Falkirk for Business

INcommerce

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Issue 5 • June 2012

www.falkirkforbusiness.org Supplement Inside

smart design instant results graphic design for print and digital media I brochures and leaflets I annual and corporate reports corporate identity and branding I newsletters and magazines I packaging I exhibitions and signage copywriting I websites I posters and banners I marketing and advertising I and much more...

eden

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t the a 6 1 tand ss Fair S n e o t us k Busin i s i V ir Falk

Falkirk Business Exhibition.................... 4-5 Falkirk leads the way..................................... 6 STEP Changes.............................................. 8 What’s the Big Idea? Synergy.................. 8 Ceteris............................................................ 9

Welcome

Falkirk for Business Launch Exclusive Directors’ Club........................ 12 Edinmore....and More...and More........... 14 New Business Healthcheck Service..... 14 £30,000 Prize Fund For Best New Consortium Business Ideas.................... 15 Funds For Business................................... 16 My Future’s in Falkirk........................19-26 Falkirk’s Leading IT Company Celebrates Its 30th Birthday................. 27 Bytemark.....................................................29 A Step By Step Roadmap for Success for your Business......................30 Investing in Falkirk… By Design.............. 34

W

elcome to the latest edition of our InCommerce magazine. As some of you will recall I started as CEO in January of this year and cannot believe we are already in June.

We have been exceptionally busy over the last few months supporting local businesses and we have had some notable success stories which are fabulous for our local economy.

Courses for work are just the job.........35

Navigating Turbulent Economic Times.........................................39 The Business Panel+.................................40 Business Gateway..................................... 42

For advertising contact D-Tech, T: 01389 736000 E: sales@incommerce.biz

As many of you will know our services are currently under review and your feedback would be most welcome as we strive to improve our services, and support more and more local businesses.

Our next major event is the Business Exhibition on the 15th June at Falkirk Town Hall and the interest is already proving very strong. We would be delighted if you could take some time out and attend, as these events are about supporting you and helping you to meet and do business with other local companies!

I look forward to meeting you at Falkirk Town Hall and the Falkirk for Business team will be there to help you with any queries about starting or developing your business. In the meantime if we can help you in any way please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Wishing you every success.

For editorial enquiries contact the Editor, Michelle McKearnon T: 01324 66 55 00 E: Michelle.McKearnon@falkirkforbusiness.org Publisher: D-Tech Distribution: D-Tech Distribution InCommerce is published by D-Tech Graphic Design & Print Ltd. Unit 14, Birch Road, Broadmeadow Industrial Estate G82 2RE. T: 01389 736000.

F: 01389 736002. E: info@dtechuk.com. W: www.dtechuk.com Edited by Falkirk for Business, The Falkirk Stadium, 4 Stadium Way, Falkirk, FK2 9EE T: 01324 66 55 00 F: 01324 61 76 37 E: info@falkirkforbusiness.org W: www.falkirkforbusiness.org InCommerce is fully protected by copyright and nothing may be printed wholly or in part without the written permission of the publishers. The proprietors of this magazine are publishers and not agents, or sub-agents of those who advertise therein. They cannot be held liable for any loss suffered as a result of information gained from this publication.

The views expressed by authors of articles published in this magazine are solely those of the author and are not necessarily the views of or shared by the editor, nor the publisher or the directors, shareholders and/or employees of InCommerce Ltd or D-Tech Graphic Design & Print Ltd.

David

Issue 5 • June 2012

Supporting businesses in Falkirk to move towards Zero Waste................ 37

The Falkirk forBusiness Magazine

Contents

Welcome........................................................ 3

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Issue 5 • June 2012

The Falkirk forBusiness Magazine 4

Where Business Does Business What is the most important event taking place in the UK in 2012? No, it’s not the Olympics or the Diamond Jubilee - it has to be the Falkirk Business Exhibition!

It’s that time of year again, when Central Scotland’s biggest Business to Business event takes place at Falkirk Town Hall on June 15th.

As soon as Exhibition 2011 closed its doors on a successful day, planning got underway to ensure that 2012 would be bigger and even better than before as the event celebrates its 5th year in existence. Falkirk for Business and event coordinators Stark Events, met with a focus group of exhibitors and delegates to analyse feedback and take on board suggestions for 2012.

Regular exhibitors will notice lots of changes for this year: the Exhibition will take place throughout the entire Town Hall, using both the Main and the Lesser Hall as well as all other available rooms and spaces. The main exhibition will be downstairs as always, and exhibition stands are now sold out.

Upstairs will be a combination of breakout space for meetings, catering facilities and a Meet the Expert area where you can book one-to-one sessions with a range of business experts.

We are delighted this year to be working in partnership with Forth Valley College Catering Department, whose students will be providing hot meals and snacks on the day. Having already sampled their wares, we can assure you that you will be very well fed! Diane Creed, Head of Hospitality and Salon Services at Forth Valley commented, “Forth Valley College is delighted to be supporting the Falkirk Business Exhibition 2012. catering@thecampus is delighted to cater for the business community. In this challenging economic time every effort must be made to support local business and through our industry leading business model, our students will be able to undertake a ‘real life’ commercial experience which will equip them with the best of skills for their future.”

Our exciting seminar programme will be running throughout the day during the Exhibition and we are really looking forward to hearing from our speakers Stuart Corrigan of Vanguard Scotland, Louise Cowie from Forth Valley College and Craig McGill of Contently Managed, who will be leading sessions on Marketing, Training and Social Media. There will also be an opportunity to take part in a speed networking session led by 4Networking to enable you to meet as many new contacts as possible.

To ensure there is a chance to take a break from the buzz of the main exhibition areas on the day, we have also increased the number of networking spaces around the halls, and there will be a chill-out coffee area in the downstairs lounge, with Jack Marshall of Tapside kindly providing his delicious coffee to keep up the energy levels.

We are looking forward to seeing as many people as possible at the Exhibition on the day – there will be free parking on-site for exhibitors and at the Meek’s Road car park just a few minutes away, so no excuse for not dropping in to this fabulous networking event.

See you there!

The Falkirk forBusiness Magazine

To register as a visitor and gain FREE entry on the day please visit the website www.falkirkbusinessexhibition.co.uk, where you will find more details on the seminar programme and all the latest news, or follow us on Twitter @FforB to get up to the minute information on exhibitors and any last minute changes. You can also find more information via our media partners The Falkirk Herald and Central FM – our thanks to them for their continued support.

Issue 5 • June 2012

Finally, our public sector partners from various Falkirk Council departments will be on hand during the day delivering business advice and dealing with any queries you might have on issues such as environmental legislation, planning, procurement and training.

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Falkirk leads the way Westminster looks to Falkirk for business best practice George Stevenson, the Chairman of Falkirk for Business was surprised to find a letter from the Cabinet Office landing on his doormat last month, but surprise turned to delight when he read the contents.

The Cities Policy Unit in the Cabinet Office is exploring how regions and Local Enterprise Partnerships can play a leading role in supporting enterprise and business growth across the UK. In the course of their research they discovered the “innovative model” which is in place between Falkirk Council and Falkirk for Business to encourage new enterprise and growth in existing local businesses. The senior civil servant leading the research commented “In particular I was interested in how you have put in place devolved governance structures that enable a genuinely business led approach”.

The Falkirk forBusiness Magazine

Issue 5 • June 2012

He goes on to express his interest in having some more information on “..how the Council might intend to devolve more responsibility in the economic development space to Falkirk for Business or similar models in the future..” and concludes “I am interested to understand how in Falkirk you have made this possible”.

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David Gardiner, C.E.O of Falkirk for Business said, “It is absolutely fantastic that the Falkirk area has been recognised as best practice on a UK scale by the Cabinet Office. This national recognition is down to positive private/public sector relationship between Falkirk for Business and Falkirk Council. It is one which we know that the business community wishes to see remain and further support our local community.

The board of Falkirk for Business and staff are the commercial and independent connection to the local businesses providing impartial advice which is recognised as the key element in best value and provision in supporting new enterprise and indigenous business growth.

We should recognise what we have is an excellent provision of support and ensure that we continue to listen to our local businesses and be able to respond swiftly to their changing needs.”

Two years ago, Falkirk Council picked up the Most Enterprising Place in Scotland award in recognition of their partnership work with Falkirk for Business, and it looks as if there is still major interest in other areas as to the successes being notched up here.

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STEP Changes STEP has been at the heart of the Forth Valley economic development community for nearly thirty years. As an organisation, STEP is acutely aware of the changing economic conditions and their impact on local businesses. Introducing a few changes of their own, STEP, led by Executive Director, Gordon Bell and with the support of local company, Vizibility, has undergone a major re-branding and marketing communications exercise.

The new identity features on STEP’s refreshed website which aims to make it easier for local businesses to quickly find out what support and help STEP can provide; whether it’s business advice, help finding business premises, training or venue hire.

Before joining STEP, Gordon, a qualified accountant, led the Scottish Manufacturing Advisory Service (SMAS). He is focused on making sure STEP plays an ever increasing role in supporting businesses across Stirling to get started, grow and find success.

What’s the Big Idea? Synergy

In addition to a new brand, the facilities at John Player Building, Stirling Enterprise Park have also had a facelift. STEP has upgraded meeting and conference rooms and has introduced a variety of office options, including mail master, a full-time business address, daily desks and shared spaces.

Imagine a merger between two great old-time jazz bands – say, Count Basie and Duke Ellington.

What would have happened? Well, you’d have a fair amount of redundancy (one too many bass players), some unwanted competition for key slots (piano especially!), twice the costs and half the revenues, double the noise, and a god-awful sound at the end of it. Sadly, this is not far off the result of many business mergers and acquisitions – which, as we know, are often driven by the aggrandising egos of their leaders rather than functional logic. Yet true synergy – where the whole is more than the sum of the parts – can be found in many collectives: jazz combos, string quartets, project groups and sports teams everywhere. It happens only if people have complementary assets, they give and take and are motivated to co-create. Synergy is not a pretty word but it has deep importance and value, for it embodies a uniquely human gift – the ability to grow by learning, seeing from multiple perspectives, and building upon the ideas, thoughts and products of other independent actors. To achieve this exalted condition you need to be unfettered by status hang-ups, rewards and ego, to care more about the music than your part, and to listen as much as you blow your own horn. No wonder it’s so rare in business.

The Falkirk forBusiness Magazine

Issue 5 • June 2012

To help implement the improved marketing communication and the promotion of new products and services, STEP has recently recruited a Business Development Manager, Daniel MacIntyre. Core to this role will be the development of new commercial training programmes, networking events and bespoke solutions for established businesses.

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STEP has aspirations to develop and grow but recognises that this will be achieved in collaboration with other support services. Organising a programme of specialist advice and training such as a recent Budget Briefing, in partnership with MacFarlane Gray, helps communicate the constantly changing tax system. Hazel Burt, Tax Director explained, “Working in partnership with STEP gives us the opportunity to share our knowledge with a wider audience and raise awareness of the support available from STEP.” With a range of experienced staff, products and services STEP will be invaluable to Forth Valley businesses, especially in supporting our rural Stirlingshire communities as we strive to meet businesses in their day-to-day surroundings so they can access support to take up advice, training or access funding that will create jobs, improve services and working conditions.

Nigel Nicholson, Professor of Organisational Behaviour at the London Business School.

This article reproduced by kind permission of “Management Today” magazine in which it first appeared. www.managementtoday.co.uk

Stirling Enterprise Park John Player Building, Stirling, FK7 7RP reception@stirling-enterprise.co.uk

Ceteris Supporting Business in Clackmannanshire Ceteris Ltd, is a member of the Forth Valley Consortium which delivers, along with Falkirk for Business and Stirling Enterprise (STEP), the Business Gateway contract in Forth Valley.

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Commercial and Industrial Property Training and Business Development Gean House Conference and Wedding Venue

Ceteris’s main, and perhaps, best known activity is its property portfolio. The company has a range of offices and industrial premises throughout Central Scotland. In fact it is the biggest private landlord in Clackmannanshire and aims to provide high quality premises at affordable prices.

We have grown over the years, from operating one business centre with half a dozen employees to running seven centres employing 45 people, and it is a priority to recruit locally wherever possible.

Our office buildings are as varied in appearance, atmosphere and focus as our activities: Alloa Business Centre is very much a hub for new enterprises and SME’s. The building really has a buzz about it and the tenants benefit from forming links not only with each other, but also with the local business support network. Inglewood House, however, is an impressively grand

Ceteris’s Business Support department are constantly on the look out for initiatives to tap into to support business and create employment. Again as part of the Forth Valley Consortium Ceteris delivers a European funded project designed to support businesses to improve their E-commerce and E-trading capabilities. Like Falkirk for Business and STEP, Ceteris also works alongside Job Centre Plus to help new starts through the recently introduced New Enterprise Allowance Scheme. This helps the unemployed investigate self-employment and access a small loan scheme to fund capital equipment.

Our recently launched Enterprise Club (based at Alloa Business Centre and sponsored by Job Centre Plus) welcomes anyone within Forth Valley who is interested in meeting like-minded people to discuss starting and growing a business.

Complimenting all Ceteris’s business efforts is Gean House.

This beautiful listed building (100 years old this year) has a wealth of period features, beautiful rooms and gardens which all add up to an amazing and much sought-after conference venue. In recent years Gean House has been increasingly in demand for weddings and social events and these activities have allowed many more people access to this beautiful historic house.

Ceteris Gean House, Tullibody Road, Alloa, Clackmannanshire, FK10 2EL

Issue 5 • June 2012

Ceteris has 3 main commercial activities which complement each other and benefit hugely from synergy of efforts from all staff. The activities are:

building with extensive public and meeting rooms, attractive to professionals and training organisations and Head Office to a number of thriving organisations.

The Falkirk forBusiness Magazine

Ceteris’s Managing Director, Margaret Mary Rafferty says, “The Consortium has worked well for a number of years. We all deliver the same services within each of our geographical areas - but we are different companies, and although we have similar aims, ie to support local businesses and stimulate economic growth, we each have a different way of achieving this.”

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Have you Heard?

Our Business is Your Business Forth Valley College is one of Scotland’s leading providers of flexible business focussed training with campuses in Alloa, Falkirk and Stirling.

We recently invested £50million in an estates strategy, developing and upgrading across all our campuses, including a new Comp’Ex workshop.

We have built two new state-of-the-art campuses, Alloa opened September 2011 and our new Stirling Campus welcomed its first students in April.

To find out more about any of our courses email biz@forthvalley.ac.uk or visit our website http://business.forthvalley.ac.uk to see our full portfolio of courses.

Forth Valley College ensures the training we provide is industry standard, we are an accredited centre for many national qualifications including: City and Guilds (C&G), JTL (Comp’Ex 01-06 courses) NEBOSH, IOSH, REHIS and First Aid. The College also delivers C & G Introduction to Trainer Skills and the Preparing to teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector programmes and the CIPD and CMI business professional qualifications.

As legislation plays a major part in business functionality, the college delivers compulsory licensing training in areas of Food and Drink and Health and Safety. The College has recently added two new courses to its portfolio which are accredited by the Security Industry Authority (SIA). The SIA is responsible for regulating the private security industry in the UK and we are offering courses on SIA Door Supervision and SIA Security Guarding.

Students gain skills to ‘Stand out from the crowd’ Forth Valley College strives to ensure its learners are equipped with the skills and knowledge to ‘stand out from the crowd’ in a very competitive jobs market.

In achieving this aim the College is one of the key partners in the Scottish Funding Council supported ‘Education into Enterprise (EiE)’ initiative. This aims to create 800 relevant work placement opportunities over three years for higher education students within local businesses, thus ensuring students are equipped with skills to meet the demands of today’s employers.

To date, the College is working with a number of companies who are very complimentary about both the benefits and professionalism of the programme.

If you are an employer with a project but no resource to implement it, get in touch with Forth Valley College in connection with a potential placement opportunity. Local businesswoman Mary Campbell of PackaPouch ™ from Fabulous Inventions Ltd contacted the college in relation to offering placements. Here is Mary’s story.

In 2011 Falkirk Company Fabulous Inventions Ltd was set-up to sell a new innovative product called PackaPouch™. It is a multipurpose hands free carrier and can be used by anyone whilst doing a range of jobs indoors or outdoors including laundry, tidying up, shopping, gardening or even when walking the dog. What makes PackaPouch™ unique is the large, front-facing, waterproof pouch. This is easy to fill and access, and is designed to adjust to and fit your body, ensuring it is comfortable to wear as it spreads the weight of anything you carry.

Mary said: “As a start-up company I received a lot of advice and help from Falkirk for Business and attended many of their formative in- house courses.

As my business developed from product idea and design into a trading organisation, I realised that I also needed hands-on expertise in the fields

of marketing, advertising, website content, exporting and product visuals.

“I first met Lorna Allison, Forth Valley College’s Education into Enterprise Co-ordinator at the 2011 Falkirk for Business Exhibition. Through working with Lorna to establish my business requirements, I realised I could use the expertise of students looking for subject specific work placements. I now have four open placement requests on the EiE website.

“I am delighted. This progamme allows me to fulfil my business needs, whilst working with some very bright and driven individuals who are in turn gaining relevant and credible work experience. I would certainly recommend this initiative to other employers who have placement opportunities.”

If you are interested in PackaPouch ™ go to www.packapouch.co.uk or contact Mary at mary@fabulousinventions.com If you are interested in offering a placement opportunity or you wish further information on Education into Enterprise contact Forth Valley College EiE Co-ordinator Lorna Allison lorna. allison@forthvalley.ac.uk, call 01324 403283 or check out the EiE website www.educationintoenterprise.org.

OUR BUSINESS IS YOUR BUSINESS

Forth Valley College excels at delivering bespoke training and working in partnership with sector partners and national industries – the college continues to develop in this area of expertise as is highlighted by the Operations Excellence Programme with Alexander Dennis Ltd. ‘Excellence’ Programme Drives Success at Leading Bus Company An innovative business transformation programme has contributed to a dramatic change of fortune at Alexander Dennis Limited (ADL), the UK’s leading bus and coach manufacturer.

In 2009, the Scottish-owned company was facing major challenges as a result of the economic recession however a unique opportunity has since enabled them to make remarkable business improvements - and the company is now more buoyant than ever.

became involved; that there was a constant flow of input and ideas to the process; to encourage and drive positive actions; and to keep the whole process moving forward.

ADL has been delighted with the results. Utilising the skills and expertise of its team has resulted in reduced wastage, downtime, costs, greater efficiency and an overall improvement in business performance. Health and safety performance has improved and many employees have also successfully achieved vocational qualifications.

Euan Cameron, ADL General Manager at Falkirk, says: “We are entering a phase of Operations Excellence that really excites me. As well as the essential gains in terms of improved processes we have an opportunity to develop and improve our own working environment and for employees to gain further qualifications through the VQ system. Murray McMillan and the team at Forth Valley College have worked hard to establish tailor-made methodology and templates to ensure Operational Excellence is here to stay at ADL. We are building strong foundations that will play an important role as the business grows and flourishes in the months and years ahead.”

ADL embarked on an ‘Operations Excellence’ programme after meeting with Forth Valley College to discuss the support and training that might be available to work in conjunction with its company-wide efforts to improve skills training, people development, leadership and continuous quality improvement.

Identifying an opportunity, the College approached the OPL Group Ltd Murray McMillan, to help develop an ‘Operations Excellence’ programme for ADL. They also sought support from Skills Development Scotland and the Scottish Funding Council to secure funding for the project through the PACE (Partnership Action for Continuing Employment) Initiative.

The bid was successful and the company quickly began to see results.

‘Operations Excellence’ is an exciting programme which aims to deliver business success by creating a culture of continuous quality improvement.

The premise behind the programme is engaging with front line workers by providing them with the opportunity to identify issues within the organisation, no matter how big or small, and also helping them develop and implement solutions. This engagement also encourages a sense of ownership and commitment amongst the workforce.

OPL has used this pioneering approach successfully in several industries over the past 12 years with the programme being tailored to fit with individual business operations and cultures.

In the case of ADL, the programme was also closely linked to a Vocational Qualification in Business Improvement Techniques at either Level 2 or 3, which all participants were encouraged to undertake.

In terms of scope, the ‘Operations Excellence’ programme spanned the whole organisation at ADL with involvement from shop floor to management and trade union leaders. Champions were identified to ensure that everyone

Jennifer Henderson, Head of Business Projects FVC said: “We’re delighted with the success of ‘Operations Excellence’. This innovative programme has harnessed the ideas and knowledge of the workforce at ADL to deliver significant benefits for not only the company but also for individuals. It’s about empowering those doing the job and providing them with the opportunity to have a say in their workplace. They should be proud of what they have achieved and we’re thrilled to have played a part in making this happen.”

Forth Valley College and OPL are also currently undertaking an ‘Operations Excellence’ programme with Polimeri Europa UK Ltd in Grangemouth - an integrated energy company operating in the oil, natural gas, and petrochemicals industries.

To find out more about how this type of programme can benefit you, please contact Jennifer Henderson on 01324 403239 or jennifer.henderson@ forthvalley.ac.uk

Forth Valley College is delivering a seminar programme ‘Our Business is Your Business’ at the Falkirk for Business Exhibition why not sign up on the day and see what Forth Valley College can do for you – alternatively visit us on Stand 1.

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David Gardiner, Chief Executive of Falkirk for Business said:

The Falkirk forBusiness Magazine

Issue 5 • June 2012

“Falkirk For Business run numerous seminars, conferences and events for businesses throughout Falkirk, however, we realised there was a gap for a exclusive club where Directors, Managing Directors and Chief Executives from a variety of industries could get together to network, hear insightful presentations and share best practice”.

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For the first event the speaker is Dr Andrew Kelly, a leadership and strategy consultant with The Leadership Factory. Dr Kelly is vastly experienced in designing and delivering leadership development programmes across a wide range of companies and also delivers Scottish Enterprise’s flagship programme Leadership for Growth.

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“At the moment, those at Director level and above don’t have the opportunity to come together and network with other like-minded individuals. The Directors’ Club will fill a much needed void for Falkirk business people.”

The quarterly best practice Directors’ Club is an invitation only event for selected individuals from businesses turning over £1m in the Falkirk area. If you would like further information on the Directors’ Club, please contact Michelle McKearnon on 01324 618962.

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Edinmore.... and More... and More Local Company Hits 100 Employee Milestone www.edinmorecontractsltd.co.uk

A Falkirk based business is celebrating a significant milestone this week; employing its 100th staff member – only six years since launch.

It is a great feeling being able to employ people and know that you’re doing something for your local community, and we’re all looking forward to a successful future in Falkirk.”

Insurance reinstatement contractor; Edinmore Contracts is continuing to go from strength to strength, almost doubling its workforce in the past year and increasing its fleet of vans on the road to an impressive 65.

Edinmore has been supported throughout the process by Falkirk for Business, who provided valuable start up advice and support. Business Growth Advisor Dorothy Henke has been following their success over the years, and is delighted to see a home grown company lead the way in its field.

The latest addition to the team will go a long way to helping the Carronshore-based company achieve its goal to be the contractor of choice by insurers, with the focus very much on developing the business and indeed growing the team.

The Falkirk forBusiness Magazine

Issue 5 • June 2012

Director Clarke Faichnie said: “To have reached one hundred employees is for us, a momentous milestone. We have gone from a two-strong team starting on mainly maintenance work to one hundred skilled and specialist staff offering a one stop service for building repairs and restoration services to the insurance industry.

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Speaking today Dorothy said: “It is very rewarding for us to see a business idea like Edinmore Contracts come to fruition. From a team of two to one hundred employees in such a short space of time is testament to their hard work and innovation. It also highlights the positive success stories coming out of the Falkirk area and what a great place it is to do business.

By nurturing small businesses and creating a supportive business environment, we are succeeding in diversifying and securing the long term sustainability of the local economy.”

New Business Healthcheck Service Falkirk for Business has introduced a new support service to help us work with a more diverse range of clients. We have recognised that there is a significant number of existing businesses in the area that do not qualify for our pipeline/ growth support which we deliver in conjunction with Falkirk Council and Scottish Enterprise.

Many businesses are growing at very low rates or indeed some are not growing at all or are seeing turnover slip back. These businesses are, for a variety of reasons, very important to our economy so we have decided to offer a free healthcheck

from which we will create an action plan to work on over the forthcoming months. Where appropriate, we will assist the business to access additional forms of support that will help with development.

This is a great opportunity to take some time out and look at various aspects of your business with the help of Falkirk for Business.

If this is of interest please call 01324 66 55 00 or email info@falkirkforbusiness.org

£30,000 Prize Fund For Best New Consortium Business Ideas Co-operative Development Scotland (CDS) is offering £30,000 worth of cash and support to develop new consortium co-operatives in Scotland.

The inaugural Collaboration Prize aims to encourage businesses to consider working with others to form a new consortium co-operative. Co-operatives are collaborative vehicles that play an important role in creating globally competitive businesses. They enable employees, businesses and communities to work together to fulfil shared interests.

“I hope the new prize will stimulate new thinking.”

With a combined turnover of £4bn and employing around 28,000 people, Scotland’s 550 co-operative businesses currently play a key role in driving Scotland’s economic growth.

The deadline for entries is 31 July 2012 and winners will be announced later this year in August.

For more information about the Collaboration Prize or Co-operative Development Scotland, please visit: www.scottish-enterprise.com/cds-collaboration-prize or call 0141 951 3055.

The Falkirk forBusiness Magazine

First Minister Alex Salmond, who has backed the initiative, said: “I am determined that the Scottish Government does everything possible to get more businesses thinking about how they can work better together, and the Collaboration Prize is a very valuable opportunity.”

Issue 5 • June 2012

CDS is calling for interested parties to pitch an idea for a new consortium co-operative with up to three winning concepts each receiving a cash prize of £5,000 and a further £5,000 of support to get the business off the ground.

15

Funds For Business Local small and medium sized businesses could benefit from up to £50,000 to help create or grow their businesses.

The East of Scotland Investment Fund was set up to help ensure that ‘good, commercially viable proposals do not fail from a lack of access to finance’. It aims to create up to 1000 new jobs over the next five years.

The Falkirk forBusiness Magazine

Issue 5 • June 2012

Launched in 2011, the Fund is financed by local authorities, the Royal Bank of Scotland and the European Regional Development Fund and can provide up to 50% of the total funding package needed to help your business flourish.

16

Falkirk Council’s Convener of Economic Strategy and Development said: “The Fund exists to give businesses a much needed boost especially if they are starting up or thinking of expanding.

A number of businesses across the East of Scotland have already benefitted from the fund and we’re hoping that local businesses tap into the fund and help to strengthen our economy.”

If successful, loans can be used towards the purchase of plant, business property or equipment or as working capital.

More information is available from www.eastscotinvest.co.uk or contact John Judge at Falkirk for Business on 01324 618966

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issue 5 - june 2012

www.myfuturesinfalkirk.co.uk

Architects awarded £1million contract to deliver unique tourism experience in Scotland Nicoll Russell Studios’ designs were selected by a panel of four judges for their use of light, space and strength of visual elements as well as the connection between the two separate structures, which work seamlessly together to create a distinctive experience.

Nicoll Russell Studios, whose head office is in Broughty Ferry, has been selected to deliver the prestigious contract following a design competition and tender process managed by the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland (RIAS) seeking ambitious designs for a functional but visionary visitor centre as part of the £41 million Helix project in Falkirk.

Sculptor Andy Scott commented on the chosen designs. He said: “It was a tough decision but for me, I could see how the internal space and visitor centre would work together. These are exciting times and I am delighted by both the prospect of seeing the designs come to life and to the contract being awarded to a Scottish company with an international reputation for excellence.”

The practice will also deliver their designs for an internal public space located within a 30m high Kelpie head created by world-renowned sculptor, Andy Scott, in a move that will establish a dramatic, multisensory experience anticipated to generate significant levels of repeat visits.

Mike King, programme director for the Helix Project, welcomed the outcome of the competition. He said: “This is a great result and demonstrates the quality and strength of architecture and design in Scotland.

Nicoll Russell Studios’ designs are dynamic and engaging and showed a clear understanding of the requirements of the

The Kelpies will feature an internal public space providing a dramatic, multi-sensory experience.

brief, set against the backdrop of the wider project objectives. The Helix is amongst the most exciting transformation programmes under way in the UK right now and one of our key aims is to create a unique multivisitor experience that will firmly establish the project as a ‘must see’ destination on the national and international tourism map.”

Canal Link Contract Award Balfour Beatty Civil Engineering has been awarded a £13.5 million contract to deliver a comprehensive programme of canal construction and design works, confirming the next stage of the Helix project.

The scope of the canal works will focus on creating a new canal extension from the existing Forth & Clyde canal down to a new sea lock on the River Carron, waiting areas and a lift bridge over the new extension at Glensburgh Road in Falkirk.

Issue 5 • June 2012

A Scottish architects’ practice has beaten global competition to secure a £1million contract to deliver a unique visitor experience, which will form part of one of the most exciting community projects in the UK.

Artist’s impression of the functional but visionary visitor centre

Falkirk to represent Scotland in EU initiative for SMEs Falkirk is representing Scotland in a pioneering initiative to help small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) throughout Europe.

The INTERREG project, ‘Supporting Programmes for Young SMEs’, will strengthen co-operation between regions in the European Union. Falkirk and partners from 12 EU countries - including Spain, Hungary, Germany, Lithuania, Poland and Belgium - aim to identify the most effective types of support for the survival and growth of recently established SMEs. Project participants will take part in up to 20 events over the next three years and Falkirk will play host at an event in September 2012.

The area’s economic development initiative My Future’s in Falkirk will lead on behalf of Falkirk Council, which believes its involvement will strengthen Scotland’s contribution to the EU’s growth strategy, Europe 2020.

Falkirk Council’s Head of Economic Development and Environmental Services, Douglas Duff said: “Europe 2020 highlights the need to improve the environment for business, particularly for SMEs. Our business support body Falkirk for Business has been driving support to the business community for many years, and the INTERREG project will now compliment our Business Support Strategy.”

Issue 5 • June 2012

The ultimate objective is to create a programme that can be delivered across Europe. It will be a tool kit for supporting areas of business such as market development, co-operation, networking, management and ICT. Douglas Duff added: “With economic conditions remaining uncertain, support for the survival of local businesses is extremely important. INTERREG provides the opportunity to engage in European trans-national activity and benefit our local young SMEs”.

Teacher James Murphy collected the UK’s Most Dedicated Teacher award at a ceremony in London

Teacher awarded for boosting profile of Science sector As the Falkirk area is at the epicentre of the chemical sciences sector, it is fitting that a Falkirk science teacher has won the UK’s Most Dedicated Teacher award for his contribution to Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (known as STEM).

James Murphy, a physics teacher at St Mungo’s High School beat off competition from more than 150 teachers throughout the UK to win the coveted title at the National STEMNET awards. His dedication was highly commended and he was awarded the title at a recent ceremony in the House of Lords.

James was put forward for the awards by Global Science, a Falkirk based organisation which promotes STEM in local schools. Kevin McKeever of Global Science said: “Since James’ arrival at St Mungo’s he has been extremely proactive in raising the profile and aspirations of young people to consider STEM course choices and promote careers.

“It is a fantastic achievement, a personal success for James, great news for the school, and generally positive for the Falkirk area and community.”

James visited the House of Lords in December to collect his award, and was thrilled to be given an opportunity to visit the CERN Institute in Switzerland.

James said: “I really did not expect to win but I am delighted and I thank STEMNET for their continued support in motivating our pupils. The trip to CERN allowed me to meet UK engineers and scientists based at the particle accelerator in Switzerland and gave me an excellent insight into the ground breaking work that is taking place there.”

in the headlines Olympic Torch is heading for Falkirk In the lead up to the Games in London the historic Olympic symbol will travel through Larbert, Camelon, Falkirk and Skinflats on Wednesday 13 June. Local residents have been selected to carry the torch.

Falkirk Herald, 20/03/12

An order from Perth based Stagecoach has secured work for Falkirk bus builder Alexander Dennis. The firm will be involved in building 226 vehicles including 19 hybrid electric buses destined for Perth and Aberdeen. Delivery of the new vehicles will be from May 2012.

Former Falkirk colliery site at Kinneil could become Scotland’s newest nature reserve

A 230,000 sq ft development at Grange Lane is now fully let thanks to a deal between Diagio and Rossco Properties for the remaining 180,000 sq ft of warehouse space. Diagio, whose brands include Johnnie Walker, Tanqueray gin and Guinness will primarily use the warehouse for the maturation of whisky. pressonshd.com, 23/02/12

Cancer ‘smart bomb’ plant in Grangemouth opens Following a grant from Scottish Enterprise, pharmaceutical company Piramal Healthcare have opened a new drugs plant in Grangemouth producing cancer drugs known as ‘smart bombs’. Officially called ADCs, the drugs are approved for use in the US and could soon be licensed for the European market. About 15 new jobs were created from the plant upgrade, taking the total number of employees to 85.

BBC News, 26/03/12

Falkirk butcher’s famous fare features on lorries Malcolm Allan’s popular steak pies are to feature on Tesco lorries delivering to all its Scottish stores. The two companies have worked together since meeting 8 years ago at the Royal Highland Show with Tesco now stocking 14 products in 60 stores across Scotland.

Falkirk Herald, 23/03/12

Summit Power Group have teamed up with National Grid and Petrofac to propose a commercial scale coal fuelled power station, incorporating carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology at Grangemouth Port. They are hoping to attract funding from the UK government. Described as a chemical refinery for coal, there would be no burning of the coal and it is claimed the CCS technology would reduce emissions by more than 90%.

BBC, 20/03/12

BT to expand superfast broadband roll-out across Scotland

The Herald, 21/02/12

Diagio takes new Grangemouth warehouse

Coal-fuelled power station plans for Grangemouth

By Spring 2013 towns including Bo’ness, Falkirk, Grangemouth and Larbert will benefit from the latest phase of BT’s £2.5 billion fibre broadband programme.

Falkirk Council and the Friends of Kinneil are liaising with Scottish Natural Heritage to have Kinneil nature reserve formally recognised with Local Nature Reserve status. It is hoped agreement will be reached by the summer.

Culture24.org.uk, 13/03/12

Success is the icing on the cake for Grangemouth’s crafty sisters After designing a novelty slipper cake for their Grandad, sisters Dawn McFadden and Jemma McCulloch were inundated with cake orders from friends and family. They opened their first shop last year and have now moved to bigger premises in Dundas Street where they operate as Love@ FirstBite, offering cupcake decorating classes for all ages and abilities.

Business7, 21/03/12

Ambitious plans for former brickworks site A huge mixed use development consisting of housing, offices, a football pitch and an animal hospital has been proposed for former brickworks site, Stein’s in Allandale.

A site visit will be made by members of Falkirk Council’s planning committee.

Falkirk Herald, 25/04/12

Gap site could create 205 jobs An application for planning permission in principle has been lodged for a 60 bed nursing home on the former Russell Athletic factory site in Bo’ness. The application includes a proposal for an industrial tenant on the site and estimates 130 jobs would be created in the care home and a further 75 in the industrial unit.

Falkirk Herald, 06/04/12

Linlithgow Gazette, 06/04/12

ScotRail to pilot wi-fi on Edinburgh to Glasgow trains

Firms urged to invest in business

New digital technology is being trialled as part of a pilot scheme which will allow passengers to access the internet on their phones and laptops. Scotrail will equip four trains running from Edinburgh to Glasgow via Falkirk with wi-fi equipment. It is hoped that eventually the technology will be available on trains across the country.

BBC, 28/02/12

Following the announcement that the UK had slipped back into recession, the Chairman of Scottish Enterprise, Crawford Gillies, urged company bosses to invest in their businesses in order to grow, citing Alexander Dennis of Falkirk as a company which had grown its market share to 50% despite the tough trading conditions.

Falkirk Herald, 25/04/12

Issue 5 • June 2012

Alexander Dennis to build bulk of Stagecoach fleet

Gail Fairholm of Corbie Inn with Stuart Simpson of the adjoining Kinneil Brew Hoose

Bo’ness Tourism is good for business Recent news to mark one of Europe’s most significant Roman artefacts at its birthplace of Bo’ness signals another boost for the town, which is fast becoming a feather in the cap of Falkirk’s tourist industry.

The completion of the Bridgeness Slab replica in Bo’ness will add to a wealth of attractions such as Bo’ness and Kinneil Railway, the Hippodrome, the Motor Museum and Kinneil House that are all encouraging people to visit the area.

These destinations and investment in the last year to improve the town centre are all positive contributions to the local economy, as many local businesses are set to benefit from the tourist trade. Two recent ventures that are aiming to both thrive from and contribute to the Bo’ness tourism industry are the Corbie Inn and adjoining Kinneil Brew Hoose. The pub and micro-brewery both opened last year and want to offer something that supports local people and tourists alike.

Issue 5 • June 2012

Offering cask beers and real ales, including those brewed by the Brew Hoose next door, is one point of difference that Corbie Inn owner Gail Fairholm hopes will attract custom to her venue. Gail and her husband bought and renovated a disused pub and British Legion club and now welcome patrons to sample their ales, restaurant food and traditional pub grub.

Gail said: “We are a family friendly business and offer homemade and locally sourced produce to provide a unique experience. We hold a programme of events to ensure the venue is a destination for the local community and we attract lots of tourists who are passing through including walkers and cyclists.” She added: “Having the brewery

next door is certainly a benefit to us and the area as more people are coming to Bo’ness to visit the Brew Hoose and drop in to the Inn to sample the ales with some food.”

The Kinneil Brew Hoose is operated independently by Stuart Simpson, who rents the brewery space from Gail. A traditional brewery, Stuart uses the finest malts and hops in his brews that are mashed, fermented and cask conditioned before leaving the brewery.

Stuart’s Brew Hoose has fast become another destination on the local tourist map as he welcomes visitors from across the UK who share his love for cask ales. Stuart explained: “Since I opened I’ve been visited by a steady stream of people, with a mix of locals, day trippers from nearby areas and tourists who make a special effort to take a detour to the brewery. Ideally, I’d like to be able to market tours of the brewery in the future but at the moment I try to speak to everyone who comes to visit.”

The creation of both businesses have also created a mutually beneficial partnership as Stuart’s brews, Caer Edin Dark Cask Ale and Pennvael Amber Cask Beer, are supplied to the Corbie Inn and this is helping Gail to offer specialised products that will attract beer aficionados. Gail is also helping Stuart to promote the sale of take home mini kegs and the brewer hopes to build this side of his business through local shops.

Gail said: “I do think that Bo’ness is a fantastic destination with a lot to see and do. I would hope that the Brewery and the Inn offers something to add to the experience for tourists as well as attracting more people to visit the town.”

talkback Chris McCarron, Director of Silentgig is our featured interview in this edition.

Silentgig is an innovative live audio visual sensory production company, which is working on a concept that involves headphones, vibration, projection and lighting to create a fully immersive concert and home entertainment experience.

Chris McCarron, Silentgig

The company was formed in January 2011, and has already completed an event in The 02 London and plans are underway for another event this summer.

Chris, a former sound engineer, has toured with the likes of Biffy Clyro and Razorlight and was born and bred in the Falkirk area.

Music has always been his passion, and he is now focused on getting his new concept out into the real world.

For more information check out www.silentgig.co.uk

What makes you happy and contented?

Seeing the pieces of the puzzle fit just where you hoped they would in life and in business.

In one sentence, what piece of advice could you offer to a new business?

Get the timing of your launch right and be smarter than people give you credit for.

Careful plans or big risks?

Both. What seems like a big risk can be achieved with careful plans.

Best under pressure or well chilled?

Definitely well chilled, it’s just the business we’re in.

What has been the most difficult hurdle to overcome in business and how did you do it?

Taking all of the ideas and putting them all into one tangible way forward was the biggest challenge. I could see how it would all fit, but it seemed so disparate to many ‘business’ people as our industry generally works in a different way. Refining that into a model normal business people can understand was the biggest challenge and Falkirk for Business and the Scottish Enterprise advisors have been hugely influential in how we’ve made that transition.

Which famous person do you most admire and why?

Probably Will. I. Am after his appearance on Top Gear. Multi talented and big hearted.

This guy made money from his music, got his family and friends out of the ghetto they lived in and then started a car company in the ghetto so that there was employment for those still below the poverty line. Giving people a purpose and the opportunity to provoke a generational change in attitude is all you can hope to do as an employer or a human being.

Best deal?

Still negotiating that one! Every deal you make should be the best deal you can get for your business either in pure monetary terms or with a mixture of raising company profile, exposure and networking. I’ll always assess those options and if none seem to fit, then we probably won’t do the job.

Best recipe for winding down?

Switching the phone off and going somewhere with no internet and a Jacuzzi.

In a perfect world…

Everyone would put back as much as they took out.

Favourite place?

I had a very special time in Majorca last year, so that comes high on the list, but it’s still Scotland every time.

With hindsight…

I don’t do regrets. Better to try and know than live a life in wonder.

Dream car?

I’m rubbish with cars because I don’t care that much about them. I see them as functional more than status symbols.

I always liked the old style Volkswagen Scirroco, so probably a mint condition one of those would be my choice.

Favourite city?

Amsterdam, because it feels like a brilliant welcoming little village not a big soulless city.

Favourite book?

Love All The People, the Bill Hicks story or On the Origin of Species, by Charles Darwin.

Hobbies?

I love comedy in all its forms but particularly stand-up comedians. I have loads of books and DVDs from a variety of performers. I’ve had a go at that too and probably will have another go. It’s an easy risk to take when it’s only your head that’s on the block!

Favourite eaterie/restaurant?

The best meal I’ve ever had in a restaurant was in La Fiorentina on Paisley Road West in Glasgow just last year. I like cooking and usually find Italian places a let down, but a friend had recommended this to me years ago so I went with my girlfriend. Everything was perfect. If you haven’t been, make the trip, it’s well worth it.

Issue 5 • June 2012

Best piece of business advice you ever received?

Be patient. Big business doesn’t move at the same speed you want.

Earls Gate Park welcomes Asda Asda are to relocate and expand their distribution services into a new 36 acre energy efficient and sustainable distribution facility at Earls Gate Park 2 in Grangemouth.

Leading fine chemicals company Calachem has created the industrial and business park, Earls Gate Park, as part of a successful joint development with Scottish Enterprise.

Site developer Bericote Properties expects construction to be complete by September 2012.

Asda will create 150 new jobs and safeguard 450 existing jobs as part of the move to the new site which fronts directly onto the Earls Gate Roundabout in Grangemouth.

Ryden Property Consultants on behalf of Calachem has to date facilitated the disposal of 68 acres and 5 buildings totalling 75,000 sq. ft. on Earls Gate Park 1. Twelve acres are currently under offer and only 3 serviced development plots remain available (from 1 acre to 9 acres). Visit www.earlsgatepark.co.uk for more information.

Additional Support Pupils make it 100% in training and job prospects Pupils from Carrongrange School in Larbert are all now heading for positive destinations, with 100% of school leavers going on to better their lives through work opportunities, further studying or learning new skills to help them find employment. All of the pupils who attend the school have varying degrees of additional support needs and it is the first time a 100% result has been achieved, having increased from 46% in 2009.

Central to the success has been a partnership between the school and Real Jobs Falkirk as Jim Nicol, manager of Real Jobs Falkirk explained: ‘When we launched this Project in April 2009 we had a clear destination in mind for service users. What has been achieved has evolved from the close working relationships formed by the team here with Carrongrange School, Colleges, Partner Organisations, Support Groups, Funders and Families.

‘These have all played their part in helping to raise the levels of creativity needed to achieve the positive outcomes that we targeted at the onset. Local businesses have also made a major contribution, in what is for them a difficult economic climate.’

Some examples of pupils achieving positive destinations include working at Muiravonside Country Park café, learning skills in catering and customer service; an Apprenticeship with CR Smith; College Courses in Agriculture, Childcare, Access to Engineering and Administration and working with the voluntary sector in charity shops and the Salvation Army, with a number of pupils being awarded Millennium Awards for Volunteering, and being nominated for the new Saltire Awards.

Issue 5 • June 2012

Win for Carrongrange Pupil A pupil from Carrongrange School was the lucky winner of the My Future’s in Falkirk young people survey prize draw. Tony Stephen was awarded first prize of £75 i-Tunes vouchers, with runners up Nicola Ramage and Nicola Kuzbyt winning £50 and £25 of the vouchers. Results of the survey can be seen at www.myfuturesinfalkirk.co.uk in the ‘young people’ section of the website.

economic outlook In this edition, the Economic Outlook column from Falkirk Council’s Research and Information Unit reports on the gloomy state of the national economy, but on a more positive note, highlights the improvement in youth unemployment in our own area.

Double dip recession It appears from the preliminary GDP figures for the first quarter of 2012 published by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) at the end of April, that the much talked about “double dip recession” has happened.

These figures showed that the UK economy shrank by 0.2% in the first three months of 2012, following a decrease of 0.3% in the final quarter of 2011. A recession is defined as two consecutive quarters of contraction, so these figures suggest that we are once more in a recession – all be it not a severe one as yet.

There are other aspects of the economic situation which are to be noted. Inflation, which had been falling steadily throughout the autumn and winter, rose again in March mainly due to rising food prices. These increases were somewhat offset by lower energy and fuel prices. The problems in the Eurozone continue, which is also having a negative effect on our economy.

The graph below illustrates that since the economy came out of the last recession in the second half of 2009, progress has been mixed with seven quarters of growth but four quarters during which the economy contracted.

Prior to the publication of the latest figures, most commentators had been predicting a very small rise in GDP in early 2012, so the shrinking of the economy was unexpected to many. ONS suggested that the dip in output was due to a sharp 1.5 contraction in the construction industry.

UK and Scotland GDP Growth %, quarter on quarter

1

Figures for Scotland for the first quarter of 2012 will not be available until July, but the Scottish figures have largely mirrored the UK ones over the last few years.

The general message appears to be that the economy remains weak and volatile with growth around zero and with little immediate prospect of much change. Whether these figures signal a return to a sustained recession, or whether they are simply a reflection of the volatility of the economy in a very low growth situation, remains to be seen. The economy may be better described as bumping along the bottom rather than in a full blown recession.

Other business and economic news has been more positive. For example, the British Chambers of Commerce quarterly survey for the first quarter of 2012 showed an improvement over the previous quarter.

The Nationwide Building Society reported consumer confidence at a nine month high. The UK government hit its borrowing target for the year. Interest rates remain low. And the latest unemployment figures showed a small fall, both nationally and locally.

0.5 0 ‐0.5 ‐1 ‐1.5 UK ‐2

Scotland

‐2.5 2008 Q3

2009 Q4

Q1

2010 Q2

Q3

Q4

Q1

2011 Q2

Q3

Q4

Q1

2012 Q2

Q3

Q4

Q1

Source: Office for National Statistics

There was some better news to report on youth unemployment in the Falkirk area. While there were still 1,295 young people aged 18-24 claiming unemployment benefits in the area in March, this is 120 fewer young people unemployed than there were a year ago.

This reduction contrasts with an increase of 2,450 across Scotland and 60,000 in the UK as a whole. The Scottish Government, in their monthly report on youth unemployment highlighted that compared to all other local authorities in Scotland, “Falkirk experienced the greatest decrease in (the) rate (of youth unemployment) over the year, a decrease of 0.7 percentage points.” However, youth unemployment is still above the national average and we are continuing to focus efforts and resources on this priority area.

Also, the percentage of all Job Seekers Allowance claimants who are aged under 25 has decreased since the start of the recession in 2008.

In March 2008 36% of the unemployed were aged 16-24 while by March this year, this had decreased to 28.3%. This means that youth unemployment has increased at a slower rate than the increase among other age groups since the start of the recession.

For more information on the local economy see: Falkirk as a location: www.myfuturesinfalkirk.co.uk/research The Falkirk Council Research and Information web pages: www.falkirk.gov.uk/statistics

Issue 5 • June 2012

Youth unemployment

Looking for Business Property in the Falkirk Area?

The Business Property Register is an ideal point of reference for companies or individuals looking for property in which to start a new business venture, relocate or expand an existing business. www.falkirk.gov.uk /property or call Jennifer Anton at Falkirk Council on 01324 590975.

Falkirk’s Leading IT Company Celebrates Its 30th Birthday

So Microspec was born in 1982, initially providing a steady supply of computers to all sizes and types of businesses throughout Scotland and Northern England. Amongst some of David’s first clients were Hospices throughout the UK, The Royal Sick Children’s Hospital in Edinburgh and Falkirk College as it was known then.

Being a newly established IT business in the days of DOS and before Microsoft, they needed a reliable accounting system, so they researched the market and chose Pegasus. Soon they were appointed a Pegasus Systems Centre sharing their knowledge and offering clients an accounts software to help run their own businesses. At that stage they were also Sage resellers and then, some time later, came the Pick operating system and database.

Always wanting to be ahead of the posses in finding the right software for their clients and for themselves, they found an extremely versatile accounts system called Datafile which they and their clients continue to use.

Around 17 years ago David was introduced to Customer Relationship Management. He immediately saw all the benefits CRM would bring and became CRM resellers, now using Microsoft CRM in the cloud.

Having experienced 3 recessions in their 10,950 days in the IT industry has proved challenging during economic downturns, but Microspec’s forward thinking attitude and their enthusiasm for embracing change and the constant learning curves IT brings with it has enabled them to reach this 30 year milestone.

EPoS is another area of the IT market where Microspec’s sister company The Epos Centre is growing, with charities and retailers being amongst their main customers.

So, what would David Pettigrew recommend to new businesses starting up now if they want to be around 30 years later?

David suggests…

• Keeping a close eye on finances and not overstretching • Always being open and honest with clients • Being confident in the products and/or services you are offering • Building long term relationships with your clients • Striving to make your business the best it can be – that way it will stand out amongst its competitors • Giving a friendly and professional service • Working closely as a team within your business David continues… “from Day 1 we have known that the service we needed to provide had to be among the best.

We have won clients who have felt that their current IT provider did not value them or provide the personal service they needed. Establishing a good and strong relationship with clients is paramount because then the relationship lasts and they recommend you to others.

In order to survive, every business needs to embrace change – someone once said that in the IT industry the only thing which stays constant is change, which is very true.

Hopefully the advice we have offered to new and existing business owners will help them to celebrate 30 years + in their chosen industry.”

Microspec, 90 Grahams Road, Falkirk, FK2 7DL www.microspec.co.uk

Issue 5 • June 2012

With a degree and a background in Electronic Engineering at Edinburgh University and Phillips and a natural fascination and interest in computers, it was inevitable that David Pettigrew, MD would spend the rest of his working life in the ever changing world of IT.

Cloud technology is providing many more companies with an attractive alternative and Microspec sees many other advantages for businesses too, although it may not suit everyone.

The Falkirk forBusiness Magazine

In the 1980’s one of the first portable computers was a Compaq Portable II, black and white, weighed 26lbs and cost between £2,150 - £3,150. Compare that to a modern laptop, full colour, weighs 5 lbs and costs as little as £300. They have changed in appearance nearly as much as you and I in 30 years!

Lindsay Pettigrew -second right - from Microsoft receives recognition from Forth Valley Women into Business Group

27

Get tOGetHer at

Open mOnday tO Friday 08.30am – 17.00pm at tHe FaLKirK StadiUm

FREE

The Westfield Lounge is available for event and conference hire. Call 01324 618740

■ Graphic Design & Print ■ Yearbooks, Magazines & Brochures

dtech designers

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& publishers

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Publishers of

THE DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

ISSUE 15 • SUMMER 2012

INcommerce ISSUE 13 • SPRING 2012

THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

THE

INcommerce

Lanarkshire CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

ISSUE 5 • AUTUMN 2011

INcommerce YOUR

FREE

CO PY

Issue 5 • June 2012

Children’s Games Boost Lanarkshire Tourism

City Status For Perth MAKE SAVINGS - GO GREEN

Also in this issue...

• Why Join the Chamber? Page 6 • Hamilton BID Update - Pages 14/15 • The Best Road in Britain - Pages 36/37 • CHAMBER AFFILIATION DEAL – PAGE 5 • LOMONDGATE SCULPTURE UNVEILED – PAGE 11 • WE ARE SAILING – PAGES 17-22

InCommerce Dunbartonshire

Beekeepers have Perthshire buzzing

Scottish Cabinet Minister John Swinney gets down to business

Gannochy Trust celebrates 75th anniversary

InCommerce Perthshire

• SUPPORTING CHARITIES – A GREAT BUSINESS STRATEGY • NEW SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND ENTHUSIASM IN YOUR BUSINESS? • DO YOU HAVE A MARKETING SUPPORT MECHANISM FOR YOUR BUSINESS?

InCommerce Mid, East & West Lothian

Unit 14, Birch Road, Broadmeadow Industrial Estate, Dumbarton G82 2RE T: 01389 736000 F: 01389 736002 E-mail: info@dtechuk.com

www.dtechuk.com

www.falkirkforbusiness.org www.lanarkshirechamber.org

InCommerce Lanarkshire

Supplement Inside

InCommerce Falkirk for Business

Imagine transactions without credit cards, debit cards or cash. Or a world without paper ticketing for travel, concerts and events. This is the future; Bytemark is shaping it.

At Bytemark, the team develop mobile apps that could see all other payment and ticketing methods rendered tired, time-consuming and wasteful. At our offices in Grangemouth and New York they’re busy evolving ideas for business; ways that these mobile apps will change how all transactions and ticketing are done.

Nearly one in three adults in the UK now uses a smartphone, according to a report by the telecoms regulator Ofcom and over a quarter of people use their mobile phones for internet access. These are trends that will only continue to grow with an expected 95 percent of people to be using smartphones by 2016.

At the forefront of this mobile revolution, Bytemark are focussing on mobile app design and how it can make a difference. They are already in the process of partnering the most progressive of companies in the UK and Europe from their base in Grangemouth.

Creating the mobile app technology that will make paying for goods and ticket redemption easy and stress-free for consumers, the Bytemark solution improves customer loyalty for businesses. In today’s technology-driven culture, a smart cutting-edge solution like Bytemarks’ promotes a business as one which is client-centred and current. Furthermore the ticketing and payment apps designed are fully white labelled meaning any business is able to customise the app with their own corporate identity and brand.

With a head office in New York why choose Grangemouth as the UK base? As Bytemark director Alex Stewart comments, “Based in the Hub building, Grangemouth gives us the ideal base in central Scotland from which to build an international business. The team at Falkirk for Business and Alistair Campbell at Bellair were very much a deciding factor in locating here with their enthusiasm, expertise and advice”.

The Falkirk forBusiness Magazine

Email: alex@bytemark.co Telephone: 01324 478240 Website: www.bytemark.co

Issue 5 • June 2012

To find out more about this revolutionary technology and how it could increase your revenue get in touch.

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Seven Choices for Business Improvement

1

A Step By Step Roadmap for Success for your Business Do you want to grow your business? Are you being held back by the lack of time, skills or even inspiration?

2 3

4

Are you bogged down in the day to day routine of business and don’t get the chance to sit back, reflect and plan?

The Falkirk forBusiness Magazine

Issue 5 • June 2012

Do you have anyone to bounce ideas off, or even to hold you accountable for the actions you take?

30

5 6 7

Martin Robertson Associates Ltd, Chartered Accountants, 5 Kings Court, Falkirk, FK1 1PG Tel: 01324 633 550, Fax 01324 633 301.

Sharpen Your Entrepreneurial Skills – Begins with you the business owner: without you firing on all cylinders your business will flounder.

Strategy and Planning – You the business owner must focus on personal skills, have a clear strategy, mission, vision and a plan on how to achieve your goals. You need to build a firm foundation on which to base your future success. You need to have a big picture for the strategy and detail for the planning.

Business Models, Processing and Monitoring – Success is underpinned by the way you run your business: the processes you have in place, how you measure and monitor your business, and how you reinforce the importance of taking action. The system needs to be put down in writing otherwise it is in your head and can vary. (A great book to assist with this is “The E Myth” by Michael Gerber).

Demystifying Your Financial Need and Controls – Many business owners underestimate the importance of knowing how the financial side of the business works, cash flow, projections, profitability and debt collection. Do you know at the beginning of the month the sales you need to at least breakeven? Or how much cash you need to collect to meet all your financial commitments in the month?

Personal Effectiveness – Many business owners fail to understand different personality types and how they affect the way they perform, improve staff productivity and improve client relationships. Understanding the different personality types can significantly reduce your stress levels.

Marketing and Promoting your Business – Marketing is more than placing an advert; the rise of the internet and Social Media has opened up new markets. Are you gaining maximum benefit from your online presence and effectively using Social Media to promote your business?

Essential Time Management – You can’t create more hours in the day, so you have to use the hours you are given better, prioritise meetings and tasks and you’ll find time to do the things you need to most.

So, how many of the above are apparent in your business?

Don’t worry...there is a way forward, we can help you grow your business, your profits and your life balance.

Here's to your success!

DENNY ENGRAVING LTD 1 Manse Place, Falkirk, Scotland, FK1 1JN Tel/Fax: (01324) 634 900 Visit our website at: www.dennyengraving.co.uk

A Full Range of Quality Awards for Your Corporate Day Out Metal Figures, Resins and Crystal Awards Distance No Object

Wedding Gifts

Wonderful gifts for that very special occasion. Gifts for your Bride or Groom to be. Special presents for your Bridesmaids, Ushers, Mums and Dads.

Corporate Gifts and Presentations

Thousands of items with your corporate logo and text on them can be supplied. These are suitable for giving away at Trade Shows or that special customer presentation or event.

ALL AWARDS CAN BE FULLY ENGRAVED WITH YOUR REQUIRED DETAILS

• • • • • •

Free Home Surveys Fitted Furniture Installation/Fitting Service Homes/Offices Five Year Guarantee Experienced Staff

“We will beat any like for like quote”

01324 630 391 Unit 5 Almond Rd, Middlefield Industrial Estate, Falkirk, Stirlingshire FK2 9HQ

AJ GLASS PROCESSING GLASS SPLASHBACKS SPECIALISTS

SPLASHBACKS TO THE HIGHEST STANDARD Supply only or supply + fit full measuring and fitting service 1400 Colours to choose from, there is one thats right for you. We have a choice of 10 different sparkles that looks amazing with down lighters We supply full in house cnc service to prepare cut outs for sockets, shapes etc. All toughened safety glass used and opti white glass available. www.glasssplashbacksuk.net

AJ Glass & Glazing 19 Almond Road, Middlefield Ind Est Falkirk FK2 9HQ Tel: 01324 610610 Fax: 01324 630222 E-mail: info@ajglasssplashbacks.co.uk

For all your accountancy and taxation needs Accounts • Audit • Tax Payroll • VAT • Business Plans Record Keeping & Office Support Services 5/9 BRIDGE STREET BONNYBRIDGE FK4 1AD 01324 812169

MGW Seafoods Ltd have been suppliers to the Catering Industry for more than quarter of a century. We supply all fish types to Hotels, Restaurants, Supermarkets, Fish & Chip shops etc, throughout central belt of Scotland. You can also visit our retail outlet in the Redhouse bottom of Shieldhill Road, Falkirk. Give us a call today on 01324 716616.

If it’s in the sea we can get it!

Unit 6, The Redhouse, Shieldhill Road, Reddingmuirhead, Falkirk, FK2 0DT

01324 716616 • www.scottishfreshcatch.com • gordon@scottishfreshcatch.com

Tie the knot at Portavadie Marina It’s all about you, your loved one and your special day, which we would like to play our part in, making it more than you ever dreamed it could be.

A fabulous setting in a truly unique destination awaits you and your guests at Portavadie Marina.

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accommodation ceremonies beauty & wellbeing retail therapy restaurants and bars

For more information please call 01700 811 075 email events@portavadiemarina.com or visit portavadiemarina.com

Head Office 20 BARNTON STREET STIRLING FK8 1NE 01786 474718 ALSO AT AUCHTERARDER & CALLANDER

e-mail – headoffice@dicksonmiddleton.co.uk www.dicksonmiddleton.co.uk

A B AS SB Airdrie Savings Bank Head Office: 56 Stirling Street, Airdrie ML6 0AW www.airdriesavingsbank.com

An independent bank with traditional value An independent bank with traditional values Now open at 33 High Street, Falkirk FK1 1ES

ow open at 33 High Street, Falkirk FK1 1E Contact Branch on 01324 ContactFalkirk Falkirk Branch on 01324 624501 624501 for more information for more information

Internet Banking, Personal Service, Accounts, Business Accounts, Business ernet Banking, Personal Service, Business Business Loans, Loans, Savings Account Mortgages, PersonalMortgages, Loans, Homeowner Loans.......and call centres Savings Accounts, Personal Loans, Homeownerno Loans....... and no call centres Head Office: 56 Stirling Street, Airdrie ML6 0AW www.airdriesavingsbank.com

Investing in Falkirk…

By Design Rose O’Connor and Douglas Cameron discuss the next phase of work on site with Derek McIntyre, Managing Director of Murdoch Smith & Co Ltd.

2012 will see a number of significant changes for Falkirk based Eden Consultancy Group Limited as it continues to grow and invest in Falkirk and in other local businesses.

The Falkirk forBusiness Magazine

Issue 5 • June 2012

In the next few months, the company will be moving to a more prominent location in the centre of town. Eden have engaged local builder Murdoch Smith & Co Ltd, to renovate and upgrade a well known landmark building in Hope Street, Falkirk and will relocate from their current Falkirk base in Arnothill.

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A well known part of the Forth Valley business network and based in Falkirk for the past 8 years, the Eden team are excited about this expansion into their new business home. Rose O’Connor, Graphic Design Director says; “Falkirk continues to provide an exciting and positive business environment for us. It’s great to be able to continue to invest in the town, and we’re delighted to have the opportunity to sensitively upgrade 2 & 4 Hope Street working with experienced local suppliers. We have made a number of recent additions to the team and the new premises will give us the additional space that we need”.

The sympathetic building refit will see the creation of two separate high quality business properties. Eden is relocating to 4 Hope Street, but will shortly be marketing the neighbouring premises at 2 Hope Street. “We are looking for a business that is seeking to lease around 140sq m (1,500sq ft) of high quality air conditioned office space with parking, in a prominent and sought after town centre location. The neighbouring building is particularly interesting in that it comes equipped with it’s own walk-in vault, so it offers a bit more than just a normal office” says Douglas Cameron, Eden Consultancy Group Director.

Eden Consultancy Group Limited

Eden Consultancy Group’s core business is graphic design; brand creation and promotion, communicating key selling messages and effectively engaging the target audiences of their clients - from corporate identity and branding to exhibition stands, and from web design to promotional leaflets and corporate material, in short all forms of visual communication.

Eden are continuing to flourish with a growing local and national client base. “There will always be a need for high quality creative design” said Rose. “Most successful businesses reach a point when they appreciate that they can only get truly original and effective identity, branding and marketing from experienced designers who know how to translate their business visions into effective design and marketing solutions that deliver.”

Eden Consultancy Group can be contacted on 01324 633785, or via email info@edenconsultancygroup.co.uk.

Liz Hoskin – Chief Radiator

Courses for work are just the job

What has changed their lives are the 16-20 week courses run by transformation company Positive Qualities, which originally worked with commercial companies to increase sales and customer and staff satisfaction. However lead trainer, and intriguingly titled “Chief Radiator” Liz Hoskin realised that the company had another role to offer. “We wanted to do something to help young people and we are now the provider of choice with local secondary schools. We use a range of techniques to work on the person first to help the youngsters on their personal effectiveness. We work on mindset, language, attitude, communication skills, positive behaviours, self-esteem and confidence. All of this leads into employability skills and we help the youngsters decide what they want from a job and then take appropriate action to give them the best chance to achieve their goals.”

The secondary school pupils attend the Positive Possibility programme at Positive Qualities’ premises in Grangemouth one day a week, and have sole responsibility for their attendance and behaviour. Staff at the local Secondary Schools see a huge difference in youngsters attending the programme. “It opens the door to the adult world for them, making them more independent.” says Iona Henderson, Enterprise and Education Co-ordinator at Falkirk High School. Depute Head Stuart Kelly agrees, “There is improved engagement all round as the course suits their needs and offers a successful transition into work, training or college. For us it is an absolutely positive experience and it does give the young people a “can do” attitude.”

Liz would also like to share the PQ programme with more people. “We want to feed back to more teachers and involve them at a deeper level. Ideally, this approach should be integrated into the curriculum. We currently share with our commercial clients who give huge amounts of time to support the PQ programme. Asda, for example, often has the young people down to its premises where they go through mock interviews and get feedback on their employability.”

The last word goes to one of the youngsters who has attended the PQ programme and has gone from disengaged school leaver, to trainee hairdresser. Alicia Hannah found the course gave her more confidence and taught her to trust her colleagues by participating as an active team member.

She says “It wasn’t like school – it was more challenging and more fun and my attitude has definitely changed. I’ve still got attitude. I always had attitude. But now it’s positive attitude.”

[This article first appeared in The Times Educational Supplement Scotland and is reproduced by their kind permission and that of the author Raymond Ross.]

Positive Qualities, Evans Business Centre, Earls Road, Grangemouth, FK3 8UU

Issue 5 • June 2012

They are among 100 young people from local secondary schools who have successfully achieved the City and Guilds Employability and Personal Development Award, and they are all young people previously disengaged from school.

Positive Qualities is now an accredited City and Guilds centre, having successfully trained some 100 young people in the Falkirk area over the past four years. John Robertson, City and Guilds Business Manager is full of praise for the work being undertaken by Liz and her team. “They offer a structured, quality programme and employers can see the rigours behind it.” He says: “We would like to see the use of City and Guilds qualifications broadened out across Scotland and working with Positive Qualities is a step in the right direction.”

The Falkirk forBusiness Magazine

It’s a graduation ceremony with a difference as a group of nervous teenagers gather in Falkirk Town Hall to receive their certificates from Falkirk Provost Pat Reid.

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www.wellsfield.co.uk

Activity Centre

Wellsfield Farm Activity Centre, near Denny, now offers corporate entertainment events, corporate activity days, individual and group activities, team building activities, private party events, stag and hen party activities and fun days. If you are looking for a gift for a friend, an incentive day out or just something different we offer an exciting portfolio of activities. Set within 200 acres, Wellsfield Farm is perfectly located in Central Scotland to hold your event. We are only 15 minutes from Stirling or Falkirk and 30 minutes from Glasgow or Edinburgh.

Corporate Event Activities include: Archery • Trout Fishing on 3 Lochans • Fly Fishing Lessons & Casting Instruction Horse Riding Lessons • Horseback Hacking • Children’s Pony Rides, Loan a Pony Days, Birthday Parties Mini Highland Games • Sumo Wrestling Suits/Gladiators Laser Shot - Laser Clays and Laser Game Shooting Falconry Displays for Group Events, Falconry Lessons Coffee Shop • Health Club • 4 Star Holiday Lodges • Clubhouse • Event Catering Options All activities are “on site” at Wellsfield Farm.

We cater for individuals through to groups of any size and can tailor events and packages to suit your requirements and budget.

We have a dedicated event management team on hand to organise your very own bespoke event.

We can help you organise everything from your activities to catering and accommodation to ensure your day is a success.

CALL US NOW...to make an enquiry about your event - Telephone: 01324 822800 Email: enquiries@wellsfield.co.uk • www.wellsfield.co.uk Wellsfield Farm Activity Centre, Stirling Road, Denny FK6 6QZ

Supporting businesses in Falkirk to move towards Zero Waste Businesses in Falkirk can now access free online tools and expert advice, or even receive funding which could result in significant bottom line savings.

Scotland has already made commendable progress on recycling. Household recycling rates have jumped to around 40% in just over 10 years, and rising landfill tax is already making businesses increasingly aware of the true cost of waste.

Under new proposed regulations, all businesses will be required to collect paper and card, glass, metals, and plastics in separate bins for recycling by 2013. For businesses in food retail, production or preparation, a separate food waste collection will also be needed.

Potential economic gains underpin these regulations and targets, and businesses which do more stand to gain the most.

Zero Waste Scotland aims to make it easy and cost-effective for businesses in Falkirk and across Scotland to do more to reduce waste and recycle to a high standard.

On Course for Zero Waste is a free online training course which aims to improve resource efficiency and performance.

The course offers easy to understand knowledge and tools, designed to provide businesses with the necessary skills to get the most out of raw materials, packaging, existing stock and other resources.

For small micro-businesses, quick and easy fact sheets are available giving tips to help you reduce resource use and manage waste.

Businesses in the food and drink industry can access free and confidential reviews to identify opportunities to reduce packaging and resource use within their operations and those companies in their supply chain.

A pilot fund is also underway to support projects which help businesses access flexible and cost-effective recycling services which will in turn, ensure they can comply more easily with proposed Zero Waste Regulations.

Zero Waste Scotland is currently working with Falkirk Delivers, Falkirk town centre’s Business Improvement District (BID) to undertake a survey with their levy payers. Local businesses are being asked complete a survey on their current waste management practices which will be used to inform a potential future recycling service in the BID’s area.

By collecting larger quantities of recyclable waste materials together in one place or joining together to contract one waste manager to provide collections, small businesses could stand to make financial savings, increase their recycling rates and reduce their environmental impact.

Marissa Lippiatt, Head of Business Support for Zero Waste Scotland, said: “Scotland’s commercial sector produces an estimated 2.9million tonnes of waste every year. Businesses can save money by taking action to prevent waste in the first place.

After ensuring we are efficient in our use of resources, recycling as much as possible is the next important step.

We are committed to helping Scotland’s businesses make the most of their resources and adapt to meet the requirements of the Zero Waste Regulations.”

More information, as well as a range of publications and case studies, can be found at www.zerowastescotland.org.uk

Issue 5 • June 2012

Scottish firms could save up to £2 billion by adopting simple resource efficiency measures, and by moving towards a zero waste operation your business can ensure it is compliant with proposed new Waste (Scotland) Regulation and help Scotland achieve its ambitious 70% recycling target by 2025.

Specific advice and guidance is available for the construction industry on how to be more resource efficient.

The Falkirk forBusiness Magazine

Zero Waste Scotland, the organisation set up by the Scottish Government to support the delivery of its Zero Waste Plan, is here to help local businesses save money and help the environment by taking action to reduce waste and recycle more.

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‘The key to good tax management is planning ahead’ Personal, Business and Corporate Tax Planning Inheritance and Capital Gains Tax Reviews Tax Return Preparation and Investigations VAT Compliance Reviews Macfarlane Gray House, Castlecraig Business Park, Stirling 01786 451745 Email: hazelb@macfarlanegray.co.uk www.macfarlanegray.co.uk

STIRLING • ALLOA

ADVERTISE your business in...

INcommerce DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Doing business without advertising is like winking at a girl in the dark. You know what you are doing, but nobody else does.

Steuart Henderson Britt

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01389 736000 Unit 14, Birch Road, Broadmeadow Industrial Estate, Dumbarton G82 2RE T: 01389 736000 F: 01389 736002 E-mail: info@dtechuk.com www.dtechuk.com

In many ways, trading conditions remain as difficult today as they were at the start of the present economic downturn. Times are therefore tough and they look set to remain this way for the next few years. However, while some businesses do appear to be struggling, many others are doing remarkably well. How do they achieve this?

•

It may be better to reduce margins to keep sales and cash flow moving. Reduced profit is not good but running out of cash is much worse.

•

Monitor stock and work in progress levels. Reducing these can have a positive cash effect.

•

Tighten up credit control procedures. Money owed to the business is yours; it has been earned, you are entitled to it and you need it to succeed. Do not be embarrassed to ask for what you are legally entitled to receive.

•

Buy well. There are plenty of discounts out there.

Suppliers will drop prices to keep their cash flow moving.

•

Review costs. It can virtually be guaranteed that you are incurring costs you do not really need.

•

If current trading conditions are affecting your business, tell your staff what action you are taking and the contribution you need from them. You will still need these quality people when trading conditions improve.

•

Think clearly and logically and do not make rash decisions.

•

Project forward and monitor performance against budget.

•

Keep in with your bank. An early well presented approach works better than a panic meeting (especially if called by the bank!). Make sure you understand and meet the financial covenants in your facility letter. Do not be late with management accounts.

•

Take good professional advice.

dtech designers

& publishers

Colour Copiers | B/W Copiers Multi Function Machines Fax Machines | Printers Hire-Archy’s sale strategy is simple – to listen. You tell us what you need and we’ll offer you a suitable solution at the best possible price.

We have offices in Kilsyth, Fife and Larbert and our main showroom is at: Logan’s House Tel: 01236 829 131 Lochlands Industrial Estate Fax: 01236 822 133 Larbert E-mail: info@hire-archy.com Falkirk FK5 3NS www.hire-archy.com

For any further information please contact Macfarlane Gray on 01786 451745 or send an email to info@macfarlanegray.co.uk

Issue 5 • June 2012

Issue 4

The Falkirk forBusiness Magazine

azine iness Mag rk forBus The Falki

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r 2011 • Decembe Issue 3

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The Business Panel+ Events We are still putting together our autumn programme but a few key dates for your diary are:

New Member Profiles Calad media CALAD media provide website design and development, social media and training services mainly to small to medium enterprises (SME’s) throughout Central Scotland and beyond. We are ideally placed in Polmont near Falkirk.

In most cases the websites that are developed include a full content management system (CMS), with our preferred platform for development being the Joomla CMS. Other services include social media set-up, integration with your new website and training on how best to use the various social networking platforms for maximum benefit. These include Facebook for Business, Twitter, LinkedIn, Youtube and finally, the new kid on the bloc - Pinterest. These are the core social media platforms we use to assist our client base to further their reach and exposure by driving customers to their websites and converting them into sales.

Our ethos is simple, “our aim is to help you and your brand achieve more online”.

Contact Details: alex@calad-media.co.uk

Issue 5 • June 2012

For Start-Up Businesses

The Falkirk forBusiness Magazine

A lunchtime event led by two local companies – Wi-Link Solutions and Microspec Ltd. Experts from both organisations will bring you completely up to date on the latest technological developments, to help your business stay ahead of the game.

12.00-14.00 at Falkirk Stadium. More info coming soon on our website.

September 21st – Annual Business Conference A morning conference hosted at the Inchyra Grange Hotel, Polmont. As usual there will be a range of dynamic and thoughtprovoking speakers, looking at issues affecting today’s economy.

The full programme and delegate registration details will be available soon.

SPECIAL OFFER

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August 22nd – Technology for Business – are you keeping up?

50% MEMBERSHIP DISCOUNT

Starting up your own business can be expensive, and a time when you need to enlist the support of both fellow entrepreneurs and business experts.

Falkirk for Business is here to help, and we can now offer a special discounted rate for start-up businesses who register for membership of our networking club, Business Panel Plus.

BENEFITS TO MEMBERS INCLUDE: Monthly ezine with latest news and events, FREE places at most of our training seminars and workshops.

Early bird discounts and preferential rates at Business Panel Exhibition and Conference.

FREE members, advert in our quarterly magazine INCommerce.

10% discount on subsequent advertising in INCommerce.

PR opportunites.

A wide range of networking opportunities with businesses of all shapes, sectors and sizes!

All of these benefits are now available to new businesses starting up in 2012 at a massive 50% discount on the normal price. To sign up for your annual membership for only £30 plus VAT, please call us on 01324 66 55 00 to register your details.

“Membership of Business Panel Plus is definitely worthwhile as the training supplied is excellent, and the networking is essential” STEVE HIGSON

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GEMINI WALKS

4 Stadium Way, Falkirk FK2 9EE t. 01324 665 500 f. 01324 617 637 e. info@falkirkforbusiness.org www.falkirkforbusiness.org

Service • Reliability • Quality • Integrity One of Europe’s foremost non-destructive testing organisations.

Inspection Ecosse Limited offer specialised Non Destructive Testing including Radiographic, Ultrasonic, Dye Penetrant and Magnetic Particle Inspections, with fully qualified technicians.

We operate in all industries including: • Oil Refining • Petrochemicals • Engineering • Shipping • Power Supply • Food and Brewing • Non Destructive Testing A vital role in a variety of industrial, commercial and service applications.

Inspection Ecosse Ltd., Unit 1D, Laurieston Industrial Estate, Old Redding Road, Falkirk FK2 9JU www.inspection-ecosse.com

Tel: 01324 627 772

Stirling Business Gateway, Stirling Enterprise Park, John Player Building, Stirling, FK7 7RP 01786 463416 reception@stepstirling.co.uk June 04/06/12 05/06/12 05/06/12 19/06/12 20/06/12 28/06/12 July 03/07/12 03/07/12 03/07/12 17/07/12 24/07/12 August 29/08/12 September 04/09/12 04/09/12 05/09/12 18/09/12 18/09/12 20/09/12

Clackmannanshire Business Gateway, Gean House, Tullibody Road, Alloa, Clackmannanshire, FK10 2EL 01259 726430 aharrick@ceteris.co.uk

Falkirk Business Gateway, Falkirk For Business, The Falkirk Stadium, 4 Stadium Way, Falkirk, FK2 9EE 01324 665500 info@falkirkforbusiness.org

Improve Your Search Engine Ranking What You Need To Know Before Setting Up A Website Trading Online Book Keeping 1 Book Keeping 2 Advertising & Promotion

18.00 - 21.00 09.30 - 12.30 09.30 - 12.30 18.00 - 21.00 18.00 - 21.00 09.30 - 12.30

Falkirk Stirling Falkirk Stirling Stirling Falkirk

Build Your Own Website 1 Build Your Own Website 2 Get Real Results From Your Website Managing Cash Flow Get Real Results From Your Website

09.30 - 12.30 13.30 - 16.30 09.30 - 12.30 13.30 - 16.30 09.30 - 12.30

Alloa Alloa Stirling Falkirk Alloa

Marketing Your Business

18.00 - 21.00

Stirling

Book Keeping 1 Book Keeping 2 Advertising & Promotion Book Keeping 1 Book Keeping 2 Marketing Your Business

09.30 - 12.30 13.30 - 16.30 18.00 - 21.00 09.30 - 12.30 13.30 - 16.30 09.30 - 12.30

Alloa Alloa Stirling Falkirk Falkirk Alloa

The Falkirk forBusiness Magazine

Issue 5 • June 2012

NB: Business Start-up Courses also run regularly in all areas – contact the Business Gateway Office in your area for details.

42

Advertising & Promotion This course considers the various advertising options available, looks at what’s cost-effective and what’s not when it comes to spend and will help delegates formulate a basic advertising strategy.

Book Keeping The golden rule of setting up a system to manage your finances is that it should be simple and methodical. This course will teach you the fundamentals and at the same time equip you with a new skill for life.

Build Your Own Website Learn from scratch how to build and manage an attractive and effective website for your business. This workshop will show you how simple it is to develop your own business website and keep it up to date yourself.

Get Real Results From Your Website Considers what makes a good website - from a human and technical perspective. Looks at site planning, design and operational processes.

Improve Your Search Engine Ranking Aims to improve client understanding and improve search engine positioning and business promotion.

Managing Cash Flow This course aims to equip delegates with the knowledge and skills to predict and control money flowing in and out of the business.

Marketing Your Business Getting the marketing right for your business is crucial to its success. This workshop will help you to understand your competitors, identify your customers and understand the things you need to consider for effective marketing.

Trading Online This workshop will equip delegates with the knowledge and skills to produce and manage an effective online trading presence. It will also address what is required from a legal and regulatory perspective.

What You Need To Know Before Setting Up A Website A website can be a very important tool for your business, but what should you think about before setting yours up? This halfday workshop is aimed at the complete beginner, or anyone who has been worried about what setting up a website will entail.