Business Comment 29

JUNE/JULY 2014

Keeping the city moving

The Alexander Graham Bell Centre @Moray College UHI

‘SCALE UP, SCALE OUT, SCALE IN’ The Alexander Graham Bell Centre located in the heart of Elgin just 2 minutes walk from Elgin Train station brings to the heart of Moray a principal research, education and continuing professional development (CPD) facility for the Life Sciences Sector in the North East Of Scotland. The centre, a shared facility with Moray College UHI and NHS Grampian also provides the opportunity to bring together, research and development, academia and industry under one roof.

There are many facilities on offer within the Alexander Graham Bell Centre including: • Competitively priced research and commercialisation rooms aimed at companies working in the field of life sciences perfect for companies of growth or start ups.

• State of the Art conference facilities able to accommodate up to 200 delegates with special bespoke catering packages available on request.

• Smaller breakout rooms , lecture theatre and video conferencing facilities.

For enquiries and more information about this fantastic facility please contact: Hilda Puskas, Moray College UHI on (01343) 576475 or accommodation.moray@uhi.ac.uk www.moray.uhi.ac.uk/business-and-community/the-alexander-graham-bell-centre-moray-life-science-centre

JUNE/JULY 2014

Welcome to this latest issue of BC, your Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce magazine.

In this issue, we look at Transport. The demands the projected growth and success of our city will place on our transport infrastructure will be key to our future continued prosperity.

In that regard, the trams coming online is to be welcomed, and indeed the link to Edinburgh Airport to create a truly integrated international transport hub is a huge development.

Our continued success in attracting new air routes and new airlines to our successful Airport brings enormous benefits, and we hear not only from the airport but also from two of the airlines who help link us to the world. Our busy Port is another success on an international scale, bringing not only millions of tons of goods but an increasing number of high-spending visitors.

Contents 26

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Special Report

Ali Gayward

03 Introduction / contents

33 Partners in enterprise

04 There’s a new type of retailer in town

36 Conference & Exhibition feature

05 Should your business have a Shareholders’ Agreement?

43 Going international

44 Get with IT/ Be the best

45 In the spotlight

47 60 seconds

51 Getting started

51 New members

07 Capital View

08 Businesses must start helping themselves to lower bills

And of course, we face some immediate challenges in terms of coping with a busy year for Scotland, and we hear from ScotRail on their plans for the Commonwealth Games and the Ryder Cup.

12 New-look hotel opens

18 Lothian bus success

19 New swiss service from Edinburgh

Elsewhere, we illustrate the myriad of benefits that membership of the Chamber brings - from financial benefits to popular and enjoyable networking to training and development opportunities.

26|29 Special Report

52 Inspiring connections

30|31 Inspiring leaders

53 Events and training courses

54 Movers & shakers

32 Ask the expert

Finally, it is always good to learn what our members are up to as they continue to demonstrate the drive and ability to ensure that Edinburgh continues to be a city that delivers business success.

Enjoy the magazine

David Birrell

chief executive

david.birrell@edinburghchamber.co.uk

Join Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce Our membership base is truly multi-sector, multi-scale and multi- national. As we develop our geographic reach, we continue to welcome new members who can enjoy exclusive benefits of being part of Scotland’s capital city Chamber of Commerce. We would be delighted to share with you the benefits of joining.

Contact our dedicated membership team on 0131 221 2999 or e-mail membershipadmin@edinburghchamber.co.uk

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Chambernews

There’s a new type of retailer in town In a time when many traditional high street stores have been struggling, a new breed of retailer has been springing up across Scotland.

These new businesses, called social enterprises, are using the retail model as a way of creating positive change in their communities. This could be by creating training opportunities for people struggling to get a job, selling affordable healthy food or by providing retail space for artists with disabilities.

ICE Retail is one of these new retailers.

Based in the St James Centre in Edinburgh, it promotes and sells the works of independent Scottish makers who produce jewellery, art, photography, fashion and crafts. Because ICE Retail works with individual creators, all of the products on sale are completely unique and, as a social enterprise, they look to give something back to the community

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by running an in-store retail training programme for unemployed young people.

This programme gives the trainees the skills, confidence and knowledge to find jobs in the retail sector.

Joe Trodden, ICE Retail’s Managing Director, explains, “social enterprise retail brings a different set of benefits to our suppliers and customers. We view our makers as part of our community, supporting them with advice and regular workshops. Our customers like that the work comes from Scotland and that our profits go back to something positive; in our case helping young people and supporting artists and makers. We create a different and more personal relationship with a large number of our customers who give us repeat business and see the purchase as more than a simple transaction”.

Social enterprise retailers in the city will soon become even more visible with the introduction of a new Friday market in Waverley Station. The market, which is being set up by LocalMotive Markets, will provide a hub for social enterprises and other local and ethical businesses to sell their products to visitors to the city and local people

who live and work in the area. On the last Friday of every month, a dedicated social enterprise market will take place. Shoppers will have a chance to buy a range of social enterprise products from arts and crafts to jams and chutney. LocalMotive Markets is itself a partnership of two social enterprises: Edinburgh Markets and Hand Up Media.

Vicky MacDonald of Edinburgh Markets said “We want the market to showcase the amazing products and services that local ethical businesses, including social enterprises, have to offer. Over 22 million people use Waverley train station every year and we want to give them an alternative shopping experience that brings all the variety, passion and creativity of the local entrepreneurial spirit under one roof ”.

Businesses in Scotland that want to describe themselves as a social enterprise, must meet the Social Enterprise Code (www.se-code.net). There are around 130 social enterprises in Edinburgh selling 30 different products and services.You can find them on Edinburgh Social Enterprise Network’s online directory at: www.socialbuy.co.uk

Should your business have a Shareholders’ Agreement? shareholdings in circumstances such as divorce or the death of other shareholders. All these issues can cause immense difficulties within a company if the shareholders do not make sufficient provision within the Shareholders’ Agreement.

More often than not it is a document that will be filed in a drawer and never looked at again however it can be the most important document ever used when certain events occur.

A shareholder within the business wants to leave; can they sell their shares to anyone?

For Example: What happens if shareholders have a serious disagreement within the business?

By George Primrose, Managing Partner, Condies Chartered Accountants and business advisers.

If you are forming a company with more than one shareholder it is imperative to have a Shareholders’ Agreement in place. This document contains the rules by which the shareholders agree to operate the company and in general terms provides the basis of a legal agreement between them.

A Shareholders’ Agreement is there to ensure that decisions are taken by consensus and discussion rather than any one person imposing them, or doing the opposite to what has been agreed. It will provide clarity and certainty as to what can or cannot be done within the company, limiting the areas where there might be conflict, and most importantly provides a framework for dispute resolution, exit strategy for shareholders, and resolution of

In most cases where people work together there will be times when they disagree and common sense and tolerance will resolve the issues. However these may not always be enough to end a dispute where a specific action is required. A Shareholders’ Agreement will force an end to a dispute, by providing a structure within which the shareholders have to accept. In the event of a stalemate situation a Shareholders’ Agreement will provide a procedure to allow the parties to go their own ways.

What happens if the majority shareholder within the business dies or is divorced?

The spouse of the majority shareholder may take his or her place. This can be a difficult situation as the spouse often has no operational experience within the business, causing a difficult dilemma for the business.

A Shareholders’ Agreement will provide a mechanism by which the other shareholders

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have first right of refusal to purchase the deceased’s shares. In the instance of a shareholder getting divorced, there could be a situation whereby a potentially hostile spouse could become involved in the business at things such as statutory board meetings. A robust Shareholders’ Agreement can prevent this from happening.

In the absence of a Shareholders’ Agreement this is possible. Notwithstanding that this may not be in the best interests of the business. A common provision for this situation is a right of first refusal. This means that if a shareholder obtains a commitment from an outside party to purchase shares, the shares have to be offered under the same terms to the existing shareholders for a specified period. If the other shareholders do not want shares to go to the outside party, they must match the price and purchase. This ensures that the on-going shareholders cannot have an unwelcome new shareholder forced upon them and into the business.

In summary; many events throughout life are out with most people’s control. Therefore it is critical that formal provision is made for, if and when things occur that can threaten the on-going survival and success of your company. A robust Shareholders’ Agreement drawn up at the company’s formation is the safest way of ensuring this.

Please note that this article does not constitute formal advice and clients should seek professional advice prior to taking any action.

EDINBURGH MAILING SERVICES LTD info@edinburghmailingservices.co.uk Tel: 0131 552 4085 Fax: 0131 551 5145 24 New Broompark Edinburgh EH5 1RS For more information or a Free Quotation don’t hesitate to contact us.

Tel: 0131 552 4085 June/July 2014

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ADVERTORIAL

No matter the size of your business, we can help you promote your trade.

Burning Horseshoe Productions is an Edinburgh-based film and video production company, providing services throughout Scotland and across the UK. With two directors and an extensive network of professional contacts the team can take on projects of any scale and deliver the highest quality. Their individual experience covers all aspects of film and television production.

Renate Farkas and Adam Ordog established the company after their first short film won the Van Gogh World Cinematography Award

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at the 2012 Amsterdam Film Festival. Since then Burning Horseshoe has produced several short film projects that had been recognized at prestigious international events such as the Cannes International Film Festival, Edinburgh Short Film Festival. They were screened at various UK-film festivals, also in Germany, the Netherlands and France.

After attending a session on Interactive Media at the 2013 Edinburgh Film Festival Renate had started working on the idea of an interactive tourist app featuring the history of Old Edinburgh. In co-operation with Paisley University Burning Horseshoe applied for the Scottish Founding Council’s Innovation Voucher Scheme and won a grand to develop an Edinburgh guide app.

of a digital future, created by Scottish artists and game developers; also, to co-operate with local businesses in order to boost their revenue. It will be a cross platform app, playable on both iOS and Android devices.

The app is under development and is going to be released this summer.

For further information visit our website: www.burninghorseshoe.co.uk or follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/ BurningHorseshoe and Twitter @BurninHorseshoe

The aim is to create an interactive experience for locals and tourists based on the advantages

Capitalview

Ian Craig

Integrating transport for an expanding Edinburgh The capital is growing. Since 1983, Edinburgh’s population has increased by 14% and in the next 20 years, it is expected to grow by a further 19%. This expansion is testament to how attractive the city is as a place in which to live and work. It also highlights a level of confidence and optimism about the future of Edinburgh.

But we all know that our streets are already very busy with vehicles, moving this growing population around.Yes, this is a challenge but the choices for Edinburgh’s transport infrastructure are as much about enabling economic prosperity as they are about practical logistics.

Parts of the city have been transformed beyond recognition in the last thirty years with several prominent locations about to experience the same level of change imminently, such as at Caltongate and Haymarket. As businesses and investors consider the potential for other parts of the city, transport options that fully integrated into the visions for those sites will be a key factor in decision making.

One obvious example is the tram line between the airport and York Place and its role in opening up new opportunities along a western corridor. The Council has also indicated that it is keeping its options open for continuing the line, as originally planned, to Leith and the waterfront, while others have also commented on extension even beyond that.

Our priority will always be to improve the passenger experience across the board, from integrated, smart ticketing to bringing in more low carbon buses for a quieter, cleaner journey. But in coming months and years, Transport for Edinburgh can also work as an umbrella brand for integrated travel in the city, including ‘active’ modes such as cycling and walking.

However, my responsibility is to focus on successfully operating the tram service in itself and as part of an integrated offering with our buses. As I write, pre-launch, we are well on track with our preparations and the route testing going very much to plan. I hope that, by the time you read this, you will have had the opportunity to take a journey on the tram and seen for yourself how it will help to usher in a new era of transport in Edinburgh.

So, we are actually on two journeys at once.

The first is to make the very best of our tram, bus and other modes available just now, and to continue innovating in service delivery. The second is to anticipate what infrastructure and facilities future generations will need and to begin preparing for that now.

Indeed, the tram represents not just a practical evolution in how we move around the city, but also signals how much Edinburgh values innovation, investment and connectivity.

Taken together, the vision is simple: to provide world-class environmentally-friendly and socially-inclusive transport that helps Edinburgh maximise the potential of its people and its economy.

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Memberbenefits

Businesses must start helping themselves to lower bills Doug Reilly, Business Development Manager for the Utilitywise Energy Partnership with Edinburgh Chamber says there is a still a huge amount of work that can be done by businesses to educate their staff to reduce energy consumption.

Asking people not to waste energy can sometimes seem like a very well-worn message. Indeed, anybody who went to school in the 1980s will remember seeing stickers above light switches reminding them to “switch off when they leave”.Yet the message still has relevance as reducing your energy consumption leads to lower energy bills and helps reduce your carbon footprint.

However, it is often not clear where your efforts should be targeted. Unless you know where, when and how much energy is being used you can waste your time and money in pursuing energy saving measures that do not have the impact you need.

This is where Utilitywise’s Utility Insight system fits in. This is a web-based utility reporting platform, once it is fed with data from Utilitywise’s monitoring systems and your water and energy meters you can see

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how much power, gas and water your sites are using.

Get help with your utilities and find out more about Utility Insight.

The system allows you to view the consumption for all your sites, then zoom into an individual buildings, then area inside a building them further down into an individual circuit. At the circuit level a managers can see which strip of lights use the most energy, or whether the accounts team is using more than the marketing department. The University of Bradford’s School of Health Studies, used the system to help reduce energy bills by 33% by using it to target the areas that were using the most energy.

Telephone 0191 425 4748 or email edinburgh@utilitywise.com for more information.

It is essential to find ways to give people just the right amount of information, so that they know their efforts aren’t wasted, and so that they can monitor their own performance and improve it if necessary.

http://www.utilitywise.com/become-apartner/edinburgh-chamber-commerce/

Doug Reilly

Legal eagles swoop to help in Edinburgh & Glasgow schools Partners and staff from Anderson Strathern have recently taken up the opportunity to get involved in various school events designed to raise awareness amongst pupils of the different career opportunities available to them.

So far this year, the firm – along with other members of Scottish Business in the Community – has visited three schools in Edinburgh and Glasgow to take part in the initiatives which prepare young people for the next step in their lives.

Of her involvement in helping pupils write a CV at Craigroyston Community High School in Edinburgh, partner Fiona Stephen said:“I really enjoyed meeting the young adults at the school. I was impressed by their ambition and focus on what they needed to achieve to realise that.”

Knowledge, attended the event at Wester Hailes Education Centre and said: “I volunteered as I thought it would be helpful to show school kids that it’s not just lawyers who work in law firms and there are other vital roles. We hosted 40 minute sessions with groups of pupils, discussing Anderson Strathern and the skills needed for the world of work. The pupils enjoyed the sessions, particularly getting to act out an employment tribunal, and it was great to talk to them about what they wanted to do in the future.”

Robert Carr, Chairman of Anderson Strathern said: “I am delighted that our team has been able to provide useful advice and support to pupils in Glasgow and Edinburgh. Anderson Strathern fully supports participation in such worthwhile activities and I would like to wish all the young people who took part the best of luck for their future careers.”

Naomi Truscott, Information Officer at Anderson Strathern and part of the team that produces our daily property newsletter, Sector

City hotel wins conference accolade Ten Hill Place Hotel has received the Conference Hotel of the Year Award at the Scottish Hotel Awards at the Sheraton, Edinburgh.

E f f i c i E n t. . . fA s t. . . r E l i A b l E . . . s A f E

This recognises the Hotel as an integral part the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh Commercial Enterprises. Conferences for up to 500 can be held within the beautiful rooms of the Playfair Building, the contemporary space in the Quincentenary Building and the cleverly designed auditorium in the King Khalid Building. A new event space is due to open in November 2014 with access from the gardens of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh and this further enhances the property portfolio on offer. The Events Team are highly skilled and offer a very professional support to all events from start to finish.

Ten Hill Place Hotel offers excellent 4-star accommodation and a welcome relaxing environment in the evenings for both speakers and delegates. It has an a la carte restaurant and a contemporary wine bar serving excellent wines and local beers.

Mr Scott Mitchell, Commercial Director said “We are delighted with this award which recognises the variety of venues we have on offer, of which Ten Hill Place Hotel is an important part, and the commitment shown by all our staff ”.

All the venues and the Hotel are owned by The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, one of the oldest medical incorporations in the world, with a history stretching back over 500 years. The College provides education and assessment for medical students, surgical trainees and consultants and supports research to advance standards of care for the future. Surgeons trained and assessed through the College here in Edinburgh bring life-saving and life-changing skills to all corners of the globe. Profits from the hotel are invested back into supporting the activities of the College and its Fellows and Members around the world.

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Colin Linton Management Consultant Today’s commerce projected forward for a successful future.

Our company founder, Colin Linton, proudly runs this small consultancy firm from home, after 20 years of developing his knowledge of business enterprise.

He attended Napier University, where he pursued a research project with the outcome of the European Union to 2010. This had the moral support of the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce, who shared the material obtained from other European institutions.

Our award winning* service will keep your business moving.

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Seeing all of the results from these plans coming true, he has projected further forward to 2020. Prior to this research, he made a point of going to study business development in America. He embraced this study three times, once in 1990, and then for an additional two years in London and the South East of England. Here he became involved with change, creativity, marketing new opportunity, and politics.

The experience and skill that he developed over these years of study and research led him to the establishment of this business. He decided to devote his knowledge and present experience of the bookbinding industry to establish longterm strategies for small and medium businesses that will help get them on the map. He looks forward to helping you research your business goals. Call us now.

Call Colin Linton Management Consultant of Dalkeith, Midlothian, for accredited management consultancy and business advice that will help get your business to where it deserves to be.

Flat 2, 135 High Street, Dalkeith EH22 1BE Tel: 0131 660 5019 E-mail: colinlinton283@btinternet.com www.lintonmanagementconsultant.co.uk

Tel: 01315164 481 www.watermans.ws *Law Awards of Scotland 2013: Firm of the Year (under 40 fee earners) and Up and Coming Firm of the Year 2013

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Businessnews

New-look hotel opens The newly rebranded DoubleTree by Hilton Edinburgh City Centre was officially unveiled at a glamorous opening event.

hotel also has a 24-hour fitness centre with cardio equipment and free weights.

Located on Bread Street, the former St Cuthbert’s Co-Operative building, which dates back to 1892 and went on to become The Point Hotel, has been transformed, following a £4.2 million renovation managed by Scottish-based hotel management company, Redefine|BDL Hotels.

The hotel is home to a conference venue for up to 200 guests, three additional meeting rooms and the exclusive penthouse which features an outdoor decking area with panoramic views of the historic city skyline, the Castle and the River Forth, which makes it ideal for unique events that make an impression. There is also a 24-hour business centre to ensure the corporate traveller gets the most out of their stay.

The 138-guestroom property is located in Edinburgh’s historic old town. With its domed roof, brasserie style restaurant and exclusive, top floor penthouse, offering views of Edinburgh Castle, the newly renovated hotel is set to become one of the city’s most sought after destination venues.

DoubleTree by Hilton Edinburgh City Centre is situated at 34 Bread Street, Edinburgh, EH3 9AF,

The hotel’s stylish guestrooms feature the DoubleTree by Hilton Sweet Dreams Sleep Experience, sumptuous furnishings and WiFi, with the “deluxe” rooms and suites offering spectacular views of the iconic castle and beyond. Dining options include the intimate “Monboddo” bar where express lunch and delights such as cocktails and cupcakes are a firm favourite. The “Bread Street Brasserie”, is the hotel’s atmospheric restaurant tastefully decorated in teal and rosewood furnishing, serving a range of mouth watering dishes with an emphasis on freshness and flavour.

In addition, on the first Thursday of every month, the hotel transforms its Penthouse venue into a Skybar, Edinburgh’s best kept secret, where guests and locals can marvel at the panoramic views of the city, take a breather on the roof top terrace complete with cocktail in hand. The

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Knowledge Transfer in Spotlight Technology consultancy FarrPoint, is joining forces with Edinburgh Napier University on a brand new Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP), which will see them explore new ways of identifying cyber security threats.

The Partnership comes into effect this summer and will see FarrPoint actively recruit an Edinburgh Napier University graduate to a two-year research programme.

With the support of Edinburgh Napier University, academic sponsors of the project, FarrPoint will work alongside the graduate as they research the potential for computer programmes to have greater autonomy over the detection of potential threats.

The partnership between the two will allow FarrPoint access to resources to maximise the potential of the research project. The research and its findings will subsequently allow FarrPoint to give clients a brand-new and unique perspective on cyber security matters.

Neil Anderson, leading the project for Farrpoint, said: “We are thrilled to be working closely with Edinburgh Napier University on this valuable research project. Their Institute for Informatics and Digital Innovation is extremely strong and we are confident in finding a firstrate graduate to work alongside us. This is the first time FarrPoint has taken on a graduate to assist with research and we are excited to be helping encourage and develop new talent in this area.”

Prof Bill Buchanan, who will lead the academic research, outlines that “this is an extremely exciting project, as we aim to identity security threats which have not been seen in the wild yet, and use machine learning to spot these. As was seen with Heartbleed, the consequences of computer security threats can have serious effects on organisations. Overall we have continued to work with Farrpoint over the past year or so on a number of projects, and this shows their commitment to keeping at the lead edge of current technology.”

Karting for Kids When you wish upon a Star invites teams both Corporate and private to join them in a Karting Endurance Event on the 21 of June 2014 at Extreme Karting in Falkirk. st

Raising sponsorship for children between the ages of 2 and 16 suffering from serious life threatening illnesses to have magical Wishes can be fun and Team building!

The Endurance Challenge hopes to raise £8,000 to support Scottish families who have expressed a Wish to swim with dolphins and visit Disneyland, Florida. They will stay in specially adapted accommodation

belonging to the Charity so we need to raise the money for Flights, Travel Insurance, Park Passes and Car Hire. All other expenses are met by the Family. If you would like to join in in this fun event as a one of 9 Teams we would love to hear from you!

Contact scotland@whenyouwishuponastar. org.uk for more information or stephanie. donaghey@whenyouwish.org.uk

Airline in film deal

Edinburgh International Film Festival (EIFF) has announced Virgin Atlantic as Official Airline Partner for the 68th edition of the Festival.

As part of the deal,Virgin Atlantic will fly many of the high profile industry figures and invited guests associated with this year’s Festival into the city, from 18 – 29 June 2014 on its domestic service Virgin Atlantic Little Red. The leading British airline has also been announced as title sponsor of the EIFF Short Film programme and will present the Virgin Atlantic Little Red Award for Best Short Film at the Festival, named in recognition of Little Red – Virgin Atlantic’s domestic flight service which launched last year flying passengers from Edinburgh, Aberdeen and Manchester to London Heathrow then onto Virgin Atlantic’s worldwide destinations.

Graeme Davies, Head of Communications and Development at EIFF, said, “We are delighted to welcome Virgin Atlantic as the Official Airline Partner for this year’s Festival.

This partnership will allow us to bring audiences and filmmakers together to share in the Festival experience and without their invaluable support as a commercial partner, we simply could not deliver the range of guests and events that we do.”

Lynne Isted, Sponsorship Manager at Virgin Atlantic, said, “This is the first year we have worked with the EIFF and, with Virgin Atlantic’s passion for providing great film and entertainment for our customers, as a partnership, it is a perfect fit for us.We are really looking forward to bringing a splash of red to Edinburgh – it’s such a vibrant city and really key for Virgin Atlantic, especially since the launch of our domestic service Little Red last year.”

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ADVERTORIAL

Japanese Knotweed (Fallopia japonica)

Getting to the root of the problem by Graham Rudd, Co-Founder & Business Manager, Invasive Weeds Agency Ltd Since 1981, it has been illegal in the UK to plant or otherwise cause to grow Japanese knotweed in the wild yet it has only been in recent years that the public has become aware of this non-native invasive weed. Banks and building societies have taken notice of the problems that Japanese knotweed can cause and as a result many of them restrict or refuse to lend money for properties affected by this plant. As a consequence, many property sales have fallen through and people have become increasingly frustrated by Japanese knotweed.

A myth has been perpetuated that it is nearly impossible to kill and that it will spread so quickly that it will smother everything in its path. As a result, there has been a recent surge in companies claiming to be experts and purporting to know a magic formula for eradicating this weed. The prices being quoted for treatment of Japanese knotweed in a garden could be anywhere from £100 to more than £1 million. With astronomical prices being estimated nationwide by unqualified tradesmen, it is time learn more about Japanese knotweed and the ways to tackle it in order to protect your own or your client’s investment.

the plant develops it produces small red/green shield-shaped leaves growing from the stem’s many distinct raised nodes or ‘knots’. Once mature, the leaves become a vibrant green colour reaching lengths of up to 120mm. The red/green stems of adult Japanese knotweed have a hardy bamboo-like appearance and grow in thick clumps or ‘stands’. During the months of August, September and October, creamy white flowers are produced, growing in clusters at the end of the stems. After flowering, the plant sheds its leaves and dies off, the stems become hollow brown skeletal remains that are brittle and easily broken. The dead stems often remain upright amongst new growth during the following season.

What is Japanese knotweed?

Why is Japanese knotweed a problem?

Japanese knotweed (Fallopia japonica) is a rhizomatous, perennial plant that grows throughout much of the UK. As its name suggests, Japanese knotweed is a native to Japan and it was introduced to the UK during the mid 19th century for its ornamental value. Due to its desirability, gardeners planted Japanese knotweed at locations all over the British Isles. By the start of the 20th century, the knotweed’s invasive nature was observed as the species escaped the confines of gardens and spread into the wild. Today, Japanese knotweed is recognised as one of the most invasive species present in the UK and it is notorious for rapidly spreading and causing substantial damage to areas where it grows.

Being a non-native species in the United Kingdom, Japanese knotweed is able to grow rapidly and in many cases dominate its surrounding environment. Unaffected by natural controls such as predators and diseases that target the native flora, Japanese knotweed infestations can quickly spread. Japanese knotweed is classed as an invasive weed in the UK and is listed in Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, making it an offence to ‘plant or otherwise cause to grow in the wild’. Japanese knotweed is classed as controlled waste, which means disposal is restricted to designated landfill sites licensed to receive this weed. Removing Japanese knotweed from a site requires a waste carriers licence therefore domestic homeowners cannot simply dig it up and take it to a landfill site.

What does Japanese knotweed look like?

Other legislation surrounding Japanese knotweed includes: • Wildlife and Natural Environment (Scotland) Act 2011 (asp 6) Part 2-Wildlife under the 1981 Act • Environmental Protection Act 1990 (EPA 1990) • Waste Management Licensing Regulations 1994 What damage can Japanese knotweed cause?

Japanese knotweed is able to colonise a variety of urban and rural environments as it will grow in most soil types and it is fiercely competitive with surrounding species. Due to its ability to exploit weaknesses in construction material, such as concrete and tarmac, new knotweed growth can cause damage to structures and roads thus affecting the value of property as it rapidly develops. Japanese knotweed grows particularly well along riverbanks and it is able to colonise large areas because the waterways act as a distribution route for stems

Japanese knotweed emerges as small asparaguslike shoots that are red/green in colour. As

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How much will it cost to eradicate?

The calculations below are based on an area of Japanese knotweed 5m x 5m, excavated to a depth of 2m with an additional 4m buffer zone around the perimeter. An insurance backed guarantee for work may be an additional charge depending on the duration of guarantee required.

and rhizomes as they get carried downstream.

Damage to flood defences may occur and there have been instances of Japanese knotweed restricting waterways resulting in flooding.

Ecosystems can be disrupted by the presence of Japanese knotweed as it can starve the surrounding native plants of resources, seriously impacting on the delicate balance of local food chains.

The financial damage caused by Japanese knotweed has increased dramatically over the past few years with many mortgage applications being refused due to the perceived threat that Japanese knotweed may have to properties in close proximity to an infestation.

It is commonplace for house sales to fall through as a result of surveyors identifying Japanese knotweed, sometimes inaccurately, at a property; however, this situation can be resolved by appointment of a specialist company to eradicate the infestation. In 2003, DEFRA estimated that it would cost the UK more than £1.5 billion to eradicate Japanese knotweed on a national scale.

How can you eliminate Japanese knotweed?

Japanese knotweed infestations can be controlled and eliminated through a variety of methods, depending on factors such as timescale, location of the infestation and its surrounding environment. Due to the potentially high costs involved with some methods, often the main factor governing the control strategy is money.

not to attempt to move or break the stems or uproot the plant. Take measures to prevent access to the infestation.

Can I eliminate Japanese knotweed myself?

It is highly recommended that any attempt to control Japanese knotweed should only be carried out by trained and qualified persons.

Due to the highly invasive nature of the plant, its complete eradication may require the use of potentially harmful chemicals that could put the user and the surrounding environment at risk if incorrectly applied. If the control relates to the sale of a property it is usually necessary to appoint a professional contractor who offers an insurance-backed guarantee to ensure funding by a mortgage lender.

Where can I find a qualified and competent company?

Treatment

Timescale

Cost (£)

Herbicide treatment

1- 3 years

2,000 – 4,000

Off Site Disposal

1 Day

8,000 – 10,000

Screening

2 Days

4,000 – 5,000

Burial

2-3 Days

5,000 – 6,000

Bund (relocation & herbicide)

2 Days

4,000 – 5,000

Cutting

5+ years

Not commercially viable

Burning

1-2 Days

6,000 – 8,000

Biological

Unknown

Not commercially viable

How do I prevent Japanese knotweed spreading?

Japanese knotweed spreads through fragments of rhizome and cut stems, capable of producing new shoots and roots when buried in soil. It only takes a piece of rhizome 0.7g to generate into a new plant, however, not all rhizomes this small will regenerate. This vegetative material can be carried far and wide, completely unnoticed on the sole of a shoe or the tracks of construction vehicles. If Japanese knotweed growth has been discovered it is important

Invasive Weeds Agency is has achieved the highest standards for weed control- BASIS Amenity Assured and BASIS Advanced Contractor Certification Scheme. IWA is a member of The Invasive Non-Native Specialists Association (www.innsa.org), the trade organisation for Japanese knotweed consultants and contractors. IWA offer insurance backed guarantees for Japanese knotweed eradication, ensuring the client’s peace of mind once the work has finished.

Where can I find out more about Japanese knotweed?

The Internet has a wide range of information on Japanese knotweed but beware of scaremongering!

Visit japaneseknotweed.com for identification, treatment options, videos, news, legislation and more.

The main methods of control are: n Herbicide Treatment n Off Site Disposal (Dig & Dump) n Screening n Burial n Bund (Relocation & Herbicide) n Root Barrier n Cutting n Burning n Biological Control

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Businessnews Lothian bus success Lothian Buses has released audited financial information which shows that 2013 was the company’s most successful year in recent history.

The release, which comes ahead of the publication of the company’s annual report, sets out 2013 revenues at more that £132m compared with £122m in 2012.This translates into a net profit of £8.5m, an increase of 7.8% over the previous year.

Patronage exceeded 115m journeys, four million more than in 2012 and the highest recorded for over 25 years. A survey by Passenger Focus recorded an overall passenger satisfaction rate of 96%, the highest of any operator surveyed across the UK. The success will allow further investment in new technologies, the development of its position at the centre of Edinburgh’s economy and communities and will ensure the company is resilient in the face of future challenges. The company will pay a dividend of nearly £3.3m to local authority shareholders.

Chair of Lothian Buses Ann Faulds said: “Lothian Buses sits at the centre of life in Edinburgh and the Lothians and is at the top of the tree when compared with other operators. Financial performance is very good and this year we’re reporting on one of the most successful years in the company’s history.

“This high level of performance is particularly impressive as it comes at a time of significant change and development for the company.

“The company has risen to the challenges and I’d like to congratulate our CEO, Ian Craig and his team for what they have achieved.

However, we’re not complacent and as a board we’ll continue to scrutinise performance and challenge our executive team to maintain these very high standards into the future.”

Transport for Edinburgh Chief Executive Ian Craig said: “2013 was a hugely significant year for us, one full of opportunities and challenges and I’m delighted that we’ve come through so successfully. This was no mean feat and I’d like to thank everyone in the company for their efforts.

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International travel drives capital success Leading chauffeur drive company Little’s has announced a rise in its international business.

New contract acquisitions in Eastern and South East Asia have resulted in the company entering new markets including Japan, South Korea, Malaysia and the Philippines.

“We can demonstrate first rate financial performance, engineering and operational quality as well as a new tram operation which has been developed and delivered in time for service launch this month.

“We look forward now to a new era for Lothian Buses, one where skills and experience are shared with Edinburgh Trams to ensure that Edinburgh’s developing public transport offer remains on a successful course into the future.”

Transport Convener Cllr Lesley Hinds said: “Lothian Buses continue to demonstrate that they are going from strength to strength – they really are the best bus company in the UK and Edinburgh and the Lothians can be proud of that. Financial performance is strong, service quality is high and passengers are happy.

“We set the company a big challenge last year – to maintain a high level of performance for the benefit of the city and to set up a team qualified, experienced and talented enough to run Edinburgh’s new tram service.

“As we push towards tram launch at the end of the month I’m delighted that both bus and tram operations are such a strong position to thrive as an integrated offer under Transport for Edinburgh.”

The Lothian Buses engineering department achieved a first time MOT pass rate of 99.7%, high rates of reliability and cleanliness and increased its investment in environmentally friendly hybrid technology.

On the operations side, passengers reported some of the highest levels of satisfaction with punctuality and customer service in the UK and close management and development of routes and a focus on passenger needs can be closely associated with increased revenues.

The global business travel specialist has also reported a substantial increase in new contracts in key business travel locations across China, Singapore and Hong Kong, helping the company to exceed its growth forecasts for the year.

Heather Matthews, Managing Director of Little’s, said: ‘The business travel market and tourism sector is currently booming in Asia, so for us to break through in a number of new destinations and build our market share in some of the countries where we already do business is a real boost for the company.’

The financial sector has been largely driving demand in these regions. For companies with headquarters in the UK, US or Europe it can be difficult during office hours to book business travel in countries across Asia with such different time zones, a difference of ten hours ahead for example can be very restricting.

Together with 24 hour international support, Little’s manages all global travel requirements, providing clients with just one point of contact, streamlining the booking process and saving valuable time.

Consultancy group Oxford Economics and Amedeus Travel recently reported that “China and other emerging markets are the main forces that will drive the travel industry, which is expected to grow at a faster rate than the global economy over the next decade.” For these reasons Little’s aims to continue increasing its international presence, whilst still investing at home in terms of its own UK signature fleet and specialist chauffeur training.

Little’s’ international business has been in growth for the past few years, with contracts building in key destinations for business travellers – including the Middle East (such as UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman and Bahrain), North America, South America, Africa and across Europe.

New swiss service from Edinburgh Edelweiss, Switzerland’s leading leisure airline, inaugurated its new nonstop service today from Edinburgh to Zurich that will operate twice per week during the summer season (Mondays/Fridays).

“We are very excited to add Edinburgh to our network”, says Karl Kistler, Edelweiss Chief Executive Officer and captain who piloted the inaugural flight on 16 May 2014 himself.

“Our two weekly flights throughout the summer season from May till October will carry approximately 8’000 passengers to Scotland and will have a significant impact on incoming tourism from Switzerland and other connecting markets.”

Gordon Dewar, Chief Executive of Edinburgh Airport, said: “We’re pleased to welcome Edelweiss to Edinburgh and celebrate the launch of their new service to Zurich. Zurich represents an important business link and this new route will offer passengers even more choice of how they travel.

Switzerland is also a popular tourist destination and we’re delighted to be working with Edelweiss to offer Scottish passengers the chance to visit this beautiful country. Of course with the fantastic summer of sport and culture we’re about to enjoy, we’re looking forward to welcoming many Swiss visitors to Edinburgh.”

Edelweiss, sister carrier of Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS), will operate the new non-stop flight with an Airbus A320, featuring 12 business class and 150 economy class seats.The schedule on the Edinburgh-Zurich route is as follows::

Monday WK311/LX8311 12.05.14-20.10.14 EDI-ZRH 08:55-12:10 A320 Monday WK310/LX8310 12.05.14-20.10.14 ZRH-EDI 06:50-08:10 A320 Friday WK311/LX8311 16.05.14-17.10.14 EDI-ZRH 08:55-12:10 A320 Friday WK310/LX8310 16.05.14-17.10.14 ZRH-EDI 06:50-08:10 A320 Together with Swiss International Air Lines, Edelweiss offers attractive connecting opportunities via convenient Zurich Airport throughout Europe and beyond. Edelweiss flights from Edinburgh can be booked at www.swiss.com or through any travel agency.

For more information, visit www.flyedelweiss.com About Edelweiss Since 2008, Edelweiss is a member of the Lufthansa Group and sister company to Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS). More than 1.3 million passengers a year enjoy flying with Edelweiss, Switzerland’s leading leisure airline, to the world’s most beautiful holiday destinations.The Edelweiss head office is at Zurich Airport with Karl Kistler serving as Chief Executive Officer. Edelweiss’s motto “Der Sonne entgegen” (Flying to the Sunshine) means not only over forty top destinations reached non-stop from Zurich, but also embodies the warmth and cordiality with which Edelweiss passengers are welcomed on board. In recent years, Edelweiss has earned numerous awards for the high quality of its services.The airline’s globally distinctive mark is the famous alpine flower which adorns the Swiss mountain peaks and represents the “little extra” that makes Edelweiss so special.

Other new Edelweiss destinations launched in 2014 are Las Vegas, USA and Havana, Cuba.

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ADVERTORIAL

Edinburgh Executive Carriages creating the ultimate customer experience Extremely passionate about creating the ultimate customer experience, Edinburgh Executive Carriages Ltd luxurious executive chauffeur service ensure that every journey with them is a memorable one.

Paul Scott, Director states “I knew there were many chauffeur companies, but I could see there was an opening in the market for a company that could provide a superior service”. Truly passionate about his company, he lives and breathes it. “I wanted my company to be a success for my three girls (aged 3,2 and 7 months). I wanted them to have a father they could be proud of and create a family business”.

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Specialising in travel for business executives, Edinburgh Executive Carriages also provide, golfing trips, wedding cars and sightseeing tours. “I get to meet the most interesting and inspiring people, most of whom live their lives in and out of airports, travelling all over for the world for business, what is really important to them is that they can be guaranteed to have a friendly face waiting for them when they step of the plane to take them home to their families. A lot of our clients also use our services to look after their own clients, they put their trust and faith in us and it is essential that we never let them down.”

Clients such as Hew Matheson CBE, entrepreneur and owner of St Johns Road dental practice in Corstorphine, Gordon Samson, Managing Director of Williams Lea (part of the DHL Group) and Colette Grant of Grant Property are among a long list of clients of CEO’s, Chairman and Directors.

Reliability, Punctuality, Immaculate appearance, courteous and impeccable manners are all qualities that are essential if you wish to work for Edinburgh Executive Carriages. “No matter how large my company grows I will always keep a hands on approach to ensure that our high standards are maintained. I think I must have one of

the best jobs in the world, getting to drive luxury cars, meeting such interesting people and travelling. I can’t wait to get up in the morning to see what journeys I have ahead of me that day.”

It could all have been such a different story, as Paul was diagnosed with having a Sarcoma (a rare form of cancer) in 2012 after a biopsy revealed that a lump in his side was cancerous.

It took a while to get diagnosed as it was so rare, but when it was diagnosed, it was a huge shock. My own beloved father had died a few years before of throat cancer after a long battle, leaving my dear mother after a marriage of 50 years, but I never thought I would be leaving my own wife at such an early age. I was only 41. We had not long had our second little girl and I used to watch them in their beds whilst they slept peacefully wondering if I would be able to see them grow up, see them getting married and living their lives. I had looked after them both since they were three months old, whilst my wife went to work. This had given me such a very special bond with them, they were my life, and I just couldn’t bear the thought of never seeing them again, or being there to protect and look after them.

It was not the fear of dying that was so hard, it was the fear of leaving them. I had many dark days ahead, it unfortunately opened my eyes to what thousands of people have to go through every day. Unfortunately, everyone these days know someone with cancer, but I never had any idea of the full impact cancer had until I was diagnosed. I used to physically shake with fear. It was a horrible, horrible time. Every time I looked at my two little girls the tears would well up in my eyes. How could I leave them, one was only two and the other was only months old. They were always looking for me if I was out, how would they be if I never came home. I couldn’t bear to

think of them crying for me. Mornings were the worst, the thoughts that went through my head when I just woke up and wished it had been a bad dream.

that I have cancer and it turns out not to be.

It still worries me that it could come back, but I guess everyone that has gone through something like this will have the same fears.

The worry as with any cancer was of it spreading, and scans revealed not long before my operation that it hadn’t, so hope started that I was going to be alright. It was so rare, no one could really tell me what was going on. It took what seemed an eternity for the operation as the medical staff did not know what they were dealing with. I attended three hospitals and all staff were amazing, however there was one doctor and his personal assistant that would call myself or my wife and update us as best they could. You can’t underestimate how important people like this are at such a time and we are both very grateful for all their support.

I had set the foundations of the business, doing chauffeuring work for a few years before 2013, building up clients by reputation, but after what happened it gave me the push I needed to take the business to the next level and within a few weeks of the operation we had created a website. One of my existing clients, a highly experienced Chief Executive in the corporate world approached me to become a silent partner. We made the company into a limited company and have never looked back.

Paul Scott

The best news of all came after the operation that amazingly it was not cancerous. It was hard to get my head around it, it still is. I have a piece of paper at home that tells me

My heart goes out to anyone in a similar situation who has children, I was one of the lucky ones, but I know there are sadly many who are not as lucky. Something changed in me after this, I have such a determination to succeed and really make something of my life, especially for my family. You only get one life and I really treasure every day I have on this earth. A few months after my operation, we found out we were having our third little girl, which was a complete surprise to us. At one stage I thought I would never see my girls grow up and now I have another little bundle of joy. I don’t wish to give anyone false hope, but sometimes when all odds seem against you, things can change for the better”.

Edinburgh Executive Carriages continues to grow and with the Ryder Cup and Commonwealth Games it is proving to be a very busy year. “I won’t stop until we are the largest in Scotland whilst still being the best.” www.edinburghexecutivecarriages.co.uk paul@edinburghexecutivecarriages.co.uk

“No matter how large my company grows I will always keep a hands on approach to ensure that our high standards are maintained. I think I must have one of the best jobs in the world, getting to drive luxury cars, meeting such interesting people and travelling. I can’t wait to get up in the morning to see what journeys I have ahead of me that day.”

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THIS FEELING,

HOW ALIVE ARE YOU?

Official fuel economy figures for the Jaguar XF range in mpg (l/100km): Urban from 16.7 (16.9) to 48.7 (5.8). Extra Urban from 32.8 (8.6) to 64.2 (4.4). Combined from 24.4 (11.6) to 57.7

optional extra of metallic paint and 20” alloy wheels at £37,800. Representative 4.9% APR Jaguar Privilege available on new XF models only (excluding 2.2 SE & 2.2 SE Business), registere Limited trading as Jaguar Financial Services, St William House, Tresillian Terrace, Cardiff CF10 5BH. With Jaguar Privilege you have the option to return the vehicle and not pay the final paym We work with a number of creditors to provide finance to our customers, including Jaguar Cars Finance. **This promotion applies to eligible Jaguar XF saloon cars registered between 1st A should be presented to the dealership at time of booking the vehicle in for a service in order to qualify. The promotion is only available at the point of registration of the vehicle in the custo labour for three years’ from the date of invoice up to a maximum of three services (3 years or 48,000 miles diesel / 45,000 miles petrol, whichever is sooner). Scheduled servicing intervals of fitting or repairing accessories and any form of accident damage and non-routine servicing work, parts or labour. The service package is not a warranty package. The free service promo

FROM £299 A MONTH.* JAGUAR XF WITH 3 YEARS FREE SERVICING.**

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*PLUS DEPOSIT AND FINAL PAYMENT. REPRESENTATIVE EXAMPLE†: XF 2.2D LUXURY (163PS) 14MY On the Road Price

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7 (4.9). CO2 emissions from 270 to 129 (g/km). Official EU Test Figures. For comparison purposes only. Real world figures may differ. †The model pictured is an XF R-Sport 200PS with ed between 1st April and 30th June 2014 at participating dealers only. Promotions are not available for used cars. Finance subject to status. Guarantees may be required. Black Horse ment, subject to the vehicle not having exceeded an agreed annual mileage (a charge of 12p per mile for exceeding 8,000 miles per annum in this example) and being in good condition.

April and 30th June 2014 on Jaguar Cars Finance at participating Jaguar dealers. Services must take place at participating Jaguar Authorised Repairers. The “free servicing certificate” omer’s name. The promotion is free to all customers. Free servicing covers scheduled servicing and associated parts (oils, hydraulic fluids, seals, filters, elements and antifreeze) and s are detailed in the vehicle handbook. Excludes wear and tear items such as shock absorbers, exhaust systems, tyres, windscreens, windows, engines, transmissions, electronics, cost otion is only valid for the vehicle purchased. If the customer cancels the finance agreement prior to the first service being due, Jaguar UK reserves the right to cancel the Service Plan.

Real Time Passenger Information (RTPI) Putting passengers in control of their journey’s in South East Scotland bustrackerSEStran uses advanced computer technology to provide updated information on buses as they proceed along their routes. The system, which is accessible via the internet and a free smartphone app (“SEStranbus”, available now from the I-Phone App store & Google Play store), is fully compatible with Edinburgh’s existing RTPI system. Now, for the first time, passengers living outside the city will have access to up-to-the-minute information on local services. bustrackerSEStran has initially been installed on over 300 vehicles operating on selected First Scotland East and Stagecoach services throughout East Lothian, Scottish Borders, Fife and West Lothian, and services between Dumfries & Galloway and Scottish Borders.

Additional services will be added to the system as appropriate. In the longer term, as funds become available, it will grow to include most of the services throughout the South-East of Scotland and integrate with existing and future services in other parts of the country and south of the Border.

Find out how to make bustrackerSEStran work for you by visiting the bustrackerSEStran website at: http://bustrackersestran.co.uk

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ROAD HAULAGE ASSOCIATION LTD

Martin Reid, Director

The Road Haulage Association was established in 1945 and we have been providing clearly defined benefits and specialists services to haulage operators since then.

Together, our members operate tens of thousands of commercial vehicles. We actively campaign on behalf of these members and for the promotion of the haulage industry as a whole. We represent members’ views; give tailored advice and information coupled with developing business services bespoke to the haulage industry. We want to ensure that policy makers understand the vital role of the road haulage industry within our economy while at the same time ensuring our members are compliant with current legislation. We do this through our many services including our Audit Service, or Contracts of Employment and out Conditions of Carriage.

We have successfully lobbied for a freeze on fuel duty through Fair Fuel UK and continue to press for fair payment throughout the supply chain.

Martin Reid MBA CMgr MCMI Director Tel: 0131 333 4900 | Mobile: 07801 500713 Fax: 0131 333 0939 Road Haulage Association Ltd, The Rural Centre, Roadway House, Ingliston, Newbridge, EH28 8NZ

The RHA have offices throughout Britain and ensure our members voices are heard in Westminster, Holyrood, Stormont and Brussels.

My name is Martin Reid and I am the RHA’s Director for Scotland and Northern Ireland and if I, or any of the team here in Edinburgh can help you with any questions you may have regarding the haulage industry, please contact us on 0131 333 4900.

Have you tried the 40/40A service yet?

Route 40/40A operates regular journeys every 10 mins in peak times, every 15 mins throughout the day and every 30 mins in the evenings and all day Sunday.

With great value tickets and free Wi-Fi on board, it’s never been a better time to try the bus for greener, smarter travel!

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Specialreport

Keeping the city moving Edinburgh’s population is estimated at a little under 500,000 people – and that total is projected to grow by about 20% to a staggering 600,000 within the next 20 years.

All testament to the city’s many attractions as a place to live, work and do business. But even so, that success means a whole raft of challenges face the infrastructure of our city –not least in transport.

The growth in population means we need to move more people in, out and around the city.

So how do those involved feel we are coping with our journey to an improved transport infrastructure?

In this special feature, senior figures from out public transport, our air transport and our port will explain what they are doing, and how they are doing, in coping with increased demand. For example, Gordon Dewar at Edinburgh Airport will look at the impact

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that the new tram route has on moving our international airport towards becoming a more integrated transport hub, better placed to serve the city. Forth Ports look at the boom in the number of visitors coming to our city via cruise liners, and ScotRail look at the challenges they will face this year as Scotland hosts a series of events including the Ryder Cup and the Commonwealth Games.

We also hear about the opening of new long haul air routes, and in our Capital View section we hear from the man charged with making sure our long awaited trams are the success we all hope for.

Time is right to highlight good transport It’s hard to believe but it’s that time of year again - hundreds of thousands of people descending on Edinburgh to experience but the world-famous festivals and summer events which Edinburgh does so well.

Hopefully this summer will see more visitors from afar, using the three new long-haul services from United, US Airways and Qatar Airlines now operating flights from Edinburgh to Chicago, Philadelphia and Doha, bringing many more visitors to Scotland. Add to the mix the Commonwealth Games and Ryder Cup, the timing couldn’t be better to highlight the crucial importance of good transport to a city.

But it’s also an interesting time for the airport and one which is seeing significant changes to the city’s transport infrastructure.

Gordon Dewar, Chief Executive, took a moment to chat about how things are going for Scotland’s

busiest airport, and how, with more passengers than ever before, the airport will be contributing to the city’s burgeoning transport network now that the long-anticipated tram is up and running.

He said: “Summer is always an incredibly busy time for us and for many thousands of passengers; our airport is their first experience of Edinburgh and Scotland. With a number of new long-haul routes now in operation, it’s important that when our passengers arrive and depart their travel options are clear, simple and, most importantly, efficient.”

“The launch of the trams has enabled Edinburgh Airport to step that little bit closer to becoming an integrated transport hub where passengers can easily reach any destination, whether by air, tram, bus, taxi or rail.”

The launch of the trams has also allowed Edinburgh Airport to forge new working partnerships and grow the good relationships it already enjoys with city partners. Having a dedicated tram stop less than 100 metres from the entrance to the airport’s new EAST terminal will mean that passengers can reach the airport from the city centre, or vice versa, in as little as 25 minutes.

“The fact that the tram will be able to take you from the airport to Haymarket station in 10 minutes means that the airport now has a fast and direct feed into the country’s wider rail network.”

Having a reliable transport infrastructure doesn’t just improve the lives of city inhabitants. It also adds significantly to the area’s economic and investment potential.

“Edinburgh’s efficient transport network is something we can rely on to help attract new airline business because, at the end of the day, an airline doesn’t just invest in the airport. It invests in the city.”

“Ultimately what we want to do is offer our passengers choice, whether that’s choice of where they can fly to, or choice of onward travel options.

This summer will be a steep learning curve for both of Scotland’s biggest cities with the world’s eyes pointing firmly in our direction. However, having good transport links reflects on the city as a whole and it is our responsibility to ensure they deliver what they say on the tin.”

Success of global network helped by Edinburgh link To which city on its global network of 179 destinations does British Airways fly most often on its daily schedule?

New York? Paris?

Madrid? Frankfurt?

The answer, which may come as a surprise to many, is, in fact, far closer to home. It is Edinburgh.

Not only that, but the Scottish capital is one of only a handful of select destinations on British Airways’ worldwide schedule that is served from all three of the airline’s London hubs, Heathrow, London City and Gatwick.

With up to 24 daily return flights between Edinburgh and the three London airports the city is ahead of international destinations such as New York, Paris, Beijing and Delhi in the number of services British Airways operates on a daily basis.

This schedule is about to increase to 27 a day with the introduction of two more daily return services, operated by BA CityFlyer, between Edinburgh and London City airport and a new direct service to the Mediterranean holiday island of Ibiza.

The additional London City services come into operation on 19 May and will increase the schedule on the route to up to ten return flights a day. Starting on 23 May, the new

Ibiza service will operate from Edinburgh on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, giving sun seekers the option of a short break holiday or a longer stay on one of the Mediterranean’s most popular islands, this is the first service to Europe outside of London in many years.

Headquartered in Manchester, BA CityFlyer is the British Airways wholly owned subsidiary which operates all short haul services to and from London City Airport.

The company was established in 2007 when BA Connect was sold to Flybe and is now the largest airline operating from London City Airport, expected to carry over 1.5 million customers in 2014, with a large proportion of this number on the Edinburgh route. BA CityFlyer employs over 100 staff in Edinburgh; Engineers, Pilots and Cabin crew. With the recently announced expansion, the airline will be investing in an additional 3 new aircraft which enables the growth in the Edinburgh to London City schedule to 10 daily services and in addition creates more jobs in Edinburgh with employee growth of over 10% this year.

The growth on the Edinburgh route will strengthen the links to London with an improved daily schedule, giving greater flexibility to customers. With Edinburgh being the second largest financial centre outside of London it’s important for business customers, but also leisure customers to have a good schedule. This in turn will of course support both business and tourism growth in Edinburgh with all the economic benefits this will bring to the region.

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Specialreport Qatar Airways flight will open up the East

Forth Ports is more than just shipping transport Forth Ports Cruise Forth Ports’ cruise business is seeing the impact of the increasing popularity of cruise holidays at their main Scottish ports in Leith, Dundee, Rosyth and at Anchorage in Queensferry. The appeal of a cruise holiday has increased significantly over the past 10 years with international travellers enjoying world-wide travel from the luxurious comfort of a well-equipped liner. The 2013 season was the busiest yet for Forth Ports with 79 ships and 95,000 passengers being welcomed during the season which runs by and large from April to September. This is a massive economic boost for Scotland and the local areas where to liners call. Transport plays a key part in the onward journeys for cruise passengers whether they are visiting the area for the day and using the tour buses to explore the cities or local towns, or using onward transport to reach airports, rail stations or simply to make their way home by public transport.

Freight Transport - reducing road miles The cruise business is seasonal and the main transport area of Forth Port’s business is managing freight by water. This is a wellknown greener alternative to road or rail and the business is working hard to put more freight onto the waterways to reduce the road miles around the UK. For example countries bordering the Rhine make great use of this waterway for international and domestic

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traffic and it is often thought that the Forth is an underused asset, which if utilised could really bring environmental benefits.

Recent focus on coastal shipping brought the announcement that the UK’s first East Coast feeder service with BG Freight to deliver a new weekly coastal service delivering food and drink products from Italy to the UK market. The new service will call at two ports owned by Forth Ports - Tilbury and Grangemouth - which plays into the key strengths of the group by using their strategically placed ports, warehousing facilities and coastal shipping experience which reduces the congestion and truck miles on the roads.

At one of its smaller ports in Kirkcaldy in Fife, there has been a real success story with Forth Ports partnering with one of the UK’s largest milling companies Carr’s Flour.

Kirkcaldy Harbour was officially re-opened to commercial ships in 2011 after a 20 year gap. The Fife harbour now sees cargo ships calling regularly at the quay to provide the miller of Scotland’s leading flour brands, Carr’s Flour, Scotland with quality wheat from around the UK and Europe. Shipping to the Port, has significantly reduced the truck movements in Kirkcaldy and has taken over 7,200 truck movements off the UK’s roads so far. It has also generated significant interest in the town with many locals enjoy seeing the regular ships manoeuvring in the harbour once again.

The newest international route linking Scotland’s Capital to the world took to the air at the end of May when Qatar Airways flight QR028 took to the skies.

The flight to Doha provides a valuable new route to link Edinburgh with the Middle East – but also links to a hub that will help open up the Far East even more for businesses in Scotland.

The five days a week link was welcomed by First Minister Alex Salmond at its official launch earlier this year: “I am delighted to welcome the new Qatar Airways service between Edinburgh and Doha – the first direct service from Scotland’s capital to the Middle East.

“The Qatar Airways plans for this route are really exciting.When it is launched in May, it will result in a significant shortening in flight times to Asia and Australasia, reducing the need for domestic transfers within the UK and making it easier for travellers all over the world to get to Scotland whether on business or pleasure.

“Opening up direct international routes such as this from Scottish airports is hugely important to the economy, bringing as it does improved business and tourism connectivity, and the Scottish Government and our agencies will be working hard with the airline to ensure the new route is a success.”

Qatar Airways Chief Executive Officer, His Excellency, Mr. Akbar Al Baker met with Mr Salmond, to discuss the launch of the new service and Scotland’s potential growth prospects.

Mr. Al Baker said Scotland’s tourism industry, along with infrastructure developments and potential business opportunities were key factors leading the airline’s decision to begin flying there.

Rail investment delivers capital gains the capital. We have installed wifi on more than 100 trains, allowing passengers to stay connected on journeys between Edinburgh and destinations including Aberdeen, Glasgow, North Berwick, Stirling and the Fife Circle.

“Edinburgh is a key gateway to and from Scotland and an important addition to the Qatar Airways global network. I am pleased to have met some of those leaders helping Scotland to further improve its links to the rest of the world as well as grow its infrastructure. I would like to thank everyone who has helped Qatar Airways develop its new service, especially Edinburgh Airport who have assisted our team throughout.”

The new 787 Dreamliner service is set to significantly reduce journey times from Edinburgh to over 130 destinations around the world on the airlines network.

Flying direct to and from Edinburgh, the Dreamliner has a two-cabin configuration, comprising of 22 seats in Business Class and 232 Economy Class seats with a high standard of comfort on board, including individual 10.5 inch television screens on all Economy Cass seats and a full complimentary food and beverage service.

Passengers will benefit from Qatar Airways’ award-winning inflight hospitality when flying onwards to any of Qatar Airways’ destinations around the world.

Edinburgh will be the airline’s third destination in the UK, preceded by London in 1997 and Manchester in 2003.

DOHA to EDINBURGH: Mondays,Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays QR 027 departs Doha (DOH) at 08:00; arrives Edinburgh (EDI) at 13:15 EDINBURGH TO DOHA: Mondays,Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays QR 028 departs Edinburgh (EDI) at 14:45; arrives Doha (DOH) at 23:40

Wifi’s introduction across the network has been warmly welcomed by our passengers, with more than two million people using it in the first 12 months of introduction.

Whether you want to keep in touch with the office, check the weather forecast - or find out how Scotland’s athletics and golfing stars are getting, our trains are the place to do it.

By Sean Duffy, Commercial Director, First ScotRail This is a year when Scotland will be on the global stage like no other, with more people than ever likely to visit the country to experience the great events being hosted here.

First ScotRail’s preparations for a grandstand year are on track and are already being welcomed by our passengers.

Events like Homecoming, the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games and golf ’s Ryder Cup -on top of annual favourites including the Edinburgh Festival - will ensure that Scotland is a destination of choice. Of course, Edinburgh and the many attractions which the city offers will feature high on the ‘must see’ list of most visitors.

Rail is one of the most popular and reliable ways to travel around Scotland and ScotRail is delivering significant enhancements to its network in and around the capital to further improve our services.

The enhancements will benefit regular rail passengers as part of their daily commute as well as visitors from across Scotland and the rest of the world.

The ability to access the internet is now part of everyday life and we recently rolled out free wifi on trains and at stations across

We’ve already installed wifi at 18 stations and a further 32, including Edinburgh Park, Edinburgh Waverley, Haymarket and North Berwick, will receive it by next spring.

The traditional facilities at our stations haven’t been overlooked and we’re also delivering upgrades at six stations across Edinburgh as part of a nationwide £3 million investment programme by the Scottish Government.

Our enhancement programme includes installing new passenger information screens, which provide ‘live’ details about service arrivals and departures, at Brunstane, Curriehill, Dalmeny, Kingsknowe, Newcraighall and Wester Hailes.

Embracing advances in technology is key to ensuring Scotland’s rail network continues to meet passenger expectations and deliver innovative improvements. The new ticket vending facilities which Edinburgh Waverley will receive includes ticket on departure machines which allow passengers to purchase their tickets online and simply collect them at the station.

Capital gains indeed.

Wi-fi zone

Wi-fi available in this carriage

ScotRail, part of the Aberdeen-based FirstGroup plc, is Official Supporter – Passenger Rail Services at Glasgow 2014. And First Bus is Official Supporter – Bus Services – for the Games. FirstGroup is the leading transport operator in the UK -and North America, with 120,000 employees and transporting more than 2.5 billion passengers a year.

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Inspiringleaders Airline a key part of the transport network easyJet is a critical part of Edinburgh’s transport infrastructure – delivering a massive range of choice and destination both for business and leisure travellers.

With a fleet of 220 Airbus aircraft, the airline is the UK’s largest, and Europe’s four largest, so it should be little surprise to know that easyJet has operated to almost 30 destinations from the Capital over the summer.

New routes to Heraklion and Bodrum contributed to a busy summer at Edinburgh Airport, but existing destinations including Paris, Hamburg, Munich, Geneva and, of course, London and Bristol have proven popular with business and leisure travellers.

And the 12 million business travellers are making up an increasing proportion – around 1 in 5 - of the millions who use easyJet every year. The airline’s UK Commercial Manager, Ali Gayward, explained: “The increase in business travellers flying with easyJet shows that we are delivering on the strategy we launched in 2010 to increase our appeal to the business travel sector. Enhancements like allocated seating, Inclusive Fares and Fast Track security have all played a part in enabling easyJet to attract more high yielding business passengers and to win a larger slice of the corporate market.

“Recession and austerity has also encouraged business passengers across Europe to sample easyJet and when they do so they like the experience and the great value and they tend to stay with us. 95 per cent of passengers travelling on business say they will fly with us again which shows that this focus by businesses on value is here to stay.

“The increase in business travellers could also be seen as an encouraging sign of the

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increasing confidence of businesses across Europe as a number of countries, including the UK, start to edge back into economic growth.”

With a growing population of a little under half a million, with a wider city-region population of more than 1.6 million, there is no doubt that Edinburgh benefits from a number of key factors which ensure the city remains an important part of easyJet’s plans.

The strength of the city’s economy – in particular in financial services, tourism, science and technology and creative industries – ensures strong performance in terms of business travellers, while the city’s status as a leading city break destination is also vital.

Ali said: “Edinburgh has a lot going for it, both in terms of demand from business travellers and also for leisure travellers coming to the city and, of course, making use of our network to travel throughout Europe.

“We remain committed to Edinburgh, and see the city as a key component in our plans to continue to expand our network.”

“We are currently evaluating new routes to add to our network from Edinburgh, which would enable us to both offer passengers in the City new holiday destination, but also include markets for both business travel and indeed inbound tourism. We hope to be able to announce these in coming weeks, once our final analysis is complete.”

Ali is keenly aware that air travel does not operate in isolation, and is encouraged that the new tram link to the airport provides a more integrated transport hub to benefit passengers.

“We are very excited at the benefits to travellers that this development in infrastructure will be bringing, both in terms of the ease with which people from Edinburgh and its surrounding areas can now access the airport, but also given the ease of accessibility this provides for visitors to the region, which can only bring added benefits for all airport users..”

“We remain committed to Edinburgh, and see the city as a key component in our plans to continue to expand our network.”

easyJet facts: Founded in 1995 by Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou Operates more than 600 routes across 30 countries Employs more than 8000 people – including 2000 pilots Last year carried more than 60 million passengers Flies to 44 of Europe’s largest 50 airports Operates a fleet of 220 aircraft with an average age of just four years

Ali Gayward

easyjet UK Commercial Manager

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Asktheexpert Ship To Shore – Change Ahead

By Nigel Souter, t.ward Shipping The shipping market is as always erratic and uncertain and in the changing times of power generation the UK coastal ports are needing to think. On the East coast especially, the offshore wind turbine market is emerging and as the necessity to find suitable port facilities to handle the capacity of large vessels and land which this industry requires there is even more thinking going on. Cockenzie (the old coal fired power station) is being looked at as a new facility as an alternative to established ports which lack sufficient capacity to cope with the new vessels which are employed in the manufacture and shipping for the offshore wind farms.

New facilities are being sought and the Humber is an example of where new ports can and are being developed – Cockenzie has the promise of a nascent port for the new industry as well as present oil and gas business and the future of offshore rig and platform decommissioning. It can be developed to ‘go out’ into deeper water to gain the capacity that these emerging trades require.

The land where the power station and coal storage area used to be can take some of the manufacturing space to build some of the blades, tower, nacelles, castings and gearboxes that are land hungry. Other options at other potential ports and sites are being considered.

Many thousands of turbines will be built and many hundreds of offshore platforms will be decommissioned over the next 5 to 20 years and the size of the component parts simply mean that ‘nothing’ can move by road.

Some of these parts can be manufactured and handled in existing ports but the assembly of the structures need very large facilities to cope. One can look across the Forth from Edinburgh to Methil and see the size of the Samsumg turbine, this is in shallow water and they will get larger as the industry develops, we are going deeper and bigger – it is the new oil and gas industry starting all over again.

The picture is quite similar, offshore structures producing oil and gas with a pipeline running to the shore as opposed to wind turbines producing electricity with a cable running to the shore.

These are fascinating and exciting times. The evolution of alternative energy is upon us and will change what we know, just as the shale gas industry is turning the US energy market upside down with compounding affects of that knowledge across the globe. The cost of all this generation of power is always part of the discussion, but all energy supply is fiscally adjusted as we are becoming to learn so clearly. Put that into the context of Shale, Nuclear and Wind (and other energy sources) and it gets your spreadsheets combusting.

Nigel Souter

As a US economist said when asked – ‘How big is shale gas?’ he replied ’About as big as the world wide web.’ Oh if I was only 30 years younger – what fabulous opportunities and what fun !!

There is something that is certain in the shipping industry and that is change. My company, t. ward shipping ltd have always relished it and being quick on our toes we are reacting.

Document security on agenda Business people in Edinburgh have benefited from advice on improving document and device security as part of a seminar organised

by Capital Document Solutions.

An award-winning office equipment specialist Capital hosted the event, Security & Sauvignon, at the company’s McDonald Road headquarters.

The event, which was attended by a number of senior IT directors and managers from both the private and public sectors, highlighted the importance of securing devices and documents from potential external threats. It also included wine tasting and an informal networking session.

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Run in partnership with German firm Chateaurel GmbH, the seminar was sponsored by technology giant HewlettPackard. It featured engaging presentations – aimed at protecting data and mitigating the risk of security breaches – from keynote speaker Hendrik Herberger, a leading authority on print security, and Graham Thompson, professional services consultant at Capital.

Murray Rudkin, commercial directorat Capital Document Solutions, said: “We were delighted with the feedback we received from delegates who found the seminar engaging and thought provoking – particularly with the warning to protect your

documents and devices against the so-called ‘digital timebomb.’

“I’d personally like to thank everyone who attended as well as our guest speakers, Hendrik and Graham, who helped make the event a resounding success.

“It proved to be a great opportunity for members of our team to meet with existing customers and establish relationships with potential clients, as well as explain the benefits of enhancing security.”

PartnersinEnterprise Auto-enrolment – a big concern for small businesses?

Alan Ritchie Head of SME and New Markets Standard Life We’re halfway through 2014 and well into auto-enrolment, the initiative introduced by the government to encourage the UK to save more for retirement. On 1 April this year, there was the first big spike in employers who reached their staging date – the date by which they must have a qualifying workplace pension in place.

Earlier this year, Standard Life hosted an auto-enrolment seminar alongside Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce. This covered the key things that businesses need to do to meet the regulations, how the changes can impact a business and top tips for creating a successful auto-enrolment strategy. The session had a great turn out – with a good mix of business owners, HR professionals, employment lawyers and financial advisers.

Very soon, it became clear that different businesses have different concerns. Some employers worried about the impact the new rules would have on employees on a temporary contract while others were concerned about the well-publicised capacity crunch in the pensions industry.

On dealing with temporary workers, many employers welcomed the use of waiting periods to minimise administration. Waiting periods involve delaying joining all or groups of employees into the pension scheme, either

at the staging date or an on-going basis.

However, it’s important to remember that when waiting periods are used, it doesn’t delay all employer duties and a workplace pension still needs to be in place in time for the staging date – for example to support employees who choose to join before they’re automatically enrolled.

When it came to the capacity crunch, there were several views on how best to deal with it. With some advisers saying their capacity would be ten businesses at any one time, many employers were considering bringing their staging date forward to the second half of this year when it’s quieter and before the volume of businesses staging really ramps up.

As well as being more likely to find support, some attendees felt that bringing the staging date forward means employers are less likely to be affected by increased prices for services – as one business owner put it, the simple effect of supply and demand.

Although requirements often differ between businesses, there are many similarities. Autoenrolment can be a complicated subject with lots of decisions to make. The one thing that was unanimous at the seminar was how important it was to make the process easy.

Whether that’s the on-going administration (employers’ biggest concern) or removing some of the difficult decisions at the start, the simplicity of a solution is vital and most businesses would rather spend more money on something that’s easy to use instead of saving a few pennies on something more complicated (and more resource intensive) to run.

The other thing that everyone agreed on was that if this is something they have to do, they want to do it properly. That means putting something in place that their employees will value, so the quality of the pension is an important consideration.

There’s some key information that business owners need to be aware of – perhaps the most important being the date they need to comply.You can find out when your staging date is by visiting the Pension Regulator’s website.

For more information on auto-enrolment, visit www.goodtogopensions.com.

Look out for more auto-enrolment events with your Chamber in the coming months. www.goodtogopensions.com

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Vocational Awards – building strength for Scotland’s future

SQA is Scotland’s internationally recognised accreditation and awarding body, trusted to design, develop, quality-assure and manage our national qualifications system.

SQA works in partnership with businesses of all sizes to develop robust and relevant qualifications covering dozens of sectors and industries. Our qualifications offer something for everyone, from recognising the achievements of new-starts right through to the professional development of senior management.

Developing workplace skills

Good for employers, good for individuals

SQA is ambitious for Scotland — a well-trained and qualified workforce is essential for a successful economy.

Alasdair MacRae, Head of Business Development at the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA), explains:

We offer a range of expert services dedicated to delivering business benefits and measurable achievement. Our qualifications are designed to give you a competitive advantage by enhancing your workforce, no matter the size of your organisation or the nature of your business.

“Any business is only as good as it’s people. If staff are trained and qualified then they tend to be motivated and more productive. Many employers notice benefits, including improved bottom-line performance almost as soon as their people start working towards a qualification.”

Recognising Scotland’s Skills The global skills challenge is an increasingly important issue for all nations, but Scotland has recognised that success is not simply about developing a highly educated workforce.

Designed for success

Sustainable growth needs individuals to keep learning throughout their lives. SQA qualifications validate learning and help employers recognise standards of achievement, but they also help develop important skills for learning, life and work.

1. SVQ level 2 is an occupational qualification that forms the core of every Modern Apprenticeship — it can be tailored to individual or industry requirements

Learners can improve their literacy, numeracy, employability, entrepreneurship and critical thinking skills at every level of achievement. They develop the confidence to adapt successfully to change throughout their career.

Modern Apprenticeships Modern Apprenticeships offer anyone over the the age of 16 the chance to train for a job while being paid, without having to enter full-time education.

All Modern Apprenticeships are developed with the industries they are relevant to. The range stretches across key industries including Business and Administration, Energy, Marine, Retail, Hospitality and Healthcare.

Although each Modern Apprenticeship is specific to a particular industry or sector, they all comprise of three elements:

2. Core Skills including Communication, Working With Others, Numeracy, Information Technology, Problem Solving 3. Additional components that are sector specific may be required — including SVQs or Higher National Certificates and Diplomas.

Modern Apprentices are employed from the beginning of their training, developing expertise and knowledge through on-the-job assessment, as well as building vital skills such as teamwork and problem solving. Many Modern Apprentices also attend college or training courses for additional study.

For more information visit www.sqa.org.uk/modernapprenticships

The programme is supported by the Scottish Government, Skills Development Scotland, CBI Scotland, the STUC, the Scottish Training Federation and a wide range of employers.

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

CONFERENCE & EXHIBITION FEATURE

Optimism grows in the world of conferences and exhibitions Another approach for conference originators is to bring in a specialist company to do the legwork.

The staff at these outsource companies will have encountered just about every problem presented by the process and take all the worry away from the company originating the event.

Linked to the conferences and exhibitions market is the need to offer corporate hospitality as part of the package and many conference and events organisers are integrating such attractions into their events.

More and more companies are realising that the sector needs to offer as much value as possible and that is leading to a growing sense of innovation.

One of the things that makes an exhibition successful is a sense that something is happening so it is useful to have staged areas for demonstrations and performances, or for companies to show their products at work.

Such activities, with the interest they attract, makes an exhibition feel like it is alive. All good exhibitions have a touch of theatre about them.

Like the rest of the economy, the conferences and exhibitions industry has been through challenging times but the signs are that the sector is thriving.

That was underlined by a report compiled by the Events Industry Forum and the Business Visits & Events Partnership, which suggested the future could be bright for the industry.

It highlighted opportunities for growth in the UK Events Industry, which it suggested can grow from its existing £36.1 billion, to £42.2 billion in 2015 and £48.4 billion in 2020.

Recent economic figures pointing to an upturn in business confidence will drive that even more, experts believe.

So as business recovers, what are you looking for if you are trying to organise a conference or exhibition and need to select a venue?

One of the key factors, according to industry experts, is a good location, somewhere that is easy to reach and attractive for delegates.

When assessing the venue, other factors come into play as well. Can it cope with the numbers expected to attend, has it got a good meeting room, will it provide equipment like projectors and Internet access, are the staff friendly and flexible in helping you meet your needs?

The good venues are the ones that can tailor themselves to providing the exact needs of the event organisers and are prepared to be flexible.

Their staff are expert and able to bring often complex events together in a skilful way.

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Film | Art | Music | Events/Promotion | Management Infinite Hive began in 2013 to work with creative people allowing them to fully express themselves.

Providing management, funding and arranging events and studio time to help local talented artists in Edinburgh fully realise their artistic visions.

PLANNING A PARTY? Contact Mr John at Infinite Hive www.infinitehive.com John InfiniteHive

/john.infinitehive

@InfiniteHive

infinitehive

ADVERTORIAL

More services and more products – there can only be one choice The events industry is constantly evolving to encompass new ideas, new technologies and new trends. Creating great events means creating great experiences and with a more upbeat attitude towards the recent global economic issues clients want to emphasise the quality of their events like never before.

The recent influx in premium event furniture to the conference, exhibition and events market has been a breath of fresh air and stands testament to this this emphasis on quality. More and more people are looking for new ways to make their event “different” and why should the focus lay with venues, lighting and audio visual? We all know that these are the first areas on any event organisers to-do list, but more often than not it’s the same setups for the same crowds.What’s exciting about that?! Isn’t all about the audience experience?

Where event furniture used to be the ‘accessories’ of the industry there’s definitely a shift in its perception in recent years.

Accentuating an events space with specialist, designer furniture from the world’s leading product designers has given event organisers a new path to explore.

Classic design pieces from soft seating to poseur tables or even illuminated furniture to bean bags are now part of the fabric of contemporary events and with Scotland being ‘ground zero’ for major events in 2014 the time is now.

There used to be strong distinction between domestic and event furniture, but that gap has narrowed and the event industry is benefitting from the style and fashion more commonly associated with interior design agencies.

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brand addition HP

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Put sustainability at the heart of your next meeting Look no further than QMU’s award winning meeting and conference facilities where sustainability is at the core of everything we do.

We employ a number of leading environmental technologies at QMU including biomass heating, thin-client computer technology and a sustainable urban drainage system. In all our meeting and conference room facilities we have lighting controls and building energy management systems (BEMS) to control the temperature.

Our other sustainable features include:

Overall, the campus building project is regarded as one of Scotland’s most sustainable within the UK university sector.

So when sustainability matters to you, chose QMU for your next meeting or conference.

We can offer a comfortable, attractive space with a package to suit your needs including: n a lecture theatre which accommodates up to 250 people plus smaller meeting & event spaces;

n Energy efficiency n Biodiversity n Sustainable urban drainage system (SUDS) n Water consumption n Indoor air quality and ventilation Our Green Travel Policy encourages delegates to use public transport where possible and we have excellent transport links into Edinburgh city centre with Waverley train station being just 1 stop (6 minutes) from QMU.

Set in 35 acres of beautiful grounds, QMU not only has an extensive variety of spaces available for hire it also has onsite accommodation and a newly refurbished Sports Centre.

To discuss your conference or event requirements in more detail or to arrange a site visit, call Liz Suttie on T: 0131 474 0000 (say ‘EVENTS’) or E: lsuttie@qmu.ac.uk www.qmu.ac.uk

n high-tech facilities – AV, plasmas screens, interactive smartboards, electronic voting system; n in-house technical support; n bespoke catering packages for up to 300 clients; n an alternative wedding/celebratory venue at competitive rates and n grounds, buildings and specialist clinical and research spaces for film shoots.

Edinburgh Chamber Members Offer: 20% discount on room hire. Please quote code: QMUecc

Melville Castle Meetings, Conferences, Team Building, Training Days, Incentives

Melville Castle is situated just 20 minutes from Edinburgh Airport and 6 miles from the city centre. The castle has a long standing history, and was designed by the renowned Scottish architect William Playfair in 1791. In recent years Melville Castle has been carefully restored and brought back to life by the Hay family.

Melville Castle provides luxurious accommodation within the elegance of an 18th century castle. With thirty two stylish en-suite bedrooms, accommodation ranges from classic double rooms, grand four posters to intriguing gallery rooms. The classically furnished bedrooms are complete with crisp linen sheets, fluffy white towels and enchanting views of the surrounding woodland. The next morning, a wholesome Scottish or Continental breakfast is served to fuel your day.

At The Brasserie at Melville Castle you will find seasonal Scottish cuisine with a contemporary twist. Nestled within 50 acres of sprawling woodland only 6 miles from the city centre of Edinburgh you can feel a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Open every day, morning until night for breakfast, mid-morning refreshments, lunch, afternoon tea or À la carte dining. The Brasserie serves seasonal, modern Scottish Cuisine with a strong focus on locally sourced ingredients of the highest quality, which is combined with a carefully thought out wine and local beers list.

Whatever the occasion Melville Castle will leave a lasting impression.

Tel: 0131 654 0088

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Email: events@melvillecastle.com

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www.melvillecastle.com

Melville Castle, Gilmerton Road, Edinburgh, EH18 1AP www.melvillecastle.com

Private Dining at the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh Fellows Library, Playfair Main Hall

Powerful thinking for your business An exclusive venue with award-winning caterers Heritage Portfolio

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My name is Rebecca Welch and I am and a Director, Executive Coachof a building filled with history. Ask Mr Barbour, a surgeon from the Take your guests somewhere different experience the atmosphere 1800s to come along and regale your guests with stories of his colleagues at the College and how surgery was performed in his day.

2 will never forget! fun and and seasoned Change professional.Great I know that:very entertaining – an event your 2guests Please quote Business Comment when calling.

1. It is tough to carve time out of the working day to think, though we need to 2. Key business challenges need our full attention, yet we live amidst distraction Powerful thinking for your business Powerful your 3. As leaders we growthinking and learn all the time,for often working solo business My name is Rebecca Welch and I am a Director, Executive Coach My is Rebecca and I am a Director, andname seasoned ChangeWelch professional.

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1. It isneed tough time out ofleaders, the working day to I work one on one with business creating a think, spacethough to apply we toto carve to challenges need our full attention, yet we live amidst 2. we Keyneed business 2. Key business challenges needcreativity our full attention, yet to weyour live amidst distraction some perspective, courage, grit, and vigour distraction 3. As leaders we grow and learn all the time, often working solo 3. As leaders we grow and learn all the time, often working solo challenges.

I work one on one with business leaders, creating a space to apply Isome one on one with acan space to fantastic apply Awork singleperspective, programme of 6business to 9grit, x 90leaders, minutecreating sessions courage, creativity and vigour toyield your some perspective, courage, grit, creativity and vigour to your challenges. challenges.

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Call Rebecca on 07940 574 064 to continue the conversation or Call on 07940 574 064 to continue the conversation or EmailRebecca rebecca.welch@no41consulting.com Email rebecca.welch@no41consulting.com

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Membersnews New air route to USA A brand new direct link between Edinburgh and one of America’s most historic cities has been launched – strengthening the connection between the two countries and further opening Scotland up to the world.

US Airways now fly a daily direct service to Philadelphia.This is the first time this route has been served from Edinburgh and offers Scottish passengers the chance to visit the city and take full advantage of the amazing connectivity to over 1000 destinations across America.

The new daily service offers excellent flight times with the outward journey departing from Edinburgh at 10:40am and arriving into Philadelphia at 12:50pm (local time). Flights from Philadelphia will depart at 20:50 and arrive into Edinburgh at 08:40 (local time).

Sir John Elvidge, Chairman Edinburgh Airport, said: “We’re delighted to welcome US Airways into the Edinburgh Airport family and congratulate them on their inaugural flight to Philadelphia.This new daily service, the first of its kind from Edinburgh, marks the start of a new partnership with US Airways and one we’re confident will be hugely popular with passengers on both sides of the Atlantic.

“A direct route to Philadelphia will not only give Scots the opportunity to visit one of America’s most historic cities, but fantastic options for onward travel, with hundreds of destinations available on both east and west coasts or in Mexico, Canada and the Caribbean.This summer will also be a hugely exciting time to visit Scotland, with the Ryder Cup and Homecoming likely to draw huge numbers of American visitors.”

Transport Minister Keith Brown said: “Scotland has an enduring bond with the United States and the launch of this new direct service between Edinburgh and Philadelphia will only serve to strengthen that relationship.

“This new service will help build stronger business and tourism links between the two countries by reducing the need for travellers to take extra connecting flights via London or the continent, making Scotland an even more attractive destination..”

Member Offer as Edinburgh Address celebrates birthday The Edinburgh Address celebrates its 6th birthday this year - and to celebrate is making an offer to Edinburgh Chamber members.

The company’s property portfolio keeps growing, and they have begun their 7th year by welcoming the Panoramic Penthouse @ The Quartermile into the Edinburgh Address fold - a truly stunning interior with luxury and comfort to be found in every room, an absolutely prime location in Edinburgh’s exclusive Quartermile, and breath-taking 360 views of the city.

Add to this a range of extra services and your stay in the Panoramic Penthouse could really be unforgettable. The company’s services are all offered with a high-end lifestyle in mind.

Personal meet & greets, beauty treatments, private chef services and walking tours are all intended to provide luxury living, comfort and ease in your home away from home.

Managing director, Anna Morris, explains “We aspire to create a memorable experience for our guests based on our company values of dedication, friendliness, care, and a passion for Edinburgh”. From the integrated sound system to the hot tub and the bar, Panoramic Penthouse really is in the premier league of Edinburgh luxury living and we are proud to offer yet another fabulous apartment in the city we love best.

Chamber members are being offered 5% off a stay at the new penthouse. For further information the contact details are as follows: 16 Rutland Square, Edinburgh EH1 2BB T +44 (0)131 629 8347 F +44 (0)7092 072879 www.theedinburghaddress.com

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training There are many benefits to membership of Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce – from potential financial savings on business costs right through to social events and advocacy – but for an increasing number of members training and development is high on the agenda.

involved with the promotion of the Scottish Government programme, “Growing Talent”, placing graduates in permanent roles within local SME businesses. During this scheme we placed 40 graduates (200% of target) and provided these businesses with up to £1500 of grant funding for these new roles.

During the past year, Edinburgh Chamber has provided expert training to over 500 delegates that have attended more than 100 of our different training courses.

Over the coming months we have a packed calendar of open training courses, free courses and we also offer specialist bespoke in-house training at very competitive rates. There is something for everyone. All our courses are fully accredited for ILA Scotland Funding and for Skills Development Scotland Flexible Training Opportunities, making all our training affordable to the most challenging of budgets. Preferential rates for training are also offered to all our members. For further information on all our training courses, full calendar of courses, fees and funding options available please check our training website: www.chamberbusinesssolutions.co.uk or call the training team on 0131 221 2999 (option 3).

In addition, our new Transformational Business Leadership Programme – which sees two courses run each year – has been highly lauded by those who have taken part and there is increased demand for places.

Jimmy O’Connell, Head of Training and Development, said “We have seen significant growth of more than 30% in our training programmes, this has been driven by the high demand for our unique variety of courses and significant repeat business from members.”

“We are a well regarded and respected training provider in terms of quality, and we are now expanding the kinds of training programmes we offer as well.”

“Our most popular courses include our social media series, finance for non-financial managers, time management, project management, writing for the web and process mapping.”

New developments in training for 2014/15 include increasing our number of specialist training associates to cope with this growth in demand ensuring consistent high quality delivery, and a new range of courses in a variety of topics from E commerce to Operational Excellence.

In addition, the Chamber has seen a successful year in terms of its business mentoring programme, with 146 businesses matched with mentors – up from 128 the previous year. Jimmy said “This is the 13th Year of delivery of the programme; it is still hugely popular with our members whilst also providing much valued support to high growth businesses signposted through Business Gateway and Scottish Enterprise.”

“This year we are already making excellent progress towards our mentoring targets.

Edinburgh Chamber along with Aberdeen Chamber has the largest target match numbers in Scotland to achieve.”

The Training & Development department up until May 2014 had also been actively

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Upcoming Training Highlights: • Monday 16th June – Tendering for Success • Monday 23rd June – Plan to Succeed: Learn how to Improve your Website • Wednesday 25th June – Digital Marketing • Wednesday 2nd July - Leadership: How to Lead, Manage and Coach Your People to Success • Tuesday 8th July – Google AdWords • Wednesday 16th July - Finance for Non-Finance Managers: How to Understand and Speak with Confidence About Financial Issues in Your Business • Thursday 17th July - Introduction to Project Management: How to Plan, Manage and Close Successful Projects • Tuesday 12th August - Keep Your Customers: How to Understand and Improve your Customers Experience • Wednesday 13th August - Operational Excellence: How to Design and Implement a Continuous Improvement Culture for your Business And much more…………

GetwithIT

By Bill Magee Scottish Business Technology Writer of the Year

As we display an all-consuming appetite for everything digital it’s estimated that by 2020 there will be an estimated 50 billion handheld and wearable connected devices in the world.

Under the tag “The Internet of Everything” (IoE), otherwise known as the “Internet of Things” we’re all set to gain from an unprecedented technological value to organisations, individuals, communities and entire countries. Phil Smith, Cisco’s Scottish chief executive UK and ireland, told me he views IoE as a “real game-changer” especially seeing its impact in retail, transport, energy and healthcare.

In the beginning the internet could be seen as a powerful new way of communicating and no one really predicted where it would take us.

Today it is the catalyst that has changed business models. Empowered individuals, transformed societies and revolutionised nations. The internet is now at the heart of society and Phil maintains it has become a basic human right changing the way we work, live, play and learn. Everything really.

Now we are starting to live in a hyperconnected world with personal and ever-changing mobile and wearable tech.

But it’s all some way off. Despite all these connections it is estimated that more than 99 per cent of all physical objects that may one day join the online network are currently still unconnected.

We’ve only just started to connect the unconnected - what will it be like when 10 per cent get connected, then 100 per cent?

The success of the internet of everything will be measured by the extent to which we’re all able to harness it to benefit business and commerce, and ultimately humanity. * Catch Bill’s Daily TechPost (most days!) and on Twitter #billamagee

Inthespotlight Company name: Littles Who? Heather Matthews, Managing Director of Little’s Website: http://littles.co.uk What were you doing between 10 and 12 this morning?

I have been discussing the delivery of four new Jaguar XF cars with Operations and have held an internal meeting about the Scottish Business Awards (for which we are sponsoring a category) and providing chauffeur driven cars.

What do you see as your job’s biggest challenge?

I think my biggest challenge as Managing Director for a family run company, is to be continually innovative whilst ensuring tradition and service are maintained to the same high standard.

What do you consider your biggest business triumph?

Our international growth, whilst I’ve been Managing Director, has been considerable. This year we have entered new markets including Japan, South Korea, Malaysia and the Philippines. On top of that we’ve increased our presence in China, USA and Europe. In event terms, and personally, managing 140 chauffeurs driven cars for Chanel in Edinburgh at the end of 2012 was a recent triumph.

Do you have any money-saving business tips?

I believe in using trusted, recommended suppliers – if they waste your time, it’s your money too and if you have to spend more on rectifying an issue, that’s an even higher cost to your business.

What qualities do you need to see in your employees?

All my employees have to be able to offer the highest level of service to our clients which involves being professional, dedicated and ready to ‘go the extra mile’. Loyalty is important to me as well, I believe in treating my staff well and reward them with long service related bonuses to try and ensure continuity for our clients.

In business, is it more important to be liked or successful?

I don’t think it is an ‘either or’ but I do believe integrity is key. I will always try and do the right thing for my business and my staff while maintaining my reputation. I believe in doing things the correct way and always taking a long term view.

What is the one piece of advice you would give to others trying to reach the top?

To reach the top you have to really know your business and the market it operates in. Little’s started in 1966 and we have evolved with the changing needs of our clients. However it’s our high level of service, that our market expects, that keeps us at the top.

Who is your hero?

What do you believe are the 3 key stages on your career ladder?

Monty Don for his philosophical attitude to life and gardening.

Initially, I spent five years in Reservations learning the business from the most basic point of view in terms of customer service & allocation of cars and chauffeurs. In 1997 I became a Partner and then, following a long succession planning period, I became M.D. in 2005 when my father retired. Each stage taught me valuable lessons and I draw on my experience of all of them every single day.

Any business (or other) projects you would like to plug?

Where do you stand on work/life balance?

I was a founding board member of the Scottish Family Business Association and feel the work they do is very important for advising businesses like ours across the country.

Other than your current position, what would be your dream job?

I think it’s important to balance family life with work especially considering ours is a family business. I think holidays are vital for quality time away from the office but if I’m needed I answer the phone and respond to email. I make sure I leave the office earlier during quiet periods to make up for the long hours I work when we are very busy. I am taking a very early summer holiday this year in preparation for the onslaught of the Commonwealth Games and Ryder Cup when time off will be impossible. Planning is key.

I would love to be a garden designer.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

Outside of business, what is the most important thing in your life?

I enjoy spending time with my son and husband. I run, I garden, I see friends, I cook and bake.

Who (living or dead) would you invite to a fantasy dinner party?

For comedy value, Graham Norton or Eddie Izzard; for industry knowledge, Terez Perez, a Brazilian travel agent we work with and who I had dinner with last year; Monty Don, Maxi Jazz, and finally Kenneth Good, my Operations Director, always a top dinner party guest. And he would cook too.

My family and, in particular, my four year old son Rory.

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Barnardo’s Works has now been running for over four years! During this time we have successfully placed over 125 young people aged 16 – 24 into employment and we have hosted two graduation events to celebrate the success of those completing our employability programme. We have worked with employers and young people in East Lothian, West Lothian, and the City of Edinburgh. Employers have found it a refreshing and rewarding experience employing our young people and the lives of our participants have been turned around by finding and sustaining employment.

We are now looking to work with more employers (small, medium or large) who have placement and employment opportunities for young people.

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60seconds Name: Denise Strohsahl Company Name: sandstonecastles marketing consultancy Website: www.sandstonecastles.co.uk Q In five words or less, what do you do?

A Help businesses with their marketing.

Q How long have you been a Chamber member?

A Since November 2012

Q Why did you join?

A I wanted to benefit from the Chamber’s numerous networking events to meet potential clients and other businesses that offer complementary services.

Q What services do you use?

A I’ve been to a lot of networking events and I’ve been part of their Women In Business programme.

Q What’s the best business/benefit you have won through the Chamber?

A The Chamber helped me raise my profile among Edinburgh-based business owners from all industries.

Q Where do you read your copy of Business Comment?

A At my desk while having a cup of tea and some cake.

Q Are there any additional services or information you’d be particularly interested in?

A I’d like to be part of the mentoring programme the Chamber is running.

Q If you were telling another business person about the Chamber, what’s the first thing you would say?

A Great events & networking.

The challenges of keeping it in the family Much of the UK economy is based on the strength of family businesses, companies bonded by their leaders‘ powerful shared histories and a strong sense of loyalty.

Some of the UK’s oldest family businesses have used that combination to survive for almost 500 years and, according to the Institute for Family Business, there are three million family firms operating in the UK. The best ones combine the strength of family loyalty with an open approach that brings in professional support from those outside the family, exposing the company to new ideas and fresh thinking on business practice.

They are also the companies that plan ahead, devising strategies to make the most of the unique advantages enjoyed by family companies, including ways to allow the next generation to take the reigns as older generations retire.

The best family companies are the ones that respect their past but also recognise the need

for change as younger generations come through.

That was highlighted in a recently-published report by PwC which showed that getting succession right is crucial to continued success and which discovered a strong sense of confidence among those due to take over family companies.

According to the research, 80% of the next generation of family business leaders have big ideas for change and growth but 88% said they have to work harder than others to ‘prove themselves’.

The research by PwC, based on interviews with more than 200 family members likely to take over family businesses in 21 countries, suggests that succession is crucial as the ‘baby boomers’ hand over to the ‘millennials’.

Henrik Steinbrecher, PwC global middle market leader, said: “The world has changed out of all recognition since the current generation took over and the pace of

change can only accelerate in response to global megatrends like demographic shifts, urbanisation, climate change and new technology.

“Firms that manage succession well are those that plan many years ahead - ideally, five to seven years in advance - accompanied by ‘sensible conversations’ that address roles, responsibilities, and timings.”

According to the survey, promotion to CEO is no longer automatic for the next generation, with a growing number of family businesses being prepared to make tough succession decisions, including going outside the family for their leadership.

However, the survey revealed a strong desire to run the family firm among the majority of those questioned; 73% said they were looking forward to running the business one day although only 35% thought that was definite and 29% thought it at best only fairly likely.

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Want practical advice for your business?

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Business Gateway services are delivered by Local Authorities, Scottish Enterprise and Scottish Government with the support of associated partner organisations. Maximum call charge from BT landline is 3p a minute.

Are you considering Selling your Company?

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As proud members of the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce we have a proven track record of successfully selling businesses across all major sectors throughout Scotland.

If you are a business owner looking to sell a company and would like a confidential discussion about your objectives and requirements, call 0844 38 77 454 Or visit www.kbscorporate.com

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Design • Branding • Marketing • Web Unit 6b, Floor B, Milburn House, Dean Street, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 1LE Tel: Nick on 0845 8842337 or Iain on 0845 8842334

Gettingstarted Name: Lee Fitzpatrick Business name: Market Prepare Start up date: 1/5/2011 Website: www.market-prepare.co.uk Q1: Tell us a bit about your business?

Market Prepare are a forward thinking and driven all-trade project and facility Management Company that through the development of unique tendering infrastructure/ software are going to revolutionise the way in which commercial organisations can outsource property services across the UK.

Q2: What gives your business ‘the x-factor’?

Our ability to deliver highly skilled, pre vetted tradesmen promptly to our clients. Also our ability to ensure that planned projects are completed on time and to satisfaction, no matter the job instruction we are undertaking.

Q3: What motivated you to set up in business for yourself?

I wanted to create opportunities for myself but more importantly for others, the ability to give our hard working team members a chance to make a difference is a huge motivator for me

New members BM Temperature Control Brian Connell Consulting Ltd British Council Scotland Clear Brew Ltd Edinburgh TUI NA Therapy LJM Consultancy Macdonald & Rees Ltd MC Squared Omega Consulting Solutions Osprey Design Studios Stephanie Roxburgh Tandem Digital Tartan Silk Public Relations Teviot Creative Ltd The National Trust for Scotland UK Green Investment Bank

Q4: What do you like most about working for yourself?

My capacity isn’t capped and I can make the decision to push myself as far as I want and achieve the things that I really want to achieve.

Q5: What has been your greatest business success to date?

Successfully recruiting and training a team of 6 in just 7 months has allowed us to increase our capacity and position us to increasing our market share in Edinburgh and move us closer to expanding across the UK

Q6: What has been your lowest moment?

We have been limited by poor cash flow and have experienced some big growing pains which has put us under pressure in the past 6 months

Q7: In terms of business achievements, where do you want to be within the next 5 years?

We have clear ambitions to be trading across the UK in the next 24 months and for our software to be accessible internationally within 36 months.

Q8: What would be your top tip to someone thinking of starting up their own business?

Don’t be scared to do things differently. If you are confident that your idea has substance and you have done your market research then don’t stop until you have proven everyone wrong.

Edinburgh Zoo Nights return The award-winning Edinburgh Zoo Nights have returned.

This after-hours event allows you to see the Zoo at night whilst enjoying a drink in a fun festival atmosphere. With no kids allowed, the night is yours – whether you want to dance the night away in the silent disco, enjoy the live music and entertainment on offer around the Park, or just see what the animals get up to on a Friday night.

There will be a range of food and drink stalls – from Champagne and Scottish salmon to gourmet sausages and ale. The Zoo has also teamed up with Summerhall to provide a programme of entertainment,

including live acoustic music, acrobatics and fire performances. There will also be comedy, animal talks and a chance to get up close to the Zoo’s residents with animal encounters.

The event is a perfect work night out or something a little different to take clients along to. Food and drink vouchers can also be purchased in advance. Group booking rates are available. Edinburgh Zoo Nights are taking place on Friday, 20th June and 27th June.

To find out more, visit www.edinburghzoo.org.uk/zoonights or contact jpaulson@rzss.org.uk

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Inspiringconnections Whisky Tasting at B&B Edinburgh

Whisky Tasting at B&B Edinburgh

Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce members relaxing over a dram…

Whisky tasting and speed networking ...

There is no substitute for getting out and about, meeting people, and making connections – and at Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce your events team has been busy inspiring people to do just that!

It seems like no time since we were at the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce Business Awards back in February. Moving into March we returned to the West End’s best Nepalese restaurant- a finalist in the Scottish Curry Awards 2014, The Khukuri for another fantastic night of networking and curry.

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We are delighted to see continuous growth in numbers with each event we do, which is a testament to our members and the passion for business. In March we also launched our newest series “Rising Stars”, aimed at Chamber members, 35 years of age and below who are looking to network and build their own profile. Rebecca Mackenzie Smith, from HeeHaw Digital, winner of our Young Businessperson of the Year Award, was our guest speaker at Le Monde.

Our most recent events have seen John Donnelly, CEO of Marketing Edinburgh discuss the “This is Edinburgh” campaign with Leith Chamber of Commerce members, delegates dine at the wonderful STEAK restaurant and also, we hosted a fabulous whisky tasting evening at B&B Edinburgh which saw some of Edinburgh’s biggest companies attend.

Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce members getting prepared for their speed networking event

Looking forward to summer months we have a packed calendar including 60 Really Useful Minutes with HeeHaw Digital and Weber Shandwick on Video and Social Media, a gin tasting at Le Monde and continuing on with our networking lunch series we are headed to the newly refurbished Revolution on Chamber Street.

We are also very excited to host our first ever Pub Quiz on June 19th at Teviot Row House and our Annual Summer Party in association with Utility Wise takes place at the Royal College of Surgeons this year in their Courtyard area on August 14th. Both events provide excellent networking opportunities to bring your staff together and mix with other Chamber members.

We are delighted to announce that, following on from hosting Nicola Sturgeon at our Referendum Consultation Series, Fergus

Forthcoming events June 19th The First ever Chamber Pub Quiz at Teviot Row House 25th Referendum Consultation Series Lunch 26th Cocktail Making at the Voodoo Rooms July 2nd 60 Really Useful Minutes: International Trade with Nairns Oatcakes

Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce networking lunch at STEAK

3rd Referendum Consultations Series Dinner with The Rt Hon Alistair Carmichael MP Secretary of State for Scotland – The Sheraton Grand Hotel and Spa 10th Inspiring Women in Business lunch with Ali Gayward, EasyJet at the Waldorf Astoria 17th Chamber Catch Up- Chamber Office 17th Networking Dinner at the Voodoo Rooms 31st Cocktail Making at Le MondeRising Stars event 31st Chamber Catch Up- Chamber Office August 6th 60 Really Useful Minutes: Sales Process & Negotiation with Brain Connell 7th

Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce networking lunch at STEAK

Ewing, Minister for Energy, Enterprise and Tourism will address members at the Balmoral on June 25th on the topic of ’ ‘What Tourism would look like in an Independent Scotland’.

A range of sponsorship opportunities are available for all events. For more information please contact Sian Downes, Events Manager sian.downes@edinburghchamber.co.uk

Also in this series, on July 3rd. The Rt Hon Alistair Carmichael MP Secretary of State for Scotland will address members on the topic of ‘Is Independence or Devolution best for your business?’.

Looking forward to seeing you in the coming months! Don’t forget about Chamber Catch Ups which take place in our office every second Thursday between 8am-9am.

Chamber Catch Up- Chamber Office

14th The Edinburgh Chamber Summer Party at Surgeons Hall 20th Networking Lunch at the Hilton Doubletree (formerly The Point) 21st Wine Tasting at G&V Edinburgh (previously Hotel Missoni) 27th Behind the scenes at Edinburgh Castle with The Soldier’s Charity 28th Chamber Catch Up - Chamber Office

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Moversandshakers

Nikki seeks to bring in new business Nikki McDougall, Sales Manager for DoubleTree

by Hilton Edinburgh City Centre, joined the team after the property underwent a £4.2 million refurbishment to transform it into a leading 4-star city centre hotel.

Her main role will be to proactively source new business for the hotel with a focus aimed at the Conference Centre which boasts a penthouse venue overlooking Edinburgh Castle.

Nikki has a wealth of industry knowledge, having previously held positions in revenue, sales and travel.

Law At Work strengthens services Cullen Property with new hires recruits property Employment law, HR and health and safety specialists, Law At Work, management have further strengthened their expert service with two new additions to their team; an employment law and HR training manager, as well as an HR project manager.

Former associate at MacRoberts LLP, Lorna Gemmell joins the consultancy’s head office in Glasgow, as the employment law and HR training manager, bringing with her over a decade of experience gained working across all areas of employment law.

Strengthening the organisation’s HR services further in LAW’s Edinburgh office, is the appointment of Stephanie Harper as HR project manager. With more than two decades of experience in people management and governance, Stephanie led the HR function of the Dunedin Canmore Group prior to joining LAW.

Business Comment is an Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce publication.

AL L ED I T O R I A L A N D G E NE R A L E NQ UI RI E S: Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce Tel: 0131 221 2999 email mayan.grace@edinburghchamber.co.uk Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce, Business Centre, 2nd Floor, 40 George Street, Edinburgh EH2 2LE www.edinburghchamber.co.uk President: Alex Mcleod Chief Executive: Dave Birrell E D I T O R David Forsyth, Tel: 07887 955778 Email: david@benchmarkpr.co.uk D I S C L A I M ER

Cullen Property has recruited a new Property and Projects Coordinator to help source quality Edinburgh properties for investors.

Charlotte Gray, from Edinburgh, is a former property manager and tenancy advisor who graduated from Edinburgh Napier University with a 2:1 in Business Management.

She has a keen interest in entrepreneurship, so much so that she chose to write her dissertation on the subject, and loves working in the city’s property sector.

Charlotte is working on various projects including student property renovations, acquisition viewings and HMO applications. She has also previously worked as a retail manager for Jo Malone.

PRODU CTION & DESIG N Distinctive Publishing, Unit 6b, Floor B, Milburn House, Dean Street, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE1 1LE Tel: 0845 884 2385 www.distinctivepublishing.co.uk A D VERTISIN G Distinctive Publishing, Unit 6b, Floor B, Milburn House, Dean Street, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE1 1LE Tel: 0845 884 2343 john.neilson@distinctivepublishing.co.uk F E ATU RE EDITORS John Dean & Francis Griss deangriss@btinternet.com F R ON T COVER IM AG E studio montage

Distinctive Publishing or Business Comment cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies that may occur, individual products or services advertised or late entries. No part of this publication may be reproduced or scanned without prior written permission of the publishers and Business Comment.

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Fiona takes up new challenge Qatar Airways, which is due to commence a five weekly direct service from Edinburgh to Doha on the 28th May, has appointed Fiona Henderson as Corporate Account Manager for Scotland. Fiona will be working closely with Corporate and Travel Management Company (TMC) partners.

Fiona has worked in both the TMC and airline industries. She worked in a number of operational management roles for American Express Business Travel before moving to British Midland International (bmi) as Regional Sales Manager for Scotland, North England and Northern Ireland.

Latterly she held the role of Business Sales Manager, responsible for a customer base throughout the UK. Fiona’s most recent role before moving to Qatar Airways was as Regional Sales Manager Scotland for Portman Travel.

Have you recently moved to a new role?

Has your company employed a new member of staff? Would you like to be included in the movers and shakers page of Business Comment? If so then send a couple of paragraphs of information and a jpeg image of the person (minimum 300 dpi) to membershipadmin@ edinburghchamber.co.uk

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www.charlesworth.com Charlesworth Press, Flanshaw Way, Flanshaw Lane, Wakefield WF2 9LP

Plug in to develop your business

Vocational Qualifications are designed by SQA and industry experts to develop more motivated and more productive staff, whether they are new-starts or experienced professionals. Our qualification range covers practically every business or industry sector — making them good for your people, and good for your business.

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