Business Connect 5

connect business

MID, EAST AND WEST LOTHIAN CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Innovative students contribute to climate change targets chamber news

features

business news

views

interviews

AUTUMN2014 ISSUE 5

Celebrating

41 years

YOUR LOCAL WINTER SOLUTION

It is our business to ensure your premises remains safe and open for trade during the winter period. It is our sole priority to assist you in fulfilling your obligation to provide a safe site for your staff and visitors.

It’s what we do!

Cappers Winter Maintenance is 100% self-sufficient.

We operate our own fleet of snow clearing and gritting equipment. Supplying complete peace of mind.

in business 1973 - 2014

d Preventative Gritting Contracts Specialists d Complete Snow Clearing services. Reactive or Cappers Monitored d Manual gritting and snow clearing operatives d Winter events emergency cover d Weather Forecasting d Complete Winter Risk Management – Site surveys and risk assessment d Salt supplies

ARE YOU PREPARED? Call 01501 753999 or email enquiries@capperswinter.co.uk

www.capperswinter.co.uk Cappers Winter Maintenance. Sibbald Park, Blackridge, Bathgate, West Lothian EH48 3BN

01501 753999

contents

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HR service launched to support SME employers

Business Connect is a joint Midlothian, East Lothian and West Lothian Chambers of Commerce publication.

ALL EDITORIAL AND GENERAL ENQUIRIES: For Midlothian and East Lothian Chamber of Commerce Tel: 0131 603 5040 email: dita@thebusinesspartnership.org.uk Midlothian and East Lothian Chamber of Commerce Moulsdale House 24D Milton Road East Edinburgh EH15 2PP www.melcc.org.uk Chief Executive: George Archibald

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MELCC Business Awards 2014 – last call for nominations

For West Lothian Chamber of Commerce Tel: 01506 412909 email: brenda.cumming@wlchamber.com

Castle proving popular as a venue

West Lothian Chamber of Commerce Alba Centre, Alba Business Park Rosebank, Livingston EH54 7EG www.wlchamber.com

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Chief Executive: Linda Scott PRODUCTION & DESIGN Distinctive Publishing Unit 6b, Floor B, Milburn House Dean Street, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 1LE Tel: 0845 884 2384 www.distinctivepublishing.co.uk

Innovative students and graduates contribute to Scotland’s Climate Change targets

ADVERTISING Distinctive Publishing Unit 6b, Floor B, Milburn House Dean Street, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 1LE Tel: 0845 884 2343 email: john.neilson@distinctivegroup.co.uk

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FEATURE EDITORS John Dean & Francis Griss email: deangriss@btinternet.com DISCLAIMER Distinctive Publishing or Business Connect 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 Connect.

Contents

t c e n n co MID,

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£350,000 investment in Southdale Project

“Pump it Up” pioneering innovators from thin air

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Big Interview

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Business Improvement

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Chamber News

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Business News

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Business News

Business News

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Create a Perfect Event

30|31

Members News

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Members News

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Effective Marketing

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New Members

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ZINE

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Business News

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Chamber News

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Cover Feature

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Members Close Up

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Premier Partners

ents ive stud Innovat te to climate contributargets change chamber

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features

business

news

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MARKETING

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chambernews

n caption

MELCC Business Awards 2014 – last call for nominations We are calling all entrepreneurs and businesses in East & Midlothian to nominate themselves for the forthcoming MELCC Business Awards.

The closing date for nominations under any of the 8 award categories is 4pm on Friday 3rd October.

Winning a business award can help your business gain media profile, prestige, attract new customers and can also boost the morale and motivation of your staff. The Business Awards recognise and celebrate companies with a real commitment to excellence so being named winner is a public recognition of your success.

We have had an exciting response from East and Midlothian businesses of all kinds and are keen to see even more. If companies or enterprising individuals have achieved something of which they’re proud, then we very much want to hear about it.

There will be 8 award categories to be presented including: n Business High Growth & Innovation

n Family Business n Youth Engagement Company n Social Enterprise of the year n Best Employer for Students and Graduate n Local Business Hero n Networker of the Year.

The winners of the MELCC Business Awards will be announced at an awards dinner, to be held on Wednesday 29th October 2014 at the Brunton, Musselburgh.

Candidates may nominate themselves or they may be nominated by others. For more info email Dita Macfarlane dita@ thebusinesspartnership.org.uk or contact Dita on 0131 603 5043.

n Green Business

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chambernews

What’s in it for you, if you refer a business to the Chamber?

Our Referrals Scheme allows members to nominate any of their contacts to become a member of Midlothian and East Lothian Chamber. If the nominated company becomes a member, we’ll reward you with a choice of free offers and discounts to help your business. Choose from: n 50% off your next annual membership fee n Free exhibition stand at our annual

Chamber Award and Exhibition which includes one free place at the event n Free half page editorial in ‘Business

Connect’

Terms & Conditions n Members must email details

of potential new member to dorothy@ thebusinesspartnership.org.uk n To claim 50% off the next subscription

the new member must be in same as or higher membership banding than the referrer. If not, the reward will be restricted to a maximum of £75.00 n Reward can only be claimed once referral

has joined and paid n Each of the reward can be claimed only

once per annum n Cannot be used in conjunction with any

other offer For more info – contact Dorothy Webster on 0131 603 5040 or email dorothy@thebusinesspartnership.org.uk

Dates for your diary – MELCC events 8 October 2014 (8am–10am)

29 October 2014 (5pm-9pm)

19 November (4pm – 6pm)

Chamber Business Club Growing your business through your people

Annual Business Exhibition and Awards Dinner

Meet your local Council – Midlothian

The Brunton Hall, Musselburgh

Rosslyn Chapel, Roslin

The Mercat Grill, Whitecraig, Musselburgh 13 November 2014 (4pm-6pm) 9 October 2014 (4pm–6pm)

Chamber Gathering – Meet your local suppliers

Members’ Visit to Torness Power Station Torness, Dunbar

Archerfield Walled Garden, Dirleton For more info and to book visit www.melcc.org.uk or email dita@thebusinesspartnership.org.uk

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businessnews

HR service launched to support SME employers Small and medium-sized businesses across East Lothian, Midlothian, Leith and Portobello can now have their own HR Dept.

Experienced Human Resources professional Ian Pilbeam has launched The HR Dept from his base in Dunbar, providing SMEs with the levels of advice and support that large companies enjoy from their in-house HR teams, through an outsourced, local and personal service they can access at a fraction of the cost of employing their own HR expert.

Ian, who brings 25 years’ HR experience to his new role, helps businesses prevent people problems with pragmatic and affordable advice and support, from managing the challenges of growth and sensitive employment issues to staying legal and up-to-date with changes in HR and employment law.

As part of The HR Dept network, which has another 56 offices across the UK, Ian also provides an advice line to help deal with questions as they arise backed by Employment Tribunal insurance, thus giving clients complete peace of mind. The HR Dept also offers a free review of contracts of

n Ian Pilbeam

employment and policy handbooks.

Together with a toolkit of useful products to help with all HR matters including pensions, auto-enrolment and a “self service” personnel software system, the new HR Dept office has all the ingredients to support SMEs to reach their goals and grow.

Ian said: “I am thrilled to use my knowledge and skills to benefit SMEs in the area where I work and live.

“My aim is to help local businesses prosper

through great people management practices that are proven to boost profits and at the same time help them cope with complex employment law and regulations by delivering all the HR expertise they need.”

The HR Dept Midlothian, East Lothian and Leith can be contacted on 0845 296 2731, Twitter @IanPIlbeamHR. For further information visit: www.hrdept.co.uk/offices/scotland/ midlothian-east-lothian-and-leith

ScotRail’s off peak ticket remain frozen As rail passenger numbers achieve record-breaking levels across Scotland, ScotRail is pleased to confirm that the cost of off-peak tickets will remain frozen at their 2013 level next year. With off-peak travel accounting for 40% of rail journeys in Scotland, this means that four in 10 journeys next year will be offered at 2013 prices.

ScotRail passengers undertaking journeys at peak time will also enjoy a 1% lower fares increase than those travelling with other train operators in the UK. Peak fares on ScotRail trains will rise by 2.5%, in line with the current inflation rate. By contrast, similar fares in England and Wales are set to rise by an average of 3.5%.

Overall, their fares will increase by an

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In England and Wales, where regulated train fares are set by the UK Government, fares on some routes could rise by 5.5%.

Under “flex” rules, which do not apply in Scotland, operators are permitted to raise some fares higher in England and Wales as long as they are balanced by reductions elsewhere.

average of 1.9%, which is significantly below inflation and will be one of the lowest rises among train operators in the UK. The fare changes, which commence in January 2015, follow publication of the July 2014 Retail Price Index (RPI), the inflation figure that determines the average change in regulated train fares which are set by the Scottish Government.

ScotRail’s commitment to freezing fares for four in 10 journeys and limiting others to a lower increase than those being implemented in England and Wales will help to provide better value for money for customers in Scotland at a time of unprecedented levels of rail travel. ScotRail carried a record-breaking 86 million passengers in the year to March 31, 2014.

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advertorial

Never A better time to visit London There has never been a better time to travel from Scotland to London with a record number of British Airways flights from Edinburgh and low all inclusive fares.

As well as a quick and easy commute into central London, travellers also have the choice of a more traditional journey down London’s famous river on a modern new Thames Clipper boat. These river buses drop off and pick up from several piers in East London and transport passengers down the Thames to some of the most popular tourist spots like London Bridge, the London Eye and Chelsea Harbour.

There will be a total of 27 return flights a day with British Airways between the two capital cities, with 11 of those flying direct to London City Airport, right in the heart of the Docklands and the closest airport to London city centre.

There is still plenty to see and do within the immediate Docklands area, with art galleries, museums, bars, restaurants, pop up bars and art exhibitions, as well as the Docklands Museum, with its reconstructed London streets of old and a slice of river history, and the world famous Brick Lane, housing some of the city’s quirkiest shops, bars and museums.

As well as excellent commercial and leisure facilities right on the doorstep, there is also a quick and easy transport infrastructure linking the airport with the city via Docklands Light Railway and London Underground.

The legacy of London 2012 remains with the magnificent stadium at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and Westfield, which is close by at Stratford City, and is one of Europe’s largest urban shopping centres.

With easy access to London’s financial centre Canary Wharf and its wealth of shops, restaurants and bars, plus the close proximity to Excel, London International Conference Centre and the world famous O2 Arena at Greenwich, both business and leisure passengers can appreciate the benefits of flying into City Airport.

However, for Scottish customers who are just passing through London and want to travel further afield, the well-timed Edinburgh flights also connect with British Airways’ extensive schedule of European and international destinations from London City.

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like Dusseldorf and Geneva, popular leisure destinations like Majorca, Faro and Malaga and cultural centres like Florence and Granada.

A full list of onward destinations is available at www.ba.com/londoncity Customers have a quick and easy journey through London City Airport – with hand baggage it takes just 15 minutes to get from kerbside to airside.

One way all inclusive hand baggage only fares to from Edinburgh to London City start from £39 and are available to book on www.ba.com/edinburgh British Airways Holidays also offer some great deals for people visiting London from Scotland. Two nights at the 4* Aloft, next to Excel, start from £200 per person, including bed and breakfast and return flights from Edinburgh to London City.

Two nights at the 4* Hilton Docklands are available from £205 per person, also including bed and breakfast and return flights from Edinburgh.

For reservations visit ba.com or call 0844 493 0758.

There are twice daily flights to New York as well as a host of business destinations

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businessnews

The revolutionary NISSAN e-NV200 Electric Van

n The revolutionary 100% electric Nissan e-NV200 van and LEAF car at the Alex F Noble and Son dealership at Straiton, Loanhead

The eagerly anticipated Nissan e-NV200 is the 100% electric van that will change the light commercial van market for ever and it’s available right now from your local Nissan dealership, Alex F Noble and Son at Straiton, Loanhead.

This revolutionary zero emission compact van guarantees significant savings in running costs while also helping the environment by bringing CO2 emissions down to zero at the point of use. Combining the exceptional all-round capability and versatility of the Nissan NV200, (voted International Van

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of the Year 2010), with a state-of-the-art all-electric power system that’s currently operating in over 100,000 electric Nissan LEAF cars worldwide, the e-NV200 delivers unprecedented running costs of just 2 pence per mile.

Available now in both panel van and fiveseat combi form and in two distinct trim levels, the groundbreaking newcomer offers exceptional running cost savings over a conventional diesel van, making it an unbeatable proposition for Midlothian businesses large and small. e-NV200 drivers can expect to benefit from up to £2,500* of fuel savings with the vehicle costing 2 pence per mile, while maintenance costs will be reduced by £575* based on servicing, parts and wear and tear.

In addition, those that opt for the all-electric e-NV200 will pay no road tax.

Additionally, the e-NV200 comes with a pricing structure that provides the ultimate in convenience and flexibility. Customers can

either choose to buy e-NV200 outright or opt for ‘Flex’ - an affordable battery leasing option that reduces the initial purchase price.

Whichever option they choose, 100% electric e-NV200 models qualify for a Government grant - up to £8,000 Plug In Van Grant (PiVG) for the panel van, and up to £5,000 Plug In Car Grant (PiCG) for the five-seater combi.

With the Government incentive, the e-NV200 van, in entry level ‘Acenta’ trim, can be purchased outright for just £16,562.20 while the similarly specced ‘combi’ is priced at £22,859. In addition, there are also a range of attractive contract hire options available.

To book your 24 hour test drive of the revolutionary Nissan e-NV200 van, please telephone Ian Wilson at Alex F Noble and Son on 0131 440 5353 or email ian.wilson@afnoble.co.uk (test drives are strictly by appointment only). Alternatively, please drop into the Alex F Noble and Son dealership at Swinton Place, Straiton, Loanhead and ask for Ian Wilson.

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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.

Debt Recovery Contract Law Advice Solicitor Advocate Specialist in Construction Law

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 long-term 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

The Manic Eye Getting Tired Yet?

Of looking like your competitors? Take a step back, and ask yourself: “What is it that makes my company unique”? Better still, let me find out for you! After all, sales, and especially repeat business, are built on the trust that comes from familiarity with your brand. People don’t buy from a company. They buy from other people.

What makes me unique is that I take a holistic view of your business. I find what is

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unique about you, what your core values are, and communicate that to your customers.

the horse! Because the idea has, and always should have, primacy.

How do I do this? By attention to detail. From billboard to vehicle wrap, from annual report to stationery, from leaflet to website, I provide advertising which looks good and stays on message.

If you’ve finally tired of “me too” advertising and want to stand out from the crowd, call me on 07906 275211 for a free initial consultation. Or email me at sales@maniceye.com.

Because I trained in Fine Art, I’m comfortable sketching ideas on a napkin. I work with a sketch first, because of its immediacy. Then I use the computers and other toys as production aids to help me realize my ideas. In other words, the cart doesn’t drive

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membersnews

Castle proving popular as a venue Scotland’s oldest inhabited castle, Dalhousie Castle, was purchased by entrepreneur Robert Parker two years ago. After significant investment, it is now being increasingly sought after as leading luxury conference and banqueting venue for businesses and individuals who want a tailored experience.

accommodating up to 120 delegates. The grounds are suitable for a range of outdoor pursuits with on-site activities including archery and falconry. All private parties and events, incentive and corporate programmes are tailored to individual needs working together with the chefs and the dedicated events planning team. Located only 8 miles drive from the centre of Edinburgh, Dalhousie can be hired on an exclusive or non-exclusive basis.

Dalhousie, is also a popular leisure venue with its 35 luxury guest bedrooms all individually furnished, the award-winning Two ‘AA Rosette’ fine-dining Dungeon Restaurant and luxury hydrotherapy spa.

to build on the success we have already achieved to drive business forward especially in the conferencing sector, and to continue to strive towards excellence in all areas.

“Our long-term aim is to achieve the coveted Four Red Stars from the AA. We have invested heavily both in the building and the staff, supporting where possible local suppliers and producers. We are now working very hard to achieve this status as we know that it really will set us aside from other hotels in the area.”

For more information contact Dalhousie Castle on 01875 820 153 or visit www.dalhousiecastle.co.uk.

John Badley, General Manager of Dalhousie Castle, said: “In the short term our aim is

Its reputation is attracting business from across the globe, locally from Edinburgh and the surrounding area and internationally from Europe and the US. Built in the 13th Century, Dalhousie has played witness to its fair share of history.

Charming and stylish it now offers all the luxuries of the 21st century and a truly elegant hotel experience combined with original character.

For companies the facilities are extensive and include a total of five conference rooms

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Need a reliable gas supplier in Edinburgh & Mid Lothian?

Then look no further than Ritchie’s Gas n Catering Size BBQ’s for Hire n Bottled Gas for Domestic, Commercial & Industrial n Patio & BBQ Gases n Full range of Calor Gas in stock n Air products Dealers for Drinks Dispense Gas n Welding & Industrial Gases n Balloon Gas – Helium n Autogas available on site n Delivery through Edinburgh, East & Midlothian

E T A R O P COR G? N I D N A R B

L o g o s ? e n i z Maga design? LEAFLETS

? s e t i s web

Gas Delivered to your Door

01875 815044

Seton Gardens, Longniddry, East Lothian, EH32 0PG

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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

It’s not Rocket science A healthy workforce is the foundation for good business! SkyRocket Wellness takes a flexible and personal approach in partnering with your business to raise the energy and wellbeing of business professionals, in order to increase their happiness, performance and productivity - with a view to improving that business’s bottom line.

SkyRocket Wellness provides the following services: • Executive Wellness Coaching • Wellness Workshops and Consulting • Health and Fitness services For further details contact us to find out more about how we can help your company’s wellbeing take off.

Louise Ramsay m: 07887 612912 e: louise@skyrocketwellness.com www.skyrocketwellness.com

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midlothiancouncil

Local Midlothian business makes international mark with help of Business Gateway A local family business is going from strength to strength and marking Midlothian firmly on the international map.

Oscha Slings based in Bilston is the brain child of local entrepreneur Zoe Emma Masters, and the company makes designed slings and wraps in a variety of high quality fabrics for parents to carry babies.

Zoe said: “Dad and I set up the business after I had kids and had used these types of slings all the time. We wanted to bring sometime unique and new to the market.

It’s very much a family affair. My dad’s a director, my mother is involved and my brother runs our website.”

“Social media has played a big part in getting the word out about our business, it’s been a lot of hard work and it’s great to see the business growing.”

The company has been building up business and now employs eight staff with a turnover of around £1.5m. The unique slings are sold in Russia, US and Australia with more orders filling up the books.

We know the business is looking to expand further and our Business Gateway advisors are on hand to help take the business forward and obtain worldwide success.”

In a recent performance report the majority of Midlothian Business Gateway clients (89%) found that they has benefitted above the national average of 83%.

Over the last two years, the sales have rocketed by 70% internationally.

We’re bringing our advisors to you to make it easier for you to access high quality support.

The young company has received help from the Council run Business Gateway.

Find Business Gateway at the following locations throughout Midlothian.

The Business Gateway is a great service which offers a one-stop shop for budding entrepreneurs.

Oscha Slings received help enrolling on courses as well as advice on opening up information about funding so the company could buy a new sewing machine.

Councillor Jim Bryant, cabinet member for economic development, said: “This is a wonderful example of a small business growing stronger, here in Midlothian.”

“The company has gone from strength to strength on their own merit and they are a credit to our small business community.

Start Up Advice sessions: Please call 0131 271 3377 to book an appointment, or contact us via email bg@midlothian.gov.uk

High Growth and New Enterprise Allowance advisors are based at: Fairfield House 8 Lothian Road, Dalkeith EH22 3ZN

Build your networks and get tips from fellow business owners.

High Growth advice is often delivered at the premises of our customers.

Start up Business coffee mornings will be held at 09:30 on 16/9 14/10 4/11 9/12 at Dalkeith Arts Centre. A crèche will be available. For more details please call Business Gateway Midlothian as above

It’s now even easier to get an appointment with our team. By making that appointment, you are taking the first step to securing a better future for your business.

0845 609 6611

www.facebook.com/BGMidlothian www.twitter.com/BGMidlothian For more information visit www.bgateway.com

0845 609 6611 www.bgateway.com 0845 609 6611

www.bgateway.com 0845 609 6611

www.bgateway.com

www.bgateway.com

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

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.

Maximum call charge from BT landline is 3p a minute.

0845 609 6611

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

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

Maximum call charge from BT landline is 3p a minute.

Maximum call charge from BT landline is 3p a minute.

www.bgateway.com

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autumn2014 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.

advertorial

Keeping on top of the message in a changing world Marketing and communication is changing and changing rapidly and the reason is social media.

The sector is no stranger to change. When it comes to distributing press releases, for instance, the traditional way for decades was by post until the advent of fax, which was itself soon supplanted by email. Suddenly, a press release can reach a myriad of media outlets in seconds.

But even that process, speedy and efficient as it is, has been overtaken by Social Media and the way it allows people to comment immediately on a company‘s pronouncement. Today, the industry is contending with changes wrought by the likes of Twitter, Facebook and their ilk, all of which are rewriting the rules like never before.

PR professionals, while concerned that it is more difficult to control the message on

Social Media, can nevertheless see great opportunities in the new ways of contacting customers directly.

For them, the main issue remains that Social Media allows a message to be questioned within seconds. Keeping track of comment has become a major part of the PR professional’s working day.

Some of the gloomier pundits have predicted that this is end of traditional PR because now that everyone can practice it, everyone can get a message out.

However, PR professionals will tell you that the web’s dramatic expansion does not mean that more traditional outlets are being ignored. Newspapers, radio and television remain important, it is just that for many PR specialists hits on the web is where their successes are increasingly being recorded.

Certainly being recorded first.

The cannier practitioners can see the advantages offered by the new platforms.

PR is not dying, it’s just evolving.

Marketing companies, too, are showing increasing levels of imagination as they respond to the new world. They are experimenting with the likes of podcasts, audio files, flash banner advertising and

video, which offers opportunities for companies commissioning corporate films and taking advantage of the links of youtube for viral marketing.

They can see that a short film showing someone enthusing about a product can be a very effective marketing tool.

Marketing companies are also taking advantage of the exciting revolution in handheld technology and the opportunities it offers for downloads. The Age of the App is upon us, too.

However, another media which is still popular is the most traditional one of all. For many companies, producing their own print publications remains the key to success and those who succeed are the ones who value creativity above everything else, who dedicate time and effort to getting the look and the text right so that they make for attractive and informative reads.

For all marketing experts, though, one thing has not changed. Success is about making the client stand out. Whether it be attractive adverts in magazines and newspapers or inventive use of downloads and websites, creativity holds the key to success. And that won’t change.

Most advertising shouts out a message in the hope that someone’s interested. Direct marketing, on the other hand, is all about having a conversation with your customer. It’s more personal. We target specific people with specific offers. We use great creative to break the ice. And we know what to say to get people to respond. Which is why it works. So the sooner you start talking to your customers, the sooner you can

stop shouting T H E L A S T WO R D I N D I R E C T M A R K E TING A N D R E S P O N S E A DV E RT I S I N G To find out more call Simon on 0131 563 7690 or visit redmcgregor.com

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businessnews

Supporting our Future Workforce Are you interested in being a mentor to a young person After a successful second year, Midlothian Council in conjunction with the Business Partnership will run the Pupil Mentoring Programme within the Midlothian Schools.

The aim is to build the young person’s confidence and support them to be ready to move into work or training on leaving school.

Organisers are now looking for local business men and women to engage with youngsters in the Midlothian Schools, in order to provide them with an understanding of the current employment market.

Each young person will be assigned a mentor and areas of discussion can be ‘advice and guidance on CV, interviews techniques etc. and discussing the pros and cons of a particular career path and easing the transition from school.

By providing one-to-one mentoring, this will enhance their employability skills and job prospects.

The mentor will be asked to commit at least one hour per month for one academic year (holiday times excluded) to motivate, encourage, support, advise, listen and share knowledge with their mentee.

If this is something that you or any of your employees could get involved in please get in touch or if you would like more information please contact Sandra as soon as possible, at the following email

address or just give her a call Email: Sandra@thebusinesspartnership.org.uk or tel: 0131 603 5040 The programme has been designed in collaboration with businesses and schools to ensure that it is beneficial for both. It will combine staff development with helping to support, encourage and equip young people with the skills to compete in the employment market.

A cost effective Environmental Management System Bright Green Business will support on implementation, inspection and maintenance requirements, and aim to establish your EMS in a friendly and highly practical manner.

Our United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) partners, Tarian, will carry out a full audit prior to final accreditation.

Green Ticks is an Environmental Management System (EMS) which has been designed to offer you a methodology to register your organisation in line with BS 8555:2003.

The Green Ticks scheme is unique to Scottish businesses and organisations and is recognised throughout the UK and Ireland by such companies as SEPA, DEFRA and Business Gateway.

How will it benefit your business? n Reduce your costs n Boost your competitiveness n Enhance customer perceptions n Meet supply chain obligations

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BS 8555 is a British Standard, designed as a method to enable businesses to manage their environmental impact in an affordable way. This standard is split into 6 Phases; each Phase has its own distinct achievement criteria underpinned by the EMS key principles. At Phase 5 companies exceed the expectations of ISO 14001. This system allows individual companies to obtain a level of standard suitable to them, and in a more cost effective and less time consuming manner than ISO 14001.

To find out more about Green Ticks visit www.greenticks.org.uk or contact Emma Roy on emmar@thebusinesspartnership. org.uk / 0131 603 5040.

Grant funding may be available to cover a proportion of the cost of this environmental accreditation for Midlothian businesses.

For more information, please contact Jane Crawford on 0131 2713427 / jane.crawford@midlothian.gov.uk

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businessnews

Gameover ZeuS / Cryptolocker Advisory

by SBRC (Scottish Business Resilience Centre)

As you may be aware from recent news reports, law enforcement agencies and computer security companies have recently taken action to disrupt two serious computer viruses.

These viruses, called “Gameover ZeuS” and “Cryptolocker”, are designed to steal money from online bank accounts or encrypt all of the files on a computer until a ransom is paid.

The action taken means that the viruses don’t work at the moment. However, the criminals who use them are expected to issue new versions soon, meaning there is a short window for internet users to take action now to protect their home computers.

How do the viruses work?

Both of these viruses are generally delivered by very convincing fake emails, either as an attachment disguised as a legitimate document or as a link in the email itself.

These contain code which scans the computer and attempts to infect it with one of these viruses. If the computer is not up to date with the latest security patches, it will be infected and the user will be unaware.

Gameover ZeuS allows criminals full access to an infected user’s computer. Keystrokes can be captured, including online banking log in credentials and passwords. The virus can also trick users into entering banking

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security codes from a card reader into their computer which are then transmitted to the criminals and used for fraud.

Cryptolocker encrypts (or “locks”) all of the files on a user’s computer making it unusable. It is important to note that this includes any files stored on removable or networked drives that are connected to the computer at the time of the malware infection. A message informs the user that their files are encrypted and that they have a short time in which to pay a sum of money to receive the password to unlock them.

So far, only the password is capable of unlocking files encrypted by this virus.

Both of these viruses can only affect computers running Microsoft operating systems*.

What can I do to protect myself?

There are several things you can do to protect your computer from infection by these viruses and to protect yourself if your computer is infected: n Don’t open any attachments from emails

you didn’t reasonably expect. Some of the fake emails recently appear to have come from banks, HMRC and delivery companies, so don’t click on a link or attachment unless you’re 100% sure it’s genuine. n Install anti-virus software and set it to

n Keep your computer itself up to date –

Microsoft offer automatic updates for their operating systems and software.

Update your other software programs as well. n Back up your files regularly, using a

drive you can manually remove easily, or software which password protects your backup drives. n Never store any passwords or sensitive

information, like banking details in unencrypted files, such as Word documents. n These types of computer frauds generally

start via phishing emails More advice, and free tools to help you detect and remove these viruses can be found at www.getsafeonline.org The following operating systems are susceptible to Gameover ZeuS: n Microsoft Windows: 95, 98, Me, 2000, XP,

Vista, 7, and 8 n Microsoft Server: 2003, Server 2008,

Server 2008 R2, and Server 2012 Other operating systems, such as Apple Mac OSX and iOS (used on Macs, iPads and iPhones), Linux and Android cannot be infected with these specific computer viruses. Users of these systems are also advised to keep their systems up to date and use anti-virus software.

update automatically. n If your bank offers security software,

consider installing it as it is designed to protect you from the latest viruses and fake websites which criminals can use to steal your money.

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advertorial

The big questions? Who are you going to turn to for help?

Who do you ask when you need answers to the big questions?

It may be that your organisation needs advice on shaping a campaign document to send to Ministers or rebut proposal with which you disagree.

The advice on policies that will guide your company’s next phase of development, how to have your voice heard on the political issues that concern your organisation or help with the legislative changes that are giving you sleepless nights?

Keith can help because he has ten years of experience of running public affairs campaigns, organising lobbies of the Scottish Parliament, giving evidence to parliamentary committees and developing professional relationships with politicians both in the Scottish Parliament and Westminster.

The answer is someone hugely experienced in public affairs and that means the Edinburgh-based Keith Robson Consultancy.

Having worked in the education, health and housing sectors in Scotland as well as serving on the former Scottish Higher Education Funding Council, Keith brings substantial experience to bear on his public affairs work for clients.

His speciality is using that experience to take challenges that seem daunting and help provide clients with a way forward.

Keith is also particularly skilled at helping organisations to work in partnership with others, involving them in the key decisions being taken that involve their organisation.

Whether you are a business, a charity or a not-for-profit body, Keith can help on a range of public affair services from everything from consultation responses, issue related campaigns and supporting the development of policy positions.

monitoring service which allows him to properly brief his clients.

You can contact Keith on 07809 740 470 and Keith@KeithRobsonConsultancy.co.uk or visit www.keithrobsonconsultancy.co.uk for further details

Keith, a member of the Chartered Institute of Public Relations and the Public Relations Consultants Association, also runs a media

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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

coverfeature

Innovative students and graduates contribute to Scotland’s Climate Change targets

“Scotland’s Sustainability is safe in your hands,” were the words of encouragement given to the six finalists at the Environmental Placement Programme National Final at the Edinburgh City Chambers on Monday 1st September.

opportunities for students and recent graduates by linking them with host companies across Scotland to undertake environmental projects to help participating companies realise cost savings associated with improved environmental management.

The finalists were: n Rosie Bisset – Emtelle UK n Chris Litwiniuk – University of Edinburgh n Innes Shirreff – Edinburgh College n Kirsty Cuthbertson – Resource Efficient

Scotland n Holly Best – EDP Renewables n Maria Vrabec – Hillcrest Housing

The Environmental Placement Programme, delivered by Bright Green Business, offers valuable and practical work experience

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Association

2020 Climate Group; Dr Steve Johnson – Environmental Advisor, University of Glasgow; and Calum Fisher – Cost Forecasting Accountant, EDP Renewables.

The Awards Ceremony was opened by an address from John Ireland, Deputy Director for Low Carbon Economy Division, Scottish Government, who commented that the students and graduates were able to show businesses how to ‘make money, save money and save the planet,’ and also presented the awards. The key note address was made by Dr Mike Groves from Codbod Technologies on “The Environment: An Opportunity”.

The Event was sponsored by the City of Edinburgh Council and the Scottish Government, Climate Change and Water Industry Division) is the main programme sponsor.

The six finalists presented to a panel of judges: Victoria Barby – Project Director,

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coverfeature This year’s winners were: Most Enterprising Green Student: Chris Litwiniuk – University of Edinburgh.

Chris carried out a waste project with the University of Edinburgh where he coordinated the introduction of a new waste management software, trained over 100 staff and assisted in the preparation of tenders and support on other duties within the department.

Runner Up: Rosie Bisset – Emtelle UK. Rosie’s project focused on completing a carbon footprint assessment on the organisation and creating a 10 year sustainability plan. In addition to successfully meeting these aims, Rosie also implemented

approximately £19,000 of cost savings in just 11 weeks.

Judges Commendation: Innes Shirreff – Edinburgh College. Innes Shirreff received the Judges Commendation for his project with Edinburgh College that focused on sustainability across the four college campus.

His project had particular emphasis on sustainable travel for both staff and students as well as waste and recycling initiatives.

For more information about the Environmental Placement Programme and other services offered by Bright Green Business, please e-mail rebecca@ thebusinesspartnership.org.uk

The students and graduates were able to show businesses how to ‘make money, save money and save the planet.’

Realising the potential of young people Times are difficult for young people and many 16-24 year olds find themselves as NEETs (Not in Education, Employment or Training). Many employers are also looking for people with experience. According to Labour Market Statistics there were 920,000 unemployed 16-24 year olds between September and November last year. So, what can we do to help young people, and equally how can they help you?

Investors in Young People (IIYP), is a framework endorsed and supported by the Scottish Government to assist employers to actively recruit develop and retain young people in their workforce. IIYP originated through a key recommendation from the Commission for Developing Scotland’s Young Workforce, led by Sir Ian Wood.

Currently, many organisations implement youth employment initiatives but unless they are focused on the outcomes they want to achieve, these can be stand-alone exercises that do not achieve significant change. IIYP begins by examining an organisations future business needs,

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n Provides a clear link between

organisational need and the recruitment and development of Young People n Offers guidance and encouragement

to organisations to access the range of support services available n Provides recognition to those

including skills, talent and expertise levels and the capacity to deliver on that need. IIYP also considers whether this need could be best served through the recruitment and retention of Young People, whilst recognising that there is a difference in recruiting Young People and recruiting more experienced staff. Advice and assessment against the framework is also offered.

Investors in Young People: n Challenges and encourages

organisations to consider the capabilities needed to achieve goals and objectives

demonstrating they are effective in their approach to recruiting, retaining and developing Young People IIYP have learned from the best that recruiting and developing Young People is a great way to build a dynamic and productive workforce. They also know that Young People are creative, ambitious and inventive. They motivate others and offer fresh perspectives to take your organisation to where it wants to be.

To find out more, call IIYP on 0131 625 0155, go to www.investorsinpeople. co.uk/investors-young-people or email iiyp@iipscotland.co.uk

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biginterview

Sounding a warning note leads to company’s expansion Throughout his career, Dr Howard Dryden has been no stranger to controversy, continually making hard-hitting claims in relation to water quality in everything from aquariums to swimming pools.

His belief that we take water too much for granted has led his company to come up with a whole series of innovative products designed to save the lives of both humans and large aquatic creatures.

Now, the founder of Dryden Aqua, who won the IoD Scotland Director Award for Sustainability Leadership in April, is turning his attention to the future of the planet, concerned that rapidly expanding industrial nations like India and China are threatening global catastrophe with their discharge of chemicals into the world’s seas.

Dr Dryden first became concerned about toxins in water when he was at university.

He formed his marine biological company in 1980 when he was still studying, and initially acted as a consultant specialising in water quality and treatment technology.

Among his early work was improving the quality of water in fish farms but when the industry hit recession in the late 1980s/early 1990s, he had to find new areas in which to apply his technology.

That has taken him over the years into projects including work to improve filtration systems for leechate from landfill sites in Argyll and Bute, designing water treatment systems for largescale commercial aquariums and reducing the level of toxic chemicals, known as priority substances, in drinking water in countries including India Much of the work has been involved with the water in swimming pools, a journey that began when he became involved in improving conditions in aquariums and found himself increasingly concerned at the use of chlorine as a disinfectant for water.

Dr Dryden said: “I do not believe the likes of dolphins and killer whales should be kept in captivity but, if they are, then we have to make the conditions as safe as possible.

“We worked on aquariums in the Middle East and Europe and I became concerned about the impact on whales and dolphins.

When you walk into a swimming pool or an aquarium and smell what people say is chlorine, what you are actually smelling is nitrogen trichloride.

“It is dangerous and can cause lung damage and lead to bacterial infections. Many of these animals succumb to lung damage, pneumonia and neurological damage, resulting from the chlorine disinfection byproducts.

“For example, the average life-span of a dolphin in a system with a combined chlorine concentration above 0.2 mg/l is about ten years. In their natural habitat, dolphins live for 50 years.”

The result was development of a new form of filter now used in many aquariums, a technology that has also been applied successfully in many thousands of swimming pools around the world.

According to Dr Dryden, the heart of any swimming-pool water-treatment system is the sand in the sand filter yet there is huge variation in sand quality from different suppliers and quarries.

Dryden Aqua was instrumental in developing a new filtration media to replace sand,

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known as AFM, which Dr Dryden says is vital because of the serious health implications for children exposed to nitrogen tetrachloride, including lung damage.

The company’s treatment technology is in use in 100,000 swimming pools across Europe but, ironically, very few in the UK. Dr Dryden said: “The problem for the UK pool industry is that there are no formal standards. There are standards in countries such as Switzerland, Germany, Austria and the Netherlands, where we work - we now supply 80% of all pool installations in Switzerland and more than 100,000 installations in Europe - but there are only guidelines in the UK. “Unless people are told to do something they will not do it. We are concerned that people are being exposed to the potential for lung damage and similar conditions but our efforts to have standards introduced have proved unsuccessful.

“It is a shocking situation and we need to do something about it. Our mission is to eliminate toxic chlorine by-products and provide the best air and water quality on the market.”

He sees a direct link between his work in aquariums and in swimming pools,

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biginterview

Dr Howard Dryden Founder Dryden Aqua

saying: “There is no excuse for aquatic mammals such as dolphins to suffer from lung and neurological harm. This is not theory or something that requires years of deliberation: it is fact.

Our mission is to bring to the UK pool industry the same benefits that we have brought to the environment for aquatic mammals.

“Our mission is to bring to the UK pool industry the same benefits that we have brought to the environment for aquatic mammals.”

In order to help pool operators in the UK make considered decisions, the AFM sand-glass-based system was tested under the European Verification standards, and benchmarked against sand and all available glass media. The results confirmed that it performed better than the best sand.

To meet the demand for AFM, Dryden Aqua has now constructed the most sophisticated glass filter media manufacturing facility in the world, in Edinburgh, and is processing 40,000 tonnes per year, sufficient to provide the entire pool industry in Europe.

Also in the new facility are three laboratories, two of which are for checking AFM, with the third being for water and biological analysis. Facilities include DNA testing for cryptosporidium and giardia parasites in pools as well as mobile testing systems for nitrogen

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trichloride in the atmosphere of pool buildings.

Overall, the company employs more than 30 people and is opening new offices in Moscow and Dallas with one of its big focuses being the safety of drinking water; ninety nine per cent of the world’s drinking water goes through sand filters but in countries like India it contains arsenic.

Dr Dryden said: ”A quarter of a billion people in India alone drink water that exceeds the safe limit on arsenic. We are looking at ways to use our technology to reduce that figure.”

He is also worried that the discharge of priority chemicals into the world’s oceans from some industrial nations, India among them, is damaging the ph value of the sea. If the ph level it damaged, he says, the seas cannot carry out their crucial role of capturing carbon dioxide and, if that happens, the effects of climate change will be accelerated.

He said: “People talk about climate change being caused by the burning of fossil fuels but that accounts for only a small percentage of global temperature rises.

I think we are looking in the wrong place because the damage to the sea is much more serious. We could lose everything.”

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advertorial

When it makes sense to ask for help Being in business can be a challenging task at the best of times. So much to do, so much information to absorb, not enough hours in the day.

That is where business support companies come into their own because they can offer assistance in areas including finance, marketing, HR, administration and training.

They bring essential knowledge to SME owner and take many of the worries away from the daily task of running a business.

The advantages of outsourcing such services for SMEs are many, including the fact that it can represent a flexible approach to problem-solving.

Support companies are often prepared to negotiate advantageous terms and conditions for clients, perhaps based on a job-by-job basis or a fixed-price project cost.

That means that a SME can sign a deal that is specifically tailored to its needs, which can work out more cost-effective.

And even though the company is not employing a full-time member of staff itself, it is still supporting jobs within other companies. Such arrangements can help both parties grow.

One big advantage of outsourcing business support services is that SMEs can pick and mix the kind of services that they require.

They may already have a selection of specialist skills in-house and require additional support on only a few specific elements of a project.

It makes sense to do so. Very often, a small business does not have in-house specialism in all the disciplines it requires and battling on without seeking expert help can turn out to be a false economy.

businessconnect

A changing landscape Outsourcing business support services is providing a boost to the local economy, creating and preserving jobs, particularly at a time of such dramatic change.

Take HR, for example. Workplace legislation changes at such a rapid rate that a SME needs specialist support to ensure it does not fall foul of employment law.

Finance is the same. SMEs need expertise in such a complex area of business and it often makes sense to buy it in.

For instance, companies providing such services are stepping in to carry out work in traditional local and central government areas as councils and Whitehall departments slash budgets in the likes of back-office functions, HR and marketing.

Not only has that led to more work being outsourced to the private sector but we are also seeing former public sector employees setting up their own businesses to offer their expertise to a whole new range of clients.

The same with training, vital in order to ensure that employees possess the very latest knowledge and skills.

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Administration is another popular area of business support; whether it be administrative support, office management or providing business premises, it can save a lot of time and effort to buy it in.

Going out of house to specialist business support companies allows them to bring in those skills as and when required.

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Marketing is another example. Companies can try to do the work themselves but it often makes sense to bring in professionals who can write compelling copy, source professional images, communicate with the media and harness the power of social marketing platforms to raise their clients‘ profiles.

Pick and mix

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advertorial

Certification to ISO 9001 Comes of Age A new version of ISO 9001 will be published in 2015 and there will be a three year transition period.

It is available now from BSI and others as a draft International Standard for purchase and review.

There are already many excellent summaries of the likely changes that will appear in the published standard including one from the CQI. There are many substantive changes and it uses language that relates equally well to service and manufacturing organizations, and achieves a longed for maturity that reflects its place alongside excellence based standards.

Although there will be no need to make significant change to existing ISO 9001

certified management systems the new version will not require a quality manual and a management representative. It will bring top management and their leadership into sharper focus and require integration of risk based thinking and control.

The new framework used in the standard promotes integration with all the related management standards such as Health and Safety, Environment, Risk and others.

The management bureaucracy doesn’t need to shift, but where that has been

the focus the change in attitude and implementation will be very significant and for some the earth will have to move.

It will not be possible to delegate the quality role and just present an operating bureaucracy.

Certification to a quality standard has always been the start of a journey. This new roadmap helps avoid dead ends and more clearly signposts the way to business excellence.

KINGSWAY MANAGEMENT SERVICES LIMITED Kingsway Management Services is a local Quality Consultancy providing business improvement assistance through quality.

Our emphasis is business improvement so we focus on the voice of the customer and how that is deployed and implemented in the organization in a measurable fashion.

Collaboration with customers and within the organization is enhanced with the tools we use. Our speciality is clear, clean and attractive cloud based management systems that use flowcharts and link to documents, forms and data. This can be extended to incorporate knowledge management.

Cost saving tools using Digital pen technology are included in our management system options

Our training program incorporates sessions on: • Linking cloud based charts to data; • Preparing for the new ISO 9001 version; • Visual communications.

We operate with major international organizations and local companies and can offer expert services in prequalification services, medical devices, marine renewables and measurement and calibration including uncertainty of estimate.

Send us an email paul.hayes@kmsltd.com, give us a call 0131 445 7159 or visit our website www.kmsltd.com to make contact.

Kingsway Management Services Ltd Midlothian Innovation Centre Roslin Midlothian EH25 9RE +44 (0)131 445 7159 | paul.hayes@kmsltd.com

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businessconnect

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MARKETING

Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland

Would you like to help your staff achieve healthy goals?

We’ll take care of it!

The Health Promotion Scheme is an exciting new partnership aimed at businesses across central Scotland launched by Scotland’s Health Charity, Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland (CHSS).

CHSS Advice & Support and Fundraising departments have joined forces to deliver an innovative programme, combining blood pressure screenings with individual lifestyle assessments and a choice of interactive activities from our team of Health Promotion Specialists.

What are the benefits?

Participation in the scheme can help meet staff health and corporate social responsibility goals for your business. It’s been shown that through investing in the health and wellbeing of employees, businesses benefit by seeing an increase in staff productivity and morale, as well as a decrease in staff absence and turnover.

What’s on offer?

In Scotland:

Blood pressure screening and lifestyle assessments As well as checking blood pressure levels for staff, our Health Promotion Specialists will offer individual lifestyle assessments to raise awareness of risk factors and provide advice on how to reduce these by making healthier lifestyle choices.

Interactive workshops We have fun and engaging sessions to equip staff with important healthy lifestyle messages.

Support for staff-run health promotion activities Further resources can be provided to support your staff to run their own regular health and wellbeing groups.

I enjoyed the fact that I could get a blood pressure check without making an appointment and waiting at my GP outside of work hours

• • • •

1 in 10 people is living with chest, heart or stroke illness 1 in 3 people have high blood pressure Every 45 minutes someone has a stroke Every 45 minutes someone has a heart attack

How you can get involved?

In return for this service, you can work in partnership with us to raise funds to support people living with chest, heart and stroke conditions across Scotland. Ideas include: • • • • •

Choosing CHSS as your ‘Charity of the Year’ Organising fundraising events in your workplace Entering CHSS fundraising events – individually or as corporate teams Promoting payroll giving Encouraging staff to volunteer for us

To find out more visit www.chss.org.uk/healthpromotion or call George Grierson or Laura Hastings on 0131 225 6963

businessnews

The impact of separation or divorce in a family business

By Marika Franceschi, Partner at Shoosmiths The impact of a separation or divorce between business partners or shareholders in a family company can have a catastrophic effect. In some cases, spouses are making considerable contributions to the growth and success of the business in question and so the thought that they may have a claim to a share in its value may be less controversial.

However, in all too many cases, a claimant spouse receives a windfall due to a lack of forward planning.

It is quite common for family businesses, particularly those on their second or third generations, to outgrow the original structure of the business. They may have developed from a sole-trader to a partnership in order to bring in other family members or in response to tax advice.

Further changes to business structure can be fuelled by the desire to protect personal assets or to implement management decisions. It is primarily through the restructuring of family businesses that

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assets are unwittingly converted from nonmatrimonial property ( i.e. assets that would not be taken into account in assessing the value of property to be divided between spouses on divorce ) into matrimonial property. Typical changes to the structure of family businesses include conversions from partnership to limited company, the creation of holding companies and “share for share” schemes whereby a shareholder of one company is allocated shares in an entirely different company. All too often, such changes take place without any consideration of the impact this could have on the value of divorce claims further down the line, usually because divorce is the last thing on anyone’s mind at the time.

In some cases involving conversions of assets, a spouse who has their own income and has never contributed to the family business will find that they are entitled to share in the value of their spouse’s share in the business even if the business was set up many years before their marriage. If the business is valuable this can dramatically increase the value of the other spouse’s

claim on divorce and lead to problems for the business owner in meeting such a claim. Most businesses, particularly small to medium enterprises (SMEs), operate with little in the way of cash reserves and a significant claim could result in the business owner spouse having to sell their interest or, in the worst cases, sale of the business itself.

It is not difficult to imagine the emotional and destructive impact this has on a family whose livelihood and sense of achievement has depended on this business for, in some cases, several generations.

When taking advice on how best to protect and grow your family business for future generations, it is important to consider the implications of separation or divorce further down the line, even if that is not currently in contemplation. Likewise, if you are considering a gift or transfer of assets to children or grandchildren for IHT or succession planning purposes, you should consult a specialist family lawyer for advice on the best way to protect these assets from divorce. www.shoosmiths.co.uk

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advertorial

Innovation the key in the world of conferences and exhibitions Like the rest of the economy, the conferences and exhibitions industry has been through challenging times but the signs are that innovation continues to offer hope for the future.

The main reason for the sector’s resilience, according to industry experts, is its ability to constantly try out new things while never losing touch with the needs of its clients.

That has been underlined by several sources, including the report compiled jointly 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.

So 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 is a good location, somewhere that is easy to reach and attractive for delegates.

If the directions look too complicated, some attendees may think twice about attending.

So think road and rail links when you choose.

When assessing the venue you are looking at other factors 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? In short, can it cope?

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.

One 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.

A recent report by Market Intelligence provider Key Note said that, although the economic downturn resulted in a significant drop in activity in the corporate hospitality sector, some companies still saw good reasons for continuing.

Key Note said that the total value of the UK corporate hospitality market fell by 2.5% to £1.2bn between 2007 and 2011 but that some companies have continued to invest in corporate events, recognising that strengthening the relationships between client and business partner during a recession is more important than ever.

Spectator sports remained the most popular choice for provision of corporate entertainment, including everything from a trip to the races or a visit to see a football match.

As a result, the company believes that the corporate hospitality industry will increase by 8.5% to reach a value of £1.34bn in 2016.

A Magical Melville Christmas Awaits...

Celebrate this Year’s Festive Season in fine style and

join the fabulous Christmas Party nights

within the classic grandeur of Melville Castle.

With tailored packages available for both shared or private party nights, we know we can help you enjoy your best ever Christmas party yet!

Shared Christmas Party Nights— from only £44.95 pp A glass of fizz from our silver trays on arrival

 

A delicious 3 course Christmas meal in the Viscount room Enjoy 1/2 a bottle of wine from our cellars

  

Teas & Coffees to round off your meal

Complimentary Christmas decorations & tree

Dance the night away with our Ballroom Disco 7pm to 12.00am - Friday: December 5th, 12th, 19th Saturday: December 6th, 20th

To book Email: Debbie@Melvillecastle.com T: 0131 654 0088

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Menu : Roasted Parsnip and Melville Honey Soup ~ Smoked Ham Hoch Terrine, served with Spiced Apricot Chutney **** Organic Turkey Paupiette, Cranberry and Chestnut Stuffing, Fondant Potato, Roast Root Vegetables and Turkey Jus ~ Roast Cod with Pancetta, Pea &Lentil Broth **** ~ Melville Castle's home-made Christmas Pudding with Clotted Cream ~ Vanilla and Ginger Cheesecake with mulled Winter Fruits Tea or Coffee with Petit Fours

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A truly unique setting for your next event Meetings and training venue • Budget group accommodation Private dining • Private tours • Small weddings Tel: 0131 663 1921 enquiries@newbattleabbey.com www.newbattleabbey.com

M ACDONA LD HOUSTOUN HOUSE HOTEL

Easy to access and with ample free parking, we offer unique meeting and events facilities, luxury accommodation, superb dining and are the perfect choice for your next event whether it be a board meeting, gala dinner or conference.

• Conference facilities for up to 400

• Free on-site parking

• Six meeting rooms

• Meeting@ all-inclusive delegate rates

• 73 beautiful bedrooms

• Two AA Rosette awarded Jeremy Wares Restaurant

• Extensive grounds for team building

• Free WiFi and extra dedicated bandwidth

Macdonald Houstoun House Hotel, Uphall, West Lothian, EH52 6JS. Tel: 0844 879 9043

W W W. MACDONALDHOTEL S .CO.U K /HOUS TOU N HOUSE

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membersnews

Honour for company Letting Solutions has won an award at the Estate Letting Agent Awards.

The Livingston-based agency received the Best in County award in West Lothian with the award announced by Phil Spencer, the TV property expert at a ceremony at the Hilton Park Lane, London, attended by 700 of the UK’s top estate and letting agents and suppliers to the industry.

Phil Spencer, who has hosted the ESTAS every year since their inception in 2004, said: “An agent’s role is about guiding people through one of the most stressful times in their lives and that’s not an easy job. In a world where it’s becoming increasingly difficult to make contact with a real person in a company isn’t it so refreshing that you can phone almost any estate or letting agent in the UK and get straight through to a real person. The ESTAS help agencies to focus on customer service levels and that’s why agencies keep coming back”.

Agents were shortlisted in 18 regions around the UK. National Grand Prix Awards were

also announced for the Best Single Agent Office in sales and lettings.

judged our performance.

“We take our levels of customer service very seriously because we know clients have a choice. We have always been very proud of the personal service we provide and this is great way to demonstrate how good we really are.”

Susan and Brian Callaghan, Joint Managing Directors of Letting Solutions, said “We are absolutely thrilled to be recognised at this year’s ESTAS. It means so much to us as we know it’s our customers who have

Flying high on success Do you want positive publicity and recognition for your business?

Many companies consider entering for business awards but then the pressures of business and lack of time mean that they never get that all important entry in.

However, winning a business award can really be worth the effort when you see the huge benefits it can reap.

Winning a business award will raise your profile, enhance your reputation, instil trust, attract new business and ultimately make you more profitable. Winning an award also works wonders within a company, boosting morale and motivation of your staff, acknowledging the contribution and achievements of your staff.

Putting together a business award entry often helps business owners to reflect on their success but also the process of putting things in writing can help to clarify the direction and strategies of the company.

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Here at West Lothian Chamber of Commerce we want to recognise and applaud local businesses successes and this is why we hold our annual business awards to showcase and celebrate local enterprise. We are justifiably proud of the talent and hard work of our businesses and we want to reward this.

Andrew Morrell, Sales & Marketing Manager, Sibbald Training commented on winning Best Business Award 2013: “Sibbald are proud to have been recognised as a Best Business in West Lothian 2013 as there are plenty of others deserving of this prestigious accolade locally. Wining such an award is obviously great when trying to attract new business or reinforcing our credentials to our customers but without question it also gives recognition back to our very own staff for a job well done and to the motivation to continue in this vain.”

Winning a business award can really reap rewards for your business, so if you are interested in entering your business, please get your nomination in now!

Full information at www.wlchamber.com/ business-excellence-awards

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membersnews

£350,000 investment in Southdale Project Scottish Government investment in a major building project between Edinburgh and Glasgow will create jobs, strengthen skills and grow the economy.

The latest phase of the Southdale, one of Scotland’s largest regeneration projects has received £350,000 from the Housebuilding Infrastructure Loan Fund.

Aboot 380 homes will be built by Taylor Wimpey and Bellway in the next two to four years in a southern extension to the town of Armadale in West Lothian. The land will also

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be transferred back to the Council to deliver a new Primary School at the site.

Cabinet Secretary for Training, Youth and Women’s Employment Angela Constance was present to break ground for the new housing at the Bellway Homes site.

Being so centrally located and within equal distance from Scotland’s two largest cities also makes the project even more attractive to investors and potential home buyers and I will watch progress on Southdale with a great deal of interest.”

She said: “The Southdale development will not only create a new community in West Lothian, complete with its own primary school, it will boost local skills and employment, creating jobs in construction and other sectors vital to the Scottish economy.

Sandra Carter, Director for Southdale developers, EWP Investments Ltd, said: “We are delighted to welcome the Cabinet Secretary taking time out of her busy schedule to break ground for the second phase of housing and would like to thank the community for their strong backing for this exciting development.”

I am very pleased that the Scottish Government has been able to invest in the next phase of Southdale. We will continue to work with West Lothian Council, firms and key stakeholders to ensure the project continues to develop, strengthening Scotland’s infrastructure and boosting economic growth.

Southdale is one of Scotland’s largest and fastest growing regeneration projects and over the next few months we will be engaging in some intensive promotion to attract investors into West Lothian and to our development, bringing with them considerable employment opportunities.”

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newmembers

West Lothian Arthur J Gallagher (UK) Stephen Brown Stephen_Brown@ajg.com www.ajginternational.com Bles Training Anne Kerr 01506 634010 bles.training@btconnect.com Business Boost Expert Beverley Anderson 01506 301114 office@businessboostexpert.com www.businessboostexpert.com CeeD Scotland Ralph Harkess 01698 203420 r.harkess@ceed-scotland.com www.ceed-scotland.com Community Food Initiatives David Herd 01501 763201 dherd@cfine.org www.cfine.org

Craft Worx Limited Lynn Turner 01506 636991 lynn@craftworx-renovation.com www.craftworx-renovation.com

Philip Bald Accountancy Ian Kelly 0131 334 5613 admin@philipbaldaccountancy.co.uk www.philipbaldaccountancy.co.uk

Golden Print Graeme Golden 07583 261 681 info@goldenprint.co.uk www.goldenprint.co.uk

Pumpherston Golf Club Richard Fyvie 01506 433336 manager@pumpherstongolfclub.co.uk www.pumpherstongolfclub.co.uk

Junglebeat Marketing Suzanne Johnston 01592 870131 info@junglebeatmarketing.co.uk www.junglebeatmarketing.co.uk

RMS Scotland Ltd Jim Lenaghan 08444 141 767 jim@rmspos.co.uk www.rmspos.co

Mavor & Co Pat Mavor 01506 870204 pat@mavorproperty.co.uk www.mavorproperty.co.uk

Time and Wealth Creator Spencer Thomson 07795 630278 Spencerthomson@uwclub.net

connect business

Welcoming all our new Members to Mid, East and West Lothian Chamber of Commerce

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newmembers

Midlothian and East Lothian Abbey Print & Design Ltd Jim Morgan Proprietor 0131 4540200 office@abbeyprintanddesign.com www.abbeyprintanddesign.com

Cockenzie House & Gardens Sheila Ritchie Trustee 01875 819456 info@cockenziehouseandgardens.com www.cockenziehouseandgardens.com

LEMAC (Lothian Electric Machines Ltd) Liz Blunsum Managing Director 01620 828700 info@lemac.com www.lemac.com

Aberdein Considine Charlie Fraser Partner 01783 450700 cfraser@acandco.com www.acandco.com

GS Electrical Services (Edinburgh) Ltd Glynn Shearer Proprietor 07732 474 880 glynnshearer@aol.com www.gselectricalservices.co.uk

Lloyds Bank Commercial Finance Gayle Innes Robertson Regional Manager 0131 655 2672 / 07585 401433 gayle.innesrobertson@lloydsbankcf.co.uk www.lloydsbank.com/commercialfinance

Caughey Solutions Ltd Julie Caughey Director 07505 111491 jcaughey1313@btinternet.com www.caugheysolutions.co.uk

Hangar Framing Kirsten Boston Proprietor 01620 850946 info@hangarframing.com www.hangarframing.com

Oliver Asset Management Roland Oliver Director 0131 273 5202 roland@oliverassetmgmt.co.uk www.oliverassetmgmt.co.uk

CeeD (Centre for Engineering, Education & Development) Ralph Harkess Business Development Manager 07539 922497 r.harkess@ceed-scotland.com www.ceed-scotland.com

HR Dept Ian Pilbeam Director 0845 296 2731 / 07842 195692 Ian.Pilbeam@hrdept.co.uk www.hrdept.co.uk

Thomas Haywood Photography Thomas Haywood Proprietor 07968 085609 photos@thomashaywood.com www.thomashaywood.com

Kingsway Management Services Ltd Paul Hayes Managing Director 0131 445 7159 / 07743 591000 paul.hayes@kmsltd.com www.kmsltd.com

Wild Strawberry Productions Joanna Jamrozy Proprietor 07455 994273 joanna@wildstrawberryproductions.com www.wildstrawberryproductions.com

Clear Mortgage Solutions Dominic Taddei Managing Director 0131 603 4440 dominic@clearmortgagesolutions.co.uk www.clearmortgagesolutions.co.uk

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Young SET Ambassadors Prof. Aileen Lothian Director 07840 765858 aileen@youngsetambassadors.com www.youngsetambassadors.com

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chambernews

Encouraging youth development West Lothian Chamber is working in partnership with public agencies, Federation of Small Businesses, Third Sector organisations and the business community to help inspire and develop the future talent of young people.

It is hoped that through engagement with young people, participation of local employers, increasing work experience opportunities a positive ‘can do’ attitude

will flourish, encouraging the next generation of possible entrepreneurs.

Linda Scott, Chief Executive, West Lothian Chamber of Commerce commented: “It is so important for the business community to engage with their future employees at a young age and invest in their learning to ensure the correct skills and attitudes are developed for them to use in the future. When businesses make actual

contact with the pupils it makes the future of work seem more real and attainable.

It opens their eyes to new and different opportunities that they may not previously had considered”.

Two recent projects highlighted the potential success of business involvement with encouraging young people to be innovative and develop their individual skills and talent.

F1 in Schools Challenge Team ROBUS are a team of five students from Deans Community High School who have been taking part in the Formula 1 in Schools project, a global multi-disciplinary challenge in which teams of students design, test, manufacture and race a miniature Formula 1 car against other schools.

The challenge inspires students to develop skills across a range of areas such as maths, science, engineering, manufacturing and business to name but a few, as well as developing skills that are vital within the world of work and throughout life. The team must also raise sponsorship and manage budgets to fund research, travel and accommodation.

Team ROBUS have achieved the incredible feat of progressing through the Scottish regional heats, the British finals and are now

the sole team representing Scotland in this year’s World Finals in Ferrari World Abu Dhabi this November

“Pump it Up” pioneering innovators from thin air The Pump it Up challenge, supported by Mitsubishi Electric, was piloted this year at Armadale Academy with a view to rolling it out to all West Lothian secondary schools in 2015.

The students were required to design an innovative use for a heat pump, encouraging budding engineers from Armadale Academy to develop a better understanding of the science and technology involved in “green” energy.

Run over three mornings with 160 children from S3 taking part, each session involved approximately 50 pupils who were split in to groups to research and design a use for a heat pump then presented their idea to the judges.

A winning group from each session visited Mitsubishi Electric in Livingston for a factory tour before presenting their ideas to the senior management. The final winners of the challenge were presented with their prizes at Armadale Academy by the President of Mitsubishi Electric.

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membercloseup

MEMBER CLOSE-UP Company Name: Laidlaw Lettings Name: Susan Laidlaw Position: Owner Website: www.laidlawlettings.co.uk What are the main activities of the business?

Laidlaw Lettings is a property management company looking after properties in East Lothian and Edinburgh, for long-term, short-term and holiday let purposes.

Are you enjoying what you do everyday?

I really enjoy what I do everyday as I love property and I get to meet lots of people, landlords and tenants from all walks of life, which I find very interesting. I also have the outlook that life is too short so you should be doing something you enjoy to make the most of it!

As a business person, describe your three main qualities?

Susan Laidlaw

What is your favourite way to unwind?

A glass of red wine in the garden! When it isn’t raining of course!

Professionalism, experience and honesty.

If you could choose anyone, who would be your fantasy dinner party guests and why?

What has been your most satisfying moment in business?

The Stig to find out who he really is!

Everytime I am asked to look after another property is a moment of satisfaction.

What advice would you give to others who trying to be successful in business?

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

Keep focused and try to keep good relationships with your competitors as you may well need their assistance or vice versa in the future.

Letting agents in general have a poor reputation so being able to prove that my business is different can be difficult, unless I am given the opportunity.

If you could turn the clock back, what would you have changed about your business career?

Where do you see yourself in 10-years?

Running this business but with a few more properties in the portfolio!

I would not change anything in my business career as I feel it has given me the foundations for building a great business.

I would not change anything in my business career as I feel it has given me the foundations for building a great business.

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To take care of business.

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To leapfrog the tailback.

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To fly from Edinburgh to London City Airport, with up to 11 flights on week days.

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