Business Matters Summer 2015

Business

Matters SUMMER 2015 EDITION

HELPING RENFREWSHIRE GROW & PROSPER

CITY DEAL TAKES OFF

INSIDE: B2B 2015, business support and regular updates from: Council, Invest, schools, members news & more

Business Matters Summer 2015

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President’s Welcome

Welcome to the Summer 2015 edition of Business Matters. I hope by the time you read this Summer will have arrived! Following on from my article in our previous edition I would like to give you an update on our current improvement projects.

As you know the Chamber web site is a valuable tool for members and we are keen to continue to make improvements to the design and functionality. Work on the new web site has started and we hope to go live in August-September this year.

We have refreshed our facilities at the Chamber and used this opportunity to provide a valuable ‘live project’ for local students from the College. The apprentices have done a great job and a local company SSUK have installed new LED screens.

Our Customer Relationship Management system is vital to us carrying out our role as Chamber as effectively as possible and we are currently doing some research on what systems are being used by other Chambers to assist us in making a final

decision about the system we adopt.

The Chamber continues to play a key role in a numbers of initiatives: • West region Invest in Youth Group – at time of writing the Chamber, a range of private sector employers and the College are working together on a bid to secure funding for a West Region Invest in Youth Group to transform the relationship between employers, schools and colleges across Renfrewshire and beyond as part of the Scottish Government’s key policy for Developing Scotland’s Young Workforce • The Chamber continues to be involved in the strategic level work taking place around Paisley City of Culture bid involving OECD • We are also working with our colleagues at the council to ensure opportunities from the £1.13 Bn City Deal initiative are understood by the local business community and that any opportunities are maximised • The Tackling Poverty Commission established by the Council has

published its findings and is now looking at ways of taking action to reduce the levels of poverty in Renfrewshire, including the level of poverty being experienced by people in work. As members will be aware the ‘living wage’ is a focus for the current Government.

Your Chamber earned another “first” recently – we are the 1st Chamber in the UK to become Living Wage Accredited. Combined with our BCC accreditation score of 100%, Investors in People Silver and Investors in Young People Accreditation – I hope you agree that your Chamber continually strives to innovate & progress – and is genuinely a well-run and successful business support organisation. Our draft figures for our year end are in and, whilst not a fully audited figure yet, we expect the Chamber to post another small surplus for the 6th consecutive year.

Thanks to everyone that supported our annual B2B event “Business Matters in Renfrewshire” – we smashed our target of 60 exhibitors with 70 this year (up from 50 last year) – check out this edition’s centre spread for more information.

Following the recent General Election, your chamber is meeting with our 2 new MPs – Gavin Newlands & Mhairi Black in August. I would to take this opportunity to thank their predecessors Douglas Alexander and Jim Sheridan with whom the Chamber had a strong relationship, for their consistent and very much valued support over many years.

As is the norm we do not have any events in July but the Chamber will be very busy launching ROCCO 2015, so please look out for our marketing messages across all our channels. I encourage all businesses to enter – as the main business awards across Renfrewshire – winning a ROCCO is no easy task; the shortlisting and finals judging is taken very seriously.

All that is left for me to say is I hope you enjoy the summer and that you get the chance of a break with family and friends. I hope to see many of you at a Chamber event soon.

Audrey Cumberford, President Renfrewshire Chamber

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

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A Warm Welcome from our Chief Executive Hard to believe the nights are getting darker already! It has been an extremely busy Spring at the Chamber.

Some highlights: Chamber is now Lead Partner on the Jobs & Economy Thematic Group in the Community Planning Partnership. We also continue to contribute to the discussions the council is having with the OECD around City of Culture BID for Paisley.

Keeping on the theme of BID – this time the Paisley Business Improvement District – your Chamber and Paisley First are forging a healthy relationship working together for the benefit of Paisley. The City Deal is now starting to get real traction.

Your Chamber is involved and will be helping communicate to our members what it is all about and the opportunities.

I enjoyed being a judge for the new retail incubator in Paisley High St – “InCube” – and look forward to welcoming all InCubatees as members.

We put a lot of hard work and effort into B2B 2015 – we were delighted with the number of exhibitors on day 1 (70), but attendees were down due to issues with parking. Thank you to everyone that supported the event over the 2 days. The Board have asked me to conduct a review

of format and venues as we continually strive to improve & innovate.

Thanks to all the organisations that submitted proposals for our new website.

Work is now underway and we look forward to unveiling the new site at the end August.

ROCCO will launch mid-July. Entry will be free and open to all members regardless of location. If you are a nonmember you can also enter but you must be based in Renfrewshire. There will categories applicable to all sectors and sizes of business. (www.roccoawards.com) I have been spending time with colleagues developing the region’s bid for an Invest in Youth Group – the steering group nominated myself as the lead business person to present our proposals and application for funding to the national Board at STV on the 12th June. The meeting went well and I was ably supported by a senior level team of colleagues.

I recently attended the Premier of the “I Am Me” film. I was blown away – the film was extremely powerful – check it out on YouTube (search for I Am Me Scotland).

Congratulations to our young apprentice, Stuart - who not only recently turned 18 but also passed his driving test!

We have had a number of surveys out recently – Scottish Business Pledge and Quarterly Economic Survey – please if you can complete these when requested – it helps us ensure the views of Renfrewshire organisations are taken into consideration at a national level.

I am delighted to report that I was recently voted in as Chair of the regional Young Enterprise Company Programme and look forward to working with the secondary schools in our region. We’re always on the lookout for new business advisors (BA’s) – so if you want to give something back and share your business experience with a group of S5/S6 pupils around 1hr a fortnight from Sep-March please get in touch.

A reminder that due to holidays we do not have any events in July.

Bob Davidson, 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 Autumn 2015 Deadline for editorial and adverts is 28th September, issued mid-October 2015 Themes: Rocco shortlist, export; logistics & transport; manufacturing

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Business Matters Summer 2015

Advertising & Editorial: Euan Keltie 0141 847 5464 / e: ekeltie@renfrewshirechamber.com

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Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce would like to acknowledge the support of our Premier Partners: “ I’d like to update my professional qualifications ” West College Scotland offers a range of professional training and development courses to help you update your skills.

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Business Matters Summer 2015

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Learning Tools from the Top Business Schools to Develop Scotland’s Young Workforce RSVP Design, based in Paisley, has been designing training materials for organisations like Apple, TNT and Walt Disney since 2003, and through its partnership with the Center for Creative Leadership in the US, it has signed an agreement to be the first UK organisation to distribute their experiential learning tools.

This is great news for local schools, colleges, Universities and businesses, as Managing Director, Graham Cook explains: “RSVP Design specialises in what’s called ‘experiential learning’ - this is where people learn by participating in an activity, game or simulation rather than sitting in a classroom or training room listening to an ‘expert’ present information. Recent brain research supports the practice that this is a more effective way to learn and top Executive Business Schools like

Harvard, IMD and CCL have been using tools designed by us for many years.

The recent FT 2015 rankings put these three organisations in the top10 Business Schools in the world.

Our work with these Universities, and with a wide range of public and private sector organisations across the world gives us a great insight into what skills our young people should be developing if they want to succeed. It’s not just about academic skills, it’s about the so-called ‘soft’ skills and employability skills that employers value so highly.”

RSVP Design has been working in a number of high schools to help teachers access tools, resources and materials that can help Scotland’s young workforce develop their employability skills. The strength of their expertise now means that teachers as well as trainers, coaches and leaders can now

Graham Cook, MD, RSVP Design

access the best experiential learning resources in the world to make learning more fun, engaging and effective whatever your age!

Improve your business performance by making your training & team development activities more interactive and effective RSVP Design has developed a range of easy to use activities that are fun and effective in building skills and changing behaviours

Shop online on our secure store at shop.rsvpdesign.co.uk or call us on 0141 561 0387 and we’ll help recommend something for you!

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

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CAN YOUR PENSION...

• INVEST IN COMMERCIAL PROPERTY? PETER WYLIE & COMPANY Consulting Actuaries

26 New Street, New Street Paisley, PA1 1YB. truSteeS ltd Tel: 0141-889 2467

• LEND TO YOUR TRADING COMPANY? • PROVIDING A LOAN BACK FOR PLANT & MACHINERY PURCHASE? Fax: 0141-848 0559

- AN OCCUPATIONAL PENSION CAN GIVE YOU CONTROL When it comes to pensions we all know this subject is important but whilst many people are leaving their pension in the hands of larger faceless organisations, business owners and entrepreneurs have the opportunity to make their money work for them and their business.

New Street Trustees’ Peter Wylie sheds light on a lesser-known pension arrangement, The Director’s Occupational Pension Scheme: “There’s a very straight forward alternative for business owners who wish to remain in full control of their pension investments. A Director’s Occupational Pension has multiple benefits to a business owner.”

Many business owners had previously been directed towards a SIPP, however the HMRC restrictions can often mean a Director’s Occupational Pension is better suited to give you more flexibility in

what to invest in – to the benefit of your business and your pension pot.

New Street Trustees’ clients have been able to take control of their hard-earned pension funds. Some clients have been able to buy their own commercial premises and lease it back to the business. Some have used their pension pot to make investments in plant and machinery repaying the pension fund rather than the bank, whilst others are able to self-finance expansion clearing overdrafts or loans along the way. Many local businesses have already benefited from Peter’s reputable 30+ years in this market.

Peter Wylie adds, “Our clients find that our type of scheme provides much more satisfactory results for their particular circumstances than the “one size fits all” approach taken by most providers.”

Since a Director’s Occupational Pension can sit in tandem with other personal

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Business Matters Summer 2015

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Is Looking Good Tax Deductible?

INSPIRING BUSINESS PEOPLE

the warmth and decency in the clothing To be successful in business it Campbell the most incidental to the protection necessarily is essential that we look theDallas part is oneisof dynamic and progressive firms ofthe clothing provided by and dress appropriately. This has independent Chartered In Accountants in you wear must be general, the clothes led many to believe that business Scotland. clients come in allrequired shapesby your employer and specifically dress and grooming shouldOur be an and expense sizes andforso do our disciplines.

Wefor everyday wear. must not be suitable allowable deductible tax purposes. There tests and shape them to fit tailorare ourtwo services Employees which determineyour what needs. expenses are Ultimately we are focussed employees, allowability test is allowable – one for the self employed on your peace of mindFor and helpingthe you stricter, the expenditure must be wholly, and one for employees. succeed. exclusively and necessarily for business purposes.

Self employed HMRC will consider an expense For the self employed, the allowabilityAileen Gates Contact deductible test is if the clothing is wholly and Phone 0141 886 6644 if each and every holder of employment would have to incur the exclusively for business Emailpurposes. HMRC aileen.gates@campbelldallas.co.uk expense. restrict deductibility on clothing which they deem to have a duality of purpose, Hair and Make up arguing that in most cases clothes are not There are some circumstances where wholly for businesswww.campbelldallas.co.uk purposes. expenses for grooming would also be What is deductible from taxable profits allowable. This is the case where hair and is the cost of protective clothing worn in make up are specifically paid for wholly the course of carrying on a trade because

INSPIRING BUSINESS PEOPLE Campbell Dallas is one of the most dynamic and progressive firms of independent Chartered Accountants in Scotland. Our clients come in all shapes and sizes and so do our disciplines. We tailor our services and shape them to fit your needs. Ultimately we are focussed on your peace of mind and helping you succeed.

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Aileen Gates, Partner

for business purposes. Here, stage make up and hair would be allowable for actors; however make up for an office worker would not.

If you have any queries about the information in this article or any general tax questions, please contact Aileen Gates at Aileen.Gates@campbelldallas.co.uk

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

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Trump Developments Ltd Charity Golf Day for Yorkhill Children’s Charity - 31st July 2015 We are delighted to invite you to the first Trump Developments Ltd Charity Golf Day at the picturesque Glasgow Golf Club’s Killermont Course.

Glasgow Golf Club is the 9th oldest club in the world and, along with Glasgow Golf Club’s Gailes Links, jointly hosts the oldest open amateur strokeplay event in the world. The Killermont course follows the original line of play to the greensides first laid out by the legendary Old Tom Morris.

Trump Developments Ltd are hoping to raise funds for Yorkhill Children’s Charity.

Yorkhill Children’s Charity sits firmly at the heart of Yorkhill hospital working tirelessly doing all that they can to make

difficult times easier for the children and their families, helping to give them the best chance of making a full recovery.

Date: Friday 31st July 2015 Venue: Glasgow Golf Club, Killermont Course: www.glasgowgolfclub.com Arrival: 0800-0830 (Tea/Coffee and Morning Rolls) Tee Off: 0930 Shotgun Start – 18 holes (Best 2 of 4 Nett scores on each hole) Cost: £500 (Team of 4) THE WINNING FOURBALL WILL ACCOMPANY TRUMP DEVELOPMENTS LTD EMPLOYEE TO PLAY LOCH LOMOND GOLF CLUB

The cost includes; tea/coffee and morning rolls on arrival 18 holes of golf including a ‘Beat the Pro’ followed by a 2 course buffet lunch.

Lunch will be followed by presentation of prizes for the winners and an auction.

We hope you would like to join us and help raise money for this worthy cause.

Cheques should be made payable to Trump Developments Ltd. On receipt of your entry we will send confirmation, dress code and directions.

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact: jonathon@ trumpdevelopments.co.uk Tel: (0141) 8915111

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basis to resolve any issues they may be having, saving companies time and money and helping them to grow.

We work closely with our clients to understand their specific needs and the needs of their business. We are not only at the end of a phone, we will sit down with our clients face-to-face and find innovative solutions to any problems they may be experiencing.

Online and offline, during the course ofBusiness any working day, Summer 2015 Matters no two situations are the same and employers need to know where they stand and who they can trust.

Our People SHIELDING are our Greatest Asset But don’t just take our word for it, our clients have given us some glowing reviews which we are delighted to share S C O T L A N D with you.

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“As a small national charity, we can’t afford to directly employ our own HR staff. The service we’ve received from HR Services Scotland is the next best thing – they’re here when we need them and keep us advised of any changes to legislation or best practice.”

Pandora Summerfield, CEO Down’s Syndrome Scotland

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“A vital issue for employers is that we know our rights and obligations. HR Services Scotland is able to provide our We have the knowledge and expertise to support your business, Company with the answers and the know-how when we need it - 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.”

George you Paterson,to Managing Clyde Solutions allowing doDirector, what you do best; grow your business

Experts in Human Resources, Employment L Health & Safety and Leadership & Management T for your business

Our services provide all employers, big or small, with professional and cost effective Human Resource support. We bring knowledge, expertise and experience to each of our clients. We will protect your interests, listen before we act and give you the confidence that you and your company are legally compliant.

We offer a full-service consultancy for a range of clients in private sector, public sector and the third sector, providing a complete framework to support and protect businesses.

Pivotal to the success of any business is ensuring HR Services is handled by qualified professionals.

Our dedication to working in partnership with our clients and our expertise in delivering solutions for employers has positioned us as a leading provider of HR Services, Employment Law, Health and Safety Training and Leadership & Management Training.

At the core of our business is trust.

We strive to exceed your expectations by giving professional advice and support which will enable you to develop and grow your business.

In an increasingly digital age, our team of experts are at the top of their game, utilising new technologies and software packages to help support businesses. As employers, you need to know where to

People are the centre of our business.

We strive to deliver excellence, adding real value to our clients. We get to know our clients, their employees and their businesses, allowing us to help them grow and develop whilst utilising our expertise.

turn and who to trust.

Our expertise, with an open and honest approach, together with our unrivalled market knowledge and understanding of up-to-date legislation will be at your disposal on a daily basis.

We work closely with our clients to understand their special needs and the needs of their business.

In short, we are good at what we do and we want you to experience the best.

Managing Director, Andy Purdon

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

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SHIELDING YOUR BUSINESS HR SERVICES S

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Our ability to deliver results is the basis of our growing reputation and we are proud of this. To benefit from our services or to find out more about our experience and what we have to offer visit www.hrservicesscotland.co.uk or contact us at HR Services Scotland, Third Floor, Brandon House, Brandon Street, ML3 6DA

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Business Matters Summer 2015

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Become a Life Saver You can be a life saver as an employer but it’s not exclusive to employers individual employees can contribute: doesn’t that sound positive! You do not need to be a super hero to achieve this. Take a few moments to consider your actions and ask yourself if you are putting anyone at risk, including yourself. Those few moments could prevent ill health or injury and might save a life.

Managing for health and safety may sound difficult, particularly if you are a small business, but you will already be managing your staff, budget and promoting your business so why not integrate health and safety with your other business objectives. Our aim is to enable employers, of all sizes, manage health and safety in a practical and sustainable manner that is proportionate to the risk.

Whilst our business is relatively young as managing director I have over 25 years’ experience providing advice within the public, private and third sector. Earlier this year, we were successful in a public service contract bid to review the health and safety arrangements of a large organisation which covers all of Scotland.

There is a growing focus on Corporate Social Responsibility and being able to demonstrate that your business is embracing health and safety and environmental issues contributes towards business opportunities.

As a business we can offer you advice, assist you monitor your arrangements or support you in training, including accredited training courses.

In addition our NEBOSH accredited courses are open to individuals who wish to enhance their knowledge and gain a recognised qualification.

Fred Cullum

Enable Safety Ltd would welcome the opportunity to support you improve your business compliance and performance.

Remember health and safety is not the responsibility of a single individual but all individuals so why not embrace the opportunity to minimise injuries

and ill health in your workplace and become a life saver.

Fred Cullum Director

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

Advice

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Inspection

Training

• Do you know your responsibilities for health and safety?

• When was the last time you reviewed your arrangements for health and safety?

• When was the last time you or your staff received any health and safety training?

If you are uncertain about your answer to any of the questions above there could be something missing in your business. Let us help you manage for health and safety.

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Business Matters Summer 2015

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Don’t fall foul of corporate crime

Val Surgenor, Partner, MacRoberts

Secretary for Business, Sajid Javid’s, recently announced that he intends to cut red tape for companies during the current parliament is hopeful news for SME’s. However, regulation will remain an area that poses difficulties and risks for many businesses.

Regardless of your business size you are required to comply with all company regulations from the Health & Safety Executive, Police Scotland, SEPA, and FSA to name but a few.

The company, directors, owners, managers, employees and even external advisors can be accused and investigated of failure to comply with regulations. This includes corporate homicide which carries a prison sentence.

There is a real risk of significant costs and criminal prosecution as well as damage to brand, reputation and sales.

The importance of taking preventative measures to ensure compliance to stop you or your business falling foul of the relevant regulations is vital.

Take health and safety for example.

In the United Kingdom the primary legislation governing the enforcement of health and safety, the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, states that it is your responsibility to: • secure the health, safety and welfare of persons at work • protect others against risks to health and safety in connection with the activities of persons at work • for controlling and managing the use

of dangerous substances • for controlling certain emissions into the atmosphere Ensuring you have the correct policies, procedures and training in place is vital. A Health & Safety Audit can prove essential in ensuring you are fully compliant with HSE regulations.

If you find yourself in the unfortunate situation where a breach does occur you should take legal advice immediately to minimise the risks of non-compliance and to ensure you are represented from the outset of the enquiry.

To find out more about compliance and regulation contact MacRoberts.

Our team has expert knowledge in commercial compliance and regulatory work, including health and safety, dataprotection, anti-bribery, environmental breaches, fatal accident inquiries, corporate homicide and financial irregularities.

John McGovern, Partner, MacRoberts

We are able to provide training and audits to ensure you are compliant but are also on hand to provide advice and support if non-compliance occurs.

For further information contact: Valerie Surgenor, Compliance Partner T: 0141 303 1241 John McGovern, Regulatory Partner T: 0141 303 1274

A Health & Safety Audit can prove essential in ensuring you are fully compliant with HSE regulations.

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

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HOW OFFICE 365 COULD BENEFIT YOUR BUSINESS… Microsoft Office 365 is (in essence) a cloud-based version of traditional Microsoft Office software that is particularly suited to the small to medium size businesses. It comes with a wide range of functions and tools that can increase overall productivity and profitability.

It may be worth clarifying before we go on what the cloud actually is. The term "cloud computing" in the simplest terms means storing and accessing data and programs over the Internet instead of your computer's hard drive. That’s it.

Although the benefits of the cloud solution may appear obvious to most, there are still some SMEs who are reluctant to make the move and find the whole prospect quite intimidating. You could opt to ‘dip your toe in the water’ to begin with, by moving your email to the cloud, removing the clunky and expensive Microsoft Exchange server from your office.

However let us assure you that moving to Microsoft Office 365 and to the cloud is is not as complex or as scary as it seems, and as Microsoft Partners, pcr will ensure you reap all of the benefits and experience

a very smooth process that won’t affect your day to day business.

There are many different benefits of moving to a cloud based solution, so many in fact that we created this handy infographic so you can see them at a glance.

Cloud computing means you are no longer dependent on ‘being in the office’ in order to access your work. We live in a 24/7 world now where access to documents as and when we need them has become essential to business. And not only does this enhanced mobility increase productivity, it can also reduce investment in IT infrastructure in the future.

For growing SMEs, moving to the Cloud can also give the ability to scale the number of licenses needed based on the number of employees, effectively Office 365 grows alongside the company.

This “pay as you use” subscription-based model can be a fundamental advantage for SMEs in particular and can save substantial sums of money in the long term. This model also allows for access to the latest MS Office tools without the expensive cost of constantly upgrading for example; SharePoint for collaboration,

Exchange for email, Skype for Business communication and OneDrive for individual cloud storage. Better yet, all updates will happen automatically at server level so there is no need to migrate to a new version in the future.

The licence also gives each user the rights to install the Office applications on up to 5 devices so they can access their work from mobile and tablet devices at anytime.

We understand that a major concern for smaller businesses is the associated downtime with any IT infrastructure change. Fortunately pcr can ensure that downtime is minimal to zero, allowing no impact on work or service delivery.

As one of the first and still few Microsoft Partners to be classed as Cloud Solutions Partners, pcr can can fully manage Office 365 – including billing and customer service – on your behalf.

Allowing us to seamlessly merge the cloud experience into your technology department and take the stress of an IT upgrade off your shoulders. Get in touch with us today to look at how we could improve your business.

Business Matters Summer 2015

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Innovative ideas enhance Paisley’s reputation to do business Paisley First, the business-led Business Improvement District (BID) company aiming to put the spotlight back onto Paisley town centre, continues to make a solid impact by delivering on its pledges set out in the BID Business Plan 2015 - 2020.

Action was clearly needed to help the town centre hold its own as a vibrant, appealing place to visit. With a mission “to restore Paisley’s reputation as a business location and rebuild the town centre as a visitor destination”, Paisley First has aimed high in its ambition and has delivered on some key projects that will enhance Paisley’s reputation to do business.

Cutting the cost of doing business Paisley First has, through its partnership with Business Advisory Support, already delivered significant cost savings for town centre businesses in their operational costs. The savings amount to as little as £500 per annum to over £3,500 in the cost of electricity, gas, water, etc. In total, the scheme has saved town centre businesses in excess of £12,000 per annum.

Building Customer Loyalty – Points Make Prizes!

Paisley First is seeking to help businesses build a customer loyalty ethos and June will see the introduction of the digital customer loyalty scheme by a company called “Swipii”. Businesses in the town centre will be encouraged to trial this innovative scheme with 20,000 dual branded cards produced. Pick up a card and start to build points for some exciting rewards.

Selling Paisley and Renfrewshire – VisitScotland EXPO 2015 For the first time, Paisley and Renfrewshire as a destination were marketed at the annual VisitScotland EXPO through a partnership between Paisley First and Renfrewshire Council. Tour operators from around the globe were given a dual branded USB data stick and took a real interest in the area through the personal introductions given by Paisley First Chairman (Tom Stewart) and Manager (Sunil Varu) as well as Renfrewshire Council’s Tourism Development Officer, Lynn Rew. Malcolm Roughead, VisitScotland CEO, also made a personal visit to the Paisley stand.

“Pride of Paisley” comes to town in 2016!

Quite possibly the best project/festival to come to Paisley is being planned now for Summer 2016 in conjunction with “Wild in Art”! A 10 week public art sculpture trail of more than 30 full sized painted lions and cub sized sculptures will grace the streets of Paisley town centre that will add footfall and vibrancy to the town centre and attract visitor from near and far.

The project title - “Pride of Paisley” – was inspired by “Buddie the Lion” which is in Paisley Museum and also the civic pride we are all trying to instil.

The project partners are Paisley First, Renfrewshire Council, Accord Hospice and St. Vincent’s Hospice. “Pride of Paisley” will engage with the artistic community and with primary schools across Renfrewshire. Renfrewshire businesses can get involved – contact us at ask@paisleyfirst.com to find out how!

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

15

Corporate Sales at Phoenix Kia The past few years have been very exciting for Phoenix Kia. We have seen all new models across the range, most recently the all-new Kia Sorento which offers new levels of luxury and a host of premium features. Kia sold more than 77,500 cars during 2014, an increase of 7.5 per cent, year-on-year; fleet sales reached 35,980 vehicles an increase of 4.5 per cent with the Sportage topping the charts of most popular model and it’s easy to see why.

The Kia Sportage is available in both 2WD and 4WD with the 1.7 CRDi 2WD being the most popular amongst fleet users due to its economy and stunning style. With CO2 emissions as low as 135g/km and a combined mileage of 54.3 coupled with standard features of Bluetooth with Voice recognition and audio streaming , LED Daytime Running Lights and rain sensing front wipers the Sportage does not disappoint.

If you are looking for more gadgets the top of the range Sportage ‘4’ will meet your requirements with 7” Touch screen Satellite Navigation, reversing camera and Parallel Park assist.

Our corporate sales team have been

hand picked for their expert knowledge and can offer a wide range of services including: • Free and impartial advice on your fleet requirements and the best model for you • Information on a range of finance and maintenance options

• Comprehensive business proposals • Competitor analysis • Company car tax calculations • Extended vehicle demonstrations For more information please contact our corporate sale team on 0141 849 5196.

Business Matters Summer 2015

16

48 years of Engineering the future of young people in Scotland We are proud to say that P & J Training have been delivering Modern Apprenticeships to the Engineering sector for 48 years. Paisley & Johnstone Training Group Ltd, a small charitable organisation based in Johnstone, was formed in July 1967 to help local young people into apprenticeships in Engineering in fact some of our trainee’s of yesteryear are today’s employers – a fact that we are very proud of and as we all know, Scotland produces some of the finest Engineers in the world Now in 2015, we still provide

apprenticeships in Welding & Fabrication, Engineering Manufacturing, Mechanical, Electrical, Maintenance and Technical Support at both Craft & Technician level but also Health & Safety Training to various sectors such as Engineering, Construction and Manufacturing Our training centre boasts a traditional workshop for Engineering and our client base covers the whole of Scotland and as you can see from our advertisement above we deliver a wide variety of Training.

Working in partnership with Worcester Bosch as their only training facility in the West of Scotland, we have an excellent

Oxy-Acetylene Cutting Domestic Gas Training•• facility Also Metal Inert Gas Welding • Manual Metal Arc Welding based here in Johnstone.

We also deliver • Tungsten Inert Gas Welding FGAS Refrigeration training, OFTEC • Sheet Metalwork and Fabrication Oil training and the new Legionella G8 Health & Safety which is a must for all you regulations • Confined Space • Basic Electrical (in house) Landlords • Combustible Dust out there.

• Ladder Safety • Noise & Vibration • Risk Assessment Training If you are thinking of taking on an • Safety Signs & PPE • CSCS card • Permit to Work System • COSHH Assessment Training Apprentice this year or would like any • Hand Tool Safety • CCNSG Safety Passport • information First Aid Training • Safe Use of Power Tools on the training we deliver • Asbestos Awareness • PASMA • here Fork Lift Truck • Abrasive Wheels Regulations & at Operation P & J then please contact Dee Mounting • Working at Height 01505 dee@ • IPAF MEWPS • on Slinging Signalling 323026 or email • IOSH Working Safely • Fire Safety • Mast Climbing • pjtraining.com Overhead Crane • Engineering SVQ Level 2, SVQ Level 3 & Modern Apprenticeship • Performing Engineering Operations • Introduction to Bench Fitting • Introduction to Milling • Introduction to Centre Lathe Turning

• • • •

Safe Use of Fire Equipment Banksman Safety Harness Manual Handling & Back Strain

• • • •

IOSH Managing Safely Aluminium Tower Scaffold Rooftop Safety Cat & Genny

Domestic

• Nationally A Scheme for G • BPEC Gas Fo • Appliances – MET1 • Energy Effici Level 3 • Unvented H • Water Bylaw

Contact Dee Law on 01505 3230 or email dee@pjtraining.com The Training Centre, Laighcartside Street, Johnstone, PA5 8DB

• Engineering SVQ Level 2, SVQ Level 3 & Modern Apprenticeship • Performing Engineering Operations • Introduction to Bench Fitting • Introduction to Milling • Introduction to Centre Lathe Turning

• • • • •

Oxy-Acetylene Cutting Metal Inert Gas Welding Manual Metal Arc Welding Tungsten Inert Gas Welding Sheet Metalwork and Fabrication

• • • • • • • • •

Confined Space Ladder Safety Risk Assessment Training CSCS card COSHH Assessment Training CCNSG Safety Passport Safe Use of Power Tools PASMA Abrasive Wheels Regulations & Mounting IPAF MEWPS IOSH Working Safely Mast Climbing IOSH Managing Safely Aluminium Tower Scaffold Rooftop Safety Cat & Genny

Health & Safety • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Basic Electrical (in house) Combustible Dust Noise & Vibration Safety Signs & PPE Permit to Work System Hand Tool Safety First Aid Training Asbestos Awareness Fork Lift Truck Operation Working at Height Slinging Signalling Fire Safety Overhead Crane Safe Use of Fire Equipment Banksman Safety Harness Manual Handling & Back Strain

• • • • • • •

Domestic Gas Training • Nationally Accredited Certification Scheme for Gas Fitting Operatives (ACS) • BPEC Gas Foundation • Appliances – CKR1, HTR1, CENWAT, MET1 • Energy Efficiency for Domestic Heating Level 3 • Unvented Hot Water Systems • Water Bylaws

Contact Dee Law on 01505 323026 or email dee@pjtraining.com The Training Centre, Laighcartside Street, Johnstone, PA5 8DB

• Domestic Solar Hot Water • LPG • OFT 50 & OFTEC • Green Deal Installer • Electrical & Boiler Fault Finding • F Gas (Refrigeration) • Bespoke Gas Awareness Courses • Domestic & Commercial Gas Audits

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

17



“You could be Better Off Moving   Office to Mirren Court”

DP DPGroup Grouphave have aa variety variety of of well well positioned positionedoffices offices to to let let in in Paisley at Mirren M MirrenCourt, Court,Renfrew Renfrew Road, Road, near M8 27 and Mirren Chambers, Gauze Stre 27 and Mirren Chambers, Stre the theTown TownCentre.

Centre. We We are are very keen helpnew newand andexisting existing Renfrewshire Renfrewshire help businesses expand their businesses expand their local operat Thereare arethree threeindividual individual extended There impressive sandstone buildings at Mi impressive sandstone buildings Headquarters building which could be easily converted into a Mirren Court offers a variety of space and lots of parking Court with ample private car car parking. parking. variety of alternative uses, including artist’s studios. for lease starting with space for one person up to suites Court with ample private DP Group also have one last remaining 1150sqft open plan for twenty plus. The suites are available from small suitesavailable available are are from from 250sqft 250sqft suit suites suit floor with parking in the Town Centre at Mirren Chambers 240sqft rooms in our business centre (with common for one person up to space for 20 for one person up to space for 20 plu plu which is close to all amenities. break out tea prep) up to individual self contained persons as well as a stand alone 800 If you are thinking of moving office please give us a call and 2300sqft floor plates. persons as well as a stand alone 800 you never know “you could be better off moving office to We have a great choice of space in between for businesses listed Headquarters Building. listed Headquarters Building.

Mirren Court”. Tel 0141 843 4211 of all sizes, as well as a stand alone 8000sqft listed MirrenChambers Chambers we we have have one one las AtAtMirren las remaining 1150sqft open plan suite remaining 1150sqft open plan suite fo fo leasewith withcar carparking parking well well located located clo lease cl to the Abbey. to the Abbey.

TO LET Please call Visit now to arrange a viewing. at Please call nowourtowebsite arrange a viewing Mirren Court | 119-123 Renfrew Road | Paisley www.dpgroup.org.uk Tel.: 0141 843 4211 Tel.: 0141 843 4211 Web. www.dpgroup.org.uk Web. www.dpgroup.org.uk

The Best Office Location in Paisley...

Just off M8 Jct 27/Glasgow Airport • • • • •

Business Centre Suites from 240 sq ft up to 2200 sq ft Private Parking (1 space per 300 sq ft) Flexible Terms On Site Management Close to all Amenities, Gyms, Restaurants, Retail Parks

Tel : 0141 843 4211

Property Investments

Business Matters Summer 2015

18

Where’s there’s blame, there’s a claim...

How often have we heard that phrase? Some have suggested that the introduction of fees in the Employment Tribunal and the consequent reduction in the number of Employment Tribunal claims raised in the Employment Tribunal has resulted in employment law creating little risk for business, thereby avoiding the need for proper employment law advice and support. But is this right?

What’s the risk?

We all know that staff are often our biggest asset but care is needed given the increased complexity of employment law. Failure to comply with employment law can create considerable liabilities and risks for an organisation. While employees do still need at least 2 years’ continuous service to claim unfair dismissal (or to be eligible for a redundancy payment), all workers have the right to claim unlawful discrimination.

Indeed unlawful discrimination claims can arise before the employment relationship has even started – from applicants – and can arise after the employment relationship has ended – from former workers.

Further, such claims can be made by “workers” (a wider subset of individual compared to “employees”).

Except for claims for direct age discrimination, claims for direct discrimination for any other reason cannot be justified (and so the employer’s motive for the treatment is irrelevant). And claims for indirect discrimination can arise in cases where a seemingly neutral provision, criterion or practice has been applied to all staff but adversely affects a larger

proportion of staff with a particular protected characteristic (such as those with a particular religion or of a particular age or gender). It is also not difficult to find conduct in the workplace that satisfies the very wide legal definition of harassment.

There are also a number of other areas of employment law where claims can arise, including in relation to Working Time Regulations (such as holiday pay), the National Minimum Wage Regulations, whistleblowing etc.

The recent increasing of the penalty for failure to comply with the National Minimum Wage Regulations to £20,000 per worker gives an indication of the risks (and possible costs) in this area.

There are also a large number of grounds (in excess of 27) where a dismissal can be automatically unfair.

Such claims can arise where the reason for the dismissal was related to health and safety, trade union reasons, political beliefs and many more. Many of these claims do not require a minimum level of continuous service and many have the cap on compensation removed. There is of course no limit on compensation that can be awarded following a successful discrimination claim.

The need to take care But what does all this mean for employers? It is clear that the introduction of fees within the Employment Tribunal system has made raising a claim more difficult for a large proportion of the working population (many of whom may not be prepared to risk paying the Tribunal fees). Nevertheless the increase in employment related insurance products

David Hoey, Partner, Accredited Employment Law Specialist

(which can often be part of the home insurance premium) and the involvement of a trade union can mitigate against the costs of raising a claim.

Keeping on the right side of the law Employment law is complex and changes almost on a daily basis. By keeping up to date with employment law, employers ensure that the risk is minimised.

Compliance with the law also creates a positive culture. It is important not to underestimate the effect following good employment law/HR practice can have on an organisation, whether in terms of productivity, staff retention or recruitment.

Compliance with employment law is an important part of day to day business. Having an employment law specialist to help you keep up with such a fast paced fascinating area of law and to support your organisation is a must.

Perhaps the slogan should be “Without advice, you’re skating on thin ice”…

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

19

There’s There’s never never enough enough time. time.

Let’s Let’s make make some. some.

Want to grow your business?

Want to grow your business?

Start here.

Start here.

Business Gateway Renfrewshire has Business Gateway Renfrewshire has a wealth of resources, fresh perspectives a wealth of resources, fresh perspectives and new ideas to help growing businesses and new ideas to help growing businesses – all of which can be tailored to your needs.

– all of which can be tailored to your needs.

We also have qualified growth advisers We also have qualified growth advisers who understand the challenges growing who understand the challenges growing businesses face. businesses face.

To find out more, call now on 0141 530 2406 To find out more, call now on 0141 530 2406 or visit www.bgateway.com/renfrewshire or visit www.bgateway.com/renfrewshire Download our free business support app.

Download our free business support app.

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

Expert Expert surgeries surgeries to to help help your your business business grow grow

Developing a business isn’t always straightforward Developing business isn’t always straightforward but with theacorrect support, you can overcome the but with the correct support, you can the challenges and grasp the opportunitiesovercome that will lead challenges to growth. and grasp the opportunities that will lead to growth.

Designed to provide intensive one-to-one tailored Designed provide intensive one-to-one tailored support ontotopics relevant to the local Renfrewshire support topics relevant to the local Renfrewshire businesson community, Business Gateway’s hour long business community, hour long Expert Surgeries aim toBusiness arm youGateway’s with the information Expert Surgeries aim to arm you with the information needed to tackle specific issues head on. needed to tackle specific issues head on.

Graeme Currie of Business Gateway said: Graeme Currie that of Business Gateway said: “We understand every local business is unique, “We that everycan local business is unique, andunderstand that tailored advice help companies and that tailored canwith helpgreater companies overcome hurdlesadvice faster and confidence overcome faster with confidence than if lefthurdles to resolve anand issue ongreater their own. than if left to resolve an issue on their own.

“These surgeries have been devised specifically “These surgeries haveowners been devised to provide business with anspecifically opportunity provideexpert business owners an opportunity to access support thatwith will help them grow to access expert support that will help them grow their business further.” their business further.”

The free surgeries, available to all Renfrewshire The free owners, surgeries, available alloffices Renfrewshire business take place intoour at Hillington business owners,Centre, take place in our offices at Hillington Park Innovation Hillington and include: Park Innovation Centre, Hillington and include: Download our free business support app.

Download our free business support app.

• Tendering & Procurement Advice – 25th August, • Tendering & Procurement Advice – 25th August, appointments from 9am to 1pm.

Access a procurement appointments from 9am to 1pm.

Access a procurement expert that can support you in your next bid. expert that can support you in your next bid.

• E-business & Website Development – 21st July, • E-business Website Development – 21st from July, 20th August,&17th September, appointments 20th August, 17th September, appointments 9.30am to 4.30pm.

This surgery will providefrom 9.30am to 4.30pm. provide information on SEO,This websurgery design,will compliance information on SEO, web design, compliance and other related web issues. and other related web issues.

• Business Marketing – 22nd July, 18th August, 15th • Business Marketing – 22nd July, 18th August, 15th September, appointments from 9:30am to 4:30pm.

September, from 9:30am to 4:30pm.

This surgeryappointments will review your current strategy and This will additional review yourmarketing current strategy look surgery at possible activityand look at possible additional marketing activity including both traditional and digital techniques. including both traditional and digital techniques.

• Legal Issues – 11th August, appointments from • Legal Issues – 11th August, 9.30am to 11.30am.

Find outappointments about the legalfrom issues 9.30am to 11.30am.

Find out the legal issues to consider when looking to about grow your business. to consider when looking to grow your business.

To reserve a place at one of the surgeries To reserve a place one of Gateway the surgeries or to find out how at Business can help or tovisit findwww.bgateway.com/askrenfrewshire out how Business Gateway can help you, you, visit www.bgateway.com/askrenfrewshire or call your local office on 0141 530 2406. or call your local office on 0141 530 2406.

Business Matters Summer 2015

20

Up Periscope The Future of Social Media is Live So I’ve been playing with Live Streaming lately, using both the Periscope and Meerkat apps, and despite some flaws and limitations on both systems, I have to say that on the whole I’m pretty convinced by them.

Live streaming isn’t new.. there’s been numerous cheap and cheerful ways of doing it for years, but what makes these apps different is how easy it is to do, and how quickly you can build an audience.

All you need is a mobile phone and a twitter account.

That’s it. Even on a fairly

average 3G connection, the streaming capability is decent, with video and voice more than acceptable for real-time playback on your viewers mobile devices.

In terms of “Which is best – Periscope or Meerkat?” – for me, Periscope edges it. The user interface is simple, it was easy to build my audience through my existing Twitter followers (as you’d expect since Twitter recently bought Periscope for just under $100 million), and I was up and running within minutes.

Once you’ve finished your

live broadcast, Periscope stores your video on the Periscope website, allowing your followers to watch it on replay via the app. Be aware however that it only stays there for 24 hours. Meerkat has for some reason decided to avoid any replay feature (if you miss it live, you’ve missed it), but both give the option of storing the video on your mobile phone, so if you want them archived, you could upload them to YouTube or Facebook later on.

One of the other features that both these apps have in their favour (over YouTube and other online video services) is user engagement.

Your viewers can talk to you or ask questions via on-screen comments. These are seen not just by you, but by all the viewers watching, so while there’s a risk it can all turn into a bit of a rabble, used well it’s a great way of conversing with an audience, reacting to what they’ve got to say, rather than just a one-way broadcast.

So far, we’ve really just been playing with Live Streaming – doing live demos during our social media workshops, and the occasional impromptu “social media tips” or “random thoughts” videos, streamed to anyone who cares to tune in and watch them. And remarkably – that audience has been considerably larger than I first thought it would have been. And that’s why I think there’s a real opportunity here for people and businesses to take advantage of. On Periscope – you already have a willing audience. Unlike so many new tools under the banner of social media, you don’t have

Gary Ennis, NSDesign

to spend time, effort (and often expense) to grow your followers - you’ll hopefully already have them on Twitter.

Assuming you let it, Periscope will automatically broadcast on Twitter that you’re live, as well as updating everyone using the app who follows you. My simple test broadcasts have easily attracted close to 100 viewers each time, and (being honest) they’ve been pretty pointless so far!

This will however certainly change going forward, as we consider where Live Streaming could really benefit us. Workshops streamed live, broadcasting speakers at the various conferences we get involved in, office fun and banter, behind the scenes, expertise tips and tricks, Q&A, the list goes on. There’s loads of potential for using a tool like Periscope to showcase your business, and show the world what you actually do.

Get in quick - there’s a real buzz about Live Streaming right now. Everyone’s playing with it, and with the right message, you could find it delivers a better result than some of your other marketing channels.

Now anyone can see what you want them to. Go Live – it’s quite possibly the future!

Gary Ennis Managing Director, NSDesign @NSDesign

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

21

Business Matters Summer 2015

22

Fred MacAulay

ROCCO 2015 launches in July The ROCCOs (the annual business awards of Renfrewshire Chamber) are now established for over a decade and is the premier black tie event in Renfrewshire and the awards for businesses and organisations to win locally.

Keep your eye out for our marketing across all our channels for the launch – entry is free and open to all Renfrewshire Chamber members regardless of location and non-members that are based in Renfrewshire. Entry will close early September, so plenty of time. We recommend you get the awards night in your diary, if not already – tables sell out quick – it will be Friday 20th Nov at The Normandy with host Fred MacAulay. Good luck!

www.roccoawards.com Business Busine Get your ss s Busines Matters Matters s r e t t a M message 0 5 out to the Chamber Renfrewshire celebrates 0 years celebrates 5Chamber Business Matt ers 50 years & ROCCO 4 1 0 R enfrewshire 2 in business in 2 014 finalists announced community AUTUMN 2014 EDITION

HELPING RENFREWSHIRE GROW & PROSPER

& PROSPER EWSHIRE GROW HELPING RENFR

EDITION SPRING 2014

SUMMER 2014 EDITION

HELPING RENFR EWSHIRE GROW & PROSPER

YEARS

4 1964 - 201

Inside: y B2B 2014 Busin t returns to Paisle Themes: • B2B even ess r Education & train Matters in Renfrewshire • re Asset Strategy • 3rd Secto Regular featu Member news ing • Busin Paisley Town Cent erty • Tourism & Leisure cil & res: Chamber rewshire Coun Prop news • Renfrews ess support & finance Inside: g people • Renf Construction & • hire Council & ols & youn • Logistics & Transport & lots more...

Scho Themes: Export & International Trade Invest in Renfrews news Themes: more... res: Chamber hire update & lotsRegular hire • Renfrewshire Council & Invest in Renfrewshire Update rews features: Chamber News Regular featu Renf in Invest

& lots more...

Business Matters (this magazine) is the magazine of Renfrewshire Chamber and is sent to all members, hotels, business centres, receptions and quality coffee shops across Renfrewshire.

Inform readers about: Your new product or service; awards; new office; new member of staff etc…

2,000 copies distributed every quarter, shared online and at all Chamber Events.

Contact Euan Keltie at the Chamber for more info.

ekeltie@renfrewshirechamber.com 0141 847 5464

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

23

New Members

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

Anonymous Detailing Ltd

Gleddoch Hotel and Spa

PomPom

Paintwork Correction Specialists Ashley Whitelock 0141 212 6660 accounts@anonymousdetailing.co.uk www.anonymousdetailing.co.uk

Hotel & Golf Estate Chris Davis 01475 540711 chris@gleddoch.com www.gleddoch.com

Luxury Designer Silk Scarves Doreen Smith 07881 653 037 pompomuk@aol.com www.pom-pom.uk

Consilium Contracting Services Ltd

LEAP (SC10) Local Energy Action Plan

Street League

Technical Installation/Facilities Mgt Paul McGrath 0800 689 1462 enquiry@consiliumcs.co.uk www.consiliumcs.co.uk

Energy Transport Training/Education Scott Duncan 01505 842 530 scott@myleapproject.org www.myleapproject.org

Consilium UK

Mark Bradford Consulting

IT Consultancy Joel Scott 0141 847 1545 joel.scott@consilium-uk.com www.consilium-uk.com

Business Consultancy Mark Bradford 01505 872582 mark@mbradford.co.uk www.mbradford.co.uk

Enviraz (Scotland) Ltd

MK Safety Solutions

Asbestos Removal/enviornmental Hannah Graham 0141 882 8440 hgraham@enviraz.co.uk www.enviraz.co.uk

Training Provider Kenneth Walker 0141 354 1442 kenny@mksafetysolutions.com www.mksafetysolutions.com

Enviraz Surveys Ltd

New Street Trustees Ltd

Asbestos removal / enviornmental Hannah Graham 0141 882 1414 hgraham@envirazsurveys.co.uk www.envirazsurveys.co.uk

Financial Services Peter Wylie 0141 848 7774 p.wylie@btconnect.com www.newstreettrustees.co.uk

Social Enterprise-Employability Sarah Crossley 07580 786 363 sarah.crossley@streetleague.co.uk www.streetleague.co.uk

T D Letting Letting Agent Charlene McGhee 01505 327006 charlene@tdletting.com www.tdletting.com

The Company Growth Team Strategic Marketing Consultancy Paul Murray 07771 930841 Paul@cgtl.co.uk www.companygrowth.co.uk

William Waters & Sons Coachbuilding / Mechanical Repairs W Waters 07435 621 731 waterswpwe@hotmail.co.uk

Wilson & Gunn Architects Architects/Interior Design William Gunn 0141 331 0377 will@wilsongunnarchitects.com www.wilsongunnarchitects.com

Another 1st for Renfrewshire Chamber Renfrewshire Chamber recently became the 1st Chamber in the UK to be Living Wage Accredited. Commenting on the accreditation, chamber CEO Bob Davidson said “the Chamber has been paying Living Wage and above for a number of years – so we didn’t need to make many changes to qualify.”

“However this will support our role in the Tackling Poverty work that is underway in Renfrewshire and shows to our members and other organisations, that along with our other accreditations such as IIP Silver and IIYP that we are a wellrun progressive organisation.” Bob added “we are however

aware that Living Wage accreditation is not for everyone – and working with our colleagues in Scottish Chamber to understand in areas like the recently announced Scottish Government Business Pledge – what part Living Wage will play in procurement, e.g. will contract values be increased to account for companies paying Living Wage rather than expect them to absorb the increased cost if they are not paying it already.

Business Matters Summer 2015

24

Patrick & John from SSUK

MORE PLEASANT MEETINGS AWAIT...

John and the decorating student apprentices from West College Scotland

We have refreshed our facilities at the Chamber and used this opportunity to provide a valuable ‘live project’ for local students from the College. The apprentices have done a great job and local AV installers SSUK have installed new LED screens in each of the rooms with input panels for HDMI , VGA & audio.

The 4 rooms can cater for 1-20 people and are ideal for meetings, interviews & training sessions. With free parking & free wifi plus access to our office services and a full catering menu – the rooms are now better equipped to cater for business needs – and better still we have a price guarantee. Remember Chamber members get a 10% discount.

CERTIFICATE OF WORK READINESS Could you offer a young jobseeker work experience?

The Certificate of Work Readiness has been developed for employers, using the key attributes they look for when employing staff. A mixture of work experience and employer assessments lie at the heart of the Certificate and prove that a young person, aged 16 to 19, has reached an employer defined standard.

The certificate has benefits for both employers and employees alike. For employers it has the following key benefits: • Helps employers hire 'job ready' staff • Employer controlled and endorsed employee development • Support from a training provider • No requirements to pay a wage but the young person may be eligible for a training allowance.

The Certificate gives a young person the chance to demonstrate the value they can bring to your business. You

can help them earn a certified SQA qualification which shows they have the right work experience for the career they want.

For employees it has the following key benefits: • A foot in the door with employers in an increasingly difficult employment climate • Earn an industry recognised SQA accredited qualification upon completion • Gain work experience.

What's involved?

The Certificate takes around ten weeks to complete and includes a minimum of 190 hours work experience. A training provider will offer support to minimise the time you need to spend on the process.

How will it work?

A training provider will visit you to

agree what will be expected in the workplace. You should allocate a supervisor who will be aware of the young person's attendance and attitude throughout the placement. You will assess the young person by completing a scorecard at the end of the placement with support from the training provider. A training provider will be on hand to offer support, liaising with the supervisor as required. During the work placement, the young person will visit with the training provider one day a week for follow up work.

To sign up please email bdavidson@renfrewshirechamber. com

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

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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

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 • Presentation equipment / catering available • Price guarantee

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

26

Business Matters Summer 2015

B2B2015 - BUSINESS MATTERS IN RENFREWSHIRE

Sponsored by:

Renfrewshire Chamber held its 5th B2B (Business to Business) event recently in Paisley. “Business Matters in Renfrewshire” was held over 2 days in the town to help local businesses of all sectors and sizes grow and prosper.

Day 1, sponsored by Microsoft attracted just under 70 exhibitors with ~ 250 attendees across the whole day. The 6 free seminars shared info & gave best practice examples on a number of hot topics including latest tech & innovation for your business, to helping local organisations understand more about City Deal and international opportunities.

Day 2, sponsored by Worldpay was held at Paisley Town Hall – and the 150+ audience listened and had the opportunity to ask questions of the 4 speakers:

1. Cabinet Secretary for Infrastructure, Investment and Cities – Keith Brown MSP 2. Deputy Scottish Labour Leader – Kezia Dugdale MSP 3. RBS Chief Economist – Stephen Boyle 4. 20yo entrepreneur - Founder & CEO of “We are the Future” – Bruce Walker In addition to business people – both days were attended by local secondary school pupils plus students from UWS & West College Scotland.

Commenting on the event Chamber chief exec Bob Davidson said “thank you to all our exhibitors, speakers & sponsors” – the chamber hopes everyone involved benefited from #b2bpaisley. We aim to return for our 6th consecutive year in 2016 – and encourage all businesses and local organisations to support the event. As the largest free business event in the area – it is a great opportunity to see the breadth and depth of businesses out there, promote your business, and network & learn from others.

To view the images from the 2 days please visit the Chambers facebook page at facebook.com/RenfrewshireChamberofCommerce

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

27

Chamber President Audrey Cumberford

Glenn Woolaghan, Director of Microsoft UK Small and Medium Business

Johnstone High School

Cabinet Secretary Keith Brown MSP

John Shaw, Fission Creative

Chamber event bag by Smart Promotions

Deputy Labour Leader Kezia Dugdale MSP

Stephen McFadden, City Deal Project Director

Stephen Boyle RBS Head Economist

UWS lecturer Alan Murray

Audience at Day 2

Bruce Walker – CEO We are the Future

Colin Kelly, NSDesign

Microsoft team – day 1 sponsor

BBC’s Douglas Fraser (host)

Chris Lynch, Santander

Allan Shearer, Worldpay – day 2 sponsor

Business Matters Summer 2015

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Voyager project - A local project helping University students conduct international research for local Renfrewshire businesses has been deemed a success.

The Voyager Project was a partnership initiative involving SE, UWS, Renfrewshire Council and the Chamber – whereby UWS students were assigned to Chamber members and local businesses that had a suitable piece of international themed research needing done that would serve as an excellent learning opportunity for the students and also add value to their business. Voyager like ExpoRen in 2014 – had the Jobs & Economy Thematic Board of the Community Planning Partnership as a catalyst. Following a request from the J&E Board for more innovation and partner working – SE & the Chamber asked UWS to work with them on Voyager.

The Chamber asked members and local businesses to get involved including:

Many of the Voyager students, clients, mentors & partners

• Ashtree House Hotel • Dimensional Imaging • Eadie & Kanai Co. Ltd • Jenier Teas • Kennett Watches • Peak Scientific • Scottish Leather (A Muirhead) • Smith & McLaurin • Tendercush • Worldteachers

Winning team with David Gibson from A Muirhead & Son

With support from the University, the business mentors and full access to SE research team – students met with their clients and understood the “brief ”. From that they developed a proposal, then conducted research and produced a final report.

The last part was the team presenting their findings and discussing their experience at a “finals presentation” at the SE Board room at the end of May. All the students who participated were awarded a Certificate of Achievement, and the offer of a professional reference from their mentor. The Winning Team (for Andrew Muirhead & Son.), and Winning Individual (for Worldteachers) who scored most highly overall between their written report and Presentation,

were awarded prize cheques donated by the Chamber.

Alison Loveday, Senior Executive, Customer Operations at SE commented “The Voyager pilot has been an outstanding success. Scottish Enterprise and SDI have been delighted to lead this project along with Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce and University of the West of Scotland. The enthusiasm, commitment and vision of all the partners and of course the students in undertaking such a challenging project has shown just how effective real partnership working can be.”

Katie White, UWS Student, Individual Winner “I am delighted! It was such a great experience taking part in the Voyager programme and this just makes

it even better!”

Meg Dunn, Senior Lecturer, UWS “It was quickly evident with the students that chose to particpate in the Voyager project that as a result they became Winning individual – Katie more confident White with Roddy Hammond through dealing from Worldteachers with their realworld business clients and in applying the business theory they had learned.

Particularly when presenting their findings, they were positive and assured - quite a transformation in the space of one trimester! UWS were delighted to support this very valuable initiative.”

Chamber chief exec Bob Davidson commented “The evaluation report is being finalised but we expect to continue and indeed expand this type of partnership activity. Like all initiatives of this nature, based on feedback there are learnings and therefore changes we would apply to make the experience even better for all concerned. I would like to thank all the partners, mentors, clients and students for all their efforts and making Voyager a success.”

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

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Up & Chamber Pictures Coming

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

1.

2.

3.

June Networking lunch with Tony Fitzpatrick 25th June at The Lynnhurst

*** No lunch in July due to holidays *** 4.

August lunch 27/8 at The Lynnhurst with Amanda McMillan OBE, MD Glasgow Airport

October lunch 29/10 with Bill Munro, Chairman Barrhead Travel at the Holiday Inn, Glasgow Airport

ROCCO 2015 with Fred MacAulay 20/11 The Normandy 1. Malcom Roughead CEO Visitscotland 2. Fraser Campbell, Partner- Campbell Dallas 3. May lunch: Carol Smillie, Tom Johnston & Morag Pavich 4. Tom Johnston, Honorary President presenting cheque for the Singing Kids of Africa 5. Stuart turns 18 (and passed his driving test!)

November lunch 26/11 with Sandra Black, CEO Renfrewshire Council at St Mirren

AGM & Xmas lunch 17/12 at The Glynhill

facebook.com/renfrewshirechamberofcommerce Follow the chamber:

twitter.com/renfrewshirecoc

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• support towards the wage costs of taking on a young unemployed person; and • loans to help with working capital or the purchase of equipment.

or call

Business Matters Summer 2015

0300 300 1180

The Future’s Bright for Renfrewshire’s Apprentices

This year’s Scottish Apprenticeship Week ran from 18- 22 May and gave 1619 year olds the chance to investigate the opportunities that a Modern Apprenticeship can offer. Some of Renfrewshire’s current apprentices met with Council Leader, Mark Macmillan, to discuss how they are building careers with local employers.

David Harris, is doing his apprenticeship with Paisley Autocare. He said; “I’ve always loved cars and to work with them every day is a real treat. It’s inspiring when you get the chance to do a specific piece of work on a car. I also value the security of knowing I have a job with people I like for the next four years.

His boss, John Convery is a great believer in apprenticeships. “It’s how we do things in this trade but, more than that, it’s how we like to work. It means we can train staff who’ll help our business grow and we create long term career opportunities for local people.

Claire Crummie is in the second year of her apprenticeship with Napier Hair and Beauty. She was attracted by the opportunity to “earn and learn and work with people who have the same goals.

I get to experience every aspect of the hairdressing profession”. Claire would

recommend starting a career with an apprenticeship and advises others to “research the industry and employer that you’d like to work with and make sure they can provide you with the training you need to take you to wherever you want to go.”

Napier Hair and Beauty is owned

by Elaine Napier, who is another firm believer in training and staff development, said, “Hairdressing is a profession that offers great variety and career potential.

We make sure that our apprentices get broad training and experience of the highest standard. It pays off for us. We develop great hairdressers for a business where personal skills are vital. It also means that we forge strong, long term links with our clients.”

Also pictured, are Georgia Blair who is an apprentice dental nurse with Foxbar Dental Practice with Declan Hamilton and Connie Lamb who work for Invest in Renfrewshire.

They all value learning from colleagues and working towards their future. Georgia says, “You learn a lot quicker and you learn a lot more, I believe that being in the working environment develops your people and personal skills more rapidly.”

Councillor Mark Macmillan, Leader of Renfrewshire Council said, “These

young people are inspiring. They are committed to learning and professional development and are already a credit to their employers. They’re building a future for themselves in Renfrewshire and they’re helping businesses to grow.”

Graham McIntyre owns Gormac Coachworks and has employed a succession of apprentices who have stayed on with the business after they qualified. He says,“Our apprentices are part of Gormac’s growth story. We’ve built up a fantastic team over the years and its members are the key strength in this business. To prove the point, we expect to recruit another apprentice later this year.”

Councillor Mark Macmillan believes that apprenticeships are a vital part of Renfrewshire’s potential. “When an employer takes on an apprentice, they invest in that young person, they invest in their own growth, and they invest in Renfrewshire’s future. This is exactly how we want to strengthen Renfrewshire; with real opportunities, sustained business success and cooperation between businesses, residents, the council and our partners in education.”

To find out more about taking on an apprentice, call 0300 300 1180 or visit investinrenfrewshire.com.

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

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Johnstone Town Hall opens with afternoon-long party Johnstone’s new town hall was given a housewarming to remember – with an afternoon-long party to which the whole town was invited.

Thousands turned out to enjoy entertainment laid on by Renfrewshire Council designed to celebrate the £14.5m facility in the heart of the town.

The official opening was performed by local MSP Hugh Henry, who unveiled a plaque during a short ceremony for guests from the local community.

Clyde 1 DJs Gina McKie and George Bowie got the public party started on the main stage in Houstoun Square, with an afternoon of music, dance and more, as well as a funfair.

And local traders were able to show off everything the town has to offer to visitors, with a showcase run by the Johnstone Business Consortium.

The town hall will be a hub for life in Johnstone and the villages for generations to come, and contains modern facilities including theatre space, a library, dance

studio, ceremony suite, cafe, meeting rooms and conference facilities.

The building is also home to offices for council housing, social work, registry and Adviceworks staff, meaning it acts as a one-stop shop for a range of services.

Police Scotland and Macmillan Cancer Support are also due to move into the building later this year.

Renfrewshire’s Provost Anne Hall was there on the day and said: “This town hall is very much for the people of Johnstone - it was designed in partnership with the community and with their needs in mind.

“So it was only fitting that we put something on in the town centre on the day of the official opening which would bring the people of Johnstone and the

villages into the new building and the area around it.

“The day itself was a great success – it’s always a pleasure to be out and about and meeting people at occasions like this.”

The new Johnstone Town Hall is now available for functions, and will soon be taking its first wedding.

For more information, visit www. renfrewshire.gov.uk/johnstone, or call 0300 300 1210.

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

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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.

www.investinrenfrewshire.com

email Business Matters Summer 2015 invest@renfrewshire.gov.uk

City Deal Off To Official Start or call

0300 300 1180

- Businesses in Renfrewshire are in the right place at the right time Multi-million pound plans to transform Renfrewshire’s business and investment potential took another step forward on Wednesday 4 June.

Councillors approved the Strategic Business Cases for two City Deal projects, marking the official start of City Deal investment in Renfrewshire.

This decision is the first stage in developing the detailed plans which will eventually lead to an investment of £129 million funding for major transport and regeneration projects in Renfrewshire. When delivered, the projects will help attract investment to Renfrewshire and offer its businesses better connections with the City Deal Region.

Work will start first on an extensive new network of roads, paths and a bridge will link up the new Glasgow Airport Investment Area. The second project will deliver a new Clyde bridge and associated roads that will connect Renfrew to Yoker. Both projects are part of the £1.13 billion Glasgow and Clyde Valley City Deal and are expected to unlock Renfrewshire’s immense economic potential by improving the connections between key business sites, residential areas, and the wider transport network.

They will raise Renfrewshire’s profile and place it at the centre of the region’s growth.

New links at Renfrew Riverside

The £78 million Clyde Waterfront and Renfrew Riverside project will build a new ‘opening’ bridge across the Clyde to create an important connection between the communities and businesses on either side of the river. It is also expected to stimulate the development of vacant land in the area.

Businesses should also receive a triple boost resulting from less traffic congestion , more connections with potential customers and suppliers, and the Simplified Planning Zone proposal for the town centre. Now under consultation, the SPZ is set to give businesses in Renfrew’s Town Centre

new flexibility to respond to these opportunities.

The Riverside project will deliver benefits beyond the Renfrew area. The bridge, and the roads that connect it, will ease traffic flow throughout the area; opening up growth and jobs opportunities for businesses throughout Renfrewshire.

Councillor Mark Macmillan, Leader of Renfrewshire Council said: “This new bridge will bring tangible benefits across Renfrewshire. It will free up movement throughout the area and create growth opportunities for us all. It is also a symbol of change and of our newly pivotal role in the regional economy.”

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

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Airport Investment Area Takes Off Councillors also approved plans to develop the Glasgow Airport Investment Area. The infrastructure investment around Glasgow Airport will link the Westway, Inchinnan and Airport Business Parks and create further connections with Paisley and Renfrew Town Centres and with the University of the West of Scotland Campus.

The £51 million project will build roads, cycle routes and a bridge to pull Renfrewshire’s diverse economic assets together and open up unused land for development. The Airport Investment Area will offer businesses a unique mix of air, sea and land transport options; access to research, development and academic resources; and proximity to a workforce already renowned for its skills and drive. It is expected to generate jobs by supporting - and attracting - growing businesses.

Councillor Macmillan said: “The Airport Investment Area will be a truly modern business location with a vital role in the region’s economic growth. The new infrastructure will join up Renfrewshire’s strengths to create a varied, dynamic and integrated power house where innovation and enterprise can flourish.”

Renfrewshire’s economy will also benefit hugely from the City Deal’s Airport Access

Project. This will create a link between Glasgow Central Station, Paisley and the airport. Engineers are currently examining options to identify the best route and solutions for this link.

Councillor Macmillan added: “We know that the airport is vital to Renfrewshire’s economy and we cannot overestimate

the importance of the Investment Area and the Access Project to our future.

Renfrewshire is already rich in industrial assets, inventiveness, skills and energy.

The new infrastructure will connect these strengths, help realise our potential and benefit all our communities for generations to come.”

Widening horizons for all our communities City Deal Investment will bring a step change in the area’s economic fortunes and Mark Macmillan believes that Renfrewshire deserves the opportunities it will create: “For generations, Renfrewshire’s people have been innovative, enterprising and hard working. The new infrastructure will connect and combine what we have already created. This is our chance to capitalise in our talents and take our well-earned place in the wider economy.”

The opportunities that the City Deal offers will build upon Renfrewshire’s ongoing regeneration success. The Council Leader said: “Invest in Renfrewshire is in its third year. It has helped more than 750 local businesses to grow, generated work and training opportunities for 857 local people and helped almost 2,000 other people to find jobs. All this has been done as a partnership between the business community and the council and its success is an example of Renfrewshire’s local talent, pride and community strength. These are the qualities that will equip us to make the most of the City Deal.”

The Glasgow and Clyde Valley City Deal includes eight council areas with a total

population of 1.75 million. Renfrewshire, with a population of 175,000, is receiving a 24.2% slice of total City Deal funding. The scale and nature of these infrastructure projects will open the whole area to new opportunities. Mark Macmillan said: “Renfrewshire is getting a big share of City Deal funding because we have strong assets and capacity for growth. It is also an indication of the important role that we will play in the region’s economic future.”

Bob Davidson, Chief Executive of Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce, says: “The City Deal brings huge opportunities for businesses in Renfrewshire. At the Chamber we will do everything we can to help make sure local businesses know what’s needed to get a share of these opportunities during its construction phase and beyond - as its wider economic benefits emerge. ” All three City Deal projects will add impetus and value to Paisley’s regeneration. Already, plans to use the town’s impressive industrial and cultural heritage to transform its economic fortunes are gaining ground. Mark Macmillan said: “Paisley’s regeneration and our bid for City of culture in 2021, are reminding local people

and – the wider world – what a great place this is. We already welcome increasing numbers of people to enjoy our history, architecture, cultural activities and events. While the City Deal infrastructures will make it easier for more people to visit Paisley, they will want to do so because our history is unique, our heritage spectacular and our values authentic.”

Work will start on the Airport Investment Area 2017 and on Renfrew Riverside project in 2018. Both projects will create jobs and business prospects during their construction. Renfrewshire’s businesses, our partnership approach, and our ongoing regeneration success will ensure that the area can benefit extensively from City Deal’s longer term opportunities.

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• support towards the wage costs of taking on a young unemployed person; and • loans to help with working capital or the purchase of equipment.

or call

Business Matters Summer 2015

0300 300 1180

Invest Partnership Builds Benefits for All

Good things are happening in Renfrewshire. Unemployment is falling faster than in most other local authority areas and youth unemployment has halved in the three years since the employability and business support partnership, Invest in Renfrewshire was launched.

The programme’s ethos is refreshingly simple. Businesses want to grow and they need the right skills and staff to do so. People want to work and they need the right skills to contribute to their employers’ success. Recognising that these needs are complementary, and that, with some business support, they could lead to new jobs being created, the council committed £10.5million to the Invest partnership. Renfrewshire’s business community responded with a committed to generating jobs and work experience opportunities.

Partnership is at the heart of Invest’s success. 771 businesses have formally signed up to the programme. They give their time and expertise to Renfrewshire’s unemployed residents and 501 of them have created new jobs and internships for young people.

The results of that partnership are impressive. Since the launch of Invest in Renfrewshire in June 2012, Renfrewshire’s businesses and the council have generated a total of 857 new paid posts; 649 through wage subsidies and Employer Recruitment Incentive programme, 162 in Graduate Internships and 46 as council traineeships.

Invest in Renfrewshire has also helped a further 2,000 people find wider employment opportunities.

Invest in Renfrewshire is about the sort of sustainable business growth that leads to wider economic success. In three years, 271 companies have been offered grants totalling more than £1,251,223.

This is funding for growth and supports business’s organisational, staff, systems and market development.

A thriving small business sector is vital to Renfrewshire. In the 30 months since Invest in Renfrewshire took on the new Business Gateway contract, it has helped to establish 776 new companies. Small businesses have also been helped to overcome barriers to growth with micro loans in excess of £76,600. The Retail Improvement Scheme has approved 119 formal applications and granted

a total of £700,000 to local retailers whose enterprises serve Renfrewshire’s communities and attract visitors to the area.

The Leader of Renfrewshire Council, Mark Macmillan, believes that a shared local ethos and identity have contributed to a breadth of success ‘Renfrewshire is characterised by a profound belief in our potential and a strong commitment to generating the sort of growth that benefits businesses, communities and individuals.”

As the Glasgow and Clyde Valley City Deal moves ahead, the importance of ambition and partnership become even clearer. Councillor Macmillan says; “The City Deal projects will join up our assets and position Renfrewshire as a chief driver of economic growth in City Region. We are primed to take advantage of these opportunities because we have a business culture based on partnership, growth and enterprise. We should be proud of our success and preparing to extend and sustain it.”

To sign up to Invest in Renfrewshire or for advice on business support, call 0300 300 1180.

• support towards the wage costs of taking on a Helping Renfrewshire Grow & young Prosper unemployed person; and • loans to help with working capital or the purchase of equipment.

or call

0300 300 1180

Invest’s InCubatees are Announced

D.O.M Art (Dominika Zurawska)

Pea Cooper (Paula Cooper)

We are proud to introduce our Year 1 InCubatees. Thirteen young businesses who demonstrated fantastic innovation, energy and potential to grow, have won places in the InCube’s inaugural year.

Their businesses will get a chance to grow with a year of support that includes accommodation, training and marketing expertise. They have also earned the chance to show case their products on the high street and online.

InCubatees are getting ready to move into their newly refurbished premises at 27 High Street Paisley. Together, they will

Bella Brilla A luxury brand of bridal accessories already beloved by Scottish brides and ready to win hearts and sales in the global marketplace.

Nina Mare Bespoke luxury clothing and tailoring for the fashion-forward younger woman.

Pea Cooper Millinery One of Scotland’s top hat makers offering bespoke designs and looking to launch a brand and hat hire service.

Guitar Slide Ltd A range of unique, precision made guitar accessories that has already won interest in the US. Vonnie Print Designs A glorious range of digitally printed textiles ready sell through independent retailers and online.

Bella Brilla (Kirsteen Connell)

Vonnie Design (Siobhan Gray)

form a community of where enterprise will flourish.

Bob Davidson, Chief Executive of Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce and one of the judges who selected the inaugural InCubatees said: “These businesses will be a great asset to Renfrewshire. We look forward to working with them and are delighted to welcome them to the Chamber of Commerce.”

The InCube is also ready to add its own style to the High Street. Its custom-made window displays are designed to present InCubatees’ products and ideas to town centre pedestrians. The display will change

Subsafe Audio A new product to protect high-value audio speakers at music events.

Subsafe is expected to be a real winner with bands, DJs, venues and event organisers Tatty Rose Beautiful furniture and accessories upcycled with a vintage contemporary twist.

Amy McGregor (Amy Price)

frequently so that passers-by will be able to follow the progress and work of the InCube community.

Councillor Mark Macmillan, Leader of Renfrewshire Council, welcomed the businesses to the InCube: “They embody many of the values that are most important to Renfrewshire’s growth and most integral to our character; enterprise, commitment to community and the ability to innovate. These qualities built Renfrewshire’s success and that will power our 21st Century achievements. I wish InCube and all young businesses every success.”

Treetops Boutique A range of fashionable clothes for fashion-conscious children. Treetop is ready sell online and through retailers.

Amy McGregor Designing luxury textiles for home furnishings, accessories and fashion with products already available online.

Pop Up! Scotland An innovative social enterprise that produces unique exhibition, events and workshops in all creative areas.

Knit Knax A new retail concept for Johnstone.

Knit Knax will sell wool, gifts and haberdashery and offer a lessons and a social space for those with an interest in crafts.

D.O.M. Art A fine artist with a business concept that includes art classes for people of all ages and at all levels.

RAMH Lifeskills High quality repairs and upcycling with funds reinvested in local mental health services.

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Business Matters Summer 2015

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Renfrewshire Council Updates: PTCHAS

Paisley Museum & Library

The Paisley Town Centre Heritage Asset Strategy (PTCHAS) is the ambitious set of proposals designed to use Paisley’s culture and heritage to transform the area’s future over the next decade.

Paisley has a unique story to tell as the home of the Paisley Pattern and the onetime centre of the world’s textile industry – PTCHAS aims to retell that story to the world.

It aims to use Paisley’s thriving cultural scene and internationally-significant heritage assets to drive a series of major regeneration projects and establish the town as tourist destination.

The strategy was unveiled one year ago and since then the council and its partners have been busy behind the scenes on a number of major inter-related long-term projects...

UK City of Culture bid Paisley is bidding to be UK City of Culture in 2021. Bids are due to be lodged in April 2017, and the next year will see the council and key partners pull the bid submission together.

If successful, we will follow Hull (2017) and Derry (2013) and would be the first place in Scotland to hold the title (although Paisley is not a city, the competition is open to large towns).

UK City of Culture status would

turbocharge the regeneration process and put Paisley’s name on the international map – but we plan to deliver on PTCHAS whether the town wins the title or not.

Paisley Museum revamp The flagship project of PTCHAS is the proposed multi-million-pound work to extend Paisley Museum and turn it into a national museum of textile and costume.

It is hoped the completed museum would attract more than 200,000 visitors per year and would act as the hub of a new west end cultural quarter, drawing footfall down the High Street.

A team of consultants with international experience was appointed this year and has now started work on the outline business case for the revamp, due to be complete for 2020.

New museum store Plans are well advanced to create a publicly-accessible museum storage facility in the basement of the former Littlewoods store (now Discount UK).

The project – due to be complete in 2017 – would house the contents of the current museum store in Whitehaugh.

This would bring a large section of vacant High St floorspace back into use and is a great example of how we can diversify our High Street beyond a purely retail offer.

New theatre and cinema plans One of the other key recommendations of PTCHAS was the investigation of new multi-purpose performance space in the town centre.

A group – the Paisley 2021 Community Trust – has been formed to take this forward and recently received a £34,000 council grant to produce a feasibility study into their plans for a new theatre and cinema, which will see them consult local residents and businesses.

Preserving historic buildings Almost £2m of Heritage Lottery Fund money has been set aside for a Townscape Heritage scheme in the area around the High Street, due to run until 2021.

It is expected to include extensive restoration of historic buildings which have fallen into disrepair, as well as a programme of events and engagement.

The new programme would follow on from a similar scheme which has seen £3.5m poured into improving buildings, shopfronts and public spaces in the area around Causeyside Street since 2012.

Elsewhere in the town centre, work will start this summer on the £4m project to bring the A-listed Russell Institute back into use, turning the distinctive former health centre into a skills and employability hub which will bring around 80 new jobs into the town centre by summer 2016.

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

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TOWN CENTRE REGENERATION In addition to the core PTCHAS work, there is a host of other important ongoing regeneration work in the town centre...

Arnotts site Development on the site of Paisley’s former Arnotts store has been ongoing since early 2014 and the first phase will complete this summer when the first residents move into the 31 flats built by Link Housing Group on the corner of Gauze St and Lawn St. The site’s owners – a limited liability partnership made up of the council and Park Lane Developments – are taking forward development in the listed frontage on Gauze St, comprising a commercial unit on the ground floor and 11 luxury apartments on the upper floors, on sale this summer.

night-time economy.

By letting cars and use taxis use the High Street between 6.30pm and 6.30am, it is hoped to create a shared surface offering the best of both worlds – a pedestrianised shopping area during the day, and the opening up of the town’s main road artery to allow easier access by night.

High Street opening This summer will see traffic return to Paisley High Street for the first time almost 20 years as part of an experimental traffic order aimed at stimulating the

City Deal Renfrewshire is one of eight councils signed up to the £1.13bn Glasgow and Clyde Valley City Deal – a series of major infrastructure and employability

SPT investment Strathclyde Partnership for Transport is investing around £1.8m in improved bus infrastructure in Paisley town centre, with work running from June until October.

The work will focus on the area around the Piazza – Gauze St, Smithhills St and St Mirren Brae – and will see new kerbs and shelters plus bus bay improvements.

There will be some disruption and diversions for bus users as part of this work, and businesses and bus users will be notified in more detail by the contractors and bus operators.

projects funded by the UK and Scottish Governments and councils themselves – which will create jobs and provide spin-off benefits for town centre trade.

Three City Deal projects, with a combined spend of £274m, will take place in Renfrewshire – an airport access project connecting the airport with Glasgow Central and Paisley Gilmour Street stations; a new bridge over the Clyde from Renfrew to Yoker; and a Glasgow Airport Investment Area.

Town centre Wednesdays Teams of young people are being trained in environmental work by staff from the council’s Community Resources department as part of a traineeship scheme Their traineeships will include one day a week (Wednesdays) spent out and about in Paisley town centre working on environmental and street cleaning work which goes over and above that already provided by council staff.

This means the young people will improve their employability while helping to improve the appearance of the town centre for residents, visitors and businesses.

TOWN CENTRE EVENTS Renfrewshire already has a busy programme of town centre events, with established crowd-pullers such as the annual Paisley Christmas Lights Switchon, and the Monte Carlo Classic Car Rally.

As we move towards City of Culture bid, expect to see that programme expanded even further. Here is some of what is happening this year...

• 29 June – Mission Discovery week – a series of free public events to celebrate arrival of space school for local pupils, including film showings and public talk from an ex-NASA astronaut • 4 July – Sma’ Shot Day – one of the oldest workers’ festivals in the world and an event unique to Paisley, this year’s will be bigger and better than ever before • 12 July – British Cycling National Youth Circuit Championship – for the first time in Scotland, see cycling’s stars of tomorrow race on a closed circuit round Paisley town centre • 18 July – Paisley Pipe Band Championships – now in its sixth year, some of the top bands from Scotland and beyond compete in the town centre • 31 August – Paisley 10k and fun run – more than 1,500 runners start and finish in the town centre in this ever-popular event • 6/7 September – Doors Open Days

– your chance to get into buildings... venues across Renfrewshire open their doors for a look inside • 9 to 17 October – The Spree – Paisley’s national arts festival is back for another year. Expect nine days of top-notch music, comedy and more in various venues, including the iconic Spiegeltent in County Square. The bill will be announced over the summer, see www.thespree.co.uk • 31 October – Paisley Halloween Festival – back for a second year, expect spooky goings-on and an extravaganza of light and dark • 7 November – Paisley Fireworks Spectacular – an ever-popular and wellattended family favourite, in the heart of the town centre • 14 November – Paisley Christmas Lights Switch-on – a full day of festive family fun with big-name entertainment, has previously brought 35,000 people into the town

Plus, there’s always loads going on at Paisley Arts Centre and in Renfrewshire’s libraries and museums, with highlights including Back of the Net – a St Mirren fan exhibition at Paisley Museum this July.

Business Matters Summer 2015

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Local businesses urged to have a ball for charity Renfrewshire’s Provost Anne Hall is calling on local businesses to get bighearted for her four local charities.

Businesses have been invited to a special Masquerade charity ball, which will be held on the 11 September in the Normandy Hotel, Renfrew.

The ball, which features live music, great entertainment and a live auction, will raise vital funds for Renfrewshire Carers’ Centre, RAMH (Recovery Across Mental Health) and two hospices – Accord and St Vincent’s – chosen by Provost Hall to feature in a special charity giving scheme during her term as Provost.

Tickets cost £600 for a table of ten and include a pre-dinner drinks reception, a three course dinner and a bottle of wine per couple. All money raised will be split equally between the four charities.

Provost Hall said: “Businesses in Renfrewshire have been really supportive of my charity fundraising scheme and I hope they will continue to support me in my aim to raise much needed funds for my chosen charities.

“Last year’s charity ball was one to remember with great entertainment and I’m aiming to make this one just as memorable.

“The theme this year is Masquerade and we’ll have a group of talented mask-

makers at the event so no one needs miss out on the fun.

“The entertainment will be just as strong, with live music from the Pulse Show Band and the popular live and silent auctions.

“I would encourage businesses to get in touch to find out how they can support four fantastic local charities.”

A grand prize raffle will support the

charity ball, with tickets selling for £1 at charity events throughout the summer.

Top prizes on offer include £1,000 cash, £500 art voucher and a Lenovo laptop.

Ball and raffle tickets can be purchased by calling the Provost’s office on 0141 618 7102.

For more information, visit www. renfrewshire.gov.uk/provostcharity or call 0141 618 6794.

Provost Hall goes sky-high for latest charity stunt Renfrewshire’s Provost Anne Hall is urging local people to go sky-high in her latest charity feat.

Proving the sky is the limit for a second time, Provost Hall will take part in a special skydive to raise vital funds for her chosen charities.

And she’s looking for as many bighearted people as possible to join her in the charitable crusade.

Strapped to a qualified instructor, each skydiver will jump from up to 10,000ft, experiencing 30 seconds of free-fall at around 120 miles per hour.

The parachute will be deployed by the instructor at 5,000ft.

Participants are asked to raise a minimum of £500 in sponsorship to take part and must be aged 18 or over.

Provost Hall said: “Since the wing-walk last year, I have caught the daredevil bug. So when I was asked what I would

like to do next, I could think of nothing better than doing a skydive.

“The wing-walk raised over £5,000 for armed forces charity Help for Heroes, so I hope to raise just as much money for the local charities I support.

“I would urge anyone who is interested in taking part to get in touch.”

The money raised will be shared equally among the four charities Renfrewshire Carers’ Centre, RAMH (Recovery Across Mental Health) and two hospices – Accord and St Vincent’s – chosen by Provost Hall to feature in a special charity giving scheme during her

term as Provost.

The event, which is being organised by Skydive St Andrews, will take place on Friday 28 August.

To register for the skydive or to sponsor the charity event, call 0141 618 6794.

For more information, visit www. renfrewshire.gov.uk/provostcharity.

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

39

CANADIAN AIRLINE LAUNCHES FIRST UK ROUTE FROM GLASGOW AIRPORT Glasgow Airport has further strengthened its long haul connectivity with North America after Canadian airline WestJet launched its daily, direct service to Halifax, Nova Scotia on 30 May. It is the first time the airline has served an airport in the UK and it is only its second transatlantic service following the launch in 2014 of direct flights to Dublin. A host of dignitaries including the Premier of Nova Scotia, the Canadian High Commissioner to the UK and the Major of Halifax were on-hand at Glasgow Airport to wave off the inaugural flight.

The busy Atlantic seaport of Halifax is the capital of the Canadian province of Nova Scotia which has strong historic and cultural links with Scotland. In recognition of the close ties, WestJet has numbered the Glasgow flight WS 30 in honour of St Andrew’s Day which falls on 30 November.

It has also commissioned a WestJet tartan which will adorn the tail of its Boeing NextGeneration 737-700 aircraft that will operate on the route.

Canada is Glasgow’s third largest international market with 37,000 trips made

each year by Canadian visitors who generate £12 million for the city’s economy. The route is also expected to prove extremely popular with Scottish passengers.

Amanda McMillan, managing director of Glasgow Airport, said: “To be able to welcome an airline such as WestJet is fantastic news for the airport and our customers. We have always been proud of our long haul connectivity and WestJet, which has an extensive route network throughout North America, will play an important role in strengthening the already close relationship between

Scotland and Canada. It is important for Glasgow’s and Scotland’s tourism industry that we have direct links such as this.

Not only will it bring tens of thousands of visitors to our shores, it will provide Scottish passengers with an opportunity to visit a beautiful part of the world with which we share such strong cultural and historical ties.”

The new WestJet service is one of a long list of new routes launched at Glasgow Airport this summer, including direct flights to Las Vegas, Prague, Budapest, Carcassonne and Prague.

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Business Matters Summer 2015

40

Cofficient Ltd Implements NetSuite for Calnex Solutions Ltd Cofficient, one of the UK’s longest standing NetSuite partners, have today announced completion of implementation services of NetSuite MME into Calnex Solutions Ltd. Based in Linlithgow near Edinburgh, Calnex Solutions is the world-leader in test and measurement solutions for synchronisation of telecommunication networks.

As a growing organisation Calnex Solutions has recognised the need to move to a more streamlined system which could consolidate business processes and enable better financial management and decision making. Prior to the implementation of NetSuite, Calnex Solutions had been using a mixture of Sage and Excel to cope with financial management and order fulfilmentt. This home grown solution had evolved to manage data in multiple sources and duplicated effort.

Recognising the risk this carried and the limitations it would place on growth, Calnex Solutions took the decision to implement NetSuite which gives them access to real time information such as stock levels, income statements, balance sheets and commissions.

“We chose NetSuite because it offers the kind of business intelligence we used to work for hours to get, but at the touch of a button. We have gained more insight into our business and look forward to the next stage of our growth”, says Ger Kirk Operations Director. Of Cofficient Ger states, “The process of implementing new software has forced us to streamline our processes and given us an insight into what impact a more efficient way of working might have on our bottom line.

We chose to work with Cofficient because of their wide commercial experience as well their knowledge of NetSuite

Paul Grant, Paul Tindal, Flavio Graser, Emma Stewart

implementations. Knowing that Cofficient have been implementing NetSuite for over 8 years gave us comfort that we were in safe hands.”

Paul Grant – Director at Cofficient – commented: “Calnex Solutions is a great example of a growing Scottish exporter.

It is always a privilege to be involved in any part of a company’s growth plan.

Implementing new software is always a big step for any company of any size and the management team at Calnex embraced the change. We look forward to supporting them with their continued growth over the coming months and years.”

Emma Stewart is Sales & Marketing Director at Cofficient, the business enabling specialists.

For further information, contact Cofficient Ltd, Hillington Innovation Centre, 1 Ainslie Road, Glasgow G52 4RU. T: 0845 6439 126. E: info@cofficient.co.uk.

The 5 Ferry Challenge - Saturday 22 August 2015 The 5 Ferry Challenge is an exciting journey through some of Scotland’s most breath taking scenery. It incorporates 4 cycle sections and 5 ferry crossing in and around North Kintyre and the Firth of Clyde.

Dreamt up 10 years ago by Cofficient Director, Paul Grant (and a few pals over a few pints!), it was originally conceived to see if it would be possible to cycle a circular route around the west coast of Scotland taking in as much of the sea and scenery within one day. The result was the 5 Ferry Challenge. It’s pretty much become an annual social outing which has grown year on year from a few pals to “friends of friends” pitching up through word of mouth.

As it’s captured people’s imagination, the event has been put to charitable use. It’s been a pleasure working with the team at the Prince

and Princess of Wales Hospice in Glasgow. Now Cofficient are proud to sponsor an Accountants 5 Ferry Challenge in aid of Scottish Autism which will take place on Saturday 22 August 2015.

“I thought I’d go back to my roots”, said Paul Grant who is a Chartered Accountant by trade, “having trained as an accountant and worked in accountancy firms, I know how this industry loves a challenge. And the 5 Ferry’s is certainly a challenge. I want to put out a call to action to see if any of the leading accountancy firms out there are brave enough to pit themselves against each other.”

For further information on when and how to get involved or to enter a team go to http://www.5ferrychallenge.com/register-foran-event.html

Paul Grant

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

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Business Matters Summer 2015

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Play your cards right Rewarding staff for their efforts and going beyond the call of duty is a great way of encouraging them to keep up the good work. And there’s nothing better to keep the customer satisfied - and getting their repeat business than rewarding them for their loyalty.

But what little extra can you give staff, or customers as an incentive to make them feel valued? The answer’s quite simple – a gift card from intu Braehead.

That way, your staff and customers can chose to buy something they really want and need from a huge range of stores, restaurants and leisure activities; from shoes to sushi and even skiing.

And the appreciation of your gesture continues long after you present them with the gift card because when staff and customers go to spend their gift cards, your generosity will be at the forefront of their minds.

You can buy the gift cards in the centre or online and payment can be made using credit/debit card, or by bank transfer.

General manager for intu Braehead, Gary Turnbull said: “Using our gift cards couldn’t easier for businesses.

“We manage the fulfilment of your order and can even help promote your business by enclosing your literature, or personalised messages to the recipients, if you don’t want to present the cards personally.

“After placing your order our account management screen provides you with order tracking facilities, a complete history of your purchases and the ability to reprint invoices.

“You can also check the balance and activate any cards ordered online giving you the flexibility to order in bulk and distribute the gifts as you need to.

“We offer a range of delivery options that you can select depending on the urgency, value, and number of gift cards in your order. For orders placed before 11am we will aim to ship on the same day.” www.intu.com/braehead

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The intu Braehead Gift Card When it comes to rewarding your staff, the sky’s the limit To find out more visit intu.co.uk/braehead MasterCard is a registered trademark of MasterCard International Incorporated. The intu Braehead Prepaid MasterCard® Gift Card is issued by Wirecard Card Solutions Ltd (“WDCS”) pursuant to licence by MasterCard International Inc. The card operates on a limited network and as such is not regulated under e-money regulations.

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

Bright Future For Gleddoch Gleddoch, the baronial mansion and one-time family seat of Sir William Lithgow was converted into a luxury hotel in the 1970’s, and has seen extensive expansion and development over the years.

As well as an 18-hole championship golf course, the four-hundred acre resort also features 75 bedrooms and an Elemis Spa. The resort has recently changed hands and is undergoing an extensive program of refurbishment and renovation which is due for completion in early 2016.

Director of Gleddoch, Harjeet Johal, explains their plans for the property: ‘the hotel has had such an illustrious history, and it is our firm intention to not only restore its landmark features, but also to create a hotel for today’s Scotland known for its design, character, passion and service. We are so very proud to be able to lead Gleddoch into its renaissance.’

For any further information please contact Chris Davis, Head of Sales at chris@gleddoch.com.

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Business Matters Summer 2015

‘Brand’ New Masters on offer at University of the West of Scotland’s Paisley Campus The words ‘brands’ and ‘branding’ have become almost as common as the word ‘marketing’ in business, and indeed American marketing gurus such as Sidney Levy and Philip Kotler have been arguing for many years about which should take precedence in business.

Given its importance in business practice it is strange that there are no Masters in Branding offered at any University in Scotland. Until now that is.

UWS has just launched an MSc in Creative Branding, commencing in September. The Programme Leader, Dr Lorna Stevens, thinks that the time is right

to offer a Masters in this innovative area that is applicable across so many fields.

The emphasis on the creative aspects of branding is also unique in the UK, she observes, as most Masters on branding tend to focus on brand management, rather than on the creative adaptability needed to succeed.

The programme will be delivered using innovative teaching methods that combine video lectures, conversations with leading academics and brand practitioners, and interactive workshops in new learning suites at the Paisley campus that provide an ideal creative space for students.

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Lorna Stevens

Assessments focus on live case studies, with guest lectures and masterclasses provided by experts in the field.

It will offer three pathways, including a part time option that is designed for students who are currently employed in the branding and/or marketing sector.

Students complete one third of the programme in the workplace, with the remaining modules delivered via a blended learning approach designed for maximum flexibility.

For more information contact Lorna Stevens @ lorna.stevens@uws.ac.uk or telephone 0141 8483368.

UNIVERSITY OF THE WEST OF SCOTLAND IS A REGISTERED SCOTTISH CHARITY. CHARITY NUMBER SC002520.

44

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

EDU CATION SC O T LA ND HMIE SC HO O L IN S P E C T I O N R EP O R T, AP R I L 2 0 1 2

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Business Matters Summer 2015

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UWS led study to aid UK’s flood response UWS recently headed up a national collaborative project, which is set to aid the UK’s flood response and in turn reduce the impact of flooding.

This £50,000 project, which ran until 30 April 2015 and was funded by Research Council UK’s Digital Economy Theme (Sustainable Society Network+), came in response to the fact that the incidence of flood events in the UK has increased as a consequence of climate change.

Flood events cause serious disruption, enormous financial costs and, in some cases, loss of life.

The six month project, which was headed up by Dr Chunbo Luo and Dr James Nightingale of University of the West of Scotland’s School of Computing, comprised five projects partners and two advisory board members spanning the UK. This multi-agency study saw the investigation of suitable Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) for flooding disaster management; the preliminary

development of an experimental UAV platform; and the development of visual and infrared imagery technologies for use on UAVs during flooding.

The development of a flood response system, based on innovative remote sensing, communications networking and cloud computing technologies could have massive benefits not just for society, but also the wider UK economy, by improving the response rate to floods and in turn significantly reducing the devastating impact floods can have.

Employing the use across the UK of UAV technology developed in this project would enable relevant agencies including the Natural Environment Research Council’s Centre for Ecology & Hydrology (NERC CEH), the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA), local authorities, utilities companies and emergency responders to gather their own real-time data and imagery and transmit it electronically to a central

processing and dissemination platform.

A central platform, which is at the preliminary stages of its development as part of this project, would in real time, collate, verify and process incoming data against flood models and infrastructure maps to disseminate a common view of the unfolding situation to all agencies, greatly benefiting both incident managers and responders on the ground.

Dr Luo of UWS said: “The system proposed as a result of this project would have substantial societal impact by facilitating a faster, better co-ordinated response to flood events. In the longer term, data collected and processed by this system would lead to improved flood models and help to inform future flood prevention strategies.

“We are looking to build on the outcomes of this study and secure additional funding to further develop the successes to create an integrated flooding management system.”

QAA quality mark for UWS The Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) has confirmed the quality and standards of provision at University of the West of Scotland following its review in December 2014.

A team of QAA reviewers visited UWS and judged that it has effective arrangements for managing academic standards and enhancing the student learning experience.

The review identified a number of examples of good practice. These include: • the well-established relationships with schools and colleges that help students from non-traditional backgrounds make a successful

transition to the University • the development of a culture of personalised learning support for students in which a range of activities are undertaken to help improve student progression, retention and engagement.

Professor Malcolm Foley, VicePrincipal and Pro Vice-Chancellor (Education) at the University of the West of Scotland (UWS), said: “We are delighted that the quality of our learning and teaching has been recognised by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education in its recent Enhancement-led Institutional Review (ELIR). The University is committed to providing student-

centred, personalised and distinctive learning and teaching experiences underpinned by professionally relevant research, knowledge exchange and enterprise.

“It is particularly pleasing that this review highlighted the support that we provide our students to help them reach their full potential – at UWS we are extremely proud of the positive and encouraging learning environments on all of our campuses throughout Scotland.”

A successful review means that UWS can display the QAA Quality Mark, indicating to UK and international students that the University meets national requirements for standards and quality.

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

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UWS exploring partnership opportunities with leading US regional university Representatives of the University of Wisconsin Platteville (UW-Platteville) in the US undertook a three-day visit to University of the West of Scotland recently to share best practice and discuss areas of potential partnership working.

UW-Platteville, which has been excelling in education for almost 150 years, is one of the United States of America’s leading regional universities.

This visit, which ran from Tuesday 17 to Thursday 19 March 2015, built on an initial trip last year by representatives of UWS to UW-Platteville.

Both universities share a number of similarities in terms of curriculum, student population, and approach to learning and teaching. This visit saw both UWS and UW-Platteville further explore possible opportunities for partnership working.

UWS and UW-Platteville are currently investigating the possibility of online collaboration where students in Scotland and USA could collaborate digitally on joint projects, which in turn may lead

to opportunities for student from both institutions to study at the partner university.

UW-Platteville has an excellent ‘development’ function, which encompasses sponsorship, alumni, and fundraising and this visit saw UWS learn more about their approach in this important area.

“We are very excited about fostering a long term relationship with University of the West of Scotland. This interinstitutional collaboration will benefit students, faculty, and our local communities as well as promote international understanding,” said Dennis Shields, Chancellor, University of Wisconsin-Platteville.

UWS prides itself on being a truly international university, which advances diversity, promotes global citizenship and provides a springboard for all learners to contribute both locally and internationally.

Professor Craig Mahoney, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of UWS, said: “We were delighted to welcome Dennis and

his colleagues to UWS. Our universities share similarities and this visit has afforded us with an invaluable opportunity to discuss both approaches to higher education and to identify areas of joint working that will be mutually beneficial.”

UWS Business Society Paisley “Bridging the gap between education and career opportunities” Our student led business society was set up in 2015, for students of UWS, with the intention of supporting and assisting students throughout their time at university by providing them with opportunities which will help to enhance their student experience, learning and engagement.

This is achieved by sharing and discussing ideas in areas which we believe will help our students feel more confident about entering into a career. It allowed us to identify activities students felt that they could benefit from, which will strengthen their knowledge of being an employee. From this we devised a list of activities which will help students to gain further insight.

Our students want to stand out from the crowd and recognise that taking part

in business activities such as; attending networking events, conferences, business lunches & seminars, will allow them to develop a network of professionals and gain a better understanding of what employers are looking for as well as gaining invaluable experiences.

We are always looking for volunteer companies and professionals to come on campus and speak with our students, allowing students to understand the reality of businesses and what is required of them by an employer, providing a greater knowledge of that particular line of work. We are also working on setting up visits into organisations to look at what goes on behind the scenes.

Our aim for the new trimester is to grow the society, increase activity, set up fundraising events, half of which will go

to charity, Improve employability and give students a memorable and fun experience at UWS. Facebook: UWS Business Society Paisley Twitter: @UWSSocPaisley LinkedIn: Linda McFadden

Business Matters Summer 2015

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20 years’ service recognised Bob Davidson left, presenting Quaich to Hunter Wilson

Bob Davidson, the chamber CEO was recently voted in as Chair of Young Enterprise Area Board for Renfrewshire, East Ren & Inverclyde.

One of Bob’s first jobs was to thank long standing board member Hunter Wilson who recently retired from the Board after 2 decades of involvement with Young Enterprise.

The Board presented Hunter with a special engraved Quaich and a restaurant voucher. Bob commented “Hunter will be greatly missed by all involved in the Company Programme… he is a first class gentlemen who devoted a huge amount of his time as a volunteer to helping young people understand what business is all about”.

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

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Steven is fast climbing the ladder of his new career– It all started with passion and a Modern Apprenticeship Having worked as a chef for a decade, 36 year-old Steven McFadyen from Paisley felt it was time for a career change. He secured a job as an Associate Manufacturing Technician for Life Technologies, which sparked his interest in science.

“Being involved in the production of products that can improve people lives is empowering and fascinating which is why I wanted to find out the reasoning and the science behind it all.”

To do so, Steven embarked on a Level 2 Modern Apprenticeship (MA) in Life Sciences, with the support of his employer. He then progressed to Level 3 MA – HNC in Applied Science. This was quite a challenge for a father of four, juggling full-time work, study and family life.

“It was a big challenge but the commitment and passion for science of my lecturer at West College Scotland rubbed off on me. It gave me the drive that I needed and kept me on track.”

Since gaining his HNC, Steven’s career has gone from strength to strength. He is now a Senior Scientific Manufacturing Technician for Thermo Fisher Scientific. The global biotechnology company has selected him to be part of its new 12 million pounds AGT facility and made him the editor of its newsletter where he has written several product awareness articles.

Steven McFadyen is a finalist in the Renfrewshire Apprentice of the Year Award.

Gaining my “qualification has definitely

given me an advantage.

It’s been recognised by my employers and has allowed me to progress to where I am today.

At West College Scotland we know how important it is for modern businesses to keep their staff well-trained and properly qualified.

Our Modern Apprenticeship (MA) programmes allow employees to undertake work-based training, thereby effectively developing the skills they need to perform and progress.

What’s in it for you?

Develop and maintain a highly-skilled workforce, giving your business a competitive edge Provide training with increased flexibility to meet your business needs Design clear career paths for your employees and improve employee retention

What’s in it for your employees?

Get the opportunity to further their career Access to training with flexibility to suit their work and personal needs Increase their motivation, skills and confidence Benefit from funding opportunities (available to 16-25 year olds in employment and over 25s working in key sector areas)

To find out more about our wide range of MA programmes, visit www.westcollegescotland.ac.uk/training-for-business

corporate@wcs.ac.uk

0141 951 7570

PICTURED: Steven McFadyen

“

Steven McFadyen

Business Matters Summer 2015

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School updates: Arkleston Primary

P7 children have been very busy working with Alan de Pellette from Aficionado Films to write scripts and film their own movies based on the novel ‘Divided City’ by Theresa Bresland.

The novel deals with anti-sectarian issues and the children used drama to reflect on this issue and the impact that it has on a community. Alan took them through the process of scripting and dramatising the themes in the novel and these were then filmed.

Parents were invited along to a showcase event at the school to watch the movies and Oscars were presented to the children for their hard work and efforts.

The project has been the springboard

for the children to develop further their understanding of sectarian issues within their community and they are now working to take this message out to parents and wider within the authority. They met with a representative from Education to discuss their thoughts and have been invited to write to the director. They also have plans to write to their local councillors and to build stronger links with St James’ Primary in Renfrew. The are creating a leaflet for children and parents which they hope to have ready later in the session, which will be shared with the community.

They are very passionate about the work they are doing and are applying for accreditation from Nil by Mouth for their work in raising the profile of this issue.

Brediland Primary School The children of Brediland ACE Base are running a superb social enterprise to support other children and the staff who work with children, with social, emotional and behavioural needs.

PELiCAN, a support site for staff was started by the head teacher, Mrs MarieClaire Temple. PELiCAN, (Personalise the Environment for Learning if the Child has Additional Needs) aims to provide advice and share experiences among staff faced with supporting children with extreme behaviour.

The social enterprise aims to raise the profile of the PELiCAN rationale that it is the role of adults in education to ensure that they have the knowledge, skills and resources to support children effectively.

The children are presenting to adults, making and selling items with the PELiCAN logo to raise awareness and will be giving talks about their experiences to increase the understanding of their needs.

Gryffe High School The school was invited to send a group to the B2B event organised

by Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce. S3 Business students, who have chosen to study Business Management in S4, went along to the Lagoon in Paisley on Thursday 14 May. This event brings together a number of different businesses. There were seminars covering eg ‘Innovation in the Workplace - What does the future look like in your business, and are you ready for it?’.

This was delivered by Microsoft. There was City Deal – the £1.13Bn initiative and what it means for Renfrewshire.

‘Innovation and creativity in business’ by the University of the West of Scotland and a session packed with practical tips on how to get business from social media by Broadcaster and journalist Colin Kelly.

Here is a summary of what the group thought: ‘I found this event useful because I learned a lot about different businesses in Paisley, and also got some ideas for work experience.

I also got to write things in my ROA booklet which involved what we we were recording eg ‘literacy skills’ because we learned some new words about business and also ‘communication skills’ when talking to business owners and representatives. Also there were some opportunities for us to volunteer for organisations such as St Vincent’s

Hospice and Alzheimer’s Scotland. Even someone who was with me managed to make a contact for work experience from this conference.’

Attending were - Cameron Baird, Amy Cooper, Sarah Fogarty, Emily Jackson, Holly Stephen, Daniel Lockie, Hannah Newlands, and Matthew Waddell (All S3)

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

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Inchinnan Primary School At Inchinnan Primary we recently held our second World of Work Week. The children had a great time learning about a variety of jobs and careers.

Every class visited a local business including hp Erskine and Braehead.

Primary 6 and 7 had a day of work experience, either at work with their parents or at West College.

We were very lucky to have a variety of in-school workshops for pupils which were delivered by a variety of people, including parents. They included a Wind Far Engineer, Midwife, Chamber of Commerce staff and a hairdresser.

Workshops included Rolls Royce, Construction Skills for P5-7 building Lego towers and a giant tetrahedron.

Visits from the Fire Service and the Police were popular amongst the younger pupils, particularly getting to sit in the vehicles and operate the sirens.

It was a great week, really focusing on developing skills for life, learning and work.

Primary 5-7 pupils at Inchinnan Primary worked on a joint Enterprise project from January to March, they planned and prepared the show ‘Treasure Island’.

They worked in Enterprise teams – Sales and Merchandise, Market Research, Advertising, Finance, Wardrobe and Props. These teams worked together to plan all aspects of the show, this included market research surveys of parents and pupils, making and selling t

Kirklandneuk Primary School The Primary 7 Kickstart team at Kirklandneuk Primary organised and delivered a fantastic whole school sponsored event during the month of May. As part of the Health Calendar target of fitness month, they really tested their fitness levels, running 14 classes across two days from 9am to 3pm.

We were delighted with the enthusiasm of over 400 of our pupils who participated in our energetic Kickstart classes. It was great to see so many of our parents come along to exercise along with their children and support our fund-raising event.

The feedback from the children was very positive and the pupils enjoyed our circuit training, developing their personal fitness.

We are very grateful to all who collected sponsors to help raise funds for our school. The pupils wanted to give something back to their school, before venturing to pastures new in August. Well done P7!

Linwood High School at the Conference Linwood Pupils thoroughly enjoyed the B2B Event and RoCCo Conference especially the inspirational talk from Bruce Walker. Thank you to the stall holders at the B2B Event for their patience talking to our young people.

shirts, organising props and scenery. In addition to this the children performed the show to a sell out Park Mains Assembly Hall. The project made a £600 profit which the children have decided to share amongst the classes in the school for wet play games. The children grasped a real understanding of how a business is organised and run and also developed skills in performance through the show.

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