Business Scotland 11

BusinessScotland Scottish Chambers of Commerce Magazine

Apprenticeship boost for Scottish economy

Developing prosperity in Edinburgh through a low carbon lens Expanding Scottish business connections to China Building the best railway Scotland’s ever had

Scottish Chambers of Commerce

SPRING 2018

FUND THE GAP Business loans of up to £100,000

www.bls.scot

BusinessScotland

CONTENTS

SPRING 2018

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DEVELOPING PROSPERITY IN EDINBURGH THROUGH A LOW CARBON LENS EASY TO USE IZETTLE HELPED TO GROW SCOTTISH MILKSHAKE BAR ABERDEEN & GRAMPIAN CHAMBER PLEDGES ARMED FORCES SUPPORT CALMAC SETS UP COMMUNITY BOARD

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CAITHNESS CHAMBER TO HOST ONLY EDIC IN SCOTLAND

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NES PLANNING A MAJOR EXPANSION IN SCOTLAND

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BUILDING THE BEST RAILWAY SCOTLAND’S EVER HAD

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APPRENTICESHIP BOOST FOR SCOTTISH ECONOMY

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SCOTLAND’S LONG TRADITION OF GLOBAL ENTERPRISE AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP INNOVATING SUCCESS

Scottish Chambers of Commerce Business Partners

Front Cover image: Skills Development Scotland, Foundation Apprentice Frazer Wallace

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DIVERSITY – THE KEY TO SUCCESS EXPANDING SCOTTISH BUSINESS CONNECTIONS TO CHINA

Just Rock Up

The Scottish Event Campus just got a wee bit better. upgraded in line with the new facility and will The Meeting Academy is also available for use as a VIP space, a media lounge and for form part of the SEC Meeting Academy. drinks receptions.

Director of Conference Sales, Kathleen To find out more about how to host a Warden, said: “The SEC Meeting Academy meeting for 100 – 400 delegates, please is a fantastic addition to our campus. The drop us a line. Alternatively, you can pop in flexibility of the space means that we can for a site visit. accommodate more small to mid-sized meetings whilst offering larger events more The kettle is always on. space and more diversity in the product.

“The space is tailored to the needs of organisers and delegates, whether it be for training or a smaller local corporate meeting for 200 – 300, or for a large conference of 2000 – 3000. The new space has integrated informal workstations and charging points, and the latest conferencing technology for interactive sessions. The The £500,000 investment has transformed reaction from our clients has been terrific the space into a modern, Scandi-themed It’s a great enhancement inside the campus meeting venue suitable for 300-400 theatre and complements the evolution we have style. As well as the larger theatre space, going on outside the campus; from the new four smaller meeting rooms, formerly hotels to a whisky distillery.” known as the Seminar Suite, are also being The Scottish Event Campus has just launched its new meeting space – The SEC Meeting Academy. The new space is a repurposing of an underutilised former restaurant on the mezzanine floor of the SEC Centre.

Scottish Event Campus

+44 (0)141 275 6232 | secmeetingacademy@sec.co.uk | sec.co.uk/secmeetingacademy

GUEST FOREWORD

Scotland’s ambition is to be the inventor and the producer, not just a consumer Damien Yeates

Chief Executive, Skills Development Scotland

The impact of artificial intelligence, automation and the unfolding fourth industrial revolution are gaining increasing profile within the public consciousness, as policy makers and business leaders grapple with the prospect of even more disruption.

We ignore these advances at our peril but therein lies opportunity. In the words of the First Minister: “Scotland’s ambition is to be the inventor and the producer, not just a consumer, of the innovations that will shape the lives of our children and grandchildren.”

We should keep in mind that Scotland has faced, and ultimately thrived through periods of major transformation brought about by advancements in technology in the past. The legacy of a searing financial crisis, a loss in

business confidence, a fall in real incomes and a technological revolution were the direct precursors to the industrial revolution in the mid 19th century1.

As a society, we have shown the resilience to thrive through change and the ability to create opportunities from challenge. We need to do so again.

Looking ahead, we know that low productivity, a tightening labour market, longer term pressures on public spending and the rapid rate of change are very real challenges for our economy.

As the national skills agency, Skills Development Scotland (SDS) is responding on many levels. Extensive evidence from around the globe points to a high correlation between economic resilience, higher levels of productivity and crucially, industry leadership and investment in skills.

We continue to champion the critical role of Scottish businesses in building the capabilities of the workforce today and into the future. With the strong backing of Scottish Government, we have supported industry to rapidly expand the number of apprenticeship opportunities.

Alongside the growth in Modern Apprenticeships, SDS is working hand-inglove with business to further promote the value of work-based learning, with new apprentices combining on-the-job training with academic studies.

Innovative new developments in the form of Foundation and Graduate Apprenticeships enable industry and employers to lead and invest in young talent straight from school, right up to Masters degree level.

Through the Scottish Government’s Enterprise and Skills Review, SDS is also collaborating with the Scottish Funding Council to ensure that the investment of around £1.7bn in the Higher and Further Education system is more responsive and aligned to the skills required by Scotland’s businesses and economy.

If we are to embrace the challenges ahead and thrive in the fourth industrial revolution as we have done in the past, we firmly believe that businesses have a lead role to play in developing and upskilling the talent of the future.

We are moving towards a new economic model which will, more than ever, thrive on workforce competencies built around the innate ‘human’ skills of – critical thinking, problem solving, creativity, collaboration and communication. By combining on-thejob learning alongside rigorous academic learning, we can more rapidly upskill and reskill Scotland’s workforce “to be the inventor and the producer”. Crucially business must be in the lead. !. ‘The Spectre of Monetarism’, Mark Carney, Roscoe Lecture, Liverpool John Moores University, 2016

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CHAMBER SPOTLIGHT

Developing prosperity in Edinburgh through a low carbon lens Recovering from the financial crash, political instability, Brexit. Don’t businesses have enough on their plates without having to worry about carbon emissions?

That was just one of the questions raised

by Dame Susan Rice, Chair of Scotland’s 2020 Climate Group and Liz McAreavey, CEO, Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce, at a workshop organised by Edinburgh Sustainable Development Partnership, 13 November.

The aim was to provoke a discussion that would engage businesses in Edinburgh’s planning for a sustainable future.

A previous audience at the City Arts Centre had already been ‘provoked’ by Martin Valenti, Vice Chair of Scotland’s 2020 Climate Group.

“Scotland is on track to consume the equivalent of three planets’ worth of natural resources if we continue to use them up at current levels,” he had told them. “Setting ambitious targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions gives Scotland a unique opportunity to create sustainable economic growth, improve the environment and benefit health.”

Dame Rice and Liz McAreavey delivered a similar ‘downside/upside’ message: You might think climate change sounds alarmist, abstract or expensive but the reality is, decarbonisation is coming, there are simple, practical ways to start the process and you can make it work for your business.

“Businesses are very resilient,” said Liz McAreavey. “Take Brexit. After the initial shock they started to get their heads around it. If we can put climate change in the

Setting ambitious targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions gives Scotland a unique opportunity to create sustainable economic growth, improve the environment and benefit health.

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Future events and case studies can be found on the following websites: Scotland’s 2020 Climate Group: www.2020climategroup.org.uk Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce: www.edinburghchamber.co.uk Resource Efficient Scotland’s Green Network for Business: www.resourceefficientscotland.com Edinburgh Centre for Carbon Innovation: http://edinburghcentre.org

forefront of their minds, they can handle that, too.”

Dame Rice agreed, adding: “We need to offer examples, role models, partners to small businesses that don’t have a lot of resource.”

Liz McAreavey, Dame Rice and Martin Valenti were among 15 leading figures who met Christiana Figueres, former Executive Secretary of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, in October, at a meeting organised by Scotland’s 2020 Climate Group.

Ms Figueres told them straight: addressing climate change is a moral and economic imperative.

“We must ensure global warming stays at 1.5◦C because it’s the only chance to protect the most vulnerable,” she stated. “We need to ensure the economy transitions smoothly to low carbon, with a 6-7% decarbonisation rate every year until 2050, starting in 2020. Is this possible? We think it is.

“It’s amazing what’s happening around the world,” she continued. “Scotland is a global leader in offshore renewables. The UK, France and India are moving to electric cars. Despite the US coming out of the Paris Agreement, cities and companies in America are decarbonising anyway. They can see the benefits to the economy. China, India and the EU are already moving into the vacuum left

by Washington.”

The former UN diplomat was clearly inspirational.

“A key message I took away from Christiana Figueres is that every city, every business must find a way to reduce carbon emissions in a way that works economically,” Dame Rice told attendees at November’s workshop. “Don’t separate out the economic imperative of your business from decarbonisation. Decarbonisation is not an add-on. It’s about how you decarbonise in a way that works commercially for your business.”

“Most corporates are starting to get the idea,” added Liz McAreavey. “It’s the smaller businesses who are at risk of being left behind. Those with 1-10 employees are focussed on core activity, understandably.

Companies the next size up tend to prioritise talent and scalability. We need to get sustainability in their business strategies.”

Lady Rice agreed. “Learning from others can help.”

BUSINESS PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

Virgin Trains establishes £25 million East Coast Innovation Fund

Innovation plays a central role in meeting the demands of today’s transport users. If we’re to keep pace with the rapid rate of technological progress and changing consumer habits we need to act quickly, and creatively.

That’s why Virgin Trains has established a £25 million innovation fund on its east coast route, which will help explore new ways to solve long-standing issues facing passengers. Our ambition is to adapt the innovative thinking seen in tech and other sectors and apply that to the rail industry.

Over the last year the Innovation Team, led by Nicola McGuinness-Brown, has showcased some impressive results. One which grabbed headlines was Seatfrog, named after an Australian start-up that designed the service with Virgin. This allows

The team has also released an app to help customers navigate London’s King’s Cross station and have launched Platform X, designed to encourage start-ups and other entrepreneurs to collaborate with Virgin Trains on the next big idea. customers in Standard to enter auctions to upgrade to First Class, helping to solve the problem common to many long-distance rail operators of having busy Standard carriages while First Class seats go unused.

Another trailblazer is TrainMapper, which was designed and piloted by the Virgin Trains team but then released for use across the UK rail network. Powered by Google Maps and National Rail Enquiries, this app allows train customers with a one-stop shop to check real-time train running information during disruption. This avoids the need to check different train operators’ websites and social media feeds, instead giving customers alternative route information and a more accurate prediction of how long their journey will be delayed.

As an industry, our track record on innovation hasn’t always been strong: just over half a century ago, we were still producing steam trains while counterparts on the continent had electrified their own rail networks. Our recent performance, thankfully, gives us more optimistic grounds for designing a railway fit for tomorrow’s generation.

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INNOVATION IN BUSINESS

Easy to use iZettle helped to grow Scottish Milkshake Bar Back in 2014, Pete Toye bought a 1971 VW campervan. As an avid milkshake lover, Pete noticed that there was a gap in the market for a milkshake bar in Scotland. along with their crisp design and easy-touse interface, recorded every transaction digitally.

After noting this gap in the market, Pete pitched his business idea of a VW campervan which would serve handicraft milkshakes in shopping centre. The prospect of having such a striking visual in the middle of their shopping centres created a great demand for Pete’s venture from centre owners. So along with his business partner, Pete set about opening the first Bibble Bar in one of the largest shopping centres in the UK - The Silverburn Shopping Centre in Glasgow.

However, one of the most crucial aspects of a small business is to remain organised.

Especially when it comes to your workers, as overstaffing is costly, and understaffing leads to missed out revenue and disappointed customers.

This was when Pete turned to iZettle, a commerce solutions provider which offers

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This precious data enabled Pete to prepare his rotas accordingly for busy periods and therefore maximise his revenue. The data has also afforded Pete the opportunity to take a step back from serving customers and spend more time managing and consequently growing the business.

small businesses tools ranging from card payments to a point-of-sale system. From day one, he used iZettle card readers and iZettle’s POS system in all of his vans, which

Commenting on the commerce solution provider, Pete Toye said: “I personally can’t stand paper, so I love using iZettle’s suite of tools. By having each transaction digitized into such a simple system has given me the opportunity to spend more time growing the business. Now we have opened in multiple locations in Scotland and are planning to expand into the rest of the UK very soon.”

BUSINESS LOANS SCOTLAND

Helping businesses to bridge the funding gap

Are you a Scottish based SME looking to bridge the funding gap? If so, Business Loans Scotland have the answer to providing the finance you require to grow and develop your business.

When it comes to eligibility, companies must be a legally formed, trading SME to be considered. The only stipulation is the business must be able to demonstrate it will thrive at local or Scottish economy level.

Whether a sole trader, partnership, limited company, limited liability partnership, co-operative or a social enterprise, all applications are confidential and handled in an individual basis.

potential to meet their production needs.

Business Loans Scotland builds on the previous successful loan funds, the West of Scotland Loan Fund (WSLF), the East of Scotland Investment Fund (ESIF) and the South of Scotland Loan Scheme offering finance of up to one hundred thousand pounds to Scottish SMEs.

If successful, these loans can be used for working capital or purchasing plant, equipment or business property which in turn will enable the business to grow and have a positive impact in the local economy.

The funding granted so far has been used by businesses to successfully undertake a management buy-out, assist in new product manufacturing, support the build of a new visitor centre, invest in suitable office space and much more.

Speaking of the funding granted, Andrew Dickson, Fund Manager from Business Loans Scotland, added: “Access to capital remains a major hurdle to many small and medium sized businesses which are looking to start up and grow. Often, our funding can make the difference between a business struggling or flourishing and that in turn will have a positive impact on employment, profitability and making communities stronger.”

So far, Business Loans Scotland have supported fifteen Scottish businesses, from nine different local authority regions with the value of loans totalling over eight hundred and sixty thousand pounds.

Obtaining gap funding could not be easier, it only involves a simple five stage application process. After registering your interest via the Business Loans Scotland website, your local Business Adviser will review your enquiry and if eligible, invite you to apply online using the Online Loan Application System. Post completion of your application form, the next step is to upload your business plan and supporting documentation. At this stage Business Loans Scotland appraises the submissions and determines the outcome within a four to sixweek time frame.

WooHa Brewing Company based in Kinloss, Moray, is one of the fifteen Scottish businesses to have already received funding from Business Loans Scotland. WooHa Brewing are dedicated to making great tasting bottle and KeyKeg conditioned beer using expertly blended malts, balanced flavours and cold, clear Scottish water. They were delighted when they were awarded fifty thousand pounds worth of funding from Business Loans Scotland.

Founder and owner of WooHa Brewing, Heather McDonald said: “Our new site means we can increase production five-fold which means we are well on our way to achieving our ambition of becoming one of the UK’s leading craft beer exporters. We believe that in 2018 eighty per cent of our business will be from exports, with the US being the main market.”

With a dedicated pot of seven million pounds available, Business Loans Scotland are keen to speak with any business who may be interested in receiving gap funding. To find out more or to start the application process, please visit the Business Loans Scotland website – www.bls.scot

After moving to a larger production facility a few months ago, the company will use this gap funding for refurbishing, fitting out and optimising these premises to their highest

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MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Marty the Robot joins the teaching team at Dalgety Bay Primary School Fife Chamber member company Augmentum360 is taking the lead in inspiring Scotland’s future scientists and engineers by donating a Marty the Robot kit to the Coding Club at Dalgety Bay Primary School.

Marty is an educational robot created by Dr Sandy Enoch and Finlay Page from Robotical and they joined Andrew Watson and Mario Panetta from company Augmentum360 in presenting Marty to the pupils.

Augmentum360 were approached by Robotics to help them to plan the initial production run for Marty and the Augmentum360 team were so impressed by its capabilities that they decided to buy one and donate it to Dalgety Bay Primary, where Andrew’s wife teaches.

Marty has been so well received at Dalgety Bay that Augmentum360 have decided to purchase some more and donate them to other schools in Fife. They are just one of the many Chamber members that are engaging with Fife’s schools to embed DYW and create more opportunities for the Kingdom’s young people.

2018 Fife Business Award finalists getting ready for their big night The excitement is building for the organisations that have been shortlisted for the 2018 Fife Business Awards.

26 of Fife’s most ambitious and successful businesses and community partnerships have been shortlisted across the 11 award categories.

Fife Chamber President Peter Southcott said: “Fife is full of great businesses with fantastic success stories. The shortlisted nominees range from small start-ups and individual entrepreneurs to long-established companies. They demonstrate the breadth of business success and ambition we are very lucky to have in Fife.

I want to commend and thank all the organisations that took the time and effort to submit an application. Year on year, the quality of applications continues to impress, and our judging panels always have a tough job selecting the shortlists for each category.

This year was no exception.”

The winners will be announced at a glitzy awards ceremony at the Glen Pavilion in Dunfermline, where television and radio broadcaster Grant Stott is reprising his role as Master of Ceremonies and will lead 350 business, political and community leaders from Fife in applauding the winners.

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The full shortlist is: Most Enterprising Start-up Company sponsored by Ingenico Northern Europe Beat Box Productions MOFgen NautoShark Best Performing Business (Under 50 employees) sponsored by EQ Accountants

Success through Sustainability sponsored

by Kettle Produce Bright Green Hydrogen Ivan Wood & Sons Success through UK & International Trade sponsored by Diageo Gerco-Fas Ingenico Northern Europe

EPS Services & Tooling

Success through Innovation sponsored by Condies

Horisk Leslie Development

Fife Gingerbread

Avtek (Scotland)

Best Performing Business (Over 50 employees) sponsored by Thomson Cooper Accountants

Fife Health and Social Care Partnership St Andrews Brewers

Fairmont St Andrews

Excellence in Customer Service sponsored

by Semefab

Ingenico Northern Europe

Ingenico Northern Europe

REEL Service Ltd

MKM Building Supplies

Excellence in People Development sponsored by Exxon Mobil

St Andrews Management Centre

Ingenico Northern Europe

Excellence in Tourism sponsored by Forth Ports

Old Course Hotel

Connoseuir Golf

Velux Company

Cruise Forth

Developing the Young Workforce sponsored by BAE Systems AMS Fairmont St Andrews Kingdom Housing Association

Eden Mill Excellence in Food & Drink Eden Mill Ivan Wood & Sons Rufflets Hotel

CHAMBER NEWS

Chief executive of Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce Russell Borthwick & Captain Nick R V Dorman RD ADC RNR signing the UK Armed Forces Covenant

Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber pledges Armed Forces support Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce has signed the UK Armed Forces Covenant, making a commitment to support the country’s servicemen and women wherever and however it can and to ensure no member of the Armed Forces should suffer any disadvantage as a result of their service.

Chief executive Russell Borthwick signed the Covenant on 20th November of last year at the Chamber’s headquarters in Aberdeen.

The document was co-signed on behalf of the Ministry of Defence (MoD) by Captain Nick R V Dorman RD ADC RNR.

Mr Borthwick said of the signing: “As an organisation we are committed to creating a wide range of employment opportunities and recognise the value the highly-skilled and experienced members of the Armed Forces can bring to a workforce.

their families, and by demonstrating its support Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce is helping to provide employment and opportunity for our servicemen, regular, retired and reserve, in the Aberdeen community.”

The Chamber’s commitments to honouring the Covenant include a pledge to:

“This Covenant is a key partnership recognising the work of all our armed services, both past and present. Through our support we hope to bring awareness to the wider business community.”

The Covenant signing was organised by Highland Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association and attended – along with the signatories – by the organisation’s Regional Employer Engagement Director Michelle McKearnon.

n Promote the fact it is an Armed Forcesfriendly organisation. n Endeavour to offer a degree of flexibility in granting leave for Service spouses and partners before, during and after a partner’s deployment. n Seek to support employees who choose to be members of the Reserve Forces, including by accommodating their training and deployment where possible. n Offer support to local cadet units in collaboration with the local Developing the Young Workforce youth employment strategy.

Captain Dorman added: “It is great that the Chamber has signed the Covenant and, on behalf of those who serve or who have served in our Armed Forces and their families, we would like to thank them for demonstrating their commitment to supporting the Armed Forces community.

“The Covenant brings together the government, businesses, local authorities, charities and the public in order to support those who have served our country and

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CHAMBER NEWS

Gordon Dewar, Business Excellence Awards

Business Excellence Award Winners

West Lothian Awards highlight business success Once again here at West Lothian Chamber we are delighted to be able to highlight just some of the innovation and true business success in our area.

Each year the Chamber awards, in partnership with our sponsors, celebrate the achievements of local businesses as we feel it is important that West Lothian is recognised for its business success and that it is highlighted as a region that holds unlimited potential for the future.

This thought was expressed by our keynote speaker and main sponsor, Gordon Dewar, Chief Executive of Edinburgh Airport, as he called on businesses in West Lothian to realise the extent of its ‘pulling power potential’ as a world class hub for investment. He went on to further describe the region as ‘exceptionally ambitious’, encouraging communities to see the potential that is there to be harnessed and used as a business opportunity.

Those being recognised this year included Waste Switch Ltd with the Entrepreneur and Business Start Up Award, (sponsor Business Gateway West Lothian), JHM Dance and Fitness business owner was recognised for her commitment to the business and her local community through the Shona Sibbald Woman in Business Award presented by the Sibbald Group.

Family owned, and managed businesses shone through with Dacoll Ltd, an independent provider IT services, receiving the Excellence in Staff Learning and Development Award from West Lothian College and the Best Tourism Business Award went to Williamscraig Holiday Cottages supported by Mercure Livingston.

The High Growth and Innovation Award (supported by West Lothian Economic Growth Plan) was won by family business

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David Philp Commercials Ltd for their outstanding growth through continuous investment.

Exposing the global market to West Lothian is this year’s winner of the Best Business Award John Bean Technologies (JBT) a leading solutions provider to the food processing and air transportation industries.

The Developing Young Workforce West Lothian Regional Group presented local employer Best Western Hilcroft Hotel with the regional Employer Award as a great example of how a local employer and a local school can successfully work in partnership to benefit the future workforce.

Lareine Engineering in turn presented the Enterprising School Award to St Kentigern’s Academy who demonstrated a commitment to innovation, creativity, and enterprise in their curriculum.

Another West Lothian business excelling is Sibbald Training who were declared champions of sustainability at the VIBES Scottish Environmental Business Awards 2017. Sibbald were appointed as winners of the Transport category for their considerable efforts in reducing transportation related carbon emissions, the training provider has invested heavily in sustainable energy production and renewables which have contributed to considerable carbon reduction.

To support our enterprising businesses West Lothian Chamber aims to make 2018 a year of true value for our new and existing members. Throughout the Chamber’s time in operation, we have been lucky enough to have the support of great members. While

VIBES 2017 - Sibbald Limited

offering a range of traditional Chamber services that have helped maintain West Lothian’s business culture and growth, but we realise business needs are forever developing and no two businesses are the same. To continue being a trusted source of business support the Chamber, through partnership working is now growing to ensure we continue to offer true value.

Whilst maintaining the classic Chamber values, we will offer options on the type of membership to suit individual business needs within three membership options: n Classic (Traditional Chamber Services) n International (Focusing on international trade support) n Environmental (Focusing on environmental practices within business).

The creation of this new look Chamber will offer all businesses, from one-person startups to national companies the chance to share knowledge and experiences through a range of avenues and topics to truly offer businesses the chance to learn from one another, share best practice while promoting their own business journey success.

Moving forward the Chamber will continue to progress support as businesses develop to ensure West Lothian is recognised as the best place to do business.

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BUSINESS PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

Calmac sets up community board to capture local issues Ferry operator Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac) has taken an innovative approach to understanding the issues affecting the island and rural communities it supports on the West Coast of Scotland by setting up a Community Board made up from individuals from across its network to advise its main Board.

The Community Board has 12 members from almost every part of the CalMac network and is chaired by Lewis businessman and ex leader of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, Angus Campbell. They were recruited last Summer and met for the first time in November.

The Board, believed to be the first of its kind, is completely independent from CalMac, with the company’s only direct involvement being the provision of secretariat services through its new Community and Stakeholder Engagement Directorate.

The man tasked with setting it up, Brian Fulton, Director of Community and Stakeholder Engagement at CalMac said: “We have always placed a high priority on stakeholder engagement activities, however the scale of our network means this can be a challenge.

“Prior to submitting our bid for the Clyde and Hebrides Ferry Services contract we held 24 meetings across our area and the one thing which was raised by almost everyone was the desire to have their voice heard so we made the creation of a Community Board a key bid commitment in our bid.

He added: “It is very important that this is seen as completely independent and we believe the board will add tremendous value to our long term strategic decision-making process and we are looking forward to hearing their views on the role transport can play in helping develop our communities in the future.”

Board chair Angus Campbell said: “The first meeting was very positive with a lively discussion about the purpose of the board

Brian Fulton

and a universal commitment to make sure it was as effective as possible. Minutes will be published online once approved so the communities represented are kept fully up to date on the topics under discussion.

“The area covered by CalMac services has been split up and ascribed to different board members so everywhere is represented by at least one person. The terms of reference have been formally agreed and dates for

meetings in 2018, have also been confirmed.

Brian Fulton said: “We have always envisaged the Board operating entirely separately from CalMac and now the first meeting has taken place we will continue to provide support as required but will now step back and let it stand on its own two feet.”

Prior to submitting our bid for the Clyde and Hebrides Ferry Services contract we held 24 meetings across our area and the one thing which was raised by almost everyone was the desire to have their voice heard so we made the creation of a Community Board a key bid commitment in our bid.

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BMW Business Partnership

MONTHLY RENTALS FROM £299.

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(Plus £1,170 initial rental)*

For more information or to arrange a test drive†, call us now or visit www.douglasparkbmw.co.uk Similar offers available on Personal Contract Hire.

Hamilton Bothwell Road ML3 0AY 01698 303700

Glasgow Kyle Street G4 0HP 0141 333 0088

Stirling New Kerse Road FK7 7RZ 01786 474477

Official fuel economy figures for the BMW 520d M Sport Saloon: Urban 43.5 (6.5/100km). Extra Urban 62.8 (4.5/100km).

Combined 53.3 (5.3/100km). CO2 emissions 123g/km. Figures are obtained in a standardised test cycle. They are intended for comparisons between vehicles and may not be representative of what a user achieves under usual driving conditions.

Park’s of Hamilton (Holdings) Ltd is a credit broker. *Business users only. *Prices exclude VAT at 20%. Prices shown are for a 36-month Contract Hire agreement, with a contract mileage of 8,000 miles and an excess mileage charge of 11.73 pence per mile.

Applies to new vehicles ordered between 1 January 2018 and 31 March 2018 and registered by 30 June 2018 (subject to availability). At the end of your agreement you must return the vehicle and vehicle condition, excess mileage and other charges may be payable. Available subject to status to UK residents aged 18 or over. Guarantees and indemnities may be required. The amount of VAT you can reclaim depends on your business VAT status. Terms and conditions apply. Offer may be varied, withdrawn or extended at any time. Hire provided by BMW Group Corporate Finance. BMW Group Corporate Finance is a trading style of Alphabet (GB) Limited, Alphabet House, Summit Avenue, Farnborough, Hampshire GU14 0FB. We commonly introduce customers to BMW Group Corporate Finance. This introduction does not amount to independent financial advice. BMW (UK) Ltd, Summit ONE, Summit Avenue, Farnborough, Hampshire GU14 0FB. Registered in England and Wales 1378137. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority for credit broking activities. Douglas Park Ltd, trading as Douglas Park is an Appointed Representative of Park’s of Hamilton (Holdings) Limited, FRN 308476 of 14 Bothwell Road, Hamilton, ML3 0AY, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Park’s of Hamilton (Holdings) Limited permitted business is Insurance Mediation and to act as a Credit Broker. We can introduce you to a limited number of finance providers including BMW Financial Services to assist with your purchase, who may remunerate us for introducing you to them. †Test drive subject to applicant status and availability.

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Make it in Manhattan

Glasgow Chamber of Commerce (GCoC) has been establishing a number of strategic agreements with chambers in cities and regions around the world where there are opportunities for collaboration between member companies. This includes New York, Milan and Nuremberg with a number of others agreements in development.

In order to develop the practical business benefits from these strategic relationships, GCOC are organising a series of visits to enable businesses to investigate new markets and international business opportunities. GCOCs aim is to ensure that businesses in Scotland gain access to international markets and establish collaborative commercial relationships to support profitable business growth.

The chamber is recruiting growth-oriented ambitious businesses to participate in their second visit to New York in March 2018 in partnership with Manhattan Chamber of Commerce (MCoC). Glasgow and Manhattan Chambers of Commerce are committed to assisting with this process in a direct

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and results-focused way. The core feature of the Make it in Manhattan visit will be business to business meetings. These will be arranged through a business matching process conducted by Manhattan Chamber of Commerce (MCoC). The visit will also give participating businesses formal and informal opportunities to network and acquire valuable contacts.

Benefits of Make it in Manhattan Glasgow Chamber of Commerce & Manhattan Chamber of Commerce will be providing a business to business matching service between Scottish & Manhattan businesses. The business matching service will provide a minimum of 3 business to business meetings with interested parties

held in central Manhattan. Manhattan Chamber of Commerce will be hosting a ‘Doing Business in New York’ information session that will give the participating businesses key insight into the practice of Manhattan businesses.

If you are interested in Make it in Manhattan please contact Elaine Rogers, Head of International Trade Development: Elaine.

Rodger@glasgowchamberofcommerce.com

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MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Member Spotlight

Investment in people development at the core of Architects plans 2017 was a significant year for Ayr based LMA Architects after they posted excellent business results and picked up a string of business awards following a key change in their business strategy to increase investment in their people and restructure the business around them.

Practice Principal, Stephen McGhee, took sole ownership of the business in 2014 and made redefining their business strategies and changing the culture his no.1 priority.

Stephen advised “Our people strategy is simple, we believe our people are more important than our clients, if we look after them they in turn will look after our clients in the same way”.

The Practice set about defining their values and increased employee engagement and communication. Additional employee benefits were introduced which included increased holidays, pensions, staff events, health promotion, flexible working and a formal bonus scheme. Training was made a priority and the team at all levels are encouraged and supported to develop their skills and gain new ones. The Practice

started an apprenticeship programme and currently have two apprentices who were recruited directly from school.

The Practice introduced their ‘Giving Back’ initiative where the team are encouraged to volunteer and take an active role in their local community and in return, the Practice provides financial support for the organisation. The team also adopt and raise money for a different charity every year.

LMA Architects are seeing the benefits in their business results with increased profits, business growth and diversification of their client base by increasing their market share in existing and new sectors. All achieved whilst creating a fun, healthy and enjoyable place to work on the way.

In March they picked up the Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence

Award (Service Category). This was quickly followed by the Best Business Award (10-50) at the Chamber Business Awards in October where they were also pipped at the post in the Excellence in People Development category by Ayrshire College.

They finished the year on a high where their people development strategy was recognised with a 10th place world ranking in the Silver Employer of the Year (2-49) category at the Investors in People Awards in London.

Stephen stated “The changes in the business have been phenomenal and it’s great for me to see our staff develop and see the business flourish as a result. One of the biggest successes is seeing the team enjoying their work and having fun; that was one of my key objectives from the outset.”

Our people strategy is simple, we believe our people are more important than our clients, if we look after them they in turn will look after our clients in the same way.

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MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Auchrannie completes transfer of ownership to employees Luxury resort Auchrannie has announced it has completed its transition to become Scotland’s latest employeeowned business, with 160 members of staff becoming owners.

Located in Brodick on the Isle of Arran, Auchrannie is an award-winning resort comprising two 4-star hotels, thirty 5-star self-catering lodges, two leisure clubs, three individually branded restaurants, a children’s Playbarn, an ASPA spa and Arran Adventure outdoor company. It was established by Iain and Linda Johnston in 1988, with Linda heading up the company as managing director and board chair since 2010. Iain passed away in 2015. The resort has an annual turnover of £6.7million.

An Employee Ownership Trust has been formed and holds 100% of the shares on behalf of the employees. The deal was structured in order to make it affordable to the business without affecting its ability to reward the team and reinvest for the future.

It marks the first time a hotel or resort in Scotland has become employee-owned.

Commenting on the decision, co-founder and managing director Linda Johnston said: “We first started looking at employee ownership in 2015 and the first formal meetings were held in early 2016. Many exit options were considered over the years but none protected the ethos of the company, the existing team or the community use of Auchrannie’s facilities for future generations like employee ownership did.

“The team have been involved in the process from an early stage and were given the

opportunity to input throughout. They have very much embraced the concept of employee ownership and are extremely excited about it. They are delighted that Auchrannie’s legacy will be protected and that they have the chance to play an active part in, and benefit from, Auchrannie’s future success. They also realise that what each of them does will affect the future success of the business and that this is directly linked to their own success, so they have already become more engaged in making the business better and understand the power and influence each and every one of them now has on their own future. There is no, ‘them and us’ now, we’re all in this together.”

Linda Johnston and the rest of the Auchrannie management team will remain in place and the day to day operation of the business will not change.

Auchrannie’s transition to employee ownership was supported by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) and Co-operative Development Scotland (CDS), with the process managed by Co-ownership Solutions LLP and legal services by Burness Paull LLP. Linda continued: “The transition has been pretty smooth despite the fact that Auchrannie is a complex business; we have been well supported by HIE, CDS, Coownership Solutions and Burness Paull. The help we received was invaluable in enabling us to put together the team who lead us through the whole process seamlessly.

Although there have been a number of hurdles to jump over, there have been no real lows.”

By transferring their shares to an Employee Ownership Trust, the ex-shareholders have also protected Auchrannie’s contribution to the island. It is very much part of the community and provides essential wet

weather facilities, other amenities and support to the island’s residents and its visitors.

Sarah Deas, director at Co-operative Development Scotland, the arm of Scotland’s enterprise agencies which promotes employee ownership, said: “Being on an island, a change to the ownership of a resort like Auchrannie could seriously affect the economy of the whole island. The change to employee ownership means that the team at Auchrannie and the community of Arran can relax knowing that it will always remain an independent, locally run organisation with community values at heart.”

Jennifer Nicoll, HIE area manager for Argyll and the Islands, added: “Employee owned companies generally achieve good results and have a motivated, innovative, productive workforce with profits retained locally. The model also often appeals to potential future employees. It’s great to see Auchrannie complete the transition. The business is a big part of Arran’s tourism offering and the island’s future prosperity and community resilience. The move to employee ownership provides a sound basis for future growth.”

Linda concluded: “Employee ownership will give the whole Auchrannie team a stake in the continued growth of the business.

All of us will work together to build a more efficient, sustainable and profitable business. We are all excited to continue on our journey in which we strive to lead the way in Scottish tourism and create amazing experiences for our guests and an awesome place to work for our team.”

The latest figures show that there are 92 employee-owned companies operating in Scotland, with approximately 7,000 employee-owners generating a combined turnover of around £930million.

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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT - CETERIS

Award winning business property in Central Scotland Based centrally in Clackmannanshire, Ceteris has 13 business locations spread across Central Scotland offering over 260,000 sq ft of serviced offices, industrial units and workshops.

With over 150 tenant businesses (employing almost 1000 employees) choosing our property portfolio, we take seriously our responsibility as landlord to deliver the very best in customer service, to manage sustainable, environmentally friendly buildings and to offer additional services such as our free, informative and timely workshops and events.

Indeed, in 2017 both the Alloa Business Centre and Cooperage Way Business Village were awarded Gold Level accreditation from Keep Scotland Beautiful National Awards for Environmental Excellence whilst, in recognition of our commitment to the environment, we were finalists in The VIBES - Scottish Environment Business Awards.

Our programme of added-value tenant events have recently included Modern Apprenticeship & Recycling information sessions, Defibrillator Training and a workshop on how to Combat Cybercrime.

The location is stunning; strategically located in the middle of Scotland, Clackmannanshire

lies between the majestic Ochil Hills and the River Forth providing the perfect business base, less than 9 miles from Stirling and no more than a 40 minute drive from Glasgow and Edinburgh city centres.

historical buildings full of character. We can offer town centre locations, bustling business parks or beautiful, tranquil views across countryside and the aforementioned Ochil Hills.

Clackmannanshire has benefitted greatly from recent infrastructure improvements, a new train station and the Stirling & Clackmannanshire City Regional Deal promises transformational change for the area.

Clackmannanshire is growing, call us to find out how Ceteris property can benefit your business.

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Business Scotland

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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT - REGISTERS OF SCOTLAND

Moving forward with Since the Keeper of the Registers of Scotland (RoS) announced the official launch of ScotLIS, Scotland’s Land Information Service in late October 2017 our innovative new service has continued to grow and expand, with over 16,000 citizen users and almost 6000 business users already using the service.

New features and benefits

Bringing ScotLIS to our customers

ScotLIS delivers a number of benefits for our customers. We’ve already heard great things from our users about the fundamentals of ScotLIS, such as the ability to conduct searches using ScotLIS’s interactive map, being able to download entire search sheets, as well as moving seamlessly between sasine and land register records.

The release of ScotLIS in October didn’t spell the end of the job for our ScotLIS team.

On the contrary, they’ve been hard at work meeting with stakeholders to introduce more and more people to the benefits of ScotLIS, and show them how easy it is to get started.

These certainly aren’t the only benefits of ScotLIS – you can find out more on our website – and since launch we’ve introduced a number of new features based on customer feedback. Here are just a few of the improvements: n Land register can be searched by draft title number, to see all pending applications n Search sheet subject burdens details are now available n RoS counties layer added to map view n Sasine search sheet pages can be navigated by volume page (date or page number) – we’ve also included ‘next’ and ‘previous’ buttons n Paginated search sheets to allow quick navigation n Professional users can now search the Register of Inhibitions (ROI) with ScotLIS

Positive feedback The feedback we’ve received from customers on ScotLIS, both face-to-face and online, has been very positive – we’d like to extend a big thank you to everyone who has shared their thoughts.

One highlight since launch was some of the team attending an event in Liverpool hosted by our English counterpart HM Land Registry; they were impressed with the service, and could see the benefits it will bring to accessing land information in Scotland.

In late November, we also welcomed colleagues and stakeholders who were instrumental in the development of the service to a special thank you event at our Glasgow office, where these first-adopters gained an inside view of how the service has developed since launch. We also held interactive feedback sessions that gave stakeholders the chance to vote on what features they would like to see next, using ping pong balls to cast their ballot! Consultations like these are a unique opportunity for us to gain even more valuable feedback from positive and engaged customers.

What’s next?

In 2018 we will continue to work both internally and with our stakeholders to gather feedback and build on the service’s initial success. New developments will remain a regular feature, with shortcycle sprints continuing the process of improvement. This allows us to respond effectively to user needs and deliver valuable changes frequently. There is a

dedicated feature updates page on ScotLIS for business users, so you can keep eye out for the enhancements the team are making based on your feedback.

ScotLIS for the citizen is still in its early stages, and is being further developed along with the first wave of additional features planned for business users. Like the professional audience, customer feedback is critical, and our ScotLIS team is busy investigating and validating the citizen user journey.

Current improvements include exploring ways to make ScotLIS maps more dynamic and interactive, and options around how to provide access to online land register information for members of the public.

We’re also working with other public sector and government organisations to see how we might incorporate their datasets into ScotLIS, so that it offers a truly unique, useful and detailed view of land and property data in Scotland.

Whether you’re a property professional whose firm would benefit from the data access offered by ScotLIS, or an interested citizen looking to find out more, you can get started by visiting the ScotLIS website at scotlis.ros.gov.uk.

If you’re a business user looking for more information, you can also contact ruth.baxter@ros.gov.uk

Speaking as a professional GIS user I found the system intuitive and easy to use. It allows me to get to a relevant title in a matter of minutes and extract the data to use.

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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Team North Ayrshire leading the way in business support If you’re looking to start-up, grow or locate your business to North Ayrshire or would like further information on our approach email succeed@north-ayrshire.gov.uk or contact 01294 449944.

Business Scotland

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AST RISK CONSULTANCY

2018 – a year of opportunity but even greater security challenges lie ahead Scottish business AST Risk Consultancy & Training Services Ltd is predicting that 2018 will present businesses with a greater range and complexity of security challenges as technological development gathers pace.

Company founder Alan Stenhouse, who has spent his career advising businesses of all sizes on security, believes the pace of change must be accompanied by an increased understanding of how to tackle the potential risks that new and emerging technology brings.

really stand out from the pack.

Alan said: “The pace of innovation and technological capability will undoubtedly continue, if not increase, in 2018.

“However, they must be confident that suppliers have established strong security protocols to stave off the cyber threat.

“Businesses will continue to transform the way they work, adopting greater digital focus and becoming more agile to exploit back office optimisation through automation.

“Organisations will also continue to explore usage of the Internet of Things to gain competitive advantage.

“Clearly, there is a strategic threat from disruptive technology. However, this also brings significant opportunities in which to develop services or consumer products that

“With increasing dependency on customer information, intellectual property or HR records being held in digital format, businesses will also look to greater use of Cloud Services or outsourcing for data processing, storage or back-up facilities.

“Businesses will require assurance that their data is safe and secure from attack so their focus on Supply Chain or Vendor Risk Management has to increase.

“This is essential as we approach the GDPR live date on May 25th where more punitive fines will be levied for data breaches where organisations are found to be negligent in approach.

“Let’s also be clear, the cyber threat is not going to go away anytime soon and will

continue to become more sophisticated and disruptive in 2018.

“As technology advances, it is critical that the risks associated with these new capabilities are fully understood and managed. If not, we are merely opening new avenues in which attacks can be perpetrated.

“All in all, we should not be fearful as we head into 2018, albeit I fully expect that manifesting a cyber awareness culture through staff behaviour must be a key focus for organisational training and awareness programmes if we are serious about effectively managing the threats that lie ahead.”

Alan advises businesses of all sizes on information and cyber security. AST Risk Consultancy & Training Services can be contacted at Web: www.astriskconsultancy.com E mail: as@astriskconsultancy.com Tel: 07969 050393

Businesses will require assurance that their data is safe and secure from attack so their focus on Supply Chain or Vendor Risk Management has to increase.

Business Scotland

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BUSINESS PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

Industrial technology, time to act Recently, there’s been a lot of commentary on how new and developing technologies are going to dramatically change the industrial sector and what this means for the future of industrial engineering, manufacturing and other industrial processes.

There’s a plethora of jargon out there and you don’t have to look too hard to find a mountain of perceived complexity, that can leave even the most initiated wondering where to start and how to apply some of these new systems and capabilities into everyday operations. Despite the focus on the new and the developing, traditional businesses still have a crucial role to play.

Ignorance is not an excuse. The advent of the next industrial revolution is something we all must embrace in order to stay ahead of a game that is increasingly being played on a global field, by continuing to innovate.

At Clyde Blowers Capital, applying these new tools across our existing portfolio’s operations is exactly what we are doing.

Product, service and process innovation is in our DNA and we have always invested with the aim to achieving and sustaining competitive advantage across our global platforms. The difference today is the pace at which technologies are changing the way we think about how we do things.

Before we take a look at some of these specific innovations, let’s try to cut through some of the noise and understand what all the excitement is about. Surely the fourth industrial revolution should be introduced with a bigger fanfare and more clarity, so that everybody has the chance to recognise what is going on and grasp it? Unfortunately, it’s not quite as straightforward as that, as the concept of “cyber physical systems”, the integration of computing power, networking and physical processes, is far from easy to grasp on a day to day, operating level.

However, adoption and implementation has already started – and you need to move quickly as the competition is already doing so. It’s vital to begin to understand how the concept of cyber physical systems breaks down into a wide range of new tools and innovations that will come together to revolutionise how we carry out industrial processes in the future.

Drivers of the next industrial revolution revolve around connectivity, automation and

the concept of “big data.” The connection and integration of machinery and processes across the whole value chain of any particular industrial process is being aided by the development of industrial software, the use of which has moved from controlling machines into all forms of design, analysis and simulation, allowing us to apply artificial intelligence capability across any particular process. Application of these new software tools produces vast quantities of performance data that needs to be managed and understood, driving the need for new data science and data analysis tools. Cloud computing is making the ability to handle such quantities much easier today, whereas sensor and control technology is rapidly developing in order to accurately capture performance data and relay it back for analysis and interpretation, improving operational efficiency.

Furthermore, new manufacturing processes are constantly being developed that reduce operating costs and crucially, increase the speed to market. Developments in additive manufacturing and materials science can significantly reduce production lead times and the invasion of robots continues to gather pace, particularly as “user friendly” collaborative robots can now efficiently work alongside human employees in a safe and protected environment.

Across the CBC portfolio, we have been embracing the industrial technology revolution and utilising some of these new tools to differentiate our businesses and to

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BUSINESS PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

help serve our customers’ requirements.

At Moventas, a global leader in wind gearbox technology, we’ve been developing technology that radically enhances the wind gearbox power to weight ratio, allowing our customers (wind turbine manufacturers) to optimise their own product designs, save costs and improve operating efficiency at the same time. Moventas are pioneers in remote

It’s vital to begin to understand how the concept of cyber physical systems breaks down into a wide range of new tools and innovations that will come together to revolutionise how we carry out industrial processes in the future.

condition monitoring technology, utilising sensor technologies and advanced software tools to remotely monitor in field gearbox performance, identifying potential operating issues well in advance of a potential failure, saving our customers significant amount of costs that would otherwise be incurred for routine maintenance or avoiding lost revenue and major expenditure in the case of wind turbine failure.

Our leader in precision motion control technology, Cone Drive, has developed unique operating software to run its machine tools and manufacturing operations, allowing the business to produce bespoke configured products in industry-leading lead times as low as 2-3 days, without the need to hold finished goods inventory. The engineers at Cone Drive have also developed a range of exciting product development software and combined with digital cloning of our manufacturing processes this permits real time design and manufacturing simulation, significantly reducing the time it takes to bring new products to market. These tools have helped Cone Drive to develop ultrahigh precision critical components, our new harmonic solutions range, that have been launched into the robotics and automation markets across the globe.

experienced engineering resources from remote locations in real time, reducing the cost to our customers and allowing faster production of reports and implementation of services. Embracing drone technology for remote and inaccesible locations similarly helps reduce our customers’ operating costs, as what might have taken days in the past can now be achieved in a matter of hours. It’s not just financial benefits either; the new technologies can also significantly help to reduce risks to personnel health and safety.

Embracing the emerging technologies driving the fourth industrial revolution is vital in order to achieve and sustain competitive advantage in a world that is ironically becoming smaller due to the technologies now open to us all. Competitors across the world now have the tools and capabilities to access our markets. But we have the same access, and must respond by applying the new tools available to us to continue to innovate, enhance our product capabilities and service offerings, and, vitally, stay one step ahead of the game. Undoubtedly, the next few years are set to be an exciting time for the industrial sector.

Allrig, our global oilfield services business, has been using new technologies to enhance their customer service offering whilst at the same time reducing operating costs for our customers. Innovations like smart glass technology allow them to remotely access

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CHAMBER SPOTLIGHT

Caithness Chamber to host only EDIC in Scotland Caithness Chamber of Commerce is starting off 2018 with a bang as it launches its brand new contract to host Scotland’s only Europe Direct Information Centre (EDIC). The aim of this Centre is to provide information to businesses and the general public about EU matters and to enable them to make their voices heard on any areas of EU activity that are of concern to them.

The Chamber team is already hard at work preparing for a range of events throughout 2018, with plans afoot to have a presence at a variety of County Shows throughout the region, as well as a special event being planned in conjunction with North Highland College UHI to take place on Europe Day (9 May 2018).

Starting from 1 January 2018, any members of the public in the North Highlands and Northern Isles who want to find out more about EU rights, funding, living, working, studying in EU countries, and much more, will be able to get easy access to the information they need.

As well as having a walk-in centre at the Chamber’s offices in Thurso, the EDIC will also have a dedicated phone number, email address and social media presence, and the team will also be doing information events throughout the year.

Trudy Morris, Chief Executive of Caithness Chamber of Commerce, said: “The bidding process for this contract was highly competitive, and we were one of just 12 successful bids out of a total of 35 from organisations across the UK, so this is a real coup for the North Highlands, being the only one awarded in Scotland.

“The new contract for EDICs runs from 2018 – 2020, but with the date of Brexit set as 29 March 2019, the contract is likely not to run beyond this. Therefore for this period, we will be hosting the only and in fact, the last EDIC in Scotland, so a historic first.

around Brexit and the EU, which makes us well-placed to ensure that businesses and individuals in the North Highlands and Islands have access to factual, unbiased information.

“The Brexit process has already brought up a number of complex issues which remain under discussion, and it is important that local citizens, businesses and organisations are able to have their key questions answered as soon as the information becomes available.

“We are excited to take on this new challenge, and we look forward to working hard over the coming year to ensure that everyone in the North Highlands and Northern Isles has the information they need to make informed decisions about Europe.”

“As with our colleagues throughout the Scottish Chambers network, the Chamber remains neutral on the ongoing debates

The new contract for EDICs runs from 2018 – 2020, but with the date of Brexit set as 29 March 2019, the contract is likely not to run beyond this. Therefore for this period, we will be hosting the only and in fact, the last EDIC in Scotland, so a historic first.

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CHAMBER SPOTLIGHT

Chambers pledge a UK first Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce has become the first Chamber in the UK to sign the Armed Forces Covenant along with all members of its board and their associated companies.

In doing so the Chamber and board members have made a commitment to support the country’s servicemen and servicewomen to ensure no member of the Armed Forces should suffer any disadvantage as a result of their service.

Dunbartonshire Chamber has been working closely with the Highland Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association over a number of years hosting a series of awareness events and engaging with local businesses to promote the transferable skills and experience that the armed forces have to offer.

Chamber Chief Executive Damon Scott said: “We are proud to be the first Chamber and board in the UK to sign the Armed Forces Covenant.

“The wide variety of skills members of the Armed Forces community bring to a workforce makes them an invaluable asset.

By partnering with Defence we are aiming to raise awareness of their value to the business community.”

In addition each of the board members’ companies have committed to their own individual pledges.

The signing by Chief Executive, Damon Scott, and board members Stewart Rennie (Rennie McInnes LLP); Russell Sim (Sim Property Management Ltd); Nick Allan (Nick Allan and Associates Ltd); Erik Archer (Archer Associates); and Philip Briscoe (European Circuits Ltd) - took place at The Dunbartonshire Chamber’s offices in Clydebank. The documents were co-signed on behalf of the Ministry of Defence (MoD) by Lieutenant Colonel Mattachew Sheldrick, the Commanding Officer of 7 SCOTS.

The Covenant signing was organised by Highland Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association.

Damon added: “In recognising the value serving personnel, both Regular and Reservists, Veterans and military families contribute to business and the country, the Chamber has pledged to: Promote the fact it is an Armed Forces-friendly organisation, to seek to support the employment of veterans, to strive to support the employment of Service spouses and partners, to seek to support employees who choose to be members of the Reserve Forces, to endeavour to offer a degree of flexibility in granting deployment leave for Service spouses, to offer support to local cadet units and to actively participate in Armed Forces Day.”

Their Regional Employer Engagement Director Ron Macgregor said: “We are delighted the Dunbartonshire Chamber and board has signed the Covenant.

Their involvement will help raise the profile of Regular and Reserve forces across the country, and we very much look forward to working together with them in support of the Armed Forces community.”

If you would like to join Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce or would like to find out more about the benefits of chamber membership call +44 (0)141 280 0272, email hello@ dunbartonshirechamber.co.uk or visit the website at www.dunbartonshirechamber. co.uk

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GDPR

What is GDPR? under the GDPR and the guidance issued by the EU Working Party, consent must be “clear”, “unbundled” (not part of a contract) and “freely given” (may be refused).

Melanie Schwindt Senior Associate, Morton Fraser LLP

The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) applies to personal data processed by data controllers (organisations) including personal data about an organisation’s employees. HR teams will need to be aware of and prepare for the upcoming changes.

Under the GDPR, employees will have the right to be informed about the processing of their personal data. Articles 13 and 14 of the GDPR specify what information must be given to data subjects (individuals) about their personal data. One crucial piece of information is confirmation of which of six possible lawful bases of processing that organisation is relying upon in order to process data.

“Consent of the data subject” is just one possible basis of processing. Other bases relevant to employment include “necessary in the performance of a contract relating to the data subject” and “legitimate interests” of the organisation. Where the processing

of sensitive personal data (or “special categories” under the GDPR) is required, additional conditions apply. These lawful bases are nearly identical to the conditions of processing under the Data Protection Act 1998.

Currently, organisations seem to rely heavily on consent in an employment context.

It is not unusual to find a clause stating “you hereby consent to the processing of your personal data” in the middle of an employment contract, but this would not constitute valid consent under the GDPR. Any processing that relies on such a clause will be unlawful after May 2018 because

Organisations should analyse the purposes for which they process employee data and consider the lawful basis on which such processing occurs. Each processing purpose can only have one lawful basis, although the same data may be processed for more than one purpose where this has been appropriately communicated to the employees. In most circumstances, consent cannot be the applicable lawful basis of processing employees’ data, especially where the processing would take place regardless of whether consent has been withdrawn or refused.

Following such analysis, organisations will need to review, and most likely amend, their existing and future employment contracts, as well as their privacy policies for employees.

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FULL DAY WORKSHOPS

A four day endorsed course on the practical application of GDPR. Ideal for those who will be fulfilling the role of the Data Protection Officer under GDPR.

We provide one day workshops on all aspects of the GDPR including Subject Access under GDPR, Data Protection Impact Assessments and the Data Protection Bill.

GDPR WEBINARS

IN HOUSE TRAINING

Live and interactive webinars for those who don’t have the budget or time to attend our full day workshops. Recordings also available making this an extremely flexible option.

All our courses can be delivered at your premises and customised to the specific needs of your staff. Please get in touch for a no obligation quote.

GDPR HEALTH CHECK We can help your organisation assess its current level of compliance with the requirements of the GDPR and map out a bespoke action plan for your needs.

www.actnow.org.uk | info@actnow.org.uk | 01924 451054

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GDPR - CLARK IT

GDPR – The Truth behind the Myths Sean Gordon

01888 511 441 cybersecurity@clark-it.com www.clark-it.com

GDPR is everywhere at the moment. Almost daily, you’ll read something new about this law. It’s fair to say that many companies are concerned about it. Some of the fear is rooted in scaremongering because of misconceptions or in a bid for companies, claiming to be experts in the new law, to sell ‘off the shelf’ GDPR solutions. But is all the information that we receive true or false? Within this article we debunk a few of the myths that you may have come across recently.

GDPR is all about Fines.

We’ll start off by explaining the purpose of these fines. Yes, it is true that they are substantial. Constant news headlines explain that 4% of Annual Global Turnover, or €20 Million (whichever is greater) are the maximum that can be enforced, and to most companies, that is worrying. However, the ICO have explained on several occasions that this is not a ‘go to response’ in the event a breach occurs. These fines are considered as a last resort. You’ll know that you can never be 100% secure when a computer is involved. This is true, and to simply issue a fine without any understanding of the situation would be unreasonable. In the event a data breach occurs, and you have followed the correct steps outlined by the ICO, an investigation will be carried out. If you can demonstrate that you have done everything possible to ensure security of the data you hold, it is very unlikely you will receive a fine. However, if you fail to report the breach, or have unsatisfactory security measures in place, or simply show a lack of care with the data, the ICO will look differently upon this situation.

GDPR is like Y2K The ICO have covered this myth, and we would like to reiterate the importance of it.

Companies are preparing for the deadline of the law – 25 May 2018. GDPR is enforceable from this date. In 1999, people were planning for the Y2K deadline, with computers to

crash and planes to fall from the sky. There is no need for that level of fear with the new law. Preparation for GDPR does not end on the 25th May 2018, it requires an ongoing effort to continually comply. Like all other laws that we abide by, this is no different. To continually comply with this law, you will be expected to identify and address emerging privacy and security risks in the weeks, months and years beyond May 2018.

GDPR is all about security.

Over the past few months, we’ve discovered that a number of people believe that if their company has a robust IT security system in place, they won’t have to worry about the new law, as their personal data is protected.

Firstly, we can categorically tell you that this is not the case. The new law concentrates on how personal data is processed, handled, and discarded. It is not solely focused on keeping it secure. GDPR also covers data that is kept in hard copy, which does make an IT security system obsolete in that regard.

The GDPR law requires that technical measures should be in place. These are very well covered by the UK Governments Cyber Essentials Scheme. There are also Legal, Training, HR and QHSE considerations to be made.

As one of few Scotland based Certifying Bodies of the Cyber Essentials Scheme, Clark IT can help you take the steps to comply with the new law and increase the security level of your organisation.

Clark IT are part of a group of likeminded companies who can help provide professional advice on these specific compliance requirements.

GAP Analysis Clark IT have successfully carried out several GAP Analysis’ which allow us to map a pathway for an organisation’s GDPR compliance. This is a low cost, low risk method of understanding what is needed to comply.

That being said, Deputy First Minister John Swinney has stated that all Public Bodies in Scotland must obtain a ‘Cyber Essentials’ Certificate as a minimum. The Information Commissioner has also noted publicly that achieving Cyber Essentials accreditation can assist with preparing for GDPR.

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GDPR

The nature of online trading The nature of online trading creates considerable virus, spyware and hacker risk exposures, including theft of customer banking information, privacy liability following a breach of personal identity data, and e-business interruption. policies bought reflect the cover required. An experienced insurance broker will be able to review your risks and provide professional advice on the best cover for your business.

These risks may not be adequately covered by traditional standard policy forms. Modern businesses, of all sizes, are vulnerable to this type of attack from a local B&B with an online booking system to large online retail businesses.

Cyber liability is a hot topic, with insurers and brokers alike looking at this new and emerging risk. A report published by the UK government and a global insurance broker, warned of knowledge gaps among business that is holding the UK cyber insurance market back. The government has worked with the Information Assurance for Small and Medium Enterprises (IASME) consortium and the Information Security Forum (ISF) to develop Cyber Essentials, a set of basic technical controls for organisations to use. It offers a certification process for businesses to show they have taken the necessary steps to prevent cyber-attacks. Insurance firms and brokers have backed the scheme.

Michael Hashim Cert CII - Account Executive Email: Michael.hashim@bluefingroup.co.uk Mobile: 07469 350 261 Bluefin, Leven House, 10 Lochside Place, Edinburgh Park, Edinburgh EH12 9DF t: 0131 255 0312 f: 0131 255 0301 e: michael.hashim@bluefingroup.co.uk www.bluefingroup.co.uk Sensational news stories help promote the need for cover, but buyers, as always, need to be aware. Many policies that are emerging are very specific in what they cover and what they don’t cover. It is imperative that those buying this insurance think long and hard about the risks they run, and ensure that any

Scottish tech companies partner up to offer GDPR solution Many organisations are scrambling to get ready for compliance with GDPR regulations coming into force May 2018. Paisley-based online training provider, Bolt Learning, has partnered Edinburgh-based GDPR consultancy Mercurytide, to provide the ultimate GDPR consultancy and training solution for Scottish companies.

“Most IT teams will be aware of the impending changes to data protection, but many organisations are not aware that it is the employer’s responsibility to ensure all members of staff understand the legislation, and comply with mandatory training requirements” explains Katie Jenkins, Head of Customer Proposition at Bolt Learning.

Bolt Learning and Mercurytide have launched two interactive, online training modules, to provide all employees, regardless of their level of involvement with GDPR, with critical training.

“The bite-size modules are easily distributed via email and completed online, on any device, meaning staff can do them at a time and place convenient to them. On completion, the organisation also has

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documentation to demonstrate one of the GDPR compliance obligations” comments Jenkins.

The modules have already proven popular; “Bolt’s training on GDPR was not only clear and concise but also stimulating and interesting. We’re now in a much better place to deal with the changes coming into force in May” comments Jane Wylie-Roberts, MD, Glasgow-based Stafffinders Remember! If found to be in breach of the new regulations, a business can be fined up to €20million. It is essential that your staff are aware and educated appropriately.

Try Bolt’s online course demo at www.boltlearning.com/GDPR or email info@boltlearning.com to find out more.

IT GOVERNANCE

IT Governance opens Edinburghbased office to support Scottish businesses with GDPR compliance The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) comes into force on 25 May 2018, placing greater accountability on businesses processing the data of EU residents It supersedes the UK Data Protection Act 1998 and marks a wide-reaching and significant shift in the way that organisations must protect personal data. It grants data subjects several new rights, including the right to judicial remedy against businesses that have infringed their rights. The new Regulation requires organisations to adopt appropriate measures to the risk and implement “technical and organisational measures” to protect personal data.

Compliance is not a choice and time is short GDPR compliance is not just a matter of ticking a few boxes: the Regulation demands that you demonstrate compliance with the data protection principles. This involves taking a risk-based approach to data protection; having appropriate policies and procedures in place to deal with requirements for transparency, accountability and individuals’ rights; and building a workplace culture of data privacy and security. With the appropriate compliance framework in place, not only will you be able to avoid significant fines and reputational damage, you will also be able to show customers that you are trustworthy and responsible.

Train your in-house resources with Edinburgh-based certified GDPR classroom training To prepare for the GDPR, it is essential that staff tasked with the compliance project are trained on the Regulation. IT Governance’s ISO 17024-accredited GDPR Foundation and Practitioner training courses offer a structured learning path to equip practitioners, managers and those involved in the compliance project with the specialist knowledge and skills needed to deliver GDPR compliance.

Delegates who attend the one-day EU GDPR Foundation course will gain a comprehensive introduction to the GDPR, and a practical

understanding of the implications and legal requirements for organisations.

The four-day Certified EU GDPR Practitioner course builds on the GDPR Foundation qualification to equip participants with the knowledge and operational skills to build, implement and manage a compliance programme under the GDPR. The courseware includes a data protection impact assessment (DPIA) tool to help assess and address privacy risks, and a GDPR compliance gap assessment tool to help prepare a compliance plan.

To date, IT Governance has trained more than 2,500 professionals on the GDPR, and offers GDPR training dates and locations across UK and Europe, as well as in-house.

(See table, right, for dates this year.)

IT Governance is a leading global provider of IT governance, risk management and compliance solutions, with a special focus on cyber resilience, data protection, the PCI DSS, ISO 27001 and cyber security. Following the announcement of Scotland’s Cyber Resilience Strategy for the public sector, IT Governance will open an office in Scotland in early 2018. This will be our third office, with offices in Drogheda, Ireland, and the head office in Ely, Cambridgeshire. As we have a strong background in cyber security, we

are well positioned to aid the Scottish public sector with the changes required to comply with upcoming cyber security measures and to address the challenges of GDPR compliance

2018 Scotland training schedule All courses are in Edinburgh EU GDPR Foundation EU GDPR Practitioner EU GDPR Foundation EU GDPR Practitioner EU GDPR Foundation EU GDPR Practitioner EU GDPR Foundation EU GDPR Practitioner

March 19 March 20-23 April 23 April 24-26 May 21 May 22-25 June 18 June 19-22

www.itgovernance.co.uk

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BUSINESS PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

Ideas have the possibility to create change And this is the very reason people come together to attend events Malcolm Roughhead OBE Chief Executive, Visit Scotland

Whether a congress for 5000, a meeting for 500 or an incentive for 50, these delegates come together to create new connections, establish new networks and to work together to form new ideas, which forms the very basis of VisitScotland’s new social media campaign, ‘Legends’, specifically for the Business Events market.

Scotland is fortunate to have a blossoming business events market. Edinburgh is ranked 27th out of 392 in the world for the number of meetings it held according to the latest International Congress and Convention Association statistics. Glasgow is home to Scotland’s and one of the UK’s largest conference centres while Aberdeen has embarked on a £333 million investment to create a new, state of the art International Conference Centre.

Many of the international conferences and conventions we want to attract to

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Scotland specialise in various sectors, from Technology to Life Sciences and Energy to Health Care. Before we can even begin to talk about how easy it is to get to Scotland through our international air connections, or the variety of internationally acclaimed hotels and venues they can choose from, we must first and foremost show Scotland’s credentials in these Sectors. Legends is elevating this message far and wide through a targeted social media campaign that has full collaboration from all of Scotland’s cities and regions and is believed to be an industry first for the MICE (meetings, incentives, conference & exhibitions) sector.

A task to come up with a strapline to market Scotland to the business events world, ‘Scotland, where ideas become legend’ has become a two-year social media campaign that will highlight 12 of the world’s most important sectors through country-wide collaboration.

Engagement with Scotland-based academics, universities, industries and research centres has led to the creation of blogs, videos and case studies to showcase those at the forefront of world changing

innovation in Scotland. Our cities and regions will have a voice for each sector to highlight the ingenuity taking place across the country and unite with us on #ideasbecomelegend.

During the first phase of the campaign, launched towards the end of last year, VisitScotland worked with renowned organisations such as Technology Scotland, ScotlandIS, pureLIFI, the Scottish Association for Marine Science and The Data Lab to show an impressive cross-section of what is happening in Scotland today and into the future.

As we move forward with this exciting campaign – giving each sector, city and region a chance to showcase their experience and innovation with the world.

Go to scotland.org and join in with the conversation online using #ideasbecomelegend

BUSINESS PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

Building the best railway Scotland’s ever had

Work is taking place across the country to prepare Scotland’s railway for the arrival of two brand-new train fleets – Virgin East Coast’s Azuma trains and ScotRail’s class-385s.

Over Christmas and New Year 2017, 4,000 railway engineers worked around-the-clock to complete £15m of work on Scotland’s railway – much of it to support the new fleets.

These trains will help to transform travel on both the East Coast main line to London and on the main line between Scotland’s two biggest cities.

Increasing on-train passenger capacity and reducing journey times, the new fleets will cut around 10 minutes from the journey time between Edinburgh and Glasgow, via Falkirk High, and around 20 minutes between the two capitals.

At Edinburgh Waverley, the country’s second-busiest station behind Glasgow Central, Network Rail engineers have been working to extend platforms 5 and 6, to the east of the station, and 12, to the west.

The extensions to platforms 5 and 6, due for

to transform Glasgow Queen Street station, with main structural demolition work now under way.

Over the coming months engineers will break up the existing 1970s buildings in front of the Victorian station to make way for a new frontage, concourse and entrances.

When complete in 2020, the redeveloped Queen Street will offer passengers an expanded concourse with increased capacity and circulation space, and improved customer facilities in a contemporary and distinctive building. completion this year, will accommodate the new 10-car Azuma services on East Coast routes, while the extension of platform 12, completed in December 2017, will allow new eight-car class-385 services to use the platform.

In addition to the platform works, on New Year’s Day 2017, engineers installed a new track ‘crossover’ layout between platforms 10 and 11 at Waverley to increase flexibility through the station by allowing trains to move between the two lines.

ScotRail Alliance managing director Alex Hynes said: “We are building the best railway Scotland has ever had and delivering the largest programme of investment since the Victorian era.

“The work we are undertaking at these major stations will pave the way for the introduction of two new, state-of-theart train fleets and transform travel for the railway’s customers – offering faster journeys on longer, more modern trains with more seats.”

And in Aberdeen, after the last train ran on Christmas Eve, engineers began work on a £1m project to upgrade platforms at the station ahead of the arrival of the Azumas.

In the West of the country, work continues

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MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Major £30m investment sees George Leslie Ltd deliver lifeline Brodick Ferry Terminal

Member Spotlight

After

A major £30m of investment on a flagship project involving the construction of a new Ferry Terminal facility for the busy port of Brodick on the Isle of Arran has been undertaken by Civil Engineering & Building Contractor George Leslie Ltd (GL). The new Ferry Terminal will provide lifeline ferry services to mainland Scotland create 21st-century facilities for the next 60 years and secure a safe, efficient and reliable ferry terminal and service.

The works comprised three main elements; a berthing structure complete with link-span to accommodate a new 100m long vessel, a 2-storey terminal building creating a real sense of arrival and departure and land-side marshalling areas constructed on reclaimed land.

The award of this flagship contract, representing a 30% step increase in turnover, whilst challenging, it also provided the opportunity for major investment in plant, equipment, offices and yard and the upskilling of the existing workforce and staff with selective recruitment to assist with delivery of this increased turnover.

The Brodick project included the requirement to undertake construction works with no detrimental effect on live port operations, realising value engineering opportunities, and engaging with the local

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Before

island community to provide a positive experience.

reinstate this area which had suffered severe erosion.

GL delivered on these requirements by making a positive impact in the communities where they work, with local contractors and suppliers providing over £3m of services to the project. A further £9m of services were provided by Scottish companies with two major elements – the linkspan and fixed access walkway - provided by European Companies, McGregor’s from Sweden and Adelte from Spain respectfully.

Work will be undertaken by GL throughout Scotland, including remote areas of the Highlands & Islands. From the successful delivery of the Brodick Ferry Terminal, GL have won and completed the new berthing facility at McInroy’s point in Gourock for Western Ferries and will shortly commence on the £5M Marine Package at the new Queens Quay Development in Clydebank to upgrade the existing Queens Quay Basin, formerly John Brown Shipyard’s famous for building the Queen Mary, the Queen Elisabeth and The QE2.

GL also participated in a series of community benefits throughout the project including significant local employment, vocational training, delivering the ICE Bridges to Schools event and supporting local charities.

The most tangible of benefits was said to be the provision and transportation of 10,000t of dredge material to Brodick Beach to

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Shirley Dickson - Care Director, left, and Jennifer Woods - Operations Director

Tailor Maid Home Care – delivering first-class care in East Renfrewshire and Glasgow Established in 2010, Tailor Maid Home Care is a family led business which prides itself on delivering first-class care at Home in East Renfrewshire and Glasgow. Sisters, Shirley Dickson who is a registered nurse with 25 years experience in Intensive Care in Glasgow Hospitals and Jennifer Woods an Accountancy Graduate with many years experience in Finance and Audit felt there was a niche in the market to deliver excellent care having experienced care for their own relatives.

Care packages are tailored to individuals needs and personalised to provide a high quality and trusted service. Regulated by the Care Inspectorate, Tailor Maid’s dedication has been awarded with an “Excellent “grading for its care and support over the past few years with glowing feedback from their clients. Directors Shirley Dickson and Jennifer Woods credit the hard work to their dedicated team of staff whom they personally recruit. The sisters operate a Mum’s test rule- they only recruit staff that they feel would be good enough to look after their own elderly parents.

Providing ongoing support and training for all staff is crucial to their success. Dementia and Alzheimer’s are a focus for their training and staff are trained through the University of Stirling’s “Best Practice in Dementia” course which has been very successful in

raising their awareness to support all clients who live with dementia. The sisters are rightly proud that their company is the only Home Care Provider in East Renfrewshire who utilises this resource- it’s very reassuring for their clients too.

Tailor Maid success has been recognised in the last four years by East Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce Annual Awards.

They have won Most Promising New Business in 2013, Family Business of the Year in 2014 and 2017 and Outstanding Performing Business in 2015. In 2017 they were also a Finalist for the Scottish Care Home Care Provider for the year and the ladies celebrated with their staff at the glitzy awards ceremony in June 2017. Service users, staff and Management team filmed for the awards to demonstrate what good care is.

The sisters’ families are all very involved in the business so winning Awards for Family Business was very rewarding.

Shirley’s daughter has commenced a career in Nursing and both have sons studying business degrees in Glasgow and so hope that future generations will continue the Tailor Maid business. Shirley’s husband created a bespoke Tailor Maid database which produces all their rotas delivering 750 hours of care per week and produces all payroll and invoicing too.

The business has grown steadily over the past 7 years since operating from Jennifer’s home to now having a workforce of 35 employed locally to deliver their packages of care. Their turnover has increased to a healthy £650k pa. The Directors have never lost their personal touch which is crucial to their success- they still personally meet all their clients so that they ensure expansion does not jeopardise their personal service.

The sisters treasure the advice, support and mentoring from the Business Enterprise Mentoring scheme over the years, which supported launching them on their route to expansion. Commenting on recent successes said: “It’s about bringing compassion and care together under one roof and our grades and awards show that we are achieving that”.

One of latest client testimonies noted, “I always felt everyone at TMHC really cared about the services they provided and took great pride in making sure my mum’s needs were met which was such a refreshing experience having used other Home Care providers in the past.”

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SCOTTISH ENTERPRISE

Exporting is easier with an expert at your side If your business is preparing to take the first steps to export products or services it could be the right moment to tap into expert advice.

Stephanie Rennie Export Adviser at Scottish Enterprise

Meet Stephanie Rennie, one of 13 export advisers at Scottish Enterprise. In a typical week Stephanie will meet with a wide range of different companies, providing the detailed knowledge and expertise they need to grow their business by going global.

Stephanie’s business background means that she is well placed to help. “My roles in large corporates have always crossed international borders. I spent 12 years with GE Capital, latterly as European Corporate Communications Director. Working in a large organisation I was aware of the different skills, roles and departments that would all contribute to international business success.

Now I use this understanding to help companies create thought-out export plans; plans that will lead to real growth.”

Since joining the team of expert advisers at Scottish Enterprise two years ago Stephanie has been dealing with the questions that first or second-time exporters ask, providing support and connecting businesses with the right skills and services. “Every company is unique but even so there are issues that crop up again and again. We can work with companies as they start exporting, helping them identify gaps in their knowledge and enabling them to make strong decisions so that their businesses benefit from the new markets.

Preparation, preparation, preparation!

So, what are the keys to export success?

Stephanie is quick to focus on the

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importance of good planning and the need to develop clear strategy. “Preparation really is everything. Sometimes companies flounder because they start to sell in a market that they don’t really understand. Perhaps they haven’t taken time to calculate the real costs of exporting or the regulations associated with a particular country. Sometime they just rush in a little bit too quickly. We can support a company in the early stages to help them avoid the pitfalls. We can help with the detail as well as the big picture to ensure that the time and effort that a company invests results in real business success.

“In my experience the companies that succeed with exporting are the ones that are the most strategic.”

What’s your motivation?

Part of the planning process is to understand the reasons why a company wants to export.

It could be that the UK market is saturated or that foreign markets offer new opportunities to grow. Understanding the motivation will influence the plan and approach. Stephanie comments, “I encourage people to attend the workshops we run on preparing for export.

This is a great way to engage with some of the key questions and begin to develop an export plan. Then, I can meet up with the company one-to-one, providing the ongoing support and professional advice to develop the plan into meaningful export activity.”

Assessing the markets Market research will usually be a vital element in shaping a company’s export plan.

Stephanie comments, “We can connect companies to our free International Market Research Service, a desk based research service that provides information on global market trends, customer behaviour and competitor insights.

Making the connections Then, following on from the research stages advisers can help make the all-important local connections. This can mean visiting a trade fair or taking part in a trade mission and identifying the right agents, retailers or distributors. “We can connect companies who are considering exporting with an extremely valuable network of international connections, including Scottish Development International offices. We can advise on how to select the right distributor and hook up new exporters with companies here in Scotland who are already exporting successfully.”

Insights based on knowledge Stephanie’s own approach is always to take time to understand a company properly. “I regard it as my due diligence to get to know the companies I work with. Export advice is not a one-size fits all. I often work closely with Business Gateway advisers and other professionals to make sure that I have a rounded view of what the company needs.

“Sometimes companies are looking for more practical detailed support. We can provide advice about adapting products and services for a particular market and understanding any relevant legislation and taxes.”

If you are looking to take your first steps in exporting get in touch with a Scottish Enterprise export adviser today. The adviser in your area is ready to assist with your international development plans and all support is free. Visit scottish-enterprise.com/exportadvice.

CHAMBER NEWS

Scotland’s long tradition of global enterprise and entrepreneurship

With official figures painting a picture of lacklustre growth in Scotland’s economy, the Scottish Chambers of Commerce Quarterly Economic Indicator (QEI) offered some respite from the January blues.

Liz Cameron OBE

Director & Chief Executive, Scottish Chambers of Commerce

The results of the survey, produced in partnership with the Fraser of Allander Institute, showed that, for all the challenges of 2017, businesses in Scotland are defying the “uncertainty” that characterises these times. Against a trend of what the Institute’s Prof Graeme Roy calls “positive but modest growth,” the survey showed evidence that optimism was holding up in financial and business services and manufacturing.

Retailers, although continuing to feel the pressure from the burgeoning ecommerce sector, enjoyed a better Christmas than in recent years, with sales seeing a “significant increase” in the final quarter of 2017.

Similarly, activity in the construction sector has also strengthened, according to the survey. Against this were signs that the boom in Scottish tourism was tailing off, although time will tell whether that proves to be a blip or a trend.

Heightened levels of uncertainty make it unsurprising that investment intentions remain modest, whilst the tight labour market means that many firms continue to report difficulties in recruiting staff. It is encouraging that investment in training is holding up.

“Uncertainty” is of course partly attributable to Brexit. This month’s Scottish Government paper Scotland’s Place in Europe calculated that a no-deal Brexit would cost the Scottish economy up to £12.7bn by 2030.

This, and more recent forecasts by the chief economist, set a precedent for the delineation of worst-case scenarios that would presumably be followed if Brexit prompts the Scottish Government to hold a poll – as the paper suggests – on Scotland’s “membership of the EU as an independent state.”

In the realm of factors that business is able to influence, the QEI’s authors stress the importance in uncertain times of investing in their own productivity and efficiency, and developing the skills of their workforce.

Also under their control is the strength of a commitment to increase exports beyond the UK and beyond Europe, taking advantage of the knowledge and experience available

from public and private sector sources, as well as Scotland’s well-respected and successful business diaspora.

For its part the Chambers network is working hard to connect its members with potential trade partners. Recent initiatives include a memorandum of understanding between SCC Network and the UK-Ghana Chamber of Commerce, driven by Aberdeen Chamber of Commerce. Lochaber Chamber is leading a trip to Nova Scotia next month, just as Glasgow Chamber heads to Manhattan for their second business-tobusiness mission.

In April, SCC consolidates its relationship with the 100 million-population Shandong Province in China, with the largest ever private sector-led mission to this vast market. Our view is that entrepreneurial spirit, careful planning, lateral thinking and skilful management of relationships with key Chinese state and private partners can produce gains capable of shifting the dial on the performance of Scottish exports. We see this kind of internationalisation as the key to growth levels worthy of Scotland’s long tradition of global enterprise and entrepreneurship.

First seen in The Herald 23rd January 2018.

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BUSINESS PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

Innovating success Jim Watson

Director Enterprise and Innovation at Scottish Enterprise You may have already heard that spending on business research and development in Scotland has topped £1 billion for the first time ever. Data published shows Scotland’s R&D investment levels in 2016 were running three times faster than the UK as a whole.

This echoes the results of the EY Attractiveness Survey announced earlier this year, which recognised Scotland as the UK leader in attracting foreign direct investment for R&D projects.

I’m delighted to hear this as it’s a truly fantastic result and one that we should all be very proud of. It also shows that our collective work to help raise levels of business innovation in Scotland is generating serious results.

We set out two years ago to transform Scotland’s innovation performance to equal the best performing nations by 2020, creating the foundations for significant growth in Scotland’s export and productivity performance.

To achieve this, we wanted to create a transformational shift in the ambitions of Scottish companies. So, we designed an integrated approach to stimulate business demand, and aligned our full resources behind it as no single measure will create a step change for Scotland’s levels of business innovation.

We wanted to support companies engaging in innovation to do more of it, get more companies to start innovating, improve our investment in BERD and maximise our sector opportunities.

n Helping over 2800 companies to start innovating

Sounds straightforward, right?! We knew this shift wouldn’t happen overnight, and we’ve still got a long way to go to reach our goals. However, we know from our results and independent research that this approach is working.

n £750 million of new revenue from successful innovation projects with Scottish companies, with international sales comprising half of this

Our performance results over the last two years show a universal rise in business innovation activity across Scotland, regardless of how you measure it.

n £424 million of investment in new R&D activity in Scotland, an increase of 77% compared to the previous two years

We’ve supported over 2800 companies to start innovating in the last two years. This mirrors the most recent UK Innovation Survey which found Scotland has increased its innovation active companies by 7% since 2013.

These figures chime with our own innovation achievements, which we announced yesterday and include:

n Scottish Enterprise-supported projects now account for £1 of every £4 spent on R&D in Scotland You can read the full news release on our media centre.

It’s safe to say business innovation in Scotland is at an all-time high, with

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businesses reaping more commercial success than ever before from their innovation activity to drive their growth and international expansion.

We also know there’s a strong correlation between innovation and exporting, with research showing businesses that actively innovate are twice as likely to grow and three times more likely to export successfully.

Over time we expect the companies we work with to increase their exporting as a result of their innovation activity. This should provide a strong platform and pipeline for growth and exports in the future.

All of this is fantastic news for Scotland’s economy. However, results like these do not happen by accident. They’re the result of a tremendous amount of work from colleagues.

And not just innovation colleagues. These results are down to a fantastic team effort across Scottish Enterprise, with colleagues across a range of teams collaborating on opportunities and connecting us with companies we can help.

The collaboration theme continues as we deliver our work in partnership with a variety of organisations. For example, we are fortunate to have very strong local authority relationships that allow us to pool our resources, reduce duplication and simplify support for companies in the local area.

We’re committed to continuing these collaborations across private and public sector and aim to build momentum throughout 2018.

All of this is fantastic news for Scotland’s economy. But we are even more ambitious for the future to help more companies generate new revenue from innovation activity.

Help us spread the message that there’s a variety of support from Scottish Enterprise to help companies innovate and let’s get more companies growing through innovation.

If you’d like to ask us about our services or events, give us a call on 0300 013 3385 or visit www.scottish-enterprise.com

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Apprentices Tyler Whitty and Kyle Livingstone; Kirsty Bulloch, NES business development manager; Kenny Duncan, NES managing director; Keith Paterson, NES director and Drew Hendry MP

NES planning a major expansion in Scotland NES is pleased to announce that the company is marking five years in business by planning a major expansion of our Scottish operations NES (North Electrical Services) Ltd, which is based in Inverness and Elgin, has already more than quadrupled its permanent workforce to 60 since setting up in 2012.

They are now targeting another four-fold increase, to bring the staff up to 250 within the next five years and are also proposing a move into the central belt.

At the same time, we expect turnover to rise from between £3 million-£4 million to around £12 million-£15 million.

NES had added four new recruits already this year – three admin staff and an estimator – as well as four new apprentice electricians.

The company, which is renowned for its apprentice scheme and ‘grow your own’ staff policy, has based the new trainees in Inverness and Elgin. It brings the total number of apprentices at both sites to 15.

NES’s services include industrial and commercial electrical installation and maintenance works, control and instrumentation, electric motor repair,

overhaul and rewinding for clients including schools, offices, commercial premises, distilleries and fish processing plants.

Our experienced workforce includes electricians, project engineers, estimators and a full-time health and safety manager, a post normally found in much larger businesses.

NES managing director Kenny Duncan says widening our Scottish presence is a natural progression for the company.

“There are still opportunities for us to grow in the North and North-east, but we also feel we can pursue other areas, like the central belt, and other sectors, such as energy and social housing.

“If it goes as we expect it to go over the next 4-5 years we will quadruple the existing workforce and seek new projects we feel we’re well suited to.

“However, we will continue to be heavily focused on apprentices and people development which has been very successful for us.”

NES’s progress has been praised by Inverness, Nairn, Badenoch and Strathspey MP Drew Hendry, who said: “NES is a great success story, growing from a small company to one with 60 employees and with ambitious plans to develop significantly in the next five years.

“The fact that growth has been driven by a desire to create opportunities for young people and on staff development makes the achieved and planned progress even more commendable.”

NES’s workforce is presently around 100 with the addition of contract workers as it completes a major contract for Norbord, Inverness. It is also engaged in projects at Cauldeen School in Inverness; the new £100 million Macallan distillery in Moray and at SGL Carbon Fibers Ltd in Ross-shire Kirsty Bulloch, who has recently been appointed business development manager, will assist in a more pro-active approach to secure new work.

NES’s commitment to safety and developing new staff has seen it win prestigious awards in successive years from SELECT, the Electrical Contractors’ Association of Scotland, which represents more than 1,250 companies, 15,000 electricians and 3,500 apprentices.

NES picked up the award for Best Electrical Safety Project in 2016, having won the Best Use of Training category in 2015.

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RBS

Leveraging the Ecosystem to educate, inspire and connect women in business The Royal Bank of Scotland launched the Women in Business program in 2003 to support women business owners across its commercial, private and corporate banking clients.

Focusing on building internal capabilities first, the Royal Bank of Scotland launched its Women in Business (WiB) program with the goal of becoming the bank of choice for women-owned and led businesses in the UK. Working with a broad ecosystem of partners allowed the bank to expand the initiative into the only holistic banking program in the UK specifically designed to meet the needs of women’s businesses, empowering clients to succeed by educating, connecting and inspiring them. Today the program serves more than 100,000 customers across the UK. During its long history, the Royal Bank has been at the forefront of SME banking in the UK, serving almost a quarter of all businesses in the country. They first focused its WiB efforts internally, developing a Women in Business Specialist program to help employees better understand the needs and challenges of women business owners while promoting the Women’s Market as a market with upside potential. Launched in 2007 and completed on a voluntary basis by employees across the Royal Bank Group, the initiative currently has more than 400 Specialists.

Yvonne Greeves, National Women in Business Manager at the Royal Bank of Scotland said: ‘’The Women in Business Specialists program was a natural response when leading frontline business bankers realized they didn’t have equal representation of males and females in their portfolios. Since we developed the program, we have been able to offer

women the support they need to start and grow their businesses, and accounts for women business owners have increased dramatically.

The program is intended to help bank staff provide women with tailored support and advice for their businesses, boost women’s confidence in their skills and business knowledge, and build their trust with the bank. This course was developed in partnership with everywoman – a global expert in the advancement of women business owners – and comprises a oneday workshop covering topics such as: The Global Landscape for Women in Business, Harnessing Gender Intelligence, Navigating International Growth and Networking.

In 2012, the bank formalized the program and partnered with Chartered Banker, a highly regarded financial services institute in the UK, to accredit all graduates of the WiB Specialists program. Following accreditation, WiB Specialists are able to provide not only specialized business expertise, but support clients and connect them to relevant local organizations, professionals and strategic partners that can help them start and grow their businesses. In 2017 Women in Business Specialists hosted more than 300 events across the UK, reaching more than 12000 people.

The Royal Bank developed a compound approach to achieve this ambition: implementing targets for women’s representation at the most senior levels of management, and developing processes, tools and practices that support gender diversity in the workplace and encourage female leadership.

At the end of 2014, the CEO and Executive Committee of the Royal Bank committed to having at least 30 percent women in the bank’s top three leadership layers across all business lines – comprising about 800 roles – by 2020 and a gender equal workforce

at every level by 2030. Realizing that every part of the organization needed to change and the adjustment would be more difficult across some business areas than others, the bank set individual targets for each area, with some aiming for well in excess of the minimum 30 percent. The targets are included as KPIs for the Executive Committee, formally linking gender balance in the workforce to the pay of senior leaders.

To achieve these goals, the Royal Bank has implemented a “positive action” approach for each business area that is tailored to its specific business challenges. A key component of this approach is providing development, networking and performance support for talented women at all levels of the organization and facilitating the development of female talent.

The Royal Bank is also reviewing the structure of roles predominately held by men, helping to increase both flexibility and female attraction; proactively identifying talent mobility scenarios and moving women around the organization; proactively addressing any gender pay gap; and participating in research to explore the “Lean out” phenomenon and clearing bottlenecks to create space for new talent.

These efforts are having a strong impact.

Women in the top three layers of the Royal Bank leadership have increased by 6 percent since 2014 and now stand at 35 percent in aggregate, and they are on track to have 50 percent women throughout each level of the company before 2030. With the work of the WIB programme and the progress on female leadership, the Royal Bank of Scotland is committed to being the proactive bank for females both internally and externally.

“Since we developed the program, we have been able to offer women the support they need to start and grow their businesses, and accounts for women business owners have increased dramatically.”

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Made to measure for women in business We’re the Royal Bank for Scotland.

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2017 Scottish Borders Business Excellence Awards

Lifetime Achievement Award

Celebrating all that is best in the Borders business sector, the 2017 Scottish Borders Business Excellence Awards ceremony took place on Friday 3rd November at Springwood Park, Kelso.

For the third year in a row, this annual awards scheme was organised and hosted by the Scottish Borders Chamber of Commerce (SBCC).

Attended by 200 guests, the gala event was once again presided over by TV presenter Fiona Armstrong. The Guest of Honour was Malcolm Buchanan, Chairman of the Scotland Board of the Royal Bank of Scotland.

Jack Clark, Chairman of SBCC, said: “With entries up a staggering 300% on last year, it is clear that the business and commercial sector here in the Borders is in fine fettle and that confidence is growing. That’s great news. These awards are a fantastic way to recognise and celebrate the success of the many innovative and high quality businesses we have here in the Borders. The judges – to whom go our thanks – have done an excellent job in examining every submission and coming up with worthy winners in each tightly contested category.

fact that the Borders is a great location from which to do business and run a successful company.

“These awards are all about recognising excellence and quality, surely two of the most vital ingredients in any company’s long term success and growth. The diversity of the submissions we received, and the range of ambitious businesses they represent across many sectors, are testament to the

Cllr Mark Rowley, Scottish Borders Council Executive Member for Business & Economic Development: “Events such as this demonstrate just what an incredible range of businesses we have here in the Borders, of all sizes and in all sectors, and the fantastic products, services and work opportunities

“The Chamber’s thanks go to all our sponsors and other companies for their support. To all our winners and runnersup, I say ‘Congratulations and continued success.’”

they provide. I hope these awards encourage all our local firms to shout about their successes throughout the year, building up new custom and encouraging partnerships with others. SBC is passionate about supporting local businesses to grow and reach their full potential. Our Business Gateway service is a one-stop shop providing new and established firms and entrepreneurs with free advice and support on a wide range of topics from social media advertising to exporting.”

Winners included Mitchell Glass, SME Business of the Year; Duns Castle Estate, Tourism & Hospitality Business of the Year; Farne Salmon, Supporting Young Workforce Business of the Year; Johnstones of Elgin, Manufacturer & Exporter of the Year; Ron Hastings of Hastings Legal, Business Leader of the Year; and Ron Wilson of Border Union Agricultural Society, Lifetime Achievement Award.

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REDUCING CARBON FOOTPRINT

Reducing your carbon footprint The new Scottish energy strategy was published on 20 December 2017, with the aim of sourcing 50% of all energy in Scotland from renewable means by 2030 and increasing energy efficiency by 30% within the same timeframe.

To date, the industry has focused on decarbonising electricity; the new targets will shift the focus towards heat and transport.

Richard Turnbull

Energy lawyer and partner at law firm TLT

The government has several priorities that underpin these targets. It wants to improve the energy efficiency of Scotland’s buildings, industrial processes and manufacturing and offer businesses secure, resilient and flexible energy supplies.

There will undoubtedly be supporting legislation to implement the new strategy but also incentives such as business rate reliefs, energy efficiency grants or loans and low carbon innovation and implementation funds. We are also likely to see a change in planning policy and building regulations to support low carbon development and energy efficiency improvements to existing buildings.

Now is the time for Scottish businesses to revisit their green credentials and put carbon reduction measures in place. There are simple measures that can be quickly implemented, such as smart metering, energy efficiency policies (including turning off monitors at night, using less paper and recycling waste) and replacing inefficient lighting with LED bulbs.

Another relatively quick fix is to switch to an electricity provider that offers a Renewable Energy Guarantee of Origin (REGO) backed supply. The REGO scheme is administered

by Ofgem and offers transparency about the proportion of electricity a supplier sources from renewable generation. The supplier must ring fence your equivalent usage and

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source that proportion of power from a renewable generator.

pay back periods and a renewed interest in deployment.

Businesses already have energy efficiency obligations for commercial premises under the Assessment of Energy Performance of Non-Domestic Buildings Scotland Regulations 2016, which in short require businesses to establish and implement an energy efficiency improvement action plan for certain buildings. The regulations are relatively toothless at present, but are likely to be tightened under the new strategy with a greater emphasis on implementation and enforcement.

The rapid development of battery storage technology now means that this can be co-located with a renewable energy source to store power until it is needed. The key commercial benefit is of course avoiding peak time charges and guaranteeing a long term supply of power and heat for your business. With energy costs accounting for up to 25% of the overheads for heavy industries, the ability to avoid unpredictable pricing and reduce dependency on the wholesale electricity market is a huge step towards becoming a sustainable business.

Energy storage also has wider benefits such as power price arbitrage and triad management.

There are more radical measures that can be taken to decarbonise heat supplies. District heating schemes are increasingly popular and well supported by government policy and funding. Becoming a stakeholder in a district heating network can not only reduce your carbon footprint but can also provide a cost effective and sustainable heat supply.

Heat pumps (air, water or ground source) can also be used to transmit thermal energy around commercial premises with attractive subsidy payments available through the Renewable Heat Incentive. There are also a host of renewable technologies that can be integrated into businesses to meet electricity demand and decarbonise electricity use. The most appropriate technology depends on your business needs, however examples of successful deployment in Scottish businesses are solar (ground or roof mounted), wind turbines, energy from waste systems such as combined heat and power boilers, and anaerobic digesters and hydro power. Despite the recent curtailment on subsidies for the deployment of these technologies, costs are falling, giving shorter

Decarbonising transportation is another key priority for the Scottish government.

Businesses will be aware of the incentives around the electrification of vehicles and the recent budget commitment of ÂŁ400 million for the creation of a national electric vehicle charging network. However, hydrogen powered commercial vehicles should also be considered. For example , surplus electricity generated from a renewable source can be converted through electrolysis and stored as hydrogen for use on vehicle fleets.

For further reading, businesses should visit the Energy Saving Trust (EST) website.

There is also financial support available through government initiatives such as the Low Carbon Innovation Fund, interest free loans and grants administered by the EST including a low carbon transport business loan, an SME loan scheme for energy efficiency and a Renewable Energy Investment Fund that is administered through Scottish Enterprise.

REDUCING CARBON FOOTPRINT

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For commercial buildings and offices

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REDUCING CARBON FOOTPRINT - VEO

Announcement of company acquisition I.C ELECTRICAL will be part of the VEO-Group Finnish Technology Company VEO Oy has acquired a major ownership of British Electrical Installations and contracting Company I.C.Electrical Ltd. (ICE).

ICE became part of the VEO group on 15th December, when the deal was closed.

VEO has headquarters in Vaasa at west coast of Finland and it has subsidiaries in Sweden and Norway. This acquisition strengthens its position in UK market which is in line its internationalization and growth strategy.

During the last 10 years the Companies have made successful co-operation in UK markets and this acquisition shows our customers the commitment to stay, grow and develop our services in UK despite the uncertainty of Brexit.

“ICE’s extensive experience in the UK market combining with VEO’s products and expertise creates a strong foundation to build on.

Growth and internationalisation will continue to play an important role in VEO’s plans for the future,” says CEO Marko Ekman from VEO. The two Electrically biased companies first worked together back in 2008, bringing Finnish expertise and UK local knowledge together on two Biomass Projects in the North of England.

In 2010 ICE and VEO needed to meet to finalise a combined offer for another Biomass Project in the UK. Unfortunately the infamous Icelandic ash cloud prevented air travel.

With the deadline for the final offer looming the ICE management team of Tim McNeilly and Chris Emmerson took the decision to drive to Finland, utilizing ferries where the water mass got in the way.

The ICE team completed the 1800 km journey in less than 48 hours, the two Companies met and were successful in winning the Project.

This set the tone for the co-operation – the “can do” attitude has prevailed and is at the forefront of the Business as a combined unit today. “ The synergies between our Companies are enormous, this matched with an unrivalled level of trust and co-operation alongside engineering knowhow gives us a winning formula” Says Tim McNeilly Recently VEO and ICE has been working successfully in Scotland providing a turnkey electrification package to Norbord Inverness site. The project included deliveries from 33kV grid connection to small distribution panels and full commissioning of the whole electrical system. Other ones were done in

Left to Right: Jarkko Aro, Tim McNeilly, Chris Emmerson, Marko Ekman and Timo Ala-Heikkila

Aberdeen for BHS & Suez and in a Distillery in Dufftown.

ICE will be integrated into the VEO Group with following changes: n Tim McNeilly has been appointed to Managing Director. Tim has been working previously as Commercial and Contracts Director in the Company n Jarkko Aro has been appointed to Sales and Operative Director. Jarkko has been working previously at VEO as a Vice President of Industry business unit and since August as a Director of VEO UK business development.

“We are a reliable local partner that provides a variety of flexible services and products ranging from major turnkey deliveries to individual installation and product deliveries.

Moving forward, our broad expertise can be utilised particularly in Waste to Energy plants, which generate electricity to the network and heat to local houses or businesses by incinerating waste, which normally would go to landfill” says Jarkko Aro, who joined the ICE organisation as Director following the acquisition. Jarkko has previously served as Vice President for the Industry business unit at VEO and since August as responsible of VEO’s business development in the UK. VEO’s own products and in-house production creates competitive advantage that supports the company’s growth in international markets.

“Product design and production at own factory supports the flexibility and efficiency of our operations,” Aro explains.

- Chris Emmerson will remain in the company as Director, but will be working on a part time basis and Shaun Mariott

continues in his role as Engineering Director.

Otherwise the Company and its employees will continue normally day to day business as usual.

The new ICE strengthened with VEO’s range of products and engineering will offer its customers and partners more added value by means of wider scope of supply, turnkey EAI engineering and high end technology products made either locally or in Finland.

Tim McNeilly Managing Director commented “This acquisition represents a positive step forward for VEO in the United Kingdom and is evidence of our genuine desire to continue on the path of growth in spite of the uncertainty created by Brexit. Together, VEO and ICE can provide their customers with the most suitable comprehensive deliveries on a project-specific basis, with products delivered from either Finland or the United Kingdom. ICE offers engineering, design, control panels and installations that complement VEO’s existing product and services range. We at ICE look forward to sharing the benefits of the cooperation with both our new and existing customers.

The new I.C.Electrical part of the VEO group is set-up for strong growth target in UK market and is therefore actively looking for new skilled and highly motivated employees to join our team either locally site based or at our main office in Burton upon Trent For more information, please contact: Marko Ekman, Chief Executive Officer, VEO Oy, tel. +358 50 526 5293 Tim McNeilly, Managing Director, IC Electrical Ltd, tel. +44 1283 530 666 Jarkko Aro, Sales and Operative Director, IC Electrical Ltd, tel. +44 7914 676 986

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REDUCING CARBON FOOTPRINT

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Through technical monitoring, consultancy and design, installation and maintenance, we address energy efficiency in its broadest context.

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REDUCING CARBON FOOTPRINT

Discover the benefits of being The Switched On @Work programme supports organisations interested in helping their employees identify the benefits of switching to ultra-low emission vehicles (ULEVs). ULEVs range from pure electric, plug-in hybrids and range extended vehicles.

Partner benefits

The programme is managed by independent experts at the Energy Saving Trust. It aims to reduce the carbon intensity of Scotland’s transport system, by enabling employees to make more cost-effective and greener travel choices.

n help your employees identify the benefits of switching to ULEVs through an employee survey, workshop and Q&A session.

So far this financial year, over 500 employees across Scotland have benefited from a free Switched On @Work workshop.

“Switched On @Work is a terrific initiative, and can really help drive the shift to low emission vehicles in Scotland. The recent workshop at the Highland Council provided many staff with food for thought in terms of switching to a ULEV. Key to this was the ability to talk with knowledgeable specialists in a non-sales environment.”

Keith Masson, Climate Change Officer, The Highland Council.

Switched On @Work is completely free and open to employers in Scotland whatever their size or sectors.

Once you sign up as a Switched On @Work partner we will work with you to:

n organise vehicle test drives at your workplace. n help you to set your own goals for the programme and align them with your corporate sustainability objectives.

Energy Saving Trust also offers impartial advice and support on: n workplace charging and accessing the growing network of public charge points in Scotland. n the financial support available from both the UK and Scottish Governments. n the benefits of switching to electric vehicles and active travel choices.

n fuel efficient driving techniques to help cut fuel bills through the FuelGood driver training programme.

If you or your employer is interested in learning more about Switched On @Work, please email SwitchedON@est.org.uk.

become a partner Switched On @Work supports organisations interested in helping their employees to make more cost-effective and greener travel choices.

Energy Saving Trust offers impartial advice and support on:

Benefits of electric cars with the chance to test drive

Workplace and home charging

Financial support from both the UK and Scottish Governments

Active travel choices including cycling and ebikes

If you or your employer is interested in learning more about Switched On @Work, please email SwitchedOn@est.org.uk

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DEVELOPING YOUNG WORKFORCE

Helping young people step into care The current population of Dumfries and Galloway is ageing and declining. Recent research by the Developing Young Workforce (DYW) programme in Dumfries and Galloway revealed that by 2035, the region will need an extra 507 residential beds and 4600 hours of care home time, costing an extra £9.6 million. This is an increase of 57% on the service currently being delivered.

At present, new carers aren’t being recruited in sufficient numbers, and the rate at which carers leave the profession is around 85%.

Working together, DYW, the Care Training Consortium (CTC) and Lowland Training Services have put together an innovative 16week Care Course. This will be available to 18 to 25 year olds throughout the region.

Participants are given the opportunity to gain not only certified care qualifications but also practical work experience and a guaranteed job interview. Participants are also given a realistic expectation of what it is like to work in the Care Sector. In addition, an SQA Employability Award including the skills required to make effective job applications and how to be successful at interview are also included.

Justin Thomas, Programme Manager, Developing the Young Workforce said “Step into Care is a true example of what DYW is all about – identifying the requirements of sectors in our region and then providing a service to address them, using relevant partnerships to ensure that our young people are supported and given the opportunities they need.”

Paula Mitchell, General Manager, the Care Training Consortium (CTC) said “Step into Care will give the young person, a realistic introduction to the care sector. They will attend a supported programme of training and development, they will also have a mentored placement within a care setting, where they will gain a view of what caring means and the positive impact that it can have on an individual’s life.”

The partners were delighted when a bid to the Holywood Trust was awarded in order to finance the project. Holywood Trust Director, Karen Ward Boyce said “The Trust welcomes this approach, to help young people better understand the potential of working in the care sector, the range of roles available and the value of this important work. We will be interested to see the outcomes of the pilot work in both Dumfries and Stranraer, and how young people locally respond to this excellent training opportunity.”

Information sessions are being held in Dumfries on 24th January and Stranraer on

13th March 2018. Courses will start later in the year.

For further information or wish to make a referral to the programme, then please

do not hesitate to contact: anneclark@ lowlandtraining.co.uk (Dumfries) or tracyjohnson@lowlandtraining.co.uk (Stranraer)

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COVER STORY

Apprenticeship boost for Scottish economy More than 3,500 new apprenticeship opportunities this year will help boost Scotland’s economy and give young people a head-start in their careers.

Skills Development Scotland (SDS) is supporting around 2,600 Foundation Apprenticeships for pupils and approximately 900 Graduate Apprenticeships in 2018.

SDS already works with industry and employers, supporting more than 26,000 Modern Apprenticeships last year, set to rise to 30,000 per year by 2020.

The new Foundation and Graduate Apprenticeships are backed by employers, universities, colleges and schools across the country.

SDS Chief Executive Damien Yeates said work-based learning and apprenticeships are vital for Scotland’s future prosperity.

He said: “Scotland has great ambitions to increase productivity and generate inclusive growth, all against the backdrop of an ageing population, rapid technological change and real pressure on public spending.

“This means finding new and innovative ways, such as Foundation and Graduate Apprenticeships, to match the skills people develop with the ones employers need.

“Apprenticeships are a vital piece of the

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jigsaw to improve Scotland’s productivity, which will benefit individuals, employers and the wider economy.”

Paul Campbell, Organisational Learning and Development Lead at Scottish Water, said: “Scottish Water have a broad range of apprenticeship programmes which have a high currency in our business.

“Many of our leaders have themselves been former apprentices, and there is a great deal of value placed on the development of our people so they fully understand the nature of our business, have the technical skills to perform safely and effectively, and understand the vital role that Scottish Water play within our communities and society.

“SDS’s full family of apprenticeships give more flexibility and choice than ever before, providing pathways to enter into skills development at different points and at different stages of life.”

Foundation and Graduate Apprenticeships have been developed by SDS, in partnership with employers, universities and colleges with support from the European Social Fund.

Apprenticeships are a vital piece of the jigsaw to improve Scotland’s productivity, which will benefit individuals, employers and the wider economy.

COVER STORY

More information about how employers can get involved with Apprenticeships visit: www.apprenticehips.scot To follow Skills Development Scotland on Twitter to keep up-to-date with the latest Apprenticeship news: @skillsdevscotland

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COVER STORY

More employers getting behind apprenticeships More businesses than ever before are benefiting from skills development thanks to apprenticeships.

As Scotland’s national skills body, Skills Development Scotland (SDS) is committed to help create a skilled workforce that’s ready to face the future.

International evidence shows that Europe’s highest performing economies have strong work-based learning systems which contribute to fewer skills shortages; higher economic growth and lower youth unemployment.

Earlier exposure to the world of work helps individuals to develop the skills, experience and competence that they will need when they leave school.

Modern Apprenticeships offer young people the chance to work, learn and earn while providing employers with the talent they need to grow their business either through new recruits of existing staff.

New Foundation Apprenticeships (FA) have been developed to bring education and industry closer. They give school pupils the opportunity to complete a qualification where the learning is work based.

While Graduate Apprenticeships (GLA) are taking work-based learning higher, giving apprentices the opportunity to study up to Master’s degree level.

Head of Foundation and Apprenticeships at Skills Development Scotland, Diane Greenlees, said: “Big drivers shaping the

Employers and partners – including regional Developing Young Workforce groups – across Scotland are really embracing the long-term benefits that Foundation Apprenticeships will bring, by providing a pipeline of talent for the future.

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economy and the labour market include improving productivity; technological change and the decline in the working age population.

“We believe that work-based learning and apprenticeships will be major contributors to addressing these issues.

“With thousands more opportunties for young people to take up Foundation and Graduate Apprenticeships this year, this is a fantastic time for employers to develop their workforce.

“Employers and partners – including regional Developing Young Workforce groups – across Scotland are really embracing the long-term benefits that Foundation Apprenticeships will bring, by providing a pipeline of talent for the future.

“Foundation Apprenticeships introduce young people to work-based learning while at school –they have huge potential to change the way we develop skills for the future.

“Foundation Apprenticeships are now the first, vital step in engaging with young people about apprenticeships and the benefits of work-based learning.

“They foster stronger links between employers and education, helping to ensure that local employers have the opportunity to play a more active role in developing

the young workforce and shaping the next generation of talent.”

There are 12 types of Foundation Apprenticeships covering key sectors, all based on the successful Modern Apprenticeship programme.

Young people can choose FAs alongside their other senior subject choices and can complete elements of a Modern Apprenticeship while still at school.

As well as broadening their skill set, the FA boosts their confidence and gives them an idea of what the world of work is really like.

Every local authority area in Scotland now has Foundation Apprenticeship programmes up and running with universities across Scotland agreeing to accept them as entry requirements for related and in most cases, all, courses.

Industry is embracing Foundation Apprenticeships too, with employers like Scottish Water and Prudential recognising the importance of engaging with young people about career pathways and skills for the workplace as early as possible.

Employers can get involved in FAs in partnership with colleges and schools across the country.

More information about how employers can get involved with FAs and Apprenticeships is available at www.apprenticehips.scot

COVER STORY

Scottish Apprenticeship Week Scottish Apprenticeship Week is the annual campaign to show that apprenticeships work for businesses, individuals and the economy.

Recognising the fundamental role employers play in helping apprentices launch their careers, the theme of Scottish Apprenticeship Week 2018 is Apprenticeships Are The Business.

Organised by Skills Development Scotland (SDS), Scottish Apprenticeship Week 2018 takes place from 5-9 March.

The campaign is backed by apprentices, employers, industry bodies, councils, training providers, colleges, universities, local authorities and all those with a shared interest in the success of apprenticeships.

Last year more than 200 events and activities took place across the country from Shetland to the Borders, with employers including family firms to mult-nationals getting behind the campaign.

Liz Cameron OBE, Scottish Chambers of Commerce, discusses the impact that Scottish Apprenticeship week has on showcasing Scotland’s young talent: “Scottish Apprenticeship Week is one of the highlights of the year, showcasing Scotland’s young talent and profiling the many career opportunities that exist within Scottish businesses. With 2018 earmarked

as Scotland’s Year of Young People, there has never been a better time for businesses to get on board and create apprenticeship opportunities.”

The search for Scotland’s next Apprentice of the Year will also get underway, and employers can find out how to get involved in the Scottish Apprenticeship Challenge.

Businesses can back the week by signing the online ‘Employer Promise’ to show their commitment to apprenticeships.

Find out more about apprenticeships and the campaign at www.apprenticeships.scot

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BUSINESS SUCCESS

Scottish Business Mentoring leads Macduff 1890 into the 21st Century Scottish Business Mentoring is for ambitious businesses and social enterprises that want to realise their personal and business growth ambitions, giving them the ability to take their company to new heights. Business Mentoring matches experienced mentors who come from all business areas and sectors with growing businesses. By sharing the entrepreneurial experiences of mentors, this service gives the business the confidence to develop and grow, and access to a great network of contacts that can open doors and inspire new thinking.

Mentee

Mentor

continue to meet up every quarter for a catch-up, although the year-long period of the engagement has officially ended.

Andrew Duff Managing Director, Macduff 1890

Alan Burnett Sector Experience: Finance

“I know his business quite well now, and it gives him another sounding board if you like,” says Alan.

It takes state-of-the-art business processes and marketing techniques to sell a traditional Scottish food product these days which is why Andrew Duff turned to the Scottish Business Mentoring.

his MBA degree and his family’s lifelong understanding and passion for quality meat were not quite enough. A new perspective preferably from someone with wider market knowledge was required.

The fourth generation of his family to go into the premium Scotch beef and lamb wholesale business founded in 1890, Andrew (29) is described by his mentor Alan Burnett as “a very intelligent young guy with lots of energy who’d succeed in anything he turned his hand to.”

Alan Burnett, a veteran of S&N and Montpeliers bar and restaurant group is an experienced mentor with particular expertise (not relevant in this case) of business turnarounds. In some situations the industry or sector of the mentor is irrelevant, the key factor is the mentor’s ability to look at a company with an outsider’s eye.

Andrew was smart enough to know that, if he wanted to fulfil his dream of “Taking the MacDuff business into the 21st Century” as the firm planned for his father’s projected retirement in a few years’ time,

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In the case of Alan and Andrew, so enjoyable and interesting was the experience that mentor and mentee

“I think there is always a danger in mentoring that you can overstep yourself and you are almost trying to run the guy’s business for them. This is a mistake. It’s the mentees who have got the answers and your job as a mentor is to lead them towards making the right decisions.”

In the case of MacDuff, there was no micromanagement advice that Alan could usefully give Andrew as he attempted to reposition the venerable company for today’s dynamic premium food sector.

This feat requires specialist knowledge about such things as sourcing meat from native cattle breeds and diversifying into the trendy biltong [dried or cured ‘jerky’] products.

However, the mentor could and did advise on business processes that would support

BUSINESS SUCCESS

such moves such as how to make the flow and presentation of financial information more current.

As Alan says: “Andrew was aware in a broad strategic sense of what he had to do but by his own admission he didn’t have a great handle on the numbers. Whatever business you are in you need to have to have a few indicators that have to be moving in the right direction. My background is in finance and the lessons from that are widely applicable. I was able to look at the business with a fresh eye.”

With these business fundamentals nailed down through the mentoring engagement, Andrew is now free to concentrate on giving MacDuff its due place as a great Scottish food brand. These days that means giving it an online presence (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter), channels that have already gained the company additional sales.

“We have already got new customers based on how good the brand looks online.”

Andrew says “We’ve renamed it as MacDuff 1890 with the tagline ‘Always leading the field’. Through YouTube videos, we can get across the quality provenance and the traceability of all the meat we produce. We see a gap in the market for quality meat from native breeds and from being nearly all sourced from continental breeds, now 30% “native”. We’re really pushing on the fact

that that we are niche producers by giving customers all the information they need.”

“We are also restarting our export operation again, joining [public-private trade body] Scotland Food and Drink and looking at the potential for new products.”

As Andrew Duff describes it mentoring has helped get the company into shape to participate in one of the great Scottish economy success stories, the food and drink sector and play its part in reaching its projected value of £30bn by 2030.

“I introduced him to the concept of a moving annual total and accounting metric which is what we used at S&N. As long as you had a positive in that and the volumes are going to be ok, then you will be alright. We also got to focus on the margins of the business and emphasise how important they were. Andrew was good on margins and understood the importance of protecting them.”

“I introduced him to the concept of a moving annual total and accounting metric which is what we used at S&N. As long as you had a positive in that and the volumes are going to be ok, then you will be alright. We also got to focus on the margins of the business and emphasise how important they were. Andrew was good on margins and understood the importance of protecting them.” www.scottishbusinessmentoring.co.uk

It’s really positive to discuss issues with someone who is outside of the business who can give an outside perspective and reassure you that other businesses go through similar issues. Alan’s support became invaluable when it came to the financial side of the business and his ongoing support has definitely influenced the turnover of the business in the last 12 months in a positive way.

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SCOTTISH ENTERPRISE CONFERENCING AND EVENTS

Face-to-face contact the key in the world of conferences The conferences and event sector is booming at the moment, creating jobs and bringing investment to a wide range of venues.

An industry which employs more than 550,000 people, the UK events sector is estimated to contribute more than £36 billion to the UK economy each year with the Business Visits and Events Partnership having forecast that the figure will grow to £48.4 billion by 2020.

The main reason for the sector’s success, according to industry experts, is its ability to constantly try out new things while never

losing touch with the needs of its clients.

Those clients say that, amid all the innovation and clever technology, the main reason they like conferences is their ability to provide face-to-face contacts.

Anyone in business will tell you that, despite the rapid advances in communications technology, face-to-face contact remains the best way of bringing in new contracts and retaining existing ones; humans still have a fundamental need to look each other in the eye when communicating despite the rapid growth of the Internet.

The key to making such events a success is spending a little time choosing the right venue and making sure that you get the right support from its staff.

Even if that may mean paying a little extra, it is money well spent because it does not make sense to cut corners when such an approach could make your event less than effective.

When assessing the venue, be it a specialist conference centre or the likes of hotels, you are looking for a number of important factors.

Can the venue 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? If the answers to those questions are yes then the event is likely to be a success.

AN ENVIRONMENT TO INSPIRE IDEAS THAT CHANGE THE WORLD Located in the heart of Edinburgh, the EICC boasts a series of innovative event suites, all of which are fully accessible and incredibly flexible - but above all, our venue provides the perfect environment to inspire the vital networking and sharing of ideas which bring your event to life.

Contact us today to discuss the requirements for your next event.

Edinburgh International Conference Centre | The Exchange | Edinburgh | EH3 8EE t: 0131 300 3333 e: sales@eicc.co.uk w: www.eicc.co.uk

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SCOTTISH ENTERPRISE CONFERENCING AND EVENTS

Dunkeld House Hotel Dunkeld House Hotel has gone through some exciting developments over the past year. Formerly under the Hilton brand, Dunkeld House Hotel is now independently owned and has recently completed a £3 million refurbishment.

The significant investment has seen the tasteful modernisation of the hotel while being mindful of the building’s history and traditional iconic features.

Despite being located on a 280 acre estate, Dunkeld House Hotel is incredibly central being about an hour from two of Scotland’s major cities, Glasgow and Edinburgh but still have fantastic access to the great outdoors.

With 98 fantastic guest rooms and six individually designed function rooms, Dunkeld House Hotel has the capacity to cater for both small and large meetings and events of up to 140.

Although providing offerings for both the leisure and MICE markets, Dunkeld House Hotel has found the perfect balance so that everyone can enjoy what they have to offer whether it be the activities on the grounds such as clay pigeon shooting (County Clays on the estate is the biggest sporting clay pigeon range in Scotland), getting an adrenaline rush with Land Rover Off Road or

enjoying some ‘me’ time in their health club and spa.

Having hosted conferences and events for clients such as Deloitte, Cannonball Ireland, Peter Vardy, the NHS, and the Bentley and Jaguar car clubs, it is clear that Dunkeld House Hotel is becoming a popular choice for industry professionals.

Corporate Rates 24 Hour Rate from £135.00 Day Delegate Rate from £29.50

Tel: 01350 728338 www.dunkeldhousehotel.co.uk

Offer available until 31 March 2018. Terms and conditons apply

Dunkeld | Perthshire | Scotland | PH8 0HX

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FURTHER INFORMATION

CONFERENCING AND EVENTS

With 18 function suites to choose from including our newly refurbished Grandstand and over 1000 complimentary car parking spaces on-site, it is easy to understand why Hamilton Park Racecourse is the venue of choice for a wide range of corporate events.

Day Delegate Rates from ÂŁ20 + VAT per person For further information e-mail enquiries@hamilton-park.co.uk or call us on 01698 206478

www.hamilton-park.co.uk 1790_Prestige_Advert_Oct17.indd 1

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BUSINESS SUCCESS

Create the conditions for long-term business success

Dr Adam Marshall

Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce

While uncertainty has undoubtedly affected businesses over the last eighteen months – accentuated by every twist and turn in Holyrood, Westminster and Brussels – many firms have prospered, thanks both to their own dynamism and the strength of the global economy. Chamber business communities have proven resilient, and maintained their focus on the bottom line.

This resilience was validated at the end of last year when Forbes named the UK the best country in the world to do business.

This accolade is a welcome boost to the animal spirits and confidence of our business communities, and a testament to their hard-work in the face of ongoing political uncertainty.

In Chambers of Commerce all across the UK, there is a clear sense that firms recognise that their success is intrinsically linked to the places they work, and the people they work with – and that when businesses prosper, so, too, do local communities.

That’s why it’s crucial for both the UK and Scottish governments to listen to and learn from our business communities – and work with us in partnership to create the conditions for sustained, long-term growth.

Future business success for Scottish and UK firms will be helped over the course of 2018 if the UK government can secure both a transition arrangement and the outline of a good trade deal with the European Union, to give businesses a strong level of market access.

Yet the business environment here at home is just as – if not more – important.

Alleviating the labour shortages affecting many of our business communities, improving our physical and digital infrastructure, implementing a place-based

Industrial Strategy that boosts local growth, and support for trade will all go a long way in helping Scotland’s and Britain’s business communities to thrive.

Skills is going to be a priority issue this year. The latest BCC Quarterly Economic Survey showed that recruitment difficulties are reaching critical levels, and while governments have a crucial role to play in remedying these shortages, so too does business. Firms have a responsibility to invest time and resources in training employees and help ensure a pipeline of future talent.

I know that SCC and Chambers across Scotland will continue to engage with Holyrood on the many pressing issues facing businesses here at home – and BCC will continue to do so at Westminster as well.

Let’s work together to make 2018 a year where business bucks Brexit uncertainty – and feels confident to go for growth.

Dr Adam Marshall is Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce

Future business success for Scottish and UK firms will be helped over the course of 2018 if the UK government can secure both a transition arrangement and the outline of a good trade deal with the European Union, to give businesses a strong level of market access.

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MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Family businesses make their mark in Lochaber Family businesses account for nearly a quarter of UK GDP and employ nearly 12 million people, however, only 43% have a succession plan and only 12% will make it through to the third generation: it’s estimated that over 75% of Scottish businesses are family-owned. Even although these businesses make up the backbone of our economy, the challenges that face them are complex and sometimes not clearly understood.

Generally, families do not plan for succession and research shows that this is one of the major reasons why many family businesses fail to sustain growth beyond the first generation of ownership. There are many possible reasons for this: the emotional element of letting go of something that has taken a lifetime to build, concerns over the capability and willingness of the next generation to carry on, and worries about choosing who should join and in what roles.

While family businesses will always have their unique challenges, they also have unique opportunities. It’s important that they take time to consider their own family and work culture, the governance of the business and the influence of the different generations within the business.

One outstanding example of a Lochaber family business which has successfully navigated its way through these issues is Ferguson Transport & Shipping. This national transport company is an amazing example of how good succession planning can help a family business thrive through the generations. They have won numerous awards, the business employs over 190 members of staff, of which 12 are family members and six are from the third generation.

Lochaber is a great place to run a family business in a range of sectors – we have an entrepreneurial economy which positively encourages new business start-ups, an excellent business support network, fantastic community spirit and a stunning natural environment that offers families the chance to create a healthy work/life balance.

One local family business that has set up in a different way – with two generations working together from the very beginning is ‘Three Wise Monkeys’ climbing centre in Fort William. This family business is helping to introduce more locals and visitors to the fun and challenge of indoor climbing and bouldering. This company is in its early stages of development but currently employs 15 people and is proving to be a popular hub for the climbing community.

One local family business that has set up in a different way – with two generations working together from the very beginning - is ‘Three Wise Monkeys’ climbing centre in Fort William. This family business is helping to introduce more locals and visitors to the fun and challenge of indoor climbing and bouldering. This company is in its early stages of development but currently employs 15 people and is proving to be a popular hub for the climbing community.

Another local family business success is Great Glen Charcuterie, which was set up 10 years ago by Anja and Jan Jacob. They have recently won a supply contract for the Caledonian sleeper service to London for their hand produced and air dried wild venison charcuterie. The contract was awarded following a Lochaber Chamber of Commerce ‘Meet the Buyer’ event with SERCO who were keen to source local produce from small businesses for their overnight service to London.

In recognition of the contribution that family businesses make to the Lochaber economy, we are planning a ‘Helping your family business to thrive’ training as part of our 2018 business events calendar. Visit www.lochaberchamber.co.uk/events for further details.

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Study Arabic, Islamic Finance & Islamic Studies at Al-Maktoum College in Dundee

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Focus on Training and Development

in association with

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A small private multicultural college based in up and coming city of Dundee

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Al-Maktoum College, Dundee The College is an independent centre of excellence for teaching and research in the study of Islam and Muslims. It offers six full-time courses, as well as Arabic language and an Open Lecture series. Exciting new courses are being developed and will be offered on-campus as well as online.

Join the mailing list to find out more.

The courses currently available are: • Professional Diploma in Islamic Economics and Finance • Advanced Diploma in Islamic Studies • Advanced Diploma in Arabic Language • Diploma in Arabic Language • Certificates in Arabic Language • Introductory Certificate in Arabic Language Students who study at The College can open up professional career options in the public and private sector at local, national and international levels, plus the voluntary sector, social and charitable organisations, and other multicultural contexts.

There has never been a better time to study in Dundee, UNESCO City of

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Design 2016, where the £80 million V&A Museum of Design is under construction on the city’s dramatic waterfront.

The College, a not-for-profit educational charity, is located within the city’s vibrant university district and is an important part of the local community with its well-established Open Lectures, featuring speakers from all over the world.

“A total of 150 students from over 30 countries, including Scotland, have graduated from the College over the past decade and all speak highly of their experience with us.”

Bursaries for students are available and full information on them, plus details of all College courses, can be found here: www.almcollege.org.uk

www.almcollege.org.uk

Contact Al-Maktoum College, Dundee 124 Blackness Road, Dundee DD1 5PE T +44 (0)1382 908 070 E admissions@almcollege.org.uk www.almcollege.org.uk

lifeSKILLS Centres Short Course About Our Courses lifeSKILLS has been delivering high quality, employer facing and client centred training for over 10 years and we offer a wide range of short courses, including hospitality, retail, customer service, social care, administration, health and Beauty, security and construction training.

We have an extensive footprint and existing infrastructure in 22 of the 32 local authority areas in Scotland.

Funding All our courses are eligible for an Individual Training Accounts (ITA’s).

ITA’s are for people who are 16 or over, living in Scotland and who will benefit most from this support. Individuals can apply for an ITA if:

n They do not have a degree or above, are not undertaking any secondary, further or higher education, training through the Employability Fund or Modern Apprenticeship n They are not participating on the Community Jobs Scotland programme n They must also have an income of £22,000 a year or less, or be on benefits SDS Individual Training Accounts give up to £200 towards the costs of learning or training for eligible learners.

For detailed eligibility criteria, please contact a member of our team or alternatively visit: www.myworldofwork.co.uk

28 Training Centres throughout Scotland

www.lifeskillscentres.com

Tel: 0300 200 4113

enquiries@lifeskillscentres.com

(+44) 01698 456 800

Construction Courses CSCS HS&E Test and Card and two free re-sit

REHIS Health and Safety and Green Labourer's Card

(including materials) Self-Study & Test Day - £175.00

One Day plus & Test Day - £150.00

Overview

Overview

The Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) have made changes to obtaining a Green Labourer’s Card. These new requirements were introduced in July 2014 and state that along with the CITB Health, Safety and Environment (HS&E) Test, a QCF qualification (or alternative) must be achieved in order to apply for the Green Labourer’s Card.

Is this right for me?

This course is suitable for individuals with a current relevant Level 1 Health and Safety qualification (Labourers) or Approved Apprenticeship certificate but still require tosit the relevant CSCS test. This training includes the CITB Health and Safety test, learning materials and two free re-sit. The training includes the use of a CD-ROM with voice over and mock tests or a Health and Safety workbook with a number of questions and answers. All learners have access to our computers on demand, including an IT tutor and access to a qualified Health and Safety instructor. This person can be emailed, phoned or face to face by appointment for advice, and the opportunity to sit as many mock tests as required.

Once both examinations have been passed lifeSKILLS will then apply for the Green Labourer’s or Skilled Card on behalf of the candidate.

Group course Max 12 participants

The Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) have made changes to obtaining a Green Labourer’s Card. These new requirements were introduced in July 2014 and state that along with the CITB Health, Safety and Environment (HS&E) Test, a QCF qualification (or alternative) must be achieved in order to apply for the Green Labourer’s Card.

Is this right for me?

This REHIS approved course is designed for candidates who wish to work within the Construction Industry and have already successfully completed the CITB Health, Safety & Environment test. The course is delivered within a comfortable professional environment by qualified Health & Safety professionals and is tailored training with a closed book multiple choice test in Centre.

On successful completion of this REHIS Health and Safety award candidates can then apply for their Green Labourer’s Card.

REHIS Health and Safety, CSCS Test and Green Labourer’s Card and one free re-sit One Day plus Self-Study & Test Day - £200.00 Group course Max 12 participants

Overview

The Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) have made changes to obtaining a Green Labourer’s Card. These new requirements were introduced in July 2014 and state that along with the CITB Health, Safety and Environment (HS&E) Test, a QCF qualification (or alternative) must be achieved in order to apply for the Green Labourer’s Card.

Is this right for me?

This REHIS approved course is designed for candidates who wish to work within the Construction Industry. The course is delivered within a comfortable professional environment by qualified Health & Safety professionals and is tailored training with a closed book multiple choice test in Centre.

On successful completion of this REHIS award candidates can then take the next step to booking their CITB Health, Safety & Environment test.

This course includes a 1 day REHIS Health and Safety Course, CITB Test and Green Labourer’s card. This package includes one free resit where required.

FOCUS ON TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT - THE TELL ORGANISATION

The inTELLigent choice The Tell Organisation Ltd, established in 1989, is fast approaching it’s 30th successful year in business as one of Scotland’s premier business-to-business training and development companies. Working in partnership with Skills Development Scotland (SDS) we manage and deliver both Modern Apprenticeships (MAs) and Employability Fund programmes, together with a range of client lead customised short courses.

Our approach to our Account Managed businesses is to ensure they are provided with a ‘one stop shop’ service in the form of providing recruitment & training guidance and advice, including direct support to access a range of suitable funding options available to support the recruitment and training of new employees and developing existing staff members. As an EAL and SEMTA approved centre, we provide MAs in Engineering across central Scotland, in a range of vocational sectors including Engineering Manufacturing, Maintenance, Electronics and Fabrication & Welding. We

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recognise that the time and HR resource required to recruit apprentices can be off putting to businesses. That’s why, as part of our services we undertake the initial sifting of candidates’ applications and undertake Aptitude Testing and initial interviews, to provide our client companies with a short leet of applicants for consideration, who meet their recruitment requirements. We then directly manage and deliver against

the full components of the engineering programme to ensure your apprentices become nationally recognised and accredited engineers. If you are considering recruiting apprentices this year and/or upskilling your existing staff and are looking for the process to be as streamlined as possible, then please contact Christine Doherty at christined@tell.co.uk or Carolyn Johnstone carolynj@tell.co.uk

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Our MBA and Masters programmes are consistently ranked among the best in the UK – and around the world. As 2016 Times Higher Education Business School of the Year within a leading international technological University, we understand the importance of global thinking.

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A partnership for future skills

SQA’s Derek Houston (right) and David Hannah of QA Apprenticeships with QA Apprenticeships’ candidates.

The Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) is working with employers and training providers to meet Scotland’s skills needs and understand key sectoral trends. SQA is supporting businesses and learners across Scotland in an everchanging digital landscape.

Information technology skills specialist QA Apprenticeships became an SQA Approved Centre in 2011, and now delivers SQA qualifications that are relevant to employers and develop the right workplace skills for learners.

These include: • Diplomas in Information Security • Diplomas in Information Technology and Telecommunications • Diplomas in Digital Marketing • Diplomas in Digital Application Support • SVQs in Business and Administration • SVQs in Providing Financial Services • National Progression Awards in PC Passport

Over the years, this partnership has grown and has allowed QA to enhance its performance in Scottish markets and make a significant contribution to the digital skills landscape.

Sponsored by the Scottish Government’s learning directorate, SQA is committed to supporting the Scottish education system.

QA’s Head of Delivery Apprenticeships for Scotland, David Hannah, is delighted with how the working partnership with SQA has evolved:

Our regional managers actively engage with public, private and third sector organisations as well as schools and colleges to ensure Scotland’s qualifications are robust, relevant and respected.

“We work consistently with SQA to deliver a quality solution for our clients and our learners.

The support we receive from our account manager, Derek Houston, is invaluable. He has guided us through SQA’s robust quality assurance processes and ensures we benefit from SQA’s expertise.

SQA qualifications are designed and continually reviewed in partnership with industry experts to foster the workplace skills and experience needed in the real working world to make businesses more competitive and Scotland’s economy more dynamic.

“Some 92% of QA employers say we add value to their business — becoming an SQA Approved Centre has allowed us to increase this value.

Not only do we now deliver a range of SQA qualifications, we also have direct involvement in the development of qualifications.

As Scotland’s national awarding body, we are uniquely placed to support businesses in an everchanging skills landscape — working closely with Skills Development Scotland, local authorities, and other private, public and third sector organisations.

SQA also has centres in other parts of the UK and across the globe. We are recognised by the Office of Qualifications & Examinations Regulation (Ofqual) to deliver qualifications in England, and our international operations include an established programme in China.

“Feedback from our customers highlighted a need for qualifications in digital marketing. We worked closely with Derek, and SQA’s qualifications development teams to get the digital marketing diploma created and credit rated on the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF).

“This qualification is now the key component of a recognised Modern Apprenticeship in digital marketing in Scotland.”

Derek Houston, SQA regional manager for Glasgow, has helped build this partnership with QA, and has regular involvement with employers and key stakeholders in the information and communications technology (ICT) and digital sectors: “In 2016, I worked with Skills Development Scotland to engage with employers, addressing issues affecting the ICT and digital sectors. This resulted in the formation of the Tech Industry Advisory Board (TIAB), which aims to shape the future of qualifications for ICT and digital sectors, by encouraging collaboration between public and private sector organisations.

“This group is taking big steps in achieving this – with certain members involved in the development of Higher National Certificates (HNCs), Higher National Diplomas (HNDs), and Professional Development Awards (PDAs) in Cyber Security.

“SQA is delighted to be working in partnership with QA Apprenticeships. This partnership can be replicated anywhere across a range of sectors.

“Our dedicated team of regional managers and business development consultants are ready to work with employers across Scotland to ensure we are meeting future skills needs.”

QA Apprenticeships QA Apprenticeships is a provider of information technology (IT) and business apprenticeships. With 1,000 candidates across Scotland, it supports employers and provide award-winning apprenticeship programmes.

QA has more than 30 years’ experience in IT training, and develops apprenticeships that deliver for its client-base of employers across both Scotland and England, with offices in Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Aberdeen.

To find out more about SQA’s business development team, visit www.sqa.org.uk/businessdevelopment email mycentre@sqa.org.uk or call 0303 333 0330

FOCUS ON TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT - APPRENTICESHIPS

Scottish Apprenticeship Week 2018

Employers are encouraged to get involved with Scottish Apprenticeship Week 2018 which will run from Monday 5th to Friday 9th March.

The campaign celebrates the benefits apprenticeships bring to businesses, individuals and the economy.

get paid and get qualified to develop their careers and the support from employers who have invested in them.

Events and activity will be taking place across Scotland, from Shetland to the Borders, showcasing the successes of apprentices who have chosen to get a job,

The week is coordinated by national skills body, Skills Development Scotland, and is backed by employers from family firms to global businesses.

Invest in your company’s future - for free!

Graduate Apprenticeships offer learn while you earn degrees focused on work-based and work-relevant learning.

Apprenticeships are open to existing employees and new recruits - and all apprenticeships are fully funded, so no programme fees for you or the apprentice!

Our 7 programmes are designed around the needs of industry to help your business grow: Engineering Design and Manufacture IT Software Development for Business IT Management for Business Civil Engineering Built Environment Business Management Business Management (Financial Services)

Become a partner today. www.hw.ac.uk/ga ga@hw.ac.uk

Heriot-Watt has a reputation for producing pragmatic “can do” graduates.

Paul Garnham, Campus Ambassador, Shell

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FOCUS ON TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT - APPRENTICESHIPS

Apprentices are a great way for employers to source new talent, while embracing equality and diversity will open up new opportunities to grow as a business.

Apprenticeships are designed to meet the needs of industry and help businesses grow.

Because they learn through experience, apprentices develop and refine their new skills to suit the business they are working in and the customers they serve.

As well as hiring new people, employers can use apprenticeships to upskill existing staff. So not only do employers get engaged, motivated and more productive employees, the business has staff it needs to grow.

There are more than 25,500 new Modern Apprenticeship opportunities across Scotland each year, with over 80 different types available in hundreds of jobs.

From financial services and healthcare to construction and IT, each apprenticeship is developed by industry to suit their needs.

This means that apprentices can build valuable work experience from day-one and gain an accredited qualification which is recognised by industry.

Not only do apprentices bring fresh ideas to the business, learning on the job means they get to know the business inside out and can apply their learning right away.

New Foundation Apprenticeships mean young people can also now start a Modern Apprenticeship at school and employers can prepare future employees for the world of work.

With a Foundation Apprenticeship pupils in S5 can complete elements of a Modern Apprenticeship alongside their other studies, such as Highers or Advanced Highers.

Foundation Apprenticeships take two years to complete with pupils spending part of the week out of school, getting handson experience at college and with a local employer in their chosen industry.

With a Foundation Apprenticeship under their belt they leave school with an industryrecognised qualification which is set at SCQF level 6 (the same level as a Higher).

As well as gaining their qualification, Foundation Apprentices develop the soft skills – like time management, teamwork and communication – that come from quality work experience. This means they’re better prepared for the workplace when they leave school.

Foundation Apprenticeships provide an opportunity for employers to spot talented, motivated pupils who could become future employees.

work based learning opportunities up to Master’s degree level for employees.

Created in partnership with industry and the further and higher education sector, these apprenticeships combine academic knowledge with skills development to enable participants to become more effective and productive in the workplace.

As they are in continuing employment, apprentices can directly apply their academic learning to real-life situations, all the while earning a salary. For employers, they are a great way to develop existing staff who can work towards a degree without having to take time off.

Graduate Level Apprentices are able to access the same learning opportunities as those who go down the traditional route of direct entry into college or university and can progress to the highest level of professional qualifications with a range of entry and exit points from a Higher National Diploma (SCQF level 8)) to a Master’s degree (SCQF level 11).

Find out more and get ideas at www.scottishapprenticeshipweek.com

New Graduate Level Apprenticeships provide

Your Total Event Solution Conference and meeting facilities for up to 300 delegates 25 meeting & break-out rooms PC Training Suite Voting system and virtual presenter software Video Conference and PC training suites Free parking and free wifi Close to train station and bus links Conveniently located just off junction 3 of the M90

To dicuss your event in detail, call us now on 0344 248 0142 or email sales@carnegieconferencecentre.co.uk Carnegie Conference Centre, Halbeath Road, Dunfermline KY11 8DY www.carnegieconferencecentre.co.uk Business Scotland

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MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Business leaders welcome National Manufacturing Institute for Scotland to Renfrewshire Renfrewshire’s business community has welcomed the news that Scotland’s National Manufacturing Institute for Scotland (NMIS) will be established in Renfrewshire.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon yesterday (Monday 11 December) announced the industry-led institute will be built on Abbotsinch Road, next to Glasgow Airport, and will become the anchor tenant of a new 130-acre business and manufacturing innovation district in Renfrewshire.

A collaborative project between the Scottish Government and national skills

Choosing Renfrewshire as the base for the National Manufacturing Institute for Scotland is a clear indication of the area’s potential to be a leading light in the global manufacturing sector.

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and enterprise agencies together with the University of Strathclyde and Renfrewshire Council, the Institute will bring together skills, expertise, research and innovation to attract investment and develop Scotland into a global leader in advanced manufacturing.

The enabling infrastructure of roads, bridges, cycleways and pedestrian routes are being delivered by Renfrewshire Council through the £39.1million Glasgow Airport Investment Area project, funded through the Glasgow City Region City Deal.

Chair of Renfrewshire’s Economic Leadership Panel, Audrey Cumberford, feels the new institute will allow Renfrewshire to realise its economic potential.

She said: “Choosing Renfrewshire as the base for the National Manufacturing Institute for Scotland is a clear indication of the area’s potential to be a leading light in the global manufacturing sector.

“The levels of private investment this could bring to Renfrewshire cannot be underestimated and this will provide a substantial boost to the area’s economic growth.

“The investment, combined with the significant improvement to infrastructure in the area, will be a key contributor in making Renfrewshire a more attractive, vibrant and

sustainable place to live, work, visit and invest in.”

Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce Chief Executive, Bob Grant, has also welcomed the announcement citing the promise of thousands of new jobs coming into the area.

He said: “It is fantastic that Renfrewshire has been chosen as the home for the National Manufacturing Institute for Scotland and it is recognition of our growing position within the international manufacturing sector.

“Thousands of highly-skilled jobs are set to be created across the next 20 years in a boost to employment across the area, while also providing an opportunity to inspire young people into an exciting and rewarding career within the industry.

“New and existing businesses in the area will feel the benefit of the increase in skilled workers in Renfrewshire, as well as the expertise and technological advances the institute brings, as it aims to allow Scotland to compete globally in manufacturing.”

The announcement builds on the recent development of the £8.9million Lightweight Manufacturing Centre, set to open in May 2018 at the Doosan Babcock site in Westway, Renfrew.

The centre will develop new manufacturing processes for lightweight materials for the aerospace and automotive industries.

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

ROCCOs celebrate success A capacity crowd of 470 people watched 16 awards presented at the ROCCO’s on Friday 17th November at the Normandy Hotel, Renfrew - the annual business awards of Renfrewshire Chamber. The area’s premier business event, now in its fourteenth year was sponsored by Paisley 2021 for UK City of Culture. Chamber President Tom Johnston gave a warm welcome to the audience and highlighted the chamber’s successes in the last 12 months.

He emphasised the exciting times ahead for the Renfrewshire economy with record levels of investment planned and the opportunity to develop the area’s tourism offer, particularly if Paisley wins City of Culture in 2021. Deputy Council Leader Jim Paterson gave the main sponsor address and thanked the 200+ companies who have formally backed the bid and the 13 private sector organisations who have pledged over a quarter of a million pounds to support the run up to 2021 should the bid be successful. He urged the business community to continue showing their support as the final decision is now only weeks away.

The crowd was well entertained by three outstanding performances. Two of the acts, The Highway Chilé and Mandulu & Hepzibah also feature on the Paisley 2021 Album produced by chamber member and Rocco finalist Brick Lane Studios. Every guest received a free copy on the night courtesy of main sponsor Paisley 2021. Our third Act Hollie Robinson returned after a year’s break to wow the crowd fresh from being crowned the winner in Paisley’s got Talent 2017.

Rocco favourite Fred MacAulay hosted and was blown away by the talent of all three acts. The ROCCO raffle raised £8,000 for local charities and good causes with main beneficiaries Accord Hospice and Renfrewshire’s ‘Well, Well!’ Partnership with RAMH, Star Project, ENGAGE, Create Paisley and the 2021 team supporting the Mental Health Arts Festival (Year of Young People 2018).

The new Rocco Twitter Wall proved great fun for all the guests and saw #2017Rocco trending on the night.

The Awards ROCCO Award for Excellence in Customer Services – Sponsored by Scottish Leather Group Winner – Sarah-Lou Beauty

ROCCO Award for Excellence in Manufacturing – Sponsored by DYW West Winner- Diageo Plc ROCCO Award for International Trade – Sponsored by Glasgow Airport Winner – Rolls-Royce Plc ROCCO Award for Invest in Renfrewshire – Sponsored by Invest in Renfrewshire Winner – Papamacs Gourmet Kitchen ROCCO Award for Most Promising New Business – Sponsored by Business Gateway Winner – Kenneth Keegan Independent Funeral Directors ROCCO Award for Renfrewshire’s Favourite Business – Sponsored by Paisley Daily Express Winner – Origins Fitness ROCCO Award for Family Business of the Year – Sponsored by The Malcolm Group Winner – The Jaw Brewery Ltd

ROCCO Award for Enterprise in Education – Sponsored by University of the West of Scotland Winner – Todholm Primary School

ROCCO Award for Young Business Person of the Year – Sponsored by West College Scotland Winner – Adil Khan, Harrods Dry Cleaners

ROCCO Award for Innovation & Technology – Sponsored by Hillington Park Winner – Bolt Learning Ltd

ROCCO Award for Employer of the Year – Sponsored by Rolls-Royce Winner – Clark Contracts Ltd

ROCCO Award for Community Champion – Sponsored by Engage Renfrewshire & Royal Bank of Scotland Winner – StreetStuff ROCCO Award for Outstanding Performing Business <5 FTE – Sponsored by intu Braehead Winner – Angelwax Ltd ROCCO Award for Outstanding Performing Business 5<25 FTE – Sponsored by Renfrewshire Council Winner – Stafffinders ROCCO Award for Outstanding Performing Business >25 FTE – Sponsored by Milne Craig Winner – NCT Leather and WJ & W Lang Ltd ROCCO Award for Business Leader of the Year – Sponsored by DIAGEO Winner – Sara Speirs, Spectrum Service Solutions Ltd Commenting on the awards, Chamber chief executive Bob Grant said “a huge thank you to all our sponsors, those who donated prizes for our raffle and well-deserved congratulations to all the finalists and 16 worthy winners. Our 14th ROCCO was a great success with some saying it was the best yet. Planning for Rocco 2018 is already underway, and we hope to see you enter and attend next year.”

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SOCIAL MEDIA

Thinking outside the box

In my day job, I make regular use of social media for a variety of reasons. Sometimes it’s to engage directly with our members, other times it’s to share the opportunities we have for businesses but most of the time it’s both! The versatility of social media and the instant opportunity to communicate makes this a great tool for any business and organisation.

Will Paterson

Communications & Social Media Executive, Scottish Chambers of Commerce I have always found social media to be a great testing ground for new ideas, either to test-bed our own ideas or to find out what others are doing across the globe.

The international reach of social media is very powerful, aligning it perfectly with the

opportunities that exist across the global Chamber of Commerce Network.

start promoting your business and connect with your customers.

Social media is still seen as a new addition to the marketing and communications arena, and as a result of the evolving and fast-paced nature of social platforms, innovation is key to getting your voice heard and connect with customers. Being innovative doesn’t necessarily mean high-budget, there are a variety of low-cost options that businesses can experiment with.

One quick tip before starting off on your social media journey, is to check what your competitors are doing - not just local, look at global equivalents and see how they are communicating with customers. This is a great way to immediately see what others are doing but also, what things to avoid!

From social media scheduling tools, to graphic design apps to movie makers, there is a whole host of apps that can be used to

For any advice on using social media, you can reach out to Will Paterson on wpaterson@scottishchambers.org.uk

From social media scheduling tools, to graphic design apps to movie makers, there is a whole host of apps that can be used to start promoting your business and connect with your customers.

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OPEN CRM

Need some easy GDPR wins?

The preparation for GDPR is going to be time consuming and potentially costly for many businesses, but are there some easy wins for you and your company?

GDPR is the General Data Protection Regulation, a collection of stringent new data protection laws that are going to fundamentally change the way companies do business.

Helping companies prepare their data and their data processing procedures is a big money maker at the minute as there are just so many things that businesses need to consider.

It’s a fact that all businesses are going to need to carry out an initial risk assessment, but for now I don’t want to suggest that preparing for GDPR is easy, but there are some simple things that you can do as a business to give you a few easy wins:

Merging Duplicates One of the key parts of GDPR is making sure you are holding the correct data on a given person. If you have two or more instances relating to a single person there is a much higher chance that one or more of these will be out of date.

So do what you can to combine all these duplicates into a single record for that person. It will be easier to keep everything up to date and you’ll be able to fulfil you’re other GDPR obligations much more easily.

Checking for Outdated Data Speaking of keeping data tidy and up-todate, one of the other big ticket items in GDPR is not holding onto data you don’t need any more.

Go through your old spreadsheets and systems, look for data that you a) don’t need and b) aren’t even sure it is correct anymore (that’s a really big one). Provided you really really really REALLY don’t need this information for your financial and/or legal requirements, get rid of it.

Once GDPR comes into effect, you really don’t want to be holding onto old personal data.

Standardising your Data This is a bit of an odd one, but is equally useful in reporting on the data you hold and making sure you are GDPR compliant.

If you use a particular field or column to categorise your data, saying whether someone is a customer or not for example, take the time to go through and make sure you are using the same wording for this information.

So using the example of a list of your customers, if you refer to them as

“customers”, “customees” (because typos happen to everyone), “clients, “current customer”, and “current clients”, finding the information you need is quite a challenge.

I always advise people to standardise their data, not just because of GDPR, but just because it makes your life easier in the end.

Get Consent Here’s one that’s been making the news whenever people talk about the changes GDPR is going to be bringing in. Going forward, you must have explicit consent for data processing, including sending out any marketing emails or other communications.

This could take a while for a lot of businesses. So my advice: get started. Now! Contact your customers and ask them if they would like to receive marketing emails. Take notes and make a record of their agreement, disagreement, and the date.

But get started on it now because it will take time, maybe start on a short list or the simplest type of consent you require.

And then there’s the big stuff…

You’ll be able to start documenting your data processes (if you haven’t already) and sort out your data retention tools. If you’re holding sensitive information you can get the access and protection of this data ironed out to meet your requirements.

There are a lot of moving parts, as they say, when it comes to GDPR compliance. But there are some smaller things you can do right now to get a jump start on the whole process, it’s certainly worth getting started.

To talk to a member of OpenCRM team about how CRM software can benefit your brand, just call 01748 473000 or visit the website: www.opencrm.co.uk

Graham Anderson, is the CEO and founder of OpenCRM, one of the UK’s leading customer relationship management systems.

Once you’ve sorted out the smaller tasks and made a start on the medium tasks, you can get into the bigger work you’re going to need to do to prepare for GDPR.

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CHAMBER NEWS

Diversity – the key to success The evidence is clear: companies that attract and develop a more diverse workforce perform better than their peers. With the world moving at an unprecedented pace - politically, culturally, socially and economically - there has never been a more important time for companies to expand the diversity of their workforce.

Charandeep Singh

Head of External Relations, Scottish Chambers of Commerce

The consultants McKinsey (2015) reported that those companies in the top quartile for gender diversity were 15% more likely to produce better returns than their peers.

Extending this further, those companies in the top quartile for racial and ethnic diversity were 35% more likely to earn more than their respective industry medians.

That is just the business case of course. The moral case is no less compelling: recognition that every person, regardless of their ethnicity or background should be able to fulfil their potential and contribute to society.

Even in the UK which has long been a champion of equality, fairness and transparency, barriers still exist. Let’s take BME employees as an example. From entry level to board level, these individuals are not reaching their full potential. From a moral perspective, we are losing out on the perspective, talent and creativity of individuals from a BME background, and economically it’s a lose-lose situation.

In fact, in Baroness McGregor-Smith’s independent review Race in the Workplace (2017) it is estimated, that the potential benefit to the UK economy if we had full representation of BME individuals across the labour market, through improved participation and progression, would be £24 billion a year, representing 1.3% of GDP. In Sir John Parker’s Beyond One by 2021 review into board-level diversity (2016), he recognises that the UK’s largest companies are failing to promote enough ethnic minority employees to top executive positions.

Sir John outlines that many boardrooms are unrepresentative of their workforce, supply chains and customer bases, and implementation of new structures to help promote ethnic minority employees to top positions are needed, going as far as advocating positive discrimination to help build a pipeline of board-capable candidates, through the use of mentorship programmes.

One thing is for sure - this is not an easy conversation. Talking about race or the

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© PR Week/Haymarket

representative nature of our workforce or board is a bold move in itself. But there are practical steps that business can take to start addressing the gaps and moving towards a more productive and inclusive workforce that supports company growth.

Mentoring is one very powerful step that companies and top executives can initiate immediately. It’s an opportunity for malleable talent to expand their network and learn from the experience of those at the top and to be at the “coal-face” of decisionmaking structures. In my own career, I have a strong network of mentors, who provide advice and guidance about the world of business and how to navigate challenges in strategy, communications and commercial relationships.

I was delighted to be asked to join the new PR Week UK/BME PR Pros mentoring

scheme. The first of its kind in the UK specifically designed to support young talent in the PR and Communications industry, one which has lacked diversity in the workforce and at the highest levels. It’s a much needed scheme, set up by PR professionals, and it serves as a practical example about the role we can all play to shift the dial on creating an inclusive and diverse workforce.

To keep pace with the speed of change and for companies to be able to compete globally and to thrive, it is more important than ever to nurture existing talent and expand the pool and diversity of individuals in the workforce. Everyone wins if talent is nurtured and rewarded purely on the basis of attitude and performance.

For more information, visit www.bmeprpros.co.uk

CHAMBER NEWS

Business optimism growing but recruitment and raw material costs pose challenge

Shane Taylor

Business Intelligence Executive, Scottish Chambers of Commerce

As part of the Chamber Network’s regular intelligence gathering, the Quarterly Economic Indicator, run in partnership with the University of Strathclyde’s Fraser of Allander Institute, monitors the pulse of the economy and business sentiment.

The Economic Indicator focuses on five key sectors: Construction, Financial and Business Services, Manufacturing, Tourism and Retail.

The survey highlighted the continual resilience of the Scottish economy, with the retail sector bucking the trend of several challenging quarters to show signs of positivity in the last quarter of the year, and growing optimism among financial and business services and manufacturing.

The crucial fourth quarter provided some much needed respite from challenging conditions for the retail sector, with financial KPIs such as sales and cashflow significantly more positive for retail than early 2017.

In contrast, the tourism sector, which had been a stand out performer in the third quarter, buoyed by exchange rate effects, was more subdued throughout the fourth

quarter, which is in line with seasonal trends observed throughout our tourism data. Tourism firms continued to highlight business rates as their key concern, an area which remains a key priority for the Chamber Network.

The Financial and Business Services sector (which includes Oil and Gas) also displayed encouraging results, with sales and profitability figures rising to their highest levels for several years. Expectations were also high for 2018, however services firms noted taxation as a key concern, with over 40% of firms suggesting this may impact on their future plans. Investment levels were also somewhat below trend moving into 2018.

Linking in to our third quarter research, and ONS data, recruitment difficulties continue to sit at record highs for many of our sectors, including manufacturing and financial and business services.

Neil Amner, Chair of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce Network’s Economic Advisory Group, said: “Recruitment difficulties have continued to worsen for a number of sectors, particularly manufacturing, tourism and financial and business services, with the latter two sectors close to the highest levels ever measured in the survey.

“Many sectors are continuing to invest in training in an attempt to retain and upskill their existing staff, but it is clear that businesses are finding it challenging to fill

vacancies. This continues to emphasise the need for Government to continue investing in our talent and skills base through initiatives including Developing the Young Workforce and Foundation Apprenticeships. In addition the need for a practical immigration policy to arise from the Brexit negotiations, which puts business first, is made even more critical by these conditions.”

Material costs were also cited as a major concern, impacting prices across all of our business sectors. The manufacturing industry in particular raised significant concerns, with 87% of surveyed businesses anxious about the rising costs of raw materials, and the impact this would have on their ability to maintain competitiveness.

The evidence and insight provided by Chamber members was invaluable in our efforts to represent the Scottish business community. As just one example, the data collected around recruitment difficulties was used to inform our written and oral evidence to the Finance and Constitution Committee, as part of the scrutiny of the Scottish Government’s draft budget.

Fieldwork for the Q1 2018 Quarterly Economic Indicator will begin in midFebruary. To ensure the voice of your business is heard at a national level, get in touch with Shane Taylor by emailing staylor@scottishchambers.org.uk to join our survey mailing list and contribute to our economic analysis.

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EXPANDING SCOTTISH BUSINESS CONNECTIONS TO CHINA

Expanding Scottish business connections to China The Scottish Chambers of Commerce Network will be leading a cross-sector trade delegation to China between 14th – 21st April 2018. The trade delegation will visit Bejing, Yantai & Jinan in the Shangdong province which has been identified by the Chamber Network for its untapped trade potential.

The Shandong province is one of the wealthiest in China, with 100 million people in a province that, like Scotland, excels at manufacturing, energy both oil/ gas and renewable, financial services, agriculture, food and drink and tourism, it’s a natural match for Scotland.

As a nation, Scotland currently produces exports of about £79Bn. Of this, roughly £13Bn goes to the European Union, £17Bn to the Rest of the World and £49Bn is with the rest of the UK. As a country, there is so much more capacity to trade and export and we must look beyond the UK & Europe.

With the uncertainty of Brexit, we need to better prepare ourselves and create trade

links out with our conventional network.

This is why the Chamber Network has been relentlessly working on strengthening our international connections to give Scottish businesses a platform to go do business and create substantial international B2B connections. With the opening of the Scottish Chambers Network International Trade office in Yantai last April, now is the optimal time for businesses to look at China as their new market.

If you are interested in participating in Trade Mission China please email: events@scottishchambers.org.uk or call us on 0141-444-7500

Trade Mission: China is private-sector led and we are collaborating with our business networks in the UK & China to maximise our business connection opportunities.

We are also working with a range of partners including Scottish Government and Scottish Development International

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INNOVATION IN BUSINESS

TV white space brings connectivity to local communities around Loch Ness

Broadway Partners and Nominet have announced the next phase of the rollout of TV white space (TVWS) broadband technology, with installations beginning around in the Inverness area around Loch Ness, as a tourist hotspot and home to a number of villages and communities with over two thousand households and businesses.

Following the successful launch of TVWSpowered broadband service on the Isle of Arran and the ongoing pilot in Llanarth, Wales, Broadway Partners was approached by the local community around Loch Ness to deliver broadband connectivity, powered

by Nominet’s crucial spectrum database management services.

Operating at lower frequencies than conventional wireless broadband, TVWS radio is also relatively unaffected by physical obstacles such as buildings and trees, making the technology ideal for more challenging, particularly rural environments.

To ensure that TVWS signals do not interfere with TV broadcasts, Nominet’s geo-location database manages spectrum dynamically, telling devices what frequencies they can use and at what power.

Loch Ness is the largest body of fresh

water in Britain and tourism is key to the economy. Whilst some in the largest village of Drumnadrochit have access to high-speed fibre-to-the-cabinet service, the majority of residents and businesses around the loch have poor connectivity, while some receive virtually no usable broadband at all, a problem also for the million or so tourists and outdoor enthusiasts who holiday at the loch every year.

Russell Haworth, CEO of Nominet, said: “It’s amazing that one of the most famous tourist destinations in Britain lags so far behind in the broadband race. The beauty of TV white space lies in its ability to quickly bridge connectivity holes like this and add value directly to the communities and businesses of the area, and boost commerce in the region. We’re delighted to be a part of the project and really look forward to putting our technology to the test.”

Michael Armitage, Founder Director of Broadway Partners said: “This project is particularly exciting because, while virtually everybody has heard of Loch Ness, few outside the area realise just how poorly served it is for broadband. TV white space technology allows us to reach communities and businesses that are beyond the reach of conventional wireless, and we are thrilled to be able to help locals and visitors alike get connected.”

Simon McCalla, CTO of Nominet, said: “Few places represent more of a challenge for deploying fixed broadband infrastructure than the Scottish Highlands, and we’re delighted to be able to put TV white space to the test in this way. It absolutely proves the value of spectrum sharing, which is key to enabling us to deliver this kind of service in a responsive and effective way.”

Few places represent more of a challenge for deploying fixed broadband infrastructure than the Scottish Highlands, and we’re delighted to be able to put TV white space to the test in this way.

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INNOVATION IN BUSINESS

Malt Whisky tasting at the Carmelite Whisky is very much an acquired taste. In many respects, it’s seen as a complicated drink, with each malt’s flavour profile influenced by the land, the barrel, the barley and the water.

Just as I can never really detect overtones of melon and pineapple in a bottle of wine, I had never taken the time to understand and unravel the complexities of Scotland’s national spirit and, deep down, I thought of whisky as a drink for middle aged men.

That opinion changed after spending a couple of hours in the company of the Carmelite’s whisky ambassador, Ros Wardley-Smith and an impressive selection of bottles from the Glen Garioch distillery at Oldmeldrum.

Ros was keen to break down the barriers to enjoying and understanding whisky. This may

be part of the reason for the Carmelite’s ever expanding collection, which includes rare and discontinued malts and why a series of tasting events are planned. We’re taught to nose the glass and how to taste each malt properly and the way smells invoke memories.

While many of those attending the session clearly knew a fair bit about whisky, the session was easy to follow, informative, unintimidating and well-paced for beginners too. Ros is always about on Friday and Saturday as part of her ambassador role, spending time with people explaining and

sharing her passion about the hotel’s whisky collection and tasting events. Ros explained, “I believe there is a whisky for everyone, just a matter of finding it! Everyone should have a wonderful experience at our tasting events.

There’s a great atmosphere and it’s a unique opportunity to try 3-5 different whiskies paired with food”.

Check The Carmelite’s social media pages for upcoming tasting events, which include Gin, Wine, Champagne, Sparkling Wines and Whisky. Exclusive and company tastings can be booked either direct 01224 589101, or email ros@carmelitehotels.com

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MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Smiles all round for Perthshire’s top business It was smiles all round as Blackhills Specialist Dental Clinic lifted Perthshire’s premier business award.

named runner-up to the Business of the Year.

Judges agreed that, despite being relatively new to the area, the country’s leading independent water retailer has created “an incredible impact” and supports a large number of jobs.

The Aberuthven-based sector leader got its teeth into the Perthshire Chamber of Commerce “Business Of The Year 2017” title at a glittering Star Awards ceremony in Crieff Hydro.

Blackhills Specialist Dental Clinic is a purpose-built, state of the art clinic where seven registered specialists - most hospital consultants and senior university academics in the main disciplines of adult dentistry work together.

Blackhills clinical director Paul Stone and his staff celebrated winning both the Business Innovation and the Business Growth category awards before going on to claim the coveted overall trophy.

By seeing patients in this way, Blackhills can deliver the highest quality dental treatment for the complex, demanding cases referred by dental practitioners from all over Scotland and beyond.

A sell-out audience of nearly 400 heard how Blackhills captured the judges’ vote for their “excellence, innovation and expertise” in every aspect of their business.

An elated Paul Stone, who established the business 10 years ago, revealed that the delighted staff attending the awards ceremony were “completely blown away” by their success in two separate categories.

In total, 17 new Business Stars shone at the 2017 showcase, recognising and rewarding outstanding contributions across the whole spectrum of local business – from tourism, food and drink production and independent retailing to e-commerce, sustainability and business growth.

“Then to be announced as Perthshire Business of the Year 2017 was surreal,” he said, “and very humbling. We’re absolutely thrilled. It means a lot to every one of us.”

Chamber Chief Executive, Vicki Unite, said this year’s event - sponsored by Binn Group - had proved “an outstanding celebration of business excellence”.

Chamber President Ross Graham described the winner as a unique concept in private healthcare and praised the 21-strong workforce for the company’s impressive growth and sustainability.

“Blackhills stood out due to the truly groundbreaking work they do,” he said,

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“not just on a local basis, but on a global level. The business demonstrates top-notch customer service, sustained and impressive growth though innovation and is a cuttingedge example of excellence in their field.”

Blairgowrie-based Castle Water, who lifted the Beyond Scotland category award, was

The Chamber again decided to present an Outstanding Achievement Award and this year the honour went to Lucinda Russell.

The Kinross-shire trainer’s “One for Arthur” became the first Scottish winner of the Grand National for nearly 20 years and put the area firmly in the sporting spotlight.

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

The galaxy of shining new Business Stars winning on the night were: Developing the Young Workforce Partnership Award WSP and Kinross High School

Urban Union Commitment to the Community Award Motorvate Therapies

Castle Water Excellence in Food & Drink Produce Award Allan’s Chilli Products

Blackadders Employee of the Year Award Rachael Prothero, Horsecross Arts

The Enchanted Forest Excellence in Tourism & Leisure Award Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery

Farquhar & Son Employer of the Year Award Thorntons

Stagecoach Group Contribution to Sustainability Award Green Tourism

Thorntons Most Inspirational Business Leader Athole McDonald, Kilmac

DWK Office Solutions Beyond Scotland Award Castle Water

Outstanding Achievement Award 2017 Lucinda Russell, Trainer of Grand National Winner 2017 “One For Arthur”

Johnston Carmichael Chartered Accountants Business Growth Award Blackhills Specialist Dental Clinic

Runner-Up Perthshire Business of the Year 2017 Castle Water

Perthshire Advertiser Independent Retailer of the Year Award Precious Sparkle

Perthshire Business of the Year 2017 Blackhills Specialist Dental Clinic

Perth College UHI Apprentice of the Year Award Olivia Pardoe, ConsultingM3 Elevator & Business Gateway Most Promising New Business Award Molke Graham Environmental Services Excellence in Customer Service Award Premier Properties Perth Fairways Excellence in Business Innovation Award Blackhills Specialist Dental Clinic

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CHAMBERCONNECTIONS

CHAMBER CONTACTS

Scottish Chambers of Commerce Strathclyde Business School, 199 Cathedral Street, Glasgow G4 0QU T: 0141 444 750 E: admin@scottishchambers.org.uk President – Tim Allan Chief Executive - Liz Cameron OBE

Dumfries & Galloway Chamber of Commerce

Scottish Chambers of Commerce

Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce The Hub, Exploration Drive Aberdeen Energy Park, Bridge of Don Aberdeen, AB23 8GX T: 01224 343900 E: info@agcc.co.uk www.agcc.co.uk Chief Executive - Russell Borthwick President - John Brebner Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce & Industry The Mezzanine, Glasgow Prestwick International Airport, Prestwick, KA9 2PL T: 01292 678 666 F: 01292 678 667 E: enquiries@ayrshire-chamber.org www.ayrshire-chamber.org Chief Executive - Val Russell President - Graeme McKinstry Cairngorms Business Partnership Ltd Inverdruie House, Inverdruie Aviemore, PH22 1QH T: 01479 780539 E: office@visitcairngorms.com www.visitcairngorms.com Chief Executive - Mark Tate President - Angus McNicol Caithness Chamber of Commerce Naver Business Centre Naver House, Naver Road Thurso, KW14 7QA T: 01847 890076 E: info@caithnesschamber.com www.caithnesschamber.com Chief Executive - Trudy Morris Chairman - Stephen Sutherland

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Hillhead House, The Crichton, Bankend Road Dumfries, DG1 4UQ T: 01387 270866 E: admin@dgchamber.co.uk www.dgchamber.co.uk President – Tom Armstrong Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce Whitecrook Business Centre 78 Whitecrook Street, Clydebank, G81 1QF T: 0141 280 0272 E: admin@dunbartonshirechamber.co.uk www.dunbartonshirechamber.co.uk Chief Executive - Damon Scott President - Stewart Rennie Dundee & Angus Chamber of Commerce Unit 27, City Quay, Camperdown Street Dundee, DD1 3JA T: 01382 228545 F: 01382 228441 E: info@dundeeandanguschamber.co.uk www.dundeeandanguschamber.co.uk Chief Executive - Alison Henderson President - Colin Loveday East Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce Barrhead Foundry Main Street, Barrhead, East Renfrewshire, G78 1SW T: 0141 887 6181 E: info@eastrenchamber.org.uk www.eastrenchamber.org.uk President: John F Hamilton Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce 40 George Street, 2nd floor Edinburgh, EH2 2LE T: 0131 221 2999 F: 0131 261 5056 E: membershipadmin@edinburghchamber.co.uk www.edinburghchamber.co.uk Chief Executive – Liz McAreavey President - Scott Black

Fife Chamber of Commerce Evans Business Centre, 1 Begg Road John Smith Business Park Kirkcaldy, KY2 6HD T: 01592 647740 E: info@fifechamber.co.uk www.fifechamber.co.uk CEO – Alan Mitchell President – Peter Southcott Forth Valley Chamber of Commerce Group (incorporating Stirling Chamber of Commerce) Suite 2, Scion House Stirling University Innovation Park Stirling, FK9 4NF T: 01324 665 500 E: info@forthvalleychamber.co.uk www.forthvalleychamber.com www.stirlingchamber.co.uk Chief Executive – Michelle Cook Chairman – Justin Grace Glasgow Chamber of Commerce 30 George Square, Glasgow, G2 1EQ T: 0141 204 2121 E: chamber@glasgowchamberofcommerce.com www.glasgowchamberofcommerce.com Chief Executive Stuart Patrick President - Jim McHarg Inverclyde Chamber of Commerce Greenock Ocean Terminal Patrick Street, Greenock, PA16 8UU T: 01475 888622 M:07939 272787 E: enquiries@greenockchamber.co.uk www.greenockchamber.co.uk Senior Executive Officer - Margaret Moran President - Linda Scott Inverclyde

Chamber of Commerce

CHAMBER CONTACTS

Inverness Chamber of Commerce Metropolitan House 31-33 High Street, Inverness, IV1 1HT T: 01463 718 131 E: info@inverness-chamber.co.uk www.inverness-chamber.co.uk Chief Executive - Stewart Nicol President - Liam Christie Lochaber Chamber of Commerce 15 High Street Fort William, PH33 6DH T: 01397 705 765 E: membership@lochaberchamber.co.uk www.lochaberchamber.co.uk Chairman - Bruno Berardelli Chief Executive - Lesley Benfield Midlothian & East Lothian Chamber of Commerce Moulsdale House, Edinburgh College 24d Milton Road East, Edinburgh, EH15 2PP T: 0131 603 5043 E: dita@thebusinesspartnership.org.uk www.melcc.org.uk Joint Chief Executives - George Archibald and Keith Barbour Moray Chamber of Commerce Suite 7, Elgin Business Centre Maisondieu Road, Elgin, IV30 1QP T: 01343 543344 E: info@moraychamber.co.uk www.moraychamber.co.uk Chief Executive - Sarah Medcraf Executive Director Margery A McLennan President Carol Stewart

Perthshire Chamber of Commerce Saltire House, 3 Whitefriars Crescent Perth, PH2 0PA T: 01738 448 325 F: 01738 450 402 E: info@perthshirechamber.co.uk www.perthshirechamber.co.uk Chief Executive - Vicki Unite President - Ross Graham

Scottish Chambers of Commerce Scottish Chambers of Commerce Strathclyde Business School 199 Cathedral Street, Glasgow, G4 0QU T: 0141 444 7500 E: admin@scottishchambers.org.uk www.scottishchambers.org.uk @ScotChambers Like us on Facebook

Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce Bute Court, St Andrews Drive Glasgow Airport Paisley, PA3 2SW T: 0141 847 5450 F: 0141 847 5499 E: info@renfrewshirechamber.com www.renfrewshirechamber.com Chief Executive â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Bob Grant President â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Tom Johnston

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Scottish Borders Chamber of Commerce Academy House, Shedden Park Road Kelso, TD5 7AL T: 07771 865 758 E: communications@borderschamber.com www.borderschamber.com Convenor - Jack Clark Vice Convenor - Bruce Simpson West Lothian Chamber of Commerce Alba Centre, Alba Business Park Rosebank, Livingston, EH54 7EG T: 01506 414808 E: chamber@wlchamber.com www.wlchamber.com Chief Executive Linda Scott President Billy MacLeod

Advertising John Neilson Commercial Director Telephone 07813 874970 john.neilson@distinctivegroup.co.uk This publication is also available as an ebook at: www.issuu.com/distinctivepublishing

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Distinctive Publishing or Scottish Chambers of Commerce 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 Scottish Chambers of Commerce.

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MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Sandstone Press, the international literary publisher in the highlands In 2011, The Testament of Jessie Lamb by Jane Rogers was longlisted for the Man Booker Prize. At that time, the idea of a business such as Sandstone, located in the Highlands, was so outlandish that we were asked for interviews by news outlets in countries across the world.

By 2013, when we had a similar success with The Marrying of Chani Kaufman by Eve Harris, we were so sufficiently established that attention moved from us to the author and the book itself. Sandstone Press had become an accepted part of the publishing landscape.

In 2017 we added the Betty Trask Prize for fiction to a list of many awards that includes the Petrona Prize for translated Scandinavian crime and the Saltire Society Scottish Publisher of the Year.

The Sky Atlantic series, Babylon Berlin, now a popular and prestigious international success, is an adaptation of the German language bestsellers by Volker Kutscher, published by Kiepenheuer & Witsch in Cologne. Sandstone Press is the English language publisher, and has sold rights to Picador USA and Allen & Unwin in Australia, and audio rights to Audible for worldwide distribution. The translation process had financial support from the Goethe Institut in London and XPONorth here in the Highlands.

We value such successes but never forget that we serve a wide reading public across the world.

Sandstone Press publishes between twenty-five and thirty new titles each year. At least two will be translations of overseas successes. Many of our non-fiction titles are inspired by our Highland environment: mountaineering, conservation, hill running and so on. We also publish literary biography, including definitive biographies of Edwin Morgan and Josephine Tey, the Tey biography having been written by Inverness author Jennifer Morag Henderson. We also publish A Broken Hallelujah

by Liel Leibovitz, a significant book on Leonard Cohen, and the autobiography of Ronnie Browne of The Corries.

We take pride in maintaining the high quality of our cover design and production values, while actively extending the range of our list and increasing our establishment. In the past year we have taken on new premises and new staff, while strengthening our network of connections, not least being our own Inverness Chamber of Commerce.

The worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s view of Scotland is changing and by operating internationally as effectively as we do, from our base in Dingwall, we bring positive attention to the Highlands and Islands, and to the country, and make a significant contribution to the economies of both.

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