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Business

Matters AUTUMN 2017 EDITION

HELPING RENFREWSHIRE GROW & PROSPER

ROCCO 2017 shortlist announced INSIDE: Rocco Shortlist, Members News, Chamber updates & more…

Business Matters Autumn 2017

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President’s Welcome Welcome to the 2017 autumn edition of Business Matters, the quarterly magazine of Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce.

I trust that you managed to have an enjoyable break despite the diabolical British summer weather.

Well, after some two years in preparation the final bid for the City of Culture 2021 has been submitted.

The judging panel have visited Paisley and hopefully they were impressed by what they saw and heard from our Bids Team. Momentum continues to gather at pace and our bid is now clearly positioned as not only Paisley’s bid but that of Scotland. We now have cross party support from Holyrood and strong backing from the business community throughout the country. Furthermore, the Scottish Government has given financial backing to “Scotland’s bid” if it is successful. We await the judging panel’s decision which I believe is due in early December. Whatever the outcome, I believe the initiative will leave a lasting legacy that will serve the Renfrewshire business community well in the future.

Scottish Chambers of Commerce in conjunction with Strathclyde University’s Fraser of Allander Institute recently released their latest quarterly survey which showed that businesses in Scotland remained resilient in the face of the significant uncertainty caused by the Brexit negotiations and the fragility of the country’s economy. The survey noted that the financial and business services sector recorded strong results with sales and profitability at their highest levels for several years. Tourism was the standout performer over the quarter due to the weak pound’s effect on foreign holidays making it cheaper for overseas visitors to come to our country. Unfortunately, this was the reverse for British people travelling abroad. Black clouds however hang over the retail sector with several traders predicting a tough Christmas

ahead. Jobs are being lost as more shoppers move online and policies such as increased rates, the living wage and possible tax increases push up operating costs.

The Chancellor is about to announce his Autumn statement (Budget) for the coming year.

This Budget has increased significance in that it sets the foundation for our economy post Brexit. The Chancellor, in my opinion must take bold action to incentivise firms to invest. At the moment firms are reluctant to spend large amounts of cash when uncertainty exists.

Scotland’s finance minister has already published his draft spending plans for 2017/18 but will not formalise the plans until after the Chancellor’s Statement, as it may contain issues which have implications for Scottish Government’s spending which have not been taken into account in the finance minister’s draft. Let’s hope both statements prove to be good for business.

This is a busy time for the Chamber due partly to the ROCCOS, our annual Business Awards which celebrate business success and talent in Renfrewshire. Winning a ROCCO is indeed an achievement and as usual this year the number of entries have been extremely high with submissions from a wide range of sectors from companies both large and small.

Thank you to all who took time to enter, and if you did not make the shortlist, please keep trying and enter next year - maybe even in a different category. Also may I give a special mention and thank you to our main sponsor Paisley 2021 for UK City of Culture.

Your Chamber is proud to be one of the sponsors for the up and coming Scotland’s Town Conference Which is being held in Paisley later in November, leading- edge urban development advocates from the Netherlands and the United States will

share with delegates their knowledge based on their experiences on ways to improve our towns and communities, through for example, developing events, businesses and arts. The Chamber will have a limited number of tickets available to members for this prestigious conference should you wish to attend.

I offer my congratulations to one of our members, Spectrum Service Solutions who have won the Scottish Region BCC Award for Excellence in Customer Service.

They now go forward to the national final in London at the end of November.

Lastly may I convey my best wishes to Amanda Mcmillan who has recently announced her intention to stand down from her role at Glasgow Airport to begin a new life with her family in Australia.

Amanda has been a great supporter of our Chamber and her efforts in helping develop a key infrastructure asset in our area must be applauded. I look forward to seeing many of you at the ROCCOS. Support your Chamber and your Chamber will support you.

Tom Johnston, President Renfrewshire Chamber

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

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A Warm Welcome from our Chief Executive Welcome to the Autumn edition of Business Matters Magazine. The strength and depth of our business community is clearly reflected in another bumper issue of fifty-two pages.

Preparations are in full swing for Rocco 2017 with the chamber team.

We’ve had a huge response yet again this year for entries and there have been many tough decisions made by our judging panels, thank you for the time you have invested.

I recently attended the inaugural meeting of Renfrewshire’s Economic Leadership Panel. The Panel brings private & public organisations together to develop a long-term economic strategy for Renfrewshire. The group will meet four times a year and is chaired by chamber past president Audrey Cumberford.

Paisley 2021: The judging panel from DCMS were recently in Town and I believe Paisley gave a very good account of itself. We will know the outcome in December and you can still

contribute by tweeting your support to @Paisley2021. The response from the business community over the last two years has been tremendous and you can still make a difference. Thanks also to Paisley 2021 who have been announced as main sponsor for Rocco 2017.

In team news we wished Mark Brown, our Business Mentoring Executive well in his retirement at the end of September and thank him for his efforts with the mentoring program in the last four years. In his career Mark has matched close to five hundred companies, a great effort.

Networking opportunities are key for members and our final Pitch & Roll event of the year takes place on the 8th Nov with Hillington Park. Free to attend for chamber members and tenants of the Park.

I am pleased to confirm Rocco 2017 charities are Accord Hospice and RAMH leading a joint project focused on young people’s mental health through arts & culture.

Both organisations will be speaking at our November lunch on Thurs 30th November at David Lloyd, Renfrew and we look forward to supporting them in the next twelve months.

Thanks & regards

Bob Grant Chief Exec

Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce Bute Court, St Andrews Drive, Glasgow Airport, PA3 2SW t: 0141 847 5450 / f: 0141 847 5499 e: info@renfrewshirechamber.com / w: www.renfrewshirechamber.com Next issue of Business Matters is Winter 2017 Deadline for editorial and adverts is 5th Dec, issued pre-Christmas 2017 Themes are Rocco Winners, Technology, Marketing & PR Content out with themes welcomed

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Business Matters Autumn 2017

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“Setting the Benchmark”

Cll Ldr Iain Nicolson with Craig Leslie, MD of Benchmark Logistics Warehousing & Gordon Leslie Distribution Ltd

Co-Packing and Bonded storage operator Benchmark Warehousing has recently added a further 66,000 sqft of warehousing to its existing 180,000 at Hillington Park.

In a joint initiative with landlord Patrizia, Benchmark has managed to rescue an adjacent warehouse unit formally occupied

by Styropack, from possible demolition.

In return for committing to a new 15 year lease on the entire building, an incentive package was agreed between the parties. This has enabled significant upgrading to the property including a

complete new roof. “The demand for good quality warehousing continues to grow” comments Craig Leslie Managing Director of Benchmark and parent co. Gordon Leslie Distribution Ltd. Benchmark was recently awarded a contract with premium spirits company Beam Suntory to handle all point of sale material, a similar service is provided to local whisky producer Edrington Group.

This along with other business growth has prompted the expansion. “The lack of new building has meant that older stock is now being refurbished and, with a little

bit of TLC, these buildings can be very efficient and cost effective particularly in the larger user sector of the market” The work has been completed ahead of schedule and crucially before the onset of winter and will be fully operational by the end of October.

Benchmark offer full door to door Co-Packing and fulfilment services for the drinks and other related industries.

As part of the Gordon Leslie Group it can also offer a fully integrated transport solutions to complement its warehouse and fulfilment services.

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

• Bonded Warehousing • Fulfilment Solutions • Container De-stuffing • Inventory Control

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• Shrink Sleeving • Promotional Co-Packing • Consolidation • Nationwide Delivery

For information contact: www.bpss.co.uk Gary McKay, Operations Director gmckay@gordonleslie.co.uk 2 Stephenson Street, Hillington, Glasgow, G52 4JD

Business Matters Autumn 2017

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EG Chauffeur Hire

A wedding is arguably the most exciting day in a persons life and to be able to offer a service at EG Chauffeur Hire that we feel goes above and beyond for that day, gives us great pride. We do the little things different, an example of which would be our drivers and cars matching the bridal party colour with our ribbons and ties.

Although most of what we do is weddings, we offer airport transfers, private hires for events, tours, anniversaries, birthdays, formals and the rapidly expanding proms. We offer a wide variety of cars which include Jaguars, Vintage cars, Range Rovers, an Audi R8

Airport CEO to Step Down Chief Executive Officer of AGS Airports Ltd Amanda McMillan OBE has signalled her intention to stand down following a family decision to relocate to Australia.

Mrs McMillan, who also has responsibility for Glasgow Airport, where she has been Managing Director for over nine years, will continue in her role until early 2018.

AGS Airports Chairman Sir Peter Mason said: “On behalf of the AGS Board, I would like to convey our sincere thanks to Amanda for the outstanding job she has done in establishing the AGS Airports Ltd group since its creation in 2014.

“Through her distinctive brand of leadership, AGS has become one of the UK’s leading airport groups. During this period, our airports in Aberdeen, Glasgow and Southampton have benefited hugely from her drive and commitment to continually improve the customer experience for our growing number of passengers.

Mrs McMillan added: “I have thoroughly enjoyed leading AGS Airports. It is with mixed emotions that I am planning to move on, but this opportunity is one that comes at the right time for us as a family. I am immensely proud of the team at AGS which has delivered significant passenger growth, secured new carriers, built enviable destination lists and completed a series of first-class modernisation projects.”

Amanda Mcmillan OBE

and we have recently added the new Volvo S90, a car that goes beyond what a “normal” car is and M Sport vans for our exciting new golf division.

Take the stress out of your transportation needs by letting us do the driving for you.

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

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Glasgow Bearport’s lost teddy appeal captures the hearts of passengers and the public Glasgow Airport recently asked the public to paws for a moment to help reunite lost cuddly toys with their owners and the world took notice.

Every year hundreds of teddies and soft toys lose their bearings when travelling through the Airport. Some have been there fur longer than others, but all of them want to go home to their owners.

Dozens of soft toys have been left behind at the airport - or on flights to Glasgow - in the last few months from two-foot high blue monsters to tiny cuddly toys.

Somewhere in the world there are children distraught that their fluffy pals aren’t by their sides, but they’re waiting for them at Glasgow Airport’s lost items office operated by Luggage Point.

In an effort to reunite the soft toys with their owners, the airport launched a social media appeal featuring a video and mug shots of each of the cuddly critters currently held in lost and found.

The appeal went viral and captured the hearts of big softies as far afield as Australia, Japan, America, Malaysia and Germany as millions of people watched the video.

To make sure more teddies don’t go astray, Glasgow Airport also introduced a first-of-itskind ‘Take Care of my Bear’ tag to be handed out to children travelling from the airport with a soft toy.

The tags are available at check-in and can be marked with the owner’s details. Such is the Christopher Carroll and friends popularity of the ‘Teddy were on holiday and he was distraught!

Tags’ that airport staff have had to order in Thankfully, he was reunited with his furry thousands more to cope with demand. friend.

Peter Carroll, Glasgow Airport’s “When we started work on the video, communications manager, said: “Over the I thought it would be a good idea to space of a year more than 200 soft toys produce the ‘teddy tags’ to hand out to turn up in our lost and found office and kids to try and make sure that if they do during the summer months we normally lose their soft toys, there’s a better chance see an increase in these numbers. of them finding their way back home.”

“We wanted to try and reunite as many Following the appeal a number of soft soft toys as possible with their owners and toys have been reunited with their owners thought the video might work well on our and the teddy tags are now a roaring social media channels. success with young passengers at the “My four-year-old son Christopher airport. lost his beloved soft toy when where

Over 130 direct destinations – more than ever before! glasgowairport.com

Business Matters Autumn 2017

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SUCCESS IS IN STORE AT HILLINGTON PARK Being located near an international airport and close to the country’s main motorway network will always be high on the list of priorities for successful freight and logistics businesses and that rings true for those already located on Hillington Park.

The Park’s reputation as a hub for busy and thriving logistics and freight companies continues to grow as those located there experience expansion and success.

Specialist contract packing and storage business Benchmark Warehousing, a part of the international Gordon Leslie Group which has its headquarters on the estate,

recently celebrated winning a major new contract with international drinks business Beam Suntory just a short time after extending its warehouse facilities to almost 250,000 sqft.

Other international operators based at Hillington Park include NNR Global Logistics, Davies Turner, Filshill, Hayley Group, Circle Express, Steder Group and Russell Group.

Russell Group has been based at Hillington Park for over 30 years and its Hillington Distribution Centre provides warehousing, contract packing and e-fulfilment services as well as the Group’s self-storage business. Steder

Group specialises in chartering, liner agency, project logistics, warehousing and distribution.

Grant Edmondson, commercial director at Hillington Park said: “Hillington Park’s location to markets is key. It is close to Glasgow International Airport and next to the M8 motorway which also provides direct routes to ports in Greenock and Grangemouth.

Scotland’s economy will grow through manufacturing and exporting and the projected significant growth at Glasgow International Airport is good news for Hillington Park and the businesses based here.”

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Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

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MacRoberts strengthens its family law team MacRoberts has strengthened its family law team with the appointment of Marika Franceschi as a partner.

With over 12 years’ experience in the legal sector, Marika, who joins from Shoosmiths, brings extensive expertise advising on complex antenuptial contracts and high value claims for financial provision on divorce. She also deals with a wide range of issues including child residence and contact disputes, child relocation and Petitions under the Hague Convention on International Child Abduction.

Marika is a member of the Family Law Association, Scotland. She is trained in Collaborative Law and Accredited by The Law Society of Scotland as a specialist in

• • • • • • •

Family Law. She is also a Legal Adviser to the Italian Consulate General and regularly assists Italian clients with legal and business related queries in both Italy and Scotland.

Marika brings with her senior associate, Karen Nicol, who has particular expertise in permanence orders and adoption, both for local authorities and private individuals.

Jacqueline Stroud, Partner and Head of Family Law, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Marika and her team to the firm. Her experience is first-class and she will be able to offer our clients additional areas of legal expertise, particularly in relation to complex contracts for the protection

Banking & Finance Commercial Construction Corporate Defence Corporate Finance Debt Recovery Dispute Resolution

• • • • • • •

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Employment Marika Franceschi, Partner Energy of wealth and high value financial provision cases with an international IP & Technology dimension.”

Marika Franceschi commented: “Joining Pensions a firm with the history and heritage of MacRoberts is a huge privilege and Planning I look forward to further developing an outstanding family law service to Projects our clients throughout Scotland and beyond”.

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Business Matters Autumn 2017

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Variety is the Spice of Life in business too

Kelly Fitzpatrick Photography Studio

First Response

Cormack Gracie

Epitome Soft Furnishings

Jane Hunter Textile Artist

Variety Shows, Variety Packs, and for some, even the Variety Bucket from that rather famous Colonel’s deep fried chicken shop. They all have one thing in common that we’re drawn to; the variety of contents.

Whether that be watching holiday magicians with questionable Magic Circle membership credentials, or indulging in guilty pleasure chicken, no-one wants elements of grey sameness. Suffice to say, that sentiment also applies when choosing business premises.

Having connections with businesses of the same genre does have its merits, however a diverse workplace offers the perfect platform for businesses to collaborate and learn from a wide range of perspectives and ideas. One noted American author wasn’t wrong when he said, “Strength lies in differences, not in similarities”.

At Abbey Mill Business Centre, the tenant base is certainly diverse and there’s not a trace of the soulless, ashen uniformity from the initial Business Centre concept of past decades. The combination of Abbey Mill’s iconic architecture, historical significance and ultra-modern interiors, sees a hugely

diverse range of businesses attracted to its community.

Young, inspirational, creative businesses who have recently joined Abbey Mill include Epitome Soft Furnishings, Kellyann Fitzpatrick Photography and acclaimed textile artist, Jane Hunter. All are thriving amongst the more traditional business types historically associated with a business centre.

Textile artist Jane Hunter, (based in Abbey Mill’s oldest building, The Old Embroidery Mill), was naturally drawn to her new design studio space, owing to the building’s thread mill past. Originally built in 1842, the former shawl factory was the ideal place for Jane to relocate to from her former base in Ayrshire. Creating unique pieces of textile art in the inspirational surroundings of a building steeped in textile history could not have been a better fit.

Likewise, Epitome Soft Furnishings, who work with high-end, luxury brands such Anthology and Cole & Son, are delighted to be in such a unique, inspirational space. “My suppliers love the fact that my business is not only in Paisley, with its textile heritage, but actually in a former thread mill”, said owner David Sloan.

“The natural light that floods in through the windows is perfect for a productive and creative environment”.

The terrain and demographics of today’s business centres are almost unrecognisable in comparison to the first new age commercial hubs of the 1980’s, and Abbey Mill is strongly indicative of that shift change. As well as the young, creative innovators, large government organisations and national charities positively prosper and flourish alongside each other. From NHS and Abbey Mill Fitness Centre to Cormack Gracie Architects and Muir Slicer Training & Development, the tenant list at Abbey Mill could easily be mistaken for an A-Z guide of professions.

With the dawn of Abbey Mill’s new Hub development moving ever closer, the medley of business types is only set to expand. It will surely appeal to the up and coming movers and shakers of modern business and it expects to see a particular rise in more tech and creative enterprises joining the fold. Put into the mix the sagely worldliness of the more traditional business demographic, and that’s great news for collaboration and the plentiful benefits of diversity.

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

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Business Matters Autumn 2017

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You can’t code a cuppa – why the personal touch is more important than ever in the digital age At We Do Fruition, we like to think we’re at the cutting edge of technology. Whether we’re building beautiful bespoke websites, crafting creative brand strategies or sorting out stellar social media campaigns, we utilise an array of high-tech gadgets and gizmos to make sure we do the best job possible – but there’s got to be a personal touch behind the pixels.

In an age when everyone seems just as likely to tweet as talk, there’s a danger that businesses – especially smaller ones – can lose their personality. It’s the people that run our SMEs that make them unique; it’s what their clients buy into. With so much choice and competition nowadays, building relationships has never been so important.

At We Do Fruition, we always try to bring the best of both worlds. We love making the most of the myriad of digital

tools at our fingertips but just sitting down with business owners, having a cuppa, and just hearing the passion pour out of them is still one of the best – and most important – parts of the job.

As we say to all of our clients - technology is a tool that shouldn’t take away the personality of your business; it should augment it. Never underestimate the power of sitting down and doing things the old-fashioned way – face-toface and with a steaming cup of your favourite brew in your hand.

But enough about me; how have you been?

Contact details T: 07824 55 6666 E: alasdair@wedofruition.com W: www.wedofruition.com

New £10 million laundry facility opening at Inchinnan Hospitality laundry and linen services provider Berendsen is opening its new, state of the art laundry facility at Inchinnan. The company provides linen hire and laundry services to hotels and restaurants across Scotland and the UK from a national network of sites and is investing £80 million over the next three years.

In a move that represents an investment in Scotland of more than £10 million, the main laundry occupies 5,400m2 of internal space and will be washing, drying and folding around a million items of bed linen, towelling and table linen each week.

The new plant will further enhance the hotel and restaurant linen services Berendsen provides to its customers across Scotland. Hotel guests will benefit from bed linen and towelling with the highest quality of finish. This is made possible through the use of sophisticated equipment and software which ensures that every item of linen will receive its optimum wash process. Once washed, each item will then be ironed or tumble dried and folded in a process specifically designed to ensure that bed linen and towelling is clean, fresh and appealingly

presented when it’s used by guests.

Paul Swift, Business Development Manager for Berendsen’s Hospitality division, said “Independent research we have conducted with hotel guests shows that 99% of guests believe that linen quality and cleanliness is important, 97% of guests check the linen’s quality during their stay and 96% would be less likely to return if linen is not perceived as being clean or of good quality. The linen that hotels provide is an important part of the hotel experience and our new site is designed to deliver excellent quality linen for guests staying in Scotland.”

The site has been exclusively fitted out with brand-new, state of the art machinery and equipment in a modern, spacious building, taking advantage of developments in software and technology.

Innovations such as the introduction of Berendsen’s SmartLinen RFID tracking systems, which use small electronic tracking tags in the linen and the use of batch processing systems will help Berendsen to manage linen stocks, making certain that linen is always available when customers need it.

Significant planning and investment

has been devoted to minimising the plant’s environmental impact. When the Inchinnan site is operating at full capacity, carbon emissions will be reduced by over 3,000 tonnes per year, equivalent to the emissions of over 500 households, while water usage will be reduced by over 41 million litres per year compared to efficiency levels in older sites.

Berendsen has won several environmental awards and was one of the first companies in the UK to be awarded the Carbon Trust Standard certificate to recognise its success in reducing carbon emissions.

Stuart McLachlan, National Account Manager based in Scotland, said “Our new facility is a hugely exciting development. With the latest equipment and software throughout, it will enable us to deliver really excellent linen quality to our customers from a spacious new site. Both existing and new customers have been really impressed as we have shown them around the new site and explained how it will operate.”

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

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Investing ÂŁ10m to deliver innovative linen and laundry services to Scottish hoteliers and their guests.

We look after your linen, while you look after your guests.

For more information contact us on 0800 316 0120 www.berendsen.co.uk

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Business Matters Autumn 2017

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Securing the right deal for your business What can your business do to guard Over the last few years banks have against the likelihood of increasing bank sought to re-establish themselves in margins? their local communities as lenders to businesses and as a result the supply • Ensure you build and manage a good of debt has outstripped demand, relationship with your relationship leading to intense competition manager and maintain a regular and amongst banks to retain customers or flowmost of information. win new ones – in many casesCampbell bank Dallastransparent is one of the Have as a minimum dynamic and • progressive firms of at least one other lending margins remained very low independent Chartered Accountants meaningful touch pointin with your as a result. It led to some companies Our clients bank. come in all shapes being able to secure margins Scotland. that and sizes and• soUnderstand do our disciplines.

We the risk assessment were only available when there were and shape them fit process that the banktofollows, and excesses in the economy. tailor our services your needs. Ultimately we are learn about theirfocussed drivers.

The beneficiaries of this period on your peace mind helping • of Make theand lenders task you as easy as of benign margins have been those possible by providing timely and businesses that negotiated lowersucceed. accurate management information and borrowing costs for longer periods to covenant testing where required fund their investment and growth plans.

Contact Aileen Gates • 0141 Use your Banks are businesses, and wafer thin Phone 886advisors 6644 to check the structure, terms, security and pricing margins are not sustainable. However Email aileen.gates@campbelldallas.co.uk in order to ensure they are fair and change is coming and lending margins reasonable are on the rise as lenders seek to improve • Where appropriate consider renewing returns on their products and services. www.campbelldallas.co.uk facilities ahead of their expiry and Lenders use risk models to calculate try to extend better margins for an acceptable return levels which will extended period consider the track record of a business, • Finally, remind yourself that the wider financial trends, sector, revenue relationship between you and your and profit projections, asset quality, bank is crucial and it should be a security, quality and supply of financial partnership where you both want information and covenant testing.

INSPIRING BUSINESS PEOPLE

Murdoch Maclennan

the best outcome, just like any other business relationship.

Murdoch MacLennan is a Partner with Campbell Dallas and a specialist in debt advisory services. • 0141 886 6644 • murdoch.maclennan@campbelldallas. co.uk • Campbell Dallas, Titanium 1, King’s Inch Place, Renfrew, PA4 8WF

Scotland’s award winning accountants.

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Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

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Investigation and misconduct:

HELP! With Christmas approaching the pressure upon employees’ finances can become extreme. What do you do if you suspect your employee is guilty of misconduct, whether theft or otherwise? A recent case by the Employment Appeal Tribunal considered this question.

In NHS 24 v Pillar, the Claimant was employed as a Nurse Practitioner which required her to take telephone calls from the public and prioritise the cases and decide upon an appropriate clinical outcome. In December 2013 she failed to ask appropriate questions and referred a patient who had suffered a heart attack to an out-ofhours GP service instead of calling 999. There were 2 previous incidents resulting from inappropriate triage decisions. Neither led to disciplinary action as training was provided. The investigating officer in considering the present incident included these 2 previous incidents in the report to the disciplinary hearing. The Claimant was dismissed for misconduct. The Claimant argued that it was unfair (amongst other things) to include the earlier incidents when they had not led to disciplinary action.

An Employment Tribunal found the investigation to be unreasonable because it included previous matters which had not led to disciplinary proceedings. However, the Tribunal decided that the decision to dismiss was itself reasonable on the basis

of all the material included in the investigation report, including the two earlier incidents. In short the Tribunal found that NHS 24 was entitled to treat the Claimant’s conduct as gross misconduct, but the dismissal was procedurally unfair.

The Employment Appeal Tribunal allowed the employer’s appeal. The Judge noted that the test in this area, namely what investigation is needed to fairly dismiss an employee on grounds of misconduct, is one of sufficiency. The Judge could find no authority where it had been argued that the investigation included too much information although taking account of past misconduct in the decision to dismiss is a contentious area.

In all the circumstances, the Judge held that it was inconsistent and perverse to find that relevant material should have been excluded from the report sent to the dismissing officer.

Unless it could be said that the earlier incidents should never have been a factor in the decision to dismiss, there was no rational basis to exclude details of them from the investigation report. The Employment Tribunal was therefore wrong to conclude that the inclusion of that material in the report of itself rendered the dismissal unfair.

The dismissal was therefore fair.

This case is a reminder for employers that carrying out a fair procedure prior to dismissal on grounds of misconduct

David Hoey, Partner, Accredited Employment Law Specialist

is very important. The ACAS Code of Practice on Disciplinary and Grievance Procedures and the associated ACAS Guide provide very useful and practical help for employers. The investigation required will vary depending upon the circumstances of each case but deciding what investigation is required is a critical part of the process. If you suspect misconduct, ensure a fair procedure is followed, a robust investigation is carried out and that specialist employment law advice is sought. Don’t let procedural failings spoil your Christmas preparations!

Business Matters Autumn 2017

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GAP Productions and Prompt Autocue Services

Many readers of ‘Business Matters’ will have met Frank Paterson the director of GAP Productions, as he has been travelling round Renfrewshire for many years now filming for the ROCCO Awards.

Frank began working in the Broadcast, Commercials and Corporate sectors of the video production industry in the late eighties as a corporate director, production manager and editor. Today he continues to provide corporate video production services alongside his work as a part-time lecturer in video production at Glasgow Clyde College. In the past few years has also managed to carve out a niche in the provision of autocue facilities for television and in particular, live events.

Frank has found working with students very rewarding and has always been on the look out for talented individuals who can be trained as autocue operators. His approach is to provide paid training by mentoring the students on several jobs.

Once he’s confident that they can interact with clients in a professional manner, and can handle the job alone, (usually after four or five mentored training sessions), they become freelance operators hired by

Frank, and are paid at the going freelance rate.

Working as autocue operators opens up many opportunities for them. It allows them to see how scripts are written and formatted, and to work on live events and productions which gives them hugely valuable real life experience of the mechanics of television and event production, as well as fantastic Here’s Paula Bennett prior to going into rehearsal networking with Jimmy Carr in the Hilton hotel. opportunities. On the fun side, the students often get to see into a different world, and frequently get to meet and work with celebrities, always a bonus!

Earlier this year Frank was asked to provide prompting for President Barack Obama during his visit to Edinburgh.

Needless to say this was an important job, so Frank had to be there as the operator, however student trainee Natalie, (who was already working freelance for Frank), was determined

not to miss the opportunity of seeing the President’s presentation live, so it was arranged that both would go along. Here’s Natalie running the backup autocue system during President Obama’s speech.

Of course only best, and most motivated students end up working for Frank, and as the demand for autocue in Scotland is not really big enough to support numerous operators, the students eventually move on, usually into a role in broadcast television production.

For Frank, that means back to the classroom to see who the next generation of operators will be – and more training!

But there is always some consolation in knowing that the experience has helped some ex-students get their foot on the first rung of the ladder.

Frank would also like to thank the eternally patient producers and production mangers in Scotland for allowing the training to take place during their productions, often at the extra expense of feeding and watering the trainees. It’s their willingness to allow the students on to sets and stages, that helps give them the breaks they need.

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

17

Gateside Box Ltd is proud to become a member of Renfrewshire Chamber We are a new local company manufacturing timber boxes and crates for the transportation of goods. Ronnie and Ian Anderson, the directors, are experienced professionals in transport and logistics, and international business, and aim to provide a quality personal service.

Our skilled staff have many years’ experience of creating and building shipping boxes, cases and pallets, and providing the correct packaging. We understand the importance of transporting your goods in sturdy and reliable

packaging, that reflects the quality of your brand, to ensure your clients always receive your goods in top class condition.

Gateside Box is registered with Timcon and the Forestry Commission.

Our packing cases and crates are built to the very highest standard from heat treated timber making it ISPM15 compliant so it conforms to the latest IPPC Regulations.

Gateside Box also offer a supply chain partnership to ensure that you always have the required inventory of boxes, crates and pallets for the timely transportation

of your goods, and we work with you to keep your supply chain lean and cost effective. Many companies today now recognise the importance of focusing on a smaller number of core, long-term strategic supplier relationships with bestin-class vendors. Gateside Box can be your strategic timber packaging partner and take the headache out of your packaging inventory management.

For further information, please see www. gatesidebox.com or please call Ronnie on 07712 787742 or email ronald@ gatesidebox.com

“Video Marketing” by Strada Autore Filming Would you like to boost your company’s profile and potentially increase sales? Statistics show that 57% of customers were more likely to buy a product or service after watching a video about it! Video marketing is evolving. It is estimated that videos will make up 80% of all internet traffic by 2019! So why not get ahead of the game?

At Strada Autore we can offer promotional videos to help build your brand. We can produce content that is both creative and engaging. Our state of the art equipment including our drone can capture action from the sky or ceiling to give a high quality overview of your business.

Previous clients have reported a rise in business enquiries and sales with a huge increase in their social media audience, following their promotional video.

The process is simple and enjoyable. We like to arrange an initial meeting to find out about your business and what you would like your video to achieve. We will put together a story board to ensure filming on the day runs smoothly.

When you are happy with the format of the filming we can begin.

At Strada Autore we pride ourself on delivering quality content and because we know our clients are keen to see the finished article we ensure a quick turnaround time! If you would like to find out more please get in touch. E mail angelamckillop@stradaautore.com Office - 01414046214

THE NORMANDY HOTEL GLASGOW AIRPORT

Our forthcoming Tributes and Events programme is crammed full of fun and festivities - book early to avoid disappointment!

PLUS CHRISTMAS & HOGMANAY PARTY NIGHTS

Sat

18 Nov

Club 80’s featuring Gloria Starr

Fri

24 Nov

ABBA

Sat

25 Nov

Hopelessly devoted to Dirty Dancing

Fri

1 Dec

Rod Stewart

Sat

2 Dec

Tribute to the Stars

Fri

8 Dec

Motown

Sat

9 Dec

Glammeramma’s Glam Disco

Fri

15 Dec

80’s Revolution

Sat

16 Dec

Neil Diamond & Elvis

Fri

22 Dec

Gary’s Take on That & Boybands

Mon 1 Jan ‘18

Motown/Stevie Wonder First Footers TO BOOK your Tribute or Festive Party Night, call 0141 886 4100, email tributes@thenormandyhotel.co.uk or visit thenormandyhotel.co.uk

Business Matters Autumn 2017

18

Christmas at the Glynhill Hotel The family-run Glynhill Hotel is ideally located on the outskirts of Glasgow with excellent motorway links only 200 yards away providing easy access to Glasgow Airport (under five minutes) and Glasgow City (under ten minutes).

We have 145 bedrooms including our fabulous newly refurbished Boutique Rooms, available at discounted rates throughout December. Included in any overnight stay at the Glynhill is complimentary access to our leisure club to help you relax before dancing the night away.

Over £1 million has been invested in improving and upgrading the hotel’s facilities. The refurbishment of over 45 bedrooms, converting them into new, modern, chic accommodation is just part of the renovation completed within the last 12 months. Book one of our events in the Barony Ballroom and you will see for yourself the fantastic work that has been going on throughout the year in the ballroom itself, and the adjoining reception lounges.

Recognised as one of Scotland’s top five tribute venues in 2016 by the Scottish Entertainment & Hospitality Awards, the

Glynhill Hotel is the perfect venue for your Christmas Party Night!

Our Christmas programme is not just limited to party nights though, our Hogmanay Glitz & Glamour Ball is the perfect way to bring in the New Year, sounded by your friends and family, with live entertainment and DJ until 3am. This is followed by our New Year Grand Gala Buffet Dance on 1st January, which is ideal

for families, with music from our resident DJ. Why not book one of our residential packages over New Year, and relax knowing that everything is taken care of.

Christmas lunches and dinners are available throughout the month of December in our Gourmet Restaurant, and Carvery & Grill. Enquire today on 0141 886 5555, or email enquiries@ glynhill.com.

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

19

Has your organisation paid the Apprenticeship Levy?

Could you benefit from £10,000 worth of training from West College Scotland to up skill your workforce?

It’s yours for the taking.

Act today The Flexible Workforce Development Fund is allocated on a first come, first served basis and applications close on 15th December 2017 Call our friendly business liaison team on 0800 052 9612 to arrange an initial discussion on how we can help you apply to the fund and recover some value from the Apprenticeship Levy you’ve paid.

The clock is ticking…

Like us on Facebook

Follow us on twitter

t 0800 052 9612

w www.westcollegescotland.ac.uk

Business Matters Autumn 2017

20

Social Media – not just #selfies and funny cat videos If your business isn’t already active on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter these days then chances are you’ve already fallen behind your cooler, more “with it” competitors who are making the most of social media not just for marketing, but for recruitment, selling, internal communications and a whole lot more.

The numbers speak for themselves – with over 2 billion active users on Facebook, over half a billion on Instagram, and 350 million on Twitter, the benefits to businesses can be huge, and we’ve not even counted the likes of Pinterest, LinkedIn or Snapchat yet.

That said, the rapid rise of social also presents a growing number of risks – which if not considered before you just jump in and start posting selfies and cat videos, could result in disastrous consequences.

Here are three common social media risks to be aware of: Be careful what you make public Are you in the habit of sharing pictures from the office? What about those fun ‘behind the scenes’ live video broadcasts to help humanise the business? Done well it’s a great tactic, but done wrongly, and you’ve just accidentally shared all the private things on the whiteboard behind you, like giving away your sales projections, or the private mobile numbers of your senior managers. Check out our little social media experiment from a couple of years ago to prove the potential damage this might do to your business.

Staff opinions going too far Your staff can be your biggest asset, but they can also be your biggest liability. With most of them active on more than one social media platform, what they say and do can come back and bite both them, and you! It’s easy for an opinion or belief to get out of hand and too many employees have found themselves on the other end of a defamation case, or a knock on the door from the police. It’s not just their

Gary Ennis, Founder and Managing Director of NSDesign Ltd

reputation at stake, but their employer’s too – especially if you haven’t enforced a social media policy and trained your staff on the key aspects of it. The implications of a misjudged Facebook post could well prove costly to your bottom line.

Trusting the public just a little too much While social media can be a brilliant tool to engage with your customers and have some fun with them – trusting the general public to behave properly is a risk not worth taking. You’ll no doubt have heard of “Boaty McBoatface” – the name given by the public to the state-of-the-art polar research ship when the Government agency behind the project asked for a public vote on the official title. This might have left people looking a little foolish (especially after the backlash when they did an about-turn and chose not to use the name), but it was nothing compared to the reputational damage suffered by the likes of Walkers Crisps. or more recently the National Lottery and their social media campaigns allowing people to upload their pictures and names to automatically appear on

personalised messages from Gary Linekar and Team GB athletes respectively. For the public, it’s a funny joke, for your business, it’s anything but and can be difficult to recover from.

It’s easy for social media to turn bad for businesses, the three above examples prove that, but there’s many more scenarios to consider. We’ve not yet talked about the risk of infringing Employment Law rights when using social media to help with your recruitment process, the dangers of allowing public review on your Facebook page, or the breach of copyright notices you’ll inevitably get when you allow staff to update your blog or Instagram account.

Understanding the dangers of social media, and how it could impact your business is just as important as understanding the positive benefits, not just for you, but for the entire workforce, no matter how big or small the company.

For more advice, book yourself (or your employee) a space at our next Embrace the Space masterclass - taking place in Hillington on December 1st. Or follow Gary on twitter: @nsdesign or instagram: @nsdesignltd.

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

21

Storage Vault Work Space

Storage Vault provides expert selfstorage solutions to domestic and business storage customers. We offer a wide-range of self-storage units in Glasgow & Paisley (from 25sqft up to 700sqft, larger space also available on request) with prices starting from only £10/week.

We pride ourselves in making the customer experience as easy and as hassle-free as possible. All storage is situated on the ground floor, and we provide on-site trolleys for easy manoeuvrability. We have friendly and helpful staff on-site seven days a week who are more than happy to assist in any way possible. First two month’s storage

comes half price, and referring a friend to us can earn you £50 cash!

Sites are monitored 24/7 by CCTV surveillance and access to the facilities is guarded by a unique entry system code.

We also offer customers top of the range padlocks to guarantee the safety of their belongings.

In addition to self-storage, we also run Storage Vault Work Space, offering high-grade office space suitable for any type of business. All our office tenants are supplied with superfast broadband, free use of meeting and conference rooms, and have full access to their work spaces 24/7 through pin code entry. We also provide fully stocked kitchen facilities and

comfortable lounge areas.

Whether you want to store a full home’s worth of possessions or just a few pieces of furniture, we have the perfect storage unit for you. Contact us on 0800 802 1822, or visit our website at www.storagevault.com.

Hillington, Friday 1st December: 9.30am – 4.30pm

EMBRACE THE SPACE

NS DESIGN helps businesses do things better online.

Our next social media masterclass takes place on Friday 1st December at Hillington. We believe every business can get what they want from Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin and the rest in less than 20 minutes a day. ‘Embrace The Space’ will show you how.

More details at www.embracethespace.co.uk

Business Matters Autumn 2017

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Nespresso Business Solutions A cup of Nespresso is more than just a coffee – it is an experience to be savoured. It combines perfection and pleasure, simplicity and aesthetic. Most of all, quality is at the heart of what we do.

When your company’s reputation depends on consistently delivering excellence, the quality of your coffee should be no different.

Through our Business Solutions we enable your company to offer the perfect cup of coffee to your employees, clients and customers, every time. We provide a full range

of robust machines and coffees in high volumes to meet the specific needs of your business, whatever the size. We offer customised solutions for the world’s most foremost hotels, restaurants and business customers. And to guarantee the same level of quality sip after sip, we offer a dedicated after-sales service with a rapid response, tailored to your business needs.

We’re also committed to making a positive impact by supporting the people who grow our coffee beans.

We work hand in hand with coffee

growing communities and over 70,000 farmers worldwide through our Nespresso AAA Sustainable Quality™ program. Our aim is to provide local communities with the right support from training and financing to technical assistance.

With 13 permanent Nespresso Grands Crus to choose from, each with a distinct origin and unique blend, our refined range will help you exceed expectations for quality and taste. Your customers and employees can savour our different coffee families, ristretto, lungo, pure origin, flavoured and decaf.

ROOMS AVAILABLE FOR HIRE AT GLASGOW AIRPORT • Ideal for meetings, interviews, training, seminars & workshops • 4 rooms, space for 1-20 people • Free wifi & free parking • New LED screens - HDMI & VGA ports • Catering available • Price guarantee

Export Documentation Did you know we certify 15,000 export documents a year for 70 clients?

Members receive a significant discount.

Contact Laura Connor at the Chamber for more info lconnor@renfrewshirechamber.com / 0141 847 5465

Glasgow Airport Business Centre c/o Renfrewshire Chamber Bute Court, St Andrew’s Drive Glasgow Airport PA3 2SW 0141 847 5450 info@renfrewshirechamber.com www.renfrewshirechamber.com

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

23

Paisley 2021 announced as ROCCO 2017 Main Sponsor The Chamber is delighted to announce the main sponsor for ROCCO 2017 is Paisley 2021.

Jean Cameron, Paisley 2021 Bid Director, said: “We are pleased to be supporting the ROCCOs and helping to recognise and reward the fantastic work of businesses operating across Renfrewshire.

“The business community has strongly ‘backed the bid’ and we are so grateful for their support - it has been integral to the momentum that the campaign has built up over the last two years, as has the support of the Chamber.

“Winning the UK City of Culture 2021 title would bring significant economic benefits to the entire region and businesses have been quick to recognise and acknowledge this. We are onto the ‘final push’ now and I’d ask everyone to keep showing the same enthusiasm and support for Paisley 2021 as we go for the win!”.

Following the second stage bid submission in September the final decision on Paisley’s bid for UK City of Culture 2021 is expected from the UK Government’s Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport in December 2017.

16 Winners will be announced at the glittering Rocco Awards Ceremony on Friday 17th November at the Normandy Hotel, Renfrew, hosted by Rocco favourite Fred MacAulay.

To find out more on Paisley 2021, visit www.paisley2021.co.uk, like Paisley2021 on Facebook or follow @Paisley2021 on Twitter and Instagram.

Jean Cameron Paisley 2021 Bid Director with Tom Johnston

Business matters, so when it comes to events call Cameron’s - The Event People.

Business Matters Autumn 2017

24

Business leaders say Renfrewshire ‘open for business’ at first meeting of new leadership panel to drive area’s economy

Jim Carswell, Senior Operations Director, Thermo Fisher, Johnny Mone, Head of Enterprise, UWS, Bob Grant, CEO, RCC; Vince McKeown, Director, SCDI; Amanda McMillan, MD, Glasgow Airport; Andrew Malcolm, CEO, Malcolm Group; Sandra Black Chief Executive Renfrewshire Council; Brian Clarke, Joint Owner, Park Lane (Scotland) Ltd; Audrey Cumberford, Principal and Chief Executive, West College Scotland and Chair of Panel, Nick Shields, Head of SMAS, Scottish Enterprise; Cllr Iain Nicolson, Leader, Renfrewshire Council; Gordon McGuinness, Director of Industry & Enterprise Networks, SDS; Stuart Macdonald, MD, Seric; Scott McEwan, Chief Executive, Boston Networks; Ian McFadyen, CEO, Scottish Leather Group Ltd; Gary Ennis, MD, NS Design Ltd; Peter Beagley, Regional Centre Director, Intu Braehead

Renfrewshire’s business and education leaders have joined forces to work together to drive the region’s future economic success at the first meeting of Renfrewshire’s Economic Leadership Panel.

The 18-member panel has been drawn from across the private and public sector along with representatives from further and higher education and national agencies.

It includes businesses such as Malcolm Group, Scottish Leather Group, Hewlett Packard and Diageo.

Together, the panel will work together to develop a long-term economic strategy for Renfrewshire from 2018-2035.

Audrey Cumberford, Principal and Chief Executive of West College Scotland chaired the opening panel meeting which was hosted by University of the West of Scotland.

Panel members considered Renfrewshire’s current economic position which showed Renfrewshire is home to the second highest percentage of people in employment with an academic degree or professional qualification.

The area has also seen the biggest jobs

growth in Scotland for young people four years in a row, lifting Renfrewshire from 27th for youth employment to fourth in Scotland.

More than 90 percent of companies in Renfrewshire are micro-businesses, while the area is also home to major employers including Glasgow Airport and Intu Braehead.

The panel considered the key issues facing Renfrewshire such as the low population growth forecast over the next 20 years, and received a detailed presentation on the Brexit implications for Renfrewshire.

Audrey Cumberford, Principal and Chief Executive of West College Scotland and Chair of the Renfrewshire Economic Leadership Panel said: “We all share a commitment to Renfrewshire and its long term economic success and despite a number of challenges, there is exciting potential for the area now and in the future. We want to send a clear message that Renfrewshire is open for business and is an attractive place to live, work and invest in.

“This is the first time such a panel has been brought together and it is up to us

to ensure the business community and those responsible for knowledge and skills development are working closely together, putting Renfrewshire’s economic development at the heart of our work.”

Renfrewshire Council Leader Iain Nicolson said: “Renfrewshire is home to a fantastic range of businesses big and small, all making a vital contribution to the local, national and international economy.

“The Renfrewshire Strategic Economic Framework highlighted the importance of strong engagement with the private sector and educational partners to drive forward local economic development and set out the establishment of the Renfrewshire Economic Leadership Panel as a strategic priority.

“I’m very pleased to see the panel start its work today. Its members and the organisations they represent will play a hugely important role in accelerating the economic fortunes of Renfrewshire and supporting us to make Renfrewshire an attractive place to live, work and visit.”

The panel will meet four times a year and the draft economic strategy is scheduled for next summer.

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

25

New services for ALL Chamber members Four services for your protection and peace of mind Chamber HR

Chamber Health & Safety

Advice line - Unlimited access* to experienced HR advisors 24/7, 365 days a year

Advice line – unlimited access* to health & safety specialist advisors during office hours

Website - over 350 downloadable employment documents

Website with over 200 downloadable health & safety documents

Insurance – cover for employment disputes including representation costs and awards

Insurance – cover to help you defend health & safety prosecutions

Chamber Legal

Chamber Tax

Advice line –unlimited access* to experienced legal advisors 24/7, 365 days a year

Advice line – unlimited access* to experienced tax advisors

Website with approximately 200 downloadable legal documents for a business

Advice line – unlimited access to experienced VAT advisors

Insurance – cover for your business includes property disputes, data protection, licence protection, criminal prosecution plus jury service

Insurance – cover to deal with a full HMRC enquiry, aspect enquiries, PAYE disputes and VAT disputes

Insurance – cover for employees includes personal injury, motor disputes and wrongful arrest defence

One Advice line

One Website

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Features a massive document library with 750 downloadable template documents

Providing cover across 11 sections, up to £100,000 per claim and £1,000,000 in the annual aggregate

Access to HR, Legal, Health & Safety, Tax and VAT advice

Employment, health & safety and legal documents

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*unlimited access is subject to a fair use policy

Business Matters Autumn 2017

26

ROCCO 2017 Shortlist announced Renfrewshire Chamber is delighted to announce the 2017 shortlist for their annual business awards, the ROCCO’s. Now in their 14th year, the ROCCO’s are the premier business event in Renfrewshire. Main sponsor is Paisley 2021 for UK City of Culture. 16 winners will be announced at the ceremony hosted by ROCCO regular Fred MacAulay (17th November at the Normandy Hotel in Renfrew).

Commenting on the awards – Chamber chief executive Bob Grant said “thank you to all the organisations that entered, this year we have seen a large volume of entries. As always the standard of entry was high so I know many people that are not shortlisted will be disappointed – we hope you will consider entering again next year. 14 of the 16 awards will require the shortlisted organisations to present to our judging panels w/c 23rd Oct at the Chamber Business Centre, Glasgow Airport”.

The full shortlist is:

ROCCO Award for Excellence in Customer Services

ROCCO Award for Enterprise in Education

sponsored by the Scottish Leather Group:

• Rolls-Royce Plc • SmartSTEMS • Todholm Primary School

• Sarah-Lou Beauty • Spectrum Service Solutions Ltd • University of the West of Scotland

ROCCO Award for Innovation & Technology sponsored by Hillington Park: • Bolt Learning Ltd • The Jaw Brewery Ltd • Scottish Leather Group

sponsored by the University of the West of Scotland:

ROCCO Award for Excellence in Manufacturing Developing the Young Workforce (West): • Diageo Plc • Rolls-Royce Plc • Thermo Fisher Scientific

ROCCO Award for International Trade

Invest in Renfrewshire ROCCO Award

sponsored by Glasgow Airport: • Caledonian Industries Ltd • Diageo Plc • Rolls-Royce Plc

sponsored by Invest in Renfrewshire / Renfrewshire Council: • Gormac Coachworks Ltd • Papamacs Gourmet Kitchen • Renfrewshire Leisure Ltd

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

27 Running a growing business in Renfrewshire?

Make us part of your plans

ROCCO Award for Most Promising New Business

ROCCO Award for Family Business of the Year

0141 585 6353 sponsored by Business Gateway: www.bgateway.com • Bolt Learning Ltd • Consilium Contracting Services Ltd • Kenneth Keegan Independent “ Funeral I’d likeDirectors to update

sponsored by the Malcolm Group: • Kenneth Keegan Independent Funeral Directors • The Jaw Brewery Ltd • Spectrum Service Solutions Ltd

For any successful business a network of trusted advisers is vital. Business Gateway Renfrewshire provides practical support and advice to growing Renfrewshire businesses every year.

my professional qualifications ”

West College Scotland offers a range of professional training and development courses to help you update your skills.

Business Gateway services are delivered by Local Authorities, Scottish Enterprise and Scottish Government with the support of associated partner organisations.

ROCCO Award for Young Business Person of the Year

ROCCO Award for Employer of the Year THE ROYAL ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH

INSTITUTE OF SCOTLAND

sponsored by West College Scotland: • Suzanne McKellar - McKellar Accountancy • Adil Khan, Harrods Drycleaners • Scott Sharkey – Matrix International Sourcing Ltd First Aid

sponsored by Rolls Royce: • Clark Contracts Ltd • Renfrewshire Leisure • Storage Vault Ltd

Clydebank Campus 0141 951 7555 Greenock Campus 01475 553 044 Paisley Campus 0141 581 2121

t

0300 600 6060

w www.westcollegescotland.ac.uk

ROCCO Award for Community Champion of the Year

ROCCO Award for Outstanding Business 5 or less staff

sponsored by Engage Renfrewshire & RBS: • Klas Care C.I.C. ltd • Paisley YMCA • StreetStuff

sponsored by intu Braehead: • Kalamath Consultancy Ltd • Angelwax Ltd • Bricklane Studios Ltd

ROCCO Award for Outstanding Business >5 & <25 staff

ROCCO Award for Outstanding Business >25 staff

sponsored by Renfrewshire Council: • PlanB Consulting Ltd • Stafffinders Ltd • Storage Vault Ltd

sponsored by Milne Craig Accountants: • NCT Leather and WJ&W Lang Ltd • Spectrum Service Solutions Ltd • West College Scotland

ROCCO Award for Business Leader of the Year

ROCCO Award for Renfrewshire’s Favourite Business

sponsored by Diageo, shortlisted nominations are:

sponsored by the Paisley Daily Express: • Cafe Su • ComicCrazy • Elderslie Butchers & Coffee Shop • Origins Fitness • Pandemonium • The Cave

• Audrey Cumberford - Principal & Chief Executive West College Scotland • Joyce McKellar - Chief Executive Renfrewshire Leisure Ltd • Sara Speirs - MD Spectrum Service Solutions Ltd • Stuart Macdonald – MD Seric Systems Ltd The winner will be announced on the night.

Top 6 voting will open soon online with the Paisley Daily Express. The company with the most votes by 26th of October will be crowned the winner on the night.

Business Matters Autumn 2017

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Spectrum wins in the British Awards Leading Renfrewshire based Soft Facilities Management company, Spectrum Service Solutions has won an award in the Scottish heats of the Chamber Business Awards 2017.

As winners of the “Excellence in Customer Service Award”, Spectrum Service Solutions will now go forward to represent Scotland in the national finals, which take place in London in November.

Now in their 14th year, the Awards are a highlight of the business calendar, recognising the key role that local businesses play in driving the UK economy. Talking about the awards, Francis Martin, President of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) said, “Businesses are the backbone and driving force of the UK economy. Even in the face of uncertain times, they continue to show their resilience and strength – creating opportunities for employment, investment and growth.

“Our judges are always impressed by the high standard of submissions, and the calibre of entries this year was no different. The finalists in the Chamber Business Awards represent the best of this country’s entrepreneurial spirit,

creativity and hard-work. The Chamber Business Awards are the perfect opportunity for us to celebrate our business communities’ achievements, to take stock of the outstanding performances of UK businesses over the past year, and to encourage and inspire others to follow in their footsteps.”

Spectrum Services MD Sara Speirs with Tom Johnston This award is the delivering excellent service to all of our latest recognition the company has clients and this award recognises the received for their attention to customer hard work put in by every member of service; they are previous finalist in the staff in the delivery of our services. We same category at the Glasgow Business are now looking forward to representing Awards and the ROCCO Awards.

Scotland at the finals in London in Speaking about the most recent win, November”.

Spectrum’s Managing Director, Sara The National winners will be Speirs said, “I’m delighted to have won announced at the Gala Awards Dinner the Scottish heat of these prestigious UK on Thursday 30th November at the awards run by the British Chambers Brewery, London. of Commerce. We are very focused on

Mark Brown Retires The chamber bade farewell to Mark Brown as he retired at the end of September.

Mark has delivered the mentoring program for the last four years and in that time, he has matched almost 500 businesses with a mentor.

The mentoring program operates with the help of 900 volunteers who are experienced business people willing to give time back to help you grow your business.

Mark said “I’ve enjoyed my time at Renfrewshire Chamber immensely and an looing forward to a well-earned break.”

Bob Grant, chief exec said - “Mark has been an integral part of the chamber team in the last four years and we wish him a happy and well-earned retirement.”

Mentoring Exec Mark Brown & Chief Exec Bob Grant

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

29

China success marks new era of business-led trade growth Scotland’s business-to-business links with China have reached a “turning point” thanks to pro-active privatesector leadership, the chief executive of Scottish Chambers of Commerce Liz Cameron said today.

Speaking in the wake of a milestone event in Glasgow on Tuesday, where SCC hosted Beijing’s Ambassador to the UK H.E. Liu Xiaoming along with Cabinet Secretary for the Economy Keith Brown MSP and 200 Scottish businesses with China interests, Liz Cameron said: “As the Ambassador said in his excellent speech, we in Scotland need to take solid steps to promote ChinaScotland business cooperation.”

“SCC is successfully taking those practical steps. Businesses in Scotland are now recognising that it is they themselves who have the power to increase the nation’s exporting performance. The Scottish Government and its agencies have a role in creating the right environment but we can no longer expect them to magically increase the number of businesses who export. We businesses, large and small, must take more of the initiative ourselves.”

“The new model we are pioneering with our China engagement exploits international business-to-business connections that have been woefully underused up to now. The China project is a turning point. The pro-active engagement of businesses has been phenomenal and the quick and early successes speak for themselves.”

Ms Cameron continued: “China is a massively market but it is just the start.

Especially in the wake of the Brexit vote, Scottish business needs to be taking the lead on forging new trade ties in new and exciting markets throughout the world, and through our Chamber network we will support them in this endeavour.”

The recognition of the value of business-to-business (B2B) links was echoed by economy secretary Keith Brown who praised the “extremely important work” of SCC “in collaboration with the Scottish Government.”

(Left to Right) Liz Cameron OBE, Director & Chief Executive, Scottish Chambers of Commerce, Tim Allan, President, Scottish Chambers of Commerce & His Excellency, Liu Xiaoming, China’s Ambassador to the UK

“That work is involved in promoting trade through better connections with overseas chambers and their members.

It exemplifies something we need to do more of in Scotland. We realise you have many strengths and these are best realised when we work together.”

In his widely-praised speech at Tuesday’s dinner in Glasgow’s Central Hotel, co-hosted by the education organisation The Confucius Institute, Ambassador Liu congratulated the Scottish Chambers of Commerce for their trade activity in China.

In April this year a high-level Chambers delegation opened the network’s first overseas office in Yantai, a port city in China’s 100 million-population Shandong Province.

Mr Liu also urged greater co-operation between Scotland and China more generally saying: “China and Scotland can find more new areas where our interests converge, where our respective policies align with each other and where we can engage in cooperation.

“This could range from local government collaboration to business

and financial ties, from scientific and technological innovation to new energy, and from culture and education to tourism and health care.”

As well as thanking the Ambassador, Liz Cameron also paid tribute to the support of economy secretary Keith Brown for his “true leadership in trusting and respecting the role of the Scottish Chamber Network across Scotland, to inspire and lead the wider Business Community by developing new models of international B2B partnerships.”

Tim Allan, President of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce, who led the April 2017 trade visit, and hosted the Glasgow dinner said that Scottish companies should embrace China’s vast global infrastructure investment and trade vision known as One Belt One Road, and urged them to be “Chinaready and China-friendly”.

“We must build relationships with Chinese business: to better understand their needs, their interests and their demands and to find ways through relationships, time and trust to meet those needs.” He said.

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Chamber Up &

Pictures Coming

Events See our events section on our website: www.renfrewshirechamber.com 0141 847 5450 events@renfrewshirechamber.com

The Business of Culture

October Networking Lunch with Marc Crothall, CEO Scottish Tourism Alliance Thurs 2nd Nov 12pm-2pm Holiday Inn, Glasgow Airport

Aug Networking Lunch

Corinne Hutton Finding your Feet

Pitch & Roll

Pupils from Gleniffer High

Pupils from Glennifer with Tom Johnston & Corrine Hutton

Tom Johnston & Gavin Brogan Site Director Diageo Shieldhall

Pitch & Roll Networking Breakfast Innovation Centre Hillington Park Wed 8th Nov 8am-9.15am

ROCCO 2017 Fri 17th Nov 2017 at the Normandy with host Fred MacAulay.

BUSINESS AWARDS 2017

November Networking Lunch with Prof Phil Hanlon, Chair, Accord Hospice & Stephen McClellan, CEO, RAMH Thurs 30th Nov 12pm-2pm David Lloyd Renfrew

AGM Thurs 14th Dec 11.30am-12pm Christmas Lunch 12pm-2.30pm The Glynhill facebook.com/renfrewshirechamberofcommerce Follow the chamber: David Watt CEO Arts & Business Scotland

twitter.com/renfrewshirecoc

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

31

New Members

On behalf of the Board of Directors and the Chamber staff we would like to welcome onboard the following new members.

Advantage Worldwide

The Ramsay Partnership

Jennifer Tsang Jewellery

Freight Forwarder / Logistics Kenneth Brodie 0141 887 2368 kenneth.brodie@advantageworldwide. co.uk www.advantageworldwide.co.uk

HR Consultancy Employment Law Carol Logan 0141 248 6996 carol.logan@theramsaypartnership.com www.theramsaypartnership.com

Jewellery Designer Jennifer Tsang 0141 618 6040 j.tsang@hotmail.co.uk

Jennyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Well - Royal Blind Healthcare Morag Francis 0773 880 3532 morag.francis@royalblind.org https://www.royalblind.org/care-for-olderpeople/our-care-homes/jennys-well-paisley

Gateside Box Ltd Shipping Crates / Packaging Ronald Anderson 0771 278 7742 ronald@gatesidebox.com www.gatesidebox.com/

AMT (Armstrong Massage Therapy) Sports & Remedial Massage Therapy Annette Armstrong 07885 391 410 armstrong.massagetherapy1@gmaqil.com www.armstrongmassagetherapy.co.uk

Smaart Solutions Ltd Management Consultancy Claire Otudeko 07391 711 789 claire@smaartsolutionslighthouse.com www.smaartsolutionslighthouse.com

Storage Vault Drive -Up Self Storage & Work Space Donna Ritchie or Deborah Jack 0141 887 1000 paisley@storagevault.com www.storagevault.com

We Do Fruition Ltd Digital Marketing/Websites/Branding Alasdair Burns 07824 55 6666 alasdair@wedofruition.com www.wedofruition.com

Elle Marie Property

Industrial Laundry Service 0800 316 0120 www.berendsen.co.uk

Estate Agent Louise Kane 0141 812 5482 louise@ellemarieproperty.co.uk www.ellemarieproperty.co.uk

Vehicles for Lease

Loopy Lally Designs

Vehicle Leasing Colin Guinea & Michael Hayes 01505 851155 07790 015 888 colin@vehiclesforlease.co.uk michael@vehiclesforlease.co.uk www.vehiclesforlease.co.uk

Interior Textiles Chloe Wright 0141 618 6040 chloe-wright@hotmail.com

Berendsen

Strada Autore Filming Videography Angela McKillop 0141 404 6214 angelamckillop@stradaautore.com www.stradaautore.com

Two Hands Studio Book Maker Gillian Stewart 0141 618 6040 gilliancstewart@gmail.com

LAKE&LOCH Products Inspired by the Scottish Outdoors Jennifer Clapp 0141 618 6040 jennifer@lakeandloch.com

Josef McFadden Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fashion Wear Designer Josef McFadden 0141 618 6040 sales@josefmcfadden.com

Mechelina Creates & Designs Silk / Cashmere Organic Dyed Accessories Johanna Pronk 0141 618 6040 mechelinastudios@gmail.com

CP Construction Solutions Ltd Construction Chris Dickson & Paul Kane 0141 611 0164 / 07478 315 354 chris@cpconstructionsolutions.co.uk www.cpconstructionsolutions.co.uk

Bluewater Dental Dentist Francesca Webster & Barry Lemon 01505 843 105 info@bluewaterdentist.co.uk www.bluewaterdentist.co.uk

Nespresso Business Solutions Coffee & Equipment Supplies Farah Hussain 07980919456 farah.hussain@lyreco.com www.nespresso.com/pro/uk/en/pages/office

Business Matters Autumn 2017

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Global higher education conference comes to Scotland Prof. Craig Mahoney

University of the West of Scotland played host to an international higher education conference at its Paisley Campus from 28 June to 30 June as part of its annual Festival of Learning.

The Higher Education Teaching and Learning conference (HETL) was hosted in the UK for the first time ever. The event saw more than 250 delegates from four continents gather to help address challenges and opportunities within the higher education sector on the issues of inclusion and diversity.

Now in its 5th year, the conference is set within the context of growing participation rates in higher education across the world, thanks to increased internationalisation, a growing democratisation of higher education and the emergence of lifelong learning being viewed as a basic human right.

Over the course of the three day conference, delegates took part in workshops and plenaries to address key questions on creating a more inclusive culture through exploring new teaching methods, curriculum innovation, community partnerships and emerging areas of research.

The conference allowed for different institutions to share best practice and

knowledge in the field. As a higher education institution, UWS is passionate about Inclusion and diversity and currently leads the way in Scotland in attracting students from diverse socio-economic backgrounds.

UWS Principal and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Craig Mahoney, delivered a keynote speech on inclusion and participation and was joined by a number of other influential speakers.

Dame Ruth Silver, who co-chairs the Skills Commission and who was heavily involved in the Scottish Government’s independent commission on widening access shared her experiences of shaping policy in higher education. Professor Lorraine Stefani of the University of Auckland, spoke on inclusive leadership and Dr Jaimie Hoffman of the University of Southern California, whose research and leadership focuses on student experience and access to education, shared knowledge of best practice.

Professor Craig Mahoney said: “We understand the need to develop integrated, inclusive educational experiences and teaching and learning environments. At UWS we strongly value and encourage diversity and aim to provide an innovative learning environment for our

students. We are particularly proud that, compared to other Scottish universities, we attract the highest proportion of students from diverse socio-economic backgrounds.

“We hope that by hosting the HETL conference here at UWS, we can help drive forward inclusivity and diversity – two principles which help form the backbone of a successful global higher education sector - alongside promoting innovative teaching and learning.”

Dr Patrick Blessinger, Executive Director and Chief Research Scientist at HETL, said: “As a result of the growing diversity of student populations, higher education institutions around the globe have started to move beyond relatively simple widening participation initiatives.

There is now a move towards a total inclusion philosophy that is focused on transforming institution and cultures that embrace all backgrounds, abilities, identities.

“UWS is a prime example of an institution which takes an innovative person-centred approach to help tackle some of the inclusion challenges facing the sector and is making great strides in doing so. It was only fitting, therefore, that the 2017 HETL conference took place at UWS in Paisley.”

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

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UWS in top 100 of national league table UWS is celebrating climbing into the top 100 of The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide for the first time.

UWS is placed 100 in the latest edition of the league table, which is officially published on 24th September.

This is an increase of six places from last year.

UWS is also ranked in the top three of Scottish universities for teaching excellence. UWS delivers outstanding teaching for its students and places significant importance on this, ensuring that it continues to be one of the University’s key strengths.

The excellent placing in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2018 follows the publication

earlier this month of the Times Higher Education’s World University Rankings, which saw UWS climb to the overall category of 501-600 out of the 1100+ institutions assessed by THE. This means that UWS is officially recognised as being in the top 3% of universities worldwide.

Earlier in the year the University

was also ranked in the world’s top 200 universities under 50 years of age in the Times Higher Education (THE) Young University Rankings 2017.

Professor Craig Mahoney, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of UWS, said: “This is fantastic news and is yet another example of the significant progress we are making and of the hard work and commitment of colleagues across UWS. “Our strong ranking for teaching excellence is particularly pleasing and is testament to our strong commitment to providing studentcentred, personalised and distinctive learning and teaching experiences underpinned by professionally relevant research, knowledge exchange and enterprise.”

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Business Matters Autumn 2017

34

UWS and Alzheimer Scotland build on long-standing links Building on their close links, University of the West of Scotland and Alzheimer Scotland have recently signed a Strategic Partnership Agreement.

The University is a leader in the field in the Scottish higher education sector for dementia-related teaching and research.

The Alzheimer Scotland Centre for Policy and Practice at UWS provides a high quality environment for applied research, education and enterprise. It is a centre of excellence, advancing dementia policy and practice through education and applied research in Scotland and beyond.

The Dementia Champions programme which forms a key part of the Scottish Government’s National Dementia Strategy is led by the Centre. This important programme, which creates ‘Dementia Champions’ to improve the quality of care provided for people with dementia and caring families, is a major part of the Centre’s national workforce development.

Dementia care is embedded in the University’s nursing courses and every aspect of students’ training is careerfocused: they learn the essential skills they need to help people in this extremely difficult stage of life. At the root of all the activity is the University’s close partnership with Alzheimer Scotland.

Both organisations have ambitious and far-reaching strategic development plans aimed at the provision of research and skills development to support the innovative and effective delivery of high quality dementia care within the integrated health and social care landscape in Scotland.

UWS and Alzheimer Scotland are committed to working collaboratively to support the advancement of their

Henry Simmons and Karen Wilson

respective strategic objectives and this new Partnership will see both organisations focus resources on shared priority areas. These primarily concern a joint commitment to further develop the Alzheimer Scotland Centre for Dementia Policy & Practice; increasing collaborative working to influence policy; and shaping practice in dementia care, developing new and innovative interventions that reflect current needs and emerging policy.

Karen Wilson, Dean of the University’s School of Health, Nursing and Midwifery, said: “We are delighted to have further enhanced our links with Alzheimer Scotland, which has been a close partner of ours for so many years.

“The School of Health, Nursing and Midwifery is committed to making an important and lasting contribution to our society and this partnership will result in even more benefits to those living, and caring for a loved one with, dementia.”

Dementia is the biggest health and social care challenge faced by society today. There are around 90,000 people living with dementia in Scotland and around 3,200 are under the age of 65. By the year 2020 there will be more than 1 million people living with dementia in the UK. Alzheimer Scotland is passionate that nobody should face dementia alone.

Henry Simmons, Chief Executive of Alzheimer Scotland, said: “It is hugely important for us to work in partnership with researchers who are dedicated to developing better practice in dementia.

We must never lose sight of the people living with dementia today who can, and should, benefit from dementia research. University of the West of Scotland is at the forefront of developing new ideas and approaches to improve quality of care and quality of life for people with dementia and those who care for them.”

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

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INTU BRAEHEAD MAKES £334.9 MILLION IMPACT ON LOCAL ECONOMY Shopping centre intu Braehead contributed £334.9 million to the local economy last year* according to a new report by owner intu.

A total of 8226 local jobs were also supported by intu Braehead in 2016, representing ten per cent of all jobs in the area. intu owns many of the UK’s largest and most popular shopping centres and the research from planning consultants Lichfields measured the economic impact of each centre to reveal how much retail destinations and physical stores are worth to their local areas as a result of employment, regional investment and business rates paid.

It found the total contribution by intu shopping centres grew by £700 million

in 2016, from £4.2 billion in 2015. The number of jobs they supported across the country increased by 14 per cent to more than 137,000, with a total wage bill of £1.9 billion. intu’s development pipeline is expected to generate an additional 31,000 jobs and a further £1.95 billion for the economy over the next ten years.

Regional Centre Director with responsibility for intu Braehead, Peter Beagley said: “Creating and managing retail and leisure destinations that customers want to visit helps businesses flourish across the country, drives up investment in towns and cities and establishes real local prosperity. The jobs they create cater for a wide range of skills and abilities

and deliver more entry-level and flexible routes into employment.”

Alexander Nicoll, corporate responsibility director at intu, added: “We invest millions in our centres and their local communities every year.

This allows us to create long-lasting and positive change by delivering skills, employment and health and wellbeing.”

Visit intugroup.co.uk for more information.

Royal Blind expands to Renfrewshire Royal Blind, Scotland’s largest visual impairment organisation, is opening a new care home in Paisley in October 2017. Jenny’s Well Care Home specialises in caring for older people with sight loss, including those who may have other medical needs such as dementia. The care home has been purpose built for people with sight loss with specialist lighting that reduces glare, tactile signage, talking noticeboards and a sensory garden.

Our staff are all fully trained in working with visually impaired people. Jenny’s Well is Royal Blind’s second specialist care home, following on from Braeside House in Edinburgh. Registrations for places are available at www.royalblind. org/jennys-well Alongside the care home, Royal Blind’s sister charity Scottish War Blinded has constructed an activity and support centre for visually impaired veterans.

The Hawkhead Centre opens at the same time as Jenny’s Well and will

provide independent living skills, social opportunities and a wide range of activities including sports, arts and woodwork.

The centre is open to anyone who has

served in the armed forces and has lost their sight, either during conflict or subsequently. To join Scottish War Blinded for free visit www.scottishwarblinded.org

Business Matters Autumn 2017

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City of Culture is good for wellbeing Chief Executive Stephen McLellan writes about why Paisley 2021 will provide a boost to mental health: At RAMH we are delighted to hear that Paisley has been shortlisted as one of the final 5 nominations for City of Culture 2021. Having provided mental health services across the west of Scotland since 1990, we know the positive impact that culture and creativity has on mental health and wellbeing.

Culture and creativity are essential for sustained good mental health because self expression is meaningful. We are all too aware of the benefits of the arts in mental health recovery; at RAMH we regularly use singing, drama, writing and woodwork for their therapeutic value, and to lessen symptoms such as anxiety and depression. Being creative boosts energy levels and feelings of wellbeing, plus it strengthens immunity and decreases stress. Our monthly Culture Club supports people, regardless of their background or diagnosis, to access local music, comedy, cinema and exhibitions, because engaging with the arts brings a sense of joy and hope. In essence, it’s food for the soul.

Equally, having a sense of identity and belonging, and a feeling that you are part of a thriving community is crucial for enhancing mental health.

Everybody needs to feel connected to their environment, and connected to the people around them. Connectedness overcomes loneliness and social isolation, which can negatively impact our mental

RAMH Chief Executive Stephen McLellan

and physical health, and is said to be as detrimental as smoking 15 cigarettes per day. Being connected brings benefits such as increased confidence and self esteem, feelings of being valued, the opportunity to use existing skills and learn new things.

In turn it improves people’s chances in life.

RAMH continues to build on its reputation for being a progressive provider of mental health services by developing “social prescribing” services in GP surgeries. Social prescribing is a non medical intervention that focuses on an individual’s strengths, interests and passions and provides opportunities to get involved in arts, sport, community groups or other therapeutic activity. It is successful because it has increased

patients’ wellbeing, and in some cases has reduced their symptoms and need for medication. In many cases, addressing the roots of someone’s wellbeing and mental health and making non medical efforts to improve this, has led to a reduction in GP appointments, thus reducing the pressure that much of our local health care system is currently under.

We’re hugely excited by the prospect of Paisley 2021 and the boost it will bring to the wellbeing of all people in our communities, and across the west of Scotland. We are certain that the project will have a long term positive effect within local communities, and we look forward to hearing the result being announced in December.

RAMH achieve GOLD for investing in people Charity bosses have congratulated their staff for helping them to achieve an Investors In People Gold Award.

Mental Health charity RAMH have recently been awarded the prestigious accolade following a rigorous evaluation of standards across the organisation.

Operations Manager Shirley McCuish said “this is a significant achievement for RAMH. We are extremely proud of the contribution that each and every member of the team makes towards providing excellent service delivery, staff support and supervision, innovative leadership and development of services. A gold award is a team effort which is really worth celebrating.”

Investors in People is an internationally recognised accreditation for improved management of people. The

Standard defines what it takes to lead, support and manage people well for sustainable business results. Only the top 19% of organisations achieve gold by demonstrating that they consistently perform at a high level of people management.

RAMH employs almost 200 staff and a further 50 volunteers to help provide comprehensive mental health services across the west of Scotland. Every year they support over 4,000 people who are experiencing mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder or self harm. RAMH services include crisis support, housing support and a range of creative, educational, social and therapeutic groups.

If you know someone RAMH could help, and for more information about their services visit www.ramh.org or contact enquiries@ramh.org or 0141 847 8900.

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

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Courtyard by Marriott Glasgow Airport Turns 1!

What a difference a year makes and here at the Courtyard we threw a little party to celebrate.

A special lunch was held for the team whereby the sampled some of the items which will be on the new hotel menu due to be launched 16th October which sees more Scottish and local influences including Ayrshire pulled pork and a Scottish seafood platter.

General Manager Ms Kuldeep Badesha told us “As the only Courtyard

by Marriott in Glasgow the team and I take pride in ensuring that we continue to exceed our guests’ expectations and stay top of our game in a highly competitive market. We have come a long was in a year and we have more achieve and we look forward continuing this journey with

our guests and partners.”

Just 12 months ago, our multi million refurbishment and rebranding programme started and with more works in progress; an additional 56 bedrooms extension due to be unveiled December 2017, we can’t wait to see what 2018 has in store for us.

What a difference a year makes…. come and see for yourself.

AMT improving lives in Renfrewshire AMT is the brain child of Annette Armstrong our Lead Therapist and Director of Armstrong Massage Therapy.

Annette and lead therapist Stuart Watt are professional massage therapist qualified in Advanced Sports and Remedial Massage, Swedish and Hot Stone Massage, Spinal Manipulation, Trigger Point Therapy, Functional Dry Needling and Kinesiology Taping.

Annette’s experience in Sports and Business allows her to understand how the daily rigours of modern life can affect the mind, body and soul as she deals with a wide spectrum of issues on a daily basis in the clinic – tiredness, anxiety, poor circulation, back/neck pain, sciatica, fibromyalgia, sports related injuries the list goes on and Annette will tailor a treatment plan to suit each individual’s needs.

AMT have recently been selected to work with the Scottish Karate National Team travel with them to competitions such as the World Championships in Tenerife in October 2017 and Russia.

AMT can work with clients who just wants to relax and de-stress to the athlete carrying an injury or looking to relieve muscles punished by strenuous training regimes and tough competitions, Armstrong Massage Therapy can help achieve goals.

To make an appointment with AMT just visit www.armstrongmassagetherapy.co.uk or visit us on Facebook -@AMTclinic or call Annette on 07885391410 All chamber members get a £5 discount on all appointments just quote your members number.

PROUD MEMBERS OF: SMTO and CNHC

Business Matters Autumn 2017

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Baker Street Paisley Launched

Paisley Community Trust recently launched their plans and vision for a new cultural and creative quarter in Paisley featuring an amazing Performing Arts / Film Theatre and Performance Academy designed by award winning Architects StallanBrand. Also announcing the brand and name: Baker Street Paisley – an internationally recognised brand and the biggest hit of one of Paisley’s most famous son’s – revered singer songwriter Gerry Rafferty.

Andy Campbell – PCT Trustee explained “In creating a brand, we were keen to incorporate a subtle nod to the towns rich performing past whilst creating something completely new and fresh.

The brand had to create a sense of destination, a place to go to for entertainment and leisure. It also had to appeal to an international audience.

In 1978, Paisley born singer-song writer Gerry Rafferty launched his greatest hit to date ‘Baker Street’. No other name provides the connection to Paisley’s rich performing arts heritage and acts as a location name for our proposed development. Baker Street Paisley.”

Paisley Community Trust believe their Community led proposal has the potential to be a catalyst for the regeneration of Paisley Town Centre, improve social cohesion and create a sense of place for all to enjoy.

Gary Kerr - Chair and Trustee says…

“I’m saddened by the fact a generation of young people have missed the opportunity to ‘go see a film down the town’ – That is my motivation – a combination of nostalgia and the ambition to do something to give our young people opportunity and breathe life back into our town.

During our public presentation on 29th and 30th September at the Piazza, the people we met were warm and enthusiastic. Almost to a man, woman and child, the public overwhelmingly backed our plans for new Performing Arts and Film Theatre.

There is a clear interest in our project and we have clearly won over the hearts and minds of Paisley people.

The public have confirmed our town centre NEEDS this project. Baker Street Paisley is a hit and we are delighted!”

We’re receiving invaluable support and guidance from Regional Screen Scotland, who work to help more PCT are confident that their vision can become more than just a new building for Paisley it will become a transformational place and a destination for the arts, culture, entertainment and education.

For additional information: Contact: Gary Kerr Email: gary@epmsolutions.co.uk Telephone: 07947 673482 Contact: Andy Campbell

Email: andy@specialmove.com Telephone: 07973 286 432 About Paisley Community Trust As Registered Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation, Paisley Community Trust is focused on creating, building and operating Paisley’s first Performing Arts and Film Theatre venue as part of Paisley’s Heritage Asset Strategy & Paisley’s UK City of Culture 2021. www.facebook.com/paisleytrust/ Twitter: @PaisleyTrust www.facebook.com/bakerstreetpaisley/ Twitter: @BakerStPaisley

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

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A guide to Christmassing from intu Braehead We all eagerly await Christmas Day. But what are we waiting for as there’s plenty of time to celebrate the joy of Christmas before the big day. In fact, some people think the build-up is the best bit. This idea inspires people to get Christmassing.

‘Christmassing’ is intu’s name for when someone behaves like it’s Christmas Day, even if it’s still November!

It’s an attitude. It’s an action. It’s a feeling.

And it embraces the joy of Christmas Day as much as possibly possible.

This festive season at intu Braehead, Soar at intu Braehead and the arena delve into the endless shopping, food and entertainment. From interactive Christmas experiences and snow gardens to free parking and extended hours, intu Braehead has you and the whole family covered this Christmas.

Step into a magical world with our brand-new Christmas experience at intu Braehead. Join us on a festive quest to meet Santa at Santa’s Cove in association with Playmobil. Fully covered, lit up and sprinkled with Christmas magic, greeted and guided by Elves and Mrs Claus, this promises to be an interactive journey for the whole family.

Get together whatever the weather and turn up the fun at Soar for your family or Christmas work outing – why not try our cinema, adventure golf, late-night dining and laser tag station to name a few!

The snowy slopes of Snow Factor are a great way to spend your festive season or enjoy one of our newer attractions with Gravity trampoline park or the Cocoabean Company’s chocolate workshop, before entering Soar’s free Winter Wonderland experience opening daily at 10am.

If it’s the ice skating you are interested

in, book a skating lesson, bust some moves at the ice disco or just glide around our rink for an afternoon. It’s sure to be the coolest day out you’ll have this Christmas.

Christmassing extends to shopping as well. Give the joy of choice with the intu Gift Card and enjoy unlimited free parking always as well as extended shopping hours throughout December. Don’t panic as we’re open to midnight with selected stores from the 18th – 23rd December to help you with those big shops or last minute buys. Christmassing has never been easier at intu Braehead.

© 2017 intu properties plc

Christmassing: acting like it’s Christmas already because you just can’t wait.

Search intu Christmas

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01/11/2017 15:58

Business Matters Autumn 2017

40

PLANS TO BREATHE NEW LIFE INTO HISTORIC PAISLEY LANDMARK Plans are being submitted to Renfrewshire Council which would safeguard the future of one of Paisley’s best loved buildings, Thomas Coats Memorial Church.

The project would see the church transformed into a world class events and entertainment venue which could be used for arts performances, concerts and weddings.

Looking to retain the striking features of this gothic inspired building, the proposal would see minimal alterations to the fabric of the building which has been under threat for many years due to rising maintenance costs.

Plans, which have support from Historic Environment Scotland, include a distinct theatre performance space and banqueting facility.

With an imposing position at the top of the town’s High Street, the church was commissioned by the family of Thomas Coats of Ferguslie in his memory and completed in 1894.

Known colloquially as the Baptist Cathedral of Europe, its spired gothic design is famous the world over.

However, this stunning building needs significant investment to be preserved for future generations.

With a dwindling congregation and a lack of essential funds required to maintain this iconic building, it is important that action is taken now.

Following year long discussions, a steering group has been working with the current trustees for the last six months to explore options to preserve this important landmark in Paisley’s history.

With the support of the trustees, a new vision has emerged to take this building forward and provide a resource which will benefit the town of Paisley for many years to come.

The man behind the project is Paisley entrepreneur, Ian Henderson, who serves as Chairman of Paisley First Business Improvement District and also sits on the Paisley 2021 Partnership Board.

“I have long been an admirer of this stunning building and like many Buddies, I am concerned that it may be lost to future generations if urgent action

isn’t taken,” said Ian. “As well as creating a world class venue for the arts and events, this proposal would also allow the continuation of University of West Scotland graduations at the church.

“Preserving this magnificent and historically important building now will bring benefits to all in the community.”

Speaking on behalf of the existing trustees, Allan Driver, said: “The existing trustees have spent a significant number of years trying to find a sustainable solution which will safeguard the future of the building, which is too important to be lost to the people of Paisley.

“Of all the options investigated, this is the proposal which we believe provides the most secure future for Thomas Coats

Memorial Church.”

The plans being submitted to Renfrewshire Council, for a change of use for the building, would also allow for the continued use of the church by community groups who are currently based there.

The current trustees of the church would hand the building over to a new trust, Coats Memorial Church Paisley Ltd, comprising of local business people who are all keen to ensure this Paisley landmark is preserved.

It’s expected the funding for the project would be a combination of private investment and grant funding. The application to Renfrewshire Council has been submitted today and is subject to a 21 day consultation period.

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PAWS Comes to Life in Paisley

The new Paisley Artisan Workshop and Sales facility has just opened its doors for business and the first local artisans have moved in and set up shop in the former church at 5, Wellmeadow Street, Paisley.

PAWS is the brainchild of Paisley First which is the local Business Improvement District in Paisley and according to its Chairman, Ian Henderson, there is a strong demand for makers’ space in the town.

“While we were testing the market ahead of acquiring the use of the building we had more than 100 expressions of interest from a wide variety of local artisans with activities ranging from specialist artists, jewellery and soft toy makers to upcycled furniture manufacturers and we have now selected the first six artisans to move in and begin production,” said Ian. The Church has been empty since the closure of Myles Camping Centre in the late 1990’s and repair works have been ongoing since July to bring it up to standard. Paisley First’s office has also relocated to the building and Paisley First staff will manage PAWS until it is fully established.

Ian continued “During the next four months we plan to ramp up towards full occupancy of the 6000 square foot site and we expect to provide accommodation for up to 40 different artisan businesses.

“Lease terms are easy in and easy out with no onerous long-term commitments or obligations from tenants and Paisley First will provide support facilities including Wi-Fi, a website and training to help artisans grow their businesses”.

Natalie McShane of Paisley First said ‘We are offering spaces from as little as £120 per month all-inclusive and tenants will be able to sell their products through the showroom and sales area close to the church entrance.

“One of the key objectives of this initiative is to increase footfall and spend in the town centre and I am sure that shoppers will be impressed with the unique hand-made items that we have available for sale.

“PAWS will add to the existing range of specialist gift shops such as Eigen, IVAD and White Cart Company to provide shoppers with options which are not available at the out of town shopping malls”.

PAWS is yet another milestone in the regeneration of Paisley town centre which has enjoyed considerable inward investment during the past three years with the opening of several new restaurants, bars, coffee shops and retail units.

Peter Clark, Centre Manager at The Paisley Centre, said “Although this new facility is at the other end of High Street from us, we welcome the artisans’ workshops because it is sure to bring more shoppers into Paisley which will benefit all of the traders within the town centre.”

Paisley First Chairman Ian Henderson

Business Matters Autumn 2017

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Renfrewshire Council Updates:

Ambitious plan to deliver ‘thriving’ Renfrewshire economy

Photo shows an artist’s impression of the proposed gateway into the Glasgow Airport Investment Area, a Glasgow City Region City Deal project to facilitate the creation of a world class business and commercial location in the heart of Renfrewshire, connected by air, sea and land.

Creating jobs and opening up opportunities for everyone in Renfrewshire is the aim of the new Council Plan, which sets out Renfrewshire’s Council’s ambition for the area over the next five years.

The strategic plan for 2017-2022 entitled Thriving People, Connected Communities details five key areas of activity the Council will progress: • Reshaping our place, our economy and our future • Building strong, safe and resilient communities • Tackling inequality, ensuring opportunities for all • Creating a sustainable Renfrewshire for all to enjoy • Working together to improve outcomes The ambitious plan was given an official stamp of approval by Councillors on 28 September with a focus on driving economic and cultural regeneration.

Maximising the benefits of major infrastructure projects delivered through the Glasgow City Region City Deal is

also a priority, with new roads, bridges, pedestrian and cycle routes making it easier for employers to do business; easier for employees to get to and from their places of work and opening up the potential for future investment.

Jobs in Renfrewshire have grown by more than 9,000 in the last three years and Renfrewshire is responsible for a significant amount of Scotland’s exports, with key employment sectors in health and care, transportation and manufacturing.

Significant progress has also been made in transforming the area using culture and heritage and Renfrewshire is emerging as a hub of cultural and creative excellence, supported by interest in the world famous Paisley Pattern and Paisley’s bid for UK City of Culture 2021.

Renfrewshire Council is the 10th largest local authority in Scotland, with 7900 staff and a £380million budget. It delivers a diverse range of services, from educating more than 27,000 children to managing more than 12,200 Council homes.

Renfrewshire Council Leader Iain Nicolson said: “This plan sets out our

ambitions as a local authority to deliver for everyone in Renfrewshire.

“Renfrewshire is a place of outstanding natural beauty, steeped in cultural heritage, with thriving business and economic activity. By listening to our communities and working together with our partners we can reshape Renfrewshire, our economy and our future.

“It is only by working together that we can give people a sense of pride in the place where they live. We want to remove the barriers to opportunities, building strong, safe and resilient communities, and make the most of what the area has to offer.

“Like many public services, we face significant financial challenges, a changing society and changing needs of local people, communities and businesses. It is vital that this plan is ambitious and flexible, enabling us to respond to the challenges and embrace the opportunities that will help us deliver the high quality services local people and businesses rely on.”

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Renfrewshire Council Updates:

Paisley sends of its UK City of Culture 2021 bid in style Paisley’s second-stage UK City of Culture 2021 bid has been submitted to the UK Government’s Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport.

Crowds gathered at the Paisley Cenotaph as local choirs and school children waved the bid off on Friday 29 September.

A large crowd joined more than 150 singers from eight local choirs to mark the bid submission at Paisley Cross with a moving rendition of Wild Mountain Thyme, led by local singing star Carol Laula.

Set against the song’s refrain of ‘will ye go lassie go’ – the performance saw the bid ceremonially handed through generations of females including Renfrewshire’s Deputy Provost Cathy McEwan, Paisley resident and former Moderator of the Church of Scotland Lorna Hood, and University of West of

Scotland Masters student and singer Sheyi Aina.

The Renfrewshire town is the only Scottish place to make the final shortlist – alongside Coventry, Stoke, Sunderland and Swansea – with the winner to be announced in December.

The bid is part of a wider drive to transform Paisley’s future using its internationally-significant heritage and cultural story.

A winning bid would boost the local economy by £175m and create 4,700 jobs over the next decade.

Chair of the Paisley 2021 partnership board Councillor Iain Nicolson said: “Paisley is a town which needs a boost – and there is nothing which could do more to deliver that than becoming UK City of Culture 2021.

“That difference will be felt beyond Renfrewshire – we are very much

Scotland’s bid, and with huge numbers of visitors expected in 2021 if we win, the benefits will be felt throughout the country.”

The send-off follows a massive £45.7million town centre investment package approved by Renfrewshire Council which will prepare the town to host the 2021 title.

That includes a £22m modernisation of Paisley’s iconic 19th-century town hall, £10m of public realm and transport improvements in Paisley town centre, a £2.5m upgrade to Paisley Arts Centre, and £3.5m to turn the disused Galbraiths warehouse in Back Sneddon Street into a new multi-purpose arts space.

School leaver job prospects boosted by employability partnership programme Improving the employment prospects for young people is one of Renfrewshire Council’s top priorities.

Council Leader Iain Nicolson recently headed to West College Scotland to hear first-hand from Renfrewshire secondary school pupils about one specially tailored project doing just that.

The ground breaking venture – part of the Council’s Joint Employability Programme – sees pupils selected from Renfrewshire’s secondary and additional support needs schools attend vocational taster sessions at the College.

More than 170 pupils have taken part so far, including Trinity High School pupil Ellie Gallagher. She said: “I have definitely benefited from coming to the college.

We have tried out different subjects like Home Economics, Special Effects MakeUp, Mechanics and other things we don’t do at school.”

Fellow Trinity pupil Daniel O’Rourke added: “It has been good to see what being on a college course is like and the experience has made me think about my

future a lot more.”

It is one of five initiatives aimed at improving the career prospects for young people which have shared in a further £75,500 investment from the Council.

Phase one of the School pupils Ellie Gallacher, Lindsay Don, Daniel O’Rourke, Devlin Morton, Thomas Coburn Joint Employability and Naomi Gardner take a break from studying with Renfrewshire Council Leader Iain Nicolson.

Project reached more unemployment falling. than 1500 pupils Councillor Nicolson said: “There have and almost 400 parents, with a range of been great strides made towards youth projects tailored for targeted groups. employment in Renfrewshire and The projects benefit from Home Link supporting the next generation into Employability Assistants to support employment will be instrumental in the pupils and their families, engaging more area’s future success. than 140 young people who would have “We will continue to target resources to otherwise left school without a positive make the greatest difference, working destination. closely with our partners in education, Working with partners, Renfrewshire in business and in the voluntary sector has taken youth employment from 27th to close the attainment gap and broaden in Scotland to being the fourth best, with young people’s horizons.” job totals now at pre-recession levels and

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Renfrewshire Council Updates:

Employability awards recognise outstanding talent The 2017 Renfrewshire Employability Awards have celebrated the successes and people making a difference to local businesses.

Employees, entrepreneurs and interns were just some of the top talent recognised at the award ceremony on Wednesday (6 September 2017) hosted by television and radio presenter Bryan Burnett at Paisley Town Hall.

Renfrewshire businesses nominated local people who have been supported through the Employability in Renfrewshire Partnership programmes.

And after a nail-biting wait, nine winners were announced from the impressive list of finalists.

The award winners are: • Most Promising New Employee: Jamie Drysdale, Power 1 Electrical Contractors Ltd • Most Promising New Entrepreneur: Euan McIntosh, Starkstrom (Scotland) Ltd • Top Intern: Debbie Campbell, I Am Me Scotland • Best Trainee: Homam Sharif, Renfrewshire Council • CV Builder (Youth): Morgan Spence, Johnstone High School • CV Builder (Adult): Laura Connor, Engage Renfrewshire • Apprentice of the Year: Andrew McClorey, Renfrewshire Council • Progression in Work: Laura Currie, Consilium Contracting Ltd • Achiever of the Year: Barbara Brown More than 1,000 local businesses have signed up to support the Invest in Renfrewshire programme which support 1400 people each year, providing direct access to vacancies, work experience, training, personal support and finance.

The programme is now based at the recently refurbished Russell Institute building on Causeyside Street, which is also home to Skills Development Scotland.

The night concluded with three Special Recognition awards for local businesses who have shown outstanding support over the last year, enthusiastically helping people prepare for work, enter work and

All nine award winners celebrate their success

progress in work.

These awards went to Papamacs Gourmet Kitchen in Johnstone; Gormac Coachworks in Renfrew and Carli’s Kindergarten in Erskine.

Councillor Jim Paterson, Depute Leader of Renfrewshire Council said: “Congratulations to all the winners and to everyone shortlisted for these awards which celebrate success and recognise the talent, enterprise and commitment of Renfrewshire’s people.

“The collective cooperation and commitment of our partners in the business community, education and employability sectors is key to our continued economic success.

“Together, we have taken Renfrewshire’s youth employment from 27th in Scotland to being fourth best. Our job totals are at pre-recession levels; regeneration is gathering pace; unemployment is falling; businesses are growing; and we are developing a reputation as a place of enterprise, creativity and drive.

“Paisley’s bid to become UK City of Culture 2021 is already changing how we are seen and how others see us. The Glasgow City Region City Deal’s £274m investment in Renfrewshire will put us right at the heart of a powerhouse

regional economy. We will seize this momentum by continuing to support business growth and create jobs. We will work tirelessly to help people find work and succeed in a modern economy.”

Sandra Black, Renfrewshire Council Chief Executive said: “I too want to congratulate all our finalists and partners who have shown what is possible and inspire our continued success.

“These awards celebrate the enterprise, talent and commitment to excellence that characterise Renfrewshire’s businesses and their employees. From the winners and everyone shortlisted we can see that these qualities are having an immense and positive effect on our people and our future.

“Renfrewshire has always had a strong, creative, hardworking and entrepreneurial culture. We also have a strong sense of community and fairness.

Through local partnership working, we have made great strides in developing our economy, tackling poverty, regenerating our towns and empowering our communities.”

Find out more about employability programmes in Renfrewshire at: www.investinrenfrewshire.com

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Renfrewshire Council Updates:

Paisley Museum plans secure major grant Plans to transform Paisley Museum into a world-class attraction have been given a boost by a £4.9million National Lottery grant.

Renfrewshire Council this year set aside £24.1million towards the proposed £42million revamp and the Heritage Lottery funding pledge allows the project to move forward.

The museum plans are taking place as part of a wider drive to transform Paisley’s future through investment in heritage and culture, which includes a bid to be UK City of Culture 2021.

They aim to reconnect the globallyrecognised Paisley Pattern with the town that gave it its name, while creating a tourist attraction of national importance that would drive footfall into the town centre. The revamped museum is predicted to attract 125,000 visits a year, which is around almost four times current numbers. It’s also forecast to create a £72million economic boost over the next three decades.

The construction phase is also expected to support 138 jobs, as well as the equivalent of 42 new permanent jobs after that through increased visitor spend. The plans would see an extension to the current building which would house a cafe and shop, improvements to all four museum buildings including the Coats Observatory, changes to physical access, and an internal redesign which will double the number of objects on public display.

The £4.9m funding will be confirmed once a successful stage two application is lodged with HLF, with the new museum is expected to open in 2022. It is planned the project will also play a part in any UK City of Culture 2021 year.

Renfrewshire Council leader Iain Nicolson said: “The museum plans are central to our wider vision to transform the town’s future by harnessing the power of Paisley’s internationally-significant heritage and cultural story.

“We know the town centre has its challenges, but the way people shop has changed forever – so we have to create new life and new footfall by finding new ways to bring people into the town.”

Calling all Renfrewshire businesses.

We can help fund your growth.

Invest in Renfrewshire is Renfrewshire Council’s programme to boost the local economy and tackle unemployment.

We have a range of funding packages available which could help your company, including: • business growth grants of up to £10,000 to help develop new products, attend exhibitions, purchase equipment or carry out property improvements; • help of up to £5,000 to help you take on a graduate intern; • support towards the wage costs of taking on a young unemployed person; and • loans to help with working capital or the purchase of equipment.

Want to know more? visit www.investinrenfrewshire.com email invest@renfrewshire.gov.uk or call

0300 300 1180

Business Matters Autumn 2017

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Renfrewshire Council Updates: Paisley firm Mac Asphalt is rolling into action to show its support for the town’s UK City of Culture 2021 bid

The team from Mac Asphalt

The family business run by father and son team Thomas and Jamie Crumlish is following in the footsteps of firms including Glasgow International Airport and intu Braehead, as well Coats Group PLC, the world’s largest industrial thread manufacturer, which started life in the town.

Along with fellow supporters Paisley First, Thermo Fisher Scientific, the Gordon Leslie Group, Chivas Brothers, the Scottish Leather Group, Morrison Construction, Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce and Diageo, they have all pledged funding if the bid is successful.

Paisley lodged its final second stage bid with the UK Government’s Department for Culture, Media and Sport on September 29. The town is bidding for the title as part of wider plans to use its unique cultural and heritage story to transform its future.

Managing Director Jamie says that the firm’s own strong Paisley roots means they want to give something back.

Mac Asphalt has been operating out of its Wallneuk Street for more than two decades and has 78 employees, with a turnover of £12m.

The highway maintenance and civil engineering firm’s fleet includes rollers, pavers, mechanical road sweepers, and tippers.

Jamie, 38, said: “We’re a Renfrewshire company who employ Renfrewshire people and it’s important for the town to do well.

“We do a lot of work in Paisley and it supplies quite a bit of our revenue. We are a Paisley family and I grew up and still live here.

“I think it’s important for us to give something back and we wanted to be part of the bid.

“I think the UK City of Culture bid is excellent and it’s long overdue. You can see the effort that’s gone into all the events to showcase what Paisley has in terms of architecture and culture.”

Jamie believes that winning the title could help transform the fortunes of the area and said: “The last big thing I can remember is the celebrations to mark Paisley’s 500th anniversary in 1988.

“I was a kid at school you got a special pencil set to mark it.

“That’s the nearest thing to the UK City

of Culture bid I’ve seen in 30 odd years.

I think the kids who are at school now will be excited about what’s going on and what’s to come.

“I think it’s important for the local economy because we are an area with a lot of deprivation.

“We’ve got all this infrastructure around us in terms of the airport and really impressive buildings. It’s a great wee town but I think maybe we’ve just not asked for help before.”

The firm has already previously shown its commitment to giving something back when it bought no less than six of the Paisley First lions at a fundraising event.

Paisley 2021 Bid Director Jean Cameron said: “We’ve had incredible backing from the community and from local businesses and we’re thrilled to add Mac Asphalt to the list.

“A winning bid would bring vast economic and cultural benefits not just throughout Paisley and Renfrewshire, but nationwide.”

You can see the Paisley 2021 business wall and find out more about the bid at paisley2021.co.uk.

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

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Business Matters Autumn 2017

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SCHOOL UPDATES: Johnstone school wins national digital award Cochrane Castle Primary School has achieved national ‘Digital School’ status for excellence in digital technology in teaching and learning.

The Johnstone school was one of 22 primary schools from cities and towns across Scotland who were recognised for their use of digital technology in the classroom at the Digital Schools Award ceremony.

More than 40 Scottish primary schools are now recognised as ‘Digital Schools’ for their dedication and innovation in areas of leadership and vision, digital technology for learning and teaching, school culture, professional development and resources and infrastructure.

The award – recognised by Education Scotland and supported by HP, Microsoft and Intel – puts a spotlight on good digital practice in schools and encourages more to make the best use of digital technology in the classroom.

Headteacher of Cochrane Castle,

Pam McDowell, said: “Everyone at the school is proud of this achievement. I’m passionate about providing our pupils with the best learning experience and I firmly believe digital technology can support learning in the classroom.

“Education is always evolving and teaching lessons using digital technology is just the next logical step. With more and more people using digital technology in everyday life, their job and for leisure, it is even more important that children and young people have digital skills.”

Shirley-Anne Somerville, Minister for Further Education, Higher Education and Science, said: “This programme positively impacts upon pupils’ motivation to learn as well as recognising achievement by teachers and schools in advancing the integration of technology in the classroom. I commend all the primary schools receiving their digital schools award on their great achievement.”

Kilbarchan Primary Alumni established

Linwood High School

Kilbarchan Primary held a very successful World of Work Week in May this year and has decided to create a Kilbarchan Primary Alumni. The purpose is to celebrate the success of former pupils and to share the wealth of opportunities available to our young people upon leaving school.

We want this to feed into the positive destinations programme and to encourage an aspirational mindset within our children. This plan would involve former pupils, possibly now parents or carers, sharing with the school some of the jobs they have had since leaving education, perhaps supported by a picture/drawing/photograph. We are trying to reach as many former pupils as possible in order to get a breadth of employment possibilities - can you help?

Please contact Fiona MacKenzie Head Teacher Fiona MacKenzie fiona. mackenzie@renfrewshire.gov.uk 01505 702 524

Step Up with Enterprise Entrepreneur Me UK What a great day. Thank you to all involved in the S1 Enterprise Event on Thursday 28th September 2017.

Pupils and providers, Parents and Teachers who all contributed to make it a brilliant day. I think we have some future leaders of business here.

Barlinnie Prison Officer visits Modern Studies at Linwood High Thank you so much to David Beatson from HMPS Barlinnie for coming to speak to S4 Modern Studies on 20th September 2017 and RMPS. It was very interesting to hear about the daily life of prisoners and everything that Barlinnie does to help people in those circumstances.

Film Club Camera and Sound Workshop at Linwood HIgh School Thank you to Paul from the SAE Institute for hosting a workshop for the Film Club today. Promoting skills for the Creative Industries and working with our future Christopher Nolans!

Councillor Jim Paterson, Renfrewshire Council’s Convener for Education and Children’s Services, said: “I’d like to congratulate the teachers and support staff at Cochrane Castle. Digital technology offers a modern learning experience for children and young people and it is great to see another Renfrewshire school being recognised for its digital excellence.”

To find out more about ‘Digital Schools’, visit www.digitalschoolsawards. co.uk.

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Head start for Renfrewshire’s schools and early learning centres Renfrewshire’s ambition for all children and young people to reach their full potential has been boosted with an arrival of 11 new Heads.

Renfrewshire Council has appointed ten Headteachers in secondary and primary schools across Renfrewshire and one Head of Early Learning and Childcare Centre in Paisley.

The Heads bring with them a new burst of energy and commitment that supports the work of their colleagues across Renfrewshire to raise literacy and numeracy levels and close the poverty related attainment gap.

Councillor Jim Paterson, who is the Council’s Convener for Education and Children’s Services, welcomed the new Heads as they got together for the first joint meeting since the start of term. He said: “Giving our teachers and early learning and childcare professionals a strong foundation of support is vital as we work towards achieving our ambitions for Renfrewshire’s children

and young people.

“I am pleased to welcome 11 new Heads into Renfrewshire: three Headteachers in secondary schools; seven Headteachers in primary schools; and, one Head of an early learning and childcare centre.

“Having met them all together today, I can tell you that they are enthusiastic for the job ahead and ready to work with their colleagues on ensuring children and young people have the best start in life and are able to reach their full potential, regardless of their background.

“They will invigorate our schools and early learning and childcare centre as we continue developing our staff through high quality programmes of professional

learning and build upon a number of additional resources to support literacy, numeracy and health and wellbeing.

“Supporting all our teachers, early years practitioners and support staff in our establishments to be their best will help Renfrewshire achieve its ambitions.

Renfrewshire is one of nine local authorities in the Scottish Government’s Attainment Challenge, and this funding will help us direct even more support to pupils living in the most deprived areas.”

New St. Fergus’ Primary School officially opens Pupils, teachers and support staff were excited to have two special visitors at the official opening of their new school.

Renfrewshire’s Provost, Lorraine Cameron, cut the ribbon to open the school, before joining the Bishop of Paisley diocese, John Keenan on a guided tour of the new £4 million St Fergus’ Primary School.

The new building – funded by Renfrewshire Council and the Scottish Government - is a modern single storey construction that can accommodate 175 pupils and is just across the road from the old building. It features independent and outdoor learning areas, an allweather sports pitch and a playground performance space – maximising space for pupils’ learning experience.

The Paisley school is part of Renfrewshire’s Council’s £52 million schools investment programme, designed to improve primary schools, early learning and childcare centres and additional support needs education and promote learning and achievement by

giving children the best possible learning environment.

Guest of honour, Provost Cameron said “I was delighted to officially open the school. St. Fergus’ Primary is a wonderful example of new possibilities in the world of education. There is a great atmosphere here, both from pupils and the staff.”

Renfrewshire Council’s Convener of Education and Children’s Services, Councillor Jim Paterson, said: “We already know how much the children are enjoying their new surroundings and it has been great to see the difference this new building has made to the staff and pupils.

“Every child should have the opportunity to reach their full potential and St Fergus’ Primary School is the perfect environment for pupils to learn and to keep them engaged.”

Headteacher Ms Mhairi McDonald added: “We are so pleased that our new school is now officially open. The children were involved in the design of this amazing state-of-the-art facility and

Exterior of the new St. Fergus Primary School, Paisley

Headteacher Mhairi McDonald and Provost Lorraine Cameron

we all love coming in to the bright, airy, colourful environment here at St Fergus’.

Our thanks go to Provost Cameron and Bishop Keenan for coming here today for our official opening.”

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SCHOOL UPDATES: YOUNG ENTERPRISE 2017 Young Enterprise this year has the school at heart and has decided to split into sub-teams to create different products.

The first team Jigsaw has decided to create house scarves and wristbands which will be on sale later this school year.

The second team Harmony has decided to create jumpers in the colours of the houses with the Gleniffer badge on it.

Team Jigsaw recently attended the Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce Business Lunch, which we were encouraged to network with professional businesses in Renfrewshire.

The lunch was really enjoyable and was a great insight to the world of business and we observed the success of new businesses, which we hope Jigsaw and Harmony could achieve.

The spokesperson at this lunch was Corinne Hutton the founder of the charity Finding Your Feet who was an inspiration to listen to and has took part in Gleniffer’s YPI events previously who knew some members of our team because of YPI in S3.

Recently Jigsaw held a very successful noodle sale in the social area at lunch on Friday 29th September 2017. This event raised £43 that will go towards the scarves and any other enterprise idea. Both

Morgan Stanley High School Industry Insight Week

Traditional Building Skills visit to Paisley Abbey

Congratulations to our Head Girl Ciara Phillips, who beat off stiff competition from schools across Renfrewshire, East Renfrewshire and Glasgow to gain a place at the Morgan Stanley High School Insight Week in Investment Operations & Accounting. Ciara will have the opportunity to take part in a variety of sessions including work shadowing, business overviews, networking sessions and the chance to learn more about what is involved in the recruitment process.

Kirsty Learmonth from Morgan Stanley has a child in Gleniffer and has been a long-time devotee to developing the young workforce at Gleniffer, supporting many of our Employability events.

Thanks goes to her for highlighting this opportunity and the work she does to help us develop our young people. We wish Ciara all the best for her week with Morgan Stanley, which takes place during the October break.

On the 4th of September, 25 of our S2 pupils -accompanied by Mr. Clannachan and Mr. Jagger from our Art & Technical Facultyattended an afternoon workshop in Traditional Building Skills as part of the 5 year Paisley Town Centre Townscape Heritage Initiative.

An outdoor event undercover at Abbey Close, Paisley, the group of 25 students were divided into smaller groups of 5 students to undertake short workshops

Harmony and Jigsaw have lots of great fundraising ideas up and coming in the school calendar.

Written by Aaron Halbert and Shannon Harvey, S5

include stone letter-cutting, plumbing & leadwork, carpentry and natural roofing. The building skills workshops, delivered by experts from West College Scotland and Historic Environment Scotland, also included a tour of Paisley’s Historic Abbey. Attending amongst other schools in Renfrewshire, our pupils impressed and have now been invited to attend a reception at the Scottish Parliament in November. Well done to all pupils, Mr. Clannachan and Mr. Jagger!

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

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DYW West Update Traditional Building Skills Event Can you support the

GREENPOWER F24 RACE TEAM?

On the 5th and 6th of September, secondary school pupils from across Renfrewshire were given the opportunity to gain practical experience across five building skills including stone masonry, roofing and carpentry. Organised in partnership by the Scottish Traditional Building Forum, West College Scotland, Renfrewshire Council and DYW West, the pupils were also given the opportunity to tour Paisley Abbey and learn more about the construction of the historic building. We would like to thank all of our partners and the organisations who supported on the day who made the event a great success!

We are a group of pupils from Renfrewshire schools taking part in the Greenpower Programme where we build and race a Formula 24 Car and compete for Renfrewshire in the Scottish heats.

We are offering companies the chance to sponsor our team; we need help with materials to build the car, race suits and helmets.

In return we will advertise your company on the car and seek to get some good press coverage. We are all looking for apprenticeships at the end of the course, so we would like the opportunity to get more work experience within the industry. There is strong competition from teams across the West Region so any help be it financial or donations of materials would be amazing. Thank you!

Team: Gold Slam F24 If you can help please contact Paula / paula.leca@dywwest. co.uk: 07710 715535

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