Forth valley incommerce issue 9 issuu

INcommerce

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THE FORTH VALLEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

ISSUE 9 • SPRING 2015

ViNE programme bears fruit

see pages 14 and 15 inside

www.forthvalleychamber.co.uk www.stirlingchamber.co.uk

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elcome to our first edition of 2015 and already the Christmas and New Year break seems to have been a long time ago.

We are excited about the year ahead and the possibilities for business, and on pages 4 and 5, you can read the thoughts of Scottish Chambers Chief Executive Liz Cameron OBE on how Scotland can be successful in business this year.

Local business success is being celebrated in our Forth Valley Chamber Business Awards, which are taking place this year at the Doubletree by Hilton Dunblane Hydro. We had an amazing range of entries to the awards this year, and the extremely high standard gave our judging panels a real challenge in selecting their shortlists, and then an eventual winner in each category. Find out about our shortlisted finalists on pages 23.

We want to ensure that the success of our businesses continues into the future so something we will be investing a lot of time in this year is Scotland’s Young Workforce, and the recommendations of the Wood Commission report. In partnership with the local authorities, Stirling University and Forth Valley College, we will be driving forward new initiatives to ensure our young people are work ready but we need your help! We need local employers to join us in creating an industryled programme of change across our schools and we will be putting more information out about how you can get involved in this very soon.

Remember this is your Chamber. We are always happy to hear from members about what works for you and what doesn’t, therefore please do contact us with your feedback and suggestions. We genuinely want to hear from you!

I hope you enjoy reading this edition and I look forward to meeting you at one of our events.

Regards Laurence

Contents When business is successful, Scotland is Successful

4-5

The power of networking

6-7

Wide Eye Marketing

7

Managing People for Performance

8

The passing of time

10-11

Forth Valley Chamber wins national award ViNE programme bears fruit

13 14-15

Research with Impact

16

UA strengthens Executive Team with six new directors

18

Forth Valley Chamber Business Awards 2015

22-25

10 misconceptions about young people and entrepreneurship in Abu Dhabi

26

Analysis and Action

28

Barriers to Business Growth

30-31

Business Mentor Gathering

33

Join Us!

33

New Members’ Profile

36-37

Members’ Register

38-41

Front cover design by IDEAS. Forth Valley Chamber of Commerce, Suite 2, Scion House, Stirling University Innovation Park, Stirling, FK9 4NF. Tel: 01324 665500, www.forthvalleychamber.co.uk InCommerce is published by D-Tech Suite 3.3 Station House, 34 St Enoch Square, Glasgow G1 4DF. Tel: 0141 222 2202 E: info@dtechuk.com. W: www.dtechuk.com.

Edited by Michelle McKearnon, Forth Valley Chamber of Commerce, Suite 2, Scion House, Stirling University Innovation Park, Stirling, FK9 4NF T: 01324 66 55 00 F: 01324 61 76 37 E: michelle@forthvalleychamber.co.uk W: www.forthvalleychamber.co.uk 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 D-Tech.

FORTH VALLEY • SPRING 2015

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BUSINESS NEWS

When business is successful, Scotland is Successful

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cotland had a truly extraordinary year in 2014. The triumph of the Commonwealth Games showed ‘Team Scotland’ at its best. The Ryder Cup was an unqualified success. The national referendum on our future brought a breathtaking voter turn-out, one of the highest ever recorded in a modern democracy.

So the question we face in 2015 is this: how can we build on these achievements and secure further advances for business, our economy, our society and for our quality of life?

I start from the fundamental premise that when business is successful, Scotland is successful.

The past year has seen great advances by the business sector. Despite continuing problems from the financial crisis and problems with funding, there has been a

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surge in new business start-ups. The number of new businesses has risen to a record 30,263, a 19% increase on the 2012 figure.

According to the Scottish government, more than 335,000 businesses are now active in Scotland, the highest total since records began.

Latest figures also show that the overall unemployment rate has fallen to 5.6 % and youth unemployment in Scotland has fallen by over 26%. Female employment has increased by 21,000 over the quarter to reach 1,288,000 – the highest female employment level ever.

How have these impressive employment figures been achieved?

Government statistics show that over the last 12 months, numbers employed by the public sector have decreased by 37,900.

At the same time, employment in the private sector in Scotland increased by 72,900 to 2,048,500. Indeed, the proportion of Scots employed in the private sector is at its highest since records began in 1999.

FORTH VALLEY • SPRING 2015

These figures show that it is Scotland’s private businesses which have had the resilience to cope with the deepest recession in our modern history, and are continuing to succeed in the face of challenges.

So: More people in work. More young people finding opportunities. More women in work. A record number of companies, a rising number of business start-ups, and strong growth in self-employment.

All of these factors help lift people out of poverty, help household incomes, power consumer spending on our high streets, generate more revenue for the government’s social goals, help more people onto the housing ladder, lift our overall economic growth performance, and above all – lift our quality of life.

So I return to the question: how can we build on these achievements and secure further advances for business, our economy, our society and for our quality of life?

An early challenge will be to secure clarity, resolution and speed on the

BUSINESS NEWS

recommendations of the Smith Commission concerning more powers for the Scottish parliament.

Scottish businesses have been extraordinarily patient over a protracted period which saw political attention dominated by constitutional politics.

Throughout the referendum campaign many felt that lip service was paid to the business sector. This has to change.

We need to ensure, not just that we are creating more businesses but that we grow our medium sized businesses into tomorrow’s corporate giants. There is one outstanding truth backed up by research time and time again; the small business sector has led this country out of downturns and recessions.

Businesses are great drivers of innovation – they are adaptable, dynamic, innovative and opportunistic. Truly, without a thriving business sector, our chances of economic and social improvement are slim indeed.

This needs to be recognised in the latest phase of constitutional change. Many of the Smith Commission recommendations – particularly on changes to rates and level of personal taxation - will have wide implications for business. It is vitally important that as the proposals advance towards legislation, there is full and extensive consultation with businesses and business organisations and that we are listened to.

Politics will continue to cast a deep shadow in 2015. The outcome of the general election in May is deeply uncertain, and with a hung parliament likely, we could see legislative gridlock and adverse implications on financial markets.

But amid all these uncertainties we can be sure of one thing: it is the continuing performance of business that will be critical in sustaining further gains in investment and employment, and in generating the tax income that will enable the Scottish government to meet its objectives.

Prominent among these objectives must be continued improvement in education and skills training as the most effective way to address poverty and low incomes. We will work to ensure that the Wood Commission’s recommendations are implemented – and ask every business in Scotland to come on board.

Liz Cameron OBE CEO of Scottish Chambers of Commerce

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MEMBER NEWS

The power of networking

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any people perceive networking as an opportunity to sell their goods and services to people they meet in the course of their networking activities.

Whilst enhanced sales are one of the benefits that can be gained from networking effectively, they are not the be all and end all of networking.

Colin McKeand, co-founder of Coffee ’n’ Commerce, is well-known in networking circles throughout central Scotland. He said: “Networking is all about exchanging

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information. People develop relationships, build trust, help and support each other and, through that process, enhance each other’s potential.

“It is important to realise that not everybody networks purely for the financial return. Many people look for other benefits, some of which will eventually lead to monetary rewards as well.”

• Building strategic alliances and collaboration • Strengthening relationships with existing contacts • Building new relationships • Creating a lasting impression • Improving people skills and confidence • Advancing career opportunities • Even social benefits

Examples may include: • Developing a trusted network of suppliers • Peer group support • Reliable sources of information • Expert business tips and ideas

It was a networking event at Coffee ’n’ Commerce in Falkirk Stadium, where Stacey Spence and Jo Carruthers of Wide Eye Marketing met Tom McAllister (video and photography), Wendy Scott (public relations and social media) and Yvonne Jones

FORTH VALLEY • SPRING 2015

MEMBER NEWS (Internet design and development) and decided to combine their talents to form a partnership to provide a comprehensive suite of marketing expertise to businesses, thus proving the power of networking.

Stacey said, “We are delighted to have met such wonderful, talented people through networking and are already enjoying working together”.

Another company who have benefitted from networking are Chamber members Creation Social Media, who celebrate their company’s fifth birthday next year.

One thing they look back on with more than a passing glance, is the impact that networking has played in their development.

Director Graham Innes commented, “It is fair to say that without networking there is no way we could have established ourselves and met so many fantastic people who have become friends, colleagues, and much more.

Our introduction to networking came when we attended a networking group called Let’s Network. We didn’t get a great deal of business from those early months, but that didn’t matter because the connections we made went on to become invaluable and have been an enormous help in generating referrals and recommendations as the years have gone by.”

Fast forward a few years and Creation Social Media and Let’s Network are now a partnership, working together and thriving and flourishing in a way which Graham and co-director Helen could not have imagined; Inverness, Aberdeen, Copenhagen and an online platform have now been added to the available opportunities with lots more exciting prospects to come.

So why not make it one of your resolutions for 2015 to get out and get networking. As our members have shown, it can bring success in all sorts of ways!

New horizons … l-r Yvonne Jones-Toman, Wendy Scott, Tom McAllister, Jo Carruthers, Stacey Spence

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hamber members Wide Eye Marketing are excited to be celebrating their first birthday this year after a fantastic first year exceeding their year one target to provide services from strategy planning, lead generation, branding, campaign management, consumer insight and research, to a varied client base.

Stacey Spence and Jo Carruthers are the founding members of Wide Eye Marketing and have embraced the butterfly symbol which is their logo to signify new beginnings for their clients.

Stacey said: “We set up WEM when we realised there was a huge gap in the market. Our speciality is in providing structured, no nonsense, back to basics marketing for organisations which can’t afford their own marketing team, or have gaps in their in-house capability.”

Year two looks to be even bigger and better for the company, as the team and services have expanded. Wide Eye are happy to welcome Tom McAllister (video

and photography), Wendy Scott (public relations and social media) and Yvonne Jones (website design and development) to offer a full suite of marketing expertise to companies wanting to promote and grow their business.

Jo added: “Through networking we already had a number of clients with whom we were discussing business opportunities. Within week one of our launch we had already contracted our first client and have since generated a strategy plan for this client based on category data and speaking to 500 consumers. They are now in conversations with their customer base about an exciting major opportunity in their market.”

“This initial opportunity pushed us forward at pace, so with a lot of hard work, marketing, networking and brand awareness we have continued to draw in business throughout year one and into year two.”

The pair is determined to remain true to their values of being passionate, grounded and imaginative whilst looking for a fresh perspective and delivering commercial results for clients.

L-R: Helen Warburton, Colin McKeand and Graham Innes networking.

FORTH VALLEY • SPRING 2015

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BUSINESS NEWS

Managing People for Performance as quickly and painlessly as possible, and isn’t really valued by either. Too often the emphasis is on completing paperwork rather than development planning and continuous improvement.

Perhaps the most common reason for poor performance management in many businesses is the managers’ lack of confidence in their own ability. I have seen many situations of people being promoted into managerial roles and being expected to pick up the skills as they went along! The skills to manage performance do not automatically come with the job. New managers especially need training, not only in what they should do to manage the performance of individuals in their team, they also need to learn the skills necessary to do it effectively.

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he subject of Performance Management is one that is continually being written about in books and articles. A search on Amazon Books using the phrase “Performance Management”, brings up 62000 items over 75 pages!

Conferences and seminars are held to discuss the latest studies and good practice, The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) ran a conference in December 2014 on the subject, and courses on every aspect of the subject are a staple of many training providers.

With so much information and training available, why is it still an issue in many organisations and why do many managers still find managing performance such a problem?

Maybe one of the reasons is that the terms “performance management” and “performance appraisal” are used interchangeably. They are not the same thing.

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Performance Management is an ongoing process and a core responsibility of every team leader, manager, and anyone who has responsibility for managing other people in the workplace. It is about providing leadership and support, developing and growing people to deliver their best performance to achieve individual and business goals.

Good Performance Management helps people know: • what is expected of them in their job, • how they can and do contribute to achieving the goals of the business • what skills and competencies they need to perform well, • how well they’re performing and if there are any issues they need to work on.

Performance Appraisal (also referred to as Performance Review) is a method by which the job performance of an employee is documented and evaluated. It many cases it’s a procedure undertaken once or twice a year, a “box ticking” exercise that both parties want to get over and done with

FORTH VALLEY • SPRING 2015

Managers need to learn the skills necessary to manage performance, specifically • how to identify and agree SMART objectives and development needs • how to communicate effectively with individuals , adapting their style to suit the situation • how to provide regular and meaningful feedback • how to manage poor performance Managers also need regular feedback and ongoing coaching to help them build these skills and the confidence they need to manage performance well.

Having well- trained managers who know the importance of managing performance, how it contributes to the ongoing success of the business and who are committed to making it happen, is key to continuous improvement in every business.

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CHAMBER NEWS

The passing of time and the case of the mysterious gold pocket watch

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FORTH VALLEY • SPRING 2015

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hen the phone rings here at the Chamber, we never know what kind of enquiry might be headed our way but surely the most unusual of 2014 was a call from a gentleman asking for information on the Falkirk Building Society – an organisation which, we found, no longer exists. The caller in question was a Mr (Henry) Anthony Rule, and he had in his possession a gold pocket watch which had been presented to his Great Grandfather, Mr Henry Rule (Snr) in 1912 in recognition of fifty years of service at the Falkirk Building Society.

CHAMBER NEWS

Never ones to resist a challenge we started digging, and with help from researchers at History Dog, we began to piece together the intriguing story of one Falkirk family.

The original recipient of the watch, Henry Rule (Snr) was from Bainsford and a pattern maker with the Falkirk Iron Company for 28 years, before being promoted to Foreman Grate Fitter in 1862.

He began collecting a penny a week from the workforce to establish a local building fund which many of his colleagues used as a means of saving towards a better way of life. This fund grew until Henry, along with a small group of others, founded the Falkirk Building Society of which he was

one of the first directors and then the treasurer up until his death in 1915. His obituary is listed in The Falkirk Herald issue of 9th October 1915 along with a photograph of 4 generations of Henry Rule! In recognition of his services, on the jubilee of the Building Society in 1912, Henry was presented with an inscribed pocket watch which in the course of time passed down to his grandson, Captain Henry Rule of the Royal Scots who wore his grandfather’s watch throughout his life.

Our original caller is the son of Captain Rule and great

Captain Henry Rule.

Mr Anthony Rule.

grandson of Henry Rule (Snr), and he had decided to try and find out more about the watch and the Falkirk Building Society by contacting the Forth Valley Chamber.

Another interesting connection with the area is that one year after the death of Henry Rule (Snr), another bereavement hit the family – that of Hugh MacLean Rule who fell in action in 1916 aged 25, while serving with the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders. We were delighted to be able to forward this line of enquiry to Chamber Members the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders Museum, who are on the case for more records to add to the story.

If any of our readers know more about the Falkirk Building Society or of anything concerning the Rule family history, Anthony would be delighted to find out more. In his 80th year and, he informs us “still going strong” he would like to bequeath the watch to his eldest nephew – a great great grandson of Henry – along with as many details as possible of his Falkirk forebears. If you can help please contact: michelle@forthvalleychamber.co.uk.

FORTH VALLEY • SPRING 2015

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CHAMBER NEWS

Forth Valley Chamber wins national award

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e are delighted to have received a top Government award for our work, and that of our members, in supporting the Armed Forces Community.

The Defence Employer Recognition Silver Award was presented at a dinner in the Great Hall of Edinburgh Castle by Vice Chief of the Defence Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Stuart Peach KCB CBE ADC RAF, in recognition of a range of initiatives developed and supported by the Chamber to encourage local businesses to employ Reservists and ex-forces personnel. Only 30 Silver Awards have been presented in Scotland and as the only Chamber to have been nominated, it is a remarkable coup for a Chamber which has only been in existence for just over two years.

Our CEO Laurence Barrett collected the award on behalf of the Chamber and commented, “It is a tremendous honour for us to receive this award as it reflects the work, not just of the staff, but of the members of Forth Valley Chamber who give of their time and experience to support the Armed Forces Community.

Reservists bring considerable skills to any workforce and are a huge asset to organisations in terms of leadership, management, operations and logistics to name a few. There is a great deal of financial and practical support available to SMEs who employ Reservists and I would urge any small business considering this to look at the help from organisations such as SaBRE (www.sabre.mod.uk) or to contact us for more information.”

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MEMBER NEWS

ViNE

programme bears fruit

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hris Mullin has 17 years’ service in the Armed Forces, and as an Officer, knows a thing or two about managing, organising and leading from the front.

However, when the time came for him to set up his own business back in Civvy Street, he realised just what a daunting prospect it was and was at a loss as to where to begin. Fortunately, Chris’s attention was drawn to the support provided in Scotland by Forth Valley Chamber’s ViNE programme which exists to support Military Veterans and their families into selfemployment.

ViNE was able to support Chris with his business idea to open The Rookery - a Meadery in Perthshire, brewing his own Mead in a range of specialist flavours. We visited Chris the day brewing was about to begin and asked him a few questions.

FV – A Meadery is a pretty unusual business idea. How did it come about?

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FORTH VALLEY • SPRING 2015

Chris – I first became interested in Mead when I was a student at Aberdeen University studying Gaelic studies. I am fascinated by Celtic Civilisations and mythology and of course, Mead has been around in many civilisations for thousands of years. It is the oldest alcoholic drink in the world and I began experimenting with various techniques to brew Mead for family and friends.

FV – So what exactly is Mead, and what are the main ingredients?

Chris – In its simplest form it consists of honey, water and yeast, and it can then be flavoured with a huge variety of ingredients. I use a local supplier for my Scottish honey and forage many of the other ingredients I need from the hills around my home. I am aiming for a Spruce mead in Spring 2015 and use ingredients such as nettle, meadowsweet, mugwort and crab apples, all of which grow locally. If I am brewing a bespoke Mead I may need to import certain ingredients – for example my Winter Mead contains frankincense which I import from Oman – but generally it is all locally grown and foraged.

MEMBER NEWS

FV – What persuaded you to move from brewing for friends to a full commercial operation, and what challenges does this bring?

Chris – In my military career I spent a lot of years managing and organising other people. I wanted a change. I wanted to do something for myself and be in a job where I could be more hands on, and more in control of how I spent my time. It made sense to develop my passion for Mead into a business idea and scale up my operations, but this does mean making a lot of changes to create an efficient production process. I am looking at using a new cooler process instead of the more labour intensive and energy expensive boiling system, and obviously, I need a lot more room for brewing and storage. I am aiming to brew 6,500 to 8,000 litres per year over 4 or 5 brews so have had to move out of the kitchen and into bigger facilities.

FV – What have been the biggest challenges in starting your own business and what help have you received?

Chris – Just not knowing where to start first was incredibly difficult, but the help from the ViNE programme was invaluable in that respect. I was able to access start-up funding from another Military support organisation, XForces, and Perth Council have gone out of their way to help me with premises and all the Food and Safety regulations I needed. Everything has gone at a million miles an hour and I am loving being rushed off my feet. Fortunately my time in the military has prepared me well for working long hours and facing challenges!

FV – What plans do you have for the future for The Rookery?

Chris – I will be doing lots of tastings with stockists over the next few months, and am hoping to develop the bespoke side of the business, brewing unique Meads for weddings for example, or for family celebrations. As long as I can get the ingredients which someone asks for, I can brew it and brand it as a very original and unusual gift. My head is full of new recipes and ideas and I can’t wait to see what next year brings.

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BUSINESS NEWS

Research with Impact

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he University of Stirling, Scotland’s university in the Forth Valley and a proud member of the Forth Valley and Stirling Chambers, is delighted to update fellow members on University news, research and activities relevant to businesses.

A second study saw scientists develop sustainable alternatives to marine fish oil. Fish act as the primary source of omega-3 nutrients in our diets, helping to prevent cardiovascular and neurological diseases. High levels of omega-3 can be assured in farmed fish by adding marine fish oil to their feeds, but it became clear that demand for fish oil would rapidly outstrip supply if alternatives were not introduced. Stirling researchers developed the use of vegetable oil as a replacement for fish oil in fish feed, maintaining the nutritional quality of farmed fish and offering a timely solution that has been employed across the global fish farming industry.

Based on collaborative research and development projects such as these, the University has recently secured over £11m of Scottish Government funding on behalf of a major industry and academic consortium to establish the Scottish Aquaculture Innovation Centre (SAIC). SAIC is headquartered in Scion House on Stirling University Innovation Park and exists to support the growth, sustainability and profitability of the Scottish aquaculture industry through harnessing the power of industry-led applied research.

As we enter 2015, the University looks forward to enhancing yet further our partnership with businesses.

At the end of 2014, the University of Stirling celebrated an outstanding performance in the UK-wide Research Excellence Framework (REF2014). Almost 75% of research in the University was rated either world-leading or internationally excellent, with particular strengths in Aquaculture, Health Sciences, Business & Management, Psychology and Social Policy. The University now ranks within the top 50 research-intensive universities in the UK. Excellence in research is not, however, an end in itself. It is the engine that drives the university’s very substantial contribution to the Stirling, Scottish, UK and global economies. We provide over 500 highly-skilled jobs for academic researchers, while our students graduate with skills informed by cutting-edge knowledge in their subjects. This importance of this to employers is reflected in exceptional demand for our graduates, 94% of whom are in employment or further study within six months of leaving university.

A new component of the REF2014 assessment process, ‘Impact’, was introduced to evaluate the impact of universities’ research outside academia – including change or benefit to the economy, Further information: society, culture, public policy, services, health, the environment or http://www.stir.ac.uk/ref2014/, http://scottishaquaculture.com/ quality of life. Stirling’s score for Impact was particularly strong, @Stir_Research, research@stir.ac.uk reflecting the University’s longstanding commitment to delivering research that makes a real world difference.

University of Stirling Research excellence is also REF Highlights central to the University’s role as a hub for business innovation. A key example of this lies in our worldMoved into the top 50 for UK leading aquaculture research. This Research Intensive Universities. has developed methods to minimise Rated top 25 in the UK for 45th in UK, 6th in Scotland Business and Management the damaging impact of sea lice – parasites that kill huge numbers of salmon and cost the global fishing industry more than €305 million each year. Scientists in the University’s Institute of Aquaculture (IoA) created an integrated pest management strategy, which Psychology Impact Ranked 4th in the UK for Agriculture, Veterinary and 1 of only 4 Universities with includes the use of wrasse, small Food Science Psychology research rated as fish which clean the farmed salmon. having 100% World-leading Impact This strategy has been adopted in the UK and across all other major salmon producing countries, reducing the economic impact of sea lice, supporting sustainability University in Scotland for Health Sciences and protecting fish welfare.

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Ceteris (Scotland) Ltd are delighted to have been shortlisted as a finalist for “Best Large Business” in Forth Valley.

We were established in 1991 and our purpose as a not for profit organisation is to support businesses in Clackmannanshire and the surrounding regions by providing them with affordable/flexible business property, business support (through our Business Gateway contract) and provide conference and meeting room facilities at the spectacular Gean House and throughout our Business Centres.

Our staff make our business the success it is and all areas of the business work well together complimenting and encouraging growth to let us continue our objectives.

Electrical Contracting Division Renewables Division Electrical Testing Division Elctromechanical services

Based in Central Scotland, we cover the whole of the UK for our clients

E: Property@ceteris.co.uk T: 01259 721454 W: www.ceteris.co.uk

@CeterisUK @CeterisLtd

Call: 01786 448562 email: info@mresstirling.co.uk www.mresstirling.co.uk

MEMBER NEWS

UA strengthens Executive Team with six new Directors

U

nited Auctions has strengthened its Executive Team with the appointment of six new Directors as part of the Company’s succession planning.

Scotland’s leading livestock auctioneers have promoted Auctioneers David Brown, George Purves, John Roberts, Matt Stevenson and Donald Young to Group Sales Directors while Christopher Sharp becomes Administration Director.

The new team of Directors has a greater role and responsibility in shaping and achieving the strategic objectives of

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the Company.They will work alongside Group Joint Managing Directors Neil McLean and Robin Tough, and Executive Chairman David Leggat who have led the Company since completing an MBO in 2007.Together, the new Executive Team represents some 170 years in agriculture.

UA’s Executive Chairman David Leggat said: “We’re pleased to see this experienced group joining the board to further strengthen the business going forward. It’s testament to how seriously we take our professional training and development programme that we’re able to look within the Company to find leadership talent with the right skills, contacts and knowledge at this level.”

FORTH VALLEY • SPRING 2015

In addition to their new executive duties, the team will continue their current remits. David Brown and John Roberts deal with the commercial and pedigree cattle sales, including the prestigious Stirling Bull Sales.George Purves and Matt Stevenson lead UA’s sheep sales with Mr Purves heading up Prime Sheep Sales and Mr Stevenson in charge of Store Sheep Sales while Donald Young manages the North of Scotland. Christopher Sharp has a BA (Hons) in Business and heads up the Group’s admin function.

All the Directors are members of the Institute of Auctioneers and have completed the Scottish Enterprise Rural Leadership Programme.

Helping our clients make strategic decisions for nearly a century.

Condies Chartered Accountants and Business Advisers: 10 Abbey Park Place, Dunfermline KY12 7NZ Tel: 01383 721421 Forth House 28 Rutland Square Edinburgh EH1 2BW T: (0131) 603 7628

E: info@condie.co.uk

www.condie.co.uk

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SpectrumTM has been trialed extensively since 2006 and is effective in the treatment of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and other stress related problems. The results are measurable and supported by research. Over 4000 individuals, many of whom include Services personnel and veterans, have achieved very positive results.

SpectrumTM Emotional Coaching is also proving successful in other areas of health and wellbeing such as addiction, smoking cessation, weight loss, anxiety and depression.

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

WORKING TOWARDS THE RIGHT FINANCIAL CHOICES FOR YOU

PENSION GAME-CHANGER And it goes on.....

The ability to pass on pension wealth doesn’t stop there. The nominated beneficiary can then nominate their own successor to take over the pension fund following their death This will allow pension wealth to cascade down the generations, whilst continuing to enjoy the favourable tax treatment of pension investments.

Tax Rate Determined by Age at Last Death

IN DECEMBER OF LAST YEAR, full details on the planned changes to be introduced as part of the Governments Pension Reforms were finally confirmed.

This can be only what I describe as a game-changer as to the way in which many of us will look at saving for our retirement. We have tried to encapsulate some of the main points for you within this article.

Unrestricted Access to Pensions From April 2015, the new pension rules will allow individual pension savers over the age of 55 to take their pension benefits in any way they choose, meaning should they wish to do so, take the whole pot as a lump sum.

They may get 25% of their pension fund tax free with the remaining fund taxed at their marginal rate.

Each time a pension fund is inherited by a beneficiary, the tax rate will be reset by the age at death of the last account holder.

For example Joe, a widower, dies age 82 and nominated his son John to receive his flexi-access drawdown fund. As Joe died after age 75, John is taxable at his marginal rate on any income withdrawals.

John sadly dies age 70 and leaves the remaining fund to his daughter Jenny. Jenny can take withdrawals from her successor’s drawdown account tax free as John died before 75.

Free No Obligation Meeting If you would like a free no obligation meeting to discuss the full details of these new reforms, then please do not hesitate to get in touch.

Antonine Investment Managers Suite 3B, The Hub, Beancross Road, Grangemouth FK3 8WH T: 01324 478 248 E: info@antonineim.co.uk www.antonineim.com

Pension Wealth – Keeping it in the Family The new legislation will also allow individuals who have a Personal Pension to nominate an individual to inherit their remaining pension fund on their passing, as a ‘nominee’s flexi-access drawdown account’.

This can be anyone at any age and is no longer restricted to their ‘dependants’. Adult children who have long flown the nest can now benefit and don’t have to wait until 55 to access it.

If the original member dies after age 75, any withdrawals will be taxed at the beneficiary’s marginal rate. But if death occurs before age 75, the nominated beneficiary has a pot of money they can access at any time completely tax free. In either case, the funds are outside the beneficiary’s estate for Inheritance Tax while they remain within the pension account and will continue to enjoy tax free growth.

Craig Gillon APFS, Director

FORTH VALLEY • SPRING 2015

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Forth Valley Chamber Business Awards 2015

Meet the finalists!

A

huge thank you to all of the businesses, large and small, which have taken part in our 2015 Business Awards. Our judges had an unenviable task in whittling down all the entries, and you can read about the entries which have been shortlisted overleaf. The range of businesses which took part was amazing and demonstrates the variety and innovation which exists in the Forth Valley Business community.

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FORTH VALLEY • SPRING 2015

BEST E-COMMERCE STRATEGY Labels4Kids Shark Dog

BEST MICRO BUSINESS

Tartan Golf Bags

Life Fit Wellness Astute Facilities Management

BEST GREEN BUSINESS

Moray Robertson Electrical Services Ltd

Central Demolition GreenPower International Ltd

BEST SMALL BUSINESS

iPower Energy Ltd

(sponsored by STEP) YouTrain Ltd Ecosse Holdings Ltd Site Sealants

YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR (sponsored by Campbell’s Prime Meat) Josh Quigley of Shark Dog Bruce Walker of We are the Future

BEST LARGE BUSINESS

Andrew Jenkin of Africa on the Ball

(sponsored by Forth Valley College) Central Demolition MacDonald Inchyra Hotel and Spa Ceteris

BEST START UP BUSINESS

ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR (sponsored by Campbell’s Prime Meat)

Karen Sommerville of Angels’ Share Glass Stuart Beattie of Becon Project Mangement & Consultancy Ltd Stuart Rennie of Consulting Ltd

The Lead Generation Company Energylinx for Business Ltd We are the Future

BEST FAMILY BUSINESS

(sponsored by Family Business Solutions) Tilly Confectionery Ltd

EXCELLENCE IN CUSTOMER SERVICE (sponsored by Stirling Council)

The Oak Tree Inn Great Time Scotland

The Oak Tree Inn McDowell & Company (Leemic) Contract Scotland Ltd

MOST INNOVATIVE PRODUCT/SERVICE (sponsored by the University of Stirling) Allen Associates (HPE) Ltd Later Life Training Ltd iQ Chocolate Ltd FORTH VALLEY • SPRING 2015

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We are now getting ready for a wonderful night of celebration at our gala dinner and awards ceremony on March 19th at the DoubleTree by Hilton Dunblane Hydro. A menu devised by celebrity chef Nick Nairn will be on offer, and our compere for the night is the hugely popular forensic mind-reader Colin Cloud.

An event such as this wouldn’t be possible without support from our sponsors, and we are grateful to the Ministry of Defence for being our main sponsors on the night. Speaking on behalf of the Armed Forces Brigadier Paul Harkness MBE, Commander 51st Infantry Brigade commented, “I am delighted that we are able to continue supporting the Forth Valley Chamber of Commerce Business Awards. I am looking forward to continuing the developing relationships with both the Chamber and the local business community as we strengthen our partnerships across the region.”

We asked our category sponsors for their thoughts on the Business Awards and what it means to them to support the event.

Stirling University Sponsors of Most Innovative Product or Service Universities are all about ideas.

At the University of Stirling our research is focused on discovering innovative solutions to complex economic and social challenges while our programmes of learning and teaching equip our students to be enterprising and think creatively.

Entrepreneurship and innovation are at the heart of what we do as an organisation so it is natural for us to sponsor the Most Innovative Product or Service award. The Forth Valley Chamber Business Awards celebrate the success, ingenuity and vibrancy of our local business community and the University is proud to be an award sponsor. For our award we hope to see an outstanding idea which is being turned into an excellent business offer.

Campbells Prime Meat Sponsors of Young Entrepreneur of the Year and Entrepreneur of the Year Campbells has been a family run business for over 100 years and is renowned for supplying an extensive range of fresh meat, fresh fish and delicatessen products to the catering and hospitality industry. The company has had entrepreneurial spirit within the family since its early beginnings and through every generation. It is a big step to work for yourself and we are keen to encourage young entrepreneurs to take this important step. The future of any business lies with young entrepreneurs who have the intellect and courage to take risks and it is our responsibility and desire to support and guide them. The recipients of both of our awards should demonstrate strong leadership which is a combination of good products, good service, profitability, cash flow, the ability to motivate staff to work together, charm customers, make good decisions quickly and under pressure and stay positive.

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FORTH VALLEY • SPRING 2015

STEP Sponsors of Best Small Business As a business support organisation in Stirling, we are here to offer local businesses the support they need to start, grow and prosper.

We are therefore delighted to be sponsoring the Best Small Business Award Category at this year’s Awards in celebration of the achievements of our ambitious, growing local businesses and the overall contribution they make to the Forth Valley economy. The Forth Valley Chamber Awards are an excellent way to recognise business excellence across the region and we congratulate all who participated and wish the best of luck to those who have been shortlisted.

Forth Valley College Sponsors of Best Large Business Forth Valley College is delighted to be sponsoring the Best Large Business category.

As Forth Valley’s local community college we are proud of our excellent working relationships with local businesses. Through effective employer engagement we are able to ensure we provide our students with the skills and knowledge appropriate for the demands of today’s and tomorrow’s industry and businesses. Our mission is Making Learning Work and we look forward to seeing entries from businesses focused on investing in the training and development of their workforce

Stirling Council Sponsors of Excellence in Customer Service.

As an organisation dealing one to one with people every day we fully understand exactly how important excellent customer service is for businesses. It underpins everything else that a business is about and is absolutely key in ensuring success or otherwise. Stirling Council is currently engaged in a wide-ranging programme of activity to enhance opportunities for business across the area and we are delighted to be part of the Forth Valley Chamber Business Awards, which both recognise and promote excellent practice.We are particularly pleased to sponsor an award that recognises something as fundamental as customer service, and look forward to hearing from a winner who has excelled in this field.

Family Business Solutions Sponsors of Best Family Business Running a business of any sort is complicated and tough. But when your family are also employees, board members, shareholders or simply “have an interest in what goes on” then the issues and challenges to be faced can grow exponentially! On the other hand family are also the business’s greatest strengths. They invest for the long term, they make sacrifices when the going gets tough and they go the extra mile.

Our family businesses are the backbone of the Scottish Economy and deserve to be celebrated!

Colin Cloud Look at your hands. Your nails. The heels of your shoes. What do you see?

Nothing?

Imagine someone who could look at those details and see everything. Everything!

Only, you don’t have to imagine. Because this is precisely what Colin Cloud does.

He’ll know what you’ve had for lunch, where you’ve been that day, what you do for a living, the car your drive, even your PIN code. He’ll read you like a book. He’s already sure you’re quite the page turner.

Mind reader and spoon-bender Uri Geller described him as “One of the greatest thought readers of all time.” His peers say he’s the next Derren Brown, the media have described him as the real life Sherlock, and witnesses don’t say much as they’re usually left speechless.

He’s the Holmes of entertainment, if Holmes had a flair for comedy. He’s the deductionist of hypnotism, the Great Detective of live events.

Colin Cloud is the best and maybe even the wisest man you’ve ever known. Cloud has performed for professional sceptics like Penn and Teller. He has wowed the hardto-please Simon Cowell. He has certainly left people convinced that he does indeed have mystical skills of reading minds and influencing outcomes.

Performer, consultant, coach, comedian: the entertaining and endearing Colin Cloud is a forensic mind reader and you know you want to see him.

What’s more – he knows it too!

In 2014, Colin was awarded the Psychic Entertainer Association Award for creativity in the art of Mentalism and also the year in which he correctly predicted the precise Tweets of five well known celebrities a week in advance. You think that’s impressive? Then wait and see what he has in store for this year and the 2015 Forth Valley Chamber Business Awards.

FORTH VALLEY • SPRING 2015

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10

MEMBER NEWS

misconceptions about young people and entrepreneurship in Abu Dhabi

I

t’s impossible to travel to somewhere unfamiliar such as Abu Dhabi, in the United Arab Emirates, without conceiving various thoughts as to what to expect. If you’ve not been there yourself then stop, close your eyes and try and imagine the scene before reading on.

I was asked to speak at WeAreTheFuture’s first Middle East youth entrepreneurship summit which was held in partnership with Abu Dhabi University. The two day event was anchored by WeAreTheFuture regional ambassador Stuart Morris and comprised talks by local successful entrepreneurs and a pitching competition “The Idea Factory”, for 14 to 22 year olds. An audience of 250 attended with many arriving after a three hour drive.

Now let’s visit some of my misconceptions; 1. Most of the young entrepreneurs will be male Of the 54 teams that entered the pitching competition over 65% were female. This apparently is the norm in the UAE. Possibly due to the fact that male candidates find it easier to secure employment opportunities and thus young women are more likely to look at self-employment as an option.

2. Language will be an issue Not the slightest. All bar one of the 54 presentations were given in perfect English.

3. Technology will not be as prominent here as in Europe Well I presented on stage in front of the largest screen I’ve ever used, with my voice clearly heard around the auditorium through a state of the art sound system and the whole event was videoed. The audience used smart phones and the winning prizes were all tech.

4. As many of the pitches were given by children of school age the ideas would be simplistic, eg. to create toys / games or perhaps study aids This idea was firmly hit on the head when a

26

WeAreTheFuture as we would not be charging participants to attend the event We used profits generated at our recent Edinburgh summit and local sponsorship which Stuart Morris was able to secure, but let’s look at costs young man of 16 years stood up in front of us and pitched the creation and introduction of a new Bitcoin exchange platform for the UAE. He then proceeded to cover such revenue generations streams as “Arbitrage”.

5. The attendees at the event would be quiet, modest and reserved Not the slightest these future stars were going to make the most of their time with us.

Speakers were questioned, ideas challenged and all done in a supportive and fun way. And this was truer for the girls than the boys.

6. Securing local speakers able to inspire and motivate the audience would be hard Meet Farah Al Qaissieh, Founder and CEO of Discover Dhabi, Jaafar al Aydaroos Founder of Upscale Decor Peter Litvin of Fortress Partners and Fatima Shirawi Founder of the Gracious F. And let’s not forget Mohamed Hamdy of incubatorTurn8 who was wonderful with the young would be entrepreneurs.

7. Incubators, Accelerators and Funding would be uncommon in the region Incubators and Accelerators started to open here last year and I met with representatives of Turn8, TwoFour54 and Flat6Labs all of whom follow models very familiar to us in Europe/US. All the Incubators & Accelerators are interested to invest and would welcome European entrepreneurs.

8. University staff would be formal in the approach I honestly thought that in a conservative country as the UAE this would be the case instead I had the pleasure of spending two days with a fabulous team at Abu Dhabi University where I laughed more than at any other event as we worked as a seamless team to deliver an extraordinary event.

9. Running the event would be a major drain on the thin finances at

FORTH VALLEY • SPRING 2015

• Flights: Our tickets were sponsored

by Etihad Airlines who will soon be flying direct from Edinburgh to Abu Dhabi • Hotel: Great find by Stuart and we stayed in luxury at the Aloft for £50 per head per night • Expenses: Eating out was less expensive than at home and taxis are incredibly cheap If you’d like to join our list of global sponsors and partners for future events then drop me an email at russell@wearethefuture.org.uk 10. Such an event would attract little press coverage in the region I’ve never been more wrong. The event was covered in the top selling publications across the region including Gulf News and The National. This achievement was surely aided

by WeAreTheFuture regional ambassador Stuart Morris who secured royal patronage for the event from Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan, Minister of Culture, Youth and Community Development. Thanks also to the Herald for highlighting our achievement.

And in the end So what did I learn from my few days in Abu Dhabi regarding the entrepreneurial landscape? Well for starters one exists J and the young people of the UAE are just as imaginative, driven and hard working as those in Europe and the US. Once again I witnessed first-hand the similarities between young people around the world and not the differences. The opportunities in the UAE are enormous and although there are challenges there are also opportunities, so I’m very optimistic. www.wearethefuture.org.uk www.abudhabisummit.com Report on WeAreTheFuture Edinburgh summit 2014

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BUSINESS NEWS

Analysis and Action …the reason for management

I

t is truly hard to exaggerate potential bottom-line impact wherever the core reason and mission for management is applied in culture and practice.

Performance accountability, effectively owned and applied in control analysis and action, constitutes one of the highest standards in management development, yielding some of the most dramatic results.

Examples arising from enabling this standard include: sales results in customer spend and conversion, profit results in cost and added value, business retention results in customers, products, and distributors, human resource results in staff retention, progression, leadership, and team performance, growth, and indeed survival results in investment and innovation, marketing results in proposition development and compliance standards.

Commonly the ‘economy’ and the ‘market’ get the best sound bites when explaining results, raising questions of the level of real control we have and exercise, and the value or return we could be getting from management costs.

Direction and management however, should remain top in the control stakes since their control exists on the three levels of strategy, initiative and response. Even when it appears “external” factors are calling the shots, it falls on direction and management to set and review strategy, initiate contingencies, and respond timeously and effectively to wider elements.

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Such is the potential for management impact on total performance, but we need to be clear about our expectation and definition of management. When you appoint management you are effectively buying the essential practice of control analysis and action. However, from small businesses to large corporations, two things indicate this is not always realised. First, one of the top issues for investors and lenders is confidence in management control. Second, managers often work under adopted roles without opportunity to understand and embrace accountability for commercial and other key performance.

Management standards and performance is both a sensitive yet crucial issue, and addressing it requires some ground rules in empathy and objectivity. First, this is a matter of role, not competence, until proven otherwise; and so we first need to reveal and remove the obstacles to securing management in its proper role and contribution. Secondly, targets and other key objectives are often the constant victims of failing to realise full management potential; and so in the pursuit of prosperity, and for some, survival, this standard is non-negotiable.

Unique challenges to securing this benchmark can arise from: the different routes individuals have taken to management including, but not exclusively, entrepreneurial and family businesses, confusing management terminology, assumptions of existing control, management roles diminished by questionable priorities, and even the

FORTH VALLEY • SPRING 2015

common misconception that bottom-line performance is the accountant’s job.

There are two key steps to enabling this standard: identifying performance accountability, and implementing standards and processes for effective analysis and action. Whilst there is work involved it is not rocket science, so don’t be deterred by perceptions of complexity or cost. You can utilise springboard models to help identify your own needs and support your own development, or get a snapshot review of current performance objectives management as a starting point. Alternatively you might opt for fast track analysis and action projects.

Whatever path you choose, aim for management performance you would be proud to give account for in value and strength: where management contribution earns profit, secures a non-profit mission, provides employment, leaves an inheritance, discovers an innovation, or simply discovers potential. Aspire to securing a management powerhouse of sound analysis and action: denying the ‘economy’ and the ‘market’ undue control, isolating the true and proportionate causes of shortfall, distinguishing reasons from theories or excuses, and rescuing the controllable from the inevitable.

In times where commercial demands, compliance, and a host of other requirements increase at staggering pace, interventions are called for to secure culture and practice which empowers management as a force for positive bottom-line impact.

Bill Andrew Andrew Management

ADVERTISING FEATURE

EMPLOYERS HELP TOWARDS DELIVERING THE FUTURE RESERVE FORCES

by HRFCA chief executive, AK Miller

O

n 3rd July the Secretary of State for Defence, Philip Hammond transferable skills – in particular with the Services contributing towards a MP, launched the Future Reserves 2020 White Paper. This laid out Reservist’s personal development in areas such as leadership, motivation the Government’s intent for the future Reserve Forces to form a fully and commitment. integrated part of the UK’s Defence capability. A vigorous partnership with Building an enduring relationship with employers is seen as key. employers is seen as key to achieving a balanced and flexible relationship Regional engagement will be led by the Reserve Forces and Cadet’s together with delivering mutual benefits.

Associations on behalf of Defence, with engagement priorities set by the Defence’s requirement will be 0.15 per cent of the working population, Armed Services. The SaBRE campaign with its website and helpline will so the burden on employers is expected to be manageable. The Defence continue to provide advice and support. A new National Relationship intent is to improve the utility of the Reserves as part of the UK’s defence Management Scheme is being developed to handle the national level capability; they will be better trained engagement with the focus on and equipped, and have a higher employer organisations and major expectation of deployment across employers in the private and public a wider spectrum of operations. sectors.

However, this is not expected to Whilst providing direct support result in higher levels of mobilisation to Reserves is of paramount and in the majority of cases there importance, the longer term intent will be substantially longer warning is to develop the wider relationship * Reservists to be trained in Employer Relationships times given to employers of their that Defence has with all employers, * All reservists to declare Reserve Service to their employer reservist’s training and operational whether that be to assist the * Anti-Disadvantage data capture of Reservists who feel commitments. transition of Regular personnel to discriminated against due to their Reserve Service can register The White Paper addresses the civilian workplace, meeting the on Anti-Disadvantage on SaBRE website – no legislation at this key issues raised by employers in defence industrial requirement, or stage the earlier consultation exercise the promotion of Service Cadets to * Civilian accreditation of Reservist training – implemented in and delivers some substantial employers. Over the next five years 2014 benefits for employers that include the delivery of this new Reserve * Employer financial awards (Defence Reform Bill 2013) will an improved financial package.

Force will make a key contribution augment current awards that can be claimed from 1st April Several areas of work are still under to Britain’s future security and the 2014 development. Emphasis will be contribution made by employers is * SMEs to receive £500 per month for each reservist mobilised placed on communications with seen as a vital element to this. * Application by employers for financial awards simplified employers, bringing employers * Employer Recognition Scheme enhanced – anonymity if into a closer partnership with the required Services. Both will gain benefit from * Reservists exempt from two-year qualifier for application to Employment Tribunal * Corporate Covenant – sets out behaviour required of both Defence and employers * National Relationship Management Scheme to be developed to enable coherent engagement with employer organisations, trade bodies and large employers (RFCAs replicate at regional level) * Work with employer bodies and education sector to develop opportunities for reservists HRFCA chief executive, AK Miller

EMPLOYER/EMPLOYEE (RESERVIST) MEASURES BEING IMPLEMENTED

MEMBER NEWS

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hen new members join the Chamber they are directed to a quick business survey to give us their thoughts on some of the issues surrounding business today. This information is vital in helping us understand the concerns of the members and how we, as a Chamber, can address these concerns.

Barriers to Business Growth Chamber Members’ Survey

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FORTH VALLEY • SPRING 2015

The graphs overleaf provide a snapshot of the most commonly perceived barriers to business growth with finding customers, obtaining finance and local competition being the top three. Two areas which saw a big increase from 2013 to 2014 were problems in finding appropriate premises and, interestingly, issues around personal health and wellbeing, the latter perhaps reflecting the stress caused by dealing with all the others!

Accessible business support also saw a big rise from 47% in 2013 to 71% in 2014, and this is an area where business support organisations across the Forth Valley must work together to provide a more joined-up service for our business community. As a Chamber we work closely with our colleagues at STEP in Stirling and Ceteris in Alloa to deliver joint events and share expertise and best practice wherever possible.

The area which has seen the biggest fall in concern is that of using social media. As more and more of the “older” generation get to grips with Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and other popular social media platforms, and the new young digital natives begin to make their presence felt in the workforce, it is anticipated that social media will become less of a challenge to businesses and more of an accepted way of trading.

Forth Valley Chamber will be putting on a series of events to address the issues highlighted by our members, so please, check our website/Twitter/Facebook/ LinkedIN pages regularly for updates on the events programme and how you can engage with us to be part of the voice of the business community.

MEMBER NEWS

Perceived barriers to Business Growth 0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Recruiting staff

Which of these potential Obtaining finance barriers to the growth of your business have Finding appropriate premises you encountered during Working capital/Cash-­‐ flow problems the last year, and what impact did they have?

Credit Control system

Accessible business support/advice Strategic planning Training staff Finding customers Customer follow-­‐up and care Personal leadership skills Trading online Use of social media Local competition Overseas competition Increased regulation Personal health/wellbeing Staff health/wellbeing

2013

2014

FORTH VALLEY • SPRING 2015

31

GRANGEMOUTH LEITH DUNDEE ROSYTH KIRKCALDY BURNTISLAND METHIL TILBURY FORTH PORTS SCOTLAND’S LOGISTICAL GATEWAY TO THE WORLD CALL US: 01324 668 400

FORTHPORTS.CO.UK

Learn a trade, EARN YOUR FUTURE SCOTS GAS TRAINING LTD is a new innovative training company in Stirling. We offer a wide range of gas and plumbing assessments, no matter if you are new to the industry or you are a seasoned professional requiring re-assessments, we are geared to help you keep on earning.

The need for qualified gas engineers is always great, and with this comes the possibility of earning a fair salary. As a fully qualified Gas Engineer you have the opportunity of joining a company with a respected trade or starting off working for yourself selling and re-selling your trade far and wide.

For those candidates wishing join the gas industry we offer The BPEC Gas Foundation course the only truly respected and recognized route into the industry. Plumbing and refrigeration tradesmen who wish to enter the gas industry we offer the Logic Certified APL domestic gas course. All our courses are nationally recognized as a path to Gas Safe registration.

WHAT’S ON OFFER?

With Scots Gas Training Ltd, we are accredited by nationally recognised certification bodies such as LOGIC Certification and BPEC, this means that our candidates can trust the certificates as a true route to Gas Safe registration. Scots Gas Training Ltd offers practical flexible training to suit your needs, be it full time study, part time training, weekend preparation or online instruction you will enjoy our fully committed staff members who are always ready and able to assist you to learn and achieve.

START DATES TO SUIT YOUR NEEDS

Unlike many ‘Training Centres’ we shall organise your start date and timetable to suit your needs. The only pre-course requirement is a candidate who is willing to go the extra mile to attain his/her goals. Scots Gas Training Ltd offers an up to date nationally accredited training centre in central Scotland in Stirling Scotland just off the M9 motorway.

Scots Gas Training Ltd unit 125, Stirling Enterprise Park, Stirling FK7 7RP f: 01786 474 187 m: 0775 263 8702 www.scotsgastrainingltd.co.uk

EMAIL US: MARKETING@FORTHPORTS.CO.UK

For all your accountancy and taxation needs

•

Accounts

•

Audit

•

Tax

•

Payroll

•

VAT

•

Business Plans

•

Record Keeping & Office Support Services Head Office 20 BARNTON STREET STIRLING FK8 1NE 01786 474718 ALSO AT BONNYBRIDGE, AUCHTERARDER & CALLANDER

headoffice@dicksonmiddleton.co.uk www.dicksonmiddleton.co.uk

BUSINESS PAGE HEADER NEWS

Business Mentor Gathering January 2015 Martin Robertson of “We are Business Transformers”

W

e need a collective noun for a group of mentors! someone suggested a “Magnificence of Mentors” – I am leaning more towards a “Marvel”. All suggestions welcomed.

Forth Valley mentors are indeed marvellous. They give their time and expertise freely to help businesses flourish.

It was therefore with delight that we organised a workshop and lunch for them this January. Bob McGowan and Martin Robertson, two of our very experienced

mentors, very kindly offered to facilitate two sessions; one on the challenges of being a mentor , the other on the challenges faced by businesses. Everyone participated and there was a lively exchange of views.

Mentoring is the process by which one person assists another to grow and learn in a safe and sympathetic relationship.

The mentor is generally a successful peer or someone considered to be more experienced. The mentors at the workshop were unanimous in their opinion that getting together and sharing ideas was very worthwhile and a second session will be organised for May.

Forth Valley Chamber of Commerce is part of the Scottish Chamber of Commerce Business Mentoring programme, and can match you with an experienced business mentor, free of charge. If you are a business with a minimum of £100K annual turnover and an aspiration to grow, then this could be the programme for you. We would also like to hear from would be mentors, so if you can offer your time and skills to an up and coming company and want to be involved then please contact Dorothy Henke for more information dorothy@forthvalleychamber.co.uk

Forth Valley Chamber of Commerce and Stirling Chamber of Commerce

JOIN US

WHAT’S IN IT FOR ME? • A FREE member profile ad in this magazine, hard copy and digital versions • A FREE listing in our member directories, online and hard copy • Discounted advertising in INCommerce and our monthly ezine • Discounted entry to social and business events • Access to member-to-member discounts and special offers • Access to specialised Chamber products and services which will save you money • Business to Business networking opportunities • Warm referrals and positive connections to business contacts

Do the maths! Membership of the Chamber helps your business to save money and to make money.

We’re here to help. Talk to us.

HOW DO I JOIN? It’s easy.

You can join online by going to our websites

www.forthvalleychamberofcommerce.co.uk or www.stirlingchamberchamberofcommerce.co.uk and clicking the blue Join Us Now button. Or call us on 01324 66 55 00 and a member of the team will be happy to come out and chat with you.

• Promotion via our social media feeds • Be part of the fastest-growing Chamber in Scotland • Access to the Scotland-wide Chamber network • An independent business voice represented at National Government level.

FORTH VALLEY • SPRING 2015

33

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Antartex Village is a trading name of The Woollen Mill Limited, office Waverley Mills, Langholm, Dumfriesshire, DG13 0EB. NoEdinburgh SC024081, registered registered in Scotland, Lomond Industrial Estate, Alexandria,a company G83 0TP. TEL: 01389 752393 No SC024081, registered office Waverley Mills, Langholm, Dumfriesshire, DG13 0EB. • FREE PARKING • OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

GOLF CLOTHING ANY TIME YOU SHOP WITH US Antartex Village is a trading name of The Edinburgh Woollen Mill Limited, a company registered in Scotland, No SCO24081, registered office Waverley Mills, Langholm, Dumfriesshire, DG13 0EB.

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Tel: 01324 627 772

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Lomond Audi Fleet 2015 HAPPY NEW YEAR to all within the Chambers, we hope it will be prosperous year for all businesses.

Audi UK are bracing themselves for a very busy year and our job as the Fleet Team is to communicate the Brand changes and developments throughout the year and we hope to do that in a fun and understand way, leaving out the jargon!

We had an exciting Quarter 4 with the New TT Launch, the Fleet Team held a VIP Event at One Devonshire Gardens on Thanks Giving, giving customers a warm welcome in luxury surroundings, American themed canapĂŠs and a bright unveiling of the new TT model, which with the Ultra engine will put the TT in a new light within the business car choice, having a co2 of 110g and Lomond Glasgow have acquired additional allocation to facilitate the demand.

Our Fleet Team has gone from strength to strength with a phenomenal year, not only in supplying our clients in Scotland, but with an extremely healthy increase in establishing Customer Agreements with Audi, giving the customers additional support off invoice or contract hire rentals.

New updates on models coming through are A6, A1 and Q3 with a facelift and engine enhancement being named PI Models and in Quarter 1 the Q7 PI Model will be in production.

Please contact our Fleet Team in Ayr, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Stirling for information, one of our LBMD’s will be more than delighted to assist.

NEW MEMBERS’ PROFILE CeeD

MRES

CeeD is the Scotland-wide fusion of business, industry and academia. We work together to share expertise, experience and know how to bring about tangible improvements to business operations through our Clinic programme. Membership includes whole company access to Growth500, our unique business management and people development programme.

MRES Ltd is a Stirling based company covering the whole of the UK for our clients. We have over 28 years’ experience in the electrical industry and the company currently has three divisions electrical contracting, renewable energy solutions and electrical inspection, and a testing division .We can provide a full turn key project management solution for all of our services.

Mob: 07539 922497 Email: r.harkess@ceed-scotland.com

We take care great care in understanding our clients requirements for their projects and we hope you will be equally impressed by MRES flexible approach and expertise.

Business Transformers

Tel: 01786 448562 Email: moray@mresstirling.co.uk Web: www.mresstirling.co.uk

Scotsgas Training Ltd

In partnership with you we help you develop your vision, goals, skills, behaviours and awareness to build the business you dream of. You know your business best. We work with you to: • help you see things from a different angle, • challenge your assumptions and behaviours, • identify and measure the numbers that matter for your business, • help you re-frame old problems, and • help you figure out the right solutions for you and your business.

We work with those starting out in business, those who want to unlock their potential, and those who want to change their results. Everything we do is geared to transforming the lives of small business owners, so their business is fulfilling and inspiring, and so that they have no regrets when they retire.

We are associates of Robertson Associates, Chartered Accountants.

Scots Gas Training Ltd is an innovative training company in Stirling, offering a wide range of gas and plumbing assessments and training. If you are looking for a career change, we can train you as a gas engineer, giving you a financially secure future. We also offer re-assessments for existing gas engineers.

Our bespoke training is planned to suit you and your existing employment, allowing our students to train as they work.

We won’t tell you it’s easy, but we will certainly make it possible!

Tel: 01786 474187 Email: sgtrainingltd@mail.com Web: www.scotsgastrainingltd.co.uk

Stud Civil Contracts Ltd are a new and ambitious business committed to local employment in the Falkirk area, and committed to the highest standard of contract delivery.

With cloud-based technology, we act as a subcontractor to the rail industry and construction industry with all operative qualifications, and regular drug and alcohol tests to be viewed by our primary contractor on site. The company has worked hard recently to complete the Achilles link up audit to be completed by January 2015, which will create and manage collaborative communities matching qualified primary contractors to work with our organisation.

Our operatives’ backgrounds are primarily shuttering joiners, steel fixers, concrete finishers and ground workers, and associated construction backgrounds.

We are also a proud member of the Forth Valley Chamber of Commerce

Tel: 01324 614072 Email: gstewart-studcivilcontractsltd@hotmail.com Web : www.studcivilcontracts.co.uk

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Tel: 07834 191 246 Email: pmacmillan@macmillan.org.uk Web: www.macmillan.org.uk

Libra Therapy

Libra Therapy offers a range of treatments to benefit physical and emotional health, including Reflexology, Reiki and Indian Head Massage. Founder Yvonne Mitchell is a qualified reflexologist and believes that in today’s busy world, it is vital to take time to relax and develop a positive approach to life.

Tel: 01324 55 45 18 Email: ymitchell59@gmail.com Web: www. Libratherapy.com

JBR Roofing Ltd

A local family company with over 20 years’ experience in delivering our service to commercial and residential customers. We offer highly competitive prices and a variety of contracts including roof repairs, roughcasting and scaffolding hire. JBR is a Trade Member of The National Federation of Roofing Contractors and is an approved operative with the Federation of Heritage Roofing.

Tel: 01324 554518 Email: j.b.r.roofingnelson@gmail.com Web: www.jbrroofing.com

Gemini Solutionz

Bell HR

Martin Robertson Tel: 01324 460 288 Email: hello@wabt.co.uk Web: www.wabt.co.uk

Stud Civil Contracts

Working with Macmillan can benefit your business in many ways from meeting your CSR objectives to positive PR and increasing employee engagement, for more information contact local Regional Fundraising Manager Pauline Macmillan.

Bell HR has been established for 5 years and offers HR support and employment law advice for small and medium sized businesses across Central Scotland. The Company is owned and run by local HR professional Alison Bell. Alison is a member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development and has a wealth of HR experience.Bell HR works with business owners providing support to guide them through the complex world of employment law. The service is accessible and cost effective - there are no fixed monthly fees and no tieins, just good advice when it’s needed.

Tel: 01786 289758 Email: info@bellhrconsulting.co.uk Web: www.bellhrconsulting.co.uk

Gemini Solutionz provides friendly, jargon-free IT training for small businesses and for members of the public in the Forth Valley area. We train business and home users on many different aspects of IT from the latest software application packages to using email, managing your files and folders to getting to grips with your new tablet. From new users to the experienced, we all reach that point where we need to refresh our skills or take our knowledge to the next level. We can travel to your home or place of work for one to one bespoke sessions or we can run a class to suit your requirements in your local area.

Tel: 07930 527051 Email: gail@geminisolutionz.co.uk Web: www.geminisolutionz.co.uk

Design Print Advertise Ltd

MacMillan Cancer Research We are a bespoke printing business offering a full design services and local advertising opportunities predominantly to the SME market.

When you have cancer, you don’t just worry about what will happen to your body, you worry about what will happen to your life. At Macmillan, we know how a cancer diagnosis can affect everything and we’re here to support you through. From help with money worries and advice about work, to someone who’ll listen if you just want to talk, we’ll be there. No one should face cancer alone and with your help no one will.

FORTH VALLEY • SPRING 2015

We provide high quality, quick turnaround printing of all types of business stationery, promotional materials, branding, signage and media.

Our job is to promote events and businesses by designing and printing high quality marketing materials.

Tel: 01786 897023 Email: info@designprintadvertise.com Web: www.designprintadvertise.com

NEW MEMBERS’ PROFILE CALAD media Ltd

Calad media provide a full web design and development service to a wide spectrum of clients throughout Forth Valley and beyond. They range from single operating sole traders to mid-sized companies with turn over running into several millions of pounds.CALAD media offer a truly bespoke design service, tailored to your budget, where attention to detail is the primary focus.

From a simple landing page to a full custom built e-commerce website, we really can help.

Growing YOUR business online.

Tel: 01324 719619 Email: alex@calad-media.co.uk Web: www.calad-media.co.uk

Scottish Business Resilience Centre Member Profile

As a go-to partner, and in tune with client needs and means, we deliver scalable fast-track strategies and formats to secure high impact performance management from stakeholder to jobholder.

Tel: 01786 448333 Email: billandrew@andrewmanagement.com Web: www.andrewmanagement.com

Trusty Professionals

Doubletree by Hilton Dunblane Hydro

Advice Service • HR • EMPLOYMENT LAW

An established directory of carefully selected businesses covering the Forth Valley areas.

• HEALTH & SAFETY

• • • •

• LEGAL ADVICE

Each recommended and reference checked.

Each personally known to us.

Each sending all customer feedback directly to us.

Each consistently delivering superb standards of business.

Supporters’ Direct

Tel: 01786 447441 Email: enquiry@sbrcentre.co.uk Web: www.sbrcentre.co.uk

Business

**A FREE SERVICE PROVIDED BY LYNN HUNTER IN GRANGEMOUTH**

Tel: 01324 473731 Email: lynn@trustyprofessionals.co.uk Web: www.trustyprofessionals.co.uk

The Scottish Business Resilience Centre (SBRC) has established itself as a hub of innovation and improvement in support of our partners, members and the business community. Our objective is to create a secure Scotland for business to flourish in. Essentially, creating a safe environment where business can trade and prosper securely, regardless of size and sector. This encompasses everything from cyber threat, secure premises and employee safety to bogus crime, illicit trade and metal theft.

FORTH VALLEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Supporters Direct was formed in 2000 as an initiative of the UK Government with the goal of ‘promoting sustainable spectator sports clubs based on supporters involvement and community ownership. Supporters Direct Scotland currently has representation at 32 clubs. We are funded by the Scottish Government and are committed to being the voice of fans of all clubs, all groups and all individuals, to make those voices heard.

Tel: 01786 845606 Email: Michael.wood@supporters-direct.org Web: www.supporters-direct.org

• FINANCIAL ADVICE Business Advice Service (BAS) offers members easy access to essential advice across a range of key business issues, including HR, Employment Law, Health & Safety, Legal, VAT and Tax. This service is included in your membership fee so you have nothing extra to pay. BAS is an employer focussed service – it’s on your side!

CALL OUR ADVICE LINE

0116 243 7866 http://fv.qdosconsulting.com

NFU Mutual A little luxury in the heart of Scotland. Stay at DoubleTree by Hilton Dunblane Hydro, set in ten acres of private landscaped grounds in the beautiful Perthshire countryside.

Set in a stunning location with breathtaking views, this elegant Victorian-style hotel is under 45 minutes’ drive from Glasgow and Edinburgh – and just a stone’s throw from historic Stirling. Indulge in signature dishes designed by our Michelin star-winning chef at The Kailyard by Nick Nairn restaurant. Relax over afterdinner cocktails or a nightcap in one of our bars and lounges. Recharge with a full Scottish breakfast and enjoy a refreshing swim in the LivingWell Health Club.

Tel: 01786 822551 Email: events.dunblane@hilton.com Web: www.doubletreedunblane.com

NFU Mutual is an award-winning provider offering expert advice in insurance, pensions and financial services. Our local office, based in Stirling, covers areas of the Forth Valley, Clackmannanshire and North Lanarkshire. In the last century, NFU Mutual has become a key part of the British countryside, offering specialist cover in the agricultural industry. Our growth has now accelerated to focus on commercial businesses across many fields, and we are now being recognized as one of the nation’s leading insurers.

Tel: 01786 446585 Email: stirling@nfumutual.co.uk Web: www.nfumutual.co.uk

Andrew Management

Andrew Management address bottom-line performance in target, potential, and for some, survival; denying the ‘economy’ and the ‘market’ undue control, and rescuing the controllable from the inevitable.

FREE MEMBER

SERVICE FORTH VALLEY • SPRING 2015

37

MEMBERS’ REGISTER ACCOUNTANCY/FINANCIAL SERVICES

Acumen Accountants & Advisers Ltd 01259 753555 barrie.alexander@acumen.info www.acumen.info

Antonine Investment Managers 01324 478248 craig@antonineim.co.uk www.antonineim.com

ASC Finance for Business 01738 230333 alison.hunter@asc.co.uk www.asc.co.uk

Baker Tilly LLP

01324 475700 patrick.norris@bakertilly.co.uk www.bakertilly.co.uk

Bibby Factors Scotland Ltd 01316 623230 alex.russon@bibbyfinancialservices. com www.bibbyfinancialservices.com

Borland Insurance Ltd

01383 623300 paul.baillie@borlandinsurance.co.uk www.borlandinsurance.co.uk

Campbell Dallas LLP

01786 460030 john.gold@campbelldallas.co.uk www.campbelldallas.co.uk

Canmore Business Service Limited 07853 360344 info@canmore.co www.canmore.co/

Condies Chartered Accountants & Business Advisors 01383 721421 george.primrose@condie.co.uk www.condie.co.uk

Davidson Cruse Wealth Management 01786 445060 justine.waddell@sjpp.co.uk www.davidsoncruse.co.uk

Dickson Middleton

01786 474718 headoffice@dicksonmiddleton.co.uk www.dicksonmiddleton.co.uk

Drummond Laurie Chartered Accountants

01324 441255 greig.brown@drummondlaurie.co.uk www.drummondlaurie.co.uk

Falkirk District Credit Union 01324 473695 fdcu@btconnect.com www.falkirkcreditunion.co.uk

French Duncan

01786 451745 h.burt@frenchduncan.co.uk www.frenchduncan.co.uk/

GS Insurance Services Ltd 01738 441555 kenneth-blake@gsinsurance.co.uk www.gsinsurance.co.uk

Handelsbanken

01786 463109 dabe10@handelsbanken.co.uk www.handelsbanken.co.uk/stirling

38

Harley Financial Services Ltd

01324 625225 info@harleyfinancial.co.uk www.harleyfinancial.co.uk

Insurance Advisory Services (Larbert) Ltd 01324 556414 iasltd@btconnect.com www.greatinsurancedeals.com

Johnston Carmichael Chartered Accountants & Business Advisors 01786 459900 james.a.stewart@jcca.co.uk www.jcca.co.uk/

Kelvin Financial Planning 01412 043272 chris@kelvinfp.com www.kelvinfp.com

Lyle & Logan

01786 446585 stirling@nfumutual.co.uk www.nfumutual.co.uk/stirling

Royal Bank of Scotland 07901 587151 alan.smart@rbs.co.uk www.rbs.co.uk/business.ashx

Russel & Aitken Financial Planning 01412 043272 chris@russelaitkenfp.com www.russelaitkenfp.com

Solutions Wealth Management 01236 801440 gary@swmltd.co.uk www.swmltd.co.uk

Springfords Chartered Accountants 01314 405000 fpaul@springfords.com www.springfords.com

Stewart Accounting Services Ltd

01259 721156 mark@stewartaccounting.co.uk www.stewartaccounting.co.uk

Stirling Credit Union Ltd

We Are Business Transformers Ltd 01324 633550 martin@mraca.com www.mraca.com

Wealth & Safety (UK) Ltd 01324 832820 geoffg@prismtd.co.uk

Airth Station Cattery & Kennels Ltd 01324 831549 info@airthkennels.co.uk www.airthkennels.co.uk

Stirling Dog Behavioural Centre 07825 380251 annwatt1@live.co.uk

ARCHITECTS

Module Architects

01786 823753 mdowey@modulearchitects.com www.modulearchitects.com

ART

Denovoalba

07731 440200 stephanie.h.mckenzie@gmail.com

ART

Towngate Gallery Ltd

07749 550114 enquiries@towngategallery.com www.towngategallery.com

AUCTIONEERS

DJ Manning Ltd

01506 827693 marie@djmanning.co.uk www.djmanning.co.uk

United Auctions

01786 473055 stirling@uagroup.co.uk www.uagroup.co.uk/

AUDIO VISUAL

GMS (Recordings) Ltd 01324 711011 hsm@gmsmusic.com www.music4uonline.com

01786 233937 info@stirlingcreditunion.co.uk www.stirlingcreditunion.co.uk

BUILDING CONTRACTORS/ MAINTENANCE/REPAIRS/ SERVICES

07791 718861 stuart@sykamandco.co.uk www.sykamandco.co.uk

01786 450022 crannogconstructionltd@gmail.com www.crannogconstruction.co.uk/

01786 447030 jonathandeb@taxassist.co.uk www.taxassist.co.uk/jonathandeb

08445 672999 clarke@edinmoreltd.co.uk www.edinmoreltd.co.uk

Sykam & Co

TaxAssist Accountants

ACCOUNTANCY/FINANCIAL SERVICES

The A9 Partnership Ltd

01506 834700 victoriaw@a9partnership.co.uk www.a9partnership.co.uk

The Cloud Accounting Co 01324 464510 alan@cloudaccountingco.com www.cloudaccountingco.com

The Wealth Partnership 01786 476747 derek@wealthpartnership.net www.wealthpartnership.net

FORTH VALLEY • SPRING 2015

Crannog Construction Ltd

Edinmore Contracts Ltd

F. Dougall & Son

01324 611254 dougall.family@blueyonder.co.uk

JBR Roofing Ltd

01324 554518 j.b.r.roofingnelson@gmail.com www.jbrroofing.com

Keyline Builders Merchants 01324 638471 graeme.little@keyline.co.uk www.keyline.co.uk

Rooftec Scotland Ltd 01324 614014 info@rooftecscotland.co.uk www.rooftecscotland.co.uk

Site Sealants Ltd

01324 626969 sitesealants@btconnect.com www.sitesealants.co.uk

Stud Civil Contracts Ltd

01324 614072 gstewart-studcivilcontractsltd@ hotmail.com www.studcivilcontractsltd.co.uk

Yard (Direct) Ltd 01786 357252 sales@yarddirect.com www.yarddirect.com/

BUSINESS CONSULTANCY/ NETWORKING/COACHING

3D Developments Ltd 01506 499645 joan.b@3d-coaching.com http://3d-coaching.com/

Andrew Management

01786 448333 billandrew@andrewmanagement. com www.andrewmanagement.com

CeeD

07539 922497 r.harkess@ceed-scotland.com www.ceed-scotland.com

Colin McKeand - Business Connector 01324 823664 colin@colinmckeand.co.uk www.colinmckeand.co.uk

Creation Social Media

07786 036609 helen.warburton@ creationsocialmedia.com www.creationsocialmedia.com

Exolta Capital Partners 07920 008187 russell@exolta.com www.exolta.com

George Stevenson Consultant

01324 621981 georgebstevenson@blueyonder.co.uk www.fbs-global.com

Interface - The Knowledge Connection for Business 01316 514791 laura@interface-online.org.uk www.interspace-online.org.uk

Laurence Barrett

07887 651785 the.barretts@btconnect.com

People Centred

01324 620224 julie@people-centred.com www.people-centred.com

Positive Performance

01786 818788 wendy@positive-performance.com www.positive-performance.com

Positive Qualities Ltd 01324 492726 liz@positivequalities.co.uk www.positivequalities.co.uk

Robertson Training Ltd 01786 447548 derek@robertsontraining.co.uk www.robertsontraining.co.uk

Scottish Business Resilience Centre Ltd 01786 447441 breige.mcbride@sbrcentre.co.uk www.sbrcentre.co.uk

MEMBERS’ REGISTER Sheena Walker - Executive Training & HR 07588 645702 sheena@sheenawalker.com www.sheenawalker.com

Simple Improvement Ltd 07791 758330 mike.bell@si8.co.uk www.simpleimprovement.co.uk

STEP Stirling

01786 463416 step@stepstirling.co.uk www.stepstirling.co.uk/

Thinktastic

01312 021667 mike@thinktastic.co.uk www.thinktastic.co.uk

CAR DEALERSHIPS/HIRE/ LEASING/MECHANICS

Hardies Motor Group

01324 562799 iain.bolton@peugeotmail.co.uk www.hardiemotorgroup.co.uk

Stirling Audi (Lomond Audi Group) 01786 446888 graeme.southwood@stirlingaudi.com www.lomondaudigroup.com

CHARITY/SOCIAL ENTERPRISE

British Heart Foundation 01259 220451 staffordl@bhf.org.uk www.bhf.org.uk/scotland

CVS Falkirk & District 01324 692002 karen@cvsfalkirk.org.uk www.cvsfalkirk.org.uk

Fallin Community Enterprises (Recyke-A-Bike) 01786 447559 admin@recyke-a-bike.co.uk www.recyke-a-bike.co.uk

Highland Reserve Forces & Cadets Association 01382 631026 hi-empsp@rfca.mod.uk www.hrfca.co.uk

Macmillan Cancer Support Fife & Forth Valley

The Salvation Army Furniture Project

01324 637554 falkirk.furniture@salvationarmy. org.uk www.salvationarmy.org.uk/esc/ charity-shops

Volunteer Scotland

01786 479593 adrian.murtagh@volunteerscotland. org.uk www.volunteerscotland.org.uk

We are the Future

07855 449327 bruce.walker@wearethefuture.org.uk www.wearethefuture.org.uk

CHAUFFEUR SERVICES/ TAXIS/COACH HIRE

Fitzcharles Coaches Ltd 01324 482093 david@fitzcharles.co.uk www.fitzcharles.co.uk

CLEANING

Cairney Cleaning Co

07779 041629 cairneycleaningco@aol.co.uk

Moirs Cleaning

01324 624600 enquiries@moirsresidential.com www.moirsresidential.com

Perfect Service Solutions Ltd

01786 473840 simone@perfectservicesolutions. co.uk www.perfectservicesolutions.co.uk

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

Skills Development Scotland

Central Training Services Limited

Step Up (Housing, Employability & Community Support Services) Ltd 07969 813272 info@stepupsupport.co.uk www.stepupsupport.co.uk

01786 406077 info@forthvalley.ac.uk www.forthvalley.ac.uk

Gemini Solutionz

08443 589001 peter@phasebroadcast.co.uk www.phasebroadcast.co.uk

Scotweigh

01324 611311 ian@scotweigh.co.uk www.scotweigh.co.uk

EMPLOYMENT SERVICES

ESTATE AGENTS/PROPERTY LETTING/PROPERTY DEVELOPERS

CV World

01786 396331 enquiries@cv-world.co.uk www.cv-world.co.uk

Bellair (Scotland) Limited 01324 471278 douglas@bellair.co.uk www.bellair.co.uk

Shaw Trust

CalaChem Limited (Earls Gate Business Park)

ENERGY

01324 494339 john.walker@calachem.com www.earlsgatepark.co.uk

Devine Property

01324 713117 squinn@bierce.co.uk www.bierce.co.uk

01786 358127 info@devineproperty.co.uk www.devineproperty.co.uk

Energylinx for Business

The Letting Co

01259 220000 kirstin.rhymer@ energylinxforbusiness.co.uk www.energylinxforbusiness.co.uk

01324 486888 david@theletting-co.com www.theletting-co.com

EVENT AND CONFERENCING SERVICES

01324 826627 ian.young@vaughanrt.com www.geothermal-solar.com

Ceteris (Scotland) Ltd 01259 726430 mail@ceteris.co.uk www.ceteris.co.uk

01324 637898 graham.maze@greencompliance.com www.greencompliance.com 01324 650850 dom@jorro.co.uk www.jorro.co.uk

Just Ask RAB (Renewable, Alternative & Biomass) Ltd

07930 527051 gail@geminisolutionz.co.uk www.geminisolutionz.co.uk

01786 461123 andy.neebs@yahoo.co.uk www.justaskrab.co.uk

01786 824320 info@sjrconsulting.co.uk www.sjrconsulting.co.uk

01786 469639 monica@oldbaumservices.co.uk www.oldbaumservices.co.uk

SJ Rennie Consulting Ltd

Phase DSCS

01786 813916 info@stirlingelectrical.co.uk www.stirlingelectrical.co.uk

Jorro Ltd

Forth Valley College

01324 878822 ian@ikmconsulting.co.uk www.ikmconsulting.co.uk

Stirling Electrical Services Ltd

08445 046534 john@evolutio.co.uk www.evolutio.co.uk

01324 677809 karen@scottishwaterwaystrust.org.uk www.scottishwaterwaystrust.org.uk

IKM Consulting

01786 448562 info@mresstirling.co.uk www.mresstirling.co.uk

01324 630100 traci@opensecret.org www.opensecret.org

Scottish Waterways Trust

01324 611237 iaind@idsystemsuk.co.uk www.idsystemsuk.co.uk

Moray Robertson Electrical Services Ltd

Green Compliance Water Division

01259 728321 karen.wilson@scottishautism.org www.scottishautism.org

ID Systems UK Ltd

01786 468050 graham@graham-robertson.co.uk www.grelectrical.com

08452 261896 enquiries@cos-scotland.com www.cos-scotland.com

Scottish Autism

01324 666777 scotland@forkers.com www.forkers.com

Graham Robertson Electrical & Security Ltd

Geothermal Solar UK

Evolutio Ltd

Forkers Scotland Ltd

ELECTRICAL SERVICES

01506 829883 allan@central-training.co.uk www.central-training.co.uk

COS (Scotland) Ltd

01786 235045 helpdesk@dseservices.co.uk www.dseservices.co.uk

01786 478478 louise.findlay@youtrain.com www.youtrain.com

07834 191246 pmacmillan@macmillan.org.uk www.macmillan.org.uk

Open Secret

DSE Electrical & Heating Engineers Ltd

YouTrain Ltd

DOCUMENT MANAGEMENT

EDUCATION/TRAINING

ENGINEERING

01786 467041 john.rogers@stir.ac.uk www.stir.ac.uk/

Bierce Technical Services Ltd

01786 870967 jane@dataspacescotland.co.uk www.dataspacescotland.co.uk

01786 448777 scott@allenhpe.co.uk www.allenhpe.co.uk

University of Stirling

01324 477010 sarah.stephen@shaw-trust.org.uk www.shaw-trust.org.uk

Dataspace Scotland

Allen Associates (HPE) Ltd

01786 452019 graeme.schmidt@sds.co.uk www.skillsdevelopmentscotland.co.uk

Falkirk Football Community Foundation 01324 624121 davidc@falkirkfc.co.uk www.falkirkfcf.co.uk

ENGINEERING

Oldbaum Services Ltd

Falkirk Trinity Church

01324 611017 churchoffice@foasmpc.org.uk www.foasmpc.org.uk

FOOD AND DRINK

Laxdale Foodservice Ltd 01786 471000 enquiries@falleninchfarm.co.uk www.falleninchfarm.co.uk

Stirlingshire Vending (Scotland) Ltd t/a SV24-7 01259 215577 fiona@sv24-7.co.uk www.sv24-7.co.uk

Continued on page 40  FORTH VALLEY • SPRING 2015

39

MEMBERS’ REGISTER (CONT) Tapside Marketing Ltd 01506 823402 admin@tapside.com www.tapside.com

The Rookery

01250 881463 stuadh@hotmail.com www.rookery.org.uk

FURNITURE PRODUCTS

Belgica UK

01506 829447 michael@belgicafurniture.com www.belgicafurniture.com

GIFTS & SPECIALIST PRODUCTS

Angels’ Share Glass

01786 833974 info@angelsshareglass.co.uk www.angelsshareglass.co.uk

Trinity Moon

01324 670403 deesteel10@yahoo.com www.trinitymoon.bigcartel.com

GOLF CLUBS/SERVICES

Executive Golf & Leisure Ltd 01786 832244 graeme@execgolf-leisure.com www.execgolf-leisure.com

Glenbervie Golf Club

01324 562605 marketing@glenberviegolfclub.com www.glenberviegolfclub.com

Greentech Sportsturf Ltd 01786 480020 ian@greentechsportsturf.co.uk www.greentechsportsturf.co.uk

HEALTH & BEAUTY SERVICES

Antonine Massage Therapy 07967 115193 antoninemassagetherapy@hotmail. co.uk www.antoninemassagetherapy.co.uk

Colour Me Pretty

01324 823993 colourmepretty@outlook.com

Flawless Falkirk Ltd

01324 552486 flawlesspermanentcosmetics@ hotmail.co.uk www.flawlessfalkirk.com

Libra Therapy

01324 554518 ymitchell59@gmail.com www.libratherapy.com

Life Fit Wellness

01324 614044 info@lifefitwellness.co.uk www.lifefitwellness.co.uk

Meridian Wellbeing & Health

07859 063834 info@meridian-wellbeing.co.uk www.meridian-wellbeing.co.uk

HEALTH AND SAFETY

Murray Consulting

07854 930395 larbert999@btinternet.com

HEALTHCARE SERVICES

Engage Occupational Health Solutions Ltd 07427 600199 margaret@engageoh.com www.engageoh.com

40

Strathcarron Hospice

01324 826222 angela.gillies1@nhs.net www.strathcarronhospice.org

Westfield Health

01259 725810 amcfarlane@westfieldhealth.com www.westfieldhealth.com

HUMAN RESOURCES/ RECRUITMENT

Bell HR Consulting

07900 604551 info@bellhrconsulting.co.uk www.bellhrconsulting.co.uk

Pertemps (Scotland) Recruitment Agency 01324 632363 falkirk@pertemps.co.uk www.pertemps.co.uk

Real Improvements To Employers (RITE) Ltd 01786 235055 fred@rite.be www.rite.be

The HR Dept

08453 130361 avril.dunn@hrdept.co.uk www.hrdept.co.uk

Topstaff Employment Limited

01786 451550 bmcgarrity@topstaffemployment. com www.topstaffemployment.com

HYGIENE SERVICES/ CLEANING SUPPLIES/SALES

Alexander Ross Holdings Ltd 03330 000050 robert.ross@alexanderross.co.uk www.unicodirect.com

Corporate Washroom Service Limited

01324 870719 iain@cwswashroom.co.uk www.corporatewashroom.co.uk

IMPORTS/EXPORTS

CentralBridge Ltd 01324 229435 94zly@163.com

INTERIORS/DESIGN

Cloud Cover IT Services Ltd

MANUFACTURING

Comtech

01324 667488 p.duncan@alliedfittings.com www.alliedfittings.com

Dogfi.sh Mobile Ltd

01324 825503 admin@ochiltimber.com www.ochiltimber.com

07768 444498 kenny@cloudcover.co.uk www.cloudcoverit.co.uk

Allied International UK Ltd

01786 406448 hello@comtech247.net www.contech247.net

Ochil Timber Products Ltd

07515 545377 ross@dogfi.sh www.dogfi.sh

MARKETING/PR/DESIGN/ MEDIA

Exmos Ltd

01324 486844 gordonc@exmos.com www.exmos.com

Fusion IT

01259 726633 support@fusion-ltd.co.uk www.fusion-ltd.co.uk

ITFA Ltd

01324 664713 admin@itfa.co.uk www.itfa.co.uk

Lithium Systems Ltd

01259 727847 stephen@lithiumsystems.co.uk www.lithiumsystems.co.uk

Phoenix Broadband Ltd 01786 230830 tfreeth@medusabusiness.com www.medusabusiness.com

Steeple Media

01324 632805 tom@steeplemedia.co.uk www.steeplemedia.co.uk

Action Insight Management Ltd 01324 867733 graeme@aim-eu.com www.actioninsightmanagement.com

CGH Creative

01506 842953 contact@cghcreative.co.uk www.cghcreative.co.uk

Denvir Marketing

01786 448160 catriona@denvirmarketing.com www.denvirmarketing.com

Ideas

01324 716827 donjack@ideas.co.uk www.ideas.co.uk

Smartlocal Marketing

01506 674584 iain@smartlocalvouchers.co.uk www.smartlocal-marketing.co.uk

Trusty Professionals

01324 473731 lynn@trustyprofessionals.co.uk www.trustyprofessionals.co.uk

Wildcat Solutions

Vizibility Design

LEGAL & PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Wide Eye Marketing

01786 473232 cat@wildcatsolutions.co.uk www.wildcatsolutions.co.uk

K.W. Peter & Co

01786 469023 sdickson@vizibilitydesign.co.uk www.vizibilitydesign.co.uk 07590 998685 stacey@wideeyemarketing.co.uk www.wideeyemarketing.co.uk

01314 458608 patents@kwpeter.co.uk www.kwpeter.co.uk

Write Marketing Consultancy

01786 478100 mail@ledinghamchalmers.com www.ledinghamchalmers.com

MUSEUM/HERITAGE CENTRE

Ledingham Chalmers LLP

01324 874802 andrea@writemarketing.co.uk www.writemarketing.co.uk

Psychologists Protection Services Ltd

Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders Museum Trust

01259 215555 info@osborneheath.com www.osborneheath.com

Russel & Aitken LLP

OFFICE SUPPLIES

01506 843463 frazer@refractionz.co.uk www.refractionz.co.uk

LEISURE ACTIVITIES

IT/COMPUTING SERVICES/ TECHNOLOGY/MOBILE COMMS

03000 280101 kavanaghm@activestirling.org.uk www.activestirling.org.uk

Finestra Blinds

07890 998685 joe_nicoletti@finestrablinds.co.uk www.finestrablinds.co.uk

Osborne Heath

Refractionz Ltd

Calad Media

03333 208074 enquiries@ppstrust.org www.ppstrust.org

01324 622888 karenmclachlan@russel-aitken.co.uk www.russelaitken.com

Active Stirling Ltd

Little Kerse Leisure Ltd

01324 719619 alex@calad-media.co.uk www.calad-media.co.uk

01324 486924 stephen@lkgalaxy.co.uk www.lkgalaxy.co.uk

07768 444498 lance@cloudcoverit.co.uk www.cloudcoverit.co.uk

01324 579797 info@xtremekarting.co.uk www.xtremekarting.co.uk

Cloud Cover IT Services Ltd

FORTH VALLEY • SPRING 2015

Xtreme Karting Ltd

01786 475165 CEO@argylls.co.uk www.argylls.co.uk

AG Office Supplies Ltd

01324 871857 richard@agofficesupplies.co.uk www.agofficesupplies.co.uk

PHOTOCOPIERS/OFFICE EQUIPMENT

Leemic

01324 492785 sandy.muir@leemic.com www.leemic.com

PHOTOGRAPHY

Mark Ferguson Photographer

07931 251898 mark@markfergusonphotographer.com ww.markfergusonphotographer.com

ADVERTISING FEATURE

MEMBERS’ REGISTER Rhoddy Stewart Photography

01506 828983 rhoddy@rhoddystewartphotography. co.uk www.rhoddystewartphotography.co.uk

Supporters Direct Scotland

01786 845606 andrew.jenkin@supporters-direct.org www.scottishfans.org

SPORTS WEAR/EQUIPMENT

PORTS OPERATOR

RJM Sports Ltd

01324 668401 stuart.wallace@forthports.co.uk www.forthports.co.uk

STORAGE

Forth Ports Ltd

01324 873804 sales@rjmsports.co.uk www.rjmsports.co.uk

PRINTING/PUBLISHING

Storage UK Ltd

01412 222202 mark@dtechuk.com www.dtechuk.com

SURVEYORS

Dtech

Helix Binders Ltd

01324 629025 iain@helixbinders.co.uk www.helixbinders.co.uk

Palimpsest Book Production Ltd

01324 812914 storage.uk@btclick.com www.storageukltd.co.uk/

Dronetech Aerial Surveys Limited 07725 915592 cath@dronetechsurveys.com www.dronetechsurveys.com

TELECOMS

01324 677850 craig@palimpsest-bp.co.uk www.palimpsest-bp.co.uk

Datel Solutions

01360 440013 henke@sol.co.uk www.henke.co.uk

TOURISM/HOSPITALITY

01259 720309 gail@wordwoolf.co.uk www.wordwoolf.co.uk

01786 826609 sales.dunblane@hilton.com www.doubletreedunblane.com

Readers Direct

01383 844244 sales@datel-solutions.co.uk www.datel-solutions.co.uk

Word Woolf

Doubletree by Hilton Dunblane Hydro

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE & MANAGEMENT

MacDonald Inchyra Hotel & Spa

01312 081365 ry@astutefm.co.uk www.astutefm.co.uk

Steamship Sir Walter Scott Ltd

Astute Facilities Management Ltd

08448 799044 sales.inchyra@macdonald-hotels.co.uk www.macdonald-hotels.co.uk/inchyra

RADIO/TELEVISION

01877 376315 gordon@lochkatrine.com www.lochkatrine.com

Central FM

01786 577024 andrew.mcmurray@centralfm.co.uk www.centralfm.co.uk

RESTAURANTS/CAFES/ COFFEE HOUSES

Jacks Coffee House

07917 082768 Derek@jackscoffeehouse.co.uk www.jackscoffeehouse.co.uk

RETAIL/CLOTHING

Labels4Kids Ltd

01786 473508 ann-maree@labels4kids.com www.labels4kids.com

SECURITY

CMD Electrical Engineers Ltd

07873 327273 craig.dolier@ cmdelectricalengineersltd.co.uk www.cmdelectricalengineersltd.co.uk

The Falkirk Wheel

01324 619888 findlay.withers@scottishcanals.co.uk www.falkirkwheel.co.uk

The Travel Architect

07974 567003 fionabibby@travelarchitect.com www.travelarchitect.com

Visit Scotland

01292 616417 liz.buchanan@tbt.visitscotland.com www.visitscotland.com

Westerwood Hotel & Golf Resort 01236 457171 mamiller@qhotels.co.uk www.QHotels.co.uk

TRANSLATION SERVICES

Global Voices Ltd

08451 301170 info@globalvoices.co.uk www.globalvoices.co.uk

SPORTING ACTIVITIES

TRANSPORT

01738 551597 tracey@perth-races.co.uk www.perth-races.co.uk/ perthracecourse

03300 600500 manjeet.turner@serco.com www.sleeper.scot

Perth Racecourse

Scott Stronach - Track Cyclist 01324 716827 scottstronach@yahoo.co.uk

Corporate Sales Executive starts at Menzies MENZIES Motors Ltd are delighted to announce that Ross Leslie has re-joined the company in the newly created role of Corporate Sales Executive.

Ross will be in charge of growing and developing Menzies’ business-to-business sales for BMW and MINI to local companies with fleets ranging from 1 – 50 vehicles. He will be based at the retailer in Stirling but will be covering a large area throughout central Scotland.

Ross said ‘I am delighted to have re-joined Menzies in this new role and I am looking forward to the opportunity to developing the business opportunities that are available for corporate and fleet sales in the area. I’ll also be on hand to assist businesses with managing their fleets and ensuring that Menzies provides them with an outstanding aftersales service.’

Ross has worked in retail throughout his career and spent 9 years in the motor trade with 7 of these previously with Menzies.

Drew Guthrie, Head of Business said ‘Ross has all the experience and contacts to make this new role a success. We are looking forward to developing this side of the business and have already experienced an uplift in enquiries for corporate and fleet terms since he started.’

Ross, in his role as Corporate Sales Executive, will be offering customers extended test drives and presenting them with preferential leasing terms from BMW and MINI.

Caledonian Sleeper

UTILITIES

Braemar Buying Group

01786 822858 braemarbuyinggroup@gmail.com www.braemartel.com

Menzies BMW www.menziesbmw.co.uk

ty, thday Par ir B , e c n e n? nfer e for a Co celebratio u r n e e h v t o ic r t o s t nta Retiremen Need a fa Wedding,

!

T I D N U O YOU’VE F

At The Falkirk Stadium we have a range of superbly appointed rooms, ideal for all types of events, from an intimate get-together to a great big bash.

So if you are looking for a sleek and modern venue for your special event, look no further than The Falkirk Stadium.

We can arrange everything from buffets and balloons, dance-floors and discos, to streamers and sparklers.

We have superb catering facilities and can provide anything from a simple finger buffet to a gastronomic 5 course feast. All you need to do is ask and our dedicated team will strive to make your event extra special.

For more details and an informal chat about your initial requirements contact our Sales and Events Executive on 01324 618740 www.falkirkstadium.co.uk

M ACDONA LD INCH Y R A HOTEL & SPA

For style, elegance and flexibility, our hotel is the number one choice in the Central Belt for events ranging from association and business conferences to gala dinners and smaller private meetings.

We are also an excellent choice for training sessions and workshops.

• Dedicated conference and events centre • Nine naturally lit meeting rooms • Conference capacity for up to 750 delegates • 97 luxury bedrooms

• Free on-site parking • Meeting@ all-inclusive delegate rates • Scottish Steak Club Restaurant • Free WiFi and extra dedicated bandwidth

We welcome all Forth Valley Chamber of Commerce Members so contact our General Manager, Brett Ingle, to discuss our exclusive member business packages.

Macdonald Inchyra Hotel & Spa, Grange Road, Polmont, Falkirk, FK2 0YB. Tel: 0844 879 9044

W W W. MACDONALDHOTEL S .CO.U K /INCHYR A

Forth Valley College received their Association of Colleges Beacon Award 2014 for Innovation in Further Education at a national presentation ceremony held at Westminster recently.

George Freeman MP, Under-Secretary of State for Life Sciences, presented Forth Valley College Principal Dr Ken Thomson with the prestigious national award which was sponsored by the OCR. The College received their prize for their innovative leadership model and approach to education and training which has resulted in a range of positive outcomes for students, staff and partners.

Dr Ken Thomson said: “We were honoured to be formally presented with our Beacon Award for Innovation in Further Education at Westminster today.

“The award is a fantastic endorsement of our organisation. At Forth Valley College, innovation is a way of life and is embedded

SAVE THE DATE!

throughout everything we do. As a result, our staff feel empowered to pursue exciting approaches to learning and teaching and our students achieve qualifications valued by industry and progress seamlessly to further study or employment. We’re delighted that this has been recognised at a national level.”

George Freeman MP, Under-Secretary of State for Life Sciences, said: “Further

education colleges play a vital role in delivering a skilled workforce by supporting people from all walks of life into learning. I’m delighted to have the chance to meet with today’s winning colleges whose inspiring work is not only creating huge benefits for learners across the country but making a positive contribution to rebalancing our economy.”

TOUR

at FVC

Radio Presenter John Pienaar had initially announced all the award winners at the AoC Annual Conference in November last year.

Training Opportunities

for Undertaking Resettlement Friday 24 April 2015 10.30am - 2.00pm Forth Valley College, Falkirk Campus Are you thinking of leaving the Armed Forces soon? Have you recently left, or have you been out of the military for a longer period of time? If so, would you like to learn more about training opportunities and funding available to you? If you are, then save this date in your diary and come along.

The TOUR at FVC will: • Introduce you to a wide range of potential training • Highlight help available within the community • Advise on different career paths • Provide networking opportunities Remember you will have to register for the event, so please check back on our website at:

www.forthvalley.ac.uk for further information.

(Registration opens on Monday 30 March 2015) CM022

ADVERTISING FEATURE

FVC presented with Beacon Award at Westminster

Scotland’s future is prepared for work

SQA’s Vocational Qualifications enable learners to develop their knowledge and skills for the world of work.

Our qualifications are developed with industry experts ensuring learners have the kind of skills employers need.

SQA — providing skills for Scotland.

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