InCommerce Dundee & Angus by dtech

WINTER 2013

DunDee & angus CHAMBER OF COMMERCE business magazine

£21 million printing press formally launched

• AGM Business to Business Showcase a big success • Apprentices key to Rigmar Fabrication’s future • 42 New Chamber members

DUNDEE & ANGUS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.dundeeandanguschamber.co.uk Member Helpline 01382 228545

36329 Avian Chamber Magazine advert_36329 Avian Chamber Magazine advert 15/10/2013 10:34 Page 1

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Contents On the cover £21 million printing press formally launched .............................. 5 AGM Business to Business Showcase a big success.................... 24

Jim Pickett

A word from the president

Apprentices key to Rigmar Fabrication’s future.............. 37 42 New Chamber members......... 38-41

Other Chamber News................................. 4-6 Economic Pendulum Swinging in Right Direction................................ 7

t’s been a time of reflection for me recently as I’m now the longest serving Director on the Board, having served almost six years. In all that time, it has been an enormous source of satisfaction to see how we have grown, from tentative beginnings and just 30 members back in 2007, to where we are now with around 450 members employing 35,000 people.

Member News - Celebrating Success................... 10-15

Our 12 Platinum Partners include the largest employers in the region and generously support the Chamber because they understand the value of having a strong voice for business at the heart of the local economy. We share the objective of trying to ensure that the private, public and voluntary sectors all work together towards improved economic prosperity, more skilled jobs and investment.

Abertay University Celebrates 125 Years of Education..................... 21

Small businesses form the backbone of the Scottish economy and I’m personally very proud that more than 60% of our member businesses come into that category. I’m proud because, in spite of all the pressures of running a small business, often singlehandedly or with a very small workforce, hard-working local entrepreneurs are still keen to be part of the Chamber community and to work together for business benefit. Long may that continue. Now, as 2014 approaches and Dundee and Angus Chamber of Commerce starts work on its business strategy for the next three years, I feel the time is right for me to pass the baton on to others to take the Chamber through the next phase of development. I have therefore decided to retire as President at the end of this year.

Our Platinum Partners................. 18-19 Dundee and Angus College’s Big Day............................................... 20

Member Survey Results.................... 25 In Business - Marketing................... 30 In Business - Law............................... 31 In Business - Culture and Values...... 33 The Courier Business Awards 2013................. 32-33 Dundee Economic Round-up........... 34 Constitutional Debate...................... 35 Guest Business Write........................ 42 Meeting Room and Events............... 45 Membership Benefits........................ 46

Our two new Vice Presidents, Alison Henderson of My Pinkie Promise and David Valentine of Valentine International Business Connections, will steer the Chamber until the Board of Directors nominate a new President. I wish them and all Chamber members all the best for the future. I also hope to see many of you at the Christmas “do” this year. Please come along and join in the festive fun.

Jim Pickett, President Managing Director, Dellburn Transport Limited & Liftruks

For advertising contact DTech on T: 01436 678808 E: sales@incommerce.biz Editorial Team: Sandra Burke (Editor), Mike Stirling, Jennifer Kinnear and Irene Duncan – submit articles and stories to info@dundeeandanguschamber.co.uk Publisher: DTech Distribution: DTech Distribution InCommerce is published by DTech. 20 East Argyle Street, Helensburgh G84 7RR. Telephone 01436 678808. E-mail: info@dtechuk.com. 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 subagents 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 DTech Publishing Ltd. Front Cover: DC Thomson & Co Ltd

chamber news

Will Scottish Businesses be Better, Safer and Stronger if Scotland Chooses to Remain in the Union?

W Sandra Burke Chief Executive and Editor

can hardly believe it’s more than six months since I started in this role. Spring and summer have flown past in a flurry of meetings, events, projects, media engagement and many other highlights. I’ve enjoyed meeting members, visiting lots of companies, representing the Chamber in many different ways and working with our small staff team and the Directors to make things happen. It’s also been really heartening to have such positive, practical encouragement and messages of support from several long-standing and new members of the Chamber. Thanks to you all.

e hosted a presentation and debate with Michael Moore MP, then Secretary of State for Scotland, at the University of Abertay in late August. The Secretary of State was keen to hear the views of the business community in Dundee and Angus and to share his opinions on the independence debate. More than 50 Chamber members came along to hear what the Minister had to say and to ask a range of searching questions. Chamber President, Jim Pickett set the scene with his observations on the economic prospects for Dundee and Angus, and chaired the lively question and answer session. Thanks to Chamber Platinum Partner, the University of Abertay, for hosting the event.

You’ve been telling me you’d like to see us deliver more services for members, run more and even better events, and be at the heart of every local economic, industry sector and business improvement partnership. To be able to do that we need to build an ever bigger and stronger membership base that fully reflects the diverse mix of businesses and other employers we have in Dundee and Angus. It’s a big challenge for the future and I’m therefore looking forward to working with the Board of Directors to develop and deliver the business plan for the next three years. I was interested to read a UK Government report on the value of Chambers of Commerce around the world. It said “Chambers are remarkably resilient organisations that have stood the test of time, despite the challenging conditions they have faced both past and present. They have, particularly overseas, an incredibly strong brand. We should orientate business support around the chambers and build upon the value of their brand in the global arena”. The report, “No Stone Unturned” by Michael Heseltine, demonstrated the impact of having a strong local Chamber of Commerce wherever you are in the world. We invite businesses and employers throughout the region to help build and strengthen Dundee & Angus Chamber of Commerce as a strong local voice for business and economic prosperity. Let’s encourage everyone we meet in business to join up and get involved. On behalf of the Chamber team, I wish everyone an enjoyable festive season and a very prosperous New Year. We hope you like the new-look magazine. Please be sure to let us know what you think.

DUNDEE & ANGUS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Left to right: Jim Pickett President of Dundee & Angus Chamber of Commerce, Nigel Seaton of Abertay University, Michael Moore MP and Sandra Burke Chief Executive of Dundee & Angus Chamber of Commerce

chamber news

Angus Business Breakfast at Kinnettles Castle

here was a great turnout of more than 70 for breakfast when the splendid Kinnettles Castle near Forfar hosted our recruitment event for members in Angus and their guests. Speakers Richard Stiff, Chief Executive of Angus Council, and Neil Prentice, Senior Service Manager Economic Development, spoke about and took questions on the new Angus Economic Development Strategy. Afterwards, several members toured the venue to see the luxurious accommodation and excellent conference and meeting room facilities.

Prince Charles Meets Dennis the Menace The world’s most famous menace showed no-one is safe from his mischief when he came face-to-face with royalty.

ennis the Menace decided to pull a prank on Prince Charles during the royal visit to Dundee. The Beano favourite ignored royal protocol as the Prince of Wales tried to shake his hand by pulling it away and making a funny face instead. But the Duke of Rothesay was able to see the funny side and laughed off Dennis’s joke. Prince Charles and Camilla toured the DC Thomson building at Kingsway, Dundee on 11 June to formally open the company’s new £21 million newspaper presses and mark their appearance in an edition of The Beano. Chief Executive Sandra Burke and Chamber Platinum Partners, David Dorward, Chief Executive of Dundee City Council and John Reid, Factory Manager of Michelin Dundee, were also invited to participate in the celebrations and meet the royal couple. Story and photo © DC Thomson & Co Ltd

Pakistan Consulate Representative in Scotland for Trade Talks

r Muhammad Amir Thahim, Commercial Secretary, Consulate General of Pakistan based in Manchester, visited Scotland in July to meet several business organisations and brief on Expo Pakistan. His visit to Dundee was hosted by Dundee City Councillor Mohammed Asif, seen here with Chief Executive Sandra Burke, who accepted the Consulate’s commemorative plaque to mark the visit and the discussion with the Chamber of Commerce.

Chamber chief on Courier Biomass Public Debate Panel

Panel left to right: Andrew Watterson, Stirling University; Bob Adam, Residents Against Tay Turbines; John Letford, former Lord Provost; Sandra Burke, Chief Executive of Dundee & Angus Chamber of Commerce; Calum Wilson, Managing Director of Forth Energy; Dr Joseph Akunna, environmental technology scientist; Andrew Llanwarne, Friends of the Earth Tayside co-ordinator. Photo provided by DC Thomson & Co Ltd

ust 10 days into her appointment as Chief Executive, Sandra Burke gave a spirited and articulate account of Chamber member views at the lively Courier Biomass Plant public debate at the Gardyne Theatre. Around 400 people came along to hear what the panel had to say and to ask questions. Chairman for the evening was Courier deputy editor Steve Bargeton. The panel also included Andrew Watterson of Stirling University, Bob Adam of Residents Against Tay Turbines, former Lord Provost John Letford, Calum Wilson, Managing Director of project backers Forth Energy, environmental technology scientist Dr Joseph Akunna and Friends of the Earth Tayside co-ordinator Andrew Llanwarne. At the subsequent planning committee meeting in late June, Dundee councillors voted by 20 to 6 not to support the harbour biomass proposal in a move that means the next step may be a public inquiry.

www.dundeeandanguschamber.co.uk 5 Member Helpline 01382 228545

chamber news

Chamber Golf Day Winners

he 2013 Chamber Golf Day at Scotscraig Golf Course in Tayport was a great success, with lovely warm weather, competitive golf and lots of good networking opportunities. Blue2 Digital was delighted to take the team trophy and law firm MacRoberts finished in second place.

Chamber Members Get Out and About to More RBS Explorer Breakfasts

Thanks to event sponsor GS Group, to Langstane Press for the goodie bags, Platinum Golf Management for helping to organise the event, Scotscraig Golf Course and all the participants for making it such a great day out. Some teams have already signed up for next year. If you’d like to be the main sponsor, contact Membership Manager, Dave Nicholson on 01382 228545 to discuss.

ur Explorer Business Breakfasts, generously sponsored by RBS Commercial Banking, continue to be extremely popular with new and long-standing Chamber members. These events provide a behind-the-scenes glimpse of local business operations whilst also offering good networking opportunities. Thanks to National Express Dundee for hosting a visit in June and to Dundee Airport for their tour held in September. At the time of going to print, we look forward to the next Explorer Breakfast at the Nynas Refinery on 14 November. In 2014 we hope to visit the thriving Port of Montrose, Stoneridge Electronics, Maggie’s Centre and newest Chamber member, hotel Malmaison. Watch the Events section of the website for the latest updates .

George Stubbs, GS Group (left) and Sandra Burke (right) with the winning team from Blue2 Digital.

Explorer Breakfast @ Dundee Airport, September 2013

AGM – Dundee & Angus Chamber of Commerce AGM, September 2013 Photos by David Lozowy Photography

Meet the Leader with Michael Moore MP, August 2013

Chamber President Jim Pickett welcomes two new directors, Mark Munsie of Dundee Heritage Trust and Stuart Grant of Apex City Quay Hotel and Spa.

DUNDEE & ANGUS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.dundeeandanguschamber.co.uk/events

scoTTIsh chambers of commerce

Economic Pendulum Swinging in Right Direction Liz Cameron, Chief Executive.

cottish Chambers of Commerce has released its Business Survey results for the third quarter of 2013. The survey, now in its 30th year and conducted in conjunction with the University of Strathclyde’s Fraser of Allander Institute, reported that in all sectors trends in business confidence are stronger than a year ago, indicating that the economy is still progressing towards pre-recession levels. But the recovery remains frail and it is apparent that its sustainability is by no means yet certain. Liz Cameron, Chief Executive, Scottish Chambers of Commerce, said: “The Scottish Chambers of Commerce Quarterly Business Survey shows welcome signs of growth for Scotland’s economy. The hard work of Scotland’s businesses is to be commended. These results show that we are on the right track. We now need to ensure that this renewed confidence continues to follow an upward trend. “Compared to a year ago, business confidence has increased and all business trends in all sectors are stronger, showing positive steps towards sustained economic growth. There are encouraging signs of increased consumer activity with improving retail sales and stronger tourism trends. This is good news for Scotland and for Scotland’s businesses. “The manufacturing sector has seen orders rise at the highest rate since 2007, construction respondents reported a rise in investment intentions and the long-term decline in retail sales

ended with retailers reporting increased optimism for the first time since 2006. “However, economic vulnerability remains. Much depends on continuing positive trends in our major export markets and on speedy resolution of any remaining US fiscal issues. Importantly, prices and wages remain disconnected and so household incomes continue to be squeezed; this creates risk in reliance on a consumer driven economy, which is why Government rhetoric about investment and sustainability needs to become a reality to enable continued growth and confidence. “Business confidence and future optimism is on the right course and governments must align their policies with businesses to continue this journey of a sustainable recovery. Now is the time for a comprehensive review across the Scottish Government of all business support provided by the public sector in Scotland, to make certain that Scotland’s EU funding allocation and other public spending is being invested effectively to catalyse and ensure solid Scottish economic growth. “The survey results demonstrate that there is a need for Scottish international exports to accelerate. Increasing international export income is an important element of strengthening economic recovery. Scottish Government must increase and improve support to Scottish businesses to complete globally.” www.scottishchambers.org.uk

www.dundeeandanguschamber.co.uk 7 Member Helpline 01382 228545

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HESE are exciting times for Dundee as the face of the city undergoes a far-reaching makeover.

The high profile changes to the waterfront have been capturing headlines far beyond the City of Discovery and they personify the positive mood which is easily discernible to locals and visitors alike. But it’s not just down to the imminent arrival of the V and A on the riverside, the new-look station and the Malmaison. The success of Ninewells Hospital and the highly regarded universities, along with other business sector accomplishments, has triggered spin-off benefits in the rural hinterland. It has also had an impact on the Tayside property scene.

But Mr Ryder stressed: “The main reason for this decrease is the return of First Time Buyers and the increasing number of flats that have been sold. That is vital to the wellbeing of the wider market. “I firmly believe the health of the property market should be measured in terms of the number of properties being sold, rather than the average house price. “Help to Buy and other government schemes have helped purchasers get onto the property ladder, the majority of properties being sold are around the Home Report figure and with the banks lending again we are seeing the reemergence of closing dates for the first time in four years. “In some cases we are seeing homes selling within a month and at the TSPC we anticipate continuing and steady progress next year.”

Peter Ryder, chief executive of the Tayside Solicitors Property Centre, noted that the market had recorded a string of monthly advances since the spring and the outlook was optimistic for 2014. He said: “The year started slowly but by April we were beginning to see signs of recovery. Since then the mood has been very upbeat and we are on track to record the most successful year since the banking crisis and the recession kicked-in.”

Peter Ryder

Chief Executive

By the end of October, the TSPC in Whitehall Crescent – where 90% of local homes are marketed and sold by member legal firms – a total of 2,008 properties had changed hands, generating an impressive £271,856,859. Mr Ryder noted: “This marked an overall increase of 10% compared to 2012. November figures are also looking good and we expect another 200-plus sales over the course of the month, which again will exceed last November’s figure.” The average Tayside house price now comes in at £135,569 compared to £140,544 at the same staging post last year, representing a 3.54% decline.

9 Whitehall Crescent Dundee DD1 4AR Tel: 01382 228770 Fax: 01382 228650 www.tspc.co.uk Opening Hours: Mon–Fri: 9.00am – 5pm Saturday: 10.00am – 1.00pm

ADVERTISING FEATURE

OPTIMISTIC OUTLOOK FOR 2014

member news

Angus Ambassador Awards

ongratulations to the Chamber member finalists in the Angus Ambassador Awards 2013. Hydrus Energy Engineering Ltd is up for the Business Ambassador and The Hideaway Experience is a finalist in the Tourism Ambassador category.

Angus Centre of Enterprise

www.angusahead.com/AngusAhead/ AngusAmbassadorAwards/2013/

oe Hunter of Z.D Jewellery Design and Lee Baker of ChiSquared Innovations are the very well-deserved winners of Angus Centre for Enterprise Think Big! business competition. They shared a £10,000 prize fund and were granted Dundee and Angus Chamber of Commerce membership. enterprise.angus.ac.uk

Beam

he Dundee orthodontic practice, which prides itself on transforming smiles, is vying for three categories within the Dentistry Scotland Awards 2013: ‘Best Dental Team’, ‘Best Specialist Practice’ and ‘Practice of the Year – North’. We wish them the best of luck! www.beamortho.com

Left to right: Victoria Spendiff, Finance Director; Jim Patrick, Operations Director; Scott McCallum, Managing Director.

Avian Communications Network

wo of Dundee’s award-winning marketing and agencies, Avian Communications and Blue Square have joined forces to become Avian Communications Network with two divisional companies – Avian Communications and Blue2 Digital. The new Avian Communications Network plans ambitious growth, seeking additional premises and staff. www.aviancommunicationsnetwork.co.uk

DUNDEE & ANGUS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Photo provided by Grainger Public Relations.

CELEBRATING SUCCESS Simon Allison of Blackadders Solicitors. Photo provided by Blackadders LLP.

Blackadders Solicitors

e would like to congratulate Blackadders Solicitors on the announcement that partner Simon Allison has been accredited by the Law Society of Scotland as a specialist in employment law. Simon is the eighth partner at Blackadders to become a specialist in his field. www.blackadders.co.uk

Campbell Dallas

Patricia Barclay, Bonaccord Founder. Photo provided by Bonaccord.

Bonaccord

well-deserved pat on the back to Bonaccord who won the UK Life Science Law Firm of the Year award in both the Acquistion International M&A awards and the ACQ Global Awards. www.bonaccord.eu

ne of Taysideâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest firms of independent Accountants, Campbell Dallas, have invested in a further five trainees and a new Business Advisory Services Manager to help in their continued growth. We wish all of their new recruits the best of luck! www.campbelldallas.co.uk

Clearwater Hydrotherapy

wned by Leanne and Chris Morris, the Clearwater Hydrotherapy Relaxation Centre in Dundee opened in October 2013 and houses the only chlorine-free hydrotherapy pool and hydrotherapy treadmill available to hire in Scotland. www.clearwaterhydrotherapy.co.uk

Photo provided by Clearwater Hydrotherapy.

Left to right: Kim Young, Lynne Wilson, Alastair Stewart, Sandra Guthrie, Emma Deans, Elise Henderson. Photo provided by Campbell Dallas.

www.dundeeandanguschamber.co.uk 11 Member Helpline 01382 228545

member news

Bid to Protect Dundee Cake

group of Dundee bakers are fronting the bid to afford Dundee cake the same protected status given to worldwide names such as Stornoway Black Pudding, Arbroath Smokies and Melton Mowbray pies. Local bakers Martin Goodfellow and Alan Clark are leading the bid, along with Iain Murray, Deacon of Baker Trade of Dundee. Currently, anyone anywhere can produce a fruit cake in the style of a Dundee cake and brand it as such, which means there is no quality control. Protection will mean that ingredients must be of a certain standard and that only bakers within Dundee city limits can produce the cake.

DC THOMSON

latinum member DC Thomson’s The Beano won Best Classic Licensed Property at The Licensing Awards 2013. The Beano was shortlisted alongside other classic brands including Barbie, Batman, Doctor Who and SpongeBob SquarePants. The award was presented to Tim Collins, Head of Brand at DC Thomson, by Ed Byrne.

Left to right: Sabrina Segalov, Karen Stewart, Hilary Mudie, Tim Collins, Peter Thompson (Managing Director of Half Moon Bay), Gordon Tait, Ian Downes and comedian Ed Byrne.

Iain stresses that protected status would make it easier for bakers to convince premium food stores such as Sainsbury’s, Fortnum & Mason and Harrods to stock genuine Dundee Cake as a first-class product and would be especially profitable over the Christmas period. This brings with it the potential for economic development opportunities for Dundee as bakers move into the city to purposely produce the cake.

Photo provided by DC Thomson & Co Ltd.

Left to right: Alan Clark of Clarks Bakery; Martin Goodfellow of Goodfellow & Steven; Paul Hollywood, co-judge on BBC’s The Great British Bake Off and Rob Sinclair, Bakery Manager at Goodfellow & Steven.

Heal Physiotherapy

ongratulations to Lynne Falconer and Sally Kiddie of Heal Physiotherapy on their Association of Scottish Businesswomen Most Enterprising Business Award! www.healphysiotherapy.co.uk

Left to right: Lynne Falconer and Sally Kiddie of Heal Physiotherapy, Hugh Lightbody, Chief Officer of the Business Gateway, Sheila Hogan, ASB Chairwoman.

Photo provided by Heal Physiotherapy.

DUNDEE & ANGUS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Where Business and Personal Planning Meet If you are successful, the hard work and risk-taking that translates into business value and personal wealth frequently mean that that trend continues right through to the time when you decide to retire or exit your business. However, if we stop to think, our business and personal affairs are inextricably linked, and we should be planning for them both together. For example, people who move from employment to business ownership sometimes do not take stock and realise that their affairs have become more complex. Whether new or old to business ownership, anyone who is a business owner can benefit from time spent thinking about their future business plans and the complementary plans they should put in place for themselves and their family. For those who are in business with others, time spent planning for when your business relationships change is crucial. Do your plans for when you want to exit or retire from your business coincide with those of your business partners? What happens if one of you wants to sell and the other doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t?

Do you want your children to join your business? Do they, and how do you treat those that do fairly compared with those who donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t? If your business partners are family members, a whole range of issues can arise. Bringing these issues to the surface and working through them is almost always beneficial and there are well-used legal mechanisms for helping to underpin the decisions you might reach with your business partners and family. It can bring a renewed sense of purpose and direction to you, your colleagues and those closest to you. Of course, the tax system is designed in part to encourage and discourage different behaviour in our business and personal dealings, through retirement and to death. Tax considerations can be an important part of planning for yourself and your business, with the goal of achieving your business and personal objectives in a tax efficient manner. And while we all hope to live healthily well beyond retirement, a surprising number of business people do not have an up to date will and power of attorney in place. A little time invested in these, in critical illness cover and life assurance can help your business and your family so much in the event that you die or become incapacitated unexpectedly, and a will can also be an important part of your tax planning.

At Blackadders we pride ourselves on the breadth of our expertise in advising on business matters and on personal matters. When we collaborate with clients and colleagues in advising them on their business and personal affairs together, we can achieve much more. Campbell Clark Partner & Head of Business Group

ADVERTISING FEATURE

When youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re in business, the pressures on time can lead to business and personal planning being done in isolation. Starting up or buying into a business involves a huge amount of focus, and often there simply is no time to step back and consider how your business interests and personal and family circumstances interact.

member news

Maggie’s Dundee

e’d like to wish Maggie’s Dundee a very Happy Birthday. On 25 September, they celebrated their 10th birthday.

Photo provided by Mackays.

www.maggiescentres.org/dundee

Paul Grant (left), recipient and Chairman of Mackays. His son Martin Grant (right), Managing Director for Mackays.

Mackays Ltd

Photo provided by Maggie’s Dundee.

China’s ‘One Choice’ For Scotch Whisky

ongratulations to Paul Grant, chairman of Mackays, who has been recognised with the inaugural Outstanding Achievement Award at the Scotland Food and Drink Excellence Awards.

Photo provided by NFU Mutual.

www.mackays.com

fter a much-awaited period of distillation, a container of Scotch whisky branded “The Angus” will be heading eastwards as a result of collaboration between Yuet Yu, Angus Dundee Distillers and Angus Council. The well-known Angus businessman with family roots in Hong Kong and Southern China explains his initiative began over a year ago when David Valentine, Angus Council’s then Head of Economic Development and current Vice President of Dundee and Angus Chamber of Commerce, suggested he should consider naming his Scotch whisky “The Angus”. The modern form of the original Gaelic name Aonghas composed of the two elements meaning “one” and “choice”. There couldn’t be a more fitting name for the Scotch whisky as there is only one distillery in Angus, therefore only one choice of producer and this was to be Glencadam at Brechin. Excellent achievement for Angus, David Valentine and Yuet Yu. “As well as capitalising on the clear market opportunity, the name on the label will help to promote Angus as a destination”- Yuet Yu.

Left to right: Natasha Kaplinsky, Lindsay Sinclair (CEO NFU Mutual), Anna Stephenson (East Region Claims), Jeremy Parker (NFU Mutual Agent and DACC member), Rolf Wilson (General Manager), Peter Vicary-Smith (Chief Executive of Which?).

NFU Mutual

FU Mutual were named Best Financial Services Provider at the 2013 Which? Awards. Accepting the award Mr Sinclair said: “I am extremely proud to accept this award on behalf of everyone at NFU Mutual. We’re known for the way we look after our customers and this is great recognition of what we work so hard to achieve.” www.nfumutual.co.uk Left to right: Douglas Fitchett, Distillery Manager; Mrs Fong Yu; Angus Provost Helen Oswald; Mr Yuet Yu, Angus businessman; David Valentine, Valentine International Business Connections and DACC Vice President.

DUNDEE & ANGUS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

CELEBRATING SUCCESS Vivomotion makes 2D and 3D animations showing the work of scientists that is complex and commonly cannot be seen by the naked eye. New chamber member Dr Mhairi Towler is finding that 2013 has been an incredible start-up year for her business, Vivomotion, as she has collected two major awards in just a few months.

Triple Award Success for Vivomotion

Photo provided by Angus Forbes.

ivomotion plugs a gap in the market for creative animation and visualisation of science. The result is quite stunning images that both educate and inform, which are also extremely attractive as works of art. We are indebted to Mhairi for donating some of her images to the Chamber, which are now hanging in the meeting room for all to see and enjoy.

Left to right: Mhairi Towler with Hugh Lightbody of Business Gateway and ASB Chairwoman Sheila Hogan.

Helped by training through the Cultural Enterprise Office’s Starter for Six programme, some start-up funding from Dundee City Council and a graduate enterprise fellowship from Dundee University’s Enterprise Gym, Dr. Towler has just completed her award-winning first year of trading. She hopes Vivomotion can continue to grow in the coming year, with a funding application to support the addition of a full-time animator and business development officer. She is also focused on developing new intellectual property. www.vivomotion.co.uk t: 01382 381245

Winner of the Most Innovative Start-Up of the Year Award 2013, honoured at the annual Association of Scottish Businesswomen’s awards, Mhairi has also triumphed the Independent Woman of the Year Award at the Women Ahead 2013 Business Awards and the 2012 ‘Principals Prize for Enterprise and Entrepreneurship’.

Still from ‘Chromonema’, a short animated film produced by Dr. Mhairi Towler for her Masters project in Animation and Visualisation at Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art & Design, 2012.

Your Scotland Tours

ongratulations to Your Scotland Tours on their recent WorldHost Certification confirming their excellence in customer service. Frank Alexander, founder of Your Scotland Tours, said of the certificate “We went for WorldHost because Dundee as a city has the ambition to become a WorldHost City (like London before us), and I wanted to get involved and lead by example.” yourscotlandtours.com

Westport Serviced Apartments

ell done to Westport Serviced Apartments on their recent award win! They were named Most Stylish Serviced Apartments at the Scottish Hotel Awards 2013. www.westportservicedapartments.com

www.dundeeandanguschamber.co.uk 15 Member Helpline 01382 228545

ADVERTISING FEATURE

EMPLOYERS HELP TOWARDS DELIVERING THE FUTURE RESERVE FORCES by HRFCA chief executive, AK Miller

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

oUr pLaTInUm parTners

Our Platinum Members form a close and mutually-beneficial relationship with Dundee and Angus Chamber of Commerce, working with us to develop a strong local business sector and to promote Dundee and Angus as a world-class destination.

Abertay University

DC Thomson

Nigel Seaton, Principal and Vice-Chancellor.

Ellis Watson, CEO.

Abertay is a modern university with a long history and a clear sense of their distinctive mission. On 15 October 2013, Abertay University celebrated its 125th anniversary of its foundation as Dundee Technical Institute.

Angus Council Richard Stiff, Chief Executive. Angus Council wishes to create strong secure communities, an enterprising workforce, and sustainable development over the range of public services for which it has responsibility. The Scottish Government is providing an extra £528,000 of grant funding through their affordable housing supply programme, which takes the amount available to the council and its partners to £5.199 million for the next two years up to March 2015.

This year The Courier launched its first Business Awards, celebrating the most successful businesses in The Courier’s circulation area. You can read more about the awards on page 33.

Dundee and Angus College Christina Potter, Principal. The new college’s mission is ‘leading learning, inspiring success.’ Dundee and Angus College merged on 1 November, heralding a bright new future for both institutions. See page 20 for full story.

Bank of Scotland

Dundee City Council

Stewart Martin, Senior Manager SME Banking.

David Dorward, Chief Executive.

Bank of Scotland was founded by an Act of the Scottish Parliament on 17th July 1695. It is Scotland’s first and oldest bank, and post-dates the Bank of England by just one year. Brechin Youth Project; HedzUp; Angus Foodbank (Kirriemuir); Angus Riding for the Disabled (Forfar) have been short listed for a 2013 Bank of Scotland Community Fund. The scheme aims to help local people who have an impact on their communities by giving grants.

DC Thomson is one of the leading publishing houses in the UK. The company publishes newspapers, magazines, comics and books, and also has interests in radio, printing, retailing and online services.

DUNDEE & ANGUS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Dundee is the only Scottish city shortlisted for the prestigious title of City of Culture in 2017 – an accolade which it is claimed could be worth up to £80 million and create up to 1,000 new jobs for the city.

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They are some of the biggest and best employers in our city region, and all make a strong and lasting contribution to local prosperity. They are instinctive participants in the 21st century knowledge economy, keen sharers of best practice and expert in their fields.

GlaxoSmithKline

NHS Tayside

Andy Ross, Site Director.

Gerry Marr, Chief Executive.

GSK is a science-led global healthcare company that researches and develops a broad range of innovative medicines and brands.

“NHS Tayside strive to deliver excellent care with compassion, dignity and respect.”

GSK and Barclays have formed a new partnership which aims to increase access to affordable healthcare and medicines for people in Zambia.

Michelin Tyre PLC John Reid, Factory Manager and Head of Operations. Incorporated in the UK in May 1905, the company is now involved in many activities alongside its traditional tyremaking business, from tyre industry training to economic development to publishing.

The Paediatric Imaging Tayside Study Sessions (PITSS) team at NHS Tayside has been named the UK Radiography Team of the Year 2013.

The James Hutton Institute Iain Gordon, Chief Executive. International research centre involved in tackling some of the world’s most challenging problems.

Michelin is driving changes in the medium-weight truck and coach market with new tyres which are safer, more fuelefficient and quieter.

The James Hutton Institute has secured more than £3 million in new funding from the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council in conjunction with the Scottish Government for four projects to improve food security for some of the world’s most valuable crops.

mtc.

University of Dundee

David Rankine, Business Development Director.

Pete Downes, Principal & ViceChancellor.

mtc. offers a complete, rounded web design and development service.

The University exists to transform lives, locally and globally, through the creation, sharing and application of knowledge.

mtc. recently completed work on Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance’s website of which mtc. founder David Rankine is an ambassador.

The Dundee iGEM team have been crowned European champions in a prestigious international competition designed to advance science and education, and will now go forward to the World Final in Boston.

www.dundeeandanguschamber.co.uk 19 Member Helpline 01382 228545

PLATINUM PARTNER

DUNDEE & ANGUS COLLEGE

Business Pledge from Tayside’s New Player The Principal also has an MBA (with Distinction) from Warwick University. “Extending the services provided to businesses and employers is a priority at Dundee and Angus College,” asserted the Principal. “With economies of scale and more efficient management and support systems in place the new college plans to save about £3million in the two years after its launch. “These savings will allow maximum funding to be targeted towards learning and teaching and supporting students, and also expanding all of the services on offer to business organisations and employers.” Some local businesses have already enjoyed a visit from Dundee and Angus College staff. Staff at Taylor Wimpey, one of the largest home-builders in the UK, were happy to help promote Dundee and Angus College’s new logo by showing of the new emblem in their Arbroath premises. The D&A brand also received a warm welcome from staff at Mackays preserves factory in Arbroath. The new college will maintain a key focus of business development and work closely with the business community to ensure training provision meets their needs.

here is a new player in Tayside. Dundee and Angus College came into being on Friday, November 1.

Among one of the first acts undertaken by the head of the new organisation was a pledge to the business community to increase the services the newer, bigger college will offer in terms of training, certification and business advice. Principal Christina Potter is no stranger to the business world, having had a successful career in the computing industry, mainly with ICL but also at RBS and Scottish & Newcastle Breweries, before moving into further education.

DUNDEE & ANGUS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Dundee and Angus College can support a variety of sectors to grow and develop their businesses through bespoke training, consultancy and knowledge transfer activity. Sectors include: life sciences, computer games, energy, tourism, health, performing arts, manufacturing and services industries. To help ensure businesses achieve their full potential the new college provides a range of training and mentoring provision. www.dundeecollege.ac.uk/wwb Photo provided by Dundee and Angus College.

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Abertay University Celebrates 125 Years of Education

bertay University celebrated the 125th anniversary of its foundation as Dundee Technical Institute on Tuesday 15th October.

The Institute was formally opened on that day in 1888 by Mr Swire Smith, a woollen manufacturer from Keighley in Yorkshire. At the opening he said: “the ladder of learning has been raised aloft in Dundee”. 238 students enrolled in the first session, with classes offered in jute, spinning and applied art. Many of the students went on to management positions in major textile companies here in Dundee and overseas. The anniversary was celebrated with an all-staff photograph and an official Abertay Anniversary Cake, picked in a blind tasting from recipes submitted by staff and students. Professor Nigel Seaton, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of Abertay University, said: “I’m very pleased to be celebrating this anniversary with colleagues from across the university’s schools and services.

to anyone who would benefit, no matter their background, to improve their life chances. “The subjects we teach have changed dramatically from those based on the textile industries and maritime trade that first made Dundee an economic and technological powerhouse in the 19th century. But our mission remains the same. “Today, our graduates, in the fields of science, technology, business and the arts are still contributing directly to the economy and to society at large, not just in Dundee but in communities across the world.” The University of Abertay Dundee formally came into being when Dundee Institute of Technology won the right to use the title of ‘university’ in 1994. In 1997 Abertay launched the world’s first Computer Games Technology degree, and in 2006 the UK’s first Ethical Hacking degree. www.abertay.ac.uk

“125 years ago we were founded as the Dundee Technical Institute, with the stated aim of giving access to higher education

Photo provided by Abertay University.

www.dundeeandanguschamber.co.uk 21 Member Helpline 01382 228545

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Freedom and Success at Kilgraston SUPPORTIVE, ACADEMICALLY successful and consistently in the top three Scottish Schools at Advanced Higher, Kilgraston is a truly thriving community. Two years ago, Kilgraston in Bridge of Earn, with a balanced mix of day girls and boarders, was UK Independent School of the Year. Judges praised it warmly as “an example to other schools”. From the 45 leafy acres set amongst rolling hills, to the swimming, hockey and tennis academies, Equestrian Centre (the only school in Scotland with on-campus facilities) and now the current £1m investment in a state-of-the-art Science Centre, Kilgraston facilities look and feel world-class. Principal Frank Thompson says: “At Kilgraston, small is beautiful. With small class sizes, we are totally committed to individualised care. We know every one of our 340 girls extremely well. Staff know who needs a little extra help or who needs to be stretched a little further.” Kilgraston is part of the Sacred Heart network of schools and welcomes girls of all faiths. It has four sections: Nursery (ages 2½ to 5), Preparatory (ages 5–13), Senior School (ages 13–16) and Sixth

Form. Boarders love being here, this is clearly evident thanks to a warm and supportive atmosphere - Kilgraston girls are not only taken care of, they learn to take care of themselves and each other. Dr Leonard Sax, a world-renowned expert on the benefits of single sex education, held a seminar at Kilgraston last month and told parents: “Girls at single-sex schools are more likely to study computer science, physics, engineering and technology and participate in competitive sports than are girls in co-educational schools. “That’s because at the co-educational school, the focus is on how you look. But at the single sex school, the focus is more on who you are. The best possible thing you can do to help your daughter is to get her into a girls’ school.” www.kilgraston.com To visit Kilgraston, please call (01738) 812257. Tours of the school are available year-round.

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First AGM Showcase Exhibition is a Big Success “I’ve been a member for just under a year

fter the previous two AGMs were held in Angus, the Invercarse Hotel Dundee was the venue for this year’s AGM on the evening of 29 August. More than 130 delegates registered to come along, including one non-member who has since joined. A big welcome to Margaret Cook of Farmgate Floral Design!

absolutely great,

The main business of the AGM is to approve the previous year’s financial accounts and to elect the office holders and any new directors. The Board’s recommendations were all approved by a show of hands, including the 2012 Accounts. The following appointments were ratified:

I’ve really enjoyed

President – Jim Pickett, Managing Director, Dellburn Transport

every event

Vice President – Alison Henderson, Managing Director, My Pinkie Promise

and think it’s

and been made welcome by all.”

Vice President – David Valentine, Managing Director, Valentine International Business Connections Director – Mark Munsie, Operations Director, Dundee Industrial Heritage

“DACC has a Director – Stuart Grant, General Manager, Apex Hotel

great reputation in my eyes.”

“The Chamber is

President Jim Pickett warmly welcomed the two new directors and new Chief Executive Sandra Burke, He then gave a spirited account of the previous year at the Chamber and the prospects for the local economy. He highlighted the need for businesses of all sizes to be ready to make the most of the opportunities the £1 billion regeneration of the Dundee Waterfront will undoubtedly bring throughout the region.

a proactive local group trying to help businesses and influence people.” 24

For the first time, we hosted a business to business showcase exhibition. The 28 stands were wrapped around the AGM seating area, giving them all maximum visibility and creating quite a buzz as everyone mingled and visited as many as possible. Many exhibitors and delegates enjoyed it so much that there were calls to organise such a showcase on a bigger scale to allow more businesses to participate. Watch this space! Thanks to our very generous AGM sponsor Roddy Donaldson of Maxwell Bruce. Find out more about his dynamic human resourcing company at www.maxwellbruce.com

Member Survey Results DUNDEE Reported at the AGM Chief Executive, Sandra Burke, presented the results of the recent member survey which was done as a tutor supervised undergraduate project by a student at the University of Dundee. The research was gathered by postal survey over a month in March/April 2013 and 101 members responded. This is a short summary. The AGM presentation is available in the member’s area of the website. Age profile: –––––––––––––––68% between 40-59 years Gender profile:––––––––––––––– 72% male, 28% female

Main Recommendations and Conclusions 1. Urgently replace the website (Our new website went live this summer) 2. Review communication channels – modernise and refine 3. There’s no consensus amongst members on the right mix of events 4. Do more in Angus

Communication Channels Website (used once a month or more)––––––––––– 53% Social Media (have used Facebook, Linkedin, Twitter)–––––––––– 25% Got any comments on how to improve the magazine––––––––––––––––––––––––– 24%

5. Improve keeping in touch methods, particularly for new members 6. The magazine needs a facelift (We look forward to feedback on the new look) 7. Not all members are clear on the value of the lobbying/ voice for business role of the Chamber but our many stakeholders expect it

Query response times (face to face, phone, email) satisfied––––––––––––– 96%

Progress/Looking Ahead Events The number of events is sufficient––––––––––––––– 74% Quality of speakers acceptable and subject matter relevant–––––––––––––––––––––––– 70%

Sandra went over some of the changes and improvements made already and those being considered with the Board of Directors: •

Make sure local businesses benefit from the increase in tourism

•

Lead the business element of the UK City of Culture 2017 bid

•

Facilitate informed debate on the business aspects of the Referendum

•

Encourage more member to member offers and discount incentives

•

Consider British Chamber of Commerce membership for added benefits

•

Keep improving the website and member database/ area

•

Develop Business Plan for 2014 onwards based on core values

•

Review the events offering based on what the Chamber does best – connecting members, entrepreneurs, leaders and opinion formers

•

Work creatively and effectively with more sponsors

Event content generally useful–––––––––––––––––– 70%

Event Timing Preferences Early morning–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 33% Lunchtime––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 25% Early evening–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 32%

Could benefits and services be improved? Yes––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 45% No–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 7% Don’t know––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 48% Would you recommend DACC to a friend or business connection?–––––––––––––––––– Yes – 76% Comments on Reputation –––––––––––––– 72% positive Does DACC fulfill its role? –––––––––––––––– Yes – 69% New member satisfaction with regular contact–––– 54%

Sandra closed by encouraging members to get actively involved in making the Chamber ever more relevant and successful.

www.dundeeandanguschamber.co.uk 25 Member Helpline 01382 228545

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Exporting can be a great opportunity to develop new customers and increase profits. However, trading internationally presents extra risks and challenges. There are so many things you must consider, including:

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• Will I need a licence to export my goods from the UK? • Will I need a licence to get the goods into my Buyers’ country?

• What are my obligations to HM Revenue & Customs? • Is there duty to be paid and who has to pay it? • What about VAT?

• How can I be sure my terms of sale are applicable in another country? • Are there any laws in the buyers’ country that I need to be aware of?

Paperwork • What paperwork do I need to prepare? • How and where do I submit it? • What happens if I get it wrong?

Insurance • Do I need insurance and if so, what should it cover? • Who has to pay for it?

If you are considering exporting for the first time, or even if you have been exporting for some time, then make sure you are familiar with the current rules and requirements. When it comes to exporting, education is the key to success.

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he Scottish Government announced that new buildings in Scotland are to be more energy efficient when changes to building standards come into effect in October 2015.

The Minister for Planning, Derek Mackay, set targets which aim to reduce emissions from new homes by around 21%. Businesses and non-domestic buildings (such as offices and shops) are tasked with achieving the far greater reduction in emissions of 43%. “These regulations will impact many businesses. Developers, owner occupiers and tenants will all have to take account of the new requirements for new build properties and perhaps more significantly, any cost or rental implications.” David Milne, Partner, MacRoberts LLP. The Scottish Government consulted on the proposals at the start of 2013 and, in view of the economic downturn, proposed that the implementation of the new targets be deferred until October 2015. The extra two-year transitional period may seem a long way off but businesses should start planning now, even when times remain uncertain and the economy only now showing the first signs of recovery. For more information about how these regulations may impact you and your business contact David Milne on 01382 339355 or email david.milne@macroberts.com.

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Local Businesses Shine at the Courier Business Awards 2013

he vibrant commercial life of east central Scotland was celebrated in style at the inaugural Courier Business Awards 2013.

Almost 500 guests attended a glittering ceremony at the Fairmont St Andrews Resort as The Courier shone a spotlight on the region’s best companies, and the visionaries that make them tick. Among the night’s big winners was Invergowrie’s Mylnefield Research Services, the company behind the strain of blackcurrant used in Ribena, which picked up the agriculture award; Newlife Fitness, which took away the young business prize; Scaramanga Trading, which scooped the retail title and Omega Diagnostics, which pipped the competition in the life sciences category. The award for the stand-out business leader of the year went to Hermann Twickler, the German-born entrepreneur behind Dundee’s rapidly expanding PressureFab Group, while the most

prestigious prize of the evening — The Courier’s Business of the Year 2013 — went to STAR-Dundee for its vital work in the space and aerospace industries. The company, based at Nethergate in Dundee, has carved out a unique role in the technology sphere by designing and producing the hardware used to control the digital central nervous system of spacecraft operated by major global players such as Nasa and the European and Japanese space agencies. Managing director Prof Steve Parkes, who marched on to the stage to the strains of David Bowie’s Starman, said he was “absolutely delighted” with the accolade. The awards, in association with chartered accountants Henderson Loggie, were launched in the spring and were designed to showcase the depth of the business base which calls Courier Country home. More than 100 entries flooded in from business large and small operating across a range of sectors including life sciences, tourism, agriculture, retail and digital media. Awards host Gyles Brandreth guided guests through short video presentations about each of the businesses across the 12 award categories. He said: “The huge fun of being up on stage is that you can see how excited people are by winning and it becomes quite an amazing experience.” Courier editor Richard Neville said all of the award recipients had proven themselves worthy winners. “The standard of entries for The Courier Business Awards was truly fantastic and really showed the strength in depth of the business world in east-central Scotland,” he said.

Forth Ports table. Front row (L-R) Sandra Burke, Martin Cressford, Angus Horticulture, Mrs Karen North, Mark Gaffney, Port of Dundee Back row (L-R) Ian Kerr, Forth Ports, Luke Aspinall, V&A Museum Dundee, Callum Wilson, Forth Energy

DUNDEE & ANGUS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Hermann Twickler, PressureFab Group

in business

culture and values

Award winners:

Tourism: Morton of Pitmilly Countryside Resort

Agriculture: Mylnefield Research Services Limited

• •

Digital: STAR-Dundee Limited

Retail:

Eleanor Yearwood

•

Who do you need to influence? What do you need to start doing? What do you need to stop doing? What else do you need to do?

Executive Coach

•

Four Steps to Achieving Success

3. Awareness

•

Hermann Twickler, PressureFab

ome people seem so much more successful than others, but often it’s just that they’ve taken the time to work through what they want. Setting aside just one hour to work through the following simple steps with a coach or mentor can help you become much clearer about your route to personal and business success.

Business of the Year:

1. What’s your goal?

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Scaramanga Trading Limited

Life Sciences: Omega Diagnostics Group Plc

Manufacturing: PressureFab Group

Social Impact: Tullis Russell

Growth: PressureFab Group

Young Business: Newlife Fitness Club Limited

Employer: Hillcrest Group of Companies

Business Leader:

Agree now when you will stop to take account of your actions and check progress. • • •

STAR-Dundee • Congratulations also to all other Chamber members nominated for awards, including Dundee Heritage Trust, Mackie’s at Taypack, GA Engineering, Enable Scotland: Darling’s Coffee Shop, Factory Skatepark, Graham Environmental Services Ltd and Stoneridge Electronics Ltd. The sponsors of the Courier Business Awards 2013 included Chamber members Bank of Scotland, Thorntons, blue2, McGill, Royal Bank of Scotland, Alliance Trust, Blackadders Solicitors and Henderson Loggie Chartered Accountants.

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Write it down. When you write it down it has more chance of happening. Get specific. Write down what you will be doing when you have achieved it. Ensure it’s stated in the positive. And it’s something that you can take ownership of (it doesn’t depend on anyone else). Imagine you have achieved it right now. Feel how it feels. Write that feeling down.

2. Action Written and provided by Graham Huband, Courier Business Editor. Printed with permission and copyright of Graham Huband and DC Thomson Ltd.

•

What are you prepared to do to succeed?

Have your outcomes started to change? What else do you need to do? Who do you need to speak with? Who do you need to arrange to meet?

4. People often get caught in the ‘Habit Trap’. How will you break free of this? • •

• •

How much flexibility are you demonstrating? How much are you willing to change? What might keep you stuck? Who might you need to help you? What questions do you need to ask yourself at this point? What else needs to change?

Eleanor Yearwood is Managing Director of Key Talent Partners and is a qualified Executive Coach and Trainer of Neuro Linguistic Programming. She has over 12 years’ experience of working with a wide range of businesses from familyowned to multi-nationals. She works with individuals and teams throughout Scotland and beyond helping them unlock their potential. Contact Eleanor on 01828 632 199 or 07881 954223 or look on her website to find more resources www.keytalent-partners.com

www.dundeeandanguschamber.co.uk 33 Member Helpline 01382 228545

PLATINUM PARTNER

DUNDEE economic development

Dundee Economic Round-up

undee’s economic regeneration is continuing with the physical transformation of the waterfront one of the most obvious signs.

But the city council is also working hard behind the scenes ensuring the message is getting to key decision makers about the new investment opportunities the waterfront and the wider city has to offer. Mike Galloway, Dundee City Council’s director of city development and Peter Noad of Scottish Enterprise have already presented the first of a series of road shows planned for major UK cities. It was standing room only at the London event earlier this month and a lot of effort is going in to try to ensure the Glasgow, Edinburgh and Aberdeen presentations in early December are equally as popular. The message that Dundee is open for business in the renewables sector is also being pushed hard. Dundee City Council, Forth Ports and local companies, as well as the University of Dundee’s new Offshore Renewables Institute will be attending the Renewable UK event in Birmingham later in the year to keep Dundee’s credentials at the front of key players’ minds.

The spotlight is also being shone on tourism as the city prepares itself for the influx of new visitors expected over the coming years. Latest estimates suggest between 270,000 to 350,000 new visitors per annum, a result of the V&A at Dundee. Working with partners including Dundee and Angus Chamber of Commerce and Dundee College, activity towards gaining World Host Destination status is well underway. This quality customer service award is aimed at helping Dundee improve the visitor experience. The city’s newly-formed Tourism Forum met recently and this group will be vital in providing direction as this sector develops and grows. The meeting was well attended and work has already started on an action plan of activities to ensure Dundee is a first class destination for visitors. If you work in this sector it is worth noting in your diary that on March 20, Dundee and Angus councils in partnership with Dundee and Angus Chamber of Commerce and Visit Scotland will host a tourism conference at the city’s newest venue and hotel – Malmaison, which opens in early December. Some of you may have noticed large film crews out and about around the city last month. This was as a direct result of the work of TayScreen, the team that attracts film and TV production to locate, produce and develop in this area. Ever-popular TV series Silent Witness spent 19 days with a crew of approx. 60 filming across Angus and Dundee with an expected economic impact of £124,120.

www.dundeewaterfront.com www.tayscreen.com www.dundeerenewables.com

Silent Witness TV crew filming in Dundee

DUNDEE & ANGUS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

consTITUTIonaL debaTe

Scotland’s Future cuRRencY iMPlications

n a Scottish Chambers of Commerce survey conducted in June 2013, currency was identified by 503 respondents (62.3%) as an important factor for their business. They also said they wanted more information to help them understand the current policy direction promoted by the respective campaigns. Here are the views of the two main campaigns on this important aspect of the constitutional debate.

cuRRencY is iMPoRtant Currency policy impacts on imports and exports through exchange rates. It also impacts on government borrowing and investment; and on monetary policy.

the oPtions With a Yes Vote

the oPtions With a ‘no’ Vote

Scotland enters into a currency union with the rest of the UK

Sterling continues to be used

Scotland continues to use sterling without a formal agreement with the rest of the UK

The UK joins the single European currency

Scotland sets up its own currency

Scotland joins the single European currency

the PolicY DiRection

Option 1 is favoured by the Scottish Government. The Yes Scotland campaign does not appear to have a consistent favoured option. This needs more clarity.

There doesn’t appear to be a will from the UK Government or Better Together Campaign to adopt the Euro.

likelY enD gaMe Position?

Scotland enters into a currency Union with the rest of the UK.

Sterling continues to be used.

soMe fuRtheR thoughts anD infoRMation The Scottish Government has set up a Fiscal Working Group tasked with overseeing the design of a fiscal framework for an independent Scotland. It is as a result of their work that the Scottish Government has come to their favoured position. The UK Government, however, has stated that Scotland entering into a currency union with the rest of the UK would be subject to negotiations, and would expose both Scotland and the UK to significant macroeconomic risks. Better Together is of the view that an independent Scotland, if it assumes EU membership,

would be required to join the Euro. On 2 August 2013, Professor Gavin McCrone suggested that the preferred policy option of requesting a currency union with the remainder of the UK would mean Scotland having little control over its tax and spend policies. Thanks to Rachel Elliot and James Bream of Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce for this summary and analysis. www.agcc.co.uk, rachel.elliot@agcc.co.uk

www.dundeeandanguschamber.co.uk 35 Member Helpline 01382 228545

Call Us Today

0772 340 2732

Searching for roofing and roof repair specialists in central scotland? Look no further than Rooftec. We specialise in all aspects of roofing.

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■ Business Advice from Business Lawyers ■ Commercial Property Advice from Commercial Property Lawyers ■ Employment Advice from Employment Lawyers

Visit our Web Site at www.millerhendrysolicitors.co.uk Perth 10 Blackfriars Street PH1 5NS Tel: 01738 637311

Crieff 14 Comrie Street, PH7 4AZ Tel: 01764 655151

Dundee 13 Ward Road, DD1 1LU Tel: 01382 200000

skills and training

Left, Site Foreman, James Lamb, with nine apprentices and right Gary Mitchelson, Managing Director.

Apprentices Key to Rigmar Fabrication’s Future

s part of a long-term growth strategy, Rigmar Fabrication – a leading provider of fabrication services to the Subsea and Drilling industry – has taken on nine fabrication and welding apprentices at its Dundee facility.

Funded by Dundee College, the modern apprenticeships will last between 2-5 years and combine on-the-job training as well as off-the-job training at the college. Rigmar Fabrication looks to further support the modern apprenticeship scheme over the coming years and, following a series of recent contract wins, looks to extend its team from 82 to 100 by early next year. Jade Anderson, Lee Couper, Darren Coyle, Gary Durie, David McIntosh, Connor Mclean, Jake Pullar, Sam Saunders and Chris Wallace – all aged 16 to 24 – were offered positions following a rigorous selection process. Congratulations to them all and to Gary and Rigmar Fabrication for helping them towards a brighter and more prosperous future. www.rigmar.co.uk

This investment in training young people further demonstrates the company’s continued commitment to establish the Port of Dundee as the premier location for jack-up rig upgrades and subsea activity. Since being acquired by Rigmar Services in 2012, over £750,000 has been invested into the Dundee site on five fabrication sheds as well as a new office block, taking its size from 1,061m2 to an impressive 13,268m2. Rigmar was initially looking for four apprentices and the company was overwhelmed when it received over 270 applications.

Apprentice Jade Anderson

Speaking of the recruitment challenges and the importance of apprenticeships, Gary Mitchelson, Managing Director said: “The industry needs apprentices. The lack of investment in engineering training in recent years has resulted in an ever-apparent gap in skills. We are dealing with a shrinking labour pool with some of the best in the industry reaching retirement age and no sight of replacements. I have always been fully supportive of the modern apprenticeships and see them having a key role in safe-guarding the future of our industry and the local economy.” Photos provided by Rigmar Fabrication

www.dundeeandanguschamber.co.uk 37 Member Helpline 01382 228545

business directory

new members 4G Scotland

food using fresh ingredients. They provide catering for all events and occasions including corporate and contract catering, private parties, sit down hot meals and much more. Arnolds Catering can serve all over Dundee, Fife, Angus and Tayside. www.arnolds-catering.co.uk Tel: 01382 541016

4G Scotland, set up by Colin Loveday, is dedicated to delivering superfast mobile communications, transparent pricing, unique employee benefits and first class customer service for business. 4G Scotland specialises in Corporate and SME mobile solutions with exclusive offers for Chamber members plus Tax Free Employee Benefits for Smartphones and Tablets. www.4gscotland.com Tel: 07500 900700

Albion Financial Solutions

With more than 15 years’ experience, Albion Financial Solutions have built up an excellent reputation by providing customers with expert advice and solutions. They know how stressful it can be to get your finances into order, and offer a wide variety of services including pensions, investments, mortgages and insurance. No matter what you need financial services for, Albion’s experienced and friendly advisers are more than happy to help. www.albionfinancial-solutions.co.uk Tel: 01382 774433

Arc Visual Communications

Founded by Jackie Malcolm, Arc Visual Communications is a design consultancy based in Dundee Scotland whose primary focus is to produce creative, sustainable, innovative and exciting design solutions for its clients both locally, nationally and internationally. Their main goal is to provide high quality, creative solutions that reflect the requirements of today’s marketplace, for effective communication media. www.arcvisual.com Tel: 01382 580671

Arnolds Catering

Arnolds Catering, formed five years ago by Steffie Arnold, is a local family run company based in Dundee. They specialise in high quality homemade

DUNDEE & ANGUS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Begbies Traynor

BusinessLab Group For over 10 years BusinessLab has been helping organisations, large and small - public and private - in the areas of change management, learning and development, market analysis and entry, facilitation and collaboration. BusinessLab offers high value consultancy supported by their own bespoke tools, designed to assist organisational change, employee engagement, and to provide management with organisational insights from the bottom up. www.businesslab.co.uk Tel: 01224 643823

Begbies Traynor is the UK’s largest and fastestgrowing independent practice of Corporate Rescue and Recovery specialists. Partner Jenn Stewart and her colleagues provide their services via a nationwide office network, with clients ranging from small businesses and SMEs to family-run companies and major multinationals. Whatever the size of the assignment, their aim is to rescue businesses and assist individuals wherever possible – and the sooner they’re contacted by those in trouble, the more they can do to help. www.begbies-traynor.com Tel: 01382 313600

Bethany Christian Trust

Cairnstone Limited

Cairnstone’s founder, Neil Jones, has many years’ experience as a freelance corporate affairs advisor, journalist, consultant and trainer, providing services as diverse as specialist crisis communications support to the oil industry, training in reputation management strategy, crisis communications, writing skills and media handling through straightforward freelance journalism for technology-based publications. www.cairnstone.co.uk Tel: 07713 880678

Chi-Squared Innovations Bethany Christian Trust supports 4000 homeless and vulnerable people every year in Scotland to find, equip and maintain a home within their local community. As well as meeting housing needs, they provide support to individuals and families to help them tackle long-term homelessness problems including addictions, debt, lack of furniture, unemployment and social isolation. www.bethanychristiantrust.com Tel: 07436 151207

Brightside Planning

Chi-Squared Innovations, founded by Dr Lee Baker, specialises in automating analytical and statistical processes, creating products, applications and services that typically reduce the time taken to go ‘from data to story’ from months to minutes. Do you have data, but don’t know how to analyse it? Or perhaps your analyses are taking too long? If you have troubles with data, get in touch – ChiSquared Innovations may have the solution. www.chi2innovations.com Tel: 01382 738488

DidiCareS Brightside Planning is a Dundee-based organisation focusing on the key areas of event planning and business support. Director Karran Bonner is passionate about creating truly unique events through innovative support and planning from start to finish. Their aim is to support you to such a high standard that all your family, friends, colleagues and guests remember the event for years to come. www.brightsideplanning.co.uk Tel: 07985 175457

DidiCareS is about informing, designing and producing aids to nurture the senses of babies, children and adults through the sense of touch. Founded by Dr. Elvidina Nabuco Adamson-Macedo PhD, her passion is to promote ‘right touch from the start’. Join her on her continuing search for simple and effective innovative ways to make a

business directory

new members difference to the lives of babies born pre-term and full-term, their parents and carers. www.didicares.com Tel: 07715 071017

Dovetail Enterprises

and unique crafts and gifts by established and emerging artists from Scotland and worldwide. If you want to find a wonderful piece of art for your home, an unusual souvenir of Broughty Ferry, or an interesting gift for men or women be sure to visit Eduardo Alessandro Studios www.eastudios.com Tel: 01382 737011

Exchange Communications Dovetail Enterprises has a long history of manufacturing and installing high-quality furniture products for contract and retail clients across the UK and Europe. Today, with General Manager Charles Marr, they supply standard items from their catalogues, or if appropriate, work closely with customers, architects and designers to produce traditional and contemporary high-quality bespoke furniture in an a variety of veneers, inlays and hardwood timbers. www.dovetailenterprises.co.uk Tel: 01382 810099

Exchange Communications specialise in the market-leading Avaya product portfolio delivering solutions for small, medium and enterprise-sized businesses. They can build a tailored solution for your telecommunications needs with their accredited service and years of experience, and can give you reassurance and advantage of a resilient, cost-effective flexible communications system.

Dundee Carpet Cleaning

www.exchangecommunications.co.uk Tel: 0800 0087600

Dundee Carpet Cleaning was formed in 2013 by local businessman, Ainslie Dobson. With previous experience in the cleaning sector, Ainslie decided to invest in a carpet cleaning business. Through hard work, professionalism and a friendly service, Ainslie is looking to build Dundee Carpet Cleaning into a name which everyone knows and associates with high regard. www.dundeecarpetcleaning.co.uk Tel: 07581 202639

ECP Soda Blasting Services

ECP Soda Blasting Services is a family run business, managed by Declan Mackay and based in the centre of Dundee, specialising in soda blasting, an extremely versatile cleaning and coatings removal system. ECP have a fully mobile soda blast unit, so most jobs can be carried out on almost any site. However if the customer finds this unsuitable, they do have capability for blasting in-hous. www.ecpsodablasting.co.uk Tel: 07823 447658

Eduardo Alessandro Studios

Widely regarded as one of Scotland’s most interesting galleries and gift shops, and established for over 35 years, Eduardo Alessandro Studios showcase the best paintings, ceramics, jewellery

Farmgate Floral Design

Farmgate Floral Design, by Margaret Cook, is an independent florist covering the Dundee, Angus, Perth and Fife areas. They specialise in creating stylish and beautiful flower designs, both contemporary and traditional. Margaret established Farmgate Floral Design in 2009 and can plan, produce and deliver quality bespoke flower arrangements for weddings, conferences, corporate events, private homes, church and hotel functions. www.farmgatefloraldesign.co.uk Tel: 01382 380242

Graham Hood Photography

Graham Hood, based in Perth, has established himself as an event and wedding photographer covering Dundee, Perthshire and Angus. With a wide range of clients and experience in commercial and private commissions including conferences, functions, presentations, seminars, publications, golf, landscape and events, every picture supplied is granted joint copyright with no further costs. www.grahamhoodphotography.com Tel: 01738 627772

Growth Unlimited

Growth Unlimited, run by director Trish Anderson, is an exciting and intuitive company based in the North East of Scotland. They specialise in all your HR and Training needs, and are passionate about working in partnership with your business to maximise growth potential. Founded by Trish Anderson, she is passionate about developing people to ensure they deliver their full potential for themselves and for their business. www.growthunlimited.co.uk Tel: 01241 876639

Help For Kids

Help For Kids aims to make the lives of sick and disadvantaged children in Dundee better, safer and happier. Help For Kids is the product of a partnership between two local businesses who are embedded in the Dundee community: Overgate and Wave 102 wanted to give something back to the community who support them. Angie Foreman, Fundraising Manager, pictured. www.helpforkids.org.uk Tel: 01382 314236

Hydroscot Services

Hydroscot Services, founded by Scott Gaffney, specialises in the delivery of Energy and Utility management projects with a particular emphasis on commercial Biomass solutions. The ethos of the company is to deliver future proof efficiencies in terms of cost and energy savings to each company. Successful projects have been delivered across the region delivering cost and carbon savings of circa £250k and 800 Tonnes respectively. www.hydroscot-services.co.uk Tel: 07794 604865

Journeycall Journeycall specialises in the provision of unique, independent and specialist contact centre and fulfilment services to the smartcard and public transport industries within the UK. From management systems development, provision of telesales or customer support to delivery of your product to your customers, they are committed to constantly meeting and exceeding clients’ needs and expectations of service and price. www.journeycall.com Tel: 01561 376070

www.dundeeandanguschamber.co.uk 39 Member Helpline 01382 228545

business directory

new members Key Talent Partners

private letting or residential property, or want to plan for the future, they provide expert advice and support. Property Manager Meg Hanlin pictured.

Natural Balance Therapy Centre

www.lindsays.co.uk Tel: 01382 224112

MacRoberts LLP Eleanor Yearwood, MD at Key Talent Partners, has over 12 years’ experience as an Executive Coach and Team Facilitator working with local and global organisations. She uses a ‘Strengths focused’ approach when working with clients to enable them to get the very best out of themselves and their people. www.keytalent-partners.com Tel: 01828 632199

Kinnettles Castle

MacRoberts LLP, one of the largest independently owned law firms in Scotland, was founded over 150 years ago by the MacRobert family, and is a leading Scottish commercial law firm with full service offices in Dundee, Edinburgh and Glasgow with a client base that reaches across Scotland and beyond. Partner David Milne pictured. www.macroberts.com Tel: 01382 339340

Kinnettles Castle, run by General Manager Jacqueline Soutar, is an award-winning boutique castle set in the heart of the Angus countryside in the village of Kinnettles, close to Forfar and Dundee. The Castle greets you with its impressive hallway, grand fireplaces and ornate plasterwork, and the chic and contemporary furniture creates an environment where you can truly relax and unwind. Kinnettles Castle offers luxury accommodation and plenty of activities, including woodland walks, clay pigeon shooting, horse riding and fly fishing. www.kinnettlescastle.com Tel: 01307 820354

Legends Promotional Products

Founded by Nick Oswald and based in Perth, Legends Promotional Products are suppliers of a wide range of promotional products, helping businesses and organisations promote and market themselves. Sport and Events specialists, Legends brand & deliver.

Lindsays are an award-winning law firm offering a full range of legal services for individuals, families and businesses. Whether you need help on a specific issue, such as family law, employment,

DUNDEE & ANGUS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.naturalbalancetherapycentre.co.uk Tel: 01382 322931

Rod Beaumont Coaching

Malmaison

The 13th hotel in the Malmaison group will be making waves on the waterfront from December 2013. Over the blueprint of the old Tay Hotel, Malmaison Dundee is delighted to introduce its brand new bar and brasserie, luxurious bedrooms and huge, flexible meeting and events space with the latest technology. Beautiful private dining rooms, perfect for intimate dinners or gala events and options for cocktail masterclasses, wine and whisky tastings make Malmaison Dundee the perfect place to meet, present and enjoy food and beverage that’s second to none. General Manager Claire Livingston pictured. www.malmaison.com/locations/dundee Tel: 01382 339316

Mindspace Market Research

Inspirational, motivational, passionate and professional international coaching and mentoring. Rod Beaumont empowers people to explore, identify and pursue their interests, and to develop skills for achieving their goals. For more than 25 years, Rod has been an internationally sought-after education and management consultant and keynote speaker. His practical, real-world business experience and career has been in educational leadership, relocation consulting and executive coaching. www.rodbeau.co.uk Tel: 07722 036949

SafeHouse Habitats Headquartered in Dundee, SafeHouse Habitat manage staff and operations all over the world. The SafeHouse Habitat is a recognised engineering control that manages and reduces the risks associated with hot work and sources of ignition in a hazardous area. Many clients use the SafeHouse Habitat as an engineering control for risk mitigation in risk assessment. www.safehouseltd.com Tel: 01382 814122

www.legend-s.co.uk Tel: 01738 701234

Lindsays

Natural Balance Therapy Centre offers complementary therapies to help individuals. Each treatment is worked and based around the individual, with therapists including Philip Martin, reflexologist and Reiki practitioner. Within the centre there is a shop selling crystals, jewellery, Buddhas, self-help books, CDs, soaps, candles and gifts etc. There is also a main treatment room and an additional room that is used for treatments, workshops, courses and group events.

A Fife-based market research consultancy established in 1992, Mindspace Market Research conducts surveys, focus groups, telephone interviews and online research for private and public sector organisations across all product sectors. Their role is to help businesses understand what their customers think – and why – so they can make informed decisions about the direction and development of their product or service. www.q-mindspace.co.uk Tel: 01337 810494

Sandvik Heating Technology UK Ltd Sandvik is a global industrial group with advanced products and world-leading positions in selected areas. In 2012 the Group had about 49,000 employees and representation in 130 countries, with annual sales of about 99 billion Swedish Krona. Sandvik’s operations are based on unique expertise in materials technology and extensive insight into customer processes. www.sandvik.com Tel: 01738 493300

business directory

new members Sign Industries Ltd

Founded by Marjory and Gordon Norrie, Sign Industries Ltd is a leading UK engraving and sign-making specialist that takes great care in designing and creating high quality signage. Their clients range from local government, oil companies and engineering firms to the sign trade and the general public. They take great pride in manufacturing their products in-house, ensuring they meet the highest quality standard. www.signindustries.com Tel: 01241 828694

Take My Word

Take My Word is owned by Irene K. Duncan, former Head of Publishing at DC Thomson & Co. Ltd. Her company focuses on editing, communications and PR. Irene prides herself in being organised, creative and paying attention to detail. She is well known and has an excellent reputation for producing work of the highest standard within the given deadline. Email: irenekduncan@gmail.com Tel: 01382 738870 or 07801 659578

The Engaged Workplace Consultancy

Founded by Gary Bisset and Ronnie Clarkson, The Engaged Workplace Consultancy is a specialist in industrial and employee relations, transformation programmes and workplace engagement. Its engagement techniques deliver improvements in attraction, retention, attendance, workplace culture and overall organisational performance that results in significant financial benefit to businesses. www.engagedworkplace.co.uk Tel: 0800 2289301

Verus Wealth Chartered Financial Planners

a consultative, personal wealth management and financial planning â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;boutiqueâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; service. Their purpose is to make a real difference to the lives of clients by taking time to understand their values and goals so they can face their financial future with increased confidence and security.

Z.D Jewellery

www.veruswealth.co.uk Tel: 01382 223455

Vivomotion

Founded by Dr Mhairi Towler, Vivomotion is a science animation production company, based in Dundee, which offers a high quality bespoke service of 2D and 3D animated graphics for visual communication of science. The service can be used by academics, biotech/ pharmaceutical/medical device companies, science centres and schools. In addition, they offer training workshops on the visual presentation of science.

Z.D Jewellery was created in 2009 by design graduate Zoe Duthie. The brand specialises in handmade precious metal jewellery collections as well as privately-commissioned designs. Zoe aims to be an all-round designer who can cater to any requirement with a highly recognisable style which has grabbed the attention of influential publications including Vogue magazine. www.zoeduthie.com Tel: 07538 153519

Zostera

www.vivomotion.co.uk Tel: 01382 381245

Wyllie Recycling

Wyllie Recycling is a unique and diverse waste management company offering a full range of services dedicated to Real Recycling with a personal touch. Operating across Tayside, Central and Northern Scotland, providing collection, treatment, recycling and disposal services. They provide the facilities and advice to reduce your disposal costs and improve your environmental footprint by recovering, recycling and reusing your waste resources.

Zostera is a Learning and Development consultancy which specialises in management and team development. We support businesses in each stage of the training cycle from training needs analysis to the implementation and evaluation of the identified solutions. We provide a wide range of soft skills training (e.g. effective communication, presentation skills, interviewing skills and giving feedback) which can be tailored and run within your organisation. www.zostera.co Tel: 0845 5191295

www.wyllierecycling.co.uk Tel: 01738 634276

Your Scotland Tours

Your Business Here Founded by Frank Alexander, Your Scotland Tours is an Angus-based, multi-lingual company running private tours for small groups of up to six people, allowing customers to relax and enjoy the very best the east of Scotland has to offer. Tours range from pre-designed to fully personalised. Each one draws on a passion for Scotland and attention to detail that guarantees a unique experience for tourists and professionals alike. www.yourscotlandtours.co.uk Tel: 07521 015020

See page 45 for more details of how being a Chamber member brings many benefits, then contact Dave Nicholson on 01382 228545 or email davidnicholson@ dundeeandanguschamber.co.uk to discuss membership for your business.

Through partners Jonathan Gibson and Paul Lothian, multiple award-winning Verus Wealth Chartered Financial Planners deliver

www.dundeeandanguschamber.co.uk 41 Member Helpline 01382 228545

S le

guest business writer

Simon Bain

Business Correspondent at The Herald

Hermann Twickler remembers standing at a cash machine in Dundee, trying to decide whether he had enough funds to draw out £100.

he German-born businessman had turned his back on becoming a blue-chip chief executive after heading up seriously large companies in Canada and the UK, and instead ploughed his life savings into starting a steel fabrication workshop in Forfar. The start-up in 2009 consumed his life savings, mortgage, car and even personal credit. Four years on – on a site 10 times bigger on Dundee Waterfront – PressureFab is now Scotland’s biggest supplier and only manufacturer of offshore containerised equipment and employs 100 skilled workers. Its creator was named Scotland’s emerging entrepreneur of the year by the Entrepreneurial Exchange. “Nobody in my family had ever been self-employed, but I always wanted my own business,” says Mr Twickler, who grew up in north-west Germany and became a shipbuilding apprentice then a master craftsman. An internship at Boeing in Seattle led to senior roles in companies across North America and a reputation as a manufacturing turnaround specialist. “I was mainly brought into under-performing factories and was increasing productivity by up to 250%. Steel fabrication is what I have done all my life – manufacturing and management.”

of big companies were here and had facilities here. I found there is a huge skill base and university support.” “In Scotland there is no other manufacturer who can build containerised equipment from A to Z in-house, it doesn’t exist. I also believe British manufacturing businesses are outsourcing far too much. Businesses need to invest in their people, their facilities and their equipment in order to be competitive. This is a classic example of short-term vision.” PressureFab’s core container product is competing successfully with lower-specification equipment that uses imported components assembled in the UK. Its breakthrough contract came when, within 18 months of start-up, it won an order for BP pipe connectors requiring submersion to a depth of 400 metres. Hermann’s ambitious plans to grow the business in the renewables sector show he is shaping up to become one of Scotland’s most valuable imports. This is an extract from an interview that first appeared in The Herald. Printed with the permission and copyright of Simon Bain and The Herald Scotland.

He quit his job as operations director of VT in Portsmouth in 2008 and founded PressureFab. His start-up budget of £150,000 was more than trebled until he nearly ran out of cash. “I thought suppliers would supply and banks would lend you money if you had orders for customers ... but because of the financial crisis a lot of people were very nervous.” He also believes necessity is the spur to survival. “You will find every entrepreneur has to reach the point where he is out of money – where he has to make the business pay.” PressureFab landed in Dundee because of its manufacturing heritage and skills base, as well as the price of real estate. “A lot

DUNDEE & ANGUS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Hermann Twickler, PressureFab Group and Jim Pickett, President of Dundee and Angus Chamber of Commerce at Hermann’s Leadership Master Class, October 2013.

Str Eq Co Ne

Space to be themselves, learning together.

Strong academic results Equestrian and sporting academies Continued investment New Science Centre opens in August

Kilgraston, Bridge of Earn, Perth PH2 9BQ Telephone: 01738 812257. Fax: 01738 813410 email: headoffice@kilgraston.com www.kilgraston.com Kilgraston School Trust is a charity. Scottish Charity Number SC029664

Service • Reliability • Quality • Integrity One of Europe’s foremost non-destructive testing organisations. Inspection Ecosse Limited offer specialised Non Destructive Testing including Radiographic, Ultrasonic, Dye Penetrant and Magnetic Particle Inspections, with fully qualified technicians. We operate in all industries including: • Oil Refining • Petrochemicals • Engineering • Shipping • Power Supply • Food and Brewing • Non Destructive Testing A vital role in a variety of industrial, commercial and service applications. Inspection Ecosse Ltd., Unit 1D, Laurieston Industrial Estate, Old Redding Road, Falkirk FK2 9JU www.inspectionecosse.com

Tel: 01324 627 772

t. 1 9 6 4

ROXBURGH group

the business of trust

independent

insurance

propert y

financial advisers

brokers

sales & letting

We are one of Scotland’s leading independent financial service companies founded in 1964. We’ve built our business on trust developing sound, long-term relationships with our clients and we would be delighted to discuss how we could help you. Visit us at www.roxburgh-group.co.uk Glasgow 0141 952 0371

Troon 01292 314313

Stewarton 01560-485333

Roxburgh Group is the trading name of J C Roxburgh (Financial Services) Ltd , J C Roxburgh (Insurance Brokers) Ltd and J C Roxburgh(Properties) Ltd and are registered in Scotland under numbers 417019, 417217 and 073801 respectively. Registered Office 151 Glasgow Road Clydebank Glasgow Scotland G81 1LQ. Both J C Roxburgh (Financial Services) Ltd and J C Roxburgh (Insurance Brokers) Ltd are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

membership benefits

MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS

s the leading business membership organisation in Dundee and Angus, and part of the worldwide long-established Chamber of Commerce brand, we help local businesses to connect, communicate and develop for business benefit. We provide a strong voice for business to opinion formers, run a lively annual programme of topical events and help promote Dundee and Angus as a world-class destination. We are memberled, with a varied membership base that spans the private, public and third sectors. Being a member brings many benefits. Read about the opportunities below in Chamber services.

CHAMBER SERVICES Our online Dundee and Angus Business Directory is a great guide to the wide range of suppliers and services operating in this thriving region. Everyone can look at the listings and access individual member company websites from this directory, but further information and a downloadable digital version of the whole Business Directory is available only to Chamber members.

CHAMBER WESTFIELD HEALTH PLAN This plan from Westfield Health is unique to Chamber members and helps to reduce absenteeism and improve staff recruitment and retention.

BUSINESS MENTORING A free service which enables Chamber members to learn through the experience of others using our free Business Mentoring service.

SCOTTISH CHAMBERS FOREIGN EXCHANGE Scottish Chambers FX has direct access to wholesale currency markets and is able to pass on the resultant savings to members. SCFX charges no fees for transactions in excess of £5K and doesn’t charge commission.

JUMPSTART AT THE CHAMBERS Jumpstart offer Chamber members a helping hand in securing R&D tax credits. From April 2012 companies have been able to deduct up to 225% of qualifying expenditure when calculating their profit for tax purposes.

Take advantage of special offers made by Chamber members or give them a special deal of your own.

MEETING ROOM Our conference room offers excellent facilities and flexible layouts. It’s ideal for a wide variety of uses such as receptions, product launches, press conferences, training, team workshops, seminars, job interviews and meetings.

CHAMBER EVENTS Regular lunch and early evening events, annual golf day and networking breakfasts, plus many more events including procurement and training.

REPRESENTATION The Chamber is represented on a variety of organisations and committees. It has regular meetings with Council, local MPs, MSPs and MEPs. The Chamber is in a stronger negotiating position than individual members and uses its bargaining power for the benefit of members. Dundee and Angus Chamber of Commerce is affiliated to the Scottish Chambers of Commerce and their Council ensures that Dundee and Angus issues get heard at a national level.

BUSINESS TO BUSINESS PUBLICITY

CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP JOINING FEES EMPLOYEES

We work with Aberdeen and Grampian Chamber of Commerce to offer help with export documentation, training and trade visits. These services are available to all local businesses but Chamber members enjoy 50% discount on cost of stamping and validating their export documents.

MEMBER TO MEMBER DISCOUNTS

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

BAND

INTERNATIONAL TRADE

ANNUAL FEE EXCLUDING VAT

ANNUAL FEE INCLUDING VAT

£140.00

£168.00

2-5

£200.00

£240.00

6-15

£260.00

£312.00

16-30

£335.00

£402.00

31-50

£395.00

£474.00

51-100

£515.00

£618.00

101-250

£645.00

£774.00

251-500

£805.00

£966.00

501-1000

£1,040.00

£1,248.00

1000+

£1,560.00

£1,872.00

All new members get an entry in our business magazine and can promote their services and achievements through our communication channels.

Contact our Membership Manager Dave Nicholson on 01382 228545 or email davidnicholson@dundeeandanguschamber.co.uk for further details on any of the above. Alternatively, refer to the website www.dundeeandanguschamber.co.uk

www.dundeeandanguschamber.co.uk 45 Member Helpline 01382 228545

chamber commercIaL

opportunities

MEETING ROOM

The meeting room is equipped with state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment including: • Free Wi-Fi • 50” Panasonic plasma screen • DVD/VHS combi player • PC with Microsoft Office standard software

• Support of the friendly and helpful Chamber team • Food and refreshments available to order • Reception and registration service optional

• A rail-track system with white-boards and a flip-chart

Need a meeting space for an event, interviews or a short meeting? City Quay is at the heart of Dundee’s Waterfront, where our conference room offers excellent facilities and flexible layouts making it a perfect venue for receptions, product launches, press conferences, training, team workshops, seminars, job interviews and meetings. “The one hour’s free use of the Chamber’s meeting room is one of the best perks of my membership. It is a firstclass venue and perfect for my business meetings, team meetings and job interviews.”

DAY/TIME

DURATION

COST

Mon - Fri to 5pm

Up to 1 hour

FREE and available to Members Only

Half day

£50 + VAT £60 + VAT (non-members)

Full day (9-5)

£80 + VAT, £100 + VAT (non-members)

Evenings, Sat, Sun

Min 3 hours

£25 per hour + VAT (will normally include two break-out areas)

Contact our Membership Services Coordinator Donna Bell on 01382 228545 or email donnabell@dundeeandanguschamber.co.uk for further details on any of the above. Alternatively, refer to the website www.dundeeandanguschamber.co.uk

EVENTS DACC Christmas Social Wednesday 12 December 2013 5-7pm All Chamber members are cordially invited to our Members Christmas Party at our offices at 27 City Quay, Camperdown Street. Come along and network with members old and new, and meet Chamber staff and Directors.

Meet the Minister: Shona Robison, Minister for the Commonwealth Games Tuesday 21 January 2014 8-10am We are pleased to announce a breakfast meeting featuring Shona Robison, Minister for Commonwealth Games and Sport, at Carnoustie Golf Hotel, in association with Women Ahead.

DUNDEE & ANGUS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Ensure your business is ready to take advantage of the opportunities the Commonwealth Games will bring to the area.

Skills Development Scotland Seminars January – March 2014 We are proud to announce a series of three seminars sponsored by Skills Development Scotland, running in January, February and March 2014. The Seminars will cover modern apprenticeships, support for businesses, youth employment and how Skills Development Scotland helped local successful businesses.

Book your place online at www.dundeeandanguschamber.co.uk or contact the Events and Marketing Coordinator Mike Stirling on 01382 228545 or email mikestirling@dundeeandanguschamber.co.uk

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A reputation built on trust. Our intuitive understanding of our clientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; needs has allowed us Contact Numbers

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Dundee

01382 229222

Edinburgh

0131 222 8000

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01241 876620

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01307 461234

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