Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce & Industry, The Mezzanine, Glasgow Prestwick Airport, Prestwick, KA9 2PL
Mail enquiries@ayrshire-chamber.org
Call 01292 678666
Visit www.ayrshire-chamber.org
President Craig Johnstone
Chief Executive Claire Baird
Editorial kate@ayrshire-chamber.org
Ad Sales .............. lstewart@ayrshire-chamber.org
Design/Typesetting adworks.scot
Print/Distribution brown-bros.com
Front cover image Kirstie Smith
Ayrshire Chamber is delighted to continue our association with our ever-growing Platinum Partners. A bespoke programme which sees our Partners as an intrinsic part of our membership, with access to additional benefits that add significant value to their relationship with the Chamber.
Partner membership is a strategic collaboration between the Chamber and your business, working together on shared aims and objectives, placing you firmly at the heart of the Chamber. Engagement with us at this level offers opportunities to build brand exposure, demonstrate commitment to the region, establish high profile connections to grow your network and influence regional and national decision makers.
Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to welcome our newest Platinum Partners, RMC Double Glazing (Ayr) Ltd and Regency Facilities Management.
The Board of Directors is delighted to welcome the following companies as recently joined members of Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce and Industry:
FACILITIES MANAGEMENT
regencyfm.com admin@regencyfm.com
RMC DOUBLE GLAZING (AYR) LTD
www.rmcdoubleglazing.com enquiries@rmcdoubleglazing.com
Help us to strengthen your business network by referring companies who would benefit from Chamber Membership!
Call the membership team on 01292 678666 or visit www.ayrshire-chamber.org/member-benefits-services/referral-scheme.
ANDREW WRIGHT WINDOWS
FRIENDS OF THE BROADWAY PRESTWICK KA LEISURE
KENORA ENGINEERING INDUSTRIES LTD
KVCAYR LTD
SENECAENTERPRISE.COM
CANCER RESEARCH UK
CRACKIN EVENTS LIMITED
IN TIME ESCAPE ROOMS
INTERNATIONAL TRADE MATTERS LTD
LARGS VIKING FESTIVAL
Silver continued
S.M.E UK (SURFACE MOUNT ENGINEERING)
SPEEDY FREIGHT - GLASGOW & AYRSHIRE
THE BEE HIVE HOTEL
TRAIN EVERY BRAIN FOR GROWTH LTD
WELLINGTON HOUSE
BURTREE LEISURE
LTD TRADING AS CREAM O’GALLOWAY
EQUIFLO SOLUTIONS
MARR RUGBY FOOTBALL CLUB
STREAM MANAGED SERVICES LTD bronze
As the late spring and early summer sun shines over our stunning Ayrshire coastline, I am delighted to introduce this Summer Edition of our magazine - focussed on Ayrshire tourism, with a special feature on the Isle of Arran UNESCO recognition.
We’re proud to include Trump Turnberry, a jewel in the crown of the Ayrshire coast and the venue for our 2025 Annual Dinner, held in March. Supported by our principal sponsor, DYW—celebrating 10 years of delivery—the event welcomed nearly 500 members and showcased the strength of Ayrshire’s business community.
With summer holidays fast approaching, the Ayrshire Chamber is proud to support the hospitality, tourism, and leisure sectors - key pillars of our local economy. From beaches to bars to baristas, there’s no shortage of
places to meet, relax, and enjoy time with family and friends. Not to mention the elegant architecture of must-see attractions such as Culzean Castle, Dumfries House, and Burns Cottage.
According to Visit Scotland, in 2023, Ayrshire welcomed 770,000 overnight visitors, contributing £175 million to the local economy. Most visitors were domestic, with 64,000 from overseas - highlighting a promising opportunity for growth. We were delighted to welcome Vick Miller Chief Executive of Visit Scotland to Ayrshire and Arran on 11th June, where she got to see first-hand all that Ayrshire has to offer, and hear directly form the tourism sector on the challenges that they are currently facing.
We are fortunate to live and work in a region rich in heritage, culture, hospitality, and natural beauty. The Isle of Arran—our very own ‘Scotland in miniature’—exemplifies this,
attracting more than 370,000 visitors annually with its breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures.
So go on—get out there, enjoy the sun (and the occasional shower), and make the most of this unique, diverse, and vibrant destination we’re lucky to call home.
CRAIG JOHNSTONE
Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce President
By showcasing real-life stories across the national tourism organisation’s website and social media channels, and encouraging businesses to do the same, VisitScotland’s newest campaign targets those outwith the tourism and events industry, including residents across Scotland.
New YouGov research has revealed that Scottish residents recognised tourism and events as one of the most important industries driving the nation’s economy. The 2024 UK Event Report found that the events industry generates £61.653 billion annually for the economy, with £5.5 billion (9%) of that attributed to Scotland.
Vicki Miller, VisitScotland Chief Executive, said:
“The visitor economy is much more than holidays or day trips at certain times of the year. It is a sustainable long-term benefit – it’s jobs, investment, better places to live, work, visit, and happier people.
“Those working within tourism and events do an incredible job, particularly during these challenging times and this campaign is a timely reminder of the critical role our industry plays in Scotland.
“By fostering partnerships, creating jobs, and supporting local communities, the visitor economy is helping Scotland thrive—today and into the future.”
The importance of supporting our own local
Tourism and events continue to be among Ayrshire and Arran’s most powerful economic drivers, despite financial pressures.
In 2023, visitors to Ayrshire and Arran spent £323 million, supporting more than 1,000 tourism businesses and 14,000 tourism jobs across the region and stimulates additional investment.
Lynsey Eckford, VisitScotland Regional Director said:
“A vibrant visitor economy matters to us all.
“It generates a ripple effect, supporting a much wider local supply chain which includes food and drink, arts and culture, retail, construction and transport.
Lynsey added: “As an economic growth agency, VisitScotland is focusing on market development, place development and business and experience development.
“Market development means growing and diversifying Scotland’s reach in key international and domestic markets.
“Place development is working closely with our partners to deliver the Ayrshire and Our Islands Visitor Economy Strategy.
“Finally, we’ve been reviewing our approach to business support, shifting to free-to-access support for all businesses which includes webinars, workshops, networking, and our new business support hub full of tailored digital advice and support on a range of topics.
“Together, we can ensure Ayrshire & Arran remains a must-visit, must-return destination all year-round.”
To help demonstrate the importance of the visitor economy, VisitScotland is sharing real-life stories to show how the sector has created new opportunities for people and places.
For more information, please visit www.visitscotland.org/ visitor-economy
The Ayrshire Business Awards are established as the leading awards ceremony for Ayrshire business and is a highlight of the business calendar.
Attracting high profile industry support and involvement, the awards offer Ayrshire businesses the opportunity to promote major achievements and celebrate success.
We are delighted to have Business Gateway as our Principal Sponsor for this year’s awards dinner, and Ayrshire Eye Clinic as Event Partners. We also extend our thanks to our generous category sponsors, and supporting sponsors!
Applications for this year’s business awards are OPEN until 25th June!
Celebrate your business successes – APPLY TODAY!
Principal Sponsor Event Partner
Ayrshire Chamber is delighted to announce that Ayrshire Business Week is back and will run from Mon 29th Sept – Fri 3th Oct 2025.
Ayrshire Business Week provides businesses and organisations with excellent opportunities to make new business connections and celebrate their achievements.
The week will be packed with engaging events, from the very popular B2B Exhibition on Wednesday 1st October at the Park Hotel in Kilmarnock to the Ayrshire Business Awards Dinner 2025, making a return to Ayr Racecourse on Friday 3rd October.
The 2025 Ayrshire Business Week programme will launch very soon! Keep an eye on our website, social media pages and your inbox for details.
This year’s 16 fantastic categories and sponsors
Apprentice of the Year Award
Sponsored by Ashleigh (Scotland) Ltd
Ayrshire’s Growth Business of the Year Award (0-10 employees)
Sponsored by Dains Accountants
Ayrshire’s Growth Business of the Year Award (11-50 employees) – Sponsored by Business Gateway
Ayrshire’s Growth Business of the Year Award (51+ employees)
Sponsored by Woodward Inc.
Charity of the Year Award
Sponsored by Regency Facilities Management
Community Award
Sponsored by Stagecoach
Community Wealth Building Award
Sponsored by Booth Welsh
Developing Ayrshire’s Young Workforce Award
Sponsored by Developing the Young Workforce Ayrshire
Digital Innovation Award
Sponsored by Ayrshire 5GIR
Driving Sustainability Award
Sponsored by HALO
Entrepreneur of the Year Award
Sponsored by Ailsa Reliability Solutions Ltd.
Hospitality and Tourism Business of the Year Award
Sponsored by Trump Turnberry
Innovation Award
Sponsored by Wallace McDowall Limited
Resilience Award
Sponsored by The 9CC Group
Start-up Business of the Year Award
Sponsored by Ralston Contracts
Workplace Health and Wellbeing Award
Sponsored by Lighthouse IT and Network Solutions
To apply for any of the above awards, please visit https://bit.ly/ABA2025Apply
For further information on sponsorship or any aspect of Ayrshire Business Week 2025 please contact Danielle McPherson on 01292 678666 or dmcpherson@ayrshire-chamber.org
Mark your calendars and get ready to immerse yourself in a week of inspiration, celebrations, connections and growth.
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The impending UK Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) switch off is poised to usher in a significant transformation in the telecoms landscape, potentially causing major disruptions for Ayrshire businesses.
BT are advising you to move over to a fully digital service by the end of December 2025 - well in advance of the PSTN being switched off by 31 January 2027.
What other services may be affected or stop working?
Traditional phone lines aren’t just for making voice calls. There are also various
products and services that use these lines. Here are some common examples.
• Alarm systems
• EPOS machines
• Door entry systems
• CCTV monitoring
• Fax machines
Active Business Technology emerges as a beacon of reliability and innovation, offering comprehensive VoIP Telecom systems, mobile plans, and broadband solutions.
Their affordable business Hosted VoIP
system is not only up to 50% cheaper than traditional business phone systems but gives you all features in an easy to manage per user plan. Compatible with the latest business handsets with cutting-edge features.
Migration is seamless. Continuity is guaranteed as you can retain your existing phone numbers. All features such as call flows, ring groups, time conditions are fully managed at no extra cost.
For your free personalised audit and cost comparison contact the telecoms team at Active Business Technology today.
The evening brought together more than 500 business people and professionals for a night when keynote speaker Judy Murray OBE spoke about her journey and the parallels between sport and business.
Claire said: “This was an evening that spotlighted the strength, resilience and innovation of Ayrshire’s vibrant business community. Judy was an incredible speaker, talking about powerful themes that resonate deeply with entrepreneurs and business leaders alike.”
The evening, which was opened with a warm welcome from Chamber president Craig Johnstone, featured an auction and charity raffle that raised £11,149 for this year’s charity beneficiaries, Ayrshire Independent Living Network and East Ayrshire Women’s Aid.
Principal sponsor Developing the Young Workforce (DYW) Ayrshire –celebrating their 10th anniversary as a national programme – took the opportunity to address the Ayrshire business community and reflect on the impact that DYW Ayrshire has had.
Gillian Longmuir, regional lead, highlighted the importance of employers linking with schools, through DYW projects, offering work placements and apprenticeships.
The night concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks from Steven Easton, vice president of the Chamber, and entertainment by Drums and Roses, ensuring the celebrations carried on into the night.
Claire said: “Once again, it was a fantastic night with opportunities for networking and celebrating the inspiring businesses we are so proud to have in Ayrshire.”
Donnini Apartments, which rents out apartments for holidays and business across the region – as well as owning its own hotel – received Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce’s Business Excellence Award at the glittering annual dinner.
The award winners, who opened their doors in February 2017, were crowned ahead of their fellow finalists, Invincible Security Ltd and The Solutions on Demand Group.
Chamber CEO Claire Baird said: “Many congratulations to founder Jake Murray and his team for a well-deserved win. It was our 10th year presenting the award and, as ever, deciding on a winner was a tricky job, but Donnini exemplified continuous improvement and a commitment to the local community.”
The evening, at Trump Turnberry, was supported by secondary sponsor: The McKinstry Company; and a number of other event sponsors, including Blowin’ Free Gin Distillery; Arran Ice Cream; Renaldo’s; Advertising Works; The Print Room, part of The Solutions on Demand Group. The Business Excellence sponsors were Spirit AeroSystems, SAS International, UKSE and LMA Architects.
Business Excellence AWARD WINNER
Rachel Walker, Events Co-ordinator: events@ayrshire-chamber.org
Ayrshire Chamber runs a programme of informative events throughout the year. Our events allow your business to connect with other organisations, stay up-to-date with the latest business trends and upskill your workforce.
If you would like to be added to our mailing list, please email kate@ayrshire-chamber.org
Stress Awareness in the Workplace
ayrshire-chamber.org/event/stress-awareness-in-theworkplace-session-with-nhs-healthy-working-lives/ 14 AUG 9AM
Network, Connect, and Experience Something Different
ayrshire-chamber.org/event/network-connect-and-experience-some thing-different-with-ayrshire-chamber-of-commerce/ 21 AUG 10AM
Behind the Scenes at Wallace McDowall
ayrshire-chamber.org/event/behind-the-scenes-atwallace-mcdowall 27 AUG 10AM
Connect Networking at The Lochside Hotel and Spa ayrshire-chamber.org/event/connect-networking-at-the-lochsidehotel-and-spa/
Introduction to Mindfulness in the Workplace
ayrshire-chamber.org/event/introduction-to-mindfulness-in-theworkplace-workshop-with-nhs-healthy-working-lives/
Training & Development
Exciting new Training & Development programme – NOW LAUNCHED!
Full-Day Training: Change Management session
Training Partner: Lean on Me Associates
ayrshire-chamber.org/event/full-day-training-changemanagement-session-with-lean-on-me-associates
Social Media Foundations
Training Partner: The Social Media Managers ayrshire-chamber.org/event/12584
IOSH - Working Safely
Training Partner: 2020 Safety Training ayrshire-chamber.org/event/iosh-working-safely
Leadership, Management and Delegation
Training Partner: ActionCOACH
ayrshire-chamber.org/event/leadership-managementand-delegation-training-session-with-action-coach
Mastering TikTok
Training Partner: The Social Media Managers ayrshire-chamber.org/event/12585
Buy your tickets and plan your routes on our app.
Commercial interiors specialist Saxen is pleased to announce its strategic merger with the furniture refurbishment company, The Office Crowd. This partnership enhances Saxen’s capability to deliver high-quality, sustainable interior solutions throughout the United Kingdom while being sensitive to budget constraints.
“Once considered one of Scotland’s best-kept secrets, this growth is set to propel Saxen into a unique position within the industry and to the forefront of diverse net zero solutions in the UK.” –Shirley Wallace, Founding Director.
The Saxen portfolio now includes a 44,000-square-foot warehouse and workshop adjacent to its Newmilns showroom, making it the largest refurbishment facility in Scotland. This
dedicated space has enabled Saxen to create a unique service – the RefurbHub – where they now supply refurbished office chairs, soft seating, storage, and desking from high-end brands like Herman Miller, Vitra, and Steelcase. In addition, they offer an in-house restoration service where customers can have their existing furnishings revived, extending their products’ lifecycles and keeping them out of landfill.
“The furniture industry’s traditional take-makedispose model is increasingly unsustainable. This partnership leverages both companies’ extensive experience and influence to transform the lifecycle of office furnishings.” – Ross Dutton, Managing Director.
www.saxen.com
Set in the rolling countryside of East Ayrshire, Craufurdland Estate has transformed over the past seven years into a vibrant rural destination where family, food, nature, and adventure come together in harmony.
At the heart of this journey is The Laird’s Table, which celebrates its 7th anniversary on 1st June 2025. Opened in 2018, the restaurant quickly earned a loyal following for its locally sourced produce, house-made food, and relaxed, welcoming vibe. Positioned conveniently between Glasgow and Ayrshire, it soon became a popular halfway point for family and friends—“the place to meet and eat.”
In 2019, Craufurdland expanded into outdoor adventure with a highwire obstacle course, designed for all ages and abilities. Its early opening allowed the team to refine operations—though the pandemic changed plans. During COVID, the estate responded quickly: The Laird’s Table shifted from dine-in to takeaway and grocery delivery, while the highwire course adapted under SportScotland guidance and in collaboration with Go Ape.
Beyond food and adventure, Craufurdland offers something deeper: tranquility and reflection. The estate is also home to a natural woodland
Craig Tara Holiday Park have had a busy start to the season, with a number of great partnerships and announcements already in 2025.
Craig Tara Holiday Park have proudly announced their partnership with Acorn Furniture Workshop. The programme, which is run by the NHS, supports individuals overcoming mental health challenges. Their contribution has made a lasting impact not only on Craig Tara Holiday Park community but for the individuals personally.
Through the partnership, Craig Tara purchased 70 benches, which have been deployed around the park for patrons to use.
As part of this project to enhance the local area, the Craig Tara community will also be running a number of beach cleans throughout the summer months, providing a clean safe beach for our visitors to enjoy.
Craig Tara are one of biggest employers in South Ayrshire, with a current team of 620. They have also announced they will launch their summer recruitment drive, with an outlook to employ a further 150 local people. The Park is thrilled to have had the best staff retention in 2025, with over 420 team members returning to join the team at Haven.
burial ground, embracing a more sustainable, personal way to honour loved ones. Its guiding philosophy—“Recycle – plant a tree, not a gravestone”—captures the estate’s commitment to both legacy and the land.
Now, seven years on, Craufurdland remains true to its founding values of sustainability, family, locally sourced living, and discovery. Whether you're seeking a meal, a memory, or a moment of peace, Craufurdland is a place where nature, history, and heart come together.
craufurdland.co.uk
And to round off the year, Craig Tara Holiday Park are thrilled to announce they will be open for Christmas and New Year, providing a great opportunity for families to come together and enjoy well deserved time together. This will mean that the park will not close for the winter season , providing further employment for the local community.
www.haven.com/parks/scotland/craig-tara
Ayrshire is rightfully celebrated for its historical sights and coastal beauty, but travellers now want more than observation; they want to be engaged physically, mentally and emotionally. In a world shaped by instant connectivity and interactive media, travellers want immersive, participatory experiences. Writer Michelle Baran argues that the most effective of these experiences allow visitors to engage with a place’s history and traditions.
In Time Escape Room is a prime example of an interactive and immersive tourist attraction. Established in 2019 and operating from Ayr Town Centre, their games and events allow players an opportunity to engage with Ayrshire’s rich history.
Whether players are solving riddles to uncover Ayrshire’s smuggling past, racing against the clock in a 1940s Ayr Academy inspired classroom, or saving Ayr from Tam O’Shanter’s Cutty Sark, these experiences are educational, entertaining, and create opportunities for historical immersion.
These types of interactive attractions transform spectators into participants, bringing history to life. This creates deeper engagement
and positive memories, resulting in increased word-of-mouth and socialmedia sharing - raising Ayrshire’s reputation as a desirable and enticing tourist destination.
Ayrshire is full of history and legends, but also artists, designers and storytellers, waiting to bring it all to life. By developing more year-round interactive tourist opportunities, Ayrshire can boost local revenue, encourage repeat visitors, and turn those visitors into lifelong ambassadors.
www.intimeescaperooms.com
After 44 years of serving up delicious Indian food and good times, one of Ayrshire’s most loved modern Indian barrestaurants, Taj Bar & Kitchen has had major glow-up within last 10 months and now opened DeiRa Hotel & Apartments. DeiRa aptly named after its 4 original partners of The Taj, opening in July 1981, “Dei” named after Deish & Deisho - “Ra” named after Rabinder & Rani. Deish & Rabinder, the two founding brothers alongside their wives Rani & Deisho.
Now being operated by Perry Uppal, this local favourite is stepping into a brand-new role—as a boutique hotel and apartment spot, perfect for business travellers and golf lovers alike.
It’s a big change, but one that makes a lot of sense. With Ayrshire being a hotspot for world-class golf—think Royal Troon, Turnberry and of course Old Prestwick—there’s a growing need for stylish, comfortable places to stay. Add in the demand from corporate guests looking for somewhere a bit more personal than a chain hotel, and the timing feels just right.
The new space will still hold onto the warmth and charm the
restaurant was known for, but with a fresh twist. Think modern, welldesigned, spacious rooms and apartments, tailored services, and a relaxed vibe that’s ideal for winding down after a day on the golf course or a busy day of meetings.
It’s a bold move, but an exciting one. Turning a long-standing restaurant into a boutique stay is no small task, but with its rich history, loyal following, and prime location, this transformation could be exactly what Ayrshire needs. From tasty curries to comfy beds, this local landmark is ready to welcome guests in a whole new way.
www.tajprestwick.co.uk | www.deirahotel.co.uk
VisitArran is delighted to announce that the beautiful Isle of Arran has been awarded Global Geopark Status by UNESCO.
Arran has been a ‘de facto’ geopark for many years; the incredible geology providing habitat for humans and nature for thousands of years.
Robert Waine, Vice Chair of the Arran Trust, the island’s visitor gifting scheme said:
“Receiving UNESCO status for Arran is very welcome, and the Arran Trust is pleased to have supported Arran Geopark and supporting organisations who have worked to achieve this accolade.
“The Arran Trust’s role is to ensure that islanders and visitors enjoy the island whilst keeping Arran beautiful for generations to come, and UNESCO recognition will greatly support this ethos.”
Ewan McKinnon, Leader of Arran’s incredible voluntary Mountain Rescue Team, also welcomed the announcement saying:
“Arran is a special place, with astounding natural beauty. Recognition by UNESCO highlights everything Arran has to offer, and we welcome visitors who will enjoy our environment responsibly.”
VisitArran CEO Sheila Gilmore, also Chair of Arran Geopark stated:
“To gain UNESCO status is an amazing accolade and thanks must go to all those in the community who have worked and contributed in any way to this achievement. Being a Geopark is all about our people & culture, our environment, our flora and fauna – Arranology if you like – and we want our visitors to really embrace the island”
www.visitarran.com
As the summer sun brightens Ayrshire, Heads of Ayr Farm Park is set to deliver another year of family-friendly fun and adventure with an action-packed season, following the success of the recent Coochella family music festival.
The festival brought families together with music, laughter, and interactive experiences, designed to capture the magic of the festival experience in a child-friendly way. With tribute acts, engaging activities, and a lively atmosphere, over 4000 people partied the weekend away in the beautiful Scottish sunshine – no muddy fields or sleepless nights necessary!
This summer, the park continues to expand with the introduction of Wild Child Woods, an innovative treetop play area built using natural materials to seamlessly blend into the landscape. Nestled among existing trees, this exciting new space features treehouses, rope bridges, and climbing structures, providing young explorers with an immersive outdoor adventure like no other.
Looking ahead, preparations are well underway for Superhero Day on the 16th of August, promising a day of action-packed activities, themed entertainment, and plenty of heroic surprises. Families can expect an
unforgettable experience as the park transforms into a world of capes and superpowers.
Beyond its special events, Heads of Ayr Farm Park continues to offer an unmatched family experience, with a diverse collection of animals, indoor and outdoor play areas, and plenty of opportunities for adventure—rain or shine. Whether climbing high in Wild Child Woods, enjoying up-close encounters with over 60 species of weird and wonderful animals, or diving into dynamic indoor play areas, visitors can look forward to a summer full of unforgettable moments.
www.headsofayrtickets.co.uk
Helping your business to trade internationally, with ease
Our International Trade team is here to assist with all your trade documentation needs, including our new Translation Service and Consultancy Service!
We also process Certificates of Origin, EUR1s, Arab Certificates, Egyptian Documents, Verification of Trade Documents, Import and Export Declarations, Letters of Credit, and ATA Carnets.
In the first quarter of 2025, our team helped to process over 580 documents, covering goods valued at more than £720 million, travelling to countries such as Taiwan, Egypt, Singapore, China, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia!
Our International Trade Services are available to both members and non-members. A discount is offered to Ayrshire Chamber members. T&Cs apply.
We also run regular International Trade courses, to provide you, your business and your staff with the invaluable information to export and import with ease.
Upcoming online courses include:
To view and book our upcoming courses, visit us online at https://ayrshire-chamber.org/member-training/ international-trade-event/
Sign up for our International Trade mailing to stay up-todate with our International Trade services https://bit.ly/ MailingList_SignUp
For further details on any of our services, please contact ecert@ ayrshire-chamber.org or visit www. ayrshire-chamber.org/internationaltrade/
Through the Scottish Chambers of Commerce, we are a member of the renowned ‘International Chambers of Commerce’ which represents 40 million companies across 100 countries.
A range of International Trade Missions are available across the globe in 2025.
up soon:
Outward Mission
Business Mission to United States of America by Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce 29th September to 2nd October
Further Trade Missions will be announced soon.
Please visit www.exporthubscotland.com to find out more about any of the above trade missions or contact our team.
On the 25th of April, businesses from across of the Ayrshire gathered in our boardroom for a lively discussion on the newly announced US Tariffs.
This session, led by William Bain, Head of Trade Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), provided a platform for our members to voice concerns about the US Tariffs, share experiences, and better understand the national advocacy being led by the BCC.
Businesses in our region, particularly those in the automotive supply chain, are already feeling the effects - reporting lost orders, income reductions, and potential job losses.
The insights shared during the April session were indeed powerful and, at times,
deeply concerning, highlighting how pressing the issue of US Tariffs is on local businesses across a broad range of industries.
Thank you to thank William Bain for taking the time to provide this informative briefing for local businesses, and to the BCC for their continued support.
Members are encouraged to explore the BCC’s US Tariff Explainer for the latest developments and available support: https:// www.britishchambers.org.uk/us-tradetariffs-and-the-global-economy/
In addition to the above session, we are running a further follow-up event on US Tariffs, on 27th June from 11am to 1pm.
Book via www.ayrshire-chamber.org/event/update-on-us-tariffs-with-bcc
In the fast-paced world of hospitality and tourism, staying ahead means continually evolving. Standing out and staying competitive in this difficult landscape takes more than just passion - it takes guidance too.
Available to Silver tier members and above, Connect Me business mentoring from Ayrshire Chamber pairs business owners and professionals with experienced mentors who offer practical advice, industry insights, and a sounding board for your ideas.
Mentors offer not only advice, they offer encouragement and real-life experience, having run and supported successful businesses across Ayrshire from a range of sectors.
They understand the challenges you face because they’ve overcome them themselves. They know the highs and lows of growing a business.
Whether you’re running a local hotel, managing a growing visitor attraction, or leading a food and drink enterprise, having a
mentor is an opportunity to gain clarity for your business – don’t miss out on Connect Me!
For Ayrshire’s vibrant hospitality and tourism sector, Connect Me isn’t just a serviceit’s a partnership for long-term success.
Visit www.ayrshire-chamber.org/ membership-hub/businessmentoring
Reach out via Membership@ayrshirechamber.org Call 01292 678666
From 2026, thousands of landlords, sole traders and property owners will be pulled into Making Tax Digital for Income Tax (MTD IT), and the shift is much more than a formality.
This is about how you run your finances, quarterly digital updates to HMRC, real-time records, cloud-based systems. For some, it will feel like a burden. For others, it will be a turning point.
But here’s the truth: compliance is only part of the story. The bigger opportunity is better visibility, better decisions, and fewer
tax-time surprises. That only happens when you’ve got the right systems and the right accountant guiding the way.
The clock is now ticking, and proactive planning is everything.
Neil Reid, Partner at Dains, Scotland:
“Making Tax Digital has been on the horizon for a while now, but now we have final dates to work with, the earlier landlords and sole trader businesses consider this the better. To plan for this, rather than react close to deadline, will make the transition far easier and less stressful for business owners. Even
University of the West of Scotland (UWS) is Ayrshire’s anchor institution for digital capacity building. Our new £1 million funded Digital Connectivity Innovation Centre (DCIC) offers:
• 5G testing and trial opportunities to explore the potential of next-generation connectivity
• Specialised training workshops tailored to industry needs
• Collaborative Knowledge Transfer Partnership projects to help businesses thrive in the digital age
Visit the DCIC and see how we can support your business needs. Email dcic@uws.ac.uk to book your visit.
if it doesn’t apply to a business just now, it will do in the not-too-distant future with a phased implementation planned for smaller businesses and eventually partnerships.”
Dains has been leading clients through digital transition for years, not because HMRC demanded it, but because it works. We’re cloud-first, people-focused, and ready to help you prepare.
If you’re unsure whether this affects you, talk to Dains and get ahead before the deadline.
www.dains.com
Contact our Business Innovation team for information on fully funded opportunities:
• Short courses to upskill your team
• Workplace learning towards a degree
• Knowledge transfer for innovation projects business@uws.ac.uk | www.uws.ac.uk/business
Founded in 1946, McTaggart Construction has built a reputation for delivering high-quality homes across Scotland. With a commitment to quality and sustainability, the company has carved a prominent niche in the industry, honing its blend of expert construction skills and communitycentric values.
McTaggart Construction take pride in their commitment to building not just homes, but also strong, vibrant communities. With a legacy entrenched in excellence and a vision focused on sustainable development, they are dedicated to shaping a better future for Ayrshire and beyond.
Testament of their dedication to enriching communities is the recent collaboration with South Ayrshire Council at Adamton Road in Prestwick. The project sees the previous St Ninian’s school site reborn as a modern, progressively designed affordable housing development, comprising 42 homes tailored to meet the diverse needs of residents.
The development at St Ninian’s not only offers a mix of affordable homes but also provides accessible accommodation, ensuring inclusivity and diversity within the community. Beyond the tangible results of the project –such as job creation and economic value – the collaboration has bolstered local businesses in Ayrshire, aligning with McTaggart Construction’s mission to strengthen the regional economy.
The development sets a new standard for eco-friendly construction, boasting impressive compliance levels in relation to carbon emissions and waste management. With over 97% of waste being reused or recycled, the project exemplifies McTaggart Construction’s dedication to global sustainability, alongside their commitment to creating sustainable communities more locally.
St Ninian’s project serves as a shining example of how affordable housing can coexist harmoniously with sustainable living, setting the stage for continued growth and progress in the region.
www.mctaggartgroup.co.uk
Based in Prestwick, Hosted Scotland is a local Ayrshire success story, quietly growing into one of the region’s most trusted names in IT and telecoms. With a team of eight and roots going back to 2010 under the ITW4 brand, the company has been supporting Ayrshire businesses for over a decade. Since formally incorporating Hosted Scotland in 2014, they’ve remained firmly committed to their Prestwick base - proving that cutting-edge tech support doesn’t have to come from a big city.
Hosted Scotland works exclusively with businesses, offering IT and telecoms solutions tailored to suit the needs of each client. From
small firms with just a few staff to large, multi-location operations, their customer base includes local limited companies, charities, councils, national businesses, and even a few multinationals. Regardless of size or sector, every client gets the same dedicated, local service.
A recent example is their work with the Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce. Referred by another happy customer, the Chamber approached Hosted Scotland in need of a new phone system. Their existing ISDN system was no longer supported - something many businesses may face with the upcoming switch-off - and they needed local expertise they could trust.
Hosted Scotland delivered a modern, flexible
“The transition to Hosted Scotland’s phone system was seamlessreliable, local support made all the difference”
VoIP solution. The Chamber kept their existing number, gained features like automated call routing, voicemail-to-email, and mobile call forwarding - all managed from an easy-to-use system. While it wasn’t about cutting costs, the Chamber were surprised by the savings that have been made. Best of all, the transition was smooth, and support needs have been minimal since setup.
www.hostedscotland.co.uk
Hosted Scotland is helping Ayrshire businesses futureproof their phone systems with modern, flexible VoIP solutions - backed by local, responsive support.
Whether you’re a small team or a multi-site organisation, switching to VoIP doesn’t just keep you connected - it puts you in control.
• Save money
• Keep your existing phone number
• Answer calls on your mobile or office phone
• Voicemails sent straight to your email
• Add numbers in new locations as you grow
• Future proof
Schools out for Summer! Well not quite yet but it is fast approaching, and I am sure I speak on behalf of my whole team that we are all looking forward to some nicer weather (hopefully) and maybe some well-deserved time off.
Quarter 4 has been a busy time for DYW. In January DYW turned 10 nationally and there has been a lot of celebrations across the network. Locally we were delighted to be Principal Sponsor for the Ayrshire Chamber Annual Dinner in March. A night of celebration and entertainment along with a speech from both Mike Stewart, DYW Chair and
myself. Our intent on the night was to inspire the 500 business people in the room to get involved with us and we were delighted with the response. It was a privilege to represent our many partners and of course my own team, who work tirelessly to create invaluable learning and training opportunities for young people across Ayrshire. We also had the opportunity to unveil our new DYW promotional video hearing directly from young people who have benefitted from the support of DYW over the past decade.
Aside from the celebrations there has been a lot of hard work in the background pulling together our 3 big annual
events aimed at promoting careers and pathways to young people, parents and carers. These events will feature over the following page in more detail, but I want to take this opportunity to thank my team, our partners and of course the employers who make these types of events such a success.
Gillian Longmuir, Head of Projects
From 12th to 16th May, DYW Ayrshire proudly ran a social media campaign celebrating Work Experience Week 2025. This was supported by our host organisation, Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce.
Throughout the week, we showcased highlights from the school work placement programme, offering insight
into the importance of the programme for both employers and young people as well as the valuable opportunities available to young people across Ayrshire.
The campaign aimed to shine a spotlight on the real-world skills pupils are developing and the incredible support from local employers who
make these placements possible. The week gave behind the scenes insights and saw a number of pupils on their placement.
To see the stories and successes shared during the week, search #WEW25 on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram or X.
Early 2025 marked the successful return of the annual Information Evenings, delivered in partnership with DYW Ayrshire and South, East, and North Ayrshire Councils. These inclusive events welcomed young people, parents/carers, and educators from across the region to explore the wide range of local career opportunities.
We extend our sincere thanks to all the partners who contributed to the success of these events.
Now in its third year, South Ayrshire Futures was held on Wednesday 5th February from 5–7:30pm at Ayr Racecourse. The first section of the evening was dedicated to supporting individuals facing barriers to employment. The remainder of the event was open to the wider community and attracted over 600 attendees, who had the opportunity to connect with 51 employers.
One attendee shared:
I want to express my thanks to all the staff on the different stands. Everyone who spoke with my 14-year-old was engaging, interested, and helpful, offering excellent advice. Not one business failed to impress—I’m genuinely proud of the talent we have in the Shire.
Pathways to Careers, now in its second year, took place on Wednesday 19th February from 5–7:30pm at Ayrshire College Kilmarnock. Like the other events, it began with a session specifically for those facing employment challenges, followed by the main event open to all. Over 450 attendees engaged with 52 local employers.
A parent remarked:
I wanted to learn more about the options available for my son, who’s heading into S4 this May. I’ll definitely be back at future events.
Returning for its third year, Your Next Move was held on Wednesday 5th March from 5–7:30pm at Ayrshire College Kilwinning. The event began with focused support for those facing employment barriers, before opening to the general public. More than 800 attendees took part, engaging with 45 employers.
One parent commented:
We were very worried about our son’s future, but we left feeling hopeful. Every stand was welcoming, informative, and supportive.
Thanks to the overwhelming success of these events, we are excited to confirm that the Information Evenings will return in early 2026.
The 2024/25 Ayrshire Apprenticeship Challenge, sponsored by Skills Development Scotland, culminated in an exciting final on Tuesday 4th March 2025 at the Ayr United Hospitality Suite, coinciding with Scottish Apprenticeship Week.
Organised by DYW Ayrshire, the event celebrated months of commitment and hard work, dedicated by apprentices from businesses across Ayrshire where they identify, plan, and execute a project that positively impacts the local community. The Challenge is open to teams of 1 or more, providing a platform to showcase their talents and develop their skillset.
8 teams of apprentices participated in the Challenge, representing: Alex Begg, Ayrshire College Hairdressing, Collins Aerospace, GSK, Kelvin TOP-SET, Shire Housing, South Ayrshire Council and Spirit AeroSystems.
Apprentices were encouraged to source their project and step out with their comfort zone to hone new skills. Initiatives included:
Alex Begg – The team improved a garden for Aberlour Children’s Charity, fundraising and developing outdoor spaces for children.
GSK – Organised a STEM Week for local schools, offering hands-on activities and career insights, plus an information session for parents.
Kelvin Topset – Logan created a web-based quiz to educate children on plastic pollution, integrating real data from a local clean-up group.
Shire Housing – Amy raised funds for Alloway Tunnel improvements by organising a sponsored walk, increasing footfall and community engagement.
Spirit AeroSystems – Built a memorial bench and mobile memory tree for Megan’s Space charity, supporting mental health and remembrance initiatives.
Ayrshire College – Hairdressing apprentices provided free salon experiences including a lunch for families in need while fundraising for essential resources for a nursery.
South Ayrshire Council – Painted a dropin hub for adults with additional needs by designing and painting welcoming murals and walls.
Collins Aerospace – Ran a five-week Skills Workshop for S3 pupils, mentoring them through hands-on engineering activities and career guidance.
To support participants, workshops in Leadership, Resilience and Presentation Skills ran by Ayrshire College were offered to all participants equipping them with valuable professional development opportunities. Teams were required to submit a supporting portfolio and then at the final present to the judging panel which featured: Angela Cox, Principal and Chief Executive of Ayrshire College, Claire Baird, Chief Executive of Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce and Claire Tooze, Area Manager of Skills Development Scotland.
With an impressive lineup of projects, the judges faced a tough decision but after much deliberation presented the awards to:
• Most Innovative Project: Kelvin TOP-SET
• Best Individual Presentation: Kelvin TOP-SET
• Best Team Presentation: Collins Aerospace
• Best Overall Project: Alex Begg
Gillian Longmuir at DYW Ayrshire, said: This year’s Challenge has been a testament to the talent and dedication of apprentices across Ayrshire.
Congratulations to all participants in the 2025 Ayrshire Apprenticeship Challenge!
A special well done to Kelvin TOP-SET, Collins Aerospace, and Alex Begg for their outstanding achievements.
Register your interest to participate in the 2026 Ayrshire Apprenticeship Challenge.
QTS was delighted to welcome young people from Auchenharvie Academy to their Drumclog HQ recently.
The tour, organised by Workforce Development Co-Ordinator Jane McFadzean, gave the pupils an insight into what it’s like to work on a real functioning site. This experience proved extremely useful to the pupils who are a part of the newest DYW innovative project Harvies Precision Crafts from Auchenharvie Academy.
The group were also able to meet and chat with some of the welders, mechanics and civil engineers working at QTS.
The site tour included seeing the test track where relevant railway training takes place every day and a walkthrough of the plant and HGV workshops where the young people were able to see real people at work.
QTS believes that the DYW innovative projects and their pupils need strong business links, young people need to know the reality of the working world and how the skills they’re learning will fit in to an organisation.
Jane McFadzean, QTS Group
It was incredibly inspirational for both myself and the pupils. I now have a few pupils who are keen to do a work placement, with a view to applying for the apprenticeship scheme. I have had interest from pupils in the year below who have heard about our visit and have also asked to come along one day.
When I took over as Principal Teacher of Design & Technology, one of my key goals was to establish genuine workplace connections. My school is located in an area of high deprivation, and having direct links to employers like QTS provides a clear pathway for our young people. I am passionate about providing our young people with opportunities, and last week’s site visit did exactly that.
Once again, thank you for your hospitality and I would love to take another group for a visit again in the near future.
David Marwick, Auchenharvie Academy
DYW Ayrshire would like to congratulate QTS on winning the Corporate Social Responsibility Award for their outstanding Future of Rail event series. They took home the trophy at the Spotlight Rail Awards on Thursday 20th March 2025.
The Modern Languages Department at Belmont Academy partnered up with Stewart Travel to hold the first ever “S3 Travel and Tourism Challenge”. In collaboration with DYW, Stewart Travel came in to present to S3 and describe what it’s like to be a travel agent. They also spoke about all the different careers and pathways available at Stewart Travel, described their own experiences and answered pupils’ questions. Then they set the challenge: choose a brief and plan a holiday, creating a poster and PowerPoint to be presented to their class,
the winning group from each class then progressed to the final. This brief included the clients, budget, dates etc as well as planning an additional excursion. During the final, pupils presented to their entire year group as well as a panel of judges including Stewart Travel representatives and the Head Teacher. The winners chosen were: Ioanna, Elise, Millie and Hannah – congratulations! They were presented with a trophy, some treats and a £25 gift card. Pupils really enjoyed exploring the cultural and travel side of Modern Languages in a real-life context and did a great
job researching and presenting. So good that Stewart Travel has agreed to partner up again and make this an annual event!
Jade OHara, Belmont Academy
On March 19th, 2025, Trump Turnberry Resort proudly hosted its much-anticipated Annual Recruitment Open Day, drawing an impressive crowd of 450 attendees eager to explore the exciting career pathways available at the prestigious Forbes 5-star Resort. The event was an overwhelming success, thanks to the invaluable support and collaboration of local schools, colleges, and partner organisations. Attendee feedback consistently praised the warmth and professionalism of our team, who ensured everyone felt welcomed and experienced the true spirit of Turnberry hospitality.
Attendees had the opportunity to connect with a wide range of departments, including Spa, Golf, Greenkeeping, Events, Kitchen, Front Office, Maintenance, Stewarding, Housekeeping, and Food & Beverage. Attendees took part in interactive experiences such as technical challenges, guided tours, and on-the-day interviews. Adding to the day’s excitement, the Turnberry Kitchen team delighted guests with a selection of culinary creations to sample throughout the event.
The Open Day is aimed to inspire and equip attendees with the confidence to pursue their career goals, offering an immersive look into the dynamic and fulfilling world of
hospitality at one of the UK’s leading resorts.
Lisa Agnew, Trump Turnberry
At Jackton Moor, we are passionate about developing the next generation of talent, which is why we recently took part in a school work placement programme with Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce. This initiative gave Prestwick Academy, student, Jamie the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in our industry while providing us with fresh perspectives and insights.
Engaging with young people through work placements benefits our business in many ways. It allows us to showcase career opportunities with
our company, inspire future professionals and identify talented individuals early on.
In fact, our own Business Development Manager, Barry McAlear, begin his career through a similar young placement programme. His journey highlights the real impact that early work experience can have, shaping careers and opening doors to long-term success.
We are committed to providing career pathways for school leavers and equipping them with the skills and experience needed to thrive in the workplace. This programme
Mecoco is probably the most diverse workplace in the whole of Ayrshire if not Scotland.
Louise Brown, Wax Wizard said Disabled and nondisabled colleagues work together to make wonderful home fragrances including candles, wax melts and reed diffusers. Our workforce includes people of all ages, including pupils from Lockhart Campus in Stevenson who attend in 4 week rotations to complete their work experience.
It is our great pleasure to welcome them into a space which is specially adapted to meet their needs – from staff who understand the challenges and barriers which people with additional support needs face and are able to communicate
and support them fully to tools and processes which mean, no matter their ability, they are able to play a meaningful role in the production process.
John Herd, DHT at Lockhart School agrees
For pupils with ASN, it is crucial to provide pathways that develop their skills, qualities, and experiences, while fostering their confidence and independence.
Strong partnerships are essential to achieving this, and our collaboration with Mecoco has been a remarkable success in supporting young people with ASN. Their work experience programme provides a safe, supportive, and inspiring environment where pupils can thrive. The
has reinforced our belief in the value of investing in young talent, and we look forward to welcoming more students in the future.
If you are a student or parent interested in learning more about opportunities with us, we would love to hear from you!
Barry McAlear, Business Development Manager
programme not only enhances their wellbeing, confidence, and communication skills but also raises aspirations and equips them with practical skills and experience. This has a profound impact on their personal growth and helps to prepare them for positive post-school destinations. Through this partnership, we are creating meaningful opportunities that empower our learners, helping them achieve success and raise their aspirations.
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In a historic leap forward for ophthalmology in Scotland, the Ayrshire eye clinic has successfully performed cataract surgery on both eyes of a patient using the revolutionary ZIEMER FEMTO LDV Z8 laser system—marking the first use of this cuttingedge technology in the country.
This state-of-the art femtosecond laser represents a paradigm shift in how cataract surgeries are performed. Traditionally, cataract surgery involves the use of a handheld blade to make corneal incisions and access the cloudy lens. While effective, this method comes with the inherent limitations of manual precision and variability. The ZIEMER FEMTO LDV Z8 changes everything.
In all-in-one femtosecond laser platform, the Z8 offers unparalleled precision, safety, and customization for refractive, cataract, and therapeutic surgeries. Its application in cataract surgery is particularly groundbreaking: rather than relying on a blade, the Z8 uses laser pulses to make incisions with microscopic accuracy, reducing tissue trauma, enhancing wound healing, and potentially improving visual outcomes for patients.
The recent bilateral cataract surgery marks a significant milestone not just for the clinic, but for Scotland’s broader medical community. The use of this advanced technology underscores a commitment to delivering world-class eye care and opens new avenues for the treatment of patients with complex or high-risk ocular conditions.
For patients, this means shorter recovery
times, improved safety, and outcomes tailored more precisely to their individual eye anatomy.
www.ayrshireeyeclinic.com
Launch Digital recently partnered with Ardgowan Distillery, a premium Scotch whisky producer based in Inverclyde, Scotland, to elevate its digital presence ahead of its highly anticipated distillery launch. The goal was to create a compelling, user-focused website that reflected the heritage, craftsmanship, and innovation behind Ardgowan’s brand while supporting e-commerce and investor engagement.
Launch began with a discovery phase to understand Ardgowan’s story, vision, and target audience. The resulting website features a sleek, modern design that
mirrors the distillery’s blend of tradition and innovation. With rich imagery, elegant typography, and seamless navigation, the site immerses users into the world of Ardgowan whisky. Key integrations included an online shop, interactive timeline, investor portal, and newsletter sign-up to grow engagement and conversions.
One standout feature is the interactive timeline, which traces Ardgowan’s journey from concept to cask. It allows visitors to engage with the distillery’s narrative in a personal and meaningful way, building anticipation for its first releases.
Throughout the process, Launch Digital
provided strategic guidance on content, SEO, and UX best practices. In bringing Ardgowan’s vision to life online, Launch Digital has not only built a website, but they’ve also laid a strong digital foundation for one of Scotland’s most exciting new whisky ventures.
Ardgowan are holding an Open Day and Launch on the 20th June 2025. Learn more at https://www.ardgowandistillery.com/openday/
www.launchscotland.com
Would you like to be involved with an organisation that is committed to delivering good quality, affordable homes with excellent customer service in Kilmarnock and its surrounding areas?
Collectively, our Board is responsible for exercising scrutiny, establishing organisational strategy and objectives, and for monitoring operational performance. We would love to add an experienced finance professional or a local business leader looking to make a difference to the lives of people living in our communities, to our Board.
This is an exciting time as our Board will be setting Atrium’s strategy for 2026 onwards and so you will have an opportunity to be involved in shaping the services we provide to our customers.
If you would like to know more, please contact us at recruitment@atrium-homes.co.uk or call Shannon Watson on 01563 528816.
atrium-homes.co.uk
June 8th, 2025, an event was held within the heart of Ayrshire. The Thistle Credit Union team strapped on their running shoes and 6-inch seam shorts and ran a scenic 10 Kilometre route of Sunny ‘Killie.
Following the opening of Thistle Credit Union’s brand-new branch on King Street, Kilmarnock, the team wanted to get involved in local activities and show support to their new neighbours. It became an exciting opportunity to strengthen bonds and encourage personal fitness.
Crossing the finish line, the team were filled with an overwhelming sense of pride and teamwork!
Keep your eye on the Thistle CU team, as they will also be taking part in the ‘It’s a knockout’ event, hosted by Ayrshire Hospice on June 21st, Ayr.
For any office team looking to build camaraderie and boost morale. Lace up your running shoes and take on the 10K challenge with your colleagues - you’ll be amazed at what you can accomplish together. www.thistlecu.co.uk
