Your Ayrshire Business Summer 2013

your

business yrshire

SUMMER 2013 ÂŁ2

the magazine of ayrshire chamber of commerce and industry

Inside:

ayrshirechamber of commerce and industry

From Russia with Love: Page 4 Ayrshire’s A-List: Page 5 Creating a world first: Page 11

Ayrshire

Busy times at Chamber!

contacts Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Suite 1005, Glasgow Airport, Prestwick KA9 2PL Email: enquiries@ayrshire-chamber.org Web: www.ayrshire-chamber.org Tel: 01292 678666 PRESIDENT Willie Mackie CHIEF EXECUTIVE

Valerie Russell

DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

Helen McBride

magazine

Where have the first five months of the year gone apart from the calendar Chief Executive: Valerie Russell telling us we have had Spring and are now moving into Summer?

THE Chamber Team has been busy with: a raft of events, launching new services and campaigning for better opportunities for our young people, to name but a few.

Editorial Content: lbruce@ayrshire-chamber.org

Design, Typesetting & Publisher: stuart.glasgownews@gmail.com

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.

Published by West of Scotland Media on behalf of Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce & Industry 2013. No part of this magazine may be copied, scanned or reproduced without the express permission of the Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce.

The views expressed in editorial and/or advertising in “Your Ayrshire Business” are not necessarily those of the Editorial Committee of Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce & Industry. Articles submitted for publication will be considered at the Committee’s discretion and may be subject to editing. Publication is not guaranteed.

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your ayrshire business summer 2013

Member activities so far in 2013 included the Annual Dinner, quoted as ‘the best ever’ by many. Congratulations, again, to Woodward AES Prestwick and The Cookschool who both lifted Business Excellence Awards on the night.

Will Dowson, Agent for the Bank of England Scotland, met members to discuss business conditions in the region. Representatives of both the YES Campaign and Better Together addressed audiences as part of their campaign road shows. The Chamber’s role is to ensure businesses get the best possible information before the referendum on 18th September 2014.

The Chamber had the opportunity to participate in the recent visits of the Scottish Parliament’s Local Government and Regeneration Committee, currently undertaking inquiry into public services reform and the Sir Ian Wood Commission for Developing Scotland's Young Workforce. Both events ensure we are getting the voice of business heard.

Having listened to member’s requests we held a couple of ‘active’ events including Chamber Bowls and Chamber Kicks 5 aside football, more on page 23. Keeping on the active theme, golf and archery will be on offer on our annual ‘overseas’ visit “AIM for Arran” on 19th June.

Call to action – the Chamber is doing its utmost to the raise the profile of Ayrshire and Ayrshire businesses but we need your help!

The British Chamber Awards, now in its 10th year, is open for entries. I encourage members to have a look at the categories on www.chamberawards.co.uk. Deadline for entries 28th June. Scotland is judged as a region with finalists going on to the national final in London.

Ayrshire entries will also be considered for the Ayrshire Business Awards in October – so why not enter them both now?

We were delighted to welcome Cabinet Secretary Fiona Hyslop to the launch of Ayrshires Famous People, read more on page 5. With over 600 downloads already - have you got yours? - including New Zealand and Canada we are putting Ayrshire firmly on the map.

Tourism related businesses are encouraged to register with the new online resource www.ayrshire-arran.org and businesses can download the Ayrshire and Arran ‘swoosh’ logo from www.ayrshire-chamber.org/brandtoolkit.asp to use on any promo materials – together we can make a difference.

As we wait for Summer to arrive in full, planning is well underway for a full programme of events, the Chamber Training Academy and of course the Ayrshire Business Week and Ayrshire Business Awards in the Autumn. We are also looking forward to the new Ayrshire College officially opening its doors in August.

Please give me a call, if you would like to discuss any of the above, or the Chamber in general.

Val Russell, Chief Executive 01292 678666

MSP helps launch new workshops CUNNINGHAME South MSP Margaret Burgess helped mark the completion of the first phase of a project helping create new workshops and jobs on the former NACCO site in Irvine.

The Ailsa Road new-build project is creating flexible, high specification facilities which will provide excellent workshop space for new and existing small businesses in the area.

Irvine Bay Regeneration Co., recently announced that it had secured £5.2 million of extra Government funding to help with some key regeneration projects – including £1.2 million for a second phase of work at Ailsa Road.

Margaret Burgess, MSP said: “I am delighted to welcome the completion of the first phase of this development. It is great to see the additional Scottish Government funding for Irvine Bay projects translating into real, visible local developments, with a first tenant already secured for the Ailsa Road new-build. Irvine and North Ayrshire

Callerton

are very much ‘open for business’!

Patrick Wiggins, Chief Executive of Irvine Bay Regeneration Company, said: “This is another

Poggenpohl

example of creating opportunities for local and incoming businesses by providing them with modern, purpose-built space.”

J S Geddes Collection

U.K. Kitchen Retailer of the Year 2013 Commission your kitchen from the industry’s leading company

10/12 West Netherton Street, Kilmarnock KA1 4BU Tel: 01563 530 838 Hayes Garden Land. Tarbolton Road, Symington, Ayrshire KA1 5PD Tel: 01563 831 340

www.jsgeddes.com Both showrooms open 7 days your ayrshire business summer 2013

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a i s s u R m o fr . . . e v o L h wit

by Nick White, A.D.Rattray Whisky Experience & Whisky Shop

“THE British Chamber of Commerce (BCC) picked twelve companies in the UK, from many applicants, to join EasyJet on their inaugural flight to Moscow as part of a trade mission to Russia. AD Rattray was very fortunate to be chosen as an example of a company already trading with Russia.

Nick White, Managing Director of AD Rattray, flew to Gatwick courtesy of EasyJet, who sponsored and organised the event. The airline was celebrating winning the new scheduled route from Gatwick to Moscow and their first listing in the Financial Times 100.

So it was party time!

It was bitterly cold and snowing in Moscow and first impressions were of grey, uniform buildings and lots of cars parked by the roadside.

We stayed in the opulent Ritz Carlton near Red Square, where a gift awaited me - a traditional bearskin hat (fake) with a note, “From Russia with Love”.

Our guided tour of Red Square was slightly disappointing, as a lot of building works were

going on and some of it was very touristy. At Club Petrovich we enjoyed a traditional dinner and entertainment, followed by drinks on the rooftop bar of the The Ritz Carlton – the most expensive in the world - but what a view of Red Square!

Next morning we headed for the British Embassy in Moscow for a meeting with business advisors. It was very interesting to hear the issues and expectations of trading with Russia. The Easy Jet Chief Executive, Carolyn McCall, and her staff joined us for lunch and a press conference in the Embassy.

After lunch we visited Bunker 42 Cold War Museum. This is 17 floors below ground level and really felt like a Bond movie scene.

Only one small elevator taking just 5 people served the bunker which was a maze of

New Self Invest Service MUNRO Partnership, Chartered Financial Planners, have recently launched a new online service Munro Self Invest, which allows people to manage their own investment portfolios.

The launch was prompted by recent rule changes governing how financial advice is paid for. Financial advice has now moved to a fee basis, with commission being abolished. This has had the following implications: • 43 million people in the UK will be unable to pay for financial advice • 14% of adults are unwilling to pay a fee for financial advice.

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• Advice for smaller funds may now be expensive Robin Dale, Investment Director, at the Munro Partnership Ltd commented “We are always delighted to advise new clients and any initial meeting always comes at no obligation or cost. However, Self Invest may provide better value for some investors and, as such, this effectively means that no client will ever be turned away without some form of solution.”

Some of the key benefits are; • Low cost – Discounted initial charges on all investments • Control - Online trading and

tunnels and felt like a submarine. The noise of the metro trains above us was quite disconcerting. Staff wore full Russian army uniform, but just for fun! Here we had more talks about doing business in Russia and then dinner with entertainment from traditional Russian singers and dancers.

I will be forever grateful to EasyJet and BCC for inviting me as I found it very useful to see the market firsthand. I took a selection of new whisky product samples for our Distributor. The Russian market continues to grow with strong demand for single malts and premium products. However, Moscow is a pretty grim place in the winter – you really need those bearskin hats!”

The two-day mission, organised in partnership with easyJet and the RussoBritish Chambers of Commerce, allows Chamber businesses from across the UK to boost trading links with Russia. Commenting, Dr Adam Marshall, Director of Policy and External Affairs, said: “Export links between the UK and Russia are growing rapidly, and with the Sochi Winter Olympics taking place next year, this is the perfect time for British businesses to seize export opportunities and build relationships with contacts in this part of the world. At a time when driving an exportled recovery is crucial to the UK’s economic success, the BCC is passionate about helping British businesses break into emerging markets and take their products and services abroad.”

valuations • Flexible – Monthly or lump sum savings possible • Informative – Up to date fund information and news • Choice – Over 1,600 funds to invest in and ready made portfolios • Plan – Save for your own or your child’s future • Invest – Potential to beat inflation and cash returns • Access – Withdraw funds at short notice • Consolidate – Transfer existing investments onto the platform For more information please visit www.munroselfinvest.co.uk or call 01292 269909.

AYRSHIRE’S A-LIST THE ‘Ayrshire’s Famous People’ book detailing the county’s greatest people is now available online.

The digital project – created and funded by the Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce and Industry - was officially launched by Scots Culture Secretary Fiona Hyslop in April and will be published on Glow, the Scottish schools’ national intranet. That means all 2800 schools on the system will now get direct access to the 200-page book.

Irvine-born Fiona Hyslop said: “This offers inspiration not only to Ayrshire but to other towns and cities throughout

Scotland. I am keen to take this concept to West Lothian to tell the story of the constituency I represent. As an Ayrshire lass it’s great to see not just Ayr, Irvine and Kilmarnock but places like Muirkirk, Sorn, Dunlop, Auchinleck and New Cumnock all celebrated. What a message that can give to this generation about what they can achieve. This initiative is about culture and heritage but it is also about who we are and more importantly what we can be.”

Songstress Eddie Reader, from Irvine, donated five of her hit Burns songs to the project, which as well as featuring sound also boasts video.

The A-list features 96 men and 18 women either Ayrshire-born or principally linked - and 28 people are living. Each of Ayrshire’s 46,250 school children will receive a direct electronic link in three different formats.

At the launch ceremony in Irvine’s Menzies Hotel, Ayrshire Chamber Chief Executive Val Russell, said: “This enhances the work we do with schools and in particular the Chamber Youth Academy which

provides a direct link to our 800 members. We were looking for a way to highlight innovators, entrepreneurs, sports people, arts, music and business and through them raise the aspirations of our young people. If a boy from Dreghorn can invent the rubber tyre which we all still use today, and a man who started down the mines aged ten, went on to become the Prime Minister of Australia, then we can all achieve great things.”

Millionaire entrepreneur and philanthropist Sir Tom Hunter, who features in the top 20, added: “You would think one tiny part of Scotland couldn’t quite generate the content for a full book of outstanding achievement; but then you’d be wrong. It tells a tale not just of the famous but also about the ordinary folk who have accomplished extraordinary things – I hope that trend continues and grows.”

Craig Johnstone, boss of the Dundonald-based digital media firm Giglets which produced the book, said: “Children are at the forefront of the iPad and tablet revolution so an ebook was the natural target to reach our audience.

We’ve worked on this for four months and I believe we’ve delivered exciting content and used the latest technology to bring to life Ayrshire’s famous characters from down the centuries.” *Ayrshire’s Famous People can be freely accessed at www.ayrshire-chamber.org

Starting or growing a business in Ayrshire?

Make us part of your plans.

Every year in Ayrshire we support over 700 businesses to start up and also work with over 200 growing businesses to increase turnover and employment.

To find out how Business Gateway Ayrshire can help with your business, call 01292 430 535 or visit www.bgateway.com/ayrshire.

Business G Gateway ateway services ser se errvices vices are arre e delivered deliiv vere ed b by y Local Local Authorities, Authorities, Scottish Scottish Ent Enterprise E errprise and Scottish Scottish Government Goverrnment with with the the support ort of associated associated partner partner organisations. organisations.

your ayrshire business summer 2013

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Alison gets animated

Ayrshire Loan Fund - is it news to you?

WHEN Alison Page started up her new Coaching & Learning Consultancy business in March this year, she decided to use a different approach to explain why there are personal and business benefits to development through coaching.

THE Ayrshire Loan Fund may be news to many business owners in Ayrshire however it has been about for some time and with loans of up to £50,000 available it is well worth knowing about!

The Fund has been set up within the realms of Ayrshire as a unique loan fund with the purpose of supporting and protecting existing businesses and encouraging local economic growth. The three Ayrshire local authorities manage the fund exclusively with each authority having responsibility for £500,000 of funds.

Loans are available to Ayrshire businesses with particular focus on those operating in the tourism, retail and food & drink sectors. This is a fund unique to Ayrshire and offers up to 75% of the funding package with the balance being provided by private sector support.

The loan criteria differs from other loans and funding available and has been used to successfully support new and growing businesses that are unable to attract the level of investment required to get their projects off the ground from traditional funding bodies.

With applications open to businesses operating as sole trader, partnership, limited liability partnership, limited company or social enterprise there are many companies who could be benefitting from the Ayrshire Loan Fund. www.wslf.co.uk/alf

In just three minutes her ‘Routes To Flourish’ animation makes the case for personal coaching which is so true to life that people from many walks of life will be able to relate to it. Alison explains why coaching will provide focused support to her clients and, in the midst of our very busy lives, help them to flourish!

As a new Chamber member, Alison has become involved with the Youth Chamber Academy and is looking forward to networking and would like to offer Ayrshire members a special discount rate on coaching sessions. Contact alison@routestoflourish.com quoting Your Ayrshire Business.

Check out her animation at: www.routestoflourish.com

PRESTIGIOUS Classic Yachts will grace the waters of the Clyde this summer from 28thJune to 5th July at the fourth gathering of the much admired William Fife designed yachts.

During the golden age of the Victorian era through to 1938 when his yard at Fairlie, North Ayrshire built his last yacht Solway Maid, Wm. Fife was a master of his craft. Twenty of these Classic Yachts are set to return to the Clyde.

The inaugural Fife Regatta was held in 1998, and thereafter in 2003 and 2008. A number of owners with a shared passion and enthusiasm for Fife yachts have made this pilgrimage back to their home waters.

Two fabulous boats celebrate their 90th birthdays this year; Kentra, a 100ft Gaff- Ketch has been in storage for nearly seven years, is being relaunched for the regatta and Astor, an 86ft Schooner, will be coming all the way from California for the occasion.

Hatasoo, the 19ft Gaff sloop build in 1894 will be the oldest yacht. Larger yachts will include Moonbeam III (105ft) and Aventuress (100ft).

Seabird and Oblio are more recent builds from William Fife drawings and

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IMAGE: Copyright PFM Pictures: Marc Turner

The Fife Regatta 2013

confirm how these yachts have a place in modern times.

The yachts will begin in Largs and will have passage races to Rothesay, Tighnabruaich and Portavadie before returning to Largs.

In conjunction with the Year of Natural Scotland this event embraces our natural environment through water, wind and scenic surroundings. It is a show case of

Scotland’s heritage and the sport of Sailing. This will be a classic sevenday event which can be enjoyed from many of the beautiful vantage points on land or sea. The Fife Regatta committee is working closely with Argyll Secret Coast to identify some of the best vantage points.

Information will be on: www.fiferegatta.com and www.argyllsecretcoast.co.uk

25,000 Modern Apprentices in Scotland Record training opportunity target hit for second year THE Scottish Government and Skills Development Scotland have confirmed that the target to enhance the job prospects of 25,000 young people through training in a key sector has been met for a second year.

Minister for Youth Employment Angela Constance said: “The Scottish Government recognises the value of the Modern Apprenticeship programme in developing and improving the skills of our young people.

An MA gives them a job and a qualification, as well as a real entry point to the working world. This is precisely why we set ourselves the challenging target to offer 25,000 MA opportunities for each year of the current Parliament and I am delighted that the target has again been reached.

“Much of the credit for this work must go to Scotland’s employers. To create 25,000 opportunities every year requires a willingness to get involved in the future welfare of our young people. Throughout 2013 I will be asking more employers in Scotland to make young people their business, but I would also offer my thanks to those who have got involved so far.

“MAs are just part of our action to help

A Law Firm For Life

MCMILLAN Kilpatrick, one of Ayr’s most prestigious law firms, merged on 2 April with leading Ayr law practice The McKinstry Company.

Graeme McKinstry explains, “We live in a fast-changing, dynamic business and commercial world where the demands for effective, efficient and professionally delivered legal services are ever upon the increase. This new development creates an unrivaled strength in depth of legal talent, exposure and support and uniquely equips the new firm to provide the type of advice which our client base has grown to expect.”

The firm comprises five partners and a consultant (photograph) supported by four extensively trained solicitors offering advice across a spectrum of business, property, private client, litigation and family law.

Stephen Neillie, formerly a partner at 8

your ayrshire business summer 2013

young people into employment, including the investment of £29million into third sector programme Community Jobs Scotland and guaranteeing every young person aged 16 to 19 a place in education or training through Opportunities for All. Scotland’s recent job figures show that the action we are taking is having an effect, including lower unemployment and higher employment amongst our young people compared to the UK. However, we will not be complacent and action will continue this year, including the McMillan Kilpatrick and who is assumed as a partner in the new firm, adds, “Given the current fast-changing climate and increasing client demand, I recognised that when Iain Howat indicated it was his intention to retire that we had to look to the best way forward to properly equip the firm to deliver a first-class legal service and after early discussions with The McKinstry Company it became clear that this development was the future for our clients and colleagues.”

Graeme continues, “Over the past few years we have been looking for a suitable merger partner to enable us to continue to grow and strengthen our practice to reflect increasing client demand and we are delighted with this latest exciting development. We are all looking forward to a bright future.”

The practice operates from offices at 25 Barns Street, Ayr, concentrating primarily on private client work, such as asset protection, minimising inheritance tax, and administrating estates, while at 39 Sandgate they advise on a full range of business, litigation and property law.

rollout of employer recruitment incentives across local authorities in the coming months.”

Skills Development Scotland’s Chief Executive Damien Yeates said: “Today shows in very tangible terms the commitment of employers and individuals and how Modern Apprenticeships have a vital and valuable impact on Scotland’s economy. I hope it will encourage other employers to offer more opportunities to help people build their future.”

Filthy Brits Miss Out On Love DIRTY Brits are missing out on an altogether different kind of filth thanks to their unsavoury hygiene habits. A massive 52% of singletons in Ayrshire would shelve a second date with a potential partner if their house was a den of dirt.

In a survey conducted by Molly Maid, the UK’s leading domestic cleaning company, a whopping 64% of women judge others on the cleanliness of their homes.

A staggering 66% of people wouldn’t go to a friend’s home for dinner if they knew the kitchen was always dirty or messy with half of those worrying that they might catch something from lurking germs and 58% of those who would go are concerned that they would be given dirty plates or cutlery.

Surprisingly, 63% of all men in Ayrshire have gossiped about the state of a friend’s home, joking that they tripped over all the mess, compared to only half of women.

79% of people wouldn’t let their children play round a dirty house and of the parents that would, 33% would give the kids anti-bacterial wipes to clean their hands while visiting.

Jeanette Wilson, Molly Maid Franchise Owner in Ayrshire said; “Just because people work longer hours and have less time to do daily chores doesn’t mean that others are any less forgiving when it comes to judging the state of your home.

Being house-proud is a really important quality to have and even if someone has a fantastic career, amazing personality or a nice smile, a dirty house is a massive no-no! Sometimes it’s good to get a helping hand from professional cleaners to come home to a lovely clean and comfortable environment not only for yourself but for visitors to relax in too.”

Molly Maid has been providing bespoke professional domestic cleaning services to homes across the UK for over 25 years. Visit www.mollymaid.co.uk or call Jeanette Wilson on 01292 570210.

In The Global Spotlight Added cost pressures on business

AYRSHIRE and Arran led the way at VisitScotland’s annual Expo at the SECC in Glasgow as public and private sector partners worked together to market the area to travel trade buyers and journalists from around the globe. This year’s custom built stand was one of the largest at the show, with ten of Ayrshire’s businesses and tourism associations working together to highlight the best of Ayrshire and Arran.

Expo is Scotland’s flagship business to business event for the travel trade. Tourism businesses and associations including A D Rattray’s Whisky Experience, Auchrannie Resort, Blair Estate, Carrick Tourism Group, Cook School Scotland, Costley and Costley, Gailes Golf Experience, Park Hotel, SimpsInns, and VisitArran combined to showcase their products and services to key buyers from around the world.

Moira Birtwistle, Chair of the Ayrshire and Arran Tourism Leadership Group said: "The Ayrshire and Arran presence at Expo is an excellent example of the collaborative approach we need to deliver our action plan and move forward with our five year strategy.

We know that new business has been attracted as a direct result of the work on Expo.”

Sheila Gilmore, Executive Director of VisitArran, added: “The support of the Tourism Team in co-ordinating the stand is invaluable and provides a really effective platform for

COMMENTING on the Government’s decisions on National Minimum Wage rates from 1 October 2013, Dr Adam Marshall, Director of Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:

doing business. We took a lot of positive enquiries over the two days.”

Mike Cantlay, Chairman of VisitScotland, said: “Ayrshire and Arran’s collaborative presence is well established and demonstrates the benefits of a joined up approach. It is great to see an area presenting a coherent offer to travel trade buyers and really maximising the opportunity to sell on a national stage.”

Plans are now underway to further strengthen Ayrshire and Arran’s position as a key tourism destination with a presence at Expo 2014, when the show returns to Glasgow.

Engineering in a shoebox THE South Ayrshire County Finals of the Primary Engineer Programme took place at Ayr College. Sponsored

by Spirit Aerosystems, the event saw schools from across South Ayrshire competing in a series of events involving vehicles they had designed using a shoebox chassis.

Puplis showcased their designs to industry judges, who awarded points for design ideas, final design, the use of tools and materials, the quality of the finished model, and the pupil’s ability to talk about their own work. Ayr College students and British Airways apprentices were on hand to judge the vehicle performance element of the competition, assessing distance travelled, line of travel, additional incline, motor speed and strength tests.

Alastair Heron, Curriculum Manager for Engineering, Maths and Science comments “Ayr College is proud to host this event. In collaboration with our industry partners, we engaged in a “train the trainer” session with teachers. Our students joined engineers from Spirit Aerosystems to help the children with their designs, which is great work experience and an important addition to their CV’s.”

Scott McLarty, Vice President, UK Operations, Spirit Aerosystems explains, “Primary Engineer has been successful in England for a number of years. We wanted to see it grow in Scotland, so we got in touch

with Susan Scurlock, Primary Engineer’s Chief Executive, and invested £10,000 to launch the programme. Seeing the children engaged in their designs and the processes is inspiring. I’ve heard them talking about gear ratios, and 4 wheel-drive which at their age is most encouraging. Training one Aerospace Engineer can take 10-15 years, so engaging at an early age is key for our industry going forward.”

Susan Scurlock, Chief Executive, Primary Engineer comments “The Primary Engineer programme is skills based, and has rapport with the Curriculum of Excellence. This event has attracted 20 different primary schools, which is a great first response. With the UK wide skills shortage in engineering predicted to increase over the next 10 years, building awareness as early as possible with school age children allows them to seriously consider engineering as a career path.”

On the adult National Minimum Wage rate: “We are disappointed that the government has chosen to raise the adult National Minimum Wage rate by 1.9%, an increase that is over 50% higher than current average pay growth. While BCC Director of the pressures of Policy Adam inflation are Marshall affecting many people, including the lowest-paid, the scale of this rise adds significantly to business costs, most of all by contributing to broader pay inflation. It will also make some employers less inclined to hire additional members of staff.”

On the Youth and Development rates and the Apprenticeship rate: “Restrained increases in the youth and apprenticeship rates of the National Minimum Wage will ensure employers have a continued incentive to hire young people, despite the fact that many lack demonstrable work experience. Ministers must remember that as well as wage costs, businesses must invest heavily in many young people to ensure they are ready for the world of work. They should therefore focus their energy on ensuring that the education and training system becomes more responsive to the needs of employers.”

On ensuring compliance among employers of Apprentices: “Law-abiding businesses have no problem with enforcement of the National Minimum Wage for apprenticeships, particularly in cases where unscrupulous individuals deliberately flout the rules. However, law-abiding companies tell us repeatedly that the government must communicate better and more consistently with businesses, to ensure that all companies understand the rules for employing an apprentice.”

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Can work UK Kitchen Retailer of damage the Year 2013 your health?

JOY Gill, at the “Joy of Chiropractic Health Clinic”; and Saxen Ltd have joined forces to help people feel more comfortable in their working environment.

Nicola Gillespie approached Joy when she saw her offering Free Spine Reports for Chamber members on LinkedIn. Now, they are working together on a campaign entitled “Can Work Damage Your Health?”

Joy explains, “Meeting Nicola, and the rest of the Saxen team has brought a new dimension to my work. As a McTimoney Chiropractor I am always on the lookout for products that can help my clients find comfort, and Saxen has an extensive range of office-ware that helps with comfort in the workplace. Having a good ergonomic working environment is vital for people to maximise the effect of treatment long after they have left my clinic. The Saxen products will help my clients remain straight and supported when in an office environment”.

Chamber members in the Westfield Health Plan can claim back the cost of Chiropractic treatment, up to their maximum annual allowance, so why wait until you have a pain so bad that it interferes with either your work, or play?

Contact Joy on 01292 287827 www.joyofchiropractic.co.uk or one of the other listed practitioners on www.westfieldhealth.com

KILMARNOCK based, Kitchens by JS Geddes, established in 1984 are celebrating as they are once again named as the ‘UK Kitchen Retailer of the Year 2013’ at a glittering GalaAwards Dinner at the Hilton Hotel, Park Lane, London. The event was hosted by the leading Kitchen Industry magazine, KBB Review and the award was presented by Ed Byrne.

This is the fourth time JS Geddes has brought the award home to Ayrshire, scooping the trophy in 2012 and also in 2004 and 1997. They are the only kitchen retailer from an estimated 6,000 UK wide to scoop the award four times, since the awards were launched in 1994.

Jim Geddes, Managing Director said, “Winning is a tremendous achievement for the team and is a reflection of the effort and commitment shown by our staff. The award helps set us apart from other companies and consolidates our position as the best kitchen company in the UK.” Andrew Davies, Managing Editor, KBB Review, added “Kitchens by JS Geddes, is a fantastic example of how a leading kitchen studio should be run. They're renowned for their fantastic service and design skills, but what really sets them apart is the extremely professional and methodical approach they take to running the operation. They have very sophisticated systems in place that put a lot of other retailers to shame and they only go to improve and underpin the service they give to their

Pictured L-R Comedian Ed Byrne: Jim Geddes, Managing Director, Kitchen by JS Geddes and Mike Jarrett, Sales Director, Neff, who sponsored the award

customers."

The Award follows a busy start to the year for Jim Geddes. In January his company was announced as the ‘official authorised AGA showroom for Ayrshire’.

A fully functioning show kitchen was installed in their showroom with a revolutionary AGA iTotal Control which allows remote operation using a mobile phone, smartphone, PC, laptop, or tablet.

In February, Principal of Design, Shaun Dunbar celebrated his 1000th customer since joining the business 12 years ago by designing and selling a Poggenpohl kitchen for local Ayrshire residents, Sir and Lady Collins. www.jsgeddes.com

Sail-faris THE Firth of Clyde provides one of the largest areas of sheltered deep water in the British Isles making it an ideal destination for both sailing and wildlife watching. An initiative from Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park combines these with learning to sail a yacht. The launch of the Clyde Muirshiel Explorer Sailfaris was attended by representatives from national agencies and key tourism businesses from in and around the Park area.

Mike Cantlay Chairman of Visit Scotland said: “The Year of Natural Scotland is about getting as many people as possible out and about experiencing our amazing country. I’m sure that the Sail-faris initiative will

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help to boost the region’s natural tourism product at a rate of knots!”

Marc Crothall Chief Executive of the Scottish Tourism Alliance said: “One of the key aims set out in the National Strategy: Tourism Scotland 2020 is to play to Scotland’s strengths by turning our unique assets into authentic memorable experiences, and this is a fantastic example of this.

With marine tourism set to grow the development opportunities and future for this new venture should be plain sailing.”

Corporate bookings can also be arranged, providing an ideal environment for team building, doing business or encouraging investment. www.clydemuirshiel.co.uk

Tourism reps board the Clyde Muirshiel Explorer before the maiden voyage

Investing in Hot Cross Bunny!

Ayrshire FAMILY motor group, Kerr & Smith, started

by Jim Smith and Bill Kerr in 1975, has for the past two years been investing in a new super truck aftersales facility adjacent to the Whitletts roundabout in Ayr. The new site will provide prime access to the main transport link to the A77 and help to develop Ayrshire as a key travel hub ready for investment.

The modern designed building, scheduled to open mid-year, will accommodate the firms existing truck franchises, along with a new opportunity to MOT heavy good vehicles on site in their ATF lane (authorised test facility). With the Government’s decision to systematically close all VOSA testing stations nationwide, Kerr & Smith grasped the opportunity to retain a truck and coach test facility for Ayrshire operators.

The firm will migrate its existing customers and garage equipment from its rented premises in Walker Road, to the new facility during June and July, headed up by current Managing Director Paul Kerr whose experience in HGVs spans 25 years with the family firm.

Kerr & Smith’s continued presence in Ayrshire has created apprenticeships, employment and feeds into the local economy. Chairman Jim Smith says, “Throughout the construction phase, where possible, we have sourced labour and materials from local suppliers to further stimulate the local economy.” www.kerrandsmith.co.uk

SHOPPERS at Tesco Ayr, recently, were greeted by a large Easter Bunny, promoting hot cross buns!

Two teams from the Chamber Youth Academy were tasked with raising sales of hot cross buns by using the skills and tricks they had learned from their business mentors.

Chamber Youth Academy is an initiative aimed at helping 16 to 20 year olds make steps towards employment by confidence building, developing skills and experience to be taken forward to

the workplace.

Volunteer mentors have been guiding the teams throughout the process which will see the candidates taking on different business roles involving, product knowledge, finance, negotiation, marketing and sales.

Claire Baird, Business Liaison Coordinator at Ayrshire Chamber said, “The teams have used all their attributes and training gained over the preceding week.

They have been able to put into practice their sales and marketing ideas and it was a “hotly” contested challenge. By taking it just that little step further, Rikki and his rabbit onesie might have been the winning factor for his team!”

To get involved in the Chamber Youth Academy call Claire 01292 678666

Creating a World First!

AvantiCell takes part in €5.5 million Euro-project to create the world's first artificial pancreas AN Ayrshire-based biotechnology company has been chosen to play a crucial role in a ground-breaking €5.5 million European project which could bring hope to countless diabetes sufferers around the world. AvantiCell Science, based in Auchincruive, will be one of seven partners - four European companies and three prestigious universities, including Oxford - who will work together with the ultimate aim of creating an artificial pancreas.

The pancreas is one of the most important organs in the human body. It completes the task of breaking down protein, carbohydrates and fats and secretes hormones, including insulin, which regulate blood sugar levels.

Research into the possibility of artificially replicating the complex, six-inch long organ has been taking place in Europe for nearly two decades and the current

project, called BIOSID, is aimed at creating clinical validation, first in large animals and then in humans.

AvantiCell has been co-opted onto the programme because of its internationally-recognised expertise with primary cells of human origin and its use of proprietary technologies to mimic their physiological functions.

Dr Jo Oliver, chief executive of AvantiCell, said: "BIOSID is the latest stage in a long-term exploration of a goal which could have a major impact on the lives of diabetes patients. It is a great tribute to a small Scottish company and the entire team at AvantiCell are very proud to have been asked to participate."

Dr Colin Wilde, chief scientific officer, explained that an artificial pancreas would be of most immediate benefit to extreme sufferers of Type 1 diabetes.

Type 1 is classed as an auto-immune disease in which the failure of the pancreatic functions can have devastating consequences, such as kidney failure, ulcers, eye problems and even amputations.

Diabetes is currently regarded as a worldwide epidemic by the World Health Organisation, with 366 million sufferers costing €340 billion in health care. With

4.6 million deaths a year, one diabetic is dying every seven seconds.

What has prevented the implantation of an artificial pancreas up to now has been the body's reaction to it. When the immune system encounters what it regards as a foreign entity, it attacks and suppresses it. The project AvantiCell is working on will use semi-permeable membranes, allowing the passage of glucose and insulin, but preventing the entry of the components of the immune system. Thus, no immunosuppressive therapy will be necessary.

Dr Oliver said: "The bio-pancreas, as envisaged, will be very small, less than a centimetre in width, so invasive surgery for its implantation will be kept to a minimum. It is not clear yet how often it will have to be replaced, but its ease of use means it could be widely deployed.

At the moment, a patient who has diabetes for 20 years will have to puncture his skin 45,000 times - that's three injections and three blood sugar test per day and getting rid of all these heavy medical constraints is clearly one of the major challenges of the current research." your ayrshire business summer 2013

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Sounds Prehistoric!

SOUTH West Scotland is booming to the roar of prehistoric beasts at Dino Park, Scotland's newest dinosaur attraction thanks to Ayrshire Chamber member Tosh Lubek Productions who created the sound design for the exhibits as well as the park's online video.

Tosh Lubek said, "The sound design brief was to create believable soundscapes while recognising Dino Park as a fun attraction."

Obviously no one knows exactly what creatures sounded like in the Cretaceous, Jurassic or Triassic periods but children have a clear impression of what dinosaurs should sound like thanks to film and TV! Tosh explains, "We started by researching each dinosaur species on show to ensure the sounds we chose or created were realistic. Our own sound effects library has around 50,000 sound clips and we also searched specialist online archives."

Sound effects are often in the form of individual elements, Tosh continues, "We pieced together the elements for the environment and then the dinosaurs themselves, a kind of aural jigsaw puzzle incorporating sounds of; movement through bushes, footsteps, biting and chewing of vegetation. Sound is more important than you might think in creating an authentic experience and in building emotion. Try watching a nature documentary or movie with the volume turned down and you’ll get the idea."

Dino Park owner, David Wilson said, "The quality and professionalism of the sound and graphics done by Tosh Lubek for the Dino Park far exceeded our expectations, and has made the visit hugely enjoyable and memorable for many families." www.toshlubekproductions.co.uk www.dinopark.co.uk

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SPEAKEASY

WHEN asked what they most dread in business, many will say it’s giving a presentation or talk to a group of people. With all eyes and ears on us, it can seem like one of the most nerve-racking things we can be asked to do.

Even the bravest CEO has been known to avoid, delegate or call in sick to avoid it – so how to tackle those nerves?

Recall a really excellent presentation you have heard. Why was it so great? Most people will say: • It was directly relevant to me • It was just the right length and held my interest • It helped me do or understand something better So, to deliver a really good talk, turn the spotlight away from you.

Make sure your content is relevant, interesting and helpful to your audience.

Keeping this in mind, here are my three steps to giving great presentations: 1. Prepare Instead of expending energy in worrying about your presentation, get on with preparing it! Find a pile of Postits and a large blank wall.

Write one key point per Postit to summarise and organise your ideas.

Keep the structure of your presentation simple, your points relevant to the particular audience, and your language appropriate (ie. jargon-free unless you’re speaking to fellow experts in your field) Have clearly in your mind the one message you want your audience to take from your talk. Prepare to state that message clearly at the beginning and at the end. For example: “So, if you’re looking for excellent service from a friendly, local business, please give me a call on this number.”

2. Practise Professional actors, singers, musicians wouldn’t dream of facing an audience without rehearsing – and you wouldn’t pay to see them if they did. So why do you think you can get away with it?

Once you’re happy that you have a clear structure and relevant content, find an empty space and practice out loud. Get comfortable with your talk by presenting to a

critical friend, or the dog. Record your talk with a webcam and see for yourself what you can improve.

3. Present If you look and sound confident, people will think you are confident...it’s a fact. So all you have to do is fool them for little while.

Use a simple relaxation technique before you begin; I recommend breathing – yes really.

It’s amazing how many of us forget to do it properly when we’re tense.

Take slow deep breaths on your way to the event, before you go on, and before you begin.

Unless they add something for the audience, avoid using slides as your aide-memoire. The message should come from you; your conviction and personality should convey it person to person.

Ready?

• Take the floor – pause and wait for people to give you their attention • Focus on your first sentence; make it really strong and positive • Speak more slowly than usual; it will sound odd to you, but good to them • Make everything you say relevant and pause to let people take it in • Make your final sentence really count with that strong message • Pause again – and wait for the applause - before you ask for questions.

Jill Simpson DEVA

Jill is a qualified business and coach and trainer with more years’ experience than she cares to remember. When she’s not working, Jill acts in and co-manages a small theatre company, reads voraciously and dances rock and roll. She likes gardening, but only when it’s sunny.

Jill facilitates workshops at the Chamber Training Academy.

Savour the flavour of Success!

KILMARNOCK based family craft bakery Brownings the Bakers has taken the BEST SAVOURY IN SCOTLAND accolade for its Killie Pie along with a place as one of two runners up for the Scottish Baker of the Year 2013 Award, at a glittering ceremony hosted by Scottish Bakers,

the association that supports and promotes the interests of Scottish Bakers across the country.

“We are extremely pleased to be recognised as one of Scotland’s best bakers” said MD John Gall. “We were established in 1945 by my grandparents and quickly gained a reputation for the

quality of our products, in particular our Morning Roll. We currently operate 10 retail shops in Ayrshire and our wholesale business supplies a diverse range of clients from local independent grocers, hotels & caterers to national blue chip retailers. We even provide the match day catering at the home of Kilmarnock FC. We employ traditional craft skills to produce great tasting bakery products and are proud of the family nature of our business. We could not have come this far in the competition without our dedicated and skilled team and without the votes of all of our customers, thank you.”

Judge on ITV’s Britain’s Best Bakery Mich Turner MBE, who presented Brownings with their award, said “There have been some fantastic entries and all the prizes I have handed out to bakers have been worthy in every way. I wish Brownings well in the coming year as one of Scotland’s premier craft bakers.”

Chief Executive of Scottish Bakers, Alan Clarke commented, “15,000 customers from Stranraer to Shetland voted for their best bakery products during March. The top products in each of the 6 categories were baked and delivered to Dunfermline. They were then judged by a panel of independent experts, led by artisan baker Robert Ross and including retired master bakers with extensive experience of the bakery sector in Scotland. We now have a ringing endorsement for our industry and a worthy runner up in Brownings.”

“Xtra” opportunities come your way MEMBERS of the Chamber Team were amongst the first to catch sight of William Duncan & Co.’s new service providing small businesses with an online accounting service, using the latest in cloud technology.

XTRA ACCOUNTING has partnered with XERO, an online accounting system designed for small business to work with you and your staff in real-time. There is no software to install and no hassle to set up. Xero allows you and Xtra Accounting Ltd. to share the same information through mobile devices, allowing you to access your accounting information - anytime, anywhere.

Xtra Accounting offer training to get you started or you can take advantage of a full support package of bookkeeping and reporting, allowing you more time to devote to the development of your business or to enjoy precious free time!

CEO Val Russell commented “Anything that gives businesses up to date, real time financial information has got to be welcomed.

Leaving it until year end to realise you may be in trouble despite being busy isn’t good news for anyone. It looks very easy to use especially if you already use online banking” For further details call Hazel Hartfield House, Ayr on: 01292 254000

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Are you playing a waiting game?

FOR business and supply chains prompt payment is crucial. Yet a survey commissioned by the British Chambers of Commerce has uncovered shocking statistics showing that late payments are affecting a huge percentage of members.

A massive 94% of respondents experienced late payments, with over a third of them stating that larger businesses (over 50 employees) are the most likely culprits and the private sector performing worse than public bodies. Stalling tactics involve using cheques with over 69% of

Auchrannie strikes gold!

THE prestigious “Investors in People” (IIP) gold status has been awarded to the Auchrannie Resort in recognition of the continuous investment made in training and developing their team.

Photo shows some of the management team (l to r); Auchrannie is the first Craig Beedie (eighteen69), Barry Taylor hotel in Scotland to (maintenance), Linda Johnston (executive director), have been recognised Richard Small (general manger), Pat I’anson (front of with gold status as house), Colin Morrison (accounts), Jillian Plenderleith well as the first (recreations). business on Arran.

IIP focuses on business improvement through employee engagement, using proven approaches which help organisations understand how they can best lead, manage and develop their people.

By applying the Investors in People “plan - do – review” approach Auchrannie has ensured that they get their training strategy right first time and the result has been a continuous improvement in team performance.

Deputy General Manager David Johnston said “Being part of IIP is all about ensuring that we achieve best practice throughout the training and development of our team. This ensures that we can deliver on our promise to treat every customer as an individual and provide a unique

experience with passion and personality.”

Auchrannie have been involved with ‘Investors in People’ for a number of years and are now one of only a few dozen businesses in Scotland that have achieved IIP Gold status, including DHL, Tesco Mobile and Diageo.

Linda Johnston, Auchrannie’s Executive Director added, “Since we first opened the doors 25 years ago we have always recognised that only by investing in our team can we deliver outstanding customer service. Being awarded IIP Gold status is a reflection of this investment and one that every single member of the team should be proud of.”

businesses typically paid by cheque when the preferred method of payment for the majority is BACS (Bankers’ Automated Clearance Services).

We are calling on our members to commit to prompt payments within agreed timeframes, using efficient fund transfer methods to help alleviate cashflow difficulties.

Prompt payment = professional people!

Responding to Change PALIGAP has recently celebrated the launch of its seventh responsive website.

Statistics show that mobile internet traffic is between 35% and 50% on many websites and growing daily. With a sale from a mobile every 2 seconds on Ebay, 38% of UK tablet owners spend more of their time on their device than watching TV and 86% of adults own a mobile phone and use it for internet access.

Responsive websites adapt in structure and screen size for the device they are being viewed on, allowing users to enjoy a seamless user experience when using the internet. Navigation changes to finger friendly style and site design responds to remove the need for scrolling and zooming on mobile devices.

Paligap Director, Lorna Gibson says, “2013 is said to be the year of Responsive Web Design and Paligap is at the forefront of this technology. We have spent the last year investing in our resource and skills are now delivering fantastic results for our clients by creating some pretty impressive responsive sites.”

New commissions for Paligap include responsive websites for Royal Troon Golf Club, Coast Entertainments, MercedesBenz Commercial Vehicles and Dumfries House Education. www.paligap.com

In safe hands SOUTH Beach Holdings (Scotland) Ltd is a new Ayrshire based company offering a range of health and safety training and consultancy services and advice to SME's, Local Authorities, Housing Associations, NHS and multinational companies.

The three directors or “well kent faces are” (Gemma Fullarton, Don MacIntyre and Jim Redmond), all experienced health and safety consultants and practitioners with over 70 years combined experience in the health and safety industry.

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A well thought out health and safety policy is the starting point for any business with five or more employees. It not only shows compliance with the law it also demonstrates a commitment to your staff.

South Beach Holdings (Scotland) Ltd have already been successful in reaching the final stages of the Business Excellence Awards and The Scottish Chamber of Safety Awards. www.southbeachholdings.co.uk

Making the most of Chamber HR

Creative Kilmarnock wins prestigious award

WE provide members of Ayrshire Chamber with FREE, unlimited access to a Human Resource and Health and Safety Advice Line- 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and access to over 250 downloadable policies, forms, documents, letters, templates and fact sheets. All you need is a user name and password in order to download specific documents, and once logged in you can access these documents as often as you require.

In order to provide you with some further information on Chamber HR, we analysed activity throughout 2012.

We looked at the number of downloads including letters, forms, policies and contracts of employment plus the number of calls made by Ayrshire Chamber members to the advice line.

There were 2,302 downloaded documents, of which 944 were letters and forms; 1230 were policies and 128 were contracts. There were also 300 calls to our advice line. This is an excellent return on the outlay of £4 per member and puts Ayrshire Chamber in the top 10 performers in the UK! In 2012, Ayrshire Chamber had 2,479 company hits. The total for the UK was 45,917 and so in terms of total hits; this ranks Ayrshire Chamber as 3rd in the UK, a tremendous result!

Subscribing members also have access to: • A health and safety reference manual which gives professional advice and documentation on a range of health and safety issues.

• A compliant Health and Safety Policy • Template organisation and responsibility documentation • The facility to develop a Health and Safety Management System • Unlimited access to a health and safety advice line manned by health and safety experts • Access to locally delivered training and consultancy • The potential to benefit from lower insurance premiums Chamber HR is the perfect solution to employing people properly. Why pay someone else when we give you it for free? Call Helen McBride on: 01292 678666 or email hmcbride@ayrshire-chamber.org for further information.

KILMARNOCK beat off stiff competition to win a prestigious £150,000 award at the Creative Place Awards in St Andrews.

Now in their second year, the Awards were established by Creative Scotland to celebrate and recognise the hard work and imagination that contributes to the rich cultural life of a community, as well as its social and economic well-being.

A partnership project between East Ayrshire Council’s Cultural and Countryside Services, Centrestage and The Town Centre Regeneration initiative made the award shortlist due to the wide involvement of the whole community, as well as the cultural track record and existing plans. The cash award will allow the partnership to enhance and promote their future activity.

Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of East Ayrshire Council said: “I am absolutely delighted that Kilmarnock has been named most creative place in Scotland at the Creative Place Awards 2013. This is worthy recognition for the Council’s Cultural and Countryside Services team, the Town Centre Regeneration team and our partners at local theatre group, Centrestage. We have a group of people out in our communities who are wholeheartedly dedicated to creating thriving arts venues, encouraging young people to participate in the arts and growing local music festivals. The prize money will allow the Council to bring together our cultural communities and town centre regeneration, to engage in a creative and co-ordinated

approach to regeneration in Kilmarnock.”

The Award and funding will allow the partnership to promote and expand their festival programmes and include new work based in vacant shops in Kilmarnock town centre.

Fiona Nicolson, Town Centre Manager, added: “This Award creates a fantastic opportunity for linking in with cultural and arts projects in Kilmarnock town centre.

Kilmarnock has so much to offer and this award will help us re-position the town.”

Fiona MacKenzie, Director and Co-founder of Centrestage, said: “We have all seen how the arts can transform lives, futures and communities in this area and it is incredible and wonderful to see this commitment recognised nationally. The potential for sustainable regeneration through the arts is now a realistic possibility.”

Iain Munro, Director of Creative Development for Creative Scotland, said: “Kilmarnock is a fantastic example of how embedding arts and culture within the foundation of a community strengthens and improves people’s lives, impacting the social and economic wellbeing of the community.”

Phillipa Aitken, Team Leader – Cultural Development said: “I am truly proud of Kilmarnock and our cultural programme which stands tall alongside the offer of any city in Scotland. I feel privileged to work and live here, and the Creative Place award recognises something I see every day – a town filled with soul, ambition and heart.” your ayrshire business summer 2013

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service and Corporate Social Responsibility.

s ’ t a h T ! t n i M AYRSHIRE accountancy firm, Mint Accounting, has been shortlisted in this year’s Scottish Accountancy Awards, under the ‘Small Firm of the Year’ award category. Mint will now go through to the final stages, where it will be assessed on a number of business disciplines, including: leadership, growth, innovation, client

Client, Ron Skirving of Delta Digital, nominated the practice after accessing its webinar training and cloud technology services in a bid to become ‘paperless’.

The shortlisting follows on from the Company’s success last year, when it won an innovation award for ‘Overall Practice of the Year 2012’ at the 2020 UK Awards.

Charlotte Gillett, Business & Commercial Manager at Mint Accounting, said: “Being shortlisted for this award is a huge achievement

Partnership for Charity THIS year’s Ayrshire Hospice Golf Day will take place on the 12th August 2013 at West Kilbride Golf Club.

Sponsored by Chartered Financial Planners Munro Partnership Ltd., the cost for a team of four will be £300.00.

There is also the opportunity to support the event by sponsoring a hole,

or donating a prize. There are few whose lives have not been touched by the work of a Hospice, whether through a loved one, friend, or colleague. Therefore if you can support this event then please contact Gabi Coyle at the Ayrshire Hospice on Gabrielle.Coyle@ayrshirehospice.org or on 01292 288488. Such fundraising events are key to the Ayrshire Hospice in their continued efforts to provide care and support, at no cost, to all those families in our community who are living in the shadow of terminal illness.

Allison Walker and Charlotte Gillett, Business & Commercial Manager of Mint Accounting. Marketing Manager of Mint Accounting.

and we feel very proud. Our Ayrshire team has worked so hard since the office opened last year, so it’s nice to get this recognition in return - especially in these awards, which are so highly regarded in the industry. Our Ayrshire office has quickly become an integral part of the overall company, playing a huge role in its success. This acknowledgement will help us through our next phase of growth, as we open more offices throughout Scotland and take on more staff in Ayrshire.”

The winners of the Scottish Accountancy Awards will be announced at a prestigious awards ceremony on June 20th in Glasgow. www.mintaccounting.co.uk

New qualification will help young people prepare for work SCOTTISH businesses are backing a new employer assessed work experience based qualification to help young people prove they are ready for the world of work.

The Certificate of Work Readiness has been developed by Skills Development Scotland in response to feedback from employers that young people do not have the ‘soft skills’ required to meet the demands of the workplace. It is targeted at 16 to 19 year-olds who have a positive 16

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“can do” attitude and features 190 hours of real life work experience.

Maggie Morrison, SDS board member and AGM HP Scotland, Enterprise Services, said: “It has been an age old complaint of the business community that those starting out on the first rung of the career ladder, no matter their academic ability, often do not have the practical know-how to succeed from day one. This Certificate is going to go further than anything before it in eliminating that doubt.”

The SQA-accredited Certificate takes an average of 10-12 weeks to complete and is unique in that it is only awarded following employer assessment.

Completion of the Certificate will greatly increase the young person’s employability as it shows they have met a standard employers are looking for.

The Certificate has attracted the backing of industries, employer bodies and companies of all sizes across Scotland. www.ourskillsforce.co.uk

The Nucleus of a Career in Life Sciences IN 2012, a collaborative venture involving GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) and Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce supported the local community with a £400,000 fund under the banner of the Community Development Fund. Part of the initiative helps to fund new apprenticeships within Life Sciences for a 3 or 4 year period.

Two of the apprentices supported by the fund are Kirstyn Blackwood and Rachel Grant, who have both taken their first steps into the world of cell biology at AvantiCell Science Ltd, based at Auchincruive.

Jo Oliver PhD, Chief Executive Officer at AvantiCell explains, “The GSK opportunity came along just at the right point. We have found that having two apprentices works well in that it makes company investment in training more effective, but also creates an air of competition which keeps them motivated and striving to improve their performance.”

Both apprentices were recruited in November and will begin studying HNC Biomedical Science at James Watt College, Kilwinning in September, giving them a head start in practical lab skills.

Colin Wilde PhD, Chief Scientific Officer, continues, “Projects Manager and mentor, Tracey Duff has designed a training course which introduces them to the laboratory, makes sure they are safe and are following a structured programme which meets a quality standard at each stage. As the

apprentices progress, they become more skilled and are then able to contribute to the projects that we have running in house. It is very much a phased introduction to the science of cell biology, taking the apprentices first to the point where they can begin to culture cells, and then equipping them to participate in both the R&D projects we have and also the commercial contracts.”

Tracey Duff BSc adds, “We give the apprentices a safety net, so that they can learn without impacting on anybody else’s work, which gives them the freedom to learn and make mistakes. They are “buddied” in the labs, to build confidence and ability. By working together, they provide competition for each other, but also support, as they make the transition from education to full time employment.”

Both Kirstyn and Rachel studied Biology and Chemistry to Higher level at school before applying for the apprenticeships.

Kirstyn says, “I was planning on going to college to study an HNC in science and thought - I can get the best of both worlds, work and go to college at the same time - that’s why I went for the apprenticeship. I love the cell cultures, getting to know different cell lines because they all look different and grow at different rates.”

Rachel adds, “I’ve always been interested in science since I was small and this has developed through secondary school.

I saw the apprenticeship advertised in the JobCentre and did a lot of research into AvantiCell. I enjoy being able to see

how the cells grow, I find it quite interesting how different the cells look and how they can grow quite quickly.

When you get to harvest them, I find that really amazing. Once I complete

my HNC I would like to work my way up and hope that AvantiCell will still want me!”

Colin concludes, “The GSK scheme is very much about encouraging young people to think of science as a career and you don’t necessarily need to go to University to do this, you can train on the job which can be an attraction for some. In a few months’ time these young people will have more practical experience than a life science graduate.” your ayrshire business summer 2013

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Work Experience Chloe at Clyde Property “I WOULD recommend any local Business to engage with the work experience programme.

“It allows Ayrshire young people to experience a commercial environment which is invaluable experience to gain at age 15 to 16 and should be very beneficial in their future careers.

“Chloe, from Carrick Academy, really enjoyed her week’s work experience with us and the staff enjoyed having her in the office. I have to say I was pleasantly surprised with Chloe's general positive attitude towards her work and initiative, especially towards the end of the placement.”

Richard Thomson, Director, Clyde Property

Diggin’ Work Experience!

S3 PUPIL Euan from Queen Margaret Academy couldn't believe his luck when he landed work experience with Paragon Power services at the Ayr County Show.

Paragon who provide temporary power for all types of events, from music festivals to town fetes were delighted to have Euan digging trenches to lay power cables.

Euan said “I'm loving it. I wouldn't mind doing another week!”

A bite of dentistry!

Practice Manager, Stacey Gilmour added, “I love the work experience programme and always look forward to the pupils coming.

They either leave saying "Dentistry is definitely not for me" or "I love dentistry and can’t wait to go to university". I think it’s important for all companies to take part as these pupils are the workforce of the future. Staff enjoy teaching the pupils the good and the bad parts of the job and about the

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your ayrshire business summer 2013

responsibility involved. When you get someone as interested as George has been this year it’s a pleasure. We will continue to support the programme and will look forward to next year!”

To advertise in the next edition of

your

GEORGE from Garnock Academy said, “I believe work experience is very beneficial through my own experience at Kilbirnie Dental Centre.

“They welcomed me with open arms and taught me many interesting facts which furthered my interest in dentistry. I really enjoyed working with the dentist and dental staff. I truly recommend work experience if you get the chance.”

business yrshire

the magazine of ayrshire chamber of commerce and industry

call Stuart Pennington on 07792 362 587 or email stuart.glasgownews@gmail.com

Working it out!

WORK Out! is a Work Experience Programme developed by South Ayrshire Council.

The aims of the programme are: • To provide a challenging and enjoyable programme of vocational experience • To deliver the programme across a range of vocational areas • To provide links and pathways which will encourage progression onto training, further education or employment • To facilitate the achievement of nationally recognised qualifications Pupils attend their work experience placement one day per week with the exception of school holidays and formal study leave. In addition to pupils gaining experience in a working environment, they develop skills in Health and Safety, Customer Service, Interview Skills and Team Building.

As part of their Working with Others

Education Links

Core Skill, pupils arranged and took part in a charity bag packing event at ASDA and a unanimous decision was made to donate all monies raised to the Ayrshire Hospice.

Twenty pupils from Belmont Academy, Ayr Academy and the Southcraig Campus

attended a special awards ceremony, marking the successful completion of the Work Out! Programme and presented Amanda Harris from the Ayrshire Hospice with a cheque for £500. If you would like to become involved in the Work Out! Programme, contact the Chamber.

High flyers at St. Ninian’s RYANAIR received a request from St. Ninian’s Primary School in Prestwick, to present to the youngsters in advance of their geography project on Hawaii – and although Ryanair doesn’t yet fly there, they thought it was good timing!

The children were delighted when Ryanair’s Captain Sean Kelly gave them an insight into what it’s like to be a pilot for a day and then gave them Ryanair goodie bags to take home.

Captain Kelly said: “It was a pleasure to talk to the students, they are such bright, inquisitive children. I jumped at the chance to give something back to another generation, as my own children attended school here.”

Teacher Louise Callaghan said: “Both staff and children were very excited and delighted that Ryanair could join us. Captain Kelly gave the children a great taste of what it is like to be a pilot and hopefully we have a few budding pilots here among us.”

Left: Captain Kelly with some of the P5 children.

Bilingual job hunting at IBM AUCHINLECK Academy pupils have been working in collaboration with the Ayrshire Chamber and IBM in Greenock.

Following a talk from IBM earlier in the year, S3 pupils decided which job they would like to apply for and learned to write CVs and job application letters in French. IBM selected six pupils for interview at the company premises.

Nathan Conn, Keira Taylor, Gavin Gilliland, Morag Maguire, Abby Dunsmuir and Oliver Edwards-Wood took part in an informative visit to IBM, including being interviewed in French for the roles which they applied for.

IBM staff complimented the pupils on their excellent performances in the interviews. They were very impressed with both the level of language and maturity shown. Pupils agreed that although they were incredibly nervous, the opportunity to

participate in the simulation was invaluable, and a “real eye-opener” for their futures.

Following a very tense week of waiting, IBM chose Nathan, Morag and Oliver as their successful applicants! Bravo! your ayrshire business summer 2013

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

4-consulting Ltd Kilmacolm Tel: 07801981611 Contact: Mary Leishman www.4-consulting.com Consultancy offering policy, technology & management advice ARB AID Ltd Stewarton Tel: 01560 480467 Contact: Greg Sutherland www.arbaid.co.uk Equipment & training for tree workers REFERRED BY: Referral Exchange Argyll House Kilmarnock Tel: 01563 520864 Contact: Mhairi Findlay www.mansfieldcare.co.uk Care home ARPL Architects Ltd Ayr Tel: 01292 289777 Contact: Robert Gilliland www.arpl.co.uk Architects and Quantity Surveyors Baltic Business Connections Dumbarton Tel: 07874655780 Contact: Viktorija Zilinskaite www.balticbusinessconnections.com International Business Development Belhaven House Troon Tel: 01292 314410 or 01292 315422 Contact: Karen McIntosh www.mansfieldcare.co.uk Care home

Cecchinis Clyde Marina Ardrossan Tel: 01294 471700 Contact: Anthony Cecchini www.cecchinis.com Italian bar bistro REFERRED BY: William Duncan & Co. Computer Home Help Ayr Tel: 07880 554614 Contact: Charles Steele www.computerhh.co.uk Computer coaching REFERRED BY: AB&BA Member discount 10% Craig Bilham Executive Travel Irvine Tel: 01294 222622 Contact: Craig Bilham www.craigbilhamexecutivetravel.com Chauffeur driven cars & mini coaches REFERRED BY: William Duncan & Co. DHL Global Forwarding Glasgow Tel: 0844 248 0844 Contact: David Nixon www.dhl.com International & UK parcel delivery Diamondshine Dalrymple Tel: 07763131129 Contact: Andrew Duff www.mobilevalet.it Mobile vehicle valet REFERRED BY: Referral Exchange

C R Stocktaking Services Ayr Tel: 01292 611207 Contact: Ronnie or Caroline McWee Stocktaking services REFERRED BY: WestSound

Eilean Mor (Arran) Ltd. Brodick Tel: 01770 302579 Contact: Anne Beveridge www.eileanmor.co.uk Bar & bistro

Campbell Ruby Ltd Prestwick Tel: 07917134774 Contact: Nicole Armstrong www.campbellruby.co.uk Financial Planning Support for IFAs REFERRED BY: Bermar Properties (Scotland) Ltd.

Elevation Architectural Design Ayr Tel: 01292 291150 Contact: Steven Denham www.elevation-ad.co.uk Architectural services

Cecchinis Ayr Tel: 01292 263607 Contact: Andrew Harrop www.cecchinis.com Italian bar & restaurant REFERRED BY: William Duncan & Co.

Enable Scotland Kilmarnock Tel: 01563 546460 Contact: Linda Barnwell www.enable.org.uk Charity supporting young people & adults

Fit Body Farm Kilmaurs Tel: 07734 687646 Contact: Gavin Hogarth www.fitbodyfarm.com Specialist health & weight loss programme Frankie & Bennys Ayr Tel: 01292 272480 Contact: Andy Nowell www.frankieandbennys.co.uk Italian/American restaurant Frankie & Bennys Kilmarnock Tel: 01563 527370 Contact: Roddy McGill www.frankieandbennys.co.uk Italian/American restaurant Frankie & Bennys Irvine Tel: 01294 204830 Contact: Clare Kennedy www.frankieandbennys.co.uk Italian/American restaurant Galahill House Galashiels Tel: 01896 753264 Contact: Mandy Falconer www.mansfieldcare.co.uk Care home HJS Recovery Kilmarnock Tel: 07968 396 860 Contact: Stephen Walsh www.debtchat.co.uk Debt solutions REFERRED BY: Rowallan HSC Futures Ltd. Kilmarnock Tel: 01563 556130 or 01563 540156 Contact: Diane Tinline www.hsctraining.co.uk Specialists in Health & Social Care, H&S, Security & other qualifications JBR Roofing Kilmarnock Tel: 01563 534250 Contact: Kevin McConnell Roofing company REFERRED BY: Sleek Media Julie McIntosh IFA Kilmarnock Tel: 07740032113 or 01563 551337 Contact: Julie McIntosh www.juliemcintosh.com Advice on investments, pensions, insurance, mortgages etc

We want to recruit more members to strengthen our business network and create more business opportunities for you. We're 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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your ayrshire business summer 2013

McColm Design Prestwick Tel: 01292 671618 Contact: Neil McColm Civil & structural engineering with architecture REFERRED BY: Referral Exchange MGM Garden Centre/Dewaldens Kilmarnock Tel: 01563 528911 Contact: Craig Paton Garden Centre Mini Messenger Glasgow Tel: 0141 556 5414 Contact: Philip Brady www.minimessenger.co.uk Mini brochure & business card New Horizons Creative Solutions Kilmarnock Tel: 01563 528801 Contact: Susan Chan www.newhorizoncreativesolutions.co.uk Personal development Peter Drummond Architects Kilmarnock Tel: 01563 898228 Contact: Peter Drummond www.pdarch.co.uk Architectural services; accredited in conservation Premier Inn Ayr Tel: 01292272300 or 01292 272315 Contact: Iain Lyons www.premierinn.com Hotel & restaurant with meeting facilities Punjab Pakora Ayr Tel: 01292 270088 Contact: Kushal Duggal Pakora manufacturer Razzamataz Theatre Schools Ayr Ayr Tel: 01292 388132 Contact: Dylan Harper www.razzamataz.co.uk Training in dance, drama and singing Rock Training Ayr Tel: 07717 557680 Contact: Chick Douglas www.rock-training.co.uk Sales training for small businesses

Ross Surveys Newmilns Tel: 07972 447673 or 01560 322665 Contact: Douglas Ross www.rosssurveys.com Asbestos Surveys REFERRED BY: Saxen Office Furniture

Routes to Flourish Glasgow Tel: 07917 385254 Contact: Alison Page www.routestoflourish.com Coaching & learning consultancy Scottish Land & Estates Musselburgh Tel: 01292 267074 Contact: Teresa Dougall www.scottishlandandestates.co.uk Membership organisation representing rural land owners Serco Home Affairs Kilmarnock Tel: 01563 548857 or 01563 548852 Contact: Neil Bolland www.serco.com Custodial services with workshop capabilities Sounding Board Associates Troon Tel: 07845948106 Contact: Pamela Anderson Business & individual coaching

South Ayrshire Women’s Aid Ayr Tel: 01292 885667 Contact: Hazel Bingham www.southayrshirewomensaid.org.uk REFERRED BY: North Ayrshire Women’s Aid

The Carrick Centre Maybole Tel: 01655 883222 Contact: Alan Murray www.carrickcentre.co.uk Community centre Up to 50% discount on facility hire

The Computer Clinic (Kilmarnock) Ltd Hurlford Tel: 01563 898132 Contact: Brian Henderson www.thecomputerclinic.co.uk Computer & network maintenance The Pooch Pantry & Kittys Cupboard Troon Tel: 01292 316611 Contact: John McLean www.thepoochpantry.co.uk Gifts for pets The Rangers FC Glasgow Tel: 0871 702 1972 Contact: Raj Athwal www.rangers.co.uk Football club The Vacuum Lifting Company Ltd Kilmarnock Tel: 01563 540400 Contact: Paul Watson www.vacuumlift.uk.com Vacuum lifting equipment manufacture

Spyro Technologies Ayr Tel: 0333 344 4131 Contact: Leigh Brown www.spyrotechnologies.co.uk Cloud based software

UK Steel Enterprise Ltd Bellshill Tel: 01698 845045 Contact: Scott Webb www.uksteelenterprise.co.uk Working in steel areas across the UK assisting job and wealth creation

Taste Ayrshire Troon Tel: 07881 278450 Contact: Sandra Ferguson www.tasteayrshire.co.uk Promote food & drink businesses around Ayrshire & Arran

Verglas Web Solutions Largs Tel: 08000246131 Contact: James Kelly www.verglas.co.uk Website design agency

Teacups Largs Tel: 01475 676178 Contact: Pauline Cumming Vintage tearoom

Wish Boutique Glasgow Tel: 01412262426 Contact: Pamela Mckay www.frockstorock.com Specialist fashion retailer

The Amatt Consultancy Prestwick Tel: 01292 474555 Contact: Tim Amatt www.amattpartnership.co.uk Recruitment consultancy

Worksmart Contracts Ltd Kilmarnock Tel: 0141 2583234 or 0141 258 3235 Contact: Lisa Neilson www.worksmartcontracts.co.uk Interior refurbishment your ayrshire business summer 2013

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Summer 2013

Events Diary

Providing you with the opportunity to meet contacts, expand your knowledge and grow your business Networking at Knockroon 13th June 5.30 - 7.30pm Host and Sponsor: Hope Homes £20 Chamber Training Academy Key to managing your WORK/LIFE balance 18th June 8.30 - 11am Venue: Ayrshire Chamber Boardroom £35 AIM for ARRAN Networking Lunch with choice of Golf or Archery 19th June 9.30am - 5.30pm Venue: Auchrannie Spa and Resort, Brodick Golf Club £40 networking lunch, or include either archery or golf for £64

First Aid at Work 3 Day H&S approved courses Running 8th – 10th July 26th – 28th August 16th – 18th September 9am – 4pm Venue: Aviator Suite, Prestwick Airport £216 per session Networking dates for your diary!

22nd August 18th September 14th November 5.30 - 7.30pm Venues to be confirmed £20 per session Ayrshire Business Week 2013 7th – 11th October Full program of events coming soon!

Prices shown are Chamber Member rates and include VAT unless otherwise stated.

To book or for more info www.ayrshire-chamber.org or call 01292 678666

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your ayrshire business summer 2013

Events round up CHAMBER partnered with Skills Development Scotland (SDS) and invited members to learn more about the freely accessible resources available to Ayrshire employers. The SDS employer engagement team provided an update on Universal Jobmatch, the new streamlined service is secure and lets you post and manage your jobs online!

Following on from the very successful meeting with Alistair Darling MP on behalf of the Better Together campaign, the Chamber invited Jim Mather on behalf of the Yes Campaign. As a YES Scotland Ambassador he listened to the views of over 40 business people, and discussed the arguments for an independent Scotland, a lively and informative debate developed!

Exporting links with Hong Kong and China was next on the agenda. Our panel of experts covered various aspects of trading with Hong Kong & China including: culture and etiquette, key markets and opportunities. Thanks to HSBC for sponsoring !

“Schmooze and Network” was hosted in the impressive Saxen showroom, Newmilns. Over 30 delegates participated in the facilitated speed networking session and enjoyed a tour of the warehouse, trying out the stylish Mesh office furniture. Thanks to Saxen for hosting!

Fun and sunshine at Northfield Bowling … Chamber goes for Bowls, this was a great opportunity to try something new, entertain clients or have a team building session at the National Bowling Centre in Ayrshire!

Members took up the challenge; learning the correct technique for rolling a lawn bowl, the object of the game, scoring and what all the various pieces of equipment are for. Thanks to Bowls Scotland for arranging and well done to winners Wade’s Print.

We invited members to Enterkine House Hotel for fish’n’chips and bubbly, before the Chamber team launched two new membership services. Moneycorp is the UK’s leading provider of Foreign Exchange services, and provides Chamber members with many competitive savings and Jumpstart are experts on the facility of claiming back tax and understanding of HMRC’s Research and Development policy and regulations.

Over 30 members gathered at the refurbished Premier Inn Ayr, our hosts for speed networking. It was great evening of facilitated networking, with a fantastic buffet served in the Thyme Restaurant. Thanks to Premier Inn for hosting.

Commerce KICKS… 5 aside football challenge. 80 players turned out for a

by Yvonne Munro Events Co-ordinator

knock out league of 12 teams at the Power League Kilmarnock. Well done to: Brownings the Bakers, Stellar Europe LLc, Eurofriction and Meiklewood Commercials, who made it to the semi-finals. Big thanks to Brownings the Bakers for providing their famous Killie Pies!

Chamber Training Academy continues to be popular, our interactive breakfast workshops in conjunction with our training partners. Recent sessions have included :- Best Practice & Core Skills for Managers by Ology Training, Managing Conflict & Performance by Square Circle HR, Business Development - Sign and be Heard and Social Media by Bread and Butter Marketing. your ayrshire business summer 2013

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Calling all companies, we need your support!

Organise a collection day of items and donate them to our Hospice Shops

Why not organise a collection day in your workplace. We welcome any donations of good quality including clothing, bric a brac, books, toys and lots more!

We also welcome items of furniture with prior uplift arranged through our shop in Ayr.

Get involved...

Step 1: Select a day for your collection Step 2: $VN VWDź LQ \RXU ZRUNSODFH WR EULQJ WKHLU LWHPV WR ZRUN ZH DUH YHU\ KDSS\ WR RUJDQLVH ż\HUV DQG SRVWHUV IRU \RX LI \RX ZLVK

Step 3: Call us to arrange a pick up from your workplace

Need further information?

Contact Jackie Kennedy, Retail Business Manager Tel: 01292 288488 Email: jackie.kennedy@ayrshirehospice.org