back, then it's worth remembering that the Chamber needs its more developed businesses to help in making its events programme possible.”

WELCOME

ON-GOING SUCCESS FOR THE CHAMBER This Platinum Anniversary year continues to be exciting and presents a host of opportunities for optimism, sustained growth, continued development and on-going success for the Chamber and its Members.

GRAEME MCKINSTRY ACCI PRESIDENT

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 lstewart@ayrshire-chamber.org

Adver tisingworks Scotland Ltd

www.advertisingworks.co.uk

Print & Distribution: www.brown-bros.com

Perhaps the most individually exciting aspect of our activities is the impressive programme of events devised and promoted by our Platinum Committee under the able and impressive leadership of Lorna Gibson, the Chamber Vice President. Particular thanks must also go to our events co-ordinator Yvonne Munro, who turns the ideas into reality with support from the rest of the Chamber Team.

Our Platinum Celebrations began in March with our dinner held in the stunning surroundings of Trump Turnberry. The achievements so far have been significant starting from the golf day at Dundonald Links, then a captivating five-a-side competition culminating with a grand finale in late July and many more events still to come, for more details of which you should access the Events section at ayrshire-chamber.org One flagship event worthy of a particular mention however is a Platinum Evening with Sir Tom Hunter at the prestigious Dumfries House location on 20 November. Full booking details will be available for this occasion shortly and you should treat this a “Save the Date” announcement.

Another eye catching event this year will be the announcement of the appointment of new Directors who will augment, enhance and strengthen the quality and range of knowledge, skills and expertise among the Board’s varied membership The interviewing process at the time of going to press is well advanced.

The quality and strength of the applications on this occasion has been outstanding and far surpasses interest in previous years and it is intended that appointments will be confirmed at the AGM on 14 September at The Carlton Hotel, Prestwick.

Among the other initiatives which we are promoting this year is an internal review stimulated by the Board but involving the entire Chamber team of the range, extent and suitability of membership benefits. The team are carrying out a route and branch review of all that we do, how we do it and whether and in what ways benefits to members can be improved and more news on this will follow over the coming months.

“

One flagship event worthy of a particular mention however is a Platinum Evening with Sir Tom Hunter at the prestigious Dumfries House location on 20 November...

”

Two of the various strategic objectives identified by the Board earlier in the year was to raise awareness and achieve and sustain improved growth in membership and in that regard a number of different programmes are under consideration including taking the Chamber to Primary Schools throughout Ayrshire, continuing our practice of hosting Board meetings throughout the three unitary authorities and reporting headline points to membership after each Board meeting.

The Board relies on the contributions, support and interest from all its membership and where you have any ideas to stimulate or change the Board’s thinking about improving the quality and benefits of membership please let Val or Helen at the Chamber office know of your ideas.

May I take this opportunity of wishing you every continued success through the Summer as we prepare for the Autumn and Winter months ahead and encourage you to support the Business Awards Dinner this year on 13 October at Ayr Racecourse.

YOUR BUSINESS | AUTUMN 2017

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AYRSHIRE BUSINESS AWARDS 2017

OUR FINALISTS HAVE NOW BEEN ANNOUNCED Following a huge number of entries for this year’s Business Awards, the judges faced a tough task short listing in each category but the companies making the cut across the 14 categories have now been revealed.

David Hughes, Managing Director the award’s Principal Sponsor 1825 Financial Planning, said: “Many congratulations to all the finalists at this year’s Ayrshire Business Awards. It is a fantastic achievement with so many high

quality businesses in Ayrshire, and one which your staff, clients and business will benefit from the deserved recognition that follows” Chamber CEO Val Russell added: “At this point I would like to thank all the judges who have worked so hard to get us to the end of this first stage. Each application is scored by two independent judges, scores aggregated to get the final three - no easy task!

“No one in the Chamber, including myself, are involved in the process.

I hope this shows what a robust and transparent process we have in place and that all finalists have done exceptionally well to get to stage two in what was an exceptional year for both number and quality of applications.

“Thanks also go to principal sponsor 1825 Financial Planning and all our category sponsors. Book tickets now as it’s shaping up to be a great night”

OUR 2017 FINALISTS ARE...

DEVELOPING AYRSHIRE’S YOUNG WORKFORCE AYRSHIRE AWARD Sponsored by 1825 Financial Planning • Billy Bowie Special Projects • Glaxosmithkline • Woodward Aircraft Engine Systems Prestwick AYRSHIRE APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR AWARD Sponsored by GSK • Luke Paton - Spirit AeroSystems (Europe) • Elliot Spence - VG Energy • David Alexander - Wallace McDowall

YOUR BUSINESS | AUTUMN 2017

GROWTH BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARD Sponsored by South Ayrshire Council • Global Quantum • Internet Anywhere • Lairds of Troon

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AYRSHIRE FOOD AND DRINK AWARD Sponsored by East Ayrshire Council • Beth Browning's Bakery • Cecchinis Restaurant Group • We Hae Meat EXCELLENCE IN CUSTOMER SERVICE AWARD Sponsored by Seamill Hydro • Heads of Ayr Farm Park • Richard Healey Removals Ltd • RAD Hotel Group

#GODO ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR AWARD Sponsored by Entrepreneurial Spark • Scot Weir Derbyshire-Weir • Melanie Blane White Rabbit Skincare • Mick Docherty Yakk INDEPENDENT RETAILER OF THE YEAR AWARD Sponsored by the Ayrshire Post, Irvine Herald and Kilwinning Chronicle and the Kilmarnock Standard • • •

LAH Travel Opus Couture Thistle Help

FAMILY BUSINESS AWARD Sponsored by North Ayrshire Council • Cecchinis Restaurant Group • MacKay Corporate Insurance Brokers • Richard Healey Removals EXCELLENCE IN PEOPLE DEVELOPMENT AWARD Sponsored by Ministry of Defence Defence Relationship Management • Ayrshire College • Cunninghame Housing Association Limited • LMA Architects •

START-UP BUSINESS OF THE YEAR Sponsored by Business Gateway • Craighead Nurseries • Green Home Systems • Pillow Property Partners BUSINESS IN THE COMMUNITY AWARD Sponsored by Rivergate Shopping Centre • Ashleigh Building • Glaxosmithkline • Solutions on Demand AYRSHIRE’S BEST BUSINESS (0-10 EMPLOYEES) Sponsored by UK Steel Enterprise Ltd • J’s Fitness Team • Solutions on Demand • Utopia Computers AYRSHIRE’S BEST BUSINESS (11-50 EMPLOYEES) Sponsored by The McKinstry Company • • •

Aspect Land & Hydrographic Surveys Green Home Systems LMA Architects

AYRSHIRE’S BEST BUSINESS (51 EMPLOYEES OR MORE) Sponsored by Westfield Health • Egger (UK) • Cunninghame Housing Association • RAD Hotel Group

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. Tickets are now on sale at via www.ayrshire-chamber.org/events

CHAMBER NEWS

CONTINUING TO OFFER THE HAND OF FRIENDSHIP TO BENEFIT TRADE To develop further markets Val joined forces with North Ayrshire Council and members from across Ayrshire to meet with the US Consulate to learn more of how businesses in the area can do more with their counterparts in the States.

Val gave an overview of the work of the Chamber and highlighted the many companies based here who produce goods for markets throughout the world.

Principal Officer at the US Consulate, Susan Wilson, spoke of the historical trading links between the two countries.

In the previous issue of Your Business, CEO Val Russell, gave an overview of her visit to China in the search of business opportunities for businesses here in Ayrshire.

This has already resulted in a visit from the Chair of British China Chamber of Commerce and the opportunity to meet the buyers of Jereh, a large China based company who is looking at expanding their supply chain.

• For more than a decade, the United States has been Scotland's top international export destination country, with an estimated £4.6 billion exports in 2015.

• The Unites States continues to be Scotland's number one provider of foreign investment: in 2016, 35 percent of all FDI projects into Scotland were of US origin.

• There are almost 600 US companies operating in Scotland, providing approximately 90,000 jobs.

Doing business with the United States • The US is the world's largest consumer market; a GDP of $18 trillion and 325 million people.

• The US is responsible for a quarter of global household consumption - in 2014, US families bought $11.5 trillion worth of goods and services.

• The US is still the number one choice for foreign investment, thanks in no small part to the UK. As of the end of 2014, the UK had invested $449 billion in the US - $76 billion more than our next largest investor, Japan. This investment supports more than one million jobs across the Unites States.

This dialogue with the Consulate will continue and if any business needs support getting into the US market please do not hesitate to contact us and we will pass onto their officers.

The Chamber will also be circulating a regular newsletter from the Consulate highlighting opportunities to our membership.

SAMPLING THE DELIGHTS OF SOUTH AYRSHIRE

Chamber staff and delegates got a close up look at some of South Ayrshire’s top tourism attractions before the summer break visiting Culzean Castle, Trump Turnberry, Glenapp Castle and AD Rattray Whisky Experience.

Over 30 businesses from Ayrshire and Glasgow jumped on the special bus tour along the coast to learn more about each venue.

Events co-ordinator Yvonne Munro said: “Our Tea, Tour & Tasting event

was a great success. We visited some real jewels in the Ayrshire crown that prove we have a lot to offer visitors to the area.

“I would like to thank Culzean Castle, Trump Turnberry, Glenapp Castle and AD Rattray for their support in this event and giving us such a warm welcome and hospitality. Thanks also to our tour guide Bruce Cochran kept us entertained between venues.”

YOUR BUSINESS | AUTUMN 2017

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“the perfect place to make new connections and promote your business"

#Connect4Growth

CONNECTING FOR GROWTH Ayrshire Business Week returns once again in October to give businesses the platform to develop, meet and grow their organisation to the biggest audience.

The five-day series of events is now in its tenth year taking places in venues across Ayrshire between Monday 9th October and Friday 13th October.

Ayrshire Chamber Chief Executive, Val Russell, said: “Ayrshire Business Week is all about providing opportunity, developing skillsets and growing the area’s economy.

“Each year, the Ayrshire business community turnout throughout the week for the chance to meet new customers, make new partnerships, develop and celebrate the region’s economic successes.

YOUR BUSINESS | AUTUMN 2017

“The programme is varied and offers something for all and I thank our supporting sponsors for their continued backing of Ayrshire Business Week.”

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Kicked off by Business Gateway Ayrshire at Dumfries House with The Business Fairground: Riding

the Rollercoaster on Monday 9th October at 9.30am, followed

by The Prince’s Trust Enterprise Awards in Saltcoats Town Hall from 2.30pm to 4pm.

On the Tuesday, Ayrshire’s biggest business to business and trade conference takes place at The Park Hotel, Kilmarnock.

‘Connect for Growth’ will see 100 stands with some of the area’s best businesses represented.

There will be plenty of activity on the Tuesday with Connect Networking, Made in Ayrshire a lunch celebrating Ayrshire’s manufacturing industry, Chamber Talks Media with PR Guru Marjorie Calder and former Newspaper editor John McLellan. A packed programme and all under one roof.

Rolling on to Wednesday, Ayrshire College ‘Engage. Develop.

Grow.’ at their Kilwinning campus from 8.30am to 12noon where you hear how your business can benefit from developing your own workforce. Seamill Hydro hosts the Women Mean Business lunch with special guest speaker, Gillian Docherty, of The Data Lab. Ayrshire’s aspiring apprentices have their moment under the spotlight at the final of the Modern Apprenticeship Challenge on Thursday 12th October at The Gailes Hotel, Irvine. Staying in Irvine, Ayrshire Chamber, in partnership with Scottish Chambers of Commerce, hosts a Trading with China at The Hallmark Hotel between 2 and 4pm giving information on the trade and investment opportunities on offer for local businesses.

Finally, this year sees the Ayrshire Business Awards Gala Dinner with principal sponsor 1825 Financial Planning, round off Ayrshire Business Week. Hosts Colin McArdle and Edward Reid will reveal the winners of this year’s awards at Ayr Racecourse.

Full details on all events on the Tuesday of Ayrshire Business Week can be found at www.ayrshire-chamber.org/events

OCTOBER

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OCTOBER

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OCTOBER

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The Business Fairground Riding the Rollercoaster

Connect for Growth B2B Exhibition

Engage.

Develop.

Grow.

Modern Apprenticeship Challenge

Ayrshire Business Awards Gala Dinner 2017

Dumfries House

The Park Hotel, Kilmarnock

Ayrshire College, Kilwinning Campus

The Gailes Hotel, Irvine

Ayr Racecourse

9:30am - 12:30pm

9:00am - 1:00pm

8:30am - 12 noon

10:00am - 1:00pm

FREE ENTRY

FREE ENTRY

FREE ENTRY

FREE ENTRY

TH

Business Gateway

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

TH

See page 9 for tickets

Exhibition Stand £75

The Prince's Trust Awards

Connect

TH

Women Mean Business Networking Lunch

Saltcoats Town Hall

The Blues Restaurant

2:30pm - 4:30pm

10:00am - 11:30pm

with Glasgow Chamber of Commerce

FREE ENTRY

FREE ENTRY

The Firth Pavillion, Seamill Hydro

THURSDAY

TH

FRIDAY

TH

OCTOBER

6:30pm - 12:00pm

£75

Trading with China Hallmark, Irvine 2:00pm - 4:00pm

FREE ENTRY

12 noon - 3:00pm

Ayrshire Talks Lunch

£36

The Dean Suite

2 course lunch with arrival drink

(40 - 60 Max) 1:00pm - 3:00pm

£24/£36 Non Member Day package available Stand and Lunch £99/£160 Non Member

‘EXCITING TIMES AT LAUNCH WITH NEW APPOINTMENT OF LAUREN WILKINSON’ The new line up at Launch is enhanced with Lauren joining the team, a recent honours graduate in marketing, Lauren will work closely with new and existing clients PARTN providing the ‘Rocket 4 BUSIN ER ESS Fuel for Business’ service that launch successfully promotes throughout Ayrshire and Glasgow.

Managing Director and Owner, David Wilkinson said: “With Lauren joining us, it truly is now a family business with Lauren now working alongside myself and her brother Darren, exciting times ahead for all of us at Launch.”

Launch handles every aspect of the marketing mix including branding, website design, social media, advertising and direct marketing, however, everything Launch does starts with strategy to ensure maximum results for all of our clients.

Creative Director, Richard Longmuir said: “It is great to have Lauren on board and with her being a fresh graduate she will bring lots of new ideas and marketing strategy to the mix.”

Launch ensures good design will separate you from your competition, define your brand positioning and audience. They also make sure your digital and printed communications are more usable and easier to understand.

Good design is at the heart of everything Launch does. It’s what they live and breathe.

From branding to brochures, website design to social media content, packaging to print, Launch excels in delivering eye-catching, onbrand design.

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OCTOBER

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9

MONDAY

CHAMBER NEWS

THE COMPETITION IS HEATING UP!

PLATINUM JUBILEE

LEAGUE QTS GROUP LTD

YOUR BUSINESS | AUTUMN 2017

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Three events down and it’s shaping up to be a straight fight between QTS Group Ltd and William Duncan & Co for the Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce Platinum Anniversary Cup. Can anyone else stop them?

After our Golf Day at Dundonald Links, supported by Aberdeen Asset Management Men’s Scottish Open and the European Tour, the competition took to the football pitch for rounds two and three.

The PowerLeague in Kilmarnock hosted the group stages of the football in late June with 18 teams from businesses across Ayrshire including a team Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce, taking part.

Plenty of goals on the night in all groups saw QTS Group, William Duncan & Co, Merck and McCulloch Rail qualify for the final at Rugby Park in July.

Events co-ordinator Yvonne Munro was delighted with how the football turned out. She said: “The group stage of the competition was a great evening.

The action was very competitive and every side trying hard to make the final.

“Every player represented their company fantastically well and there was some really good games.”

The four winning sides then took part in a final four showdown at Rugby

Park where the QTS Group came out on top after tense final against William Duncan & Co. Yvonne added: “It was a great night for the final and congratulations to the QTS Group on their win and well done to our other finalists William Duncan & Co, McCulloch Rail and Merck.

“Paul Di Giacomo at Kilmarnock was a massive help and ensured the night ran well and the players had everything they needed.

"Thanks also to our sponsor for the final Billy Bowie Special Projects, Brownings the Bakers and Kilmarnock Football Club for use of their stadium for the final."

The next points-scoring event in the Platinum series is The Great Ayrshire Chamber Platinum Bake Off sponsored

by Seamill Hydro and Ayrshire College in March next year.However, there are more Platinum events before then when Ayrshire Chamber welcomes Fraser Doherty of SuperJam and Beer52 to speak at our Platinum Lunch at The Carlton Hotel on Thursday 14 September and Sir Tom Hunter will speak at a very special ‘Platinum Audience with’ at Dumfries House on Monday 20 November. Full details of both events can be found at the Events section of our website ayrshire-chamber.org

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WILLIAM DUNCAN & CO 4

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MERCK/SIGMA ALDRICH...................................... 17 McCULLOCH RAIL................................................... 13 CECCHINIS.................................................................. 10 ASPECT LAND & HYDROGRAPHIC................... 10 BROWNINGS THE BAKERS..................................... 9 THE NVT GROUP........................................................ 8 THE McKINSTRY COMPANY.................................. 7 DUSTACCO/WATERMISER...................................... 6 ALAN WHITE DESIGN.............................................. 6 MACKAY CORP INSURANCE BROKERS............. 5 INGRAM MOTORING GROUP................................ 4 ANDREW GRAY & COMPANY................................ 4 THE MCKINSTRY PRACTICE MGT....................... 4 HILLHOUSE QUARRY GROUP................................ 2 WOODWARD AES PRESTWICK............................. 1

FOOTBALL RESULTS McCULLOCH RAIL 1 - QTS GROUP 7 MERCK 1 - WILLIAM DUNCAN & CO 2 FINAL QTS GROUP 4 - WILLIAM DUNCAN & CO 0 3RD/4TH PLACE PLAYOFF McCULLOCH RAIL 5 - MERCK 1

POINTS AWARDED 1ST PLACE - 10 POINTS, 2ND PLACE - 9 POINTS, 3RD PLACE - 8 POINTS ETC. TO 10TH PLACE - 1 POINT

Business Gateway Ayrshire is delighted to be hosting the launch event of Ayrshire Business Week 2017‌

Riding the Rollercoaster Running your own business can be a bit like riding a rollercoaster. Fear of starting out. Exciting. Scary.

Unpredictable. Exhilarating.

Join us to hear from our keynote speakers who will show you how to hang on tight and manage the twists and turns. Hear how Ayrshire business owners have survived the ups & downs, unpredictability and unknown.

So get your ticket, choose your seat, hang on tight and enjoy the ride...

Monday 9th October 9am – 1pm

A light buffet lunch will be served Cost: Free

For tickets, visit www.bgateway.com/ayrshire or call your local Business Gateway office: 01294 449944 (Irvine), 01563 576987 (Kilmarnock) or 01292 616349 (Ayr).

Dumfries House Cumnock, KA18 2NJ

CHAMBER NEWS

YOUR BUSINESS | AUTUMN 2017

DON’T FACE BUSINESS CHALLENGES ALONE; BUSINESS MENTORING CAN OFFER SOLUTIONS

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Ayrshire isn’t alone in facing employment challenges and similarly isn’t alone in how it tackles them.

Ayrshire Chamber in partnership with Scottish Chambers of Commerce and Scottish Enterprise provides today’s business owners with access to Mentors who come with their entrepreneurial and business background.

The service strives to match the most suited mentor to the mentee to allow the best opportunity for successful mentoring relationships to be made.

Martyn Jones, a sales director who retired from corporate life to further his career in voluntary mentoring and consultancy, is currently involved in the Business Mentoring programme as mentor and firmly believes in the value of the scheme.

He explained: “Ayrshire has employment challenges especially for the next generation and I firmly believe that much more focus on mentoring should be given.

“There are many businesses in Ayrshire that will never achieve their potential as they ‘don’t know what they don’t know’ and we have lots of very experienced business people here in Ayrshire underutilised who could help.

“It is a privilege for me to be a mentor and I appreciate the mentees allowing me into their business.”

Martyn has recently completed a programme with Carey Rowe of Ayrshirebased business International Summer School for Teens – www.issft.com They began working with each other in late spring of 2016 and met regularly to discuss Carey’s business.

He explained: “Carey had been trading for around 12 months when I met her. She was really well focused but not taking time out to anticipate outcomes or pitfalls/upsides.

I encouraged her to be more reflective and considered prior to embarking and launching herself ‘full steam ahead’ into the business without planning to either succeed or fail and putting together alternative plans.”

Carey feels the experience has left her and her business in better shape and better equipped to move forward.

She said: “The mentoring programme allowed me to see things from a different perspective. I think we now have better confidence in what we do, which is allowing us to grow successfully with excitement and enthusiasm.

“It has helped me grow in confidence as a business owner and helped develop my leadership, management and strategic skills.”

Rhona Brown, Business Mentoring Executive, believes Carey’s experience on the mentoring programme demonstrates just how successful it can be. She added: “A certain level of openness is required for the programme to be successful and Carey’s willingness to allow Martyn to work with her and her business gave him the chance to offer his experience to the benefit of both parties.”

If you are interested in finding out more about how the Business Mentoring programme could help you and your business, please contact Rhona or Lisa Stewart on 01292 678666.

YOU CAN FIND OUT MORE ABOUT BUSINESS MENTORING

by contacting Rhona Brown or Lisa Stewart at Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce on 01292 678666, or via email at rbrown@ayrshire-chamber.org / lstewart@ayrshire-chamber.org or visit

ayrshire-chamber.org/supporting-business

Rewarding you for championing your chamber

REFERRAL SCHEME WHAT'S IN IT FOR YOU? Being a member of Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce, you are part of the ultimate business network with over 800 members here in Ayrshire.

We’re always looking to recruit more members to strengthen the voice of business locally and create more business opportunities between members.

And this is where you come in.

We’re asking you to help by referring companies you know could benefit from the support available from us. When they join, we’ll reward you with a choice of free offers or discounts to help your business.

You can choose from: • A free ticket to our Annual Dinner or the Ayrshire Business Awards • 50% off a full page advert in ‘Your Business’ magazine • 50% off your annual membership fee (conditions apply) So what are you waiting for? Get out there and spread the word of Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce! Start referring now and #GrowAyrshireChamber The member who refers the most companies to Ayrshire Chamber will be named Chamber Champions. Last year’s winner was Wades Print (pictured) who were presented with their trophy at last year’s Ayrshire Business Awards by our Business Development Manager, Helen McBride.

Referring couldn’t be simpler, just head to the members and benefits section of our website www.ayrshire-chamber.org and fill out the details!

MEMBER NEWS

11 YOUR BUSINESS | AUTUMN 2017

IVORY HITS THE ROAD TO SHOW 3D PRINTING

Kilmarnock-based printing business, Ivory Solutions, have taken to the road to demonstrate the benefits and potential 3D printing can have for your business.

Owner Ian Ivory has taken the organisation’s latest offering out to businesses across Ayrshire to demonstrate its capabilities.

He dropped by the Chamber office in early August to give Val and the team a demonstration, which impressed everyone. Val said: “Ayrshire Chamber has been a customer of Ivory Solutions for a very long time and it was very interesting to see how 3D printing works and find out the potential opportunities it can have for our membership.”

That potential has already been spotted by Kilmarnock-based business Urquhart Opticians who have embarked on a collaboration with Ivory Solutions to develop 3D printing applications in optometry.

Peter Telfer of Urquhart Opticians explains: “The project is very much in its early stages, but we’re thrilled to be working with another local business to explore how this emerging technology can enhance our patient experience.

UNFORTUNATELY FOR THE VAL, THE SLIPPER DIDN'T FIT.

“When I met Ian earlier this year, we quickly realised the potential this technology could have for optometry. 3D technology has the potential to greatly augment this with bespoke frames, created to fit the patient perfectly by

considering every contour of your face shape.”

Ian added: “3D printing has advanced greatly and is now more accessible than ever before. The potential for this technology is huge and we are finding demand for 3D printers is growing in a wide range of sectors and industries. By speaking to Peter, we realised this could revolutionise how optometrists dispense frames, providing eyewear created specifically for the individual wearer.”

Ivory Solutions are hosting an Open Day on 3D printing at The Park Hotel on Friday 8th and Saturday 9th September at The Park Hotel, Kilmarnock.

PODIATRY SOLUTIONS Painful knees? Sore hips? Foot or Ankle Pain?

Are your aches and pains interfering with your training?

Your symptoms may be linked to feet! Poor mechanics in the lower limbs can cause aches and pains in the feet and further up the musculoskeletal (MSK) system.

Book an appointment today with MSK Podiatry Consultant Margaret Grace HCPC Registered: CH15454 0141 376 7871

07900 948 814

info@podiatrysolutions.co.uk

GLASGOW AND AYRSHIRE

www.podiatrysolutions.co.uk

MEMBER NEWS

CAMPBELL DALLAS IN AYRSHIRE 1 YEAR ON

Accountancy Firm of the Year, for the last three consecutive years (2017, 2016 & 2015), Campbell Dallas expanded further into Ayrshire with the opening of its Kilmarnock office in October 2016 upon the acquisition of W White & Co, one of Ayrshire’s well known, independent accountancy firms.

Campbell Dallas saw this as an excellent opportunity to not only be able to work more closely with existing clients in the Kilmarnock and Ayrshire area, but also to work with local businesses where there is demand for their entrepreneurial approach to providing business advice.

This was a strategic move for Campbell Dallas, who have four other offices across the country in Aberdeen, Glasgow, Perth and Stirling, with over 250 staff and partners.

It is an exciting time for Campbell Dallas in Kilmarnock as they build relationships with local business, along with existing and new clients. Recent client wins in the Kilmarnock office demonstrate their passion to deliver a high-quality service to all clients.

In July they recruited five new clients over the course of a single week. The Kilmarnock office has expanded its headcount with additional trainees and former Glasgow based member of staff,

The acquisition was an ideal fit, with White & Co having a diverse and high-quality owner managed business client base, providing a broad range of business advisory, tax, management accounting and insolvency services.

Nicola Campbell relocating to the Kilmarnock office.

Campbell Dallas will be active in the upcoming Ayrshire Business week and you can speak to them at their stand at the Connect for Growth B2B Exhibition and various other events. You can also get in touch directly with Karen Morrison or Nicola Campbell on 01563 536 319.

Winners of “Accountancy Firm of the Year”, 3 years in a row.

We help our clients’ businesses to grow by:

YOUR BUSINESS | AUTUMN 2017

• Understanding our clients’ key objectives, business and markets • Providing clever and innovative client solutions • Supporting them with over 250 staff and partners from offices across Scotland Karen Morrison Kilmarnock 01563 536 319 karen.morrison@campbelldallas.co.uk

www.campbelldallas.co.uk @CampbellDallas on Twitter Campbell Dallas on LinkedIn Accountancy Firm of the Year 2017, 2016 & 2015 Best Tax Practice in a Devolved Administration 2017

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Nicola Campbell Kilmarnock 01563 536 319 nicola.campbell@campbelldallas.co.uk

Clever Commercial Connected

CHAMBER NEWS

GIVE YOUR BUSINESS THE BOOSTBUSINESS IT NEEDS BOOSTS August 2017 - June 2018 Business Boosts, Ayrshire Chamber’s training calendar, has launched for its 2017-18 run and as always features a top band of trainers to help develop you and your business.

All training sessions are short, sharp and interactive and a great platform to boost you and your staff.

Ayrshire Chamber Events co-ordinator, Yvonne Munro, said: “I’m delighted with our 2017/18 Business Boost programme. We have a fantastic group of trainers, many of them have delivered training with us for a number of years, and we welcome some new ones to keep our series fresh.

“Keep an eye on our website to find out more details on the sessions we have coming up.”

knowledge for the benefit of others (members and non-members), on how to use/utilise the 2017 software/systems/devices and platforms etc."

DATE Hitchen, TITLE Jackie IT FACT

there is always a great variety of businesses there, and the discussions of how they aim to use Google and its tools like AdWords & TRAINING PARTNER Analytics are always really interesting."

Sign and be Heard Lucy, Bread and Butter Marketing

YOUR BUSINESS | AUTUMN 2017

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24th Aug Sign Language for Business “Business BoostBritish sessions are very hands-on. The 7th Sept Does your Business comply with Cyberaggress “We are delighted to be working with the environment allows for active engagement and (GDPR) Data Protection Law Ayrshire Chamber on this exciting programme discussion of theCustomer real issues faced by those in the 27th Sep Acquisition and Retention Alison Brown Consultancy of Business Boost.

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“Don’t be fooled that you need big expensive gear to create good video. Smartphones are regularly used by BBC TV journalists. They’ve even made full length TV documentaries using an iPhone. There’s never been a time when it has been as easy to shoot good video at almost no cost. Ken and I will be teaching some of the skills needed to do just that.”

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MEMBER NEWS

ESSENTRA KILMARNOCK LIMITED ANNOUNCES SCOTLAND’S FIRST XEROX iGEN 5 150 DIGITAL PRINTING PRESS Essentra Kilmarnock, formerly Ritchie’s, has announced the acquisition and installation of Scotland’s first Xerox iGen 5 150 digital press.

The new press will allow Essentra to move further into the digital market, expand product ranges and strengthen the company’s existing business offer to Scotland and the UK. Kilmarnock sire director Lorna Cowan said: “We are proud to have acquired and successfully installed the new press which will further expand the sites already impressive range of print and finishing capabilities.

YOUR BUSINESS | AUTUMN 2017

“We now have the capacity to print 9000 sheets per hour and will

14

ensure effective matching of Litho PMS colours as well as produce high quality brochures and bespoke products.”

Essentra has operated at our Kilmarnock facility for more than 50 years and over that time we have gained the reputation as a leading Scottish printing site. This new acquisition underlines our long term commitment to the community in

Ayrshire and re-affirms our leadership in the Scottish print sector.

The business currently employ 56 people on site and provide on time services for a large number of businesses and have the capability through our web presses to provide high volume printing on commercial products such as A4 letterheads, laser forms, carbonless sets, finished pads, stitched books and integrated products.

THE RESEARCH LOCKER CUSTOMER JOURNEY MAPPING APRIL 2017

“CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE IS THE NEW COMPETITIVE CUSTOMER ADVANTAGE” JOURNEY SUGGESTS THE MAPPING RESEARCH LOCKER

With today’s business London’s market research marketplaces are becoming agencies to Edinburgh’s increasingly, now, more than ever, financial services institutions. it’s important for businesses to He has returned to his native retain their existing customers SUMMARY CONTACT Ayrshire with a vision: To help grow their loyalty, and encourage businesses develop their WE USE CUSTOMER JOURNEY MAPS PHONE: 0800 0461local 759 TO VISUALISE AND HELP CLIENTS SCOTT@THERESEARCHLOCKER.COM them to become advocates for Customer Experience so as to UNDERSTAND THE CUSTOMER WWW.THERESEARCHLOCKER.COM COMPLAINT EXPERIENCE. your brand. develop sustainable, profitable business growth.

Against this backdrop, Customer Experience has become the new competitive battleground.

While many recognise the value in placing customers at the heart of their business, not all companies have the resource or expertise to do so. But The Research Locker, an Kilmarnockbased Customer Experience agency, is looking to change all that and is already helping local organisations to improve their current performances and encourage their customers to come back for more.

Its founder, Scott Davidson comes with a 20+ year career which has taken him from

Scott explains: “Many businesses do not know who their best customers are, what it costs to serve them or how satisfied they are. By bringing this data together, companies can improve the customer experience, grow loyalty & advocacy, and unlock new value streams.”

With Hospitality, Manufacturing & Local Authority clients already on board, The Research Locker is looking to have its own bright future. If you are interested in understanding how they can help your business, please get in touch with Scott scott@theresearchlocker.co.uk

15 YOUR BUSINESS | AUTUMN 2017

MEMBER NEWS

CHAMBER NEWS

YOUR BUSINESS | AUTUMN 2017

AND IT’S A GOODBYE FROM US…

16

Bowing out after three decades in Troon, Heather Barnes and Jenny Holford’s decision to call time on their much loved shop has opened the door for others to take over De Beaufort/ Present & Collect of Troon and make memories as it did for them.

stocked brands which offer quality with value.

The pair are now hoping that there would be an interested party to take over the running of the muchloved shop.

Heather also paid tribute to the support given to the business by the Chamber of Commerce: She added: “We would like to thank Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce for their endless help and advice over the years.

Heather explained: “We would love to see this happy, long established business continue in the town as a well-supported part of the establishment in a great town which enjoys local as well a strong visitor clientele.

“This creates an exciting variety of interest for the customer as we have consistently evolved the business with this in mind” “It is still lovely to hear ‘I love this shop’ ‘I just love coming in here’ etc. on a daily basis with now three generations of regular customers. We have always

A website was established many years ago and have been very successful selling all over the world. Facebook more recently has become an important part of keeping customers in touch.

“My only regret is not taking advantage of more of the benefits which were available. This independent support is so important, particularly to a small business whose proprietors have such varied commitments.”

Before the shop closes there will be a big Clearance Sale of Moorcroft Pottery & Enamels/ Elliot Hall Enamels and Corbridge Stoneware on the weekend of 7th to 10th September.

Making Your Business

Our Business GIRLS WITH GRIT PARTN E

Ayrshire Connects, a mentoring network 4 BUSIN R for female STEM (science, technology, ESS engineering and maths) and Construction students across Ayrshire College, organised a successful event this summer for young females.

Girls with Grit took place at the College’s Kilmarnock Campus to give girls and women the confidence to follow a STEM career path.

Everyone was inspired by what they heard from NASA’s Sarah Murray, the Keynote Speaker at Girls with Grit - the latest in the College’s #ThisAyrshireGirlCan campaign to tackle the gender gap in STEM. If you would like to sign up for the Ayrshire Connects mentoring group for 2017/18, please contact ayrshireconnects@ayrshire.ac.uk.

THE HIVE SUMMER SCHOOL

The fourth year of Ayrshire College’s summer programme at The HIVE for 15-18 year olds was a great success.

The programme is organised in partnership with East Ayrshire Council and South Ayrshire Council’s Employability and Skills teams, with the aim of keeping young people engaged during the break between leaving school and starting their next step.

Skills Development Scotland and Street League also contributed to the day-to-day delivery of the programme.

Summer student Stuart McCanse said about his experience “It’s been great having something to do over the summer. For anyone thinking of doing the programme next year, I’d say 100% go for it."

FOUNDATION APPRENTICESHIPS This year will be the first time that three Foundation Apprenticeship courses will run at Ayrshire College.

Foundation Apprenticeships are courses designed for S5 pupils to combine school learning, college learning and work experience. During the two year course (S5-S6) pupils will spend two afternoons a week at college.

The course also enables them to spend time at work placements with industry employers, exposing them early on to the world of work and employer expectations.

To find out more about these opportunities, visit http://www1. ayrshire.ac.uk/schools/foundation-apprenticeships/

CHAMBER NEWS

LAUNCH OF KING ROBERT THE BRUCE COURSE PARTNER 4 BUSIN ESS

Trump Turnberry officially opened its new golf course in June in front of VIP guests and members as the organisation continues its revamp of the South Ayrshire resort.

Named after King Robert the Bruce, the new golf course has been designed by world-renowned architect, Martin Ebert, who was also responsible for the highly acclaimed changes to the Championship Ailsa Course. The Ailsa officially reopened in June 2016 and has received rave reviews and the highest of accolades.

Eric F. Trump, Executive Vice President of The Trump Organization, said: “To know that the King of Scotland, Robert the Bruce, was born here at Turnberry Castle is something we’re incredibly proud of; therefore, it made sense to name this new course after a legendary Scottish Warrior.

“Turnberry itself boasts an incredibly rich history – from the birthplace of King Robert the Bruce, to the building of our iconic lighthouse by the family of famed author Robert Louis Stevenson, in addition to playing an

integral role with the Royal Air Force in both World Wars, Trump Turnberry continues to uphold an iconic legacy.”

“There was no question that Martin Ebert was the right person to re-design the amazing King Robert the Bruce. Martin is an exceptional architect with tremendous vision. The final product will be a course which, similar to its famous counterpart, will sit among the ranks of the top courses anywhere in the world.”

Martin Ebert commented: “Once again, it’s been an honour for Mackenzie & Ebert to work alongside The Trump Organization to create what will certainly be one of the top courses in Scotland and the UK. “The location of the links at Turnberry, right on such a tremendously rugged coastline, really elevates the playing experience for the golfer and heightens the challenges laid out in front of them.”

MEMBER NEWS

ALBION ENVIRONMENTAL LIMITED CELEBRATE OPENING OF NEW EXTENSION

Alasdair Meldrum, Director, Albion Environmental Ltd was delighted to welcome guests to the official opening of the new extension to their office earlier in the summer.

the construction work was carried out by Craig Clifford and his team from Ayrshire company CC Joinery.

Albion moved into these premises at 1 Damside over three years ago, but due to continued expansion and rapid growth the company quickly ran out of office space.

The original building was formally owned by the Ayr Gas Company and during the construction works we found the base for one of their chimneys. Half of the base has

The extension was designed by local architect Chris Stewart, CASA Design and

now been converted into steps leading into the building, with a feature Albion logo at the base of the steps.

YOUR BUSINESS | AUTUMN 2017

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MEMBER NEWS

BRIGHT NEW BEGINNINGS FOR AYRSHIRE BUSINESS opportunity to make a fresh start with Confida. It’s a brand new business but we bring over 35 years’ worth of facilities management experience between us, and some big ideas.

A brand new business dawn broke on the 1st of June for Irvine-based facilities management specialists Lorraine and Ian Murray.

“We’re already developing some really exciting strategic plans which will keep the high quality and personal touch we offer our clients, but also give us real scope for expansion.”

Following an asset transfer from Sercon Security Services Ltd owner Paul Gratton to Sercon’s wife and husband management team at the end of May, the Murrays hit the floor running with their new company, Confida FM Ltd.

The couple will be consolidating their existing commercial cleaning, security and property management service contracts, and new business plans have been drawn up which aim for significant growth across Scotland and the UK.

Lorraine Murray MBE, Confida FM Chief Executive, said, “It’s a wonderful

“There’s a new dynamic going on everyone is as excited and committed as

YOUR BUSINESS | AUTUMN 2017

PHYSIO REACHES OUT TO FELLOW CHAMBER MEMBER

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Largs-based Physiotherapy Clinic, Optimal Physio, has begun a partnership with Seamill Hydro Leisure to provide an enhancement to an already great value, local Leisure club package.

Leisure club members will receive a 10% discount off all consultations at the Physiotherapy clinic, based at Largs Yacht Haven and Optimal Physio will provide regular education sessions and information to members throughout the year both on-site and electronically.

Pamela Couper, director and lead Physiotherapist at Optimal Physio said: “We are delighted to launch this new partnership with Seamill Hydro. Our aim as a business is to get people active and keep them active. Leisure club members can seek professional, timely advice from our expert therapists on managing injuries and rehabilitation.”

“At Optimal Physio, we don’t want to stop you exercising and we work with you to find alternative ways you can continue to exercise, feel good and promote recovery; to allow you to become the best version of yourself.”

we are to fulfil the growth potential of Confida.”

Over 300 Sercon staff have been transferred to start work with their new employer on launch day and Lorraine is delighted to offer this consistency plus an ongoing commitment to her workforce, at the same time as getting strategic planning underway for the future.

She added: “I’m so pleased to be securing jobs in this part of Ayrshire, an area of high unemployment. Our own people are what make us a better kind of facilities management company and we know that they will carry on working above and beyond to deliver outstanding services for our current clients, and for new customers too.”

LOCAL BUSINESSES REWARDING CARERS North Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership along with participating businesses, have thanked all unpaid carers in the area with a unique scheme.

“That’s why the Carers Appreciation Card can make a difference - it is a small way of saying thank you and an opportunity for our carers to receive something back for everything they do.”

The Carers Card is available to all carers who are registered with the North Ayrshire Carers Centre, live in North Ayrshire and look after someone in North Ayrshire, regardless of age.

Over 350 carers have registered for their card entitling them to discounts, concessions and offers at a growing range of local shops and businesses who have pledged their support to build a caring community in North Ayrshire.

North Ayrshire Carers Champion, Christina Larsen said: “Without the right support, carers can face a real struggle so it is only right that we try to support them in any way that we can.

If you are a business who would like to get involved in building a caring community in North Ayrshire, contact North Ayrshire Carers Centre on 01294 311333 or email northayrshire. carers@unityenterprise.com

MEMBER NEWS 4 BUSI ER GRENFELL TOWER NESS HIGHLIGHTS NEED FOR FIRE RISK ASSESSMENTS

PARTN

The tragic loss of life from the Grenfell Tower disaster has far-reaching impact and highlights the need to undertake formal fire risk assessments of your premises.

Why Do I Need a Fire Risk Assessment?

Fire risk assessments are a legal requirement for anyone that owns property or is otherwise in control of commercial premises and other non-domestic premises, such as the common areas of multioccupied residential buildings.

Conducting risk assessments helps you prevent fires, keeps your property and employees safe, and increases the chances that your business will recover should a costly fire happen. Between 2006 and 2016, the average cost of a fire claim has increased from £5,550 to nearly £15,000, according to the Association of British Insurers.

All UK employers with five or more employees are required to keep a written record of their fire risk assessments. Whilst not required for smaller businesses, it is still considered best practice.

Who Completes the Fire Risk Assessment?

As an employer or someone responsible for a business or other non-domestic premises, you are responsible for undertaking and reviewing the fire risk assessment.

Failure to undertake a fire risk assessment or commission and assessor to do it for you could result in fines or imprisonment.

How Do I Undertake a Fire Risk Assessment?

Follow these five basic steps to undertake a fire risk assessment at your premises:

1. Identify fire hazards – determine how a fire could start, including fuel sources and ignition sources.

2. Identify who is at risk – analyse whether any particular group is more at risk than others.

3. Evaluate and then remove or reduce the risks.

4. Record your findings, prepare an emergency plan and provide training.

5. Review and update the fire risk assessment annually.

For more information on fire safety and to ensure that you have the most effective cover, contact MacKay Corporate Insurance Brokers today on 01292 611 028 or email info@mackaycorporate-brokers.com

Independent & Professional Looking after all your commercial and personal insurance needs

Despite the fact that it has been a requirement for most UK businesses to have a Fire Risk Assessment since the Fire Precautions Regulations 1997, many companies still fail to comply. Businesses are regularly being prosecuted with substantial fines and custodial sentences occurring.

The cost of fire is also rising. The tragic loss of life from the Grenfell Tower disaster highlights the need to undertake formal fire risk assessments of your premises.

Considering that property is often your largest asset, it pays to be properly insured.

Ayr | Kilmarnock W: www.mackaycorporate-brokers.com E: info@mackaycorporate-brokers.com T: 01292 611 028 MacKay Corporate Insurance Brokers is a trading name of Alan R MacKay & Co. Ltd who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. FCA registration number 305677

YOUR BUSINESS | AUTUMN 2017

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MINISTERIAL SEAL OF APPROVAL Scottish Government Minister Jamie Hepburn MSP visited Ashleigh Building to catch up on the work of the Developing Young Workforce Ayrshire group.

Tasked with reducing youth unemployment in Ayrshire, the DYW team been working hard to establish better working links and relationships between education providers and the public and private sector whilst encouraging employers to recruit young people.

With Scottish Government funding secured for a further three years the team met with the Employability and Training Cabinet Minister to report on their success so far.

Managing Director, Ashleigh Building and Chair of DYW Ayrshire Group, speaking about the success so far of the initiative, said: “We have established a strong brand in Ayrshire supported by a diverse board and steering group, adding real value in employer engagement with education through work placements, curriculum links, engagement

with teachers and a number of other more recognised routes.

“DYW Ayrshire have been particularly successful in obtaining funding and delivering innovative activity over a number of projects and these are specifically designed to help develop the employability skills of our young people.

“The recent announcement of the ongoing funding from Scottish Government for the DYW project allows us to go forward with our future plans in confidence that we will continue to make a difference.

Mr Hepburn praised the work of DYW Ayrshire and encouraged businesses in the area to get in touch to find out about the role they can play in improving a young person’s employability opportunities and tackle the country’s youth unemployment rate.

He said: “The work of groups like DYW Ayrshire is helping with this progress by working to close the gap in youth unemployment in the area.

“It is providing young people with vocational learning options and making sure employers are

working with schools to encourage enterprise and business skills from an early point.

“This type of approach will help employers in Ayrshire meet their current and future workforce needs and identify skills gaps, which will help to boost the local economy. I would encourage all local businesses and young people to get in touch with the DYW Ayrshire group and see how they can benefit from this support.

“It forms part of our overall commitment to building a skilled and educated workforce which includes our Modern Apprentices and a new Flexible Workforce Development Fund which will help to up-skill or re-skill employees.”

WHAT IS MARKETPLACE AND HOW CAN YOU GET INVOLVED

YOUR BUSINESS | AUTUMN 2017

Marketplace is delivered by Skills Development Scotland and Developing the Young Workforce and is an online tool connecting schools and colleges with business.

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Created to improve engagement between employers and education to help young people have greater awareness of the career options available to them.

It’s simple to use and allows employers to engage and get involved with schools and colleges by offering to talk to pupils, host a workshop, visit the school. Marketplace helps you connect by posting your opportunity on

01292 678666

their online noticeboard for schools and colleges to get in touch. It’s that straightforward.

Here's some of the benefits: • Young people will benefit from your knowledge and expertise – you can help them develop the attitude and skills employers need • You can inspire young people to work for you or in your sector • You can raise awareness of who you are and what you do • It’s great for staff development. Employees involved will gain a sense of achievement in helping young people.

Developing the Young Workforce Ayrshire Project Executive, Claire Baird, added: “It’s now even easier for employers to become part of the education curriculum and help shape our young people’s employment prospects by opening them up to opportunities before them.

“Marketplace helps build young people’s job readiness and increases their career options.

At the same time, employers can help shape young talent, address skills gaps and source their future workforce.”

To find out more, please visit www.ourskillsforce.co.uk/marketplace

INFO@DYWAYRSHIRE.COM

AN ‘INSPIRATIONAL’ NIGHT AT THE SIR TOM HUNTER CHALLENGE Young entrepreneurs from Loudoun Academy beat off a host of Ayrshire top schools to collect the top prize of £5,000 after wowing judges in the final of the Sir Tom Hunter Challenge shortly before the summer break.

Loudoun Academy came up with the fantastic idea of turning photos of people into plastic models. These miniature representations could be used on wedding cakes and the prize money will be used to move their business to the next level.

Sir Tom Hunter, entrepreneur and philanthropist, praised the pupils’ efforts and encouraged businesses in the area to support young people’s entrepreneurial spirit.

He said: “Ayrshire’s young people have again stepped up to the mark creating

Loudoun Academy - the winners of the Sir Tom Hunter Challenge

business ideas that any entrepreneur would be proud.

“We need to redouble our efforts to engage all young people in the world of work and educate them for a world that

is changing at an unparalleled pace – teachers can’t bear all the burden of this, business must play its role and I’d recommend all Ayrshire businesses sign up to Founders4Schools to do just that.

BLOG.DYWAYRSHIRE.COM

YOUR BUSINESS | AUTUMN 2017

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ASSESSING THEIR FUTURE! For the second year running, GSK opened their doors to S3 pupils from three North Ayrshire Academies to show them what it’s like to go through their apprentice assessment centre.

Supported by current apprentices and staff, pupils from Largs, Kilwinning, and Ardrossan Academies were given advice on interview and presentation techniques, along with a practical task changing gaskets on a pipe rig, and a team-based exercise which highlighted communication, reasoning, and leadership skills.

Mike O’Sullivan, GSK Irvine Site Director commented: “GSK is passionate about supporting the next generation and inspiring new talent. At our Irvine manufacturing site, we have a well-established apprenticeship programme across a range of disciplines.

We recognise the value of apprenticeships as employers, but also to students looking at their career options.

“This is the second time we have run a Mock Assessment Event for local students which helps them develop real life skills, as they get the opportunity to experience an interview, group scenario test and practical assessment in a safe environment. As our team shares techniques, such as the STAR approach to answering interview questions, and provide constructive feedback to each individual student – it really helps them to develop, and build their employability skills. Skills for life that will ultimately help them secure an apprenticeship, a university place or job in the future.

“As a local employer, it was a great opportunity to see the quality of future candidates which are testament to the strength of our local schools and teachers.”

Paul Binns, Technological Studies teacher from Ardrossan Academy added: “Thanks so much for an amazing opportunity for our students. I also really enjoyed the day.”

The DYW team are already looking forward to working with GSK again in the upcoming academic year to offer this fantasic experience to another three schools in North Ayrshire, and thanks to all at GSK who have made this opportunity possible.

JOHN IMPRESSES ON ARRAN PLACEMENT

YOUR BUSINESS | AUTUMN 2017

Ardrossan Academy pupil John Galloway joined up with the Health Facilities Scotland team as they carried out maintenance work on medical equipment at Lamlash Hospital on Arran.

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disinfectors at the Dental unit in Lamlash Hospital. The work, conducted over the week, included getting the test equipment into the department, unpacking and setting up of test kit used for the measurement of temperatures within the machines, as well as the actual tests.

Murray Galloway, Validation Engineer, at Health Facilities Scotland explained: “John “During testing he was asked to verify the conducted himself very well at Lamlash calibration of the test equipment against the Hospital, and was a big hit with the staff machines being tested, and demonstrated an there. He was keen to get involved in the work understanding of the calibration process and being carried out, and eager to find out what how we transfer this to the tested machines. and why we were doing too.

He recorded information from both the test “This was a trip to conduct annual validation equipment and the machines, for later use in the Annual report. tests on two surgical instrument washer-

“To complete the experience, I ‘tested’ his understanding of the process at the end, asking him to explain the wash program, the temperatures involved, what constituted a pass or a failed test, and how we transfer calibration. With so much new information, he showed a good understanding of the whole process, which demonstrated he was paying attention throughout.”

BLOG.DYWAYRSHIRE.COM

ARDROSSAN PUPILS ‘TAPAS’ OF THE CLASS Hospitality pupils from S4 worked alongside Garfield’s tapas bar in Ardrossan to plan, prepare and host a staff tapas buffet lunch raising money for the Ayrshire Hospice in the process.

Darren Fisher from Garfield’s lent his expertise to help the learners create a selection of tapas dishes, which they prepared and cooked for around 35 staff members.

The staff enjoyed their wide selection of tapas from Garlic Mushrooms to Chorizo, Black Pudding and Goats Cheese. The event in total raised £115 including a raffle.

Ron Meikle, Ayrshire Hospice, said: “Garfield’s Tapas & Wine Bar in Ardrossan have been excellent supporters in aid of the Ayrshire Hospice. The local restaurant regularly raises funds through the hospice collection cans and Terramundi pots on display in their venue.

They also raised over £2,400 last year when the team completed a sponsored climb of Goatfell in fancy dress.”

Earlier in the year, Garfield’s also held a tapas fundraising event following work that they had completed with pupils from Ardrossan Academy. Darren had been working with the pupils for a number of weeks and the pupils prepared a variety of tapas dishes, sold tickets to the lunch to staff at the school and organised a raffle. The event raised £114.94 over one lunchtime.

Fourth Year pupil Lewis Austin managed to secure a week’s work placement in the restaurant.

He said: “I enjoyed making and trying foods that I had never had before. I think the event helped me to build confidence in my own skills, and the work placement Garfields offered me taught me how to interact with different customers. I also got to see what life is like as a chef, which is great as I hope to be a chef when I leave school.”

YOUR BUSINESS | AUTUMN 2017

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PUTTING THE ‘ENGINE’ INTO ‘ENGINEERING’!

As a World-leading provider of aviation jet engines, GE Caledonian can offer fantastic career opportunities to the young people of Ayrshire. Through their apprenticeship programme, school leavers can study to become a fully-qualified maintenance engineer, as well as careers in finance, training, and HR.

YOUR BUSINESS | AUTUMN 2017

DYW AYRSHIRE HIT THE ROAD!

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The schools may have been enjoying the summer holidays but the DYW Ayrshire team were out on the road, visiting different towns and villages across Ayrshire spreading their message.

Our mission was to spread the word on Developing the Young Workforce, making those in the local business community aware of what DYW is and most

The engineering pathway was the focus of the recent STEM Woman in Engineering day, held on the 23rd June at the facility in Prestwick.

The event was the brainchild of Clare Gillam, Graduate Customer Technical Program Engineer, and consisted of a series of activities and a tour around the hugely impressive overhaul facility.

S1 pupils from Prestwick Academy, James Hamilton Academy, and Kyle Academy took part in a competition to build a bottle rocket and a challenge to build the best Lego tower within a time limit. The highlight was the tour, however, with the scale and complexity of the work capturing the girls’ imaginations.

One pupil from Prestwick Academy said: “On Friday it was a really good day. We went round the workshop and seen what they do with the GENX engine. They clean it and take it apart,

see what’s wrong with it, fix it and then put it all back together. I especially liked the activities, the making of the rocket and setting it off was amazing. The Lego challenge was my favourite because we learnt how to structure it and to keep it up right to not fall over. This is really good for girls to get an experience to be an engineer, it was really fun and I would love to do it again.”

Amanda McCrorie, Design & Technology teacher at Prestwick added: “I would just like to add that this was an extremely well organised event. The pupils had a great day out and found each task beneficial. Seeing women working in engineering really inspired them and made them think about their future career possibilities.

Everyone at GE was very focused on the pupils and always engaging them in conversations. The pupils felt very valued and were very thankful for this amazing opportunity GE gave them.”

Thanks again to all of the staff at GE Caledonian who took time from the schedules to make the pupils feel welcome and offered them such a wonderful and unique experience.

importantly how they can get involved. We took We are planning to continue our road trips over to the streets in our DYW branded t-shirts and the next few months and would love to hear from popped into 140 shops, cafes, solicitors, vets you if you would like us to visit a town near you! and estate agents, swapping deliciously packed sweetie cones for contact details of the premises.

This has so far proved beneficial, allowing the team to greater appreciate the variety and number of businesses which exist in the area. In addition it has provided us with a wider contact base to send further information to with regards to work experience placements and engaging with schools. We hope this will encourage more businesses to get involved in the forthcoming year.

We have been as far down as Pebbles Spa and Leisure in Lendalfoot when touring the Girvan and Maybole area on a rainy day in June. The weather proved slightly better the following week in Cumnock but we were then back to the familiar grey skies in Dalry. Our jaunts also took us to sunny Stewarton on a glorious summer’s day in July.

BLOG.DYWAYRSHIRE.COM

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE LATEST GRADUATES FROM PROJECT SEARCH

East Ayrshire’s Project SEARCH interns have successfully graduated from the programme after 36 weeks of practical work experience in University Hospital Crosshouse.

skills they gain during their placements is a great boost to their confidence and very often helps them to gain employment. We are proud to be a part of such a successful, inclusive project.”

The programme was first set up in the Cincinnati Children’s Hospital in Ohio and began as a result of a need to recruit staff for jobs that had a high Now in its fifth year, Project SEARCH aims to help young people with learning disabilities and staff turnover. / or those on the autistic spectrum find and keep The eight interns embarked on the 800-hour a job. It is a partnership between NHS Ayrshire & placement, and gained practical experience in a Arran, East Ayrshire Council, Ayrshire College and number of areas of the hospital. They worked for other partners. a total of ten weeks in each area.

Patricia Leiser, Human Resources Director, said: The interns were placed in real life work “It’s always wonderful to see the Project SEARCH environments and took part in regular progress interns graduate with us. The experience and meetings to define their career goal and plan

necessary steps to achieve it. At their graduation ceremony on Friday 9 June each intern received a certificate of completion and a gift voucher, kindly donated by Ayrshire College.

Any employers who are interested in recruiting a SEARCH intern should email sandramurphy1@nhs.net.

A TASTE OF UNIVERSITY LIFE University of the West of Scotland, Ayr Campus, held their annual taster event at the end of the summer school term. Sixty young people from Ayrshire schools were invited along to get a taster of University life.

The young people were also given the opportunity to participate in a Q&A session with current students. They then heard from the Admissions team and many were surprised to hear that there is more than one route into university.

However, the most enjoyable part of the day was During their visit pupils were given a guided tour when the young people got to participate in one of the campus and visited everything from the of seven interactive workshops. The choice was library to the student accommodation. vast and covered everything from engineering Alison Hillis who organised the event on behalf and nursing to education, business and technical theatre. of University of West of Scotland commented: “It was a pleasure to see so many young people Highlights included a trip to the state of the art from Ayrshire secondary schools at the UWS Ayr mock hospital ward to meet the University’s Campus in June this year. resident robots. The technology is so advanced that the robots can be programmed to have a This annual event is a great opportunity for heart attack, walk, talk, urinate and even give the young people to experience student life birth. The technical theatre workshop was equally and participate in workshops in a broad range as exciting and those in this group recorded a of subject areas like Nursing, Engineering, television show in the University’s own TV studio.

Marketing, Performance and Education. This Not to be outdone the engineering and physics event is a brilliant way to help young people make informed decisions about their future.” session challenged pupils to build a vessel which

would protect an egg when dropped from a flight of stairs. The laws of physics proved rather interesting with quite a few eggs not surviving the drop.

YOUR BUSINESS | AUTUMN 2017

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EVENTS DIARY DATES Providing you the opportunity to meet contact, expand your knowledge and grow your business BUSINESS BOOSTS DOES YOUR BUSINESS COMPLY WITH (GDPR) DATA PROTECTION LAW 7th September 8.30-11.00am Venue: Ayrshire Chamber Board Room Facilitated by Cyberaggress

£40 CONNECT @ THE HAC (HARBOUR ARTS CENTRE) 8th September 10.00- 11.30am Venue: Harbour Arts Centre Supported by Ayrshire Post, Kilmarnock Standard, Irvine Herald & Kilwinning Chronicle

FREE PLATINUM LUNCH WITH GUEST SPEAKER FRASER DOHERTY MBE (SUPERJAM) AND AGM 2017 14th September 12.30-2.30pm Venue: Carlton Hotel, Prestwick

£18 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING WITH GUEST SPEAKER PATRICK WIGGINS 14th September 3.00-4.30pm Venue: The Carlton Hotel Sponsor: Browning the Bakers

FREE

BEHIND THE SCENES @ FMC BIOPOLYMER (UK) LTD, GIRVAN 20th September 11.00-1.30pm Venue: FMC Biopolymer (UK) Ltd

£15 BUSINESS BOOSTS CUSTOMER ACQUISITION AND RETENTION 27th September 8.30-11.00am Venue: Ayrshire Chamber Board Room Facilitated by Alison Brown Consultancy

£40 MOD EVENT 28th September 5.30- 7.00pm Venue: Aeronautical Engineering Training Academy, Ayr Campus, Ayrshire College

FREE BUSINESS BOOSTS ACCOUNTANCY FOR THE NON ACCOUNTANT 4th October 8.30-11.00am Venue: Ayrshire Chamber Board Room Facilitated by Campbell Dallas

£40

AYRSHIRE BUSINESS WEEK 2017 9th – 13th October Full program on page 6 BUSINESS BOOSTS- IT’S GOOD TO TALK…. MEDIA & CAMERA SKILL TRAINING 26th October 8.30-11.00am Venue: Ayrshire Chamber Board Room Facilitated by Applied PR

£40 TICK TALK @ THE SCOTTISH MARITIME MUSEUM, IRVINE 1st November 5.00-7.00pm Host: Scottish Maritime Museum Supporting sponsor: Puffers Café

£15 BUSINESS BOOSTS- WHO TO TALK TO AND WHAT TO SAY 10th November 8.30-11.00am Venue: Ayrshire Chamber Board Room Facilitated by Ocean Blue Consultancy

£40 AYRSHIRE TALKS LUNCH WITH MALCOM ROUGHEAD, CEO VISIT SCOTLAND 10th November 12-2.00pm Venue: Waterside Hotel Seamill Sponsored by: Visit Scotland

£18

BEHIND THE SCENES BREAKFAST @ STV2 15th Nov 8.30-10.00am Venue: University West of Scotland, Craigie Campus Supporting sponsor: STV2

FREE A PLATINUM AUDIENCE WITH SIR TOM HUNTER 20th November 6.30-10.00pm Venue: Dumfries House Sponsored by QTS and Crucial Drinks

£42 PER TICKET £375 FOR A TABLE OF 10 CONNECT AFTERHOURS @ HARTFIELD HOUSE AYR 23rd November 5.30-7.00pm Venue: Hartfield House, Ayr Supported by Ayrshire Post, Kilmarnock Standard, Irvine Herald & Kilwinning Chronicle

FREE BUSINESS BOOSTS THE IMPORTANCE OF THE # TWITTER & INSTAGRAM 29th November 8.30-11.00am Venue: Ayrshire Chamber Board Room Facilitated by Skocia Web Design

£40

CHAMBER’S CHRISTMAS @ CENTRAL PARK 30th November 5.00-7.30pm Venue: Ayr Central Shopping Centre Christmas market, Santa’s Grotto, discounted shopping and lots more to enjoy with the whole family.

To book a stall at the Christmas Market, call Yvonne on 01292 678666 (places limited)

FREE BUSINESS BOOSTS-MAKE GREAT BUSINESS VIDEOS WITH SMARTPHONE 7th December 8.30-11.00am Venue: Ayrshire Chamber Board Room Facilitated by Tosh Lubek & Ken McGaffin

£40 CONNECT @ DEAN CASTLE VISITOR CENTRE 8th December Venue: Dean Castle Visitor Centre, Kilmarnock Supported by Ayrshire Post, Kilmarnock Standard, Irvine Herald & Kilwinning Chronicle

FREE

YOUR BUSINESS | AUTUMN 2017

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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NE M W

EMBER S

#BUYMSH APPEAL Ayr Ms Maxine Allan 07917 577463 www.buymsh.com

BOSUNS TABLE Largs Mrs Marshona Pendrill 01475 689198 www.bosunstable-largs.co.uk

ISLAND GOLF HOLIDAYS Near Maybole Mr David Sledmere 01655 887087 www.islandgolfholidays.com

SASSY'S Irvine Miss Sara Bingham 01294272797 www.sassysirvine.co.uk

A&L MECHANICAL INSTALLATIONS LIMITED Galston Mr James McRobert 01563822555 www.a-l-mechanicalinstall.co.uk

BRODICK CASTLE GARDEN & COUNTRY PARK Isle of Arran Mr Chris Mills 01770 302202 nts.org.uk

LOCHINVER GUEST HOUSE Ayr Mr Sinclair Williamson 01292 265086 www.lochinverguesthouse.co.uk

SHOPPER ANONYMOUS SCOTLAND Saltcoats Mr Stuart Shepherd 07532 699011 www.shopperanonymous.co.uk

ACORN FURNITURE WORKSHOP Ayr Mr George Nish 01292 513066

CAMPBELL DALLAS LLP Kilmarnock Mr Donald Boyd 01563 536 319 www.campbelldallas.co.uk

MAUREEN JOHNSTONE ASSOCIATES Prestwick Mrs Maureen Johnstone 07740 250015

SPRAYTECH SCOTLAND LTD Ayr Mr William Parker 07973 344083 www.spraytechscotland.co.uk

ACTIVE OFFICE SCOTLAND LTD Kilmarnock Mr Alan Miller 0800 269 429 www.activeoffice.net

CARRICK CENTRE (THE) Maybole Ms Andrea Hutchison 01655 883222 www.carrickcentre.co.uk

ALLOWAY ROSE Ayr Mrs Sharon Stirrat 07825 292222 www.allowayrose.co.uk

CULZEAN CASTLE & COUNTRY PARK Maybole Mr Stuart Maxwell 01655 884455 www.culzeanexperience.org

AYRSHIRE COMMERCIAL PROPERTY Kilmarnock Mr Stuart Murray 07534 323180

DEKORS Irvine Ms Julie Govan 01294 278691 www.dekors.co.uk

AYRSHIRE WASTE MANAGEMENT LTD Tarbolton Mr Gordon Haran 01292 541427

ESSENTRA PRINT & PACKAGING Kilmarnock Mr David Joyce 01563 528711 www.essentra.com

BETH BROWNINGS BAKERY Kilwinning Mr Barry MacSween 01294 552342 BEULAH'S BAR & RESTAURANT LTD Girvan Mr Michael Forbes 01465 710700 www.woodlandbayhotel.co.uk

EVENTS BY MAREE Prestwick Miss Maree Fuller 07462227806 www.eventsbymaree.co.uk EVENTSBYJS Ayr Mr Johnny Stewart 07712 285583

OLD BYRE VISITORS CENTRE (THE) Machrie Ms Lorna Mansfield 01770 840227 www.oldbyre.co.uk ORBITAL ACCESS LTD Prestwick Mrs Caroline McIntyre 01292429111 www.orbital-access.com P-BLOCK LTD East Kilbride Mr Keith Brady 01355 229446 www.p-block.co.uk PRAETORIAN PROTECTION & INVESTIGATIONS Drongan Mr David Scobie 01292 591060 www.praetorianprotection.co.uk

STORM 360 LTD Ayr Mr Gary Clark 01292 264415 www.storm360.co.uk STRADA AUTORE FILMING Paisley Ms Angela McKillop 0141 404 6214 TOMMAX SERVICES LTD Ayr Mr Craig Maxwell 01292 283344 VENTURAYR LTD Ayr Ms Karen Speirs 01292 267343 www.venturayr.co.uk WEST SIPHONICS LTD Newmilns Mr Jim Wilson 01560 321111 www.westsiphonics.co.uk

RESEARCH LOCKER (THE) Dundonald Mr Scott Davidson 0800 0461 759 www.theresearchlocker.co.uk

WHITEHIRST LIMITED Dundonald Mr Michael Docherty 07454 922797 https://yakk.io

ROXBURGH GROUP Troon Ms Jacqui Hillan 01292 314313 www.jcroxburgh.com

WOODLAND BAY HOTEL Girvan Mr Michael Forbes 01465 710700 www.woodlandbayhotel.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.

27 YOUR BUSINESS | AUTUMN 2017

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