Business Matters Summer 2016

Business

Matters SUMMER 2016 EDITION

HELPING RENFREWSHIRE GROW & PROSPER

Paisley 2021 is National Cultural Stage INSIDE: B2B, Tourism & Leisure, Biz Support & Finance, Education, Training & Development, Council & Member updates and lots more...

Business Matters Summer 2016

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President’s Welcome

Welcome to the summer issue of Business Matters Magazine.

Following the result of the EU Referendum on 23rd June your Chamber has been working closely with both Scottish and UK Governments to ensure the views of our members are heard and I would like to update you on our recent activity. In collaboration with Scottish Chambers of Commerce we have attended a number of high level discussions with the Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Keith Brown MSP, a business roundtable with Secretary of State for Scotland, David Mundell MP and an EU Business Summit hosted by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon.

Through our network at British Chambers of Commerce we have fed into further round table discussions at Westminster with Secretary of State for Business, Innovation & Skills Sajid Javid MP. Your chamber considers this engagement to be fundamental to the development of a successful strategy over the coming months.

To date we are encouraged by the level of commitment shown by both the Scottish and Westminster governments to engage with the business community and ensure

the key issues are understood and addressed. Brexit clearly means a period of change and uncertainty, but also one of opportunity and as a chamber we are keen to emphasise that Scotland is still very much open for business.

Paisley2021 continues to build real momentum with a number of significant national events held locally over recent weeks. The SAY Award (Scottish Album of the Year) was held outside Glasgow for the first time ever at Paisley Town Hall and is featured on the front cover of our magazine. The British Pipeband Championships also took place and attracted a record number of entries and spectators. This event will return to Paisley in 2017 & 2018.

Both events reflect the opportunity for Paisley to be a national cultural stage. A yearlong cultural and events program would transform Paisley in the eyes of the UK and beyond.

In addition latest developments on the City Deal can be found on page 41.

Congratulations to Bob Grant who was formally appointed to the role of Chamber Chief Executive in May. I know you will wish Bob and the Chamber team every continued success. Bob recently graduated with

an MBA from University of the West of Scotland. Congratulations also to our management trainee Nicole Cameron who has recently completed her modern apprenticeship and in record time. Well done Nicole and good luck in the next part of your career journey.

As in previous years we do not have any events in July due the summer break however the team are very busy preparing to launch Rocco 2016. Our annual Rocco Awards will open soon for entry and are a great opportunity for you to be recognised for your hard work and accomplishments in the last year. To be nominated and make the shortlist is an achievement in itself –the competition is always fierce and I encourage you all to enter at www.roccoawards.com.

All that remains is for me to wish you an enjoyable summer and trust you have an opportunity of a break with decent weather over that time. Thank you for your continued support and 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 Thanks to all our exhibitors and attendees who came along to Business Matters in Renfrewshire on the 8th of June at the Lagoon, Paisley. We had some great seminar speakers on the day including Gary Ennis from NSDesign and latest developments on Invest in Renfrewshire, Glasgow City Region and Paisley 2021. The Paisley 2021 branding toolkit is now available to download at www. paisley2021.co.uk/get-involved/ I would encourage you all to log on and show your support via your website, email footers and your social media channels, find out what the bid could do for your business and in turn how you can support. We are also delighted to announce Paisley 2021 as Main Sponsor of Rocco 2016, which

will open for entries soon.

No events in July due the summer break and we return on 25th Aug for lunch with Rolls-Royce and on 31st Aug a new free breakfast networking event supported by Hillington Park at the Innovation Centre. Hillington Park have recently broken ground on a new development Evolution Court which is the largest speculative commercial development taking place in Scotland this year. Read more about it on page 22.

On a personal note I am delighted & honoured to be appointed as chief exec on a permanent basis.

By the time you read this the Lions of Pride of Paisley will have been “released” throughout the area. An initiative by Paisley First to encourage visitors to the town with

the largest public arts installation ever in Renfrewshire. Look out for the Chamber’s Lion “Colourful Paisley” painted by Renfrew artist Kevin Cantwell which will be displayed at Central Station from the end of July.

Have a great summer and best regards.

Bob Grant Chief Exec

Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce Bute Court, St Andrews Drive, Glasgow Airport, PA3 2SW t: 0141 847 5450 / f: 0141 847 5499 e: info@renfrewshirechamber.com / w: www.renfrewshirechamber.com Next issue of Business Matters is Autumn 2016.

Deadline for editorial and adverts is 23rd September, issued mid-October 2016.

Advertising & Editorial:

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Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce would like to acknowledge the support of our Premier Partners:

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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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Follow the chamber:

n Mark 4 and Alison Hazell decided to turn their y of home-brewing into a business they sought ort from Business Gateway.

Business Matters Summer 2016

Grow and Prosper with Business Gateway’s Expert Help

d our free business support app.

The team at Air Power & Hydraulics

Business owners in Renfrewshire who want to develop their business can access a range of Business Gateway support designed to accelerate growth.

By accessing the expert advice and support of the Business Gateway team, you can improve in a number of areas including growth strategy, innovation, HR, market development, financial management and business development.

Renfrewshire company Air Power & Hydraulics (APH), was formed in 1964 and began by stocking a range of US manufactured pneumatic equipment.

Four years later APH moved to a factory unit on Hillington Park and began building small power units for

the agriculture industry. In 1972, the company designed its first cylinder and soon Air Power & Hydraulics were creating products including CEPAC subsea cylinders to meet the growing demand of the oil industry.

Since then, the company has become a world leader in manufacturing and has recently sought advice and support from Business Gateway in order to achieve further international growth.

Alex Scott, Project Engineer, Air Power & Hydraulics said: “Business Gateway have engaged with us directly on various areas of our operations. Despite being an established company with over 50 years’ experience, they have opened the

door to some great opportunities for us to understand our business better as well as strengthen our company and brand.”

Graeme Currie of Business Gateway Renfrewshire added: “At Business Gateway we are not only committed to helping businesses get started, but also in supporting and assisting their growth.

Through our expert advice, fully funded workshop programme and knowledge of potential funding avenues, our support can play a huge part in the development of your business.”

To find out how Business Gateway Renfrewshire can help you, visit www. bgateway.com/renfrewshire or call 0141 530 2406.

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

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HOW WE HELPED PAUL to get ahead in the cloud The sky’s the limit for Renfrewshire-based IT specialists, Cofficient, whose cloud computing expertise is in demand.

Launched in 2008 by Paul Tindal, the company is growing rapidly as it bids to become one of the UK’s top practices for cloud delivered Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software solutions.

Business Gateway has worked closely with the company to identify priorities and to develop a strategy for growth. We’ve also helped develop their website and marketing plan and we’re providing ongoing input and access to specialist support as the company grows.

Business Gateway’s support in developing our growth strategy has been invaluable.

Paul Tindal, Cofficient

How we helped: • Strategy development • Website support • Marketing plan • Staff training & development

To grow your business, call 0141 530 2406 or visit bgateway.com/renfrewshire

Business Matters Summer 2016

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RENFREWSHIRE JOBS MARKET DOMINATED BY MEDIUM TO HIGH SECTOR ROLES NAT00205_NW_Lending_Press_Ad_130x180_Pub_&_Bar_AW.indd 1

The medium to high skill jobs sector is supporting Renfrewshire employment growth, according to the latest Royal Bank of Scotland Regional Economic Tracker.

Latest figures reveal that 37,000 posts across Renfrewshire are high skilled – accounting for 43.5% of all roles in the area.

This is followed by 24,900 (29.3%) medium skilled roles and 22,500 (26.4%) low skilled positions.

The report reveals that general employment climbed by 0.7% across Scotland during 2015, with professionals and trade roles offsetting a decline amongst general posts such as retail and contact centre work.

According to the report, medium and high skill growth roles climbed by 1.7% in the 12 months to 2015. This compares to a drop of two per cent across the low skills sector.

The tracker – compiled by the Royal Bank of Scotland’s economics team using Office for National Statistics data - also reveals marked differences across Scotland.

Of the big cities, Edinburgh has the largest proportion of high skilled roles, supporting 131,200 positions, over half the workforce. Glasgow accommodates more low skill level posts than any other area of the country, with 65,100 positions.

Despite such differences, the same issue is influencing

NAT00205_NW_Lending_Press_Ad_130x180_Pub_&_Bar_AW.indd 1

08/03/2016 15:46

the entire jobs market in Scotland according to the bank’s economic team.

Technology is creating more roles within the medium to high sector but is creating a drop-off in low level skills as technology replaces the need for manpower.

Commenting on the figures, Sebastian Burnside of the bank’s economics team, said: “These figures demonstrate the impact of technology on Scotland’s labour market.

“Firms are automating tasks and often replacing lower skilled occupations, something that’s clear to see in retail as the number of check-out staff fall.

“But technology also creates opportunities too and we’re seeing growth where data

Sebastian Burnside of our economics team

is helping generally higher skilled workers take better decisions and be more efficient.”

08/03/2016 15:46

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

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LinkedIn -

What’s It Worth To You? Microsoft bought LinkedIn in June for 26 billion dollars, by far the biggest deal in its history.

But what will it mean?

Perhaps the clues lie in the other products under the Microsoft umbrella.

Consider the XBox console.

Might the teenage gamers of the future prepare their career profiles and apply for their first jobs while playing a shoot ‘em up in their bedroom?

Or what about Skype.

You might never again have to physically attend a job interview as your Skype

contacts and LinkedIn connections would synchronise, allowing the recruiter to use your profile as the basis of an interview conducted remotely.

Then there’s PowerPoint, the whole Office mix and enterprise collaboration tool Yammer, all of which have huge potential as mass market e-learning tools - created, shared and perhaps even sold within the LinkedIn network, not to mention the possibilities of integrating all that social “big data” into the ever growing Microsoft Cloud suite.

Cynics say Microsoft is simply buying a giant customer data list and that it intends to promote its own products on its new platform.

Our belief is genuine innovation and integration are ahead that will transform the way we do business. For the first time in years there’s genuine excitement about what Microsoft is doing and companies like Google and Apple needs to raise their game to keep up.

And if you’re on LinkedIn with a half baked profile that doesn’t do you justice...so do you.

Gary Ennis, Founder and Managing Director of NSDesign Ltd

EMBRACE THE SPACE NSDesign help businesses do things better online, from web design and ecommerce, to social media training and consultancy. Their next “Embrace the Space” social media masterclass takes place on the 19th August in Hillington. Come and see how to make LinkedIn work for your business.

More details at www.EmbracetheSpace.co.uk

Business Matters Summer 2016

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Buy to Let: INSPIRING BUSINESS PEOPLE

To Incorporate or not to Incorporate?

Campbell Dallas is one of the most dynamic and progressive firms of independent Chartered Accountants in Scotland. Our clients come in all shapes Recent tax changes are and sizes and so do our disciplines. We set to significantly impacttailor our services and shape them to fit your needs. Ultimately we are focussed the buy to let sector; in on your peace of mind and helping you succeed. particular the restriction of

interest relief on property Aileen Gates related loans. As a resultContact Phone 0141 886 6644 of these changes many Email aileen.gates@campbelldallas.co.uk buy to let investors are asking if incorporation www.campbelldallas.co.uk could mitigate the impact.

Below, I explore the pros and cons of incorporating a rental business.

What are the potential tax advantages of incorporating my buy to let business?

Loan Interest – As indicated in the previous article, from 2017 onwards the deductibility of loan interest against rental profits for individuals will be restricted, with relief only being given at the basicrate from 2020. To put this change into context a landlord (who pays tax at 40%) currently receiving £20,000 of rent with interest costs of £13,000, will pay tax of £2,800 to HMRC leaving the landlord with £4,200 in her pocket. From 2020 the tax charge in this scenario increases to £5,400, an increase of 93%! The net return to the landlord has dropped from 21% to 8%.

The change to interest relief will not apply to companies which will continue to be able to deduct loan interest from rental income when calculating taxable profits.

Corporation Tax - Rental profits arising in the business will be taxed at the corporate rate of 20% rather than income tax rates of up to 45%. Rental profits can be paid out as dividends or reinvested in the company as desired, unlike a sole trade or partnership where all profits arising will be subject to income tax.

Capital Gains Tax (CGT) - When properties held by companies are

Aileen Gates, Partner, Campbell Dallas

disposed of, the resulting capital gain will be taxed at 20%, rather than the 28% rate on residential property disposals faced by higher-rate taxpayers.

Business Risk - A company has limited liability which protects a shareholders personal assets from business risks.

What are the potential issues with incorporating?

The main concern for many when considering incorporation will be the CGT charge triggered by transferring the properties into a company. The taxable gain will be the current market value of the properties less the original cost. In addition, a Land and Buildings Transactions Tax Charge will arise when properties with a combined value exceeding £40,000 are transferred to a company. The 3% LBTT additional dwelling supplement will also apply unless 6 or more properties are transferred together.

Extracting profits from a company via dividends will incur an income tax charge.

However from April 2016 each taxpayer is entitled to an annual £5,000 tax free

dividend allowance.

There will of course be non tax considerations too, such as the need to re-finance on incorporation as the company is a separate legal entity and the cost associated with preparation of annual company accounts etc.

Final Thoughts Although there may potentially be CGT and LBTT charges associated with transferring properties into a new company, for many investors the potential savings once the properties are in the structure will make incorporation beneficial in the long tem. The decision is one of weighing up the short-term costs and the long-term benefits.

Whether incorporation is the best option for you will depend on your personal circumstances and your future intentions and should be discussed with a professional tax adviser.

If you would like to explore this issue further or have any general tax questions, please do not hesitate to contact Aileen Gates at aileen.gates@ campbelldallas.co.uk or telephone us on 0141 886 6644.

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

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Have you been looking for a reliable company for your IT Support?

Live Renfrewshire?

- Experience It All Live Renfrewshire is a website based advertising platform based at www.liverenfrewshire.co.uk.

Aiming to highlight all the amazing things that Renfrewshire can offer to both visitors and residents.

With sections dedicated to weddings, dining, hotels, guest houses, businesses, what’s on and more, Live Renfrewshire is an ideal way for you to keep up to date with what is happening or to advertise your business.

If you are interested in taking an advert with us please contact us on info@liverenfrewshire.co.uk. With adverts as low as £60 for 6 months or £100 for a year Live Renfrewshire offers an affordable and quality value advertising option.

Follow us on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liverenfrewshire/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/LiveRenf

If you are then Lloyd Technology is your answer!

We at Lloyd Technology offer managed support services and solutions that benefit companies of all shapes and sizes throughout Scotland.

We combine our experience with our fantastic team alongside reliable technology in order to deliver IT Support that our clients can count on.

Contact us today to see how we can help you keep your business running smoothly.

We have recently relocated to Merlin House in the Hillington area – Come and see us!

Tel: 0333 311 1002 Email: info@lloydtechnology.com Web: www.lloydtechnology.com

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.

Contact Phone Email

Aileen Gates 0141 886 6644 aileen.gates@campbelldallas.co.uk

www.campbelldallas.co.uk

Business Matters Summer 2016

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Bowfield & Manorview Go From Strength to Strength

Bowfield Hotel & Country Club has recently seen a huge uplift in its fortunes. We have invested almost £500k in badly needed infrastructure and followed this up with £250k in our gym, recently quoted as ‘the best Hotel Gym in Scotland’, and £250k in our changing facilities. If you haven’t seen them, then prepare to be wowed, now is the time to come along for a look and trial.

We have added dedicated spin studio, additional fitness suite, to allow over 40 classes per week included within your membership, including addition of Les Mills classes. A new children’s Fun Factory, catering for Kids Birthday Parties of all ages has also been developed. All this with our extensive state of the art gym, 16 m heated swimming pool, sauna, steam room and Jacuzzi make us the perfect leisure facility. With memberships from only £32 per month and a 20% membership discount for all Chamber members and their employees, contact us

for your free trial now.

Our investment and developments are not stopping, as we begin a refurbishment and development of our bedroom block later this month. Our new bedrooms are due for completion in August 2016, and the developments will continue with new restaurant, new and increased capacity function and meeting space for completion in 2016/17. We will also

be upgrading our busy spa in the near future, with added sauna, whirlpool and relaxation rooms.

Our restaurant is open to all and with 2 courses available from £12.95, along with our extensive menu available 7 days.

There is no need to be a member, but as an added incentive this would give you a further 30% discount off your meals.....

Contact sales@bowfieldhotel.co.uk for accommodation or meeting enquires or members@bowfieldhotel.co.uk for leisure club membership enquiries, or call 01505705225.

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

Enjoy 20% off leisure memberships

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Business Matters Summer 2016

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CONFERTAINMENT

- THE ULTIMATE EXPERIENCE!

Go-karting Arena at the Experience

Looking for the ideal space for your next conference, meeting, workshop or team building event? The Experience in Hillington Park ticks all the boxes. This award-winning venue is located just off the M8, and within a few minutes’ drive from Glasgow Airport. There are excellent transport links to the city centre, and free on-site parking.

The former Rolls-Royce factory has been transformed into a vibrant, exciting leisure venue and is open seven days a week. Already popular with the private, public and voluntary sectors, The Experience has a conference centre with three meeting rooms with capacity for two to 100 delegates, a 90 seater restaurant and smaller breakout rooms all topped off with a party plane and destination lounge for 60 guests! The professional team will work with you to create flexible packages for family fun days, product launches, training courses, team building, AGMs, board meetings,

sales meetings, fundraising events, and social events/parties. Crew training is offered in the Boeing 737 fuselage which is an eye-catching addition to the building’s exterior on Montrose Avenue.

The Experience Conference Centre is housed alongside the exhilarating surroundings of Scotland’s only indoor electric go-karting arena and laser tag.

Delegates will enjoy delicious in-house catering and refreshments from the Academy Restaurant, along with free unlimited Wi-Fi, and full use of AV equipment.

“Confertainment” packages fuse traditional elements of conferences and meetings with the excitement of on-site entertainment including laser tag and Scotland’s only public slot car track offering 140 ft of fun. Go head to head on the race track, or try your hand at a culinary cook-off. The balance of conference and entertainment is up to you, although your staff might have other ideas!

Owned by Kibble, one of Scotland oldest charities, The Experience operates as a social enterprise, providing valuable work experience, training and employment for young people (aged 16+). If you want to make the socially responsible choice - choose The Experience.

Visit www.theexperience.org.uk for details, email events@theexperience. org.uk or call 0141 883 4005.

“The event was excellent, and we have had such positive feedback about it already! You and your team were superb – and really helped make the evening so special.”

Emma McIntyre - Project and Event Manager, Glasgow Film Theatre

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

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Business Matters Summer 2016

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GLASGOW AIRPORT CROWNED BEST AIRPORT IN EUROPE WITH 5-10 MILLION PASSENGERS

Amanda McMillan (left), chief executive of AGS Airports Ltd and managing director of Glasgow Airport, receiving the award from Angela Gittens, Director General ACI World.

Glasgow Airport, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary, has been awarded Airport Council International Europe’s (ACI Europe) prestigious Best Airport Award at a ceremony hosted by Athens International Airport on Tuesday 21 June 2016.

The “Best Airport, 5-10 million passengers” accolade acknowledged Glasgow’s focus on enhancing its facilities, improving the passenger experience and securing a host of new routes and services.

Glasgow beat European airports Naples and Lyon to the title which comes one week after it was crowned Scottish Airport of the Year. Glasgow is also the current holder of the UK Airport of the Year title as well as the Airport Operators Association (AOA) Airport of the Year.

The judging panel for the ACI Europe Best Airport Awards was drawn from a well-respected group of independent

experts including EUROCONTROL, the European Commission, European Civil Aviation Conference (ECAC), European Travel Commission (ETC) and Air Transport World.

In 2015 alone, Glasgow Airport secured 30 new routes and services including direct flights to Halifax, Nova Scotia; Budapest, Prague and Las Vegas. The airport has continued this success into 2016 when it will launch 16 new services.

It will also invest £25M in a series of major infrastructure projects designed to cater for the airport’s unprecedented growth in passenger numbers whilst significantly enhancing the customer experience.

Amanda McMillan, chief executive of AGS Airports Ltd and managing director of Glasgow Airport, said: “We were highly commended at last year’s ACI Europe awards, so to have gone one step further and secured the title of Best Airport in

what is our 50th anniversary is a huge honour. We have worked extremely hard to provide our customers with an ever increasing choice of destinations and have committed significant investment to enhancing our facilities.

“I am immensely proud to receive this award on behalf of the 5,000 people who have achieved so much over the course of the past year and ensured that Glasgow Airport continues to deliver for the city and for Scotland.”

ACI EUROPE is the European region of Airports Council International (ACI), the only worldwide professional association of airport operators. ACI EUROPE represents close to 500 airports in 45 European countries. In 2014, its member airports handled over 90% of commercial air traffic in Europe, welcoming more than 1.8 billion passengers, 18.4 million tonnes of freight and 21.2 million aircraft movements.

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

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Peak Scientific wins brace of Queen’s Awards for Enterprise Peak Scientific, a market leader in laboratory gas generation, is proud to announce that it has been recognised not once but twice in the 2016 Queen’s Awards for Enterprise. The Scottishbased company has been awarded both a Queen’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade and a Queen’s Award for Enterprise in Innovation, decreed by Her Majesty The Queen of Britain, on the recommendation of the Prime Minister, David Cameron. The awards are announced annually on the Queen’s birthday, 21st April.

This is Peak Scientific’s fifth Queen’s Award granted in recognition of the company’s international trade and overseas revenue growth, as well as a first in Innovation, recognising the Peak Protected Complete Service Plan product.

Established in 1997, the company now employs over 360 staff across 20 countries globally, with the majority located at the manufacturing headquarters in Glasgow,

Scotland. Having previously won the same award as recently as 2014 and 2011, this third Queen’s Award for International Trade within five years is a mark of Peak’s remarkable growth and success in developing its business overseas from the Americas through EMEA and into the Far East.

Peak’s co-owner and Managing Director, Robin MacGeachy had this to say about the announcement “To be honoured again by the Queen’s Awards for Enterprise is important to us, as we see it as a public reflection of our philosophy to go that extra mile for all of our customers, both old and new. We’re especially delighted with the recognition for innovation, something that is in our DNA and core of all that we do at Peak, particularly when it comes to service.”

Mr MacGeachy went on to explain the importance of the awards, commenting “The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise mean more to us than other awards not

only due to the prestige and substance, but because they are a rare example of such awards that are internationally recognised and respected globally.”

PROUD TO SERVE SCOTLAND FOR 50 YEARS

Business Matters Summer 2016

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Are your business rates fair?

YOU SHOULD APPEAL YOUR BUSINESS RATES WHEN THEY ARE REVIEWED IN 2017

For further information on our services please contact: T: 0141 333 6575

E: info@businessratesadvice.com

M: 0755 400 9244

W: www.businessratesadvice.com

ARE YOUR BUSINESS RATES FAIR?

If you are a landlord or occupier of commercial property then you may well be paying business rates. There Are yourproperty is to be a nationwide Revaluation of all commercial business rates fair? due on 1 April 2017; you will have a fresh Right of Appeal on the new Assessment.

It is likely you will receive a Valuation Notice with your new Rateable Value Assessment (RV) from September 2016 onwards and ratepayers will be charged approximately 50% of the new YOU SHOULD APPEAL YOUR BUSINESS RV in business rates. The Rates Appeal system is complex,RATES based WHEN THEY ARE around valuation theory and case law. It is therefore REVIEWEDimportant IN 2017 that you seek advice from a Chartered Surveyor with experience of the complexities of the business rates system. There are also a number of Reliefs available which may be beneficial to your business if the RV can be reduced. With the Poundage Rate set to rise over the Foron further next few years, this can also impact theinformation amountonof business our services please contact: rates you pay even if your RV increases only by a relatively small T: 0141be 333 as 6575 amount. Quite simply, your RV should low E:asinfo@businessratesadvice.com possible.

M: 0755 400 9244 W: www.businessratesadvice.com For further information on our services, please contact Craig Maxwell, MRICS at: T: 0141 333 6575 E: info@businessratesadvice.com

ELDERSLIE GOLF CLUB

FOR ALL YOUR BUSINESS GOLF NEEDS Golf Days • Corporate Memberships • Meeting Venue Great value, off-peak memberships available including Corporate options from £175.

Let us host your 2016 golf day.

Great course. Great golf. Good times.

Contact Kelly on 01505 323956 or email secretary@eldersliegolfclub.com 63 Main Road, Elderslie, Renfrewshire PA5 9AZ www.eldersliegolfclub.com

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

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Christoph

Product Specialist

Our Mission is to enable our customers to make the world healthier, cleaner and safer…

Explore our open positions in Renfrewshire region: • Material Handler 35437BR, Inchinnan • Procurement Sourcing Specialist, 33750BR, Inchinnan • Manufacturing Technician, 33070BR, Inchinnan

• Payroll Coordinator, 35044BR, Inchinnan • System Engineer, 32371BR, Inchinnan • Sr. Regulatory Specialist, 23682BR, Inchinnan

Explore our opportunities at jobs.thermofisher.com and join our team.

As the world’s leader in serving science, Thermo Fisher Scientific What is story will you tell? a driving force in the research, healthcare, industrial and applied markets, generating more than $17 billion in annual revenue. Ranked among the top 200 in the U.S. Fortune 500, no other company in our industry can match our range of customer touch points technologically, geographically or commercially.

Above all, we are a team of professionals driven by advancement, innovation and success. Each one of our 50,000 extraordinary minds has a unique story to tell. We share our expertise with customers, helping them to make the world a better place—

whether they’re discovering a cure for cancer, protecting the environment, making sure our food is safe or so much more.

Christoph one of our Product Specialists Work is a Story of Safety, he helps to keep children safe. He explains: ‘The instruments I develop ensure that our customers keep lead out of our kids’ toys. Our instruments also contribute to identifying impurities in drinking water, hazardous elements in cosmetics and many other important applications. If you’re looking for clues to your future, you’ll discover that, at Thermo Fisher Scientific, each one of our 50,000 extraordinary minds has a unique story to tell. And we all contribute to a singular mission—

enabling our customers to make the world healthier, cleaner and safer.’

When you join our team, your work will have real-world impact, and you’ll be supported in achieving your career goals. If you’re ready to advance innovative technologies, develop meaningful solutions and build a rewarding future, tell your own story at Thermo Fisher Scientific.

Explore our open positions in Renfrewshire by visiting jobs. thermofisher.com and join our team.

What story will you tell…..

MY WORK IS A

STORY OF SAFETY. Christoph Product Specialist

Explore our open positions in Renfrewshire region: • Material Handler 35437BR, Inchinnan • Procurement Sourcing Specialist, 33750BR, Inchinnan • Manufacturing Technician, 33070BR, Inchinnan

• Payroll Coordinator, 35044BR, Inchinnan • System Engineer, 32371BR, Inchinnan • Sr. Regulatory Specialist, 23682BR, Inchinnan

Explore our opportunities at jobs.thermofisher.com and join our team.

What story will you tell?

Business Matters Summer 2016

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Largest stock of Outlander PHEV in Scotland available at Phoenix The award-winning Outlander PHEV is an exceptional 4x4 family crossover SUV and an ever popular choice among company car drivers. The PHEV is capable of delivery up to 148MPG; this is due to the combination of electric and petrol power. At Phoenix we are pleased to announce the largest on-site stock of these used vehicles in Scotland.

There is a wide variety of colours and specifications to choose from.

The Outlander PHEV saves 1000s of pounds for company car drivers due to the fact you pay only 7% Benefit in Kind (BIK) tax. In addition the PHEV also qualifies for the Government’s £2,500 plug-in car grant and is also exempt from road tax. This makes it an excellent choice for both employer and employee alike.

Dom D’Agostino, Mitsubishi Paisley

Dealer Principal states, “I am delighted to have such an excellent choice available as it has been such a popular car since its launch and it’s exciting to have so many low mileage models available.

With our exclusive 0% offer available on these vehicles they are sure to be one

of the most popular for us over the next few months.”

We are delighted to have such a large variety of this award winning hybrid vehicle and you can book your visit to come down and see for yourself on 0141 849 5000.

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

19

Pride of Paisley This summer will see some colourful characters onto the streets of Paisley through Paisley First’s “Pride of Paisley” art project, which is the largest, free to view, open air public art trail ever to be staged in Paisley.

Twenty five life sized lions will be positioned at key locations throughout the centre of the town and families and friends are encouraged to visit each individual lion and take the obligatory selfie and post it on Facebook.

Each lion has been painted with a unique design by local and national artists to portray the rich history of the town and Paisley’s ambitions for the future.

Andrew Mitchell, Manager of Paisley First. “All the lions look simply stunning and I am sure that this event will capture the imagination of everyone who sees them, wither your looking for something to do on your lunch break or at the weekend, invite your family and friends to come and fid the lions”.

A wide range of Paisley businesses have stepped up to the plate to support the

Wild in Art Project and every lion has been sponsored, with all profits being divided between Accord Hospice and St Vincent’s Hospice.

The Pride of Paisley’s key sponsors are The Piazza, PACE Theatre Company, Paisley 2021, Renfrewshire Leisure, University of the West of Scotland and the West Scotland College.

Local schools painted have painted and decorated forty mini-lions which will be displayed in shops and businesses Information throughoutFor theMore town for the duration of the project and they will formulate an additional “mini lion” trail..

prideofpaisley

PRIDE O PAISLE

Trail maps and online information is available from www.prideofpaisley.com.

There will be launch event in County Square on the 9th July starting at 11am, with a performance by PACE, live music

by Loud and Proud, street acrobats, stilt HITS THE STR walkers and free giveaways.

Whilst looking for the lions throughout 9TH JULY – our historic town you can also enjoy SEPTEMBER Paisley’s rich heritage and architecture and some of the fantastic buildings within the town.

FOLLOW PAISL Ian Henderson, Chairman of Paisley First said “I am sure that everyone will FREE, FA enjoy the trail and we areFRIENDLY looking PUBLIC forward to a successful project which TRAIL will increase footfall and spend in the THIS SUM town over the summer, provide local businesses with opportunities to secure new customers, support local charities and lend support to the Paisley 2021 bid’. supporting On completion of the project the lions will be auctioned off during a charity dinner to be staged at the Normandy Hotel in October with proceeds going to the two hospices.

prideofpaisley

www.prideofpaisley.

PRIDE OF PAISLEY HITS THE STREETS 9TH JULY – 25TH SEPTEMBER 2016 FOLLOW PAISLEY’S FREE, FAMILY FRIENDLY PUBLIC ART TRAIL THIS SUMMER

supporting

For More Information prideofpaisley

prideofpaisley

www.prideofpaisley.co.uk

EK man makes go Put home and business security high on your 2016 EK manMatters makes good Business Summer 2016 electrical firm previously known as Bell Alarms Paisley Ltd and NSI (NACOSS) and SELECT accredited, can trace its roots back to 1919 and has recently had investment to Your probably hearing about lots of New Year’s expand and strengthen its offering resolutions like losing a few pounds from festive across Scotland. indulgences, making 2016 the year people promiseDouglas Johnston, from East to get fit, new or renewed ADVERTORIAL

20

to develop the business Gavin Bell, the grandso original founder Joseph Be very much part of the busi is delighted that Douglas is to expand the business to even more intruder ala electrical services to custo Sponsors of the East Kilb

Put home and business security high on your 2016 priorities Your probably hearing about lots of New Year’s resolutions like losing a few pounds from festive indulgences, making 2016 the year people promise to get fit, new or renewed focus on career changes and many more.

Yet, how many of you will make 2016 the year you put home or business security high on your list of priorities and make it one of your New Year’s resolutions?

It is well reported that a home is broken into every 40 seconds in the UK and the cost of burglary we all understand can be far more than just losing physical items, leaving many emotionally distressed, Bell Fire & Security, based at Hillington Park, is urging people to get in touch and seek advice on how to make their home or business premises safe and secure this year.

Bell Fire & Security, whilst a new name to the area, is not a new company.

The specialist intruder alarm and electrical firm previously known as Bell Alarms Paisley Ltd and NSI (NACOSS) and SELECT accredited, can trace its roots back to 1919 and has recently had investment to expand and strengthen its offering across Scotland.

Douglas Johnston, from East

focus on career changes and many more.

GROWTH STRATEGY GIVES ALARM BUSINESS A SECURE FUTURE Kilbride, the man behind the investment, brings with him a wealth of expertise gained in the security industry. Whilst there is a change of name and a new director to develop the business further, Gavin Bell, the grandson of the original founder Joseph Bell, is still very much part of the business and is delighted that Douglas is onboard to expand the business to provide even more intruder alarm and electrical services to customers.

Sponsors of the East Kilbride YM

Yet, how many of you will make 2016 the year you put home or business security high on your list of priorities and make it one of your New Year’s resolutions?

It is well reported that a home is broken into every 40 seconds in the UK and the cost of burglary we all understand can be far more than just losing physical items, leaving many emotionally distressed, Bell Fire & Security, based at Hillington Park, is urging people to get in touch and seek advice on how to make their home or business premises safe and Kilbride, the man behind the Football Club, Bell Fire & Security is secure this year. investment, brings with him a committed to supporting the local Bell Fire & Security, whilst wealth of expertise gained in the community and helping customers a new name to the area, is not a new security industry. Whilst there is a protect themselves, not just from company. change of name and a new director the cost of burglary or electrical specialist intruder alarm FootballThe Club, Bell Fire & Security is and to develop the business further, faults, but also from the pain and electrical firm previously known Gavin Bell, the grandson of the committed to supporting the local as Bell Alarms Paisley Ltd and NSI original founder Joseph Bell, is still emotional stress that is often left community and helping customers (NACOSS) and SELECT very much part of the business and behind. protect themselves, not justaccredited, from For more information, to ask canof trace its roots to 1919 and is delighted that Douglas is onboard the cost burglary orback electrical for advice or to book an engineer has had faults, butrecently also from theinvestment pain and to to expand the business to provide expand and strengthen its offering even more intruder alarm and visit, please call Bell Fire & emotional that is often left Security on 0141 883 9000 or visit Bell Fire & Security Douglas Johnston, Managing Director acrossstress Scotland. electrical services to customers. behind.Douglas Johnston, from East Sponsors of the East Kilbride YM www.bellalarms.co.uk. staff members.

For more information, to ask for advice or to book an engineer visit, please call Bell Fire & Security on 0141 883 9000 or visit Bell Fire & Security Douglas Johnston, Managing Director, Bell Fire & Security and various www.bellalarms.co.uk. staff members.

BELL 25 Montrose

Tel: 0141 88 BELL FIRE & SECURIT 25 Montrose Avenue, Hillington Park Glasgow G52 4LA BELL FIRE &Tel:SECURITY 0141 883 9000 or Fax: 0141 883 2999 SECURITY ALARMS

25 Montrose Avenue, Hillington Park Glasgow G52 4LA Tel: 0141 883 9000 or Fax: 0141 883 2999 peace of mind that your home or We provide SECURITY ALARMS SERVICING ELECTRICAL At Bell Fire & Security Ltd we We provide peace of mind that your home or We feel it is essentialfrom to arrange maintenance of your with business is protected intruders our domestic and commercial ele business is protected from intruders with our intruder alarm system and may be a requirement Scotland. extensive range of high tech equipment that will ELECTRICAL of your insurance policy. Insurance discounts may SECURITY ALARMS SERVICING extensive range offorhigh equipment that will detect and deter. be available propertiestech with insurance approved We can provide the following & Security Ltd wesystems. undertake both alarm We provide peace of mind that your home or We feel it isBell essential to arrange maintenance of your Fire & Security Limited provide fully insuranceAt Bell Firemaintained Electrical faults identified a domestic and commercial electrical work throughout detect and deter. business is protected from intruders with our intruder alarm system and may a requirement approved systems asbe follows: NEWLY INSTALLED SYSTEMS Sockets moved or new soc Scotland.

A new investment to expand and Douglas Johnston MD strengthen a longstanding family of Bell Fire & Security business has led to securing several ADVERTORIAL prestigious contracts.

A Bell done job is a well done job!

Bell Fire and Security, based on Montrose A Bell done job is a well done job!

Avenue, specialises in intruder alarms, electrical services for commercial and domestic customers and fire alarm systems.

Since September last year, Bell Fire and Security has doubled its staff and is now A ��������������������������������������� working across Scotland.

Your probably hearing Founded in 1919

by Joseph Bell in about lots of New Year’s resolutions like losing Paisley, the Bell family are still involved in a few pounds from festive the business making and work indulgences, 2016alongside Douglas the year who people promise the investment in Johnston provided to get fit, new or renewed focus on career changes and the firm. many more.

Douglas, who has been in the industry Yet, how many of you will make 2016 the year you put home or forbusiness 38 years, confident securityis high on your list that combining of priorities and make it one of your of all security and fire systems for the numbers by employing engineers and the customer service delivery which New Year’s resolutions?

It is well reported that a home is new Kooltech Headquarters on Gordon office personnel and we are looking to gained the company such a good broken into every 40 seconds in the UK and the cost of burglary we all Avenue. take on an additional eight people in the reputation along with a desire to take on understand can be far more than just losing physical items, leaving Douglas added: “Hillington Park is a next few months. We have also expanded bigger and more projects, will result in many emotionally distressed, Bell Firelong & Security, at perfect location for us due to its transport our geographical reach and are now further termbased success for the company.

Hillington Park, is urging people links, the facilities and the amount of covering the whole of Scotland which will Douglas said: “The company may to get in touch and seek advice on how to make their home businesses here that we can work with. generate a lot work have been premises small but it hadKilbride, a verythegood or business safe and Football Club, Bellmore Fire & Security is and income.” man behind the secure this year. investment, brings with him a committed to supporting the local It’s a thriving Park which we’re pleased to Hillington Park business community reputation the industry and gained in the The Bell Fire & within Security, in whilst wealth of expertise community and helping customers new name to the area, is not a new security industry. Whilst there is a protect themselves, not just from be part of. Our location will play a huge is also important to Douglas as Bell Fire a acompany. loyal, satisfied customerchange base.

I felt it of name and a new director the cost of burglary or electrical The specialist intruder alarm and to develop the business further, part in our growth going forward and we and Security other companies on the had the potential to expand and with the faults, but alsouse from the pain and electrical firm previously known Gavin Bell, the grandson of the emotional stress that is often left as Bell Alarms Paisley Ltd and NSI original founder Josephbe Bell, is still believe being based here will only benefit Park as suppliers of signage, equipment proper investment a growth plan could behind.

(NACOSS) and SELECT accredited, very much part of the business and For more information, to ask canin trace its roots back to 1919 and is delighted that Douglas is onboard us.” andforcables. put place. advice or to book an engineer has recently had investment to to expand the business to provide visit,one please Fire &jobs secured For more information visit of call theBell biggest “Since became Managing expand andIstrengthen its offering even Director more intruder alarm and And Security on 0141 883 9000 or visit Bell Fire & Security Douglas Johnston, Managing Director, Bell Fire & Security and various across Scotland. electrical services to customers. www.bellalarms.co.uk so far this year has been thestaff provision in September we from have doubled our staff Sponsors of the East Kilbride YM www.bellalarms.co.uk.

Douglas Johnston, East members. extensive range of high tech equipment that will detect and deter.

Bell Fire & Security Limited provide fully insurance approved systems as follows:

Domestic hardwired ‘audible only’ and monitored intruder alarms Domestic wireless ’audible only’ and monitored intruder alarms Domestic hybrid (a mixture of wired and wireless) intruder alarms Pet friendly detectors can be incorporated into any of the above 24 hour monitoring to our dedicated alarm receiving centre (ARC) Commercial ‘audible only’ and monitored intruder alarms

of your insurance policy. Insurance discounts may Full 12 month warranty Domestic hardwired ‘audible only’ and monitored be available for properties with insurance approved We can provide the following electrical services: annually Routine inspection and maintenance intruder alarms maintained alarm systems. for audible systems and bi-annually for identifionly ed and repaired Domestic wireless ’audible only’ and monitored Electrical faults monitored NEWLY INSTALLED Sockets moved or newsystems sockets installed intruder SYSTEMS alarms fully tested battery levels checked Full 12 month warranty lights or power pointsand installed Domestic hybrid (a mixture of wired and wireless) External System Light fittings replaced parts and labour Replacement Routine inspection maintenance annually intruderand alarms Full and partial rewires call out service 24/7 – 365 days.

Emergency for audible onlyfriendly systems and bi-annually for Pet detectors can be incorporated New lights installed SYSTEMS monitored into systems any of the above EXISTING RCD’s installed System fully and batteryto levels checked alarm 24tested hour monitoring our dedicated Service and repair to existing systems.

Mains power smoke alarms installed Replacement parts and labour receiving centre (ARC) We can takeover existing maintenance contracts, Electric showers wired Emergency call out service 24/7only’ – 365 days.

Commercial ‘audible and monitored whether we installed the system or not.

Oven and hob connection intruder alarms Service, test and report detailing condition of EXISTING SYSTEMS Wiring for new bathrooms and kitchens system and any work required to bring system Service and repair tocan existing systems.

Monitoring be provided via either digital dialler, Extractor fans replaced or installed up to acceptable standard to be offered a We can takeover maintenance Redcare,existing Redcare GSM or Dualcontracts, – Com as required. Portable Appliance Tests (PAT) maintenance contract. whether we installed the system or not.

Electrical Condition Inspection Report (Formerly We are members of The National Security upgraded Report) to include for 24 hour Service, test and report detailing condition of known as Systems Periodic Inspection Inspectorate (NSI) monitoring. system and any work required to bring system Existing consumer units replaced and upgraded up to acceptable standard to be offered a with RCD protection maintenance contract.

We are not only limited to the above list please give Systems upgraded to include for 24 hour us a call to discuss further requirements. monitoring.

External lights or power po

Light fittings replaced Bell Fire & Security Limited provide fully Full insurance and partial rewires New lights installed RCD’s installed approved systems as follows: Mains power smoke alarms Electric showers wired

Oven and hob connection Domestic hardwired ‘audible only’ and Wiring monitored for new bathrooms Extractor fans replaced or intruder alarms Portable Appliance Tests ( Electrical Condition Inspec Domestic wireless ’audible only’ and monitored known as Periodic Inspect Existing consumer units re with RCD protection intruder alarms We are not only limited to th us a callwireless) to discuss further re Domestic hybrid (a mixture of wired and Monitoring can be provided via either digital dialler, Redcare, Redcare GSM or Dual – Com as required. intruder alarms We are members of The National Security Inspectorate (NSI) Pet friendly detectors can be incorporated �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� into any of the above 24 hour monitoring to our dedicated alarm ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� receiving centre (ARC) Commercial ‘audible only’ and monitored intruder alarms

EK man makes good

Monitoring can be provided via either digital dialler, Redcare, Redcare GSM or Dual – Com as required.

We are members of The National Security Inspectorate (NSI)

Put home and business security high on your 2016 priorities

BELL FIRE & SECURITY 25 Montrose Avenue, Hillington Park Glasgow G52 4LA Tel: 0141 883 9000 or Fax: 0141 883 2999 SECURITY ALARMS

SERVICING

ELECTRICAL

We provide peace of mind that your home or business is protected from intruders with our extensive range of high tech equipment that will detect and deter.

We feel it is essential to arrange maintenance of your intruder alarm system and may be a requirement of your insurance policy. Insurance discounts may be available for properties with insurance approved maintained alarm systems.

At Bell Fire & Security Ltd we undertake both domestic and commercial electrical work throughout Scotland.

We can provide the following electrical services: Electrical faults identified and repaired Sockets moved or new sockets installed External lights or power points installed Light fittings replaced Full and partial rewires New lights installed RCD’s installed Mains power smoke alarms installed Electric showers wired Oven and hob connection Wiring for new bathrooms and kitchens Extractor fans replaced or installed Portable Appliance Tests (PAT) Electrical Condition Inspection Report (Formerly known as Periodic Inspection Report) Existing consumer units replaced and upgraded with RCD protection We are not only limited to the above list please give us a call to discuss further requirements.

Bell Fire & Security Limited provide fully insurance approved systems as follows: Domestic hardwired ‘audible only’ and monitored intruder alarms Domestic wireless ’audible only’ and monitored intruder alarms Domestic hybrid (a mixture of wired and wireless) intruder alarms Pet friendly detectors can be incorporated into any of the above 24 hour monitoring to our dedicated alarm receiving centre (ARC) Commercial ‘audible only’ and monitored intruder alarms Monitoring can be provided via either digital dialler, Redcare, Redcare GSM or Dual – Com as required.

We are members of The National Security Inspectorate (NSI)

NEWLY INSTALLED SYSTEMS Full 12 month warranty Routine inspection and maintenance annually for audible only systems and bi-annually for monitored systems System fully tested and battery levels checked Replacement parts and labour Emergency call out service 24/7 – 365 days.

EXISTING SYSTEMS Service and repair to existing systems.

We can takeover existing maintenance contracts, whether we installed the system or not.

Service, test and report detailing condition of system and any work required to bring system up to acceptable standard to be offered a maintenance contract.

Systems upgraded to include for 24 hour monitoring.

A Bell done job is a well done job! ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

21

Prepare yourself for the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)

Val Surgenor is a partner at MacRoberts

What is GDPR? After four years of debate, 14th April 2016 marked the passing of the new General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) by the European Parliament. This heralds the most significant reform of data protection laws in Europe for over 15 years and will have a significant impact on all businesses and individuals alike.

Being broadly more beneficial to consumers, there are significant changes for businesses to address and organisations will have to revisit their (or adopt new) data protection policies and procedures to ensure they meet the requirements of the new legislation.

A patchwork of data protection rules will be replaced with a single set of rules for use throughout Europe and will make organisations accountable to one unified supervisory authority, avoiding the complications cross-border organisations face dealing with different rules and regulators. For consumers it should

ultimately mean better control of their personal data thus reinforcing consumer trust.

How could GDPR impact your business?

• Single set of rules which will make it simpler and cheaper for companies to do business in the EU. • New obligations for Data Processors; • Affirmative consent requirements for processing personal data – if you collect personal data this will apply to your business; • Enhanced rights of data subjects • In some cases, an obligation on businesses to appoint a Data Protection Officer independently to ensure compliance with the GDPR. Companies based outside the EU will have to play by the same rules as EU companies when offering service within the EU.

Adoption of “Privacy by Design Companies that fail to comply with their obligations under the GDPR can face fines of up to 4% of global sales, with data controllers and processors being jointly and severally liable for any breach Whilst there are a number of benefits to smaller businesses, all businesses will have to make changes to accommodate the new rules. You have time to consider and implement the changes required to best suit your business requirements, don’t leave making those changes to the last minute.

MacRoberts’ team of data protection specialists can provide expertise and advice to businesses wishing to adopt this proactive approach to compliance preparation.

For further information, please contact Valerie Surgenor valerie.surgenor@ macroberts.com

Tel: 0141 303 1100

www.macroberts.com

Business Matters Summer 2016

22

NEW £6MILLION DEVELOPMENT ANNOUNCED AT HILLINGTON PARK LARGEST COMMERCIAL NEW BUILD PROJECT IN SCOTLAND IN 2016 GETS UNDERWAY Stuart Patrick (Glasgow Chamber of Commerce), Jamie Cumming (Hillington Park), David Fairweather (Muir Construction) and Bob Grant (Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce).

A new £6million commercial development on one of Scotland’s largest business parks has been announced.

The 85,477 sqft scheme, a joint venture between Oaktree Capital Management and Patrizia ag, known as Evolution Court, will be made up by four separate units ranging in size from 17,728 sq ft to 23,530 sq ft and is expected to appeal to the manufacturing, logistics and distribution industry due to its close proximity and highly visible positon facing the busy M8 motorway.

The Evolution Court announcement follows closely on the announcement that motorcycle brands Ducati, Triumph and Harley-Davidson would be moving onto the Park in early 2017 when Ducati Glasgow and West Coast Harley-Davidson open two new purpose built showrooms and service centres.

A report by consultants EKOS Limited into the economic impact of the new Evolution Court development showed that overall, the proposed development is anticipated to support 120 full time jobs and help generate £6.3m annual GVA at the Renfrewshire/Glasgow level, and 150 jobs and £10.9m GVA at the Scottish level.

Jamie Cumming, commercial director at Hillington Park said: “Evolution Court

is in a prime position on the Park. When complete it will be highly visible to the thousands of vehicles that pass along the M8 every day and just minutes from impressive transport links to the rest of Scotland and, with the M74 extension, south of the border.

“This significant investment reinforces the commercial opportunities at Hillington Park for businesses looking to relocate into first class, modern premises or for businesses already based here and who are looking to expand. There are very few new commercial property investments of this scale and type anywhere in Scotland and we’re very excited about it.”

Bob Grant, Chief Executive of Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce said: “Hillington Park have demonstrated clear ambition with this significant commercial development, signalling their continued commitment to the area with a key investment. Few locations can match the connectivity and infrastructure Hillington Park enjoys with world class organisations already well represented.

Evolution Court is a hugely welcomed addition to the Hillington portfolio and will offer excellent opportunities for companies wishing to relocate or expand their current operations.”

Stuart Patrick, Chief Executive of Glasgow Chamber of Commerce said: “Evolution Court will be an excellent addition to what is already a leading Scottish business park. Commercial investment of this size demonstrates the continued confidence in Glasgow’s economy, especially the manufacturing and distribution sectors. The ongoing development of this scheme is expected to support 120 jobs, and will have a hugely positive impact on the city its surrounding region.”

Located on the side of the Park nearest Glasgow Airport, the new build development is the latest major project

by Hillington Park’s majority owners Patrizia UK using the Park’s Simplified Planning Zone (SPZ). It is expected to be completed by the end of 2016.

The SPZ is effectively a pre-agreed planning permission, jointly approved by Renfrewshire and Glasgow City Councils, for the entire Park underpinned with a set of simple development parameters.

Hillington Park is located to the west of Glasgow and just two miles from Glasgow Airport and is the base for more than five hundred businesses employing around 8000 people including Balfour Beatty, BMI Healthcare National Enquiry Centre, DB Schenker and Arnold Clark.

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

23

Mark Brown Lights, Completes Abseil Camera...Monty.

Mentoring exec Mark Brown recently completed an abseil from the Forth Rail Bridge in aid of Parkinson’s UK. He successfully negotiated the 170 foot drop and in the process raised over £1500 for the charity. A large thank you to all who kindly donated and supported his fund raising efforts.

Media Monty delivers exceptionally high quality films for use in promoting your business. We work across multiple platforms with the aim of providing you with creative and innovative media content.

Tom Johnston with David Montgomery ( Media Monty) The company was set up by David Montgomery, a Broadcast Production Graduate from The University of The West of Scotland. David is a member of the Television Guild of Cameramen and his credits include The 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games, Rugby World Cup, ITN and BBC Children in Need.

Clients include The Hilton Glasgow, Sunderland A.F.C Foundation of Light, Renfrewshire Council, Home - Start UK and Insight Radio. Our latest projects include The Ideal Home Show and Menu Launch for The Hilton Glasgow.

If you are interested in discussing a new project please get in touch at david@mediamonty.com www.mediamonty.com @mediamonty

Evolution Court Highly visible and accessible location - Glasgow M8 frontage

NEW DEVELOPMENT

4 high quality industrial buildings

M8

TO LET A Ja vail nu ab ary le 201 7

17,728 to 23,950 sq ft To join us call the Hillington Park team on

0141 883 5760 Together, we are

www.hillingtonpark.com

24

Business Matters Summer 2016

B2B2016 - BUSINESS MATTERS IN RENFREWSHIRE

Supporting:

Renfrewshire Chamber held its 6th annual B2B event recently in the Lagoon, Paisley.

With over 50 exhibitors the day was attended by local businesses looking to network, learn and find new customers.

Six free seminars took place on a range of hot subjects including Social Media with NSDesign, marketing Scotland online with Visit Scotland and the latest updates on City Deal, Invest in Renfrewshire and Paisley 2021.

Bob Grant chief exec said “Thank you to all our exhibitors, speakers and attendees at B2B 2016. The largest free business event in the area is always a great opportunity to promote your business, network and learn from others.

In particular it is encouraging to see the level of interest and engagement shown in Paisley 2021 City of Culture bid as businesses continue to engage and understand what a winning bid can do for their organisations.�

Charlie Smith Marketing Director Visit Scotland

Dr Stuart Paul UWS

Gary Ennis NSDesign

Alasdair Kennedy Scottish Enterprise

Ed Monaghan Business Gateway

Ruth Cooper Economic Development Manager Renfrewshire Council

Karen Scott City Deal

Jean Cameron Paisley2021

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

25

Ministry of Defence

Holiday Inn Glasgow Airport

The Erskine Bridge Hotel

Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park

The Experience

The Glynhill Hotel

Scottish Qualifications Authority

Mirren Business Centres

Gleddoch House Hotel & Spa

Mathers Satellite & Security

Dianne Mitchell School of Music

The Normandy Hotel

Boyd Insurance

Visit Scotland

Europcar Chauffer Drive

The Bowfield Hotel

I am Me

Mabbett & Associates

West College Scotland

Business Matters Summer 2016

26

Renfrewshire Chamber golf day The Winners

Winning Team - fatBuzz

Longest Drive - Robbie MacKillop from RBS team

Nearest the Pin – F. Palmer Brookfield Alarms

Winning Individual - Bob Davidson DYW (West)

was hotly contested as ever and played in a fun spirit. The course at Kilmacolm was in fantastic condition and the green keeping staff did a great job. We were made very welcome by both the Proshop

and Clubhouse teams. I am delighted to say the fund raising raffle raised £1200 for Chamber Charity of the Year Accord Hospice. Thank you to all who made donations of prizes on the day.”

The Chamber annual golf day was held at Kilmacolm Golf Club on Friday 17th June. The sold out event saw 18 teams compete around the course which was in superb condition.

The winners were: • Winning Team - fatBuzz • Winning Individual - Bob Davidson DYW (West) • Longest Drive - Robbie MacKillop from RBS team • Nearest the Pin – F. Palmer Brookfield Alarms Commenting on the day Chamber chief executive Bob Grant said “thank you to all the teams who supported the chamber golf day. The weather stayed kind, the golf

At the heart of Paisley & Renfrewshire Local news, local stories, local entertainment, local sport, local people...

IN PRINT | ONLINE Special Chamber members advertising rate - call us now 0141 887 7744

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

27

Up & Coming

Chamber Pictures 1.

Events

3.

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

2.

4.

**No Lunch in July Summer Holidays** August Networking Lunch Thurs 25th with Garry Train, Manufacturing Executive Rolls Royce Inchinnan. Holiday Inn Glasgow Airport 5.

Breakfast Networking with Hillington Park Wed 31st Aug. Innovation Centre.

HR Forum with MacRoberts.

Wed 6th September.

September Networking Lunch Thurs 29th with Tony Fitzpartick CEO St Mirren. Paisley2021 Stadium.

6.

Rocco Awards 2016 Friday 18th November with Fred MacAulay, The Normandy.

AGM and Christmas Lunch Thursday 15th December at the Glynhill Hotel

facebook.com/renfrewshirechamberofcommerce Follow the chamber:

twitter.com/renfrewshirecoc

7.

1) Tom Johnston, Eileen Cummings Head of Young Workforce Development & Graham Bell CEO Kibble 2) Marry Russell School March Lunch 3) April Lunch @ David Lloyd 4) Sara Speirs MD Spectrum April Lunch 5) Liz Connolly WCS & Bob Davidson DYW May Lunch 6) Steve Conway CEO Erskine June Lunch 7) EU Discussions Cabinet Sec Keith Brown MSP

28

Business Matters Summer 2016

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

Advance City Marketing LLP

Hardies

Rainbow International

Marketing Consultancy Scott Taylor 07985 752157 scott.taylor@advancecitymarketing.com www.advancecitymarketing.com

Chartered Surveyors Martin McCabe 0141 585 6373 martin.maccabe@hardies.co.uk www.hardies.co.uk

Cleaning & Restoration Helen Cox 0141 889 6958 t.cox@rainbow-int.co.uk www.rainbow-int.co.uk

Andrew Forrest Associates Ltd

Kilchoman Distillery Co Ltd

RM Amusements Ltd

Building Surveying Andrew Forrest 07799661226 andrew@aforrestassociates.com

Single Malt Scotch Whisky Kathy Wills 01496 850 011 kathy.wills@kilchomandistillery.com www.kilchomandistillery.com

cafĂŠ/adult gaming area Robbie Morrison 0141 889 9159 robbie.morrison@icloud.com

Bfpeople Advertising / Seminars Workshops John Hamilton 0141 848 7312 john@bfpeople.com www.bfpeople.com

BP Contracts Ltd Construction / Shopfitting Billy Purdie 0141 237 7477 billy@bpcontracts.co.uk

EPAXS Ltd Courier Service Andrew Scott 0141 880 9027 info@epaxs.co.uk

FatBuzz Social Media Production Gordon White 0141 427 0727 gordon@fatbuzz.com www.fatbuzz.com

Legionella Compliance Consultancy Health & Safety Compliance Craig Morning 0141 433 0289 craig@legionellacc.co.uk www.legionellacc.co.uk

Lloyd Technology Computer technology Jacqueline Lloyd 033 331 11002 jackie@lloydtechnology.com www.lloydtechnology.com

Origins Fitness Ltd Gym/ Personal Training Graham Weaver 0141 891 5995 info@originsfitness.co.uk www.originsfitness.co.uk

Primestaff Recruitment Consultants Daniel McIntyre 0141 248 4711 dmcintyre@primestaff.co.uk www.primestaff.co.uk

Titan Global Resourcing Ltd Recruitment Jim Gallagher 0141 378 0180 jim@titanglobal.co.uk www.titanglobal.co.uk

Volkswagen Van Centre Van Centre Graham Ritchie 0141 781 2800 grahamritchie@lookers.co.uk http://www.lookers.co.uk/

WRC Recycling Ltd Plastic Recycling Colin Blakely 07876648994 colin.blakely@wrcrecycling.co.uk http://www.wrcrecycling.co.uk/

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Paisley 2021 announced as ROCCO 2016 Main Sponsor The Chamber is delighted to announce the main sponsor for 2016 is Paisley 2021.

Jean Cameron, Bid Director for Paisley 2021, said: “We are pleased to be supporting the ROCCOs, which are a fantastic way of recognising and rewarding the many successful businesses which operate across Renfrewshire.

“Businesses are at the heart of our communities, delivering products and services, and creating jobs and opportunities for local people.

“Paisley 2021 is committed to supporting Renfrewshire’s business community to bring significant economic benefits to the region. Our bid to become UK City of Culture 2021 will boost communities and industries throughout

Renfrewshire, and not just in the growth of our cultural and creative sectors.

“Being UK City of Culture will bring tens of thousands of additional visitors to the town and surrounding areas.

They will travel here to join us in celebrating our heritage and future, spending time in our hotels, restaurants, shops and venues.

“This presents a great opportunity for all local businesses to get involved in supporting the delivery of infrastructure for our cultural year.

“Culture helps us see things differently and seeing things differently gives businesses the creative edge.

“Paisley being UK City of Culture 2021 can be a real game changer for our local

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

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

Audrey Cumberford, Chamber President and Jean Cameron Bid Director Paisley2021

communities and economy.

To help ensure the Paisley 2021 bid is successful, we need the support and enthusiasm of Renfrewshire’s people, businesses and organisations.”

Paisley’s bid for UK City of Culture 2021 is expected to be lodged with the UK

Government’s Department for Culture, Media and Sport in spring 2017.

To find out more on Paisley 2021, visit www.paisley2021. co.uk, like Paisley2021 on Facebook or follow @ Paisley2021 on Twitter and Instagram. Enter the Rocco’s at www.roccoawards.com

INTRODUCING SCOTTISH SCHOOLS RADIO Hello from your newest Renfrewshire Chamber members!

We’ve been enjoying meeting staff at several Renfrewshire secondary schools these last few weeks as there’s a lot of interest in our low cost, hassle free schools radio solution.

You can listen to our programmes via www. scottishschoolsradio.com or search for us on the TuneIn app.

Gryffe High in Houston have been on board for several months and regularly ‘take over’ the channel with their own shows. Linwood High are about to join them with several others due to come on board after the summer break. We’ve produced an extensive resource pack to help teachers build lessons around what is a real, live school radio station that can be listened to anywhere.

Our evening programmes aimed at teaching staff will launch soon and we have opportunities for local businesses to advertise or sponsor programmes.

Email studio@scottishschoolsradio.com to find out more.

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Wanted Employers with the power to inspire

Pictured: Chamber Honorary President, Tom Johnston, Liz Connolly, VP Corporate Development, West College Scotland and Bob Davidson, Programme Director DYW (West)

DYW West, the Scottish Government funded and West College Scotland hosted initiative designed to help prepare young people for the world of work and help employers shape their future workforce, recently had the pleasure to speak at the May Renfrewshire Chamber networking lunch.

Commenting on the talk, ex Chamber CEO and now the DYW West Programme Director, Bob Davidson commented “... it was great to see the team and the members again. The audience were very receptive to what we are trying to do – and not one bread roll was hurled in my direction ;-) Our role is quite simple – we are encouraging employers to get more engaged with the curriculum at school and college, to inspire young people – so they can be better prepared for the world of work – and reach employers with the attitude required to succeed. We are keen to work with employers of all sizes and sectors – if anyone wishes to get involved please contact us with the following info. We will reach out to you, listen to your needs and discuss how we can help and what you could do.

For more info on DYW West follow us on social media and via our website at www.dywwest.co.uk

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

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Courses for young people and adults offering experiences and accreditation in: ✔ Automotive Mechanics ✔ Landscaping ✔ Bicycle Mechanics ✔ Sports & Recreation ✔ Construction Skills ✔ Hair & Beauty ✔ Employability ✔ Music and Sound Production ✔ Painting & Restoration ✔ Outdoor Education ✔ DIY skills Visit our new website for course information, locations and prices.

2016/2017

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

0141 404 2784 admin@mirrenpark.education facebook.com/mirrenparkschool

@mirrenpark

www.mirrenpark.education

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Advance your career with postgraduate study at UWS Keeping up with latest developments is becoming increasingly important to help employers and employees maintain their competitiveness. The University’s School of Business and Enterprise, which is one Scotland’s largest business schools, offers a wide range of postgraduate study options that are the ideal choice for any prospective students keen to enhance their employability in the marketplace.

The School offers innovative and flexible programmes of study aimed at people who already have ‘full-time’ commitments. For September 2016 entry the University’s popular MBA is available to study on a part-time at the University’s Hamilton Campus.

The programme, which reflects the ever-changing nature of business, and the global challenges that business leaders are facing, focuses on developing strategic analytical skills as well as business intuition and enquiring and adaptive thinking.

The MBA has been structured and designed to allow students, through the selection of option modules, to focus in one of four areas: Finance; Leadership; Enterprise; or Health Service Management. This allows students to align their MBA studies to their current career, or career aspirations.

Learning and exchange on the MBA takes place through a dynamic, virtual learning hub: the UWS MBA Online World which offers opportunities for students to engage and collaborate within their modules on an international basis.

Running September 2016 is the UWS Doctor of Business Administration (DBA), a globally recognised qualification aimed at MBA and professionally qualified postgraduates who wish to take their management and professional development to new levels.

The complexities of employment in the modern world require a high level of intellectual sophistication, and an increasing proportion of employers seek to recruit those with doctoral qualifications specifically. The distinctive characteristics of doctoral-level research are of increasing

relevance to the challenges faced in a number of non-academic fields.

The DBA, which is running on a full and part-time basis this September at Paisley Campus, enhances professional and executive practice through the application of rigorous research to real and complex issues. The DBA programme is aimed at experienced managers and executives working in a range of professional areas and those with suitable postgraduate qualifications, as specified in the entry requirements. The programme will appeal to those who wish to gain the highest level of professional qualification available in business and management, by undertaking world-class doctoral study.

The MSc in Digital Marketing has been designed in response to the fact that digital marketing is now established as a priority for local, national and international businesses because of the ever increasing digitalisation of consumer activities, and the business opportunities that arise in a dynamic online marketplace.

The Econsultancy/Marketing Budgets 2013 Report revealed that 71% of global businesses plan to increase their investment in digital marketing compared with 20% looking to increase their offline marketing spend.

The surge in demand for digital marketing professionals from companies looking to quickly step up their game in this area has inevitably led to a skills shortage across the marketing sector.

The UWS MSc in Digital Marketing, which is recognised by the Digital Marketing Institute (DMI), has a strong focus on the practical requirements currently expected for digital marketing graduates, underpinned by relevant academic theory.

Available to study on a part-time basis this September is Human Resource Management, which is designed for general managers and those working, or intending to work, as human resource practitioners.

This course involves the development of a distinctive set of integrated employment policies and practices designed to support students in understanding how the employment relationship operates on an

Malcolm Foley

individual and collective basis. Examining how greater utilisation of human resources can facilitate increased business success and improve employee satisfaction, students will develop and assess employment policies and practices.

The School enjoys close links with companies and organisations across the West of Scotland. It can tailor courses to suit organisations’ specific needs and deliver training and development in the workplace to fit around employees’ priorities, at a time that suits them.

Two short courses running in September are the Diploma in Management and Leadership and the Certificate in First Line Management. Both these courses, which are being delivered at Paisley Campus in the evenings, are accredited by the Chartered Management Institute (CMI).

The University is committed to ensuring the best possible student experience and recent figures show that 98% of UWS postgraduate students are in work or further study 6 months after graduating.

Professor Malcolm Foley, Vice-Principal & Pro Vice-Chancellor (Engagement) and Dean of the School of Business & Enterprise, said: “At UWS we work closely with the business community to ensure that our programmes meet the needs and demands of industry. This September we are running a number of exciting course that are the ideal option for any business professional looking to take their career to the next level.”

For further information regarding any of the School of Business and Enterprise’s postgraduate course vacancies this September visit www.uws.ac.uk/pg

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

SLG Apprentice Congratulations to Scottish Leather Group who picked up two awards at the Scottish Textiles Modern Apprenticeship Awards which took place on 4th May at Perth Racecourse.

After success in the Large Employer of the Year category, the Apprenticeship Champion of the Year award was collected by Bridge of Weir Operational Trainer John Ayton.

Current Apprentice Dylan Murray was also a runner up in the Apprentice of the Year Level 2 category and received a special commendation for his efforts.

Bridge of Weir Operational Trainer John Ayton, Current Apprentice Dylan Murray and Callum MacInnes Human Resources Manager

33

Chamber chief exec completes MBA at UWS Chamber Chief Exec Bob Grant recently graduated from University of the West of Scotland having completed their executive MBA program.

Bob said “The MBA program offered

by UWS has been a great experience. The course work – while challenging at times has been very relevant in my own working environment and I can thoroughly recommend the course. The quality Chamber CEO Bob Grant with UWS Principal & Vice of teaching was high Chancellor Prof. Craig Mahoney with a number of staff having real life commercial experience to draw on which really brought the theory we covered to life. I would recommend the post-graduate program at UWS to anyone thinking of further study and looking to advance their career.” The program is flexible delivered both online and with face to face teaching in a great setting.

ACCELERATE YOUR BUSINESS CAREER WITH UWS INNOVATIVE, FLEXIBLE OPTIONS IN BUSINESS START SEPTEMBER 2016 • • • • •

Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) Master of Business Administration (MBA) MSc Digital Marketing (recognised by the Digital Marketing Institute) MSc Human Resource Management (CIPD accredited) MSc Finance and Accounting with CIMA

Short Courses • Diploma in Management and Leadership (CMI accredited) • First Line Management (CMI accredited) For info visit www.uws.ac.uk, call 0800 027 1000 or email ask@uws.ac.uk

University of the West of Scotland is a registered Scottish charity. Charity number SC002520.

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Local energy industry actors get the key to efficient use of the latest domestic storage technologies

E

arlier this year, West College Scotland (WCS) hosted Scotland’s first Energy Storage Showcase Event. Developed in partnership with the Energy Savings Trust (EST) and Energy Skills Partnership (ESP), the event gathered over 130 industry specialists, suppliers and contractors.

The event was structured around keynote presentations and breakout sessions, giving delegates a unique opportunity to gain expert insight into the latest developments on domestic storage technologies and share knowledge and experience in their use.

During breakout sessions, delegates were able to get to grips with the latest technology development with industry leaders such as Sunamp, Fronius and Solar Edge. Health and Safety concerns were covered as well, with Total Access addressing the matter and specifically safe working at heights..

Energy storage is very much a future technology that is here now Andrew Fogarty Head of Energy and Engineering West College Scotland

Attendees were also welcome for a lunch and networking session during which they could ask questions to experts and discuss energy storage and related topics.The feedback on the event was remarkably positive. Steve Pester, Principal Consultant at BRE National Solar Centre, based in the Eden Project and one of the lead technical contributors to the new IET Code of Practice for Grid Connected Solar Photo-voltaic Systems, said: Andrew Fogarty Presenting at Scotland’s first Energy Storage Showcase Event Andrew Fogarty, Head of Energy and Engineering at WCS, led the initiative. He explains the importance of this event for the industry and the local market: “Energy storage is very much a future technology that is here now, we anticipate 2016-17 to be a coming of age era for efficient, affordable and clean energy storage. With reductions in subsidies, energy storage is in many ways the ‘missing link”’ for solar PV and we look forward to working with EST to help develop the supply chain in this field. ” In addition to key considerations and technical guidance in energy storage technologies, attendees were presented with valuable information on the UK market potential.

“EST and WCS collaborated to stage a superb event explaining in detail the technology and benefits of energy storage systems. The College demonstrated state-of-the-art training facilities along with highly motivated and knowledgeable staff.

The smooth organisation and format of the event resulted in a lively mix of presentations and practical break-out groups, keeping everyone interested and engaged.”

Surely this event will help increase the understanding and efficient use of the latest energy storage technologies by local industry actors. WCS and its partners are looking forward to driving other similar event to showcase developments in energy technologies which can be beneficial for the local market.

Ian Cuthbert, Programme Manager, Sustainable Energy Supply Chain at EST, said:

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

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“Energy storage is no longer a pipedream for the future, it is happening here and now with products now available for householders.There’s a real opportunity here for Scotland to lead the way on energy storage and that is why we held this event

There is a real opportunity here for Scotland to lead the way on energy storage Ian Cuthbert Programme Manager, Sustainable Energy Supply Chain at EST

for industry with funding from the Scottish Government and in partnership with WCS. Following the event, 80% of attendees said they wanted to get involved with the energy storage market which is really encouraging. It’s also great that there is now a legacy from the event with a number of energy storage technologies now having a permanent home at WCS. These technologies will be put to good use by the College to ensure that apprentice electricians, plumbers and other trades have a good knowledge and understanding of energy storage technologies.”

Ian Cuthbert Presenting at Scotland’s first Energy Storage Showcase Event

Clockwise from below Breakout session with Sunamp, Steve Pester, Plenary Q and A’s, Breakout session with Total Access

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Failing to prepare is preparing to fail...

One of the themes of this edition of Business Matters is training and development. Business leaders often view employment law and related HR matters as an adjunct or aside to running the organisation, something that requires no training or development. Employment law can be perceived as something that only needs to be considered when the issue is raised, rather than something requiring proactive consideration and advance planning.

There are a number of reasons why this is not so. Firstly staff are usually one of the organisation’s biggest assets. Significant investment has been devoted to recruiting the right candidate, to providing a suitable and safe workplace and to creating the conditions for a successful working environment.

Given the broad reach of employment law (which applies at all stages of the employment relationship including recruitment and in some cases beyond employment) there is a real risk that employers can damage the working relationship without giving due regard to employment law issues. Employers want to foster a first rate culture that embraces diversity, avoids discrimination and ensures equality of opportunity exists for everyone. Combatting outdated working practices and bias can take significant effort.

The Equality and Human Rights Commission’s Code of Practice on the Equality Act 2010 is a great starting point for sound practical guidance

as to how to navigate around the legal and practical issues arising in discrimination law. Part 2 gives employers practical support. One of recommendations is to monitor practices and procedures to make sure that the potential for any indirect discrimination claim (ie where a seemingly neutral policy or provision affects a greater number of people with a protected characteristic) is minimised. Any such trends can be identified and remedial action taken.

The law can also sometimes be perceived as tough for employers.

If an employee can bring evidence that would allow an Employment Tribunal to draw an inference that the protected characteristic could have been the reason for the treatment, the onus then swings to the employer to show that “in no sense whatsoever” was the reason for the treatment the protected characteristic. That requires detailed evidence and proof as to the reason why the employer made the decision. That underlines the need for good systems and processes with clear written records (which are properly made and retained in accordance with the Data Protection Act).

Another reason why a reactive approach is not recommended is the complexity and amount of the law. Employment law and good HR practice is sometimes not intuitive.

It is also possible for treatment to be unlawful even where motives were good. The unlimited compensation that can be awarded together with the reputational damage and internal upset that employment claims can

David Hoey, Partner, Accredited Employment Law Specialist

bring are good reasons for taking a proactive and considered approach to managing these matters.

However, it is not all bad news. The law does afford employers a defence in many cases. One such defence is the “reasonable steps” defence. Did the employer take all reasonable steps to prevent unlawful discrimination, for example? This requires evidence that the employer had a sound Equal Opportunities Policy, the policy was well known with regular staff training in its application together with evidence the employer acted fairly and consistently when issues arose.

Employment law really is fascinating and employers who take the time to consider how it can impact on a day to day basis and who ensure all staff are trained in the relevant areas really have nothing to fear. But conversely failing to prepare really would be preparing to fail. Enjoy the holidays!

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Matching Need to Care Launched June 2016

Background Patients with life limiting illnesses are living for long periods of time with complex issues resulting in increasing referrals to Specialist Palliative Care services. To cope with the growing demand for services, ACCORD has recently considered some innovative and different ways of delivering evidence based care as needed. These changes fit nicely with the recent merging of health and social care services and the publication of the National Clinical Strategy for Scotland (2016).

To achieve our aim of effectively managing referrals we are introducing a service to match the patients’ needs to the appropriate service, at the appropriate time. The Matching Need to Care (MNtC) team will be available Monday – Friday 9am -5pm.

Meet the Team

Aims of the MNtC Service Co-ordinate all referrals received to ACCORD and match the patients’ needs to the appropriate service using validated assessment tools and outcome measures. Patients will be contacted and offered a range of hospice services based on their needs Dedicated advice telephone line to MNtC team. (0141 581 2008)

MNtC Team: Janice Boyd, Sharon MacDonald and Pamela Dalrymple Palliative Care Clinical Nurse Specialists ACCORD Hospice Charity number SC 013682

Tel 0141-581-2000 www.accordhospice.org.uk

Introduce a focused and quick daily clinical In-Patient Unit meeting concentrating on bed management and discharge planning.

Introduce evidence based outcome measures into clinical practice throughout the hospice.

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Renfrewshire Council Updates: Paisley UK City of Culture bid is backed by Glasgow Airport Paisley’s bid to be UK City of Culture 2021 has been cleared for take-off – after it was formally endorsed by bosses at Glasgow Airport.

The Renfrewshire town is bidding for the title as part of a wider push to use heritage and culture to transform the area.

And Glasgow Airport declared that good for business during an event today which included a Paisley-themed artwork on the floor of the check-in area to grab the attention of holidaymakers.

Renfrewshire Council Leader Mark Macmillan and Glasgow Airport managing director Amanda McMillan were both there along with artist Duncan Wilson, who produced the 3D-effect artwork known as a trompe l’oeil (trick of the eye).

Cllr Macmillan – who is chair of the Paisley 2021 Partnership Board, which governs the bid – said: “As one of the most significant private-sector employers in Renfrewshire, we are delighted the team at Glasgow Airport have decided to publicly throw their

weight behind the bid.

“The airport is a direct link between Renfrewshire and the rest of the world, which makes them the perfect fit for the bid.

“Paisley once had connections throughout the globe via the textile industry in the form of the Paisley Pattern and the giant thread mills which followed – and the bid will involve us retelling that unique story to the world.

“The years leading up to 2021 will see two massive projects taking place through the Glasgow and Clyde Valley City Deal which will better connect the airport and Renfrewshire for businesses and travelers alike – the airport surface access project and the Glasgow Airport Investment Zone – and today’s announcement firms up that relationship even more.”

Amanda McMillan, chief executive of AGS Airports Ltd and managing director of Glasgow Airport, said: “Paisley has a vibrant and rich heritage and is known across the globe for its famous Paisley Pattern.

£4.5m town centre revamp to start as national lottery funding confirmed Plans for a multi-million-pound transformation of Paisley town centre have now cleared the final funding hurdle after receiving a £1.9m national lottery grant.

Renfrewshire Council will now start work on a five-year £4.5m Townscape Heritage and Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme to make the area around the High Street a more attractive place to visit and invest.

The Heritage Lottery Fund last year awarded the council £113,000 to prepare detailed plans for the scheme, and earmarked a further £1.9m subject to approval of those plans – which has now been given.

Historic Environment Scotland has already confirmed an award of £1m towards the scheme to cover repairs to historic buildings, with the rest of the total to be made up by Renfrewshire Council and investment by the building owners

themselves.

The programme will start this year and will focus on a defined area covering the west end of the High Street – from the junction with New Street to the university – plus parts of New Street and Shuttle Street.

A series of priority buildings have already been identified for repairs and restoration, while the HLF money will also fund a programme of community activity designed to complement Paisley’s bid for UK City of Culture 2021.

It will build on the success of the £3.5m THI/CARS scheme which has transformed the area around Causeyside Street over the past few years, including shopfront repair grants, public realm improvements, and a revamp of Paisley Arts Centre.

Renfrewshire Council Leader Mark Macmillan said: “We are delighted this award has been confirmed and we would like to thank our friends at Heritage Lottery Fund and Historic Environment

Councillor Mark Macmillan, Leader of Renfrewshire Council and Amanda McMillan chief executive of AGS Airports Ltd

“Not only will UK City of Culture status shine a light on the town’s role in shaping the global textile industry, it has the potential to have a transformational effect on Paisley by harnessing a greater sense of civic pride and showcasing it as a destination in its own right.

“Paisley has the added advantage of having a thriving airport on its doorstep and I have no doubt whatsoever that securing the title of the UK City of Culture will play a major role in driving tourism.

“The bid has the full support of Glasgow Airport and Renfrewshire Council should be commended for its ambition.”

Paisley-based artist Duncan Wilson added: “It uses the colours of the Paisley 2021 bid and is very crisp and colourful – people aren’t going to be able to walk past it…you can’t miss it!”

Scotland for supporting our ambitions.

“Paisley town centre has a tremendous built heritage – with only Edinburgh having a higher concentration of listed buildings of anywhere in Scotland.

“This project will deliver some muchneeded investment to bring some vacant historic buildings back into use.

“In doing so we will not only be improving the look and feel of the town centre, but also stimulating the local economy, and hopefully increasing footfall in the area around the High Street.

“The project is scheduled to run until 2021 - making it a perfect fit for the UK City of Culture bid and the planned £56.7m revamp of Paisley Museum - and will deliver a programme of activity designed to complement both.”

Lucy Casot, Head of the Heritage Lottery Fund in Scotland, said: “Building on the success of what has been achieved already, we are delighted to make this award to Paisley. It is part of our on-going commitment to preserving Scotland’s heritage in a way in which is relevant to the needs of today.”

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Renfrewshire Council Updates:

Meet the New InCube Bunch InCube, Invest in Renfrewshire’s business incubator hub, is saying goodbye to their first group of creative businesses as they move on to bigger things in their entrepreneurial journeys. Having spent the last 11 months growing their businesses with InCube’s support, they are now leaving the incubator hub with nearly a years worth of expert advice, support and valuable skills which will prepare them for the future growth of their businesses.

MISTY CONCEPTS Misty Concepts creates unique origami paper lighting. Melissa’s idea for Misty Concepts came from a geometric model she made a university project. After struggling with the project, she went online to look at paper folding tutorials – this led her to discover the innovative origami technique which is now the base for her business. From string lights to large light shades, Melissa can offer something to jazz up any room with her stylish products which can be made in your choice of colour, size and style.

OTHERS ARE Others Are is a contemporary pre start jewellery brand inspired by and created entirely in Scotland. Fresh jewels are designed and handmade by artist Kirsty McQueen. Pieces will be made entirely from recycled and ethically sourced materials such as EcoSilver (which is 100% recycled & 100% traceable sterling silver) and vintage beads. Others Are aims to inspire confidence and empower the wearer - it celebrates diversity and body positivity.

InCube are looking forward to the development of Others Are as a distinct and stylish Scottish jewellery brand.

3DNA Designs 3DNA Designs create stunning jewellery made from colourful gemstones and sterling silver. Available for commissioned pieces, 3DNA also offers a wide range of ready made bracelets, necklaces, rings and earrings. Currently a guest trader at the InCube Shop, Paisley based Yvonne’s handmade jewellery has already proved popular in the town.

TOUT PETIT Tout Petit offers baby blankets and gifts knitted in 100% Merino wool, in a full range of colour combination of your choice, with the option of personalised embroidery. Tout Petit’s range of colourful products really caught InCube’s eye, and founder Dyane Lanez has already taken up the guest trading opportunity at the InCube Shop.

All good things come to an end, but InCube are excited to welcome their second group of businesses. Each entrepreneur is raring to go and they are already making a mark in their industries. InCube is really looking forward to working with them and developing their businesses over the next 9 months. From home accessories to jewellery, the incubator hub will be home to a very diverse group full of Renfrewshire creative talent. Here they are!

LW GRAPHICS – More than Words Lorna Williams, founder of LW Graphics, creates bespoke framed prints which can be bought as seen or personalised. As an expansion of LW Graphics, More than Words, uses Lorna’s graphic design expertise to create wonderful products which are perfect gifts. Having already been a guest trader at the InCube Shop, Lorna’s products have proven to be successful in the local market.

KAREN HANVIDGE CERAMICS Karen Hanvidge Ceramics create colourful and abstract ceramics, which are decorative yet functional. Each piece is handcrafted with individual shapes making every design unique. Karen draws inspiration from shapes, pattern and colour, with attention to local history and nature. Winning the SAY Awards 2016 prize commission, Karen has already kick started her InCube journey. You can currently check out a range of her products at the InCube Shop as Karen currently takes up residency as a guest trader.

KCD ‘KCD is the little brand with a big, bold heart’. Krisztina has been creating affordable costume jewellery and home accessories that stand out from the crowd since 2008. The KCD signature style is vibrant, easy to wear and appeals to women of all ages.

The combination of unique and traditional materials is at the forefront of ensuring KCD products are innovative yet classic.

From handmade jewellery to quirky home accessories, the KCD style is prominent and eye catching in every piece.

The diverse group of makers, artists and designers have big plans for the future as they develop their businesses with InCube’s help. They will each gain from a varied package of support including broad business advice, ecommerce support, mentoring, office and meeting rooms, retail space and membership to Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce.

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Renfrewshire Council Updates:

Aiming Higher for Renfrewshire Renfrewshire’s employability stars have been honoured at a glittering ceremony at the Normandy Hotel.

BBC Scotland’s Bryan Burnett presented awards that recognised the people, public sector partners and businesses who have helped make Invest in Renfrewshire such an outstanding success.

Winners were selected from tremendously strong shortlists in categories such as Best Apprentice, CV Builder, and Most Promising Entrepreneur.

The Chamber’s Tom Johnston presented the award for Best Apprentice, to Amanda Allan of West College Scotland who said; ‘This is a great honour. My apprenticeship has helped start my career with a job that I love. I’m proud to be working with West College Scotland and proud to be part of Renfrewshire’s economic growth.”

The Special Achievement Award went to Colin McKenzie of Project SEARCH, an employability programme for young people with learning disabilities. He said; “Project SEARCH has given me confidence and skills and it has helped me to find a job. Our whole class has had a brilliant year and we all feel that we can move into work and make a contribution to the world.”

Sandra Black, Chief Executive of Renfrewshire Council, Colin McKenzie, winner of the Special Achievement Award and Bryan Burnett

Brian Burnett, Amanda Allan and Tom Johnston

The award for Most Promising New Entrepreneur went to Catharine Anderson of Vouch for That. She said; “Renfrewshire’s a great place to start a business. I’ve had really useful support from Invest and it’s very encouraging to have our new enterprise recognised with this award.”

Johnny Mone, Catharine Anderson and Brian Burnett

Other award winners were: • Top Intern, Emma McShane of Linstone Housing; • Best Trainee, Gary Young of the Renfrewshire Leisure Sports Coach Academy; • CV Builder, Youth, Caitlin Donaghy of Abbey Vets in Paisley; • CV Builder, Adult, Ayodele Afo Afolabi, of Engage Renfrewshire; • Most Promising New Employee, George Shand of Mirren Park School Ltd; • Progression in Work, James Maclennan of Blend Coffee Lounge Paisley; Three of Renfrewshire’s businesses received Special Recognition Awards for their commitment to helping people prepare for work, enter work, and progress in work.

Mirren Park School Ltd works closely with Invest in Renfrewshire and has provided work experience to help young people develop their skills.

The second special recognition award went to Danny McKinn, owner of Windowcare. His company worked with Invest to take on four, previously unemployed people.

Scotland Excel was recognised for its commitment to creating and promoting new qualifications and helping people to progress in work. It has employed graduate interns and Modern Apprentices and sought to attract unemployed people to the procurement profession.

Julie Welsh, Director of Scotland Excel said, ‘We find that Invest’s partnership approach means that we can recruit and develop staff while also giving local people career opportunities in our profession.

We’re delighted with our award and will continue to work with Invest to strengthen Scotland Excel, people’s prospects, and the wider economy.”

The awards were also an opportunity to reflect on the successes of Renfrewshire’s economic regeneration. For four years, the council’s programmes have been creating jobs, reducing unemployment, tackling poverty, driving a cultural revival and making life better for individuals, families and communities throughout Renfrewshire.

Councillor Mark Macmillan, Leader of Renfrewshire Council said; “Our success story has been driven by Renfrewshire’s people. I’d like to thank those who run businesses and create jobs and learning opportunities. We should also recognise those people, at all stages of their careers, who have committed to building their futures in Renfrewshire.

“In the three years from the launch of Invest, Renfrewshire’s youth unemployment ranking went from 27th in Scotland (that’s 6th bottom) to being 4th best. This means that our young people can look forward to building careers and futures in our communities. It is now within our grasp to end long term youth unemployment in Renfrewshire. That will be an amazing achievement and it is part of our Aiming Higher agenda.

“We’re aiming higher to put Renfrewshire where it should be: at the heart of the region’s economy; recognised as a centre of creativity and excellence; admired for scale of our regeneration; and an inspiration to the world.”

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Renfrewshire Council Updates:

Glasgow City Region City Deal steps up a gear Councillor Frank McAveety, Leader of Glasgow City Council, Councillor Mark Macmillan, Leader of Renfrewshire Council and Councillor Martin Rooney, Leader of West Dunbartonshire Council

Councillor Mark Macmillan, Leader of Renfrewshire Council and Glasgow City Region Portfolio Lead for Enterprise

The City Deal’s £1.13 billion infrastructure programme took a major step forward on 6 June when the Cabinet agreed to develop a manifesto for economic development and growth.

Leaders of the eight local authorities in the region also agreed to take on responsibility for focusing on new priority areas of work that will help deliver the 28,000 new jobs the City Deal is expected to deliver for the region.

It came as new branding and a website for the Glasgow City Region City Deal was launched.

Councillor Mark Macmillan, Leader of Renfrewshire Council and Glasgow City Region Portfolio Lead for Enterprise, said, ‘The City Deal is all about partnership, connectivity and innovation. These values will determine our regional economic strategy and support Renfrewshire’s regeneration.”

Planning and Consulting for the New Clyde Bridge Three council leaders have teamed up to look at the possible locations for the new opening bridge across the Clyde from Renfrew to Yoker or Clydebank.

The Leaders of West Dunbartonshire, Glasgow City and Renfrewshire Councils teamed up to view potential locations.

They believe that the bridge will bring “significant investment, jobs and transport benefits” to the area.

Councillor Mark Macmillan, Leader of Renfrewshire Council said, “When this bridge is built, Renfrew will be at a pivotal point in the region’s transport network and economy.”

The new bridge will increase the potential for businesses to grow by improving their connections with customers and suppliers on both sides of the river. It will also enhance access to land which is currently underused

or derelict; unlocking the potential for regeneration and new development.

The project is part of the Clyde Waterfront and Renfrew Riverside Project and is on which work is expected to start on site in 2018, taking two years to complete.

Residents and businesses in Renfrew, Paisley, Braehead , Clydebank, Yoker and surrounding communities were are invited to see the plans, meet the City Deal Project Team and find out more about the project. All events were well attended and overwhelmingly positive.

Further information about the Clyde Waterfront and Renfrew Riverside Project can be found at www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/ citydeal.

More information about the Glasgow City Region City Deal can be found at www.glasgowcityregion.co.uk.

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Renfrewshire Council Updates:

The successful graduates of Project SEARCH

Project SEARCH Graduation Impresses and Inspires Families, friends and colleagues gathered in Johnstone Town hall for a graduation ceremony with a difference when 11 young people celebrated their completion of Renfrewshire’s first ever Project SEARCH. The employability programme for young people with learning disabilities originated in Cincinnati, Ohio, and combines classroom learning with three 10-week work placements. It is designed to equip students with the skills and experience they need to find a job.

And this year’s class has been outstandingly successful. In speeches that impressed and moved their audience, they spoke of developing confidence, making friends, learning new skills, loving some of their work placements while finding others more challenging, overcoming worries and building new

social lives.

Certificates and awards were presented

by Councillor Roy Glen, Convenor of Renfrewshire Council’s Economy and Jobs Board who said, “These young people have succeeded far beyond the requirements of Project SEARCH. They have shown a determination to learn, a commitment to work and openness to new experiences that has impressed and inspired everyone who has worked with them. They have also formed strong friendships that, I hope, will last them a lifetime.”

The students’ hard work and determination has paid off. Four have already found jobs while the others are actively pursuing opportunities in their chosen careers.

Graduate Colin McKenzie has been successful getting work as a school

cleaner and is winner of Invest in Renfrewshire’s Aiming Higher Special Achievement Award. He said, “Project SEARCH has given me confidence and skills and it has helped me to find a job.

Our whole class has had a brilliant year and we all feel that we can move into work and make a contribution to the world.”

Shona MacDougal, Director of Community Resources at Renfrewshire Council, where many students gained their work experience, said, “Project SEARCH is really about everything positive; the values and ambitions that we all share and the skills and talents that we can bring to the job.”

Local businesses who believe that they might have a job opportunity for a Project SEARCH graduate, can call Ian Stewart on 0141 618 4694.

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Renfrewshire Council Updates: Renfrewshire Council Applies for Living Wage Accreditation to “ build a fair and prosperous future” Renfrewshire Council has applied to become an Accredited Living Wage Employer, underlining its commitment to tackling poverty and supporting economic regeneration.

The Living Wage is an hourly rate set independently and updated annually. It is calculated according to the basic cost of living and is set by the public; it is a social consensus about what people need to make ends meet. This year’s Living Wage has been set at £8.25.

The application for accreditation is the latest step in the council’s campaign to make Renfrewshire’s a Living Wage Economy and has involved working with suppliers to ensure that their employees, like council workers, are paid the Living Wage. This means that even more people will benefit from the council’s commitment to fair pay.

Councillor Mark Macmillan, Leader of Renfrewshire Council, said, “This is the right thing to do. We are determined to build a fair and prosperous future and the Living

Wage benefits people and supports business growth.”

Because of low pay, the fast-growing type of poverty is now among people who have jobs. The Living Wage is a key part of our commitment to Tackling Poverty and businesses should also see it as a positive move.”

An independent study among employers showed that paying the Living Wage had enhanced the quality of their staffs’ work, reduced absenteeism, helped with recruitment and retention, and improved customer service.

Yet, as Councillor MacMillan explains, “there are around 16,000 jobs in Renfrewshire that pay below the Living Wage. We plan to work with local businesses to halve this figure; reducing in-work poverty and creating sustainable growth.

The council has also invested INSERT FIGURE in its Invest in Renfrewshire business growth and employability partnership. Around 900 local businesses

have signed up to Invest which has created more than 1,000 new jobs and helped more 3,300 into work. The programme has been so successful that, in the three years since its launch, Renfrewshire’s youth unemployment ranking went from 27th in Scotland to being fourth from top.

Councillor Macmillan said, “We are determined to help create quality jobs in Renfrewshire and to ensure that no one is left out of the opportunities arising from our economic regeneration, our cultural revival or from the wider opportunities arising from Glasgow City Region City Deal.

We are building a positive future and a Living Wage Economy is part of that.”

The council hopes to have its Living Wage accreditation confirmed by the end of the summer and will be continuing to encourage other employers to follow its lead. Businesses interested in joining the campaign to make Renfrewshire a Living Wage economy should contact David Rule at Invest in Renfrewshire on 0300 300 1180.

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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Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

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Renfrewshire Schools Dragons’ Den Final 2016

The Renfrewshire Schools Dragons’ Den Programme was established in 2010 and provides an excellent platform for our young people to develop skills for learning, life and work. The Renfrewshire model has now been adopted across the West College Regional footprint and subsequently, similar programmes are running this year in Inverclyde and West Dunbartonshire. Successful establishments from each region will receive funding in May/ June to develop their business ideas that will then be showcased at a Regional Event in January 2017.

The Renfrewshire 2016 Final was held at West College Scotland Paisley Campus on Tuesday May 24.

Young people from the following establishments will be presented their business plans to the Dragons: Paisley Pre – Five Centre. Second Chances – which is a Thrift Shop based in the nursery for young families – recycle clothing and toys supporting local families and Women & Children First charity. £350 was awarded by the Dragons to develop their idea.

St James Primary School (Renfrew), Perky Puppets - developing/creating puppet toys for performance – building relationships with young people in

developing countries. The Dragons awarded the pupils £410.

Trinity High School, Trinity Infinity School Magazine Business – supporting the local school community. The pupils received £350 to develop their magazine.

St John Ogilvie Primary School, Fruity Fantastic - School based smoothie & juice business – to help support the purchase of food for local Food Bank. £400 was awarded to support the smoothie business.

Arkleston Primary School , Sprit of Arky - School Uniform Shop – recycle /re-used school uniform business profits to support anti-sectarian work in school. £650 was awarded to support the uniform business.

Todholm Primary School, Todholm Tearooms - Selling School Cookery Book to fund Community Café – supporting school inter-generational programmes.

The Tearoom received £630 from the Dragons to support the development of the business.

The pupils were bidding for funding supported by Renfrewshire Council, Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce and the Scottish Leather Group. Once again, we are in -debited to West College Paisley for hosting and supporting this key programme. The Social Enterprise Academy have again provided key support to staff in participating schools.

The Dragons for the evening were • Liz Connelly, Vice Principal for Corporate Development WCS • Alison Dowling, Renfrewshire Wide Credit Union • Bob Grant, Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce • Jay Lamb, Scottish Social Enterprise Academy • James Lang, Scottish Leather Group.

This proved once again to be an outstanding event where the young people of Renfrewshire Schools showcased their skills and talents .The business presentations were innovative and extremely well researched, drawing praise and ultimately funding to support their business ventures. Provost Anne Hall and Director of Children’s Services Mr Peter Macleod were both in attendance.

The schools having now received their funding now have until January 2017 to develop their business ideas when they will then take part in a regional showcase event with young people from Inverclyde and West – Dunbartonshire.

Bob Davidson, Regional Director of the DYW West Region has agreed to talk with the local business community to seek business mentors for each of the six schools moving forward.

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SCHOOL UPDATES: Our Lady of Peace Enterprise Project - 2015/16 At the beginning of the school year a group of Primary 5, 6 and 7 children brainstormed ideas to create a small enterprise project. The aim was to make as much money as possible from only £1. Each team thought of their own ideas and then sourced how they could make this work. They organised roles, contacted local businesses and had a clear idea of the end result.

Below I have described the two enterprise projects which were created in Our Lady of Peace Primary School this year!

Our Lady of Peace Glamorous Nail Bar The Nail Bar was created by 7 girls and was held each Thursday at lunch time.

They invited younger children to come between 12.15pm and 1pm and pay £2 to have their nails painted. As part of their brainstorming idea the children contacted Tesco. We called our local store and wrote a letter to head office. As a result of this the children received nail varnishes and files from Tesco and also a £20 gift voucher. This allowed them to buy further stock such as nail files, cotton wool and various colours of varnishes.

This project ran for 6 weeks, we raised over £100 and had no outgoing cost.

Our Lady of Peace Fifa Fantasy Football League The boys in the enterprise group had brainstormed different ideas and decided to also run a lunch time club. Each Friday we had an Xbox FiFA tournament. Children from Primary 4-7 paid £1.50 to enter the tournament where they played in rounds with the hope of making it to the finals week. The winner of the Fifa tournament won a £10 GAME voucher with the children in this group also contacting GAME in the hope of receiving a donated voucher. The children also sourced an X-box, Fifa game and set this up each week. We had over 40 children enter and raised over £60!

The children, both in and out of the enterprise group, really enjoyed the projects! The children worked independently, receiving very little support and worked extremely hard.

Fun, food and fundraising!

Primary 5P at Bishopton Primary School recently held a yummy enterprise event linked to our literacy topic of ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’ by Roald Dahl.

Through advertising by leaflets, posters, school blogs and texts we were blown away by the great variety of tasty chocolate treats to sell at our ‘Cafe Chocolat’ morning. We were especially grateful to our local Cooperative store who kindly donated all of the yummy ice cream.

The whole school had deliciously good fun and the grand net total of £460 was raised for our school fund. Well done P5P!

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Linwood High School YOUNG ENTERPRISE SCOTLAND Linwood High School Opus The YES team at Linwood High School were extremely successful this year at the Renfrewshire area finals picking up an astounding 6 different awards, including the Best Young Enterprise Company Renfrewshire. Pupils worked extremely hard throughout the project fundraising capital through up-cycling items to support the creation and printing of their Scottish and French children’s book.

The team would like to thank their business advisor Evelyn Walker from Hewlett Packard for all her support and the 3 link teachers, Mrs Smith, Miss Smith and Mrs Smith for their guidance and time. A proud moment for Linwood High School for some very hard working and deserving pupils.

LINWOOD HIGH SCHOOL RAPID RESPONSE Thanks to Dawn Millar from Balfour Beatty and Tommy Shinton from AECOM our STEM Ambassadors for joining us for our IDL S2 event. A great day was had by all, building shelters, and transporting water. Pupils developing vital team working and problem solving skills.

WOMEN INTO ENGINEERING EVENT Thanks to UWS for having us at their inspirational Women into Engineering day, pupils loved the coding activities and designing wind turbines.

Gleniffer High School Employability Week As part of the Gleniffer High school’s S4 Enrichment Programme, 20 of our S4 pupils sitting few or no National 5 exams were involved in our now annual Employability Week.

Between the 9th and 13th of May pupils were presented with a series of workshops aimed at developing their confidence and employability skills. These sessions were delivered and supported by local businesses, trainers and educators within Renfrewshire.

At the beginning of the week the pupils were introduced to the application process and by the end of the week each pupils had a professional email, completed CV with skills developed over their sessions, three mock interviews and some excellent contacts. Through the process several of our pupils secured extended work experience placements with a view to future employment.

Our thanks go out the many businesses and organisations that supported us with particular mention going to Renfrewshire Council and the Chamber of Commerce for attending numerous workshops, providing support and promoting the event.

Sam Marshallsay Project Leader for Employability Gleniffer High School Follow us on twitter @employgleniffer or visit our website http://employgleniffer.weebly.com

Orbit programme

Over 10 weeks four of Gleniffer High School’s senior pupils have been taking part in the Orbit teenage business incubator program. Dillon Connery, Rebecca Kennedy, Ross Lochhead and Ryan Kidd set up social media marketing business and a youth fitness and nutrition training programme.

The program is a social enterprise which aims to build entrepreneurial and employability skills within 16-18 year olds.

Participants set up a small business and mentors guide them through everything relating to starting a business.

The pupils set up their own business, developed pitches and started to take in paying customers.

The programme is supported by Sir Tom Hunter and the Hunter Foundation with our pupils pitching to Sir Tom Hunter directly.

Dillon said: “Orbit has provided me with the opportunity to enhance my skills both socially and in the world of business. I am lucky enough to have the chance to meet some of Scotland’s leading businessmen and women, thus allowing me to learn from them and hopefully make myself better.

More information about the Orbit programme can be found at www.orbit-incubator.co.uk

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