Incommerce dunbartonshire issue 30 issuu

THE DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

e r i h s n o t r a b n u s D d r t s a Ea siness Aw Bu

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CHIVAS LOMOND NEW MSPs’ VOLUNTEERS SHORES IS PRIORITIES

CLEAN UP BEST

ISSUE 30 • SUMMER 2016

The

RS

WINNE

WE ARE CUNNINGLY GOOD Sometimes it can be really easy to forget the basics of marketing when you are so focused on the bigger picture. But with our eye for detail, you can be assured we won’t leave any part of your marketing plan to chance.

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Contents From the Editor............................................5 Army Reserves Community Showcase.............5 News in Brief........................................... 6-7 A First for Tissue Solutions Dental Nurse Apprenticeship Success Cardross Biggest Quiz Attempt Fundraiser Premier Inn Extension Leverages £3.6m Investment

Milngavie Community Plan Excitement...........8 Connect With the Chamber.......................... 9 East Dunbartonshire Business Awards..... 10-13

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Chivas Brothers Clean Up..................... 16-18

siness Awards East Dunbartonshire Bu

Dumbarton Hotel Patrons Raise £5k+ for Marie Curie..........................................20 Football Stars Launch Dumbuck Bar and Grill..............................................21 Gongs Galore for Clydebank’s Golden Jubilee.................................... 22-23 Patient Fundraises for Hospital That Saved Her Life.............................. 24-25 CircoSense Unveils Pioneering Smart Energy Device...................................26 Lomond Shores is Best................................27 John Corcoran Appointed Industry Champion.....................................28 Impressive Growth at St Andrew’s College Language School..................... 28-29 Top Property Prizes for Two Dunbartonshire Projects........................ 30-31 World First for European Circuits..................32

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n Up

Chivas Volunteers Clea

MP Praises Cutting Edge Clydebank Business....................................33 New MSP’s Set Out Their Priorities...............34 Architect’s Luxury Highland Shooting Lodge Project....................................... 36-37 New Members...................................... 40-41 Event Reports....................................... 42-44 Rugby Hero’s Chamber Team Talk Politicians Quizzed at Dunbartonshire Hustings The Perils of Social Media in the Workplace Bowling Basin Walkabout

Events Diary........................................ 44-45 Cover photo of the 2016 East Dunbartonshire Business Awards winners with Councillor Alan Moir and council leader Rhondda Geekie by Roberto Cavieres on behalf of East Dunbartonshire Council.

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Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce Whitecrook Business Centre 78 Whitecrook Street, Clydebank G81 1QF.

Lomond Shores Is Best

T: 0141 280 0272 F: 01389 750005 E: admin@dunbartonshirechamber.co.uk www.dunbartonshirechamber.co.uk For advertising contact D-Tech: T: 0141 222 2202 E: sales@incommerce.biz For editorial contact editor: June Hyslop T: 07944 265126 E: editor@incommerce.biz Publisher: D-Tech INCOMMERCE is published by D-Tech, Suite 3.3, Station House, 34 St Enoch Square, Glasgow G1 4DF Telephone 0141 222 2202.

E-mail: info@dtechuk.com.

Edited by June Hyslop, Copywrite Editorial, Dumbarton. Telephone 07944 265126.

E-mail: editor@incommerce.biz.

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New MSPs’ Priorities

INCOMMERCE is fully protected by copyright and nothing may be printed nor copied 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 contained within 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, the publisher or the directors, shareholders and/ or employees of D-Tech or Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce.

I AM off to my 30 year university reunion shortly. Things have changed a lot since I graduated in 1986. Then, going to university was still not the norm as large numbers of people left school and went straight to work.

At a recent Scottish Chambers of Commerce council meeting, a thought-provoking presentation by Damien Yeates, chief executive of Skills Development Scotland, highlighted that more than 70 per cent of school leavers now go on to some form of higher or further education.

The courses provided by colleges and chosen by young people do not necessarily coincide with the areas where there are jobs. Apparently, the popularity of the TV show CSI has led to a great increase in people studying forensic science, despite there being few jobs in this specialised area, yet we have a skills shortage of 15,000 people in our digital industries.

Mr Yeates proposed that we consider the German/Swiss model which has a number of technical apprenticeships where the curriculum and skills taught and examined are set by independent boards provided by industry. Interestingly, he thought that the new ‘apprenticeship levy’ could lead to businesses becoming more involved on the principle of no taxation without representation.

From the young workforce to a slightly older one – three of our most experienced directors, Robert Wilson, James Richardson and June Hyslop are standing down as board members. I am very sorry to see them go as they have all put an enormous amount of effort into the chamber over the years. I thanked them at the AGM in June.

This means the chamber is looking for enthusiastic, committed people to replace them. Why don’t get involved?

Being a chamber board member involves giving up some time but is a great way to meet people, to experience new opportunities and to put something back into your local community.

You could be just the person we are looking for.

www.dunbartonshirechamber.co.uk www.incommerce.biz

Photo courtesy of the Dumbuck House Hotel.

Photo courtesy of Green Highlander Images.

welcome

Here at the chamber we are already involved in the Developing the Young Workforce Programme (DYP) which launched in West Dunbartonshire on 31 May. Directors, Nick Allan and Philp Briscoe have been closely involved to date.

I think it is an ambitious programme which could go a long way to addressing criticisms that young people, when they leave school, do not have marketable skills for the workplace. However, the programme, which is scheduled to become self-funding requires your input as businesses and, if you want to get involved, I urge you to contact the chamber.

CHAMBER SUPPORT: Stewart with Petra McMillan of the Dumbuck House Hotel at the launch of its new bar and grill.

DunbartonshireChamber @dshirechamber dunbartonshire-chamber-of-commerce

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DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2016

Army Reserves Community Showcase

FROM THE

EDITOR

Photos courtesy of the Army Reserves 7 SCOTS.

editor@incommerce.biz

THERE’S lots to celebrate in this issue of InCommerce even though we are living in what are undoubtedly challenging times politically following the European Union referendum vote.

Scottish Chambers has already joined with other business groups to call for leadership and collaboration to identify the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.

It recognises that chamber members hold diverse views on the European Union but says there is a need to drive prosperity - by preserving jobs, attracting investment and driving economic growth for Scotland.

Meanwhile, it applauds the immediate response from members doing what they do best by maintaining ‘business as usual’.

That was certainly the case at the glittering East Dunbartonshire Business Awards ceremony with nine enterprises winning top prizes, with Business of the Year going to TIGERS of Bishopbriggs.

Our members continue to make their mark in their chosen fields with Tissue Solutions one of the first companies in the UK to achieve certification to the new ISO 9001 management standard and architect Fiona Robinson branching out with a bespoke luxury interior for an upmarket Highland shooting lodge.

The Dumbuck House Hotel launched a new bar and grill – and has raised an impressive amount for its chosen charity – Marie Curie.

The Golden Jubilee Hotel and Conference Centre is a leading light in its industry and continues to win honours for its customer service and its staff while the team at Loch Lomond Shores are justifiably proud of their achievements in being officially recognised as Scotland’s best day out – and one of its top tourist attractions.

Two Dunbartonshire projects also took prestigious prizes at the Scottish Property Awards – Lairdsland Primary School in Kirkintilloch and Lomondgate in Dumbarton.

Members are innovating too, with European Circuits achieving a world first using ‘wonder’ material graphene, and CircoSense unveiling its pioneering smart energy-saving device that saves on cost and on carbon emissions.

Last, but not least, honorary president and chamber stalwart, John Corcoran, has been appointed as an industry champion to lobby for the main English language association in the UK – a job he is well suited to.

Like many of you, it was thanks to John that I became involved with Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce. His guidance, unrivalled contacts and unstinting support have been greatly appreciated during my eight years as editor of InCommerce Dunbartonshire.

THE Army Reserves hosted a successful community showcase at an open evening for D Company 7 SCOTS in Dumbarton.

Chamber directors, Nick Allan, Philip Briscoe and June Hyslop heard about the role of the Army Reserves from commanding officer Lieutenant Colonel Piers Strudwick before being given a guided tour and demonstration of their Latta Street headquarters.

There were displays of combat soldier personal equipment, as well as of specialist vehicles used by the army, including assault pioneers, a field medical station, and a chance to meet and talk to reservists, including members of the Special Forces.

This was followed by a rousing Highland band event with pipers and drummers and a meal prepared by reservists.

Lieutenant Colonel Strudwick said: “This was an opportunity to showcase what we do and to raise awareness within the wider community of the role of the Army Reserves.

“Here in Latta Street, Dumbarton, we offer an extensive range of opportunities and are pleased to engage with local businesses, colleges, West Dunbartonshire Council and the chamber of commerce.

“I am pleased to report that the event was a huge success.”

7-SCOTS @7SCOTS

DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2016

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Photo courtesy of The Tell Organisation.

Photo courtesy of BSI UK.

news in brief…

Dental Nurse Apprenticeship Success TEENAGER Courtney Hirshall was nervous about leaving school to start a Modern Apprenticeship – but knows now that she made the right decision.

Like many young people, Courtney (18), from Clydebank, was apprehensive about her future.

A First for Tissue Solutions CHAMBER member, Tissue Solutions, is one of the first companies in the UK to achieve certification to the 2015 version of the ISO 9001 management standard.

The firm, which is global provider of human biomaterials for research, was independently assessed in early 2016, and achieved certification with no major non-conformances.

Its certificate was awarded by Maureen Sumner-Smith, managing director of BSI UK, to Dr Fiona Mackenzie, client services director with Tissue Solutions, (pictured L-R above) at a special presentation at BSI headquarters in Milton Keynes Fiona said: “We are delighted to have achieved our goal in such a short timeframe.

“All companies certified to ISO 9001:2008 have three years from July 2015 to transition to the new standard but, when we looked at it, we realised that it reflected the way we already did business, so it made sense for us to be an early adopter.

“We are pleased to tell our customers that Tissue Solutions continues to lead in compliance and this again demonstrates our commitment to putting excellence at the heart of our business.”

The company continues to expand and recently appointed Michaela Downie as business development manager.

Michaela has 14 years’ experience working with a range of global suppliers of products and services to clients in pharma and biotech, as well as with academic researchers, and contract manufacturing organisations. www.tissue-solutions.com TissueSolutions @TissueSolutions

A chat with her careers adviser and potential employer helped her decide to become an apprentice dental nurse.

She was recruited by Mark Burns and Associates dental practice in Drumchapel, through Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce member, The Tell Organisation.

Courtney said: “With my apprenticeship I’m learning new things every day in a proper, professional environment. Getting paid for it as well is really nice.

“I enjoy the practical side at college. Everyone at the practice has been really helpful and I look forward to becoming a qualified dental nurse.”

Training organisation, Tell, runs a Dental Nurse Academy which is funded by Skills Development Scotland (SDS).

Candidates participate in a rigorous programme which deals with health and safety, infection control and medical emergencies, and end up with a Certificate of Work Readiness which shows employers that they have relevant experience.

Angela Kershaw, business development executive at Dumbarton-based Tell, said: “We are passionate about providing worthwhile, sustainable job opportunities for young people and are delighted to work in partnership with SDS.” www.tell.co.uk The Tell Organisation Ltd @telltraining

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DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2016

Cardross Biggest Quiz Attempt Fundraiser

More than 80 local quizzers took part for one of its fundraising efforts for Gareloch Riding for the Disabled, which is based at Colgrain Equestrian Centre in Cardross.

CARDROSS Golf Club has already raised more than £1000 for its 2016 charity this year.

It joined in the world’s biggest quiz attempt and was the only club or pub in the area to take part in PubAid with almost 1500 other licensed premises in the UK.

Despite their name, the winning team, The Plodding Ponies, were first past the post.

Presenting the cheque to the group, club captain, Stuart Paul, (pictured above) said: “It was a pleasure to have so much support and I thank everyone for raising so much cash for our charity.” www.cardross.com

PLANNING consent has been granted for the Premier Inn hotel at Lomondgate in Dumbarton to almost double in size.

David Christmas, project and programme manager for Premier Inn, said: “The extension will drive around £3.6 million in investment into the area and create eight new jobs.

“Our hotel in Dumbarton has been a great success. Due to its consistently high occupancy, we are extending the hotel by 54 bedrooms.”

Premier Inn Extension Leverages £3.6m Investment

Owners, the Whitbread Group, will acquire additional land to enable development of the extra bedrooms, taking the total to 114, and for an extra 79 parking spaces.

It is understood that the aim is to open the extended hotel for business before the end of 2017.

cardrossgolf

In a statement accompanying its planning application to West Dunbartonshire Council, Whitbread indicated that ‘the existing hotel is one of the group’s best performing in the region and is regularly full’.

At the end of May, Premier Inn scooped the prestigious title of Which? Travel Brand of the Year beating competition from Singapore Airlines, Norwegian, Trailfinders and Voyages Jules Verne.

Earlier in May, it was announced that nine out of ten of Premier Inn hotels achieved a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence while, last year, the brand was named the UK’s top-rated hotel chain for 2015, by the Which? UK Hotel Chains report. www.premierinn.com

DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2016

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Photos courtesy of Milngavie Community Development Trust.

Milngavie Community Action Plan Excitement MILNGAVIE Community Development Trust is cracking on with its action plan – and is urging more locals to get involved.

The aim is to improve the quality of life in the East Dunbartonshire town as trust chairman, Callum Christie, (pictured top left) explained: “We feel the excitement generated so far, and the appetite for community involvement, will help us all to enjoy living, working and playing in Milngavie.

“Everyone who cares about its future, and would like to help shape it, should join. It’s free and it’s easy to do via our website.

A survey called ‘Making the Most of Milngavie’, completed by 1300 people, identified four priorities: •

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Community events and gatherings, such as reviving Milngavie Week, and hosting a fair for local clubs and societies; Community environmental assets, including a masterplan for refurbishing Lennox Park;

DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2016

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Community support, for example, establishing a website listing what’s on in the area; and

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Community assets, including upgrading the community education centre pond and surrounds, as well as replacing the much missed public toilets.

The process kick started when the community council and others decided to ask people in the area what was important to them. www.milngaviedt.co.uk MakingTheMostOfMilngavie

Connect With the Chamber on Social Media

MORE and more people are liking, following, connecting and interacting with Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce on social media.

Chamber director, Philip Briscoe, of European Circuits, (pictured) is now responsible for managing our Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn presence.

Since April, he reports that the number ‘liking’ the chamber on Facebook has nearly doubled, we have almost 1000 Twitter followers and more than twice as many as before on LinkedIn. He explained: “Our social media pages are designed to bring you closer to the chamber and Dunbartonshire by making you aware of the latest news and events, as well as special offers that are exclusive to chamber members.

“You’d be amazed at how small gestures can turn into something on social media. For example, our business, European Circuits, received an enquiry from a company after merely liking one of their posts!

“Bear in mind, however, that success doesn’t always have to be from a direct enquiry – see social media as part of a holistic approach.

“It can help your market research tenfold, it can make you aware about companies or events that you didn’t know existed and it allows you to monitor your competitors and take inspiration from industry leaders!

“Personally, I wasn’t a big fan of social media at the beginning. I didn’t understand Twitter and LinkedIn and thought it couldn’t and wouldn’t have any benefit, especially for the industry I work in.

“How wrong I was! Our presence on the main social media channels has without doubt brought us enquiries and, in turn, new business from various parts of the world.

“Why wouldn’t you want to be part of it? Your competitors will be, for sure.

“If you don’t know where to start the chamber can help. The first thing to do is like our social media pages and look out for future events which will include social media training and assistance.” www.dunbartonshirechamber.co.uk dunbartonshirechamber @dshirechamber dunbartonshire-chamber-of-commerce

DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2016

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Photos by Roberto Cavieres on behalf of East Dunbartonshire Council.

The

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BUSINESS OF THE YEAR Training Initiatives Ltd T/A TIGERS START-UP BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

Celebrating East Dunbartonshire’s

Business Stars THE East Dunbartonshire Business Awards saw nine enterprises winning top prizes with Bishopbriggs-based, Training Initiatives Ltd, crowned as Business of the Year as well as Growth Business.

The company, which trades as TIGERS, is based at Huntershill Village, and is an employment broker and training provider.

TIGERS has shown significant growth, a commitment to developing the business and has undertaken significant work to enhance the community benefits it provides.

Paying tribute to the winners, Councillor Alan Moir, convener of development and regeneration at East Dunbartonshire Council (EDC), who helped to present the awards, said: “What a fantastic advert for business and commerce in East Dunbartonshire.

“Congratulations to all the winners who displayed the innovation, determination and hard work so vital to the success of East Dunbartonshire’s economy.

“It truly was a great night and an ideal opportunity to speak to the nominees about the tremendous work taking place locally.

“The awards offer a valuable opportunity to showcase the inspirational range of businesses, entrepreneurs and enterprises in East Dunbartonshire.

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Alessio’s Café & Bistro GROWTH BUSINESS OF THE YEAR Training Initiatives Ltd T/A TIGERS

“There were over 30 nominees across the categories – all of which deserve great praise and credit for their endeavours.

BEST USE OF E-COMMERCE

“On the night, there was one winner for each award, but, once again, it’s very much the case that every business and entrepreneur who entered was a winner in their own right.”

INDEPENDENT RETAILER OF THE YEAR

121 HR Solutions

Elba Artisan Gallery

Dozens of contenders were in the running for the 2016 awards which were organised

by EDC to shine a light on business success stories.

SERVICE BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

The judging panel included representatives from the council, local businesses and from Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce.

TOURISM, LEISURE AND HOSPITALITY BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

The event also involved a raffle and auction with the chamber’s inimitable Robert Wilson of Wilson Decorators in charge of fundraising for a range of local good causes.

The organisers would like to thank the companies, enterprises and organisations which partnered with the council to sponsor the awards, as well as the many local businesses, organisations and individuals who donated items as raffle and auction prizes including Alarmfast, CMS Windows, Highland Spring, Martin Veterinary Centre, The Eagle Lodge, Morgan Sindall, Grafton Merchanting, Rainton Construction, Xerox (UK), Kenwil and East Dunbartonshire Voluntary Association.

DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2016

Ouzman IP Ltd

Billington’s SOCIAL ENTERPRISE OF THE YEAR Freedom Bakery COMMUNITY CHAMPION Kirkintilloch Baptist Church

Photos by Roberto Cavieres on behalf of East Dunbartonshire Council.

Business of the Year TRAINING INITIATIVES LTD TRADING AS TIGERS Laura Devennie and Pauline Scott of TIGERS with Councillor Alan Moir, convener of development and regeneration; Rhondda Geekie, council leader (centre) who presented the award on behalf of sponsor, East Dunbartonshire Council; Ian Scott and Brian Carmichael of TIGERS.

Start-up Business of the Year ALESSIO’S CAFÉ AND BISTRO James Richardson of Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce with Councillor Moir and Alessio Fedi.

Growth Business of the Year TRAINING INITIATIVES LTD TRADING AS TIGERS Jim Wilson of award sponsor, Morgan Sindall, with Pauline Scott, Laura Devennie and Ian Scott of TIGERS, Councillor Moir, and Brian Carmichael of TIGERS.

DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2016

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Photos by Roberto Cavieres on behalf of East Dunbartonshire Council.

Best Use of E-Commerce 121 HR SOLUTIONS Alan Prentice of award sponsor, Xerox (UK), with EDC chief executive Gerry Cornes, who accepted the award on behalf of the winner, and Councillor Moir.

Independent Retailer of the Year ELBA ARTISAN GALLERY John Hughes of award sponsor, Grafton Merchanting, with Councillor Moir, and Eleanor Barron of Elba Artisan Gallery.

Service Business of the Year OUZMAN IP Lorna McCallum of award sponsor, Rainton Construction Ltd, with Bev Ouzman and Councillor Moir.

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DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2016

Tourism, Leisure and Hospitality Business of the Year BILLINGTON’S Bryan McCluskey of award sponsor, Highland Spring, with Mark Billington, Councillor Moir and Sue Billington.

Social Enterprise of the Year FREEDOM BAKERY

Photos by Roberto Cavieres on behalf of East Dunbartonshire Council.

Gordon Thomson of award sponsor, East Dunbartonshire Voluntary Action, with social work convener, Michael O’Donnell, who accepted the award on behalf of the winner, and Councillor Moir.

Community Champion of the Year KIRKINTILLOCH BAPTIST CHURCH Provost Una Walker, who presented the award on behalf of sponsor, Alarmfast, with church representative, Irene Hughes, Councillor Moir, and Ann Carson, David Gordon and Gill Paton of the church.

DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2016

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NEED HELP WITH YOUR BUSINESS?

We can help East Dunbartonshire Council work to support the local economy through delivering business support projects which aim to attract businesses to the area, help new businesses develop and existing businesses grow within East Dunbartonshire.

Come and talk us about programmes we have that can assist your business • Fully funded advice from one of our experienced experts • Funding to support to start or grow your business • Advice on tendering with the public sector • Business loans to hep grow your business • Help with business planning • Workshops to develop your business skills • Support to relocate your business to East Dunbartonshire

For more information on any of the activities of the East Dunbartonshire Council to support businesses go to www.eastdunbarton.gov.uk/business, or call Economic Development at East Dunbartonshire Council on 0141 578 8530.

East Dunbartonshire Council would like to congratulate the winners of the 2016 East Dunbartonshire would East DunbartonshireCouncil Business Awards

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like to congratulate the winners of the 2016 East Dunbartonshire Business Awards

Training Initiatives Ltd T/A TIGERS Alessio’s Café & Bistro Training Initiatives Ltd T/A TIGERS 121 HRInitiatives SolutionsLtd T/A TIGERS Training Alessio’s Café Gallery & Bistro Elba Artisan Training OuzmanInitiatives IP Ltd Ltd T/A TIGERS 121 HR Solutions Billington’s Elba ArtisanBakery Gallery Freedom Ouzman IP Ltd Kirkintilloch Baptist Church Billington’s Freedom Bakery Kirkintilloch Baptist Church

Business of the Year Start-up Business of the Year Growth Business of the Year BestofUse of E-Commerce Business the Year Start-up Business ofRetailer the Year of the Year Independent Growth Business of the of Year Service Business the Year Best Use of E-Commerce Tourism, Leisure & Hospitality Business of the Year Independent Retailer of of thethe YearYear Social Enterprise Service Business of the Year Community Champion Tourism, Leisure & Hospitality Business of the Year Social Enterprise of the Year Community Champion

EastDunbartonshire Dunbartonshire Council would likethank to thank the following sponsors East Council would like to the following sponsors for theirfor their supportofofthe theevent, event, without which the event notbeen havethe been the success support without which the event couldcould not have success it was. it was.

Photos courtesy of Chivas Brothers.

Chivas Brothers Volunteers Clean Up

TEAMS of Chivas Brothers employees got into the spirit of National Volunteers Week 2016 by supporting community projects throughout Dumbarton.

The activity formed part of Responsib’ALL Day, a global day of action hosted annually by its parent company, Pernod Ricard.

A team of around 50 employees from the company’s Kilmalid site helped out at Overtoun Estate in Dumbarton by painting railings near the ground’s entrances and clearing vegetation to create a better environment for wildlife.

Overtoun is one of 13 Commonwealth Woods designated as part of the legacy of the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

Another 50-strong team of green-fingered staff joined forces with Dalreoch Primary School, Dumbarton, to create an outdoor learning area.

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DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2016

Volunteers planted a variety of trees and shrubs and constructed fencing to ensure safe access to the pond area.

West Dunbartonshire Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP) also benefitted with more Chivas workers helping out with gardening activities at the area’s Langcraigs Day Centre, which supports elderly people with disabilities and those with mental health issues.

One of the Langcraigs volunteers, Lynne Hepburn, a packaging technician at Kilmalid, said: “I used to visit a relative at the centre as a child so it’s really nice to be able to go back now to help improve it. By sprucing up the garden area, the residents have somewhere to relax just in time for summer.

“Responsib’ALL Day is a really valuable programme to be part of as it instils community spirit across the company and enables us to get involved in projects that make a real difference in our local community.”

’ 1,600 rs e th ro B s a iv h C , Throughout the UK ours by h f o s d n a s u o th d te employees dedica d develop n a rt o p p u s to s ie undertaking activit nities their local commu

DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2016

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luable a v lly a re a is y a D Responsib’ALL unity m m o c ls ti s in it s a f part o programme to be us to s le b a n e d n a y n a mp spirit across the co ake a real m t a th ts c je ro p in get involved munity m o c l a c lo r u o in dif ference

Photo courtesy of Stuart Wallace.

Councillor Gail Casey, convener of West Dunbartonshire’s HSCP Board, added: “As a council we are dedicated to improving the wellbeing of communities and protecting the welfare of our vulnerable people, so it is wonderful to have assistance from local Chivas Brothers employees to improve sites for the benefit of our communities.”

Throughout the UK, Chivas Brothers’ 1,600 employees dedicated thousands of hours by undertaking activities to support and develop their local communities on 2 June.

Those who were unable to take part in the community projects joined a two minute litter pick with the Keep Scotland Beautiful charity.

Investing in local communities is just one of Chivas Brothers’ commitments and, throughout the year, employees are also encouraged to participate in Chivas Spirit of Support (Chivas SOS) – a staff inspired scheme that offers all employees an opportunity to volunteer in their local communities.

Chivas Brothers is the Scotch whisky and premium gin business of Pernod Ricard. www.chivas.com www.chivasspirit.com chivas-brothers @ChivasNewsRoom

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DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2016

TWO modern apprentices met Roseanna Cunningham, MSP, when she visited Chivas Brothers’ Dumbarton site.

The former Cabinet Secretary for Fair Work, Skills and Training , who now has the Environment, Climate Change and Land Reform portfolio, is pictured (centre) with Thomas Mawhinney (left) and Declan Gallacher (right), both of whom are apprentice multi-skilled technicians, at the Kilmalid plant.

The apprentices will undertake a four year training course to become fully qualified multiskilled technicians, responsible for operational excellence across one of 27 Chivas sites in Scotland.

Business Advice • Networking • Events • Routes to Finance • HR • Sales & Marketing

We would advise budding entrepreneurs to put a call into Business Gateway as early as possible.

Our adviser’s support with our business plan and finding premises was invaluable. Now that 360 Degrees Fitness is established we will certainly be looking to Business Gateway for advice on how to continue our growth.

Lynsey McInally, 360 Degrees Fitness

Find out how Business Gateway can help make your business idea a reality.

Visit bgateway.com or call 01389 887 325

Photos courtesy of The Dumbuck House Hotel.

Dumbarton Hotel Patrons Raise £5K+ for Marie Curie Charity GENEROUS patrons have helped the Dumbuck House Hotel exceed its £5k fundraising target for Marie Curie which provides free professional nursing care for the terminally ill at home.

The Dumbuck’s 2015 charity target was achieved by holding a series of events, including a Take That tribute night, a Christmas fayre, as well as can collections in the bar and restaurant.

Hotel owner, Petra McMillan, presented local Marie Curie nurse, Valerie Hepburn, with a cheque for £5335.28 (pictured above L-R).

In the UK last year, Marie Curie’s army of 2100 nurses worked 1.2 million hours to support 40,712 individuals at home or in one of the UK’s nine hospices.

This will ‘buy’ almost 267 hours of high-quality hands-on care for people with a range of terminal conditions, including cancer, in the local area.

Petra said: “We couldn’t have done it without our big-hearted customers who have helped us achieve such an impressive target in our first year.”

“We know that most people, when faced with a terminal diagnosis, would choose to be at home at the end, close the people and things that make them feel most comfortable.

Marie Curie makes this possible.

“Thanks to our campaign, I’m delighted to report that every penny will stay in this area to help our neighbours and people nearby who ask for Marie Curie care in their hour of need.”

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DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2016

Thanks to our campaign, I’m delighted to report that every penny will stay in this area to help our neighbours and people nearby who ask for Marie Curie care in their hour of need

Photos courtesy of the Dumbuck House Hotel.

Marie Curie in numbers National

2100 NURSES

Football Stars Launch Dumbuck Bar and Grill

1.2 Million HOURS OF CARE DELIVERED

40,712

TWO ex-Scotland footballers helped launch the new Dumbuck Bar and Grill in Dumbarton.

PATIENTS SUPPORTED

Rangers FC assistant manager, David Weir, who also played for the club, and former Celtic and Scotland star, Murdo Macleod, (pictured above centre) with hotel owners, Tommy and Petra McMillan, cut the ribbon at the bar’s opening in March.

Local

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NURSES

5727

They shared the VIP role at the Dumbuck House Hotel supporting business owner Tommy McMillan, who once played for Dundee United and Scotland’s under-16s.

HOURS OF CARE DELIVERED

687

PATIENTS SUPPORTED

Tommy, who began his career in the licensed trade more than 20 years ago after being told he’d never play again, and his wife Petra, rescued the historic Glasgow Road hotel from the brink of closure two years ago.

Locally, the charity has 42 nurses, including Valerie, working in communities in the Greater Glasgow area and at a hospice in Stobhill. Last year it delivered 5727 hours of care to 687 patients throughout Greater Glasgow.

The charity is best known for its core overnight service, from 10pm to 7am, when a Marie Curie nurse is with a patient so that family members can rest and recover knowing their loved one is being well cared for in their own home.

Petra added: “Fifty per cent of the funds Marie Curie needs to operate must come from fundraising. By raising cash locally, we’re making sure the money is in the pot for more care when it is most needed.

“Historically, Marie Curie has been less well supported locally than other very worthwhile charities so we hope that our activity at the hotel will raise awareness and funds for its vital work in our own neighbourhood.”

To donate visit www.justgiving/DumbuckMarieCurie www.mariecurie.org.uk www.dumbuckhousehotel.com dumbuckhousehotel

After five years without a public bar, the McMillan family hope the launch of the new facility will put the heart back into the hotel and serve as a focal point for the community once more.

Co-owner, Petra, said: “The Dumbuck is part of the town’s history and we want locals to feel very welcome here, whether it is popping in for a coffee, a pint, or a meal.”

Since taking over the Dumbuck in 2014, the McMillans have invested in extensive renovations.

In March, they also celebrated beating off super-chains Hilton, Ramada and Ibis to come second in a prestigious UK-wide award to recognise the Most Improved Hotel in the Simply the Guest Awards 2016 by online booking giant LateRooms.com.

The 20-bedroom family-run hotel was one of only two finalists from north of the border.

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Gongs Galore for Clydebank’s Golden Jubilee

THE gongs just keep on coming for the Golden Jubilee Conference Hotel in Clydebank.

For the sixth year in a row, it has received the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence for delivering consistently outstanding service to its customers and guests.

This comes hot on the heels of its second successive Taste Our Best Award from VisitScotland and the hospital catering team winning the healthcare category in the 2016 Cost Sector Catering Awards at the first attempt.

TripAdvisor is the world’s largest travel website. It collates information gathered from more than 150 million reviews and opinions from consumers around the world.

The Certificate of Excellence is given to venues which maintain an overall rating of a minimum of four out of five in their most recent reviews. It also takes into account the number of reviews, the tenure of the business and its overall popularity on the site.

The Golden Jubilee has achieved the top honour every year since TripAdvisor introduced it six years ago.

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It was an achievement just to be nominated but to be recognised as the top team in the healthcare category in the UK is an honour and demonstrates the hard work of everyone involved

Photos courtesy of the Golden Jubilee Foundation.

AWARD WINNERS: The Golden Jubilee’s catering team.

The Taste Our Best Award celebrates restaurants and dining venues in Scotland which strive to deliver sustainable, high quality, local, fresh food and ingredients on a daily basis for customers.

The Cost Sector Catering Awards saw the Golden Jubilee hospital cuisine team judged by their peers from around the UK, with their win announced at a glamorous ceremony in London in front of an audience of 800 of the catering world’s most influential members.

This accreditation from the national tourism organisation for Scotland makes the hotel part of an elite list of eateries.

The Golden Jubilee catering department works with the hospital’s clinical nutritionists to prepare a variety of healthy, nutritional and tasty menus for patients in the wards and for staff and visitors to the Golden Bistro restaurant, seven days a week.

General manager, Gary Rice, said: “I am very proud of our team who work hard every day to ensure we continually deliver the highest possible standard of service to each of our guests and delegates.

The team has a proven track record of delivering high quality service and received a Healthy Living Award as well as being highly commended at last year’s Hospital Caterers Association Awards.

“We are always looking for new, innovative and exciting ways to give our customers those all important added extras, whether this is free Wifi access or our electric car charging points, making sure we are providing the elite standard of service we are known for.”

Nurse director, Anne Marie Cavanagh, added: “The catering team here at the Golden Jubilee aim to provide an impeccable food service for patients and staff and this has been confirmed by this incredible achievement.”

TOP CUISINE: Pamela Mailler, Golden Jubilee catering operations manager with the award.

Golden Jubilee’s Impressive Track Record The Golden Jubilee’s commitment to sustainability has been acknowledged with the

Green Tourism Gold Standard award for the last four years in a row.

Last year, it was inducted into the TripAdvisor Hall of Fame for consistently delivering an excellent level of customer satisfaction.

It has also received five consecutive VenueVerdict Gold Accreditations and

It is one of the most coveted accolades in the executive hospitality industry.

Pamela Mailler, catering operations manager, commented: “It was an achievement just to be nominated but to be recognised as the top team in the healthcare category in the UK is an honour and demonstrates the hard work of everyone involved.”

was named last year as the Top Large Scottish Hotel in Late Rooms Simply the Guest Awards.

Earlier this year, it climbed 41 places to rank in the top 30 in the UK’s prestigious Stonewall Workplace Equality Index (WEI) 2016.

The WEI measures how well an organisation meets the needs of Lesbian, Gay,

Bisexual and Trans (LGBT) members of staff, and is widely accepted as a good indicator of progress against equality targets generally.

As an accredited Conference Centre of Excellence, the Golden Jubilee is the only Scottish member of the prestigious International Association of Conference Centres (IACC).

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Patient Fundraises

PRESENTATION: Dr Niki Walker, consultant cardiologist (left) receives a cheque from Audrey Graham (right) and her sister Sheila Otway (centre) with SACCS team members (from L-R) Dr Sam Rodgers, clinical fellow; Jim Mearns, advanced nurse practitioner; Dr Patrick O’Boyle, specialist registrar in cardiology, and Drs Andrew Sinclair and Robyn Smith, both cardiac anaesthetists.

for hospital that

Saved Her Life

A GRATEFUL patient has raised more than £2000 for the Golden Jubilee National Hospital.

Congenital heart disease sufferer, Audrey Graham, hosted a night of Northern Soul and Motown music at the Corner House Hotel in Annan in Dumfries and Galloway.

Audrey, who was treated for a life threatening heart condition at the Golden Jubilee National Hospital in 2014, decided to do something fun for the local community, while raising money to give back to the team that saved her life.

More than 160 people attended the Heart and Soul Disco which featured a raffle with prizes donated by local businesses, including luxury hampers, tickets to a Queen of the South football match and a signed football top.

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Audrey and her sister, Sheila Otway, presented the cheque to Dr Niki Walker and the Scottish Adult Congenital Cardiac Service (SACCS) team which was involved in her care.

Audrey, said: “I was looking to give something back to the heart and lung services when I decided to put this local event together, as the treatment I received at the hospital was excellent.

“Since being at the Golden Jubilee, I have felt better than ever, attending fitness classes up to three times a week. I grew up dancing and enjoying music with my family, so we thought what better way to raise money than to do something that is both fun and good for your heart.”

“The night was a brilliant success. We were so grateful for everyone’s generosity, especially the efforts of the DJs who provided non-stop music all night.”

Photo courtesy of the Golden Jubilee Foundation.

This is a wonderful donation which will support the improvement our services, offering the best possible care and quality of life for every one of our patients

Dr Mike Higgins, medical director at the Golden Jubilee National Hospital, commented: “We are so grateful for the generosity that people have shown with their donations towards the Scottish Adult Congenital Cardiac Service (SACCS) at the hospital and we cannot thank Audrey Graham enough – and everyone involved in organising the fundraising for their hard work.”

“This is a wonderful donation which will support the improvement our services, offering the best possible care and quality of life for every one of our patients.” www.goldenjubileehotel.com

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Photo courtesy of John McKenzie Photography.

CIRCOSENSE LAUNCH: CEO, Gerry Kennedy, with commercial director, Andy Strang, and West Dunbartonshire MP, Martin Docherty-Hughes.

CircoSense Unveils Pioneering Smart Energy Device

installer of Sky satellite dishes in Scotland and Northern Ireland, and for carrying out large scale electrical contracts for local councils and housebuilders.

RENEWABLE technology start-up, CircoSense, unveiled a pioneering smart energy-saving device which will provide a jobs boost for West Dunbartonshire.

“I’m proud to have businesses like CircoSense based in my constituency and delighted to see them partner with such an established firm as Campbell & Kennedy.

Within the next 12 months, the business hopes to employ 40-50 staff and forecasts serious growth in a market that is keen to embrace energy-saving devices.

“They are part of the global entrepreneurial response to climate change and their continued investment in West Dunbartonshire shows that our communities are open for business, especially for industries of the future,” he added.

The CircoSense3000 is the first of its type to be offered in the UK and promises to be one of a range of energy-saving products designed by the company.

The patented technology drastically reduces hot water consumption and cuts carbon emissions. It offers financial and environmental benefits to clients and has already been successfully trialled by Renfrewshire Council with schools achieving average savings of 40 per cent using the device.

The company is an offshoot of Campbell & Kennedy (C&K), a long established local business well known as an official

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At the official opening of the firm’s new headquarters in Clydebank, more than 50 people attended including politicians and senior council officials, along with business and industry figures.

Opening the premises, West Dunbartonshire MP, Martin Docherty-Hughes, said he was keen to support a technology business that ‘innovates to solve real 21st century problems’.

He added: “The Scottish Government’s energy and carbon reduction targets are a critical part of this nation’s responsible approach to tackling climate change.

The CircoSense3000 can be installed to secondary return hot water systems in commercial buildings, including schools, hotels, leisure centres, care homes, office buildings and shopping malls. www.circosense.com circosense @circosense circosense-ltd

LOCH Lomond Shores is officially Scotland’s best day out – as well as one of its top tourist attractions.

The iconic site won the accolade at the inaugral Scottish Hospitality Awards on 13 June – hot on the heels of being announced as one of the country’s most visited venues.

It was one of only seven attractions with more than one million visitors in 2015, according to research by Glasgow Caledonian University’s Moffat Centre.

SIMPLY THE BEST: (L-R) Marketing manager, Kat Kennedy and general manager, Clare Gemmell, of Loch Lomond Shores.

This puts it on a par with Edinburgh Castle and the capital’s National Museum of Scotland, which was the top free attraction.

“This excellent recognition will give our marketing campaigns a huge boost.

The study found visits to the top 10 tourist attractions increased by five per cent in 2015 despite a strong performance the previous year with the Commonwealth Games and Ryder Cup boosting numbers.

“We have already achieved so much in 2015 as our five-star attraction saw record-breaking visitor numbers with over 1.2 million people enjoying our shopping and leisure complex.

Clare Gemmell, general manager of Loch Lomond Shores, said: ‘It’s truly gratifying to have our hard work and achievements rewarded so resoundingly at The Scottish Hospitality Awards.

There are always developments here and we’re consistently looking at what else we can do to continue delivering an excellent experience for our visitors

Photo courtesy of Loch Lomond Shores.

Best Day Out and Top for Tourists

Photo courtesy of The Scottish Hospitality Awards.

Loch Lomond Shores

“To be named best day out and one of Scotland’s most popular tourist attractions is absolutely fantastic!

“There are always developments here and we’re consistently looking at what else we can do to continue delivering an excellent experience for our visitors, so we’re very excited about what the rest of 2016 and beyond holds.”

At the end of May, The Culture Trip website voted the venue’s Loch Lomond Food and Drink Festival as one of the best 10 in the UK. www.lochlomondshores.com www.theculturetrip.com lochlomondshores @lochlomondshore

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Photo by Green Highlander Images.

John Corcoran Appointed Industry Champion

Our students come here to learn the language but also to experience the country and enjoy its tourist attractions. Their contribution should not be underestimated in terms both of their spending and in creating employment

JOHN Corcoran, MBE, has been appointed as an industry champion to lobby for the main English language education association in the UK. The chairman and managing director of St Andrews College Language School will represent Glasgow and the West of Scotland Region for English UK – the national association of accredited English language centres.

The industry has been badly affected since the government tightened rules on student visa applications with a resultant decline in numbers coming to the UK to study.

Impressive Growth at St Andrew’s College Language School ST ANDREW’S College Language School has bucked the downward trend and seen impressive growth despite difficult trading conditions.

Turnover is up to a predicted £2.5 million from just over £100k in 2003 – a year after the business started.

It has gone from working with one campus – Bell College in Hamilton – to a total of six – five in Scotland and one

in Essex. In terms of student numbers, it is working at full capacity with a more than tenfold increase to 2,500 pupils in the same period. It now employees 45 teaching and 70 activities staff and is looking for more people.

“A lot of our success is due to the efforts of the company’s operations director, Simon McMillan, and, of course to everyone who works with us.”

“Things are looking good for us this year,” John said, “but it has been hard work and there have been some ups and downs along the way.

The school, which is based in Glasgow, is accredited by the British Council and is a member of English UK.

www.standrewscollege.com

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St.AndrewsCollegeLanguageSchoolsLtd

DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2016

@standrewsc

Photos courtesy of St Andrew’s College Language School.

John, who is honorary president of Dunbartonshire chamber, has already met with West Dunbartonshire MP, Martin Docherty-Hughes, and his Central Glasgow counterpart, Alison Thewliss, MP, to press the case for a review on the issue of educational visas.

He also plans to take the matter up with John Swinney, Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills in the Scottish government and with Fiona Hyslop, who is Cabinet Secretary for Culture, Tourism and External Affairs.

“This sector is a net contributor to the economy of Scotland and the rest of the UK,” he explained. “Our students come here to learn the language but also to experience the country and enjoy its tourist attractions.

“Their contribution should not be underestimated in terms both of their spending and in creating employment.

“It is an honour both for me personally, and for my company, to take on this vital role and I intend to ensure that the case is made for the sector.”

This is the second year of decline in the UK but, for the first time there has also been a downturn in global demand for learning English abroad, according to English UK in its Analysis of 2015 Student Data.

Its figures show an eight per cent decrease in student numbers and a 13 per cent reduction in student weeks across the UK as a whole.

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Lairdsland Primary School photos courtesy of East Dunbartonshire Council.

Top Property Prizes

for Two Dunbartonshire Projects

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Scottish Property Awards 2016 photos by John Young of Young Media.

TWO Dunbartonshire projects won prestigious prizes at the 2016 Scottish Property Awards.

Almost one year on from its grand opening, Lairdsland Primary School in Kirkintilloch, took the Development of the Year for Public Buildings prize.

Shortly afterwards, it was also announced as joint winner of the Drum magazine’s Scottish Design Award for an Education Building or Project.

The £7.7m school, on the banks of the Forth and Clyde Canal, was the first to be built through the East Dunbartonshire Council’s primary school improvement programme and was partly funded by the Scottish Futures Trust.

It was so impressive that the trust went on to select it as a reference design primary school for Scotland.

Council leader, Rhondda Geekie, welcomed news of the success: “On a night when the best buildings, businesses and teams in Scotland’s commercial property sector were honoured, it was a huge thrill to be among the winners.

“Lairdsland Primary School provides a modern, bright and inspirational learning environment for pupils and it is easy to see why it has been established as a reference design for Scotland.

TOP OF THE CLASS: (L-R) Host Des Clarke; Rufus Logan, director of sponsors BRE Scotland; EDC councillor, Alan Moir; Debbie McNamara, CEO hub West Scotland; Anna Pemberton, associate with architect’s Walters and Cohen; Simon Mair, EDC primary school improvement programme lead and co-host Catriona Shearer.

Lairdsland Primary School was so impressive that the trust went on to select it as a reference design primary school for Scotland

“Pupils and teachers love its open and flexible style with its bright and airy spaces for learning. It is almost one year old and this award is a very fitting birthday present.”

The school was subsequently shortlisted for a further accolade – the prestigious Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland Awards.

The council worked with its development partner, hub West Scotland, to deliver the school, after extensive consultation with pupils, parents, staff and the wider community.

Lomondgate in Dumbarton scooped the Community Development Project of the Year at the same Scottish Property Awards ceremony in Glasgow.

The entry was submitted by Strathleven Regeneration and the Walker Group who formed a partnership to develop the site which now has a petrol station with services, a Premier Inn, a Brewer’s Fayre, a drive-thru Costa and a fish restaurant.

Premier Inn owners, Whitbread, have been granted planning permission to significantly extend the budget hotel (See page 7 for details).

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT SUCCESS: Lomondgate’s David Hastings of Strathleven Regeneration is pictured (centre) holding the award, with Mike Edward of the Walker Group (right), sponsor Peter Sykes, head of new build operations for Virgin Media (left), and event hosts Des Clarke and Catriona Shearer.

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World First for European Circuits Using Graphene EUROPEAN Circuits has notched up a world first using ‘wonder’ material, graphene, for an innovative heating system that could slash energy bills.

Working with Xefro, the Clydebank-based chamber member is at the cutting edge designing and manufacturing the electronics for a ground-breaking ‘intelligent’ heating system.

Graphene has been selected for the heating element because of its potential for extremely efficient energy transfer, which is expected to cut energy costs by up to 70 per cent.

It has been widely hailed because of its impressive, varied and valuable properties which could have many potential industrial and other applications.

When used for a heating system it generates heat instantly, superefficiently and quickly.

European Circuits Ltd is a leading UK provider of integrated electronic assembly solutions throughout the UK, Europe and the rest of the world.

Its 17,500 square foot facility has on-site services which include PCB manufacture and assembly, test, design and full product assembly.

GRAPHENE was isolated in 2004

by Prof Andre Geim and Prof Kostya Novoselov, researchers at The University of Manchester.

They won the Nobel Prize in Physics for their work extracting it from graphite – which is the material inside a pencil.

It is the world’s the first 2D material and its most conductive; is the thinnest material on earth; is 200 times stronger than steel; is stretchable and transparent; flexible and impermeable.

It will revolutionise electronics and energy storage and is likely to have many applications that haven’t even been thought of yet.

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MP Praises Cutting Edge Clydebank Business Photos courtesy of European Circuits.

WEST Dunbartonshire MP, Martin Docherty-Hughes (pictured right), enjoyed a tour of European Circuits’ cutting edge Clydebank factory.

He praised the business, which has been operational for more than 30 years: “European Circuits is a credit to the management and staff. It’s a great facility and something people need to know much more about – that manufacturing is happening here.”

Company sales director, Jim Broom, added: “It has been a good opportunity to give our MP an insight into the sort of things we do. I think Martin was surprised and impressed both in terms of the technology and width of market application areas that we’re involved in.”

This year has seen orders for the firm from as far away as Uruguay in South America. It already has a strong UK customer base and is poised for further growth.

It is investing heavily in new equipment to ensure it continues to meet the highest quality standards and is currently recruiting more staff to join its 35-strong workforce, including a business development manager for south England.

www.european-circuits.co.uk EuropeanCircuits @EuropeanCircuit VIP VISITOR: MP Martin Docherty-Hughes, with business development manager, Philip Briscoe, sales director, Jim Broom, and senior marketing executive, Neil Johnston, of European Circuits.

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Dunbartonshire’s New MSPs Set Out Their Priorities Jackie Baillie

LABOUR MSP FOR DUMBARTON SCOTLAND has spoken and the voters have returned a minority administration at Holyrood.

It is therefore incumbent on the Scottish Government to work with other parties across the chamber and seek consensus on the priorities for government. This provides a key opportunity for small and medium-sized businesses in Dunbartonshire and across Scotland to ensure that the issues that matter to them are heard loud and clear in the Holyrood chamber.

Nothing is more important than growing the economy. It is the basis for creating the wealth of the nation, providing jobs for our people and revenue that is used to fund our public services.

At the moment our growth is lower than the rest of the UK, and that is also true for our levels of productivity and numbers in employment. Many sectors of our economy are finding it tough and that is the case for small businesses too. We can, and must, do better than this.

JACKIE has represented the Dumbarton constituency since 1999 when the Scottish Parliament was first created. Prior to this she worked in both the public and voluntary sectors, most recently as a community economic development manager for a local authority. Born in Hong Kong to a Portuguese father and Scottish mother, Jackie now lives in Dumbarton with her daughter.

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The potential of small business is enormous. Over 90 per cent of businesses in Scotland are SMEs. Investing in them, providing a new deal for SMEs has to be a priority for government in growing the economy.

So here is my starter for ten – let’s use procurement to invest locally, so public sector contracts worth £10bn a year must involve small businesses in their delivery; and what about getting universal superfast broadband and mobile coverage across the country; then there is the unfairness of business rates, long in need of review; and finally, ensuring a pipeline of skills, so that small businesses have the people they need to expand their business in the future?

As Scottish Labour’s spokesperson on the Economy, Jobs and Fair Work, I want to engage with small businesses in the constituency to have a shared agenda that puts growing the economy at the centre of all that we do.

She was appointed deputy minister for communities in 1999 under the then First Minister, Donald Dewar, before being promoted to social justice minister in 2000.

In opposition, Jackie has served in a number of front-bench roles including shadow minister for parliamentary business, shadow cabinet secretary for health, wellbeing and city strategy, and shadow cabinet secretary for

DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2016

social justice, equalities and welfare.

Most recently, she has served as Scottish Labour’s spokesperson for public services and wealth creation and is now spokesperson for the economy, jobs and fair work. www.jackiebaillie.co.uk jackie.baillie @jackiebmsp

Rona Mackay

SNP MSP FOR STRATHKELVIN AND BEARSDEN KEEPING schools in the community, tackling inequality and listening to constituents are my major priorities and I am delighted that the SNP Government puts education, health and social care at the top of its agenda.

Good quality affordable housing should be a priority in the constituency to encourage families to live and bring up their families in Strathkelvin and Bearsden which is a great area to live in.

I am acutely aware of the local issues throughout the constituency of Strathkelvin and Bearsden and I will use this knowledge to help constituents by listening to them and holding our local authority to account.

The Scottish Government’s plan to expand the small business bonus scheme and our pledge that there will be 100 per cent coverage of Superfast Broadband throughout Scotland will help businesses thrive.

I moved to Milngavie in East Dunbartonshire three years ago after living for 18 years in Bearsden.

We are introducing a number of measures to help SME’s and there are many successful examples of these throughout the constituency such as the award-winning Billingtons Delicatessen in Lenzie, Spirit of Alba, Rainton Construction Ltd and Training Initiatives Ltd trading as TIGERS, to name but a few.

Our government has pledged to put educational attainment at the top of its agenda and I also support free flexible child care, which the SNP plans to double to 30 hours a week. This will help more people, particularly women, get back into the workplace.

RONA is the newly-elected SNP MSP for Strathkelvin and Bearsden.

She is a journalist with 30 years’ experience in national newspapers.

Since 2008 she was a parliamentary assistant to Milngavie and Clydebank MSP, Gil Paterson.

Rona is a published author and is currently a magazine columnist.

I feel enormously privileged and honoured to be able to represent the people of Strathkelvin and Bearsden at this exciting time in Scotland’s history.

She was a Children’s Panel member in Glasgow for six years and is a board member on East Dunbartonshire Citizen’s Advice Bureau.

In 2001, she was the co-ordinator of Chernobyl Children’s Lifeline in Glasgow and Lanarkshire, a charity which brought children from Belarus, who were affected by the nuclear

disaster, to Scotland to improve their health.

She is married to the leader of the SNP group on East Dunbartonshire Council and lives in Milngavie with her husband, son, and two dogs. ronamackaymsp @RonaMackayMSP

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Photos by Ashley Coombes Photography www.ashleycoombes.co.uk.

Architect’s Luxury Highland Shooting Lodge Project ARCHITECT, Fiona Robinson, created a bespoke luxury interior design for a client’s upmarket Highland shooting lodge.

The Croftamie-based director of Thomas Robinson Architects was delighted to go back to her first love – commercial interior design.

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When I design a building I think about the whole space – how it flows, where the light comes from, how the space functions and what it feels like. This is an integral part of the design process “This is the first project that we have been contracted to do purely as ‘interior architects’ which is great,” she said “I actually have a degree in interior design and did quite a bit of that work in London before converting to architecture.”

Fiona returned to Scotland to study architecture at the Mackintosh School of Architecture and graduated with a master’s degree. She founded the architect’s practice with her husband, Tom, in 1999.

Her experience includes interior branding and the interior design of retail outlets and commercial offices.

“It’s quite unusual to do both, I think. I am trying to build this side of the business up and we have recently been involved in a castle hotel on the back of the shooting lodge project.

“When I design a building I think about the whole space – how it flows, where the light comes from, how the space functions and what it feels like. This is an integral part of the design process.

“Having spent time considering and designing a project, I will have a pretty clear idea about how the interior could be finished to suit our clients’ tastes and also to complement the structural design.”

The practice is known for being at the forefront of sustainable, low energy architecture as well as for taking the lead on conservation projects. Tom is a certified European Passivhaus designer and accredited in conservation architecture.

It employs a team of five architects and an interior designer. www.thomasrobinsonarchitects.co.uk Thomas-Robinson-Architects @TRA_Architects thomas-robinson-architects

Photos by Ashley Coombes Photography www.ashleycoombes.co.uk.

As an architect, Fiona’s strength and expertise is at the front end of architecture and design projects, for example developing briefs, analysing use relationships, defining design concepts and strategies, organising space, and architectural style.

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

Pamela Greig and Louise McInally 360 Degrees Fitness

Get a business boost this summer Business owners can access expert advice and support from Business Gateway to give their ventures a boost this summer.

With a network of local advisers, Business Gateway is ideally positioned to provide support that specifically addresses the issues of those businesses working in West Dunbartonshire.

In addition to a comprehensive online resource and one to one support from a team of experienced advisers in Clydebank, Dumbarton and Alexandria, Business Gateway’s free workshop programme covers a range of issues of importance to the business community.

New workshops are being added to the programme all the time so keep an eye on www.bgateway/events to see what is on offer.

Clydebank venture is fit for business One company that has benefited from Business Gateway support is Clydebank based 360 Degrees Fitness.

When Pamela Greig and Lynsey McInally met at an endurance event in late 2014, the two fitness instructors had no idea that within a matter of months the pair would be best friends and running their own company together.

Launched with support from Business Gateway, 360 Degrees Fitness Limited (tel: 07943574307) offers a range of unique

fitness classes including ‘Boogie Bounce’ sessions (fitness and exercise on a trampette), Metafit, Zumba and ‘Mummies & Buggies’ classes.

“Pamela and I realised very quickly that by combining our skills we could offer a product that was a bit different from a standard gym,” said Lynsey. “We understand that people are looking for something that fits in with their lifestyle so all our classes are tailored to specific audiences. The strategy is paying off and we have now moved into larger premises.

“Starting and running a business can be challenging, but it is hugely rewarding too. There is plenty of help available and we would advise budding entrepreneurs to put a call in to Business Gateway as early as possible.

“Our adviser’s support with our business plan and finding premises was invaluable, and gave us more time to get on with the job of delivering our classes. Now that 360 Degrees Fitness is established we will certainly be looking to Business Gateway for advice on how to continue our growth.”

To find out how Business Gateway can help you, visit www.bgateway.com/west-dunbartonshire, or contact your local office on 0141 530 2408.

...Promotional Space & Retail Merchandise Units...

A great opportunity to promote your business Whether you’re looking to launch a new product, publicise your services, reinforce your market position or identify new customers, our mall promotional spaces present an excellent opportunity with around 140,000 customers visiting the Centre every week.

There are several promotional areas within the malls and occasional vacancies on our retail mall units.

For more information call: 0141 952 6152

Service

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•

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One of Europe’s foremost non-destructive testing organisations.

Inspection Ecosse Limited offer specialised non destructive testing radiographic, ultrasonic, dye penetrant inspection (DPI), magnetic particle inspection (MPI), and positive material identification (PMI), with fully qualified technicians.

We operate in all industries including:

Oil Refining • Petrochemicals • Engineering • Shipping Power Supply • Food and Brewing • Non Destructive Testing A vital role in a variety of industrial, commercial and service applications

Inspection Ecosse Ltd, Unit 1D, Laurieston Industrial Estate, Old Redding Road, Falkirk, FK2 9JU

www.inspectionecosse.com 01324 627 772

New Members CIRCOSENSE

CIRCOSENSE is an innovative company committed to providing its clients with energy savings on their hot water usage, helping them to lower carbon emissions and reduce energy costs.

Logo and photo courtesy of Circosense.

Its key product, CircoSense3000, is unique to the marketplace and gives savings of around 30-45 per cent on energy costs for secondary return hot water systems.

These savings have been independently verified by the Strathclyde Eco Innovation Unit at the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow.

They are typically fitted in offices, leisure sites, hotels, schools – anywhere with a secondary return system.

DEVELOPING THE YOUNG WORKFORCE WEST REGION

DEVELOPING the Young Workforce (DWY) West region group was established following the Wood Commission report.

Regional groups have been created to get more young people into employment by developing sustainable links between employers and schools/ colleges.

Photo and logo courtesy of DYW West.

Funded by the Scottish Government, the three year programme is based at, and hosted by, West College Scotland, Paisley Campus.

Known as DYW West, the region includes West Dunbartonshire, Renfrewshire, East Renfrewshire and Inverclyde. The West Dunbartonshire programme executive is Chloe Dobson and her contact details are opposite.

LOOKING GOOD

Photo courtesy of Sothys UK.

SKIN, HEALTH & BEAUTY CLINIC

40

The system uses cognitive technology to learn the building’s usage patterns, turning on the circulation pump only when there is demand for hot water. It is through this constant learning approach to hot water circulation that the CircoSense3000 reduces carbon emissions and lowers energy costs.

Circosense Unit 14 Fleming Court, 2 North Avenue, Clydebank Business Park, G81 2DR. T: 0333 320 1000 E: j.thomson@circosense.com W: www.circosense.com circosense @circosense circosense-ltd

The programme reports to an employerled board with Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce represented by director, Philip Briscoe of European Circuits Ltd. DYW West programme director, Bob Davidson, said: “This is a great opportunity for employers of all sizes and sectors to help shape their future workforce. I encourage Dunbartonshire chamber members to get involved.”

DWY West, West College Scotland Paisley Campus, Renfrew Rd, Paisley PA3 4DR. T: 07710 715536 E: chloe.dobson@dywwest.co.uk W:www.dywwest.co.uk DYWWestRegion @dywwest

LOOKING Good – Skin, Health & Beauty Clinic opened its doors to pamper and care for clients in 1994 and is proud to be the longest-serving salon in Clydebank.

Aromatherapy massage is a very popular option at Looking Good for both sexes with treatment oils individually blended, focusing on any particular areas of stress or tension.

Owned and operated by Janice Ann Briscoe and Joanne Fortune, it has a superb team of professional therapists.

The salon is a member of the British Association of Beauty Therapists and Cosmetologists (BABTAC).

It is a Sothys accredited skin care clinic and provides access to the latest technology available, moving with the times and continually developing treatments.

Looking Good – Skin, Health & Beauty Clinic 45 Kilbowie Road, Clydebank G81 1BL. T: 0141 951 2480 E: looking-good@tiscali.co.uk or j.fortune7@hotmail.co.uk W: www.looking-goodbeauty.co.uk lookinggoodclydebank @LookGoodSalon

On offer is a wide range of professional therapies including waxing, nail care, massage, laser hair removal and electrolysis, amongst other treatments, full details of which are available on its website.

DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2016

New Members Photo and logo courtesy of the Sandy Barr Management Consultancy.

SANDY BARR MANAGEMENT CONSULTANCY

SANDY BARR MANAGEMENT CONSULTING

THE Sandy Barr Management Consultancy (SBMC) provides transformational and business services to growing small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Sandy is an experienced former chief executive officer (CEO) and managing director with skills in strategic, operational and financial management, developed in SMEs and global multinationals in the engineering, manufacturing and service sectors.

Sandy was CEO from 2012 to 2015 of Birmingham based, £80m Mayerton Holdings Ltd, which was operational in more than 30 countries.

His services include corporate recovery, working capital and change management; strategic business reviews and plans;

SPIRIT OF ALBA

SPIRIT of Alba is an online specialist whisky retailer.

It is a local family business offering, not only quality single malts, but a variety of other exciting spirits, as well as whisky accessories, and a selection of artisan Scottish gifts.

Logo and image courtesy of Spirit of Alba.

If the extensive selection is just too much to take in, then one of its tasting experience’s could be for you.

Spirit of Alba can organise a bespoke tasting designed around your specific requirements – for a group of like-minded friends, a party, business, whatever the reason – Spirit of Alba can help you achieve your desired goal.

succession planning; mentoring; sale of business, and project management.

Assistance can be tailored to the needs of the organisation and he prefers to work as a trusted partner to achieve sustainable transformation moving from ‘survive to strive’ strategies.

A business review and risk analysis is usually recommended as the first step to thoroughly understanding the company and the culture before making any suggestions.

Sandy Barr Management Consultancy T: 0141 942 6671 M: 07774 104578 E: thesandy.barr@virginmedia.com sandy-barr-7157b93

This can open a new adventurous world of aromas and flavours leading to a growing appreciation of your favourite spirit.

Whatever it does, Spirit of Alba, and its founder, Jim Hopkins, aims to excel through the excellence of its products, fairness of price and reliability of service.

Spirit of Alba T: 0141 433 0791 E: jim.hopkins@spiritofalba.com W: www.spiritofalba.com spiritofalba

JOIN NOW TO ACCESS A RANGE OF BENEFITS INCLUDING:

WORKING FOR BUSINESS

• Legal expenses cover up to £670,000 plus 24-hour advice line* • Human resource service including ACAS compliant policies plus health and safety advice and updates • Saving on private medical insurance • Cost effective primary health plan with 10 benefits plus diagnostic scans • FREE business mentoring opportunities • Networking and events • Influencing and lobbying at local and national and EU levels

Can you afford not to join? Entry level membership at less than 40p a day is cost effective and excellent value for money.

Download your application NOW at www.dunbartonshirechamber.co.uk or call our admin team on 0141 280 0272.

DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2016

41

Event Reports

Rugby Hero’s Chamber Team Talk RUGBY union star Al Kellock (pictured above) underlined the importance of being a team player when he spoke to chamber members about leadership.

The former Bishopbriggs High School pupil was capped 56 times for Scotland during an 11-year international career.

It was fitting, therefore, that three senior pupils from his old school, which is now called Bishopbriggs Academy, had the chance to meet their sporting hero at the event.

Gordon Wilson, Callum Haddock and Kyle Shanahan are pictured, below, with

Al at the event in The Eagle Lodge in Bishopbriggs (from L-R).

Kellock captained the national team from 2009 to 2011 and Glasgow Warriors from 2006 until he retired from the game in 2015.

He ended on a high in his last season when Warriors won the Pro 12, the first major trophy for a Scottish side in the professional game.

“It was a fantastic achievement,” he said before going on to explain the three things that led to the Warriors becoming champions.

“First, we had an increased budget so could afford better players to bring more depth to the squad, more stardust to our signings.

42

Key factors were focussing on, celebrating and rewarding success as well as instilling a sense of history and community at the club.

“Secondly, we had the right people on the business side – the best coaches, the best medical team, the best commercial people.

Al is now an ambassador for the sport in Scotland and is a patron of Asthma UK educating young people about how he overcame the condition to reach the top in Scottish rugby.

“Third, we worked hard at creating the right culture, forming a close knit group across the whole organisation, including the fans. It breaks down barriers.”

The chamber event was sponsored by Russell Sim of Sim Property Management (pictured above) with Al and chamber president Stewart Rennie.

DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2016

Politicians Quizzed at Dunbartonshire Hustings PROSPECTIVE Holyrood candidates were quizzed on their policies at well attended chamber hustings meetings in West and East Dunbartonshire.

Standing for West Dunbartonshire were Maurice Corry (Conservative), Andrew Muir (Independent), Jackie Baillie (Labour), Aileen Morton (Liberal Democrats), and Gail Robertson (SNP).

Other issues which the candidates were asked to address included mental health provision, tax and tax evasion, the Barnett Formula, Trident, the Scottish Government’s named person proposals, local government cuts, public services, disability benefits and climate change.

Airport passenger duty, business rates and climate change also featured.

A controversial shared space plan for vehicles and pedestrians in Kirkintilloch was the hot topic at the Strathkelvin and Bearsden hustings.

The future of Faslane Naval Base and the Vale of Leven Hospital were top of the agenda for many at the meeting in the Dumbuck House Hotel in Dumbarton.

In East Dunbartonshire, Rona Mackay (SNP), Katy Gordon (Liberal Democrats), Sheila Mechan, Tory candidate for Glasgow Kelvin, representing Andrew Polson (Conservative), and Margaret McCarthy (Labour) pictured left (from L-R) with chair, Robert Wilson, all agreed that public consultation surrounding shared space was an issue.

Photo by Joyce Martin Photography.

At both meetings chamber president, Stewart Rennie, welcomed everyone while director, Robert Wilson, chaired proceedings.

Visually impaired campaigner, Sandy Taylor, was highly critical of the scheme which he said would mean he and others with disabilities would be unable to use the High Street.

Other topics at the meeting in McGregor House, Kirkintilloch, included education, the living wage, business rates, immigration, refugees and BREXIT.

The Perils of Social Media in the Workplace

Disciplinary issues can also arise in relation to out-of-work activities, for example, an employee attending London Fashion Week while off sick was fairly dismissed for gross misconduct after she posted details on Facebook and YouTube.

EMPLOYERS ignore staff using social media both in and out of the workplace at their peril, says solicitor Lucinda Hunter.

Lucinda concluded by saying that employers should ensure they had appropriate protection in place.

Aside from the issue of time wasting, employees can cause serious reputational damage by posting derogatory comments on the likes of Facebook or Twitter, or use them to bully and harass co-workers.

The employment law specialist with Rennie McInnes LLP, solicitors, (pictured right), urged employers to adopt ‘a sensible and appropriate policy’ at a chamber workshop on the subject.

As this is a fast moving area, any policy must be regularly updated, spell out if social media use will be monitored, and make the consequences of any breach clear in terms of what constitutes misconduct and gross misconduct, the latter justifying instant dismissal.

She looked at what amounted to a fair dismissal in terms of cases such as Walters v Asda Stores and Preece v J D Wetherspoons, and at when an employer can legitimately gag a former employee by obtaining an interdict – which is a court order to stop them from breaching their rights.

DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2016

43

Event Reports Photo courtesy of Scottish Canals.

Bowling Basin Walkabout CHAMBER members heard about the transformation of Bowling Basin on a walkabout with Helena Huws of Scottish Canals.

Construction works for railway arch refurbishment by Custom House and basin landscaping improvements are in their final stages and will soon be marketed as a business opportunity.

Plans for an outdoor activity hub are well underway and will open soon.

Following extensive consultation with stakeholders, including the local community in 2014, work began to create a fitting gateway for the Forth and Clyde canal.

The area is also a strategic point on the Glasgow to Loch Lomond cycle route and is already home to Magic Cycles and Paton’s Parcels gift shop in the first phase of refurbished railway arches,

The Dug Café is now open and welcomes customers and their canine friends for refreshments.

A successful workshop recently saw architectural students at the Mackintosh School of Architecture come up with a concept design for a temporary gateway marker to signpost the area for visitors.

Events Diary...

to book chamber events Call our events team on 0141 280 0272 or e-mail: admin@dunbartonshirechamber.co.uk For updates and the latest events information, check the chamber website and social media.

July The chamber takes a break in July.

August Thursday 25 August 6pm – 8pm

Maid of the Loch £5.5 Million Project Update Photo courtesy of John Beveridge of the Loch Lomond Steamship Company

www.dunbartonshirechamber.co.uk

the £5.5 million project to get the iconic paddle steamer sailing again. £20 members/£30 non-members (+VAT) Includes buffet.

Business Lunch Club Diary Dates Tuesday 12-2pm 9 August & 11 October Virgin Active Milngavie, Strathblane Road, Milngavie G62 8HJ. Tuesday 12-2pm 13 September & 8 November Casa Italia 1 Montrose Street, Clydebank G81 2JF. Members and guests £10 – payable direct to venue.

No speaker, no agenda, just networking!

The Pier, Pier Rd, Balloch G83 8QX. The chamber kicks off a new session with a return visit to the Maid of the Loch for an update from Loch Lomond Steamship Company directors, John Beveridge and Iain Robertson, on

44

DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2016

Meet chamber members, guests and directors for a two-course lunch. Hosted alternately in East and West Dunbartonshire.

Please note that you should still register for this event by e-mailing ad

Business Gateway East Dunbartonshire

Business Gateway West Dunbartonshire

Friday 5 August 9.30am – 12.30pm

Wednesday 20 July 1.30pm – 4.30pm

Milngavie Enterprise Centre

Titan Enterprise, Clydebank

Social Media – What You Need to Know for Business

Website Data Analytics

Increase your understanding of social media and use it to benefit your business.

This workshop unlocks data analytics so you can clearly see where your website traffic is coming from and why, transforming your website’s effectiveness.

Wednesday 17 August 9.30am – 12.30pm

Friday 22 July 9.30am – 12.30pm & 1.30pm – 4.30pm

McGregor House, Kirkintilloch

Titan Enterprise, Clydebank

Marketing Your Business

Business Planning Start-up Workshop

Create a realistic marketing plan, improve how you market your business and increase sales.

A two part course covering all aspects of starting a business including business planning, finance, market research and marketing.

Friday 9 September 9.30am – 12.30pm McGregor House, Kirkintilloch

Twitter Masterclass Find out what Twitter is all about and use it effectively for your business.

Tuesday 26 July 6pm – 9pm Titan Enterprise, Clydebank

Bookkeeping Find out about the importance of keeping financial records.

Wednesday 14 September 9.30am – 12.30pm

Thursday 28 July 6pm – 9pm

Milngavie Enterprise Centre

Titan Enterprise, Clydebank

Bookkeeping

Marketing Your Business

Equip yourself with the knowledge and skills necessary to manage your finances and comply with regulatory and legal requirements using a relevant bookkeeping system.

Create a realistic marketing plan, improve how you market your business and increase sales.

Friday 30 September 9.30am – 12.30pm

Monday 8 and Tuesday 9 August 6pm – 9pm (both evenings)

McGregor House, Kirkintilloch

Titan Enterprise, Clydebank

Social Media – What You Need to Know for Business

Business Planning Start-up Workshop

Increase your understanding of social media and use it to benefit your business.

A two part course covering all aspects of starting a business including business planning, finance, market research and marketing.

Wednesday 5 October 9.30am – 12.30pm

Thursday 25 August 9.30am – 12.30pm

Milngavie Enterprise Centre

LinkedIn for Business (Intermediate)

Marketing Your Business

Boost your business with LinkedIn. We’ll take you beyond networking by showing you how to market your products and promote your brand.

Create a realistic marketing plan, improve how you market your business and increase sales.

More information and booking at www.bgateway.com/localoffices/east-dunbartonshire/local-events/ or call 0141 578 8530

To book call Katie or Jemma on 0141 530 2408.

DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2016

45

“At all stages of the school, children and young people are highly motivated and actively involved in their learning.”

Education Scotland

Lomond, Argyll’s top performing school, offers a wide-ranging curriculum including Eight National Fives in S3/S4 and the traditional Five Highers in S5. Pupils have access to an extensive programme of extra-curricular and outdoor learning including hockey, rugby, sailing, skiing, canoeing and much more.

Contact admissions@lomondschool.com to arrange a free no obligation taster day. lomondschool.com | 10 Stafford Street, Helensburgh G84 9JX | Tel 01436 672 476

We are a small family run delicatessen and cafe, Daughter (Julie) and Mother (Lin). Been trading for five years, serving home cooked food, including full breakfast, tasty soups and made to order sandwiches and panini. All baking is home made including scones, carrot cake and thick caramel slice.

Deli and grocery products are mainly sourced from Scottish producers and suppliers, along with a selection of ingredients for around the world.

10 Ancaster Square, Callander, FK17 8ED Tel: 01877 331220 email: deli.ecosse@yahoo.co.uk www.deliecosse.co.uk

Normal opening hours Oct - Easter 8.30am til 5pm Thursday to Tuesday, Closed on Wednesday. Easter to Oct 8am til 5pm.

If you are planning a day in the great outdoors, pop into the deli to fuel up before venturing out or enjoy a well earned coffee and cake afterwards.

Outdoor seating available, weather permitting, so enjoy a coffee or cold beer while watching the rest of the world go by.

Call us: +44 (0)1259 726672 Email: info@veitchcooper.com Website: www.veitchcooper.com Company Number: SC481213

Have a free book on us.

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If your club or marina would benefit from a professionally designed and printed book with no cost to you, then contact us on 0141 222 2202 for more information.

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