Your Business Spring 2015

business your

spring 2015 £2

the magazine of Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce and Industry

“An excellent opportunity for local modern apprentices to showcase their newly acquired skills.”

WE’VE LAUNCHED THE MODERN APPRENTICESHIP CHALLENGE FOR 2015 - See page five for details www.ayrshire-chamber.org

ALSO INSIDE: BUSINESS MENTORING, ANNUAL DINNER

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

Waiyin Hatton

Chief Executive

Valerie Russell

Development Manager

Helen McBride

MAGAZINE Editorial Content: acameron@ayrshire-chamber.org

Ad Sales:

Design & Typesetting:

nsykes@ayrshire-chamber.org

Adver tisingworks Scotland Ltd

www.advertisingworks.co.uk

Print & Distribution: www.brown-bros.com

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

Our mission is to be the voice of business in Ayrshire - adding real value by involving and supporting members to drive their growth in both national and international markets.

Building relationships and developing meaningful business connections are at the heart of all we do. As a Chamber member you are well connected!

We are proud to remain the largest non-city centre Chamber in Scotland!

Over 800 members in our network!

At the Chamber we truly believe in the strength of the network of both public and private sector organisations who are currently working together to ensure Ayrshire is in the best possible shape to grasp new opportunities as we creep out of the recession; growing and creating both new jobs and new businesses.

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The largest non-city centre Chamber in Scotland with over 800 members!

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Forging new alliances and partnerships is never easy and these relationships must be built on transparency and trust. Our economic upturn will come from within and will be led by local business people but with support from our public sector colleagues.

Like many we are in business planning and budget mode and I thank all members who took time out to complete our recent membership survey and those who also took part in the Scottish Chambers Quarterly Economic Survey. Results from both will shape the coming year and beyond to ensure we

ACCI VAL RUSSELL CHIEF EXECUTIVE

are delivering what you our members need to support your business growth.

We will listen to the issues you want us to lobby on and create a programme of events and training to support your workforce to develop the skills required to grow your business.

Our 2014/15 programme is certainly ending on a high with January seeing 120 attending the first networking session of the year at Kilmarnock Football Club and a record breaking dinner of almost 600 at our Annual Dinner – Mr Donald Trump may have assisted!

One of our strategic priorities this year will be working with key stakeholders to support our young people. This support will take many forms and we hope employers will play a key role in ensuring they have the skills and attitude required to succeed in the world of work. We must nurture young talent and keep it in Ayrshire.

We look forward to working with you all in 2015 and beyond.

My door is always open. Please don’t wait for a CRM call from the membership team or next year’s survey to let us know if we can help.

YOUR BUSINESS | SPRING 2015

CONTACTS

PART OF SOMETHING BIG!

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CHAMBER NEWS

CHAMBER STAKE IN AIRPORT’S FUTURE Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce met up with the recently appointed Cabinet Secretary for Infrastructure, Investment and Cities, Keith Brown, when he visited Glasgow Prestwick Airport in February.

Mr Brown MSP was given a tour of the facility during his first visit to Ayrshire in his new post and met with the airport’s internal and external stakeholders.

The Scottish Government took the airport into public ownership in November 2013, a move that safeguarded around 1350 jobs directly and indirectly linked to the business.

Val Russell, CEO of Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce said: “Glasgow Prestwick Airport is an important hub for the local economy. Ayrshire Chamber is committed to working with the

airport to ensure sustainability, safeguarding of jobs but more importantly to support growth and development of the airport and the aerospace sector in Ayrshire.”

seeing it grow and develop in the future.”

Mr Brown said: “I felt it was important to visit Glasgow Prestwick Airport myself in my new post. We are confident there is a place for Glasgow Prestwick Airport in the evolving Scottish aviation market and look forward to

Andrew Miller, Chairman of Glasgow Prestwick Airport, said: “I firmly believe it has a bright future and my priority is to see it return to profitability and become a busy and prosperous strategic anchor for economic growth in Ayrshire and Scotland.”

Management at the airport are actively pursuing commercial opportunities, including the Spaceport project.

Ayrshire Business Awards sponsorship

YOUR BUSINESS | SPRING 2015

BE PART OF THE AYRSHIRE BUSINESS AWARDS

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Preparations are underway for the Ayrshire Business Awards 2015 and there are still plenty of opportunities for YOU to get involved.

The Business Awards, part of Ayrshire Business Week, celebrates the region’s finest businesses and is now in its sixth year and continues to grow from strength to strength.

This year’s awards will take place on Thursday th 8 October at Seamill Hydro and a small number of categories remain without sponsorship.

Award category sponsorship is still available and includes the following benefits: • 5 Complimentary tickets at the Awards Dinner on 8th October 2015

• On screen branding on a rotational reel shown throughout the course of the evening • An award category to sponsor and the opportunity to participate in the judging process • Promotion of your company in the Business Awards programme • Your company logo will be displayed on all Ayrshire Business Awards 2015 literature and correspondence • Your company logo with link to your website, on the applicable pages of the official Ayrshire Business Awards web pages and on the Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce website

Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce Chief Executive, Val Russell said: “The Ayrshire Business Awards has become an important fixture in our business calendar.

“The success of this is evident as it continues to grow and grow each year. This year promises to be no different and will be the best yet.

“Almost 400 guests attended last year at Seamill Hydro giving great exposure for award sponsors.”

Sponsorship packages can be discussed by contacting Laura Mills at Entourage UK on 0141 887 6181 or e-mail laura@entourageuk.com

CALLING ALL MODERN APPRENTICES IN AYRSHIRE!

The search for the Ayrshire’s top Modern Apprentices is underway.

The Ayrshire Modern Apprenticeship Challenge aims to develop and strengthen links between Ayrshire businesses and their communities by setting the challenge to deliver a project of community benefit.

Entrants have six months to carry out their project between Monday 2nd March and Monday 31st August, when a portfolio must be submitted. The final will be held in autumn.

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A fantastic opportunity to highlight the skills of young people.

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Supported by Skills Development Scotland and Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce the aims of this challenge are to demonstrate the quality of apprentices/ trainees employed in Ayrshire, forge links between local companies and local communities and to encourage more young people to consider a Modern Apprenticeship.

Gillian Cameron, Business Liaison Officer at Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce, explained: “The Modern Apprenticeship Challenge is an excellent opportunity for local modern apprentices to showcase their newly acquired

skills for the benefit of their local communities.

“The project sponsors and the Modern Apprentices thoroughly enjoy their time together during the planning and installation/delivery phases which also helps to promote citizenship within local communities.”

Skills Development Scotland area manager for Ayrshire, Pat McPhee, added: “Modern Apprenticeships benefit businesses, young people and the Ayrshire economy.

“The challenge is a fantastic opportunity to highlight the skills of young people and the commitment employers make to training and to contributing to the local economy.”

Full details of the Modern Apprenticeship Challenge can be found at ayrshire-chamber. org or by contacting Gillian on 01292 678 666

5 YOUR BUSINESS | SPRING 2015

Modern Apprenticeship Challenge 2015

NEWS

REACH FOR THE SKY - 2015 SCOTTISH AIRSHOW IS NOW CONFIRMED

YOUR BUSINESS | SPRING 2015

The 2015 Scottish Airshow will be bigger than ever before - thanks to a major funding agreement and hopes to attract 100,000 people over the 5th and 6th of September.

A breakthrough funding agreement with South Ayrshire Council has enabled the Scottish Airshow organisers to guarantee an enhanced event based again in Ayr and Glasgow Prestwick airport.

Bob Alexander, Chairman of the Scottish Airshow committee, praised the local authority for their support of the event and their determination to see it remain in Ayrshire.

He said: “South Ayrshire Council has shown great determination to secure the 2015 event.

Without the support and assistance of those companies and people we could not have brought the event together. More than 50,000 people attended the free Airshow at the Low Green on the Saturday and 10,000 people at Glasgow Prestwick Airport on the Sunday.

“The 2014 show brought millions of pounds into Ayrshire.”

And organisers believe they will put together one of the best line ups yet and have some exciting announcement to make. Danny Anderson from the Scottish Airshow team said: “We have been working for months to bring the highest class of ground and airborne entertainment to Ayr in

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reveal the 2015 line up.

September. By next month we expect to have confirmed many of the contracts and we will

Councillor Bill McIntosh, Leader of South Ayrshire Council said: “The Scottish Airshow was a resounding success last year. Events such as this one are good for our local economy, with local businesses enjoying the benefits.”

AYRSHIRE’S PRINCE’S TRUST CHAIRMAN RETIRES Ayrshire Chamber CEO Val Russell wished a fond farewell and happy retiral to Ayrshire’s Prince’s Trust Chairman David Campbell after 25 years’ service with HRH’s charity.

There’s never enough time.

Let’s make some.

Want to grow your business? Start here.

Business Gateway Ayrshire has a wealth of resources, fresh perspectives and new ideas to help growing businesses – all of which can be tailored to your needs. We also have qualified growth advisers who understand the challenges growing businesses face.

To find out more, call now on 01292 427 552 or visit www.bgateway.com/ayrshire

Download our free business support app.

Business Advice • Networking • Events • Routes to Finance • HR • Sales & Marketing

GOING FOR GOLD

Businesses from across Ayrshire were commended for their efforts in achieving healthy workplaces at NHS Ayrshire & Arran’s Healthy Working Lives annual awards ceremony.

Thirteen Ayrshire companies accepted awards in recognition of their achievements at the event, held at the Fenwick Hotel.

PARTN 4 BUSI ER

Anne Clarke, Senior Manager from NHS Ayrshire & Arran’s Public Health Department, chaired the event, explained: “The Healthy Working Lives programme supports employers and employees to develop healthier lifestyles in the workplace in a practical, logical way that benefits staff members, the companies themselves and the wider community.

“It is a fantastic achievement to have seven gold winning companies in Ayrshire this year. We’re also delighted to have had all three finalists of the Scottish Health Award – Health in the Workplace from Ayrshire based companies. John Miller of EDF Energy was the winning recipient from last week’s awards ceremony in

NESS

Edinburgh and EDF Energy also picked up a Gold Healthy Working Lives Award.”

Steve Bell, Strategic Director of Scottish Centre of Healthy Working Lives, provided opening remarks and presented awards to the following companies: EAST AYRSHIRE Healthy Working Lives Silver Award: • Webhelp UK NORTH AYRSHIRE Healthy Working Lives Silver Award: • North Ayrshire Leisure Limited trading as KA Leisure Healthy Working Lives Gold Award: • Accountant in Bankruptcy • EDF Energy Nuclear Generation Ltd – Hunterson B Power Station

• Irvine Housing Association • North Ayrshire Council • North Ayrshire Women’s Aid SOUTH AYRSHIRE Healthy Working Lives Bronze Award: • Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce • Electro Installations (Scotland) Ltd • Fosterplus • Spirit Aerosystems Healthy Working Lives Gold Award: • Ayrshire Housing • NATS Prestwick Centre To find out more about the free and confidential services that the Healthy Working Lives programme can provide, call 01292 885855 or email AA-UHB. HWL@nhs.net.

Shire Housing Shire Housing Association Ltd

Voluntary Board Members Required

YOUR BUSINESS | SPRING 2015

If you interested in housing and possess a skill set that you think could help us to maintain an excellent standard of governance and set the strategic direction for a business with a turnover in excess of £4m then read on!

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Shire Housing is based in Cumnock and owns and manages just under 1000 properties available for social renting. Working with tenants, the local authority and local communities we aim to provide a choice of high quality housing and services for our customers.

We are currently looking for new board members to come and help us achieve our objectives. If you are interested in joining us on a voluntary basis and would like more information about us and our ambitions, then why not contact us.

Netherthird House, Netherthird, Cumnock, KA18 3DB | Tel: 01290 421130 Email: info@shirehousing.com | Web: www.shirehousing.co.uk

Pensions, and the way people can access the money in them, are going through the most radical changes in over a century. The new 4 BUSIN measures, which come into effect in April ESS 2015, represent a complete overhaul of the UK’s current system, giving people much more control over their pension savings than ever before.

PARTN ER

CONSIDER LOCAL CHARITY

South Ayrshire Women’s Aid is a registered Charity providing support, refuge and advocacy services to women, children & young people with experience of Domestic Abuse.

Like many voluntary organisations, their services have been greatly affected by funding cuts in recent years.

As you know, a minimum charge of 5p per carrier bag is now payable by consumers, and as such South Ayrshire Women’s Aid would like your business to consider donating monies raised to their Charity.

This is an opportunity to contribute not only to a greener community, but also to provide real practical support to those in need on a local basis.

Donations received will provide direct aid, for instance: £5 could provide emergency heating or electricity for 24 hours £15 could provide an emergency pack with basic necessities £20 could provide a clean basic outfit for a child or provide transport £50 could immediately meet the basic needs of a woman and any children in a crisis situation For further information, contact service manager Hazel Bingham on 01292 885667 or hazel.bingham@sawamail.org.uk.

Under the new system, from age 55, whatever the size of a person’s defined contribution pot, they will be able to take it how they want, subject to their marginal rate of income tax that year. And 25% of their pot will remain tax-free.

To help people navigate this complex area, Munro Partnership has created munro.retire. This new retirement planning service gives people complete choice over how they access their pension and helps them make the decision that best suits their needs.

Peter Leonard, Director at Munro Partnership, said: “We know that people have worked hard over many years to earn their pensions. But that doesn’t mean they have to work hard to choose how and when they access them during their retirement. That’s why, when we were looking for an agency to create a website that engaged with its users and worked for them, there was only one choice: Launch.”

The team at Launch set about creating a website that ‘combines crisp visuals and clear messaging’ for online users.

David Wilkinson, Director at Launch, explained: “Its primary objective is to encourage customers to get in touch, so content has been kept deliberately light and calls to action prominently displayed. Not only does the site work well for users, it works well on all desktop and mobile devices and meets all the latest web standards.”

Warehouse To Let, 1745 sqm

glasgowprestwick.com Call 01292 511211

YOUR BUSINESS | SPRING 2015

MUNRO.RETIRE WEBSITE LAUNCHED

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Scotland’s future is prepared for work

SQA’s Vocational Qualifications enable learners to develop their knowledge and skills for the world of work.

Our qualifications are developed with industry experts ensuring learners have the kind of skills employers need.

SQA — providing skills for Scotland.

Business Development T: 0303 333 0330 E: mycentre@sqa.org.uk W: www.sqa.org.uk/journeys

SimpsInns stunning new venue on track for its May opening Exciting times lie ahead for SimpsInns with the brand new Waterside Hotel in West Kilbride due to open in the coming weeks.

The award-winning Waterside restaurant and bar has been in operation for just over three years and is already a hugely popular venue with local and visitors alike.

And now with the £3million second phase almost complete, the Waterside Hotel promises to deliver a whole new dimension to one of Ayrshire’s standout destinations along the water’s edge with panoramic views to the Isle of Arran.

The Waterside Hotel will open in May 2015 and will boast 23 wonderfully appointed bedrooms, penthouse and honeymoon suite.

The existing Cape Cod design theme carries through to the range of standard and deluxe rooms created in a courtyard formation around the rooftop garden.

schedule for the spring opening deadline,” explained Malcolm Simpson, owner of SimpsInns.

The Waterside Hotel also features the stunning Kyle Suite, a state of the art wedding, conference and banqueting suite with glass-fronted, retractable doors, which lead out onto the boardwalk and private gardens.

To find out more about this latest SimpsInns venue, contact the team on 01294 204040, for more details.

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2003/04 AW ARDS

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“We are making great progress at The Waterside and are on

“We are delighted with the overall build and design in what is shaping up to be another stunning SimpsInns venue with tremendous vistas from every aspect, including the brand new bedrooms and Kyle Suite.”

2003/04 AW ARDS

british baker of the year

british baker of the year

Quality Products From Quality People

Business Lunch or Corporate Catering

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Irvine 147 High Street Tel: 01294 273 198

35 Bridgegate Tel: 01294 276 160

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Sandwich Platters • Buffet Packs • Celebration Cakes • On-line

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39 Low Glencairn St Tel: 01563 522 958

www.browningsbakers.com 01563 522 685

Kilmarnock 117 King Street Tel: 01563 524 060

6 Dean Street Tel: 01563 522 424

Bonnyton Industrial Estate, Kilmarnock KA1 2NP

Stewarton 37 Foregate Tel: 01563 536 792

15 High Street Tel: 01560 483 114

YOUR BUSINESS | SPRING 2015

READY FOR SPRING OPENING

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A WEEKEND TO TASTE AYRSHIRE Ayrshire fantastic larder takes centre stage for a weekend in May to celebrate the region’s exceptional produce.

Taste Ayrshire is taking part at the Ayr County Show on Saturday 9th May and Ballantrae Food Festival on Sunday 10th May to show off the fantastic produce the area has to offer.

A wide variety of producers have signed up to be part of this year’s Taste Ayrshire marquee at the Ayr County Show. The Cook School Scotland is also returning with their mobile kitchen to provide live cooking demonstrations throughout the day to keep visitors entertained.

Willie Mackie, Taste Ayrshire Chair, said: “We’re delighted Taste Ayrshire will once

www.tasteayrshire.co.uk

taste

opportunity for suppliers and restauranteurs from Ayrshire and beyond to showcase the best they have to offer in a new venue.

again be involved at the Ayr County Show.

“Ayrshire is awash with fantastic seasonal produce and the Taste Ayrshire marquee will bring it to the masses. Our great range of producers from the area will offer visitors to the Ayr County Show the best selection of what is available on their doorstep.”

The following day, the first Ballantrae Festival of Food and Drink will showcase more fantastic local produce as well as promoting healthy eating and drinking.

The festival will include guided foraging walks, cookery demonstrations; pop up restaurants, wine and whisky tasting.

“With a backdrop of some of the most stunning scenery in Scotland in an area that delivers the highest quality produce, we’re confident the Festival will become an established favourite. We’ve already had a tremendous commitment from local businesses, there is still time to sign up and join us for this stunning event.

“Through the support of both Stena and SAYLSA there is a great opportunity to visit the festival from Ireland and other areas of Scotland by boat and bus and train and bus so that local beer, wine and whisky tasting can be enjoyed without the need to drive. Keep an eye on the web site for details.”

Susan Crosthwaite, Chair of the Ballantrae Food and Drink Festival, added: “We’re very excited to be launching Ballantrae’s first Festival of Food and Drink. It’s a great

Saturday 9th May 9.00am to 5.00pm

TRUCK AYR Taste Ayrshire ing

YOUR BUSINESS | SPRING 2015

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and

d r i B y l r Ea cNkowets Ti Tel: 0845 2011460 • www.ayrcountyshow.co.uk e availanbel onli

Ayr Racecourse • Craigie Road Ayr

Supported by

MEMBER NEWS

WHEN WORKSMART MET WADESPRINT There is nothing that makes our team at the Ayrshire Chamber happier than when we facilitate for two of our valued members to meet through one of our many chamber business events.

supplies and installs for clients like SSE Hydro and Tesco Bank.”

WadesPrint met Worksmart’s tight deadline and challenging brief within a remarkably short period of time, beating the agreed three week deadline by two weeks, creating an iconic brand in the process.

The perfect example of this happened when Ayrshire Chamber Partner for Business, Worksmart Contracts attended our Ayrshire Connections B2B Exhibition at Ayr Racecourse where they met another of our members and regular sponsors of our Annual Dinner and our Annual Business Awards, WadesPrint.

From initial discussions and subsequent meetings our two members then agreed to work together on rebranding Worksmart’s three divisions: Worksmart Contracts, Worksmart Interiors and Worksmart Manchester.

Brian at WadesPrint explained: “Worksmart felt their current brand didn’t reflect the exceptional standard of work and level of

projects the contractor has been successfully winning and completing throughout Scotland and the UK. They identified they needed a new brand that reflected their ethos of working smart and that their brand had to be more intelligent. In choosing a tessellated design style with the use of sharp angles, and incorporating depth, we created a brand that has captured what Worksmart is all about - it makes them look smart. It is scalable for use on everything from a business card or company vehicle right up to the large high quality internal glass partitions that the company

Lisa Neilson from Worksmart added: “We could see we were working with the right designers from the moment we first saw their new brand. WadesPrint got it right first time, on time. A measure of a good brand is how it grows among the people who are using it and the Worksmart team have taken to calling their new logo the Ninja Star.”

Worksmart proudly launched their new brand to their clients using a bespoke die cut Christmas card that displayed the brand progression visually displaying ‘out with the old’ and ‘in with the new’.

YOUR BUSINESS | SPRING 2015

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SOLD OUT ANNUAL DINNER! The highlight of the Ayrshire business calendar – Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner – has sold out!

The year’s hottest ticket got even hotter when Donald Trump was announced as the special after dinner speaker at this year’s event at Ayr Racecourse on Friday 27th March.

TV and Radio personality Kaye Adams will return as host of the gala evening where the winner of the 2014 Business Excellence Award.

Chamber CEO Val Russell said: “The Annual Dinner is definitely the highlight of the year and a prestigious event in Ayrshire’s calendar. This is the highest attended dinner we’ve had as the dinner continues to grow.

“To have Donald Trump attend is a fantastic coup for Ayrshire and we’ll look forward to hearing what he has to say.”

Guests will enjoy a three-course dinner with Ayrshire ingredients at its heart and musical entertainment from the Red Hot Chilli Pipers.

QTS Training is the principal sponsor of the 2015 Annual Dinner, Lorna Gibson, Business Development Manager for QTS Training, added: “QTS Training is delighted to be principal sponsor of the Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner 2015.

“The dinner was a great success last year with a fantastic number of companies in attendance and we are very proud to be able to continue our support.”

Other sponsors for the dinner include Barclays Bank and North Ayrshire Council.

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Val added: “We’re delighted to have confirmation now and ask you to save the date and join us in March. We would also like to thank QTS for their continued support as principal sponsor of the Annual Dinner and look forward to welcoming back Kaye Adams who was fantastic as host last year. Lastly, Ayr Racecourse for giving us the perfect venue for the event.”

QTS REACH WORLDWIDE AUDIENCE QTS Group reached a global audience thanks to its sponsorship of the Scottish League Cup this year.

The Lanarkshire-based group’s logo was seen in homes across the world as the Old Firm semi-final was beamed to 54 countries.

Alan McLeish, managing director of QTS, is delighted with the group’s involvement in the tournament.

He said: “Our financial commitment to sport in the UK includes relationships with Commonwealth boxer Charlie Flynn, Glasgow Warriors, Kilmarnock FC, Derby County FC and Ayr Racecourse as well as leading young sportspeople.

“The reaction to our involvement has been remarkable and we are already considering a longer term investment in the tournament.”

FANTASTIC FIVE FOR EUREKA SOLUTIONS

AIRPORT ACHIEVES NEW SAFETY TARGET

Glasgow Prestwick has become one of the first airports in Europe to move across to new safety specifications under harmonised European regulations.

The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) is at the heart of a new Europe-wide regulatory system, with all UK airports required to comply with its rules by December 2017.

Eureka Solutions (Scotland) celebrated a fantastic fifth consecutive win at the Sage Annual Awards.

The East Kilbride based member was delighted to accept their award at a ceremony on a boat in the Thames in London.

Previously, it has won the Sage Custom Solutions Partner of the Year award on the four previous occasions they have entered in 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2013.

To win, the Eureka Solutions team, led by David Lindores and Alyson McMenemy, gave a presentation in Newcastle detailing some of the key products and

bespoke solutions it had developed for a wide variety of customers.

Managing Director at Eureka Solutions, Alistair Livingstone, commented, “I would like to congratulate all my staff on this amazing achievement. These awards recognise innovative thinking and smart problem solving and it is a great tribute to David and the team that they have won.

“The award confirms the breadth, quality and usefulness of our products alongside the technical expertise required to consistently produce award winning products. Everyone at Eureka Solutions is absolutely delighted."

All UK aerodromes open to public use, which serve commercial air transport and where operations using instrument approach or departure procedures are provided, fall within the scope of the new EASA regulations which came into force in March last year.

Following six months of work, Glasgow Prestwick Airport received final sign-off on all required certification which currently only a handful of UK airports have achieved.

Glasgow Prestwick Chief Executive Iain Cochrane said: "Our successful and speedy transition to the EASA regulations reflects our total commitment to safety and operational excellence. It stands the airport in good stead as we continue to develop new infrastructure at the airport.”

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THE SHARING ECONOMY

TACKLING THE INSIDER THREAT

The sharing economy is hailed as the future of commerce, but what can be learned from these innovative companies?

Put trust first Everything the sharing economy does is predicated on trust – without that crucial element, a business model built giving strangers access to your home, car or to-do list would collapse.

Empower your customers The sharing economy is expert at transforming users into engaged and excited brand advocates.

Focus on your community Small businesses have a major advantage — unlike multinationals, you’re already a vital part of the community in which you operate. Make it work for you!

BE READY FOR TAX CHANGE

YOUR BUSINESS | SPRING 2015

Business should note the UK rate of income tax will be reduced by 10p in the pound for all Scottish rate payers in 2016.

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The Scottish Government will decide the remainder of the rate and will announce the planned rate in Autumn this year alongside the 2016/17 draft budget announcement.

The only responsibility of employers is to update their own payment systems when the new employee tax codes are received from HMRC in 2016.

The Scottish Rate of Income Tax it is a power that the Scottish Parliament will have to affect the amount of income tax that Scottish taxpayers pay and (as a result) the amount that the Scottish Government has to spend in Scotland.

Scotland’s first ever Insider Threat Conference attracted over 200 delegates from a wide variety of businesses across Scotland as well as a number of international attendees, who all recognised the need to protect their business against Insider Threat.

audience volunteers) and a thought provoking presentation from Chartered Psychologist Paul Dickens who taught the conference delegates how to manage the emotional changes of staff going through a change process in order to avoid the perfect storm of factors which can encourage staff to become insider saboteurs.

Organised by the Scottish Business Resilience Centre, expert speakers shared their knowledge on a range of topics covering everything from psychological motivations of deliberate insider saboteurs, how to ensure your office cloud computing solution is well protected against insider threat and how staff are the human firewall of a business.

An event spokesman said: “Overall the conference was a great success and all who attended now have a much deeper understanding of insider threat and how to protect their businesses from this threat within.”

Key highlights from the day included a webcam being hacked live on stage by Professor Bill Buchanan from Napier University, Mentalist Drew McAdam’s extremely entertaining presentation on micro expression during which he successfully identified anyone who lied (from

For those who would like to learn more about insider threat, the Scottish Business Resilience Centre have recently launched a suite of training modules on the topic covering everything from recruitment, cyber impersonation and risk identification.

For more information please e-mail enquiries@sbrcentre.co.uk

VOLUNTEERS PROVIDE CHRISTMAS SPARKLE FOR VISITORS

Tourism Champion Volunteers were a part of the Magical Christmas Events which took place at Culzean Castle and Country Park.

asked for information. I was delighted to assist visitors as needed and this included taking photos and providing directions.”

The group of volunteers were on site to give directions and answers to visitors questions.

Further induction sessions and volunteering opportunities will be taking place throughout the year, so to get involved and sign up visit www. ayrshire-arran.org/our-work/volunteers or email: info@ayrshire-arran.org. New volunteers always welcome!

Angela Iannarelli, Tourism Champion Volunteer, said: “While being in the courtyard at the Visitor Centre, people exchanged smiles with us and many

MEMBER NEWS

17 YOUR BUSINESS | SPRING 2015

NEW BUSINESS ADDS UP FOR AYRSHIRE BUSINESSWOMAN An Ayrshire business which aims to make maths lessons more engaging and fun for students is expanding across Scotland.

Kulio, set up by Caroline McLachlan uses a range of characters including Even Steven, Adding Adam and Odd Todd, to help children understand addition, subtraction, multiplication and other mathematical concepts.

Using these resources in her former job as a primary school, Caroline saw a change in the way pupils responded.

Caroline said: “I’ve worked as an early years practitioner for 18 years raising attainment in literacy and numeracy. During this time I created my first characters and instantly they were a success. Not only did the children love them, but teachers welcomed the focus it brought to lessons.”

With support from Business Gateway Ayrshire, Caroline piloted Kulio and now works with three local authorities and is planning on expanding across Scotland and England.

She continued: “We’re already making a name for ourselves throughout Scotland and we hope to capitalise on this by introducing our resources into more local authorities. Business Gateway has been a huge support as I had no previous business experience. Now, I’m a confident business women as their support and guidance helped me to write business plans, learn about finance and ultimately gave me the tools I require to run a successful business.”

Jim Jardine of Business Gateway added: “Caroline has used her experience combined with our support services to ensure Kulio is an exciting and growing business. We advised Caroline on the issues that face start-ups and with our help she now has the skills to take Kulio forward.”

To find out more about how Business Gateway can help you set up and develop your own business call on 01292 427 552 or visit www.bgateway. com/ayrshire

YOUNG MANUFACTURER OF THE YEAR

Congratulations to Spirit AeroSystems’ employee, Campbell Ferguson, a Team Leader within the organisation’s Global Customer Services & Support Distribution Centre for being recognised as the ‘Young Manufacturer of the Year’ in the recent ‘Manufacturer of the Year Awards’ ceremony.

The Manufacturer of the Year Awards is dedicated to recognising and celebrating industry achievement and highlighting the diversity and strength of UK manufacturing. The awards aim to spread best practice, inspire others and show the important role UK manufacturing plays in today’s economy.

Snowdrop Festival Sunday 1st March, 1pm – 4pm Wander through the beautiful gardens and woodlands of Blairquhan this winter to discover a wide range of stunning scenery and the blossoming of Scotland’s most delicate white flower, the snowdrop.

Wedding Open Day Sunday 8th March, 1pm – 4pm Free entry with complimentary sparkling wine and canapes on arrival. See the castle fully set up for weddings and meet with our dedicated in-house wedding co-ordinator.

A Magical Mother’s Day afternoon at Blairquhan Castle – Sunday 15th March, 1pm – 4pm Bring that special person in your life to Blairquhan Castle this Mother’s Day to experience something unique – a magical afternoon with homemade afternoon tea, live piano and magic performance.

For more information of events and ticket price please visit

www.blairquhan.co.uk/blog or phone 01655 770239.

CHAMBER SERVICES

CHAMBER ENERGY SOLUTIONS

Are increasing energy costs impacting the growth of your business? Then Chamber Energy Solutions is the answer. This national commercial scheme through the British Chambers of Commerce, is provided by award winning Utilitywise plc, one of the UK’s leading business energy and water consultancies. It offers an exclusive range of products and services to reduce both energy consumption and associated cost.

Chamber Energy Alliance Members joining the Chamber Energy Alliance will be offered a budget portfolio deal, with the security of no price increases for up to two years, which can be fixed 12 months in advance. Small businesses* will command a powerful ‘trading desk’ capability typically only enjoyed by larger companies. Members can also benefit from a rebate on prices if the unit price drops below the portfolio rate.

Chamber Energy Helpdesk A brand new, Free phone Chamber Energy Solutions helpline and email helpdesk, offers businesses of all sizes direct access to energy specialists, answering questions and offering advice on all aspects of energy management.

Discounted Audits, Metering and Monitoring products Through Chamber Energy Solutions, all members can access a range of discounts on audits and across the Utilitywise market-leading suite of

monitoring and diagnostic products. Savings can amount to hundreds of pounds, depending on member requirements.

Utilitywise expertise and independence As the UK’s leading independent energy consultant, over 17,000 businesses of every size and sector, rely upon Utilitywise for energy management and cost reduction. With access to prices from major gas and electricity suppliers and an extensive purchasing capacity; Utilitywise can independently recommend and secure competitive deals – and help members gain understanding and insight into the energy choices available to them.

‘Price Lock for Five’ and advanced contracts As you would expect, Chamber Energy Solutions, offers members the opportunity to secure energy rates 12 months in advance of current contract end dates. In addition, members can benefit from five year contracts offering; peace of mind, protection from exposure to volatilities in the energy markets and unexpected bottom line impact. These arrangements, coupled with the Chamber Energy Alliance, offer Chamber members a unique pricing advantage.

Visit www.chamberenergysolutions.co.uk for further details T: 0800 923 0210 E-mail: help@chamberenergysolutions.co.uk

CHAMBER LEGAL

Being part of the Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce network is great value for money and we offer our membership a comprehensive range of services to your business.

One of the services we offer is Chamber Legal.

CHAMBER LEGAL

What would happen if you were faced with an escalating personnel issue, the threat of litigation or a health and safety problem? Do you have the expertise in all these fields to protect your business?

As a fully paid member of Ayrshire Chamber you can gain access to 'Chamber Advice Line'.

YOUR BUSINESS | SPRING 2015

This service is provided by Composite Legal Expenses Ltd., a leading national consultancy that is endorsed by the British Chambers of Commerce and is committed to reducing the burdens of dealing with the regulations facing businesses today.

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Providing confidential advice on a range of legal and accountancy matters: • Commercial Law • Direct access to • Expert advice professional advice available on the • Employment Law 24 hours a day telephone • Health & Safety whenever a • Free help and advice Legislation problem arises irrespective of the • Environmental Health number of calls made • Guaranteed quality • Tax & VAT Issues

• Construction Safety

• Exclusive service, tailored to Chamber Members

service from a national provider

• Benefits Full details of the legal cover provided to our membership can be found on our website www.ayrshire-chamber.org

MEMBER NEWS

AWARD-WINNING DUNDONALD LINKS

Dundonald Links was named overall winner in the 2015 International Association of Golf Tour Operators’ sustainability Awards, for its exceptional management standards within golf ’s sustainability issues - nature, water, energy, supply chain, pollution control and community.

YOUR BUSINESS | SPRING 2015

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The recognition demonstrates a deep, integrated commitment throughout all aspects of sustainability since opening in 2003 and is now recognised among the most progressive clubs in the world with its dedication to environmental and community initiatives.

It also highlighted the many activities embedded in the culture of Dundonald Links including Zero Waste, numerous and specific biodiversity projects, habitat improvements, ‘outdoor classrooms’ for local schools, campaigns and partnerships with a large variety of local and national organisations, and public nature trails with education boards.

The announcement was made at the 15th annual IAGTO Awards Gala Dinner held at Villa Erba, Lake Como, Italy, on the final day of the International Golf Travel Market.

Last year, Dundonald Links was awarded the title of UK Environmental Golf Course of the Year 2014, in addition to becoming GEO Certified™ - a symbol of great golf environments worldwide.

Through our team’s passion and dedication to environmental sustainability, the Club has in return become more efficient and commercially viable.

In addition, our partnerships with local and national organisations and, in particular, within the local community have been extremely rewarding, supporting education, building relationships and opening doors to new opportunities.

Later this year they host The Aberdeen Asset Management Ladies Scottish Open presented by EventScotland and in 2016 will be host venue to the Ladies British Amateur Open.

Guy Redford, Director of Golf, Dundonald Links commented: “Dundonald Links is honoured to receive this award and to be recognised for playing its part in protecting the natural world.

AU REVOIR DOME, BENVENTO A LIDO! Buzzworks Holdings is delighted that their new Lido Prestwick is open and has created 10 new jobs for the local area.

informal all-day destination with seating for 95, while light, natural materials will make it all the more tempting for diners to stay that bit longer.”

A spokesperson for Buzzworks Holdings said: “As the slightly more casual and laid back younger sister to the original Lido Troon, the new-look Lido Prestwick is already turning heads with its cool and continental interior.

An open-plan kitchen forms the centrepiece of what is certain to be a bustling and

Open all day for everything from expertly poured coffee and working lunches, right through to after work drinks, dinner and great late night entertainment, Lido Prestwick looks set to become a firm favourite with families and night owls alike.

Quality Decorating and Painting Wall Covering Specialists 33 Ardrossan Road, West Kilbride KA23 9NA Tel: 01294 823333 Mob: 07970 176 346

For more information visit www.lido-prestwick.co.uk

Office : 33 Ardr

CHAMBER NEWS

BUSINESS MENTORING OFFERS AN OBJECTIVE VIEW OF YOUR BUSINESS

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Through the continued gathering of evidence of its impact, Business Mentoring Scotland has been shown to massively benefit mentees that join up to be mentored.

Gaining access to the skills, knowledge, and experience of Scotland’s business leaders, owners or employees can help develop new ways of thinking that increase profitability and investment, inspire the development of new products and lead to accessing new export markets.

Positively influencing all of these factors has shown to benefit the wider Scottish economy, but the guidance provided by mentors can also be subtle at times, influencing human behaviours with the financial impact difficult to measure.

Rhona Brown, Business Mentoring Executive at Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce explained: “Working with a mentor allows a ‘fresh pair of eyes’to look over your business and offer advice or direction from an entirely independent point of view.”

When Arlene Kelly, Health and Safety Specialist with Sigma Aldrich – a leading life science firm headquartered in the US - signed up to Business Mentoring Scotland, she wanted to work on her own personal approach to her working environment and specifically - how she dealt with conflict, professional relationships and the pressures of working life.

Pamela Anderson, owner of Sounding Board Associates and a senior HR consultant with Square Circle HR, has mentored a wide range of businesses.

Pamela began mentoring Arlene in April 2014 and through her expertise working within the public sector and in financial services, Pamela has successfully helped Arlene overcome her career obstacles.

Why did you join Business Mentoring Scotland?

“It was word of mouth really. I knew a few people who had worked with Ayrshire Chamber who’d been mentored and they recommended I try it.”

What did you hope to achieve by going into mentoring?

“I’d moved to a new role within the company where I had to influence people at varying levels

PAMELA ANDERSON, OWNER OF SOUNDING BOARD ASSOCIATES

ARLENE KELLY, HEALTH AND SAFETY SPECIALIST WITH SIGMA ALDRICH

of seniority and change existing ways of working.

I was looking for some help to positively resolve situations as a lot of my reactions to challenges and criticism were emotional and having a negative effect on my attitude at work.”

How did the mentoring process work?

“Well before meeting Pamela, Rhona asked me to set out all the learning objectives I wanted to achieve from the process.

Pamela and I then met in person a lot, the initial meetings involved me highlighting some of the areas where I had experienced difficulty and generally letting off some steam.”

What were your discussions focused upon?

“We focused on behavioural changes I could make. Pamela was very good at asking probing questions and getting me to think about situations from a different perspective and more objectively instead of emotionally.”

What have you learned through being mentored?

“I have learned that how I react in any situation is a choice. Pamela taught me techniques that I can use to remain calm and diffuse tension.”

What was the effect of Pamela’s mentoring?

“If I hadn’t been mentored by Pamela, for different reasons I don’t know if I would still be in

my position today as I had to go through a very steep learning curve over the last 18 months. I’m now looking forward to the challenges ahead and know that I am more confident and better prepared to deal with them.”

How has being mentored benefited Sigma-Aldrich?

“I have a key role on site and my output has greatly increased. I am more efficient, effective and productive as I’m able to recognise where to direct my energy and time to make the biggest impact.

Being able to move on after a proposal has been dismissed has been a critical factor in achieving this.”

What did you think about the mentoring match?

“It might sound cliché but it was the perfect match. Pamela was very easy to get on with, open and her style matched my personality. It was an excellent job by Rhona and the chamber pairing us together.”

Would you recommend mentoring?

“I couldn’t be more enthusiastic about the programme. The way I was dealing with situations in work was a road block that was halting the progress of my career; Pamela has been instrumental in changing that.”

For more information on this FREE service, call Rhona Brown 01292 678666.

MAKE YOUNG PEOPLE YOUR BUSINESS Young people bring with new and fresh ideas that your business could benefit from and this qualification is designed to help meet the needs of employers looking to recruit the younger generation.

A certified SQA qualification, the Certificate makes recruitment easier as employers can tell at a glance from a CV or job application that the candidate is work-ready. The Certificate is for young people with a positive attitude to work but who need to develop extra skills to help them get and keep a job.

Young people who achieve the award have proven they are ready for work.

They will be able to evidence valuable

The

Ayrshire Chamber

MIX work experience and show that they can turn up on time, work with others and have the right attitude.

This is where you come in. By providing young people on the scheme an opportunity to perform within your workplace it can be establish whether or not they are ‘ready for the workplace.’

Business Liaison coordinator Claire Baird explained: “With the new year comes new opportunities. We’re looking for businesses in Ayrshire to register their support for the scheme to offer a young person a placement to prove they are ready for work.

YOUR BUSINESS | SPRING 2015

Struggling with New Year’s resolution for your business? Why not make young people that resolution and give your backing to the Certificate of Work Readiness scheme.

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T: 01292 678 666 F: 01292 678 667 E: engage@ayrshire-chamber.org www.ayrshire-chamber.org

“As part of their qualification the young person is required to complete a minimum of 190 hours of work experience over a 10 week period. You will endorse the performance of the young person and decide whether they are ready for the workplace.”

There is no obligation to hire the young person after completing their placement but many employers have done so due potential shown by the young person and the success of the scheme.

Further details are available by contacting the education team at Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce on 01292 678 666.

The

Ayrshire Chamber

MIX

T: 01292 678 666 F: 01292 678 667 E: engage@ayrshire-chamber.org www.ayrshire-chamber.org

IT IN BUSINESS Queen Margaret Academy Higher Business Management and Administration & IT pupils recently visited the University Hospital to see first-hand the practical use of IT in Business.

John Barrett eHealth Programme Manager, Luan Johnston Communications Officer, Mary Keen and Lindsay McLachlan all gave in depth presentations on how IT is used applied and implemented within NHS Ayrshire and Arran.

M oulding young people I nto employment X ponentially!

WORLD OF WORK

REAL WORLD ADMIN Kilmarnock Academy pupils studying Administration recently found out about how their newly learned skills can help them in the real world.

S3 pupils enjoyed a visit from Isabel McNicol of the Business Time Saver and were briefed on the importance of learning administration skills while at school.

Isabel McNicol explained “It started with me telling them how I came to be doing what I do. It seemed, to begin with, that the careers they were planning didn’t appear to them to need admin skills but as the questions started to flow it became obvious that they were now thinking about the application of admin in various lines of work.”

A group of second year pupils from Kilmarnock Academy visited Kilmarnock FC to see how much a part administrative roles at a football club.

YOUR BUSINESS | SPRING 2015

An interactive learning session by Brian Sproul, the Community Development Coach, emphasised that administration has a big place in a football club – for example, coaching session plans are created using football specific software and Microsoft Word.

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A further group of S2 pupils were given a tour of the Galleon Sports Centre. The facility requires extensive amounts of behind the scene planning and organisation, to ensure the facility is well maintained, booking runs smoothly and there is the appropriate number of staff working.

Pupils and staff were delighted to have the opportunity to speak to the businesses and learn from them and wish to thank The Business Time Saver, Kilmarnock Football Club, the Galleon Centre and Claire Baird from the Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce for helping to organise the visits.

DYKESMAINS

Dykesmains Primary School runs a World PRIMARY SCHOOL of Work project, where a number of invited guests from a variety of careers talk about their work to pupils.

These worthwhile visits have shown pupils pupils the many career opportunities that are available to them.

This year they welcomed an Accountant in Bankruptcy who developed a game for primary aged children called ‘Skills4Bills’ which teaches the pupils in a very practical and fun way about budgeting their earnings.

Most of the children hadn’t thought about budgeting and were choosing to spend their money on the biggest and best products and themselves in debt at the end of the month.

The second time the pupils visited the stations, they were much more aware of what they could afford and were actively looking for ways to save money. This was a very worthwhile activity, teaching the pupils about how to manage their money responsibly in a fun and engaging way.

23 YOUR BUSINESS | SPRING 2015

Cameron Sykes - Prestwick Academy

BUILDING HIS FUTURE Prestwick Academy pupil Cameron Sykes recently took part in a week’s work experience in Ashleigh Construction’s Commercial Department.

Based at their Prestwick Office, learning the commercial elements of the construction industry, he made a on site visit to an Office Development Project in Ardrossan where our Project Manager David Roan discussed how these elements apply on site.

DOUBLE THE EXPERIENCE Bronwen Barton – Largs Academy Bronwen split her time between the jeweller Marion Kane and the West Kilbride library giving her a varied experience of work.

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

Bronwen is currently studying National 5 Art and Design and this helped applying design processes, carefully executing details and manipulating materials as well as seeing first-hand what it would be like to run your own business.

RECIPE FOR SUCCESS Work experience Lauren Bryson – Auchinleck Academy On my work experience I went to “baking sensations” as I am very interested in the baking and food preparation industry.

On my first day I was shown how everything worked including the ordering system and then baked a cake that I would spend the week learning how to decorate.

I was shown how to pipe roses onto cupcakes and how to get the icing to go from dark to light like a real rose.

I really enjoyed my work experience and learned a great deal, including baking on such a large scale.

WORK EXPERIENCE

MEMBER NEWS

PLANTING SEEDS FOR SECURE FUTURE

YOUR BUSINESS | SPRING 2015

Auchinleck Premier Landscaping is a profitable subsidiary designed to self-sustain a community development initiative.

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The newly formed company – who carry out all aspects of landscaping - was set up as the new branded commercial subsidiary enterprise of Auchinleck Community Development Initiative, a community led organisation, based in Auchinleck.

Stephen McCarron, ACDI Development Manager, explained: “The APL required an injection of new resources in order to make the step change from small level sales, into fully commercialised trading - the next stage of our business development cycle.”

The funding allowed the organisation to purchase a ride-on industrial

“

Pupils from primary five to seven were actively involved throughout.

”

lawnmower and utility van and enable the APL to compete in a wider geographical market and increase their work and delivery efficiency.

Ian Allan, APL manager, explained: “The aim of the APL is to bring in income to make ACDI more sustainable so we can take more people into employment and education.

“We recently worked on a miner’s memorial and anti-sectarianism garden which the local schools were involved

in. We brought in Auchinleck Primary School and St Patrick’s Primary School from the village and they were part of the initial design and planting.

“Pupils from primary five to seven were actively involved throughout and were also given a presentation to explain why they were working on this project.”

The company is now looking at improving train station appearance.

Ian added: “We’re looking at projects within the railways to provide groups who have adopted railway stations to provide them with the plants and raised beds.

“The flower beds are too low so that’s actually a tripping hazard. They should be higher and what we could do is get them made into a kit form and the groups can build them themselves.”

TICK TALK NETWORKING @ SEAMILL HYDRO 12th March 5.30- 7.30pm Host and Sponsor: Seamill Hydro £15 FIRST AID AT WORK 3 Day H&S approved courses Running 16th -18th March 9am – 4pm Venue: Ayrshire Chamber Board Room £234 per session LUNCH & LEARN – LAYING A PLATFORM FOR BUSINESS GROWTH 20th March 12.00-2.00pm Venue: Ayrshire Chamber Board Room Facilitated by Shirlaws Coaching £12 CTA- SECURING FUNDING FOR FINANCE GROWTH 26th March 8.30-11.00am Venue: Ayrshire Chamber Boardroom Facilitated by : FP Business Services £35

ANNUAL DINNER 2015 27th March 6.45- 11.30pm Principal Sponsor: QTS Training, Secondary, Barclays Bank and Entertainment Sponsor North Ayrshire Council Host ; Kaye Adams and after dinner speaker: Donald Trump £75

T

SOLD OU

SOUL SUCCESS – I DAY SEMINAR FOR WOMEN 31st March 9.15- 4.30pm Venue : Enterkine House Hotel £99 CHAMBER KICKS – 5 A SIDE FOOTBALL CHALLENGE 21st April 5.00- 8.00pm Venue: Power League Kilmarnock Killie Pies sponsored by Brownings the Baker £75 per team LUNCH & LEARN - PLANNING FOR GROWTH AND 6 GROWTH STRATEGIES EXPLAINED 22nd April 12.00- 2.00pm Venue: Ayrshire Chamber Board Room Facilitated by Shirlaws Coaching £12

CTA- HELP GOOGLE LOVE YOUR WEBSITE 23rd April 8.30-11.00am Venue: Ayrshire Chamber Boardroom Facilitated by : Boyd Digital £35 TICK TALK NETWORKING @ BLAIRQUHAN CASTLE 29th April 5.00-7.00pm Host and Sponsor : Blairquhan Castle £15 CTA- WISE UP TO YOUR ACCOUNTS 7th May 8.30-11.00am Venue: Ayrshire Chamber Boardroom Facilitated by First Independent Finance £35

LUNCH & LEARN – IMPLEMENTING YOUR GROWTH STRATEGY 20th May 12.00-2.00pm Venue Ayrshire Chamber Board Room Facilitated by : Shirlaws Coaching £12 CTA- INFLUENCE AND NEGOTIATION SKILLS 21st May 8.30-11.00am Venue: Ayrshire Chamber Boardroom Facilitated by Rock Training £35 SUMMER BARBEQUE AND ARCHERY @ KELBURN 27th May 5.00-7.30pm Venue : Kelburn Castle and Country Park £15

BREAKFAST BYTES WITH RBS 8th May 8.00-9.30am Venue : Ayrshire Chamber Board Room Sponsored by RBS FREE SWING INTO NETWORKING @ DUNDONALD LINKS 15th May 8.00- 12.30pm Venue: Dundonald Links 9 hole stableford competition with breakfast and prize giving lunch. £40

TICK TALK NETWORKING @ THE CARRICK CENTRE 10th June 5.30- 7.30pm Host and Sponsor: The Carrick Centre Maybole £15

Price shown are Chamber Members rates and include VAT unless otherwise stated. To book or for more info visit www.ayrshire-chamber.org or call 01292 678666

BY YVONNE MUNRO

In November we welcomed Stuart McIntyre from the Spaceport Consortium to the Ayrshire Chamber Boardroom. Stuart gave an overview of why Prestwick is well positioned to win and how the business community can support the process.

Dewaldens Garden Centre, Kilmarnock, played host for a Festive Networking evening in December. On arrival, members were greeted with a welcome glass of mulled wine, before perusing the fabulous Christmas shop and displays. Thanks to Dewaldens for hosting!

January launched with a complete sell out for Kick Start 2015 with a Business Breakfast @ Rugby Park, Kilmarnock. The Chamber team along with some his first team players met in the Park Hotel for a business breakfast, before a Behind the Scenes Tour of Rugby Park. Thanks to Kilmarnock FC for hosting!

The Morris Equestrian Centre hosted our Tick Talk Networking event in January with East Renfrewshire Chamber members joining. Members enjoyed watching

CHAMBER EVENTS ROUND UP dressage before preparing there 90 second pitch to present during the facilitated session. Thanks to Morris Equestrian for hosting.

“The event was really well organised and was a really useful way of developing contacts and sales opportunities.” Graeme Niven, Launch

Next up was a Behind the Scenes tour and Lunch @ Voca. Members joined the Chamber Team at the local call centre, wearing red to support the British Heart Foundation for a fun filled photo booth, raising funds for the charity!

“Thank you again it was a great success for us. From today I have secured 5 appointments to discuss business needs.”

Joanna Hanley, Operations Support Director, Voca

Our Partner for Business, Munro Partnership sponsored the Lunch and Learn event at the Hotel Kylestrome in February. The experts provided an update on Auto Enrolment and get ready for it now. Thanks to Munro Partnership for sponsoring.

Chamber Training Academy have been well attended with sessions covering: Handle HR with Confidence, by Square Circle HR; Getting found on Google, Measuring online Success using Google, both delivered by Bread & Butter Marketing; Networking without Nerves, by Deva Coaching and Get the best from your Tablet by IT FACT. “I love what I do, so it’s no hardship to be part of Ayrshire Chamber’s Training Academy team.

The sessions are well-organised, the facilities excellent, and I have gained business from every session I have done, as well as doing some effective networking for myself.”

Jill Simpson, Deva Training

25 YOUR BUSINESS | SPRING 2015

EVENTS DIARY SPRING 2015

Providing you the opportunity to meet contact, expand your knowledge and grow your business

The Board of Directors is delighted to welcome the following companies as recently joined members of Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce and Industry A & A SPITTAL Cumnock Mr Alistair Spittal 01290 425500

ADAM WILSON & SONS LTD Troon Ms Audrey Stevenson 01292 679679 www.glennonbrothers.ie ASPIRE PROPERTY (SCOTLAND) LTD Irvine Mrs Jules Gibb 01294 311500 www.aspire-property.co.uk AYRSHIRE MACMILLAN CANCER SUPPORT Paisley Ms Karen Mathie 0300 1000 200 www.macmillan.org.uk AYRSHIRE STEELS LTD Ayr Mr Bob Baxter 01292 880880 www.ayrshiresteels.co.uk

YOUR BUSINESS | SPRING 2015

BDSL IRVINE LTD Irvine Ms Angela Brown 07435 788 818 BOSUNS TABLE Largs Mrs Marshona Pendrill 01475 689198 www.bosunstable-largs.co.uk

BROCKLEWOOD LTD Ayr Mr John Harvie 01292 520559 Referred by Frosty Fridge Freezers

CHARTERED MANAGEMENT INSTITUTE Corby Mr Ian McNaught www.managers.org.uk

JST SERVICES (SCOTLAND) LTD Ayr Mr John Scott 01292 262050 www.jstservices.co.uk

DAILY POPPINS CLEANING SERVICES Drongan Mr Matt Meehan 01292 512799 www.dailypoppins.co.uk

KILMARNOCK FOOTBALL CLUB Kilmarnock Ms Nicola Sturgeon 01563 545300 www.kilmarnockfc.co.uk

DENHOLM WILHELMSEN LTD Ayr Mr Colin Young 01292 610451 www.denholm-barwil.com DIABETES UK Glasgow Mr Ryan Taylor 0141 245 6380 www.diabetes.org.uk DRIVER HIRE AYRSHIRE Prestwick Mr Donald McClymont 01292 475111 www.driverhire.co.uk EXCHANGE COMMUNICATIONS Kirkintilloch Mr Michael McMillan 07818 034 396 www.exchangecommunications.co.uk HOOPER MARTIN ESTATES LTD Darvel Mr Ronnie Martin 01560 329599 www.hoopermartinestates.co.uk IM TRAINING Ayr Mr Iain MacKay 08001123359 www.imtraininguk.com J LAING LTD Troon Ms Emma Murray 01292 317821

NE

MEMBW ERS

SHOOZE WITH SOLE Kilmarnock Mrs Donna Read 01292 281182 www.shoozewithsole.co.uk SKEO SOLUTIONS Prestwick Mrs Shonah McKechnie

KIRSTY INNES MARKETING Troon Ms Kirsty Innes 7989331474 www.kirstyinnes.com MACCALLUMS OF TROON Troon Mr John MacCallum 01292 319339 www.maccallumsoftroon.co.uk MURLAW SUPPLIES Ayr Ms Susan Murray 01292 257249 www.murlawsupplies.co.uk

01292 476527 www.skeo.com

SNOW REHAB LTD Prestwick Mr Gordon Hodge 0141 249 0544 www.snowrehab.com Referred by Wades Print

SOIL FERTILITY DUNNS Ayr Mr Rob Cooper

NEWTON SECURITY DOORS LTD Irvine Ms Ann-Marie Barron 01294 272667 www.newtonsecuritydoors.co.uk

01292 611622

P&O FERRIES Troon Mr Craig Rennie 01292 310100 www.poferries.com

Miss Sarah Crossley

PAMELA GRAY OPTOMETRISTS Girvan Ms Pamela Gray 01465 712257 SANTANDER CORPORATE & COMMERCIAL BANK Glasgow Ms Fiona Steele 7808397749 www.santander.co.uk

www.originfertilisers.co.uk STREET LEAGUE Greenock 07580 786 363 www.streetleague.co.uk STUDIO GOLF AYRSHIRE Troon Mr David Rushbury 01292 822093 WESTLIN GROUP Prestwick Mr Tom Clark 01292 678444

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

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Having a Meeting?

Hire the Chamber Boardroom for staff training, presentations, meetings and interviews.

Full Day Hire

£60 Members

£100

Half Day Hire

£36 Members

Non Members

Full Day

£76

£18 Members

Non Members

CEO Office

£30

Per Hour Hire

£18 Half Day

£58 Non Members

Mezzanine Balcony

Free

Ideal for Business Meetings

Prices include, flip chart & LCD screen, TV with DVD player, exhibition boards.

Tea, Coffee and Biscuits £1.50 Buffet catering provided on request