Perthshire in commerce issue 21 issuu

INcommerce THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Tasty starter for unique industrial park Sports plans make a splash The business of volunteering City Centre Manager’s review of the year

ISSUE 21 • SPRING 2014

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PRESIDENT’S WELCOME

Contents

EDITOR’S INTRODUCTION

Chamber News........................ 4-6 Members’ News..................... 8-15 Be part of it.......................... 16-17 A Taste of the future for Perthshire food and drink..... 18-19 Chamber Sponsors............... 20-21 Tribunal fees............................. 22 New logo + Prolessional Photography=More Business... 24

Stephen Leckie

A

s we move rapidly through 2014 – Year of Homecoming – it’s important that we are aware of, and taking advantage of, all the opportunities available to promote our businesses.

“Year of Homecoming”, for example, is a marketing tool provided by VisitScotland around which businesses can promote and theme their own activities. Last year was “Year of Natural Scotland” and next year will be “Year of Food and Drink.”

In the same vein as we should all be using these opportunities to drive businesses, the same goes for events happening in the area.

World-class events including the Ryder Cup and the Commonwealth Games all provide a buzz and offer the chance to showcase our unique and beautiful area. There are also hundreds of smaller events happening all over Perthshire (and Scotland) and they can increase the footfall to our businesses and areas to an amazing degree. They all offer opportunities for us to attract additional business by proactively finding out what’s on and being innovative and flexible in our approach to going and getting that business and securing maximum benefit on the back of these events and initiatives.

March saw another very successful Scottish Tourism Week which was full of interesting events. Tourism is recognised as being a major growth area of the Scottish economy and is attracting more publicity than ever before. Calls from the sector include serving the digital tourist, VAT reduction and a reduction in air passenger duty.

The Perthshire Chamber of Commerce is fortunate in having a Board of Directors that purposely represent many sectors and geographical locations and champion each.

Stephen Leckie President Perthshire Chamber of Commerce

Vicki Unite

W

elcome to the 21st edition of our InCommerce magazine.

We’re delighted to have had this valuable communication tool as part of our stable of Chamber benefits for five years now.

There are lots of “positives” about this magazine, but one of the main plus points is the fact that it reaches so many people. Two and a half thousand of these magazines are produced and sent all over Perthshire (to member and non-member businesses) including car showrooms, waiting rooms, hotel foyers and bedrooms and serviced office accommodation. With four magazines being produced per year each magazine has a minimum shelf life (although they are always relevant) of three months meaning that your news can be exposed to a much greater audience in addition to your fellow members.

The quality of this publication is never compromised and we are extremely grateful for the contributions of many of our members and thoroughly appreciate the support of those who take adverts. This is a unique platform - proven to work – and a terrific marketing tool for members to use.

Please also take the time to remind yourself of the other benefits (detailed on page 46) which make up your Chamber membership.

Many of these business benefits are part of your annual subscription (meaning no additional cost) so please do take full advantage and make the most of your membership.

Vicki Unite Editor of InCommerce and Chief Executive of Perthshire Chamber of Commerce

Alternatives to tribunal............. 28 New Member Profiles........... 32-34 Business Support.................. 36-37 Top tips for new businesses...... 39 Raise a glass to Homecoming Scotland......... 40-41 Dram goog festivals.................. 43 Events....................................... 44 Membership Benefits................. 46

Front Cover Photo: Maureen Young

Victoria Unite Chief Executive Perthshire Chamber of Commerce Saltire House 3 Whitefriars Crescent Perth PH2 0PA T: 01738 448325 E: vicki@perthshirechamber.co.uk W: www.perthshirechamber.co.uk For advertising contact DTech on T: 01436 678808 E: sales@incommerce.biz For editorial enquiries contact the Editor, Vicki Unite on T: 01738 448325 E: info@perthshirechamber.co.uk Publisher: DTech InCommerce is published by DTech, 20 East Argyle Street, Helensburgh G84 7RR. Telephone 01436 678808.

E-mail: info@dtechuk.com. Edited by Perthshire Chamber of Commerce, Saltire House, 3 Whitefriars Crescent, Perth PH2 0PA Tel: 01738 448325.

E-mail: info@perthshirechamber.co.uk. InCommerce is fully protected by copyright and nothing may be printed wholly or in part without the written permission of the publishers. The proprietors of this magazine are publishers and not agents, or sub-agents of those who advertise therein. They cannot be held liable for any loss suffered as a result of information gained from this publication.

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Perth’s new £25m sports hub............................ 26-27

@ChamberPerth

The views expressed by authors of articles published in this magazine are solely those of the author and are not necessarily the views of or shared by the editor, nor the publisher or the directors, shareholders and/or employees of InCommerce Ltd or DTech Publishing Ltd.

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CHAMBER NEWS

CHAMBER TO HOST BUSINESS FOCUSED REFERENDUM DEBATE

P

erthshire Chamber of Commerce has lined up key political and business figures for a head-to-head Referendum Debate on Monday 9th June from 6.30pm at the Salutation Hotel in Perth.

This business-focussed showdown is open to both Chamber members and the wider business community. The audience

will have the chance to question and challenge the panel as the debate focusses on key issues affecting Perthshire businesses. The debate will be chaired by The Courier’s Deputy Editor, and former Political Editor, Steve Bargeton.

Admission is free, but pre-booking is essential as space will be limited. Secure your seat now by contacting events@perthshirechamber.co.uk or calling 01738 448325.

NEW CHAMBER DIRECTORS GEORGE STUBBS, GS GROUP I am delighted to have been asked to join the Chamber board.

The Chamber is the voice for businesses locally and across Scotland and having started GS Group in Perth some 22 years ago it’s good to put something back into the business community. We have grown our business across Scotland but our roots are, and will continue to remain, in Perthshire.

There is a strong team within the Chamber led by Stephen and Vicki and some fresh faces with new ideas also coming on board which I am excited about.

I hope I can influence more businesses to become engaged with Chamber activities and allow them an outlet to share their views on developing our local economy. With economic recovery well underway there has never been a better time for business to invest and grow in Perthshire.

I would like the local business community to feel I am approachable, taking on board their concerns and any ideas they wish to promote to the wider business community.

I also hope we can engage further with our local Council and various development officers to produce a sustainable long term plan for the benefit of all. This will be achieved by both sides understanding each other’s needs and having a willingness to work together for the same long term goals.

ROSS GRAHAM, GRAHAM ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES I am delighted to be joining the Perthshire Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.

in Glasgow, right through to the Referendum on Scottish Independence, there are exciting times ahead for the people of Perthshire and beyond.

Having been a very active member of the Chamber for the last few years, I can see the benefits that membership has brought to my company and I will do my utmost to carry on the excellent work that the Chamber staff and Directors have been doing in recent years.

I feel the Chamber has a responsibility to its members to make them aware of how to maximise all commercial opportunities associated with these events. It is also important to continue to strengthen our links with MPs, MSPs, councillors and local authority figures to gain as much information as possible before making major decisions on events that will affect them both personally and professionally.

I also hope to add value to the Board and membership with my own business attributes and experience.

Having been involved in our family business since it was founded in 1993, I would happily sit down over a coffee (or beer!) with any Chamber member and discuss my own business experiences during the early start-up years, through periods of growth, right through to succession and/or exit planning, and share my successes (and mistakes!) and hopefully help shape their business journey.

I am excited by the events that will be happening locally and nationally in 2014 and the business opportunities that may be created. From the Junior Ryder Cup in Blairgowrie and the Ryder Cup at Gleneagles, to the Commonwealth Games

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

CHAMBER NEWS

CHAMBER BREAKFAST CELEBRATES OPENING OF TAY SALMON SEASON

Over 150 members of the local business community gathered at the Chamber’s Business Breakfast in January at the Dunkeld Hilton Hotel to celebrate the opening of the Tay Salmon Season and hear guest speaker First Minister Alex Salmond. Members of the local community then joined the party down on the banks of the Tay for the official ceremony where tradition sees the Tay blessed with a wee dram.

Stephen Leckie, President of the Perthshire Chamber of Commerce said: “The Scottish Highlands and Perthshire offer some of the finest salmon fishing and scenery in Scotland with Tay salmon fishing renowned the world over. The area’s fishing industry supplies important domestic and international markets for some of Scotland’s highest quality food products. Fishing is also a key tourist attraction for visitors from across the UK and overseas and this helps support Perthshire’s economy and jobs, particularly in remote and fragile areas that may otherwise struggle to survive in today‘s tough climate.

“Fishing is often perceived as a traditional pursuit of a select few, when the reality is that a growing number of people from all walks of life – of all ages - are participating in, and enjoying, this activity. One could also imagine that only large estates and sporting agents benefit, however the public are now coming to realise the value of country sports, including fishing, and associated land management practices.

“We are delighted to be associated with this event for the third consecutive year because it provides a first class opportunity to boost business connections, discuss topics of the day and celebrate an activity that contributes so much to the local economy.”

Date for your diary – 2015 Tay Salmon Season Opening Business Breakfast will again take place at the Hilton Dunkeld on Thursday 15th January so look out for your invitation.

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

CHAMBER NEWS

Perthshire Chamber of Commerce Ryder Cup Golfing Experience The Blairgowrie Golf Club, Afternoon of Tuesday 26th August 2014

THE FAMOUS GROUSE EXPERIENCE LAUNCHES ROVING DRAMMOLIER AT CONFEX The Famous Grouse Experience at Glenturret Distillery in Crieff, Scotland’s oldest working distillery, today launched a new ‘Roving Drammolier’ service, claiming title to the world’s first female ‘Drammolier’, a professional whisky expert.

Despite its heritage, whisky has no specific term for a trained and knowledgeable whisky professional and, over the years, has relied on terms such as ‘expert’, ‘consultant’ or ‘ambassador’.

Supported by

We are delighted to announce that the Perthshire Chamber of Commerce’s Ryder Cup experience continues into 2014.

Following on from the hugely successful 2013 event at The Gleneagles Hotel, we are thrilled to invite you to book our 2014 Annual Golf Day which takes place at The Blairgowrie Golf Club: home of this year’s Junior Ryder Cup. Just days before the cream of the golfing world’s juniors take to the fairways, you can experience the very same and play the fabulous championship Rosemount Course at this exclusive event.

The afternoon will tee off with a hot filled roll, tea/coffee/juice upon arrival followed by a round of golf on the terrific 18-hole Rosemount Course. After this you can enjoy a two course meal, tea/coffee/juice and the golfing greats of the day will be rewarded at the prize-giving ceremony.

Perthshire Chamber is pleased to announce that, following the very successful partnership over the last two years, Carbon Financial Partners Ltd has once again agreed to sponsor this event and enable us to offer what promises to be a very memorable day.

Carbon’s Managing Director, Gordon Wilson, is looking forward to it: “After the success of the last two years, Carbon is delighted to be sponsoring the Chamber Golf event again. The Chamber and Blairgowrie Golf Club have put together a fantastic and exclusive day to remember, which I am sure will prove hugely popular with members and their guests. I would book right away, as this event will be sure to sell-out fast!”

Perthshire Chamber of Commerce’s Chief Executive, Vicki Unite, is also excited about this event: “This is a terrific opportunity to once again experience some of the Ryder Cup magic during this hugely exciting year and play a round on this fantastic course. We are delighted to have the support again of Carbon Financial Partners and with this superb package from The Blairgowrie Golf Club it’s set to be another excellent day.”

The team of Roving Drammoliers was announced at the UK’s biggest events and meetings industry event, Confex, which is held at the Olympia in London. Their role will be to travel to events all over the world, but the team will be based at The Famous Grouse Experience in Crieff, and headed up by The Famous Grouse’s Global Brand Ambassador Lucy Whitehall.

Lucy commented: “This is a real honour for me, both as a whisky lover and as Global Brand Ambassador for The Famous Grouse, one of the world’s most popular blended whiskies.

“As Scotland’s oldest distillery, we felt it was appropriate to claim the title and establish the notion that there is such a professional and that they have as much knowledge, expertise and passion as their cousins in wine and beer.”

The Roving Drammolier service will be available for corporate and in-house events from 1st April, and provides a unique whisky experience including nosing, tasting, food matching and education. And who better to deliver a whisky tasting to your guests than the experts themselves?

You can book your places and teams by emailing the Chamber office on events@perthshirechamber.co.uk or calling 01738 448325. Teams cost £320 plus VAT, single places £80 plus VAT and this includes hot filled roll, tea/coffee/juice upon arrival, round of golf on the 18-hole Rosemount Course, two course meal, tea/coffee/juice and prize-giving. As in previous years, we expect our annual golf event to fill very quickly so please do book at your earliest convenience to avoid disappointment.

7 Queens Gardens Aberdeen AB15 4YD

61 Manor Place Edinburgh EH3 7EG

3 Atholl Place Perth PH1 5ND

T 01224 619215 F 01224 626227

T 0131 220 0000 F 0131 625 9161

T 01738 443111 F 01738 447666

www.carbonfinancial.co.uk

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@carbonfin facebook.com/carbonfp

THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

The world’s first female ‘Drammolier’,The Famous Grouse’s Global Brand Ambassador Lucy Whitehall

NEWS

PROPERTY VALUES AFFECTED BY BROADBAND SPEEDS? As Perthshire Chamber of Commerce continues to spearhead the campaign for better broadband throughout Perth and Kinross, experts are warning that property values could slump by as much as 20% without it.

A quick and reliable internet service is now seen as the fourth utility – alongside water, gas and electricity – with discerning house-hunters placing it high on their “must have” list as a necessity rather than a luxury.

BUSINESSES ON TRACK TO BACK RAIL REVOLUTION? Many businesses in Perthshire will be interested to hear of the latest campaign to improve the Fair City’s rail connections with the capital and beyond.

Transform Scotland is calling for a new electrified line to be constructed between Perth and Edinburgh as part of a “rail revolution” across key links in Scotland.

The group is also calling for the electrification and doubling of the line between Perth and Inverness and Perth and Dunblane. This, they believe, would help to encourage improved freight activity with the potential to take more than 300 lorries a day off the A9.

There are huge disparities in broadband speeds across the country and properties are in danger of being devalued by the demands of the modern homebuyer.

Small home-based businesses looking to relocate to many parts of Perthshire could also be put off properties due to their lack of high speed connections, adding to the difficulties for those trying to sell property.

Chamber Director Steven Stewart said: “Good broadband is no longer a ‘nice-to-have’. It is central to the way we live our lives today, whether in business or as consumers. Perthshire has huge advantages for business and for the quality of life it offers people. We have to make sure this is not undermined by a lack of high-speed broadband, particularly in rural parts of Perthshire. That is why the Chamber will continue to press the case with broadband suppliers and politicians to accelerate the roll-out of this essential technology across our region.”

Through its Inter-City Express Campaign, Transform Scotland hopes to revolutionise rail travel over the next 15 years and is asking Scottish businesses to back their efforts, pointing out that the typical rail journey from Perth to Edinburgh now takes longer than it did by steam train 100 years ago.

Paul Tetlaw of Transform Scotland said that the country needs a “rail revolution” to bring together all of the countries cities closer together with a “safe, civilised and sustainable” mode of transport and make Scotland’s rail network fit for the 21st century.

Mr Tetlaw branded the current rail link between Perth and Edinburgh “not fit for purpose” as an inter-city route, with the fastest rail journey taking 71 minutes - six minutes longer than the equivalent steam train journey between the cities in 2013.

Vicki Unite, Chief Executive of Perthshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “Perth has good road and coach connections, but existing rail links are not acceptable for one of Scotland’s premier cities in the heart of Scotland.

Transport is critical to our regional economy and beyond.

Better rail infrastructure would boost passenger and freight services and make our great city more accessible for commuters, tourists, business and its supply chain.”

Further details of the campaign can be found at www.transformscotland.org.uk/intercityexpress

From 27 February 2014, Perth and Kinross Council launched a Broadband Connection Voucher Scheme which is allowing businesses to benefit from higher speed broadband. The programme is offering financial assistance to small and medium sized enterprises in Perth City and Scone to help cover connection costs in accessing better broadband. The Connection Voucher Scheme is running to 31st March 2015.

The scheme, funded by the Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), allows businesses to apply for a voucher up to £3,000 each to cover the costs of installing faster and better broadband, helping them to offer customers faster service and increased reliability.

The businesses pay the VAT, any amount over the value of the voucher, and the ongoing subscription costs.

Perth is one of 22 cities which successfully bid for UK Government Super Connected Cities funding for improved broadband. Terms and conditions apply, to find out more information or to register your interest, please visit www.investinperth.co.uk/broadbandvouchers.

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

MEMBERS’ NEWS

FAMOUS HYDROS COME TOGETHER IN CRIEFF EXPANSION Stephen Leckie, CE, Crieff Hydro

Crieff Hydro was delighted to announce recently that it has expanded its collection of hotels, consolidating their position as one of Scotland’s leading operators for the business and leisure market.

The company has taken over ownership of Peebles Hydro and its sister hotel, The Park Hotel, and has also taken over the management of three hotels on the West Coast of Scotland; The Isles of Glencoe Hotel and Leisure Centre, The Ballachulish Hotel, the Oban Caledonian and also the The Yorkshire Hotel in Harrogate.

CARBON CROWNED ADVISER FIRM OF THE YEAR FOR SCOTLAND

Speaking about the moves, Chief Executive of Crieff Hydro, Stephen Leckie commented: “This is a significant opportunity to develop travel, tourism and leisure opportunities in some of the country’s most important tourist areas. Over the coming years, our approach will be to develop and enhance the existing facilities in these hotels and build on their individuality and personality. They are all very different from Crieff Hydro as a destination resort. In time, they will all share the same warmth of hospitality and independent thinking we have at Crieff. Apart from investing to develop facilities, we’ll have a particular focus on bringing together all of the local elements.

Engaging with partner businesses locally and understanding what local customers want from these hotels will be really important to us. These are great destinations and while we aren’t setting out to make these the most luxurious hotels in the area - we do want them to stand as real advocates for their villages and towns. What we are interested in is generating more new visitors to each of the areas.”

Perth’s Carbon Financial Partners has triumphed at a major UK financial services awards event for the second year in a row. The independent financial planning and investment advice firm was named Adviser Firm of the Year for Scotland at the Professional Adviser Awards 2014; an event which celebrates excellence and achievement in the financial services industry.

SUPPORT FOR CHARITY IS AS SIMPLE AS EATING CAKE!

Carbon has offices in Perth, Edinburgh, Aberdeen and Glasgow. At the end of 2013, the firm collected the Incisive Media Gold Standard for Independent Financial Advice at the national Gold Standard Awards.

Well-respected local accountants, Morris & Young have been supporting the work of CheckIn and Giraffe in Perth in the sweetest and most enjoyable way – by receiving a delicious tray of traybakes and cakes once a week. Staff and customers at the offices overlooking the North Inch have a tray delivered every week and all the money raised goes towards our charitable work in Perth and Kinross.

The cakes are reasonably priced and can be tailored to suit each venue. If your business is based in the city centre and you would like to support our work, then please contact Lorna McAllister on 01738 449227 to book a regular weekly Jobseeker, Natasha delivers a tray of cakes to Morris & or monthly cake delivery.

Young every week

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Barry O’Neill receiving Carbon’s award from Milton Jones

THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

At the 2013 event, Carbon was recognised as UK Investment Adviser of the Year. Investment Director, Barry O’Neill, collected the trophy at the London ceremony. He commented: “To come away from the Professional Adviser Awards two years in a row with a top honour is a fantastic achievement.

“The judges commented that we are the benchmark for excellence. It is great to hear such glowing independent recognition of our business.”

Carbon was also officially recognised in 2013 as one of the top chartered financial planning firms in the UK at the Personal Finance Society Conference, and was one of only four finalists in contention for the Chartered Financial Planners of the Year Award (Corporate).

Managing Director, Gordon Wilson, added: “The Professional Adviser Awards recognise the very best of the UK financial advice industry and to win back-to-back awards is fantastic.

“Carbon has built one of the very best teams of financial planners in the UK. I believe the quality of the Carbon team, our ethics and our professionalism are second to none.”

MEMBERS’ NEWS

GLENEAGLES APPEALS FOR LOST ARCHIVE MATERIAL AS IT CELEBRATES 90TH YEAR The Gleneagles Hotel is calling for members of the public to share their memories, memorabilia and photographs of the resort as it gears up to celebrate its 90th anniversary.

Built by the Caledonian Railway Company, Gleneagles first opened its doors on 6 June 1924, and was soon feted as one of the world’s leading luxury hotels. Hailed as ‘The Palace in the Glen’, Gleneagles quickly became an established part of the ‘society’ calendar, alongside yachting at Cowes and polo at Deauville.

Over the years, many notable events have taken place at the Perthshire resort, including the first international golf competition between the US and British professionals in 1921; the Commonwealth Heads of Government Conference in 1977, and the 2005 G8 summit of world leaders. However, despite its fame, archive material about the hotel’s history is sorely lacking, as Diageo archivist Christine McCafferty explains: “Gleneagles has had a fascinating journey over the past 90 years. We know it has played host to Hollywood legends, sportsmen and world leaders – however, we’re not just interested in the rich and famous. We want to hear from the people from all walks of life who have worked and played at Gleneagles in its history.

“We’re building up a great archive, but a lot of the material from the British Rail days has been lost. We know there must be literally thousands of interesting stories, photographs and pieces of memorabilia out there and we’d love to get our hands on them - who knows, we could unearth a bit of missing history.”

To submit archive material please email gleneagles.marketing@gleneagles.com or call Kate Newton on 01764 694 182.

HEARTLAND GROWS ITS VOICE IN PERTHSHIRE Heartland FM is expanding in 2014 with plans to build a second recording studio in East Perthshire to give greater access to more volunteers. Heartland FM currently broadcasts to 75% of Perthshire, reaching 28,000 listeners daily. They hope that the expansion will grant the opportunity to train new volunteers interested in radio, from on-air presenting to behind-the-scenes editing and programming.

This year also sees a greater focus on spoken word content to provide more diverse programmes to the people of Perthshire. New slots such as the Blair Blethers, a Blairgowrie based reminisces group, and an hour of Blairgowrie-based content will highlight the news and activities of Perthshire’s biggest town. Future programming will include an emphasis on arts, culture, natural history and a project to commemorate the centenary of the First World War. The On This Day mid-morning show is much missed after the sad passing of Tony Harrington in February. Tony volunteered with Heartland FM for many years and was an extremely professional, popular member of Heartland.

A change in schedule has seen Ross Pettie take over the 12-2pm live afternoon slot and the return of Frankie on Wednesday nights 6-8pm. Ross also presents on Saturday mornings 9-10 am.

Heartland FM is the Voice of Perthshire, bringing local news, weather, traffic & travel and music to the people of Perthshire.

Listen live on 97.5 & 106.6 FM or online at www.heartlandfm.co.uk

BOOK NOW FOR BELLA DONNA Lovina Roe has branched out from writing biographies into writing and publishing a book of short stories, entitled, “Bella Donna”.

“Without being “chick lit”, this is a collection of stories for Scottish women to read while sitting with their feet up and a tray of goodies beside them – tea and cakes or gin and tonics, depending on individual taste.

Lovina says: “The book contains eight stories, all different, mostly involving Scottish women and all are set in East Coast towns and cities. We in the East are very different people from those in the West and the stories reflect the Presbyterian dark humour which is so characteristic of us here. There’s romance – doomed of course – and two tales of the supernatural.

“It’s the perfect read to take on holiday because it will fit nicely into a handbag and being short stories they’re easily digested in between trips to the beach, bar or ballroom!”

Lovina has worked with Angus Findlay, photographer in St. Madoes, who created the cover and whose help to set up her blog has been invaluable. You may have seen in the local press that “Bella Donna” was launched from The Nail Bar in Perth and that’s a clue about the women in the stories. They’re not so much “ladies who lunch” as “girls who have their nails done”.

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

MEMBERS’ NEWS

GOLF & SPORTING AUCTION COINCIDES WITH THE RYDER CUP Lindsay Burns & Company, Auctioneers & Valuers in Perth, will be holding a specialist auction in late September 2014 when the eyes of the golfing world will be focused on the sporting drama unfolding at Gleneagles as Europe take on the USA in golf’s biggest tournament.

Specialist for the sale Nick Burns comments: “Huge numbers of golf fans will be in Perthshire at this time and we are hopeful that a large number of them will be interested in coming to the sale to view and bid in what is looking like being a very interesting sale.”

The sale will include a wide range of golf and sporting memorabilia as well as a private collection of rare pieces from an old Scottish golf club. Items from the collection include a long-nosed, scared-head driver by Tom Morris, St. Andrews, estimated at £1,000-1,500, a long nosed scared-head spoon by J.C. Smith, Edinburgh, estimated at £1,500-2,000 and a rare late 19th century cast iron gutty golf ball mould estimated at £300-500.

Other interesting items include early postcards which show how golf was played in the early days with the sporting attire slightly different to that of the current day players. An early postcard titled ‘Driving off, Carnoustie’ dated 1929 illustrates this perfectly (shown below).

Another vintage postcard dated 1926 shows an early view of the Gleneagles Hotel which will be hosting the Ryder Cup.

COMPANY FUNDRAISING TAKES OFF FOR SCAA Companies have been lining up to show their support for Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance by adopting the Sconebased frontline emergency response team as their “Charity Of The Year”.

Where the Scottish Communications Group led last year (and continue to do so this year), it seems others are keen to follow and the fledgling charity is delighted to welcome several new supporters on board for 2014 including House of Bruar, Glendoick Garden Centre, Binnwaste Management, Knockhill Racing Circuit, Kinross Moto Services and Pitlochry and Blairgowrie Co-ops.

“This shows that businesses really believe in what we do and recognise our value both in Perth and Kinross and beyond,” explained SCAA chief executive Gavin Davey.

“By nominating us as their Charity Of The Year and supporting us in a wide variety of enthusiastic, generous and enterprising ways, businesses are directly contributing to saving lives and improving patients’ quality of life.”

As the country’s only charity-funded helicopter air ambulance approaches its first anniversary – having responded to more than 250 emergency callouts right across Scotland – Gavin said he hoped more companies and individuals would get behind them to ensure they fly for a second year and beyond.

And he highlighted the inspired fundraising venture of Sconebased Scottish Aero Club president Dave McElroy who lifts off on May 19 on a round-the-world flight raising funds for SCAA. The RTW80 will be the first ever single engine round-theworld flight in history from Perthshire and, will see Dave fly 38,000 nautical miles across six continents in 80 days returning to a hero’s welcome at Perth Airport on Wednesday, August 6. Find out more about this ultimate fundraising feat at www.flyrtw80.com

BLACK & LIZARS HAS A TRUE VISION FOR THE FUTURE Black & Lizars, Scotland’s largest independent chain of optometrists, is delighted to announce the appointment of a new resident Optometrist, Ewan Campbell, at its state-of-the art George Street practice in Perth.

Ewan, who lives in Auchterarder, commented: “I was keen to secure my career with Black & Lizars as I knew about their extraordinary heritage, unrivalled reputation for clinical care and excellent customer service.”

Black & Lizars offers some of the most cutting edge equipment available, including an advanced 3D OCT eye-scanner in Perth.

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

The OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) scanner uses lightwaves to create a detailed 3D image of the eye and can pick up any potential problems before the patient is even aware of them; this includes a number of key eye conditions such as glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic eye changes that may not always be evident during a routine eye examination.

Ewan added: “Having an OCT scan taken is a quick and easy process. Nothing comes into contact with the eye and it is completely pain free. You will be asked to look at a target and the scan will be taken in less than a minute, much like getting a photograph taken.”

Ewan Campbell

MEMBERS’ NEWS COMMERICAL VICTORY FOR VECTOR Vector Aerospace UK, a leading provider of aviation maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services, continues to develop its civil client portfolio following the completion of yet another contract for a major fixed wing operator.

“November 2013 witnessed our initial foray into the commercial airline sector and demand has progressively increased since”, said Mick O’Connor, the Component Services Director at Vector Aerospace, Almondbank. “Historically we have supported military rotary and fixed wing customers but it is evident from our growing order book that the expertise and experience we have developed in this sector is highly prized by civil customers.”

The recent contract delivery saw the mobile repair team, from the Perth facility complete an on-wing plating repair to a high

NEW PROPERTY SHOP FOR ABERDEIN CONSIDINE

specification and to the airline’s satisfaction. The company’s growing, civil fixed wing portfolio has coincided with an imminent expansion of its on-wing composite solutions offering. Vector Aerospace’s five year growth strategy has highlighted the commercial aviation market as a prime sector for development – leveraging its experience and knowledge in defence to achieve similar results in the civil market.

The strategic and flexible nature of the capability at Almondbank was recently demonstrated by the deployment of some of its mobile repair teams to the Philippines in order to aid foreign militaries in their efforts to deliver humanitarian aid to typhoon victims. “Our ability to deploy teams across the globe to operate upon aircraft on the ground is a unique asset of which we are especially proud”, said Mr O’Connor. “Not only does it demonstrate the benefits of our investment in a highly trained workforce, but it is also proving an attractive offering to existing and prospective civil clients.”

SCOTT’S RESTAURANT’S NOVEL APPROACH

Local solicitors, Aberdein Considine have announced the opening of a second office in Perth. The firm, which moved to premises in Charlotte Street in August 2004, now has 18 branches throughout Scotland.

The Best Western Queens Hotel has turned to history to name its newly refurbished 21st century eatery.

The firm recently took the decision to establish a dedicated and separate property shop, leaving all legal and investment work to be carried out from the existing premises. The present team will be boosted by Naeema Sajid, accredited Family Law specialist.

But the bill of fare and comfortable, spacious and modern surroundings on offer today are far removed from anything diners in Perth would enjoy in the 19th century.

The new premises at 74 High Street, formerly occupied by Greggs the bakers, have been completely renovated and an additional four members of staff recruited as the new office will be open seven days a week.

The official opening was conducted on Friday March 14 by John Swinney, Cabinet Secretary for Finance, Employment and Sustainable Growth, and local MSP. Harvey Aberdein, the firm’s managing partner commented: “An increase in our business in the Fair City, particularly in the buying and selling of residential property, has meant that we needed to recruit more staff and this in turn led to the need to either move lock, stock and barrel to new premises or open a specialist property shop. We went for the second option and were delighted when the premises in the High Street came on the market. The refurbished office allows us to offer our clients, whether buying or selling property, access to state of the art property and mortgage systems.

Scott’s Restaurant is named after the renowned novelist Sir Walter Scott, whose works include ‘The Fair Maid of Perth’, a novel published in 1828. Both Scott and his lead character are imortalised in separate statues enjoying prominence on Perth’s streetscape.

The recently-opened first floor restaurant was refurbished as part of the hotel’s ongoing £250,000 improvements programme and is now open seven days a week for lunch and dinner.

Head Chef Kenny Bruce is majoring on fresh, quality, seasonal, local produce in a menu that changes monthly. His choice of menu takes the discerning diner from delicious starters such as pan seared wood pigeon on a horseradish scone with black pudding and apple chutney or smoked haddock and leek risotto with parmesan shavings through to mouthwatering main dishes including the increasingly popular range of Scott’s Grills (fish, pork and beef steaks) or satisfying alternatives such as pork, chorizo and butter bean stew.

If space allows, enjoy your choice from a selection of scrumptious deserts and all washed down with your favourite wines from Scott’s extensive cellar.

It also means that we are able to expand the breadth of services offered from our existing Charlotte Street premises.”

Aberdein Considine was established in 1981 offering property, legal and financial services to both private and commercial clients throughout Scotland.

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

3D Developments Ltd Coaching for Change and Transformation Performance Coaching offers transformational approaches to enhance business skills, supports and enables high performing teams and individuals whilst maintaining management integrity. We offer Executive, Management, Supervisory and Team Facilitation Coaching. We are committed to:

Providing high quality coaching services Giving personal care and attention Being professional, ethical and enthusiastic Providing solution focussed results Based in Bo’ness, we are the only Coaching Business in Scotland licensed to offer Spectrum™ Emotional Coaching to improve business skills and individual Health & Wellbeing. The Chartered Management Institute recently quoted that £12.2bn a year is lost due to sick days taken.

Spectrum™ Emotional Coaching for Health and Wellbeing helps

businesses maintain happy, healthy and productive employees. We help individuals fine tune and focus on what matters to them so that they have better Life Work Balance and are more productive. Emotional Coaching encourages solution focussed thinking, helps people make better choices and create their own strategies to achieve desired results. It enables people to change relationships with anything causing stress, that is negative or which has held them back in the past, allowing them to move forward and achieve more of what they want.

Over the last five years we have been involved with Synergy Affiliates utilising Spectrum™ in the effective treatment of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and other related problems, producing some great results. The results achieved are measurable and supported by research. Working with charities, 3000 individuals, many of whom include Ex-Services Veterans, have achieved very positive results. Spectrum™ Emotional Coaching is also proving successful for the treatment of addiction, smoking cessation, weight loss, anxiety, depression and personal development.

INTERESTED? - Please contact Joan Boyd 01506-499645 or 07887 984079 A DISCOUNT OF 5% IS AVAILABLE TO CHAMBER MEMBERS. 3D Developments Ltd, 99 Blair Avenue, Deanburn, Bo’ness, EH51 0QP Tel: 01506 499645 • Mobile: 07887 984079 • www.nlp-coaching-scotland.co.uk Registered in Scotland No 211387

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MEMBERS’ NEWS

John Gillespie

GLOBAL FIRST FOR PERTH HAIRDRESSER Perth star stylist John Gillespie has shown he‘ s a cut above the rest by becoming the world’s first ever Global Care Ambassador for international premier hair care company Schwarzkopf Professional.

The award-winning stylist, who has dressed the tresses of A-list celebrities and captured the attention of some of the world’s leading models, claims the swoop by the German company sees him take on one of the most prestigious hair appointments in the world.

“This is the first role of its kind in the world,” explained a delighted John, “and I am the world’s first ambassador ever to be appointed to focus on the health of hair.

“Schwarzkopf is a massive, globally respected brand and it’s an unbelievable compliment to be endorsing their hair care world wide.”

With nearly 30 years experience in hairdressing and a unique work portfolio featuring over 50 countries across the world, John is delighted by this new focus on hair health from the industry.

“I have created a care culture for this brand that will be rolled out across the world and am currently designing training systems and educational platforms to ensure products are properly supported by skills and experience.

“It’s a real corporate role and I am ready for it” he said. “My global experience is unique in the industry. It gives me a rare insight into the hair care needs in every corner of the globe and I think it is that invaluable experience - along with my salon skills - that prompted this appointment.”

Perth-born John (44), who owns salons in the city’s St John Street and nearby McEwens of Perth, believes his appointment is also a feather in the cap for the Fair City.

“A German-based leading global hair care company wants to take the experience of a Perth-based hairdresser and roll it out across the world - how great is that?”

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

John Swinney MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Employment, Finance and Sustainable Growth, with Anne Walker, Manager of the Perth & Kinross Credit Union

PERTH AND KINROSS CREDIT UNION Perth and Kinross Credit Union (PKCU) opened its doors on 7 April, offering people who live or work in Perth and Kinross a way to save securely and borrow responsibly.

As well as offering its services directly, PKCU is keen to work with employers to offer savings through payroll deduction. Giving your employees access to ethical financial services could mean improved productivity and decreased absenteeism, as workers have less finance-related stress.

Employer members can also attract and retain staff by offering a safe and convenient way to save, and demonstrate their commitment to supporting local initiatives.

Chair of the PKCU Board, Michelle Maddox, said: “We can offer leaflets, information for your staff intranet or newsletter and we’re happy to come and speak to your staff face to face. Our aim is to help people stay financially independent.”

The credit union was proud to welcome John Swinney MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Employment, Finance and Sustainable Growth, to open the premises at 282 High Street, Perth and become its very first saver.

John Swinney said, “A key success factor for any credit union is the support of large local employers who may provide savings deducted direct from wages for staff who sign up. I would encourage all employers locally to engage with Perth and Kinross Credit Union and help get it off to a flying start.”

If you would like to hear more about the employer partner scheme, call PKCU Manager Anne Walker on 01738 624872 or visit www.pkcu.org.uk

MEMBERS’ NEWS

PERTH COLLEGE UHI WORKING WITH BUSINESS Penny Brodie, Chairman of the Board of Perth College UHI announced the appointment of Margaret Munckton as new Principal and Chief Executive on 4 March.

Margaret has been Acting Principal and Chief Executive since October 2013. She joined Perth College UHI in 2007 as Director of Strategy and Margaret Munckton Financial Planning, before being appointed to the role of Assistant Principal, Curriculum and Planning in 2008. Throughout her time at Perth College UHI, Margaret has been committed to working with business and a key focus of the Perth College UHI Strategic Plan 2013-2016 is to ensure that their engagement with business is meaningful.

“By working with employers we want to make sure that our curriculum fits with the needs of industry and that our graduates leave with the skills that businesses need now and in the future.

“We provide options for up-skilling and professional development for staff through our extensive short course programme, accredited qualifications and bespoke training.

“Businesses can also gain from exchanging knowledge with, and accessing the research capacity of, our expert and talented staff. Partnerships between business and academia can encourage product development, resource sharing and knowledge exchange with the ultimate goal of driving business development and growth.

“We would very much welcome any approach by a business, whether to develop closer links with a specific curriculum area, to offer student placement or project opportunities or access the research capacity of our staff. To find out more, please contact info.cfe@perth.uhi.ac.uk.”

LIVE STREAM COMES ON LINE AT JOHNSTON MEDIA Crieff Based Johnston Media is embracing the very latest technology to offer clients an exciting new dimension to their corporate events.

The in-demand company is tapping into the expanding 3G & 4G mobile ultra broadband network, offering live streaming of events, meetings and conferences in Broadcast HD to view on computers, iPhones, iPads as well as Android phones and tablets, thereby literally opening their event to the world.

This new offering from Johnston Media means that everyone can attend your event – even if not in person – and no staff, client or business associate need miss out.

Company owner Ian Johnston explained the technology behind this latest innovative service.

“Using HD cameras, video mixers and encoding equipment we can stream almost any event from anywhere in the UK or Europe,” he said, “and for the places where there is no 3G or 4G signal we have our own Satellite System. This ensures you get the best picture and sound quality possible regardless of where you are.

“Videos can be embedded on to Social Media sites like Facebook and Twitter or even your own web site,” he added. “Live Chat can also be enabled for interaction with your meeting or event.”

Among Johnston Media clients already signing up for the live stream technology is the Scottish Police Authority.

“There are a lot of benefits to be gained from this type of service and I’m always happy to discuss individual requirements and tailor-made options with potential clients,” said Ian. (call Iain on 07753-77125).

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

BUSINESS SUPPORT

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

BUSINESS SUPPORT

BE PART OF IT: VOLUNTEERING SURGE EXPECTED IN 2014, EMPLOYERS WARNED TO PREPARE

2

014 is an eventful year for Scotland. Homecoming celebrations are already well underway, the Commonwealth Games arrive in Glasgow this July and the Ryder Cup will arrive in Scotland this September for only the second time in the history of the competition.

Across the country thousands of volunteers are being sought to assist with these major events, creating potential challenges for both employers and the events themselves.

Employment law expert Kate Wyatt explains that it is essential that organisations and individuals are aware of the difference between volunteers and employees to keep themselves on the right side of the law.

Kate commented: “Volunteers do not have a contract of employment, so can’t be required to work a certain number of hours or days.

Correspondingly, they have no entitlement to receive work or to be paid.”

So it begs the question, if a volunteer for a major event has set hours and days of work during the period of an event and gets paid, is the volunteer actually an employee?

There are some key factors in which organisations can use to clarify the difference between volunteers and employees:

The impact which these two major events may have on Scottish employers is also likely to be considerable, with an unusual increase in the numbers of staff expected to request unpaid or annual leave over these periods.

With both the Ryder Cup and the Commonwealth Games, not to mention other major events, all looking to make extensive use of volunteers, the likelihood of someone in your organisation volunteering to take part may be actually quite high. This can create considerable pressure on employers during these peak periods so it is essential you are prepared for any impact this may have.

Kate commented: “With Scotland hosting two major global events in 2014, it is likely employers will be faced with a surge in staff who want time off to volunteer, or attend the Commonwealth Games or the Ryder Cup at Gleneagles.

“We advise employers to plan now for such likely pressures and in particular to consider requiring extra notice of employees’ holiday plans for the relevant period to ensure appropriate staffing levels will be maintained. Having extra notice will enable holiday or unpaid leave to be allocated fairly and consistently in a non-discriminatory way. If employers are prepared to allow employees to take leave to volunteer, ask for plenty of notice and confirm in respect of each agreed request whether it is granted as unpaid leave, annual leave or paid volunteer leave.”

•

Volunteers genuinely offer their services and time freely and without obligation. Event organisers should ensure they have a carefully worded volunteer agreement in place, which includes a statement that there is no obligation to provide or do work.

Advance planning, reminding staff of procedures for booking annual leave and informing them of your volunteering policies well in advance will ensure that staff know what to expect and will reduce the likelihood of problems at the time of the events themselves.

•

Where there is no obligation to give or perform work, an obligatory work schedule for the organisation’s convenience can cause confusion and blur the lines between volunteer and employee. Organisations must ensure that those supervising volunteers understand the difference between employed and volunteer status and do not impose employee type requirements such as set hours and disciplinary procedures on volunteers.

Provided by Kate Wyatt, Associate and employment law expert, Miller Hendry, Perth Email: katewyatt@millerhendry.co.uk Tel: 01738 637 311 Web: www.millerhendry.co.uk

•

Organisations using volunteers should also take particular care with any payments. Volunteers should not receive any benefits except genuine expenses, preferably on production of receipts. Additional payments can change the relationship from voluntary to one of employment.

Kate Wyatt, Associate and Employment Law Expert, Miller Hendry

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

A TASTE OF THE FUTURE FOR PERTHSHIRE’S FOOD AND DRINK SECTOR

P

erth is to become home to Scotland’s first dedicated industrial food and drink park.

Plans have been unveiled for a unique and innovative complex at North Muirton, designed to position Perth at the forefront of the Scottish food and drink sector and capitalise on and enhance the region’s increasingly successful sector industry.

Food and drink is one of the key sectors of the Perth city region with a number of innovative small to medium enterprises (SMEs), artisan producers and international brands already based in the area. This experience, together with easy access to Scotland’s major trunk road networks, makes it the ideal location for businesses looking for a central location as well as expansion opportunities for existing and start-up food and drink producers within Perth and Kinross.

Providing fully serviced sites in support of food and drink businesses, Perth Food and Drink will be the only dedicated industrial food and drink park in Scotland. On completion, the new park will comprise 16 acres of serviced development plots.

Plans are also being developed for the creation of a unique Food and Drink Innovation Hub within the Park which will provide flexible space, touchdown and hot-desking facilities and potentially a demonstrator kitchen. This Hub will aim to host regular food and drink related events, showcasing best practice and the promotion of new product lines.

The launch of Perth Food and Drink Park took place in Perth Concert Hall immediately following the recent Going Places with Scotland’s Food and Drink Industry Global Excellence Conference.

Hosting the launch, Councillor John Kellas, convener of Perth and Kinross Council’s Enterprise and Infrastructure Committee, said: “Perth Food and Drink Park is a really exciting opportunity to help further improve Perth and Kinross’s reputation for quality food and drink production. We already have many world-renowned producers working within the area

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

l to r: Councillor John Kellas, convener of Perth and Kinross Council’s Enterprise and Infrastructure Committee, John Swinney MP, Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Sustainable Growth and David Littlejohn Head of Planning and Regeneration with PKC.

who can attest to the advantages of working from within Scotland’s heartland with easy transport links to the rest of the country.

“The Council’s commitment to this industry is demonstrated by the investment in industrial land to develop a unique food and drink park designed to meet the requirements for producers of all sizes. Developing the Park could initially support up to 11 businesses and offers opportunities to help support existing local producers who are looking for the right space and facilities to be able to develop their business to its full potential, as well as encouraging organisations from outwith the area to consider investing in Perth and Kinross.”

Speaking at the launch, John Swinney MP, Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Sustainable Growth, outlined the value of the food and drink sector to Perthshire and Scotland’s economy.

Mr Swinney said: “Perth has strong credentials in the food and drink industry, with around 130 companies based here, providing employment to almost 1900 people showing itself as a city to live, work, invest and visit.

“Today’s launch of Perth Food and Drink Park shows that Scotland’s food and drink businesses are booming. Latest figures show that the industry turnover is worth £13.1 billion per year to the Scottish economy.

“Food and Drink is one of the key sectors in the Perthshire region and this new food and drink park will support the continued growth of the sector in the local area.”

Vicki Unite, CE of Perthshire Chamber of Commerce said: “Perth and Kinross Council’s initiative offers great potential value to the area. Projects such as this, which target specific sectors – particularly those where there is already a natural affinity – provides an excellent ‘hook’ and marketing opportunity to promote the fact that Perth is ideally positioned in Scotland for business and this site at North Muirton – just off a main trunk road – offers exceptional accessibility.”

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

CHAMBER SPONSORS Platinum Partners

BANK OF SCOTLAND Stewart Martin, Senior Manager – SME Banking Tayside, said: “Bank of Scotland is proud to support the Chamber as a platinum partner, and is consistently impressed by its tireless efforts to develop Perthshire’s business community.

“We remain committed to working with local businesses to enable them to pursue growth opportunities as economic conditions improve.

“While other banks cut loans to small businesses last year, as part of Lloyds Banking Group we increased new lending to SMEs by £1.1bn in the nine months to December 2013, which was by far the largest contribution made by a single lender to the sector.

“As we continue to approve eight out of ten small business applications for loans and overdrafts, we look forward to helping more Perthshire businesses prosper from the green shoots of recovery.”

GS GROUP Independent broker GS Group was the main sponsor of the 2013 Perthshire Chamber of Commerce’s Business Star Awards and is a new Platinum Partner.

The Perth-headquartered company started life in 1991 with owner and founder George Stubbs operating as a sole trader.

Consistent growth and expansion since then has resulted in the company becoming one of the UK’s foremost independent brokers and a significant employer in Perth and Kinross.

With its success at an all-time high Mr Stubbs embarked on a rebranding and alignment exercise to bring all strands of the business under the same umbrella, and so GS Insurance, GS Financial and GS Corporate - with staff spread across Perth, Dundee, Falkirk and Glasgow - has now become GS Group.

Mr Stubbs said: “GS Group is delighted once again to be the main sponsor of the Chamber’s Business Star Awards for 2014 and 2015 and to recognise business growth and achievement in our area. I enjoy finding out more about the diverse range of excellent businesses throughout Perthshire and working closely with the Chamber of Commerce.”

GS Group offers comprehensive services in a wide range of fields including insurance broking, corporate insurance and financial planning and has a range of specialists proactively managing clients’ insurance programmes.

THE JAMES HUTTON INSTITUTE The James Hutton Institute has appointed Mark Sinclair as Director of Corporate Services.

“I’m delighted to join the Institute at a time when there are exciting projects on the horizon, including the proposed redevelopment of our site at Invergowrie,” said Mark.

“Our world leading research helps provide solutions to global challenges, such as food, energy and water security, but its success depends on the support of the local communities where we are based.

“We look forward to continuing to work with Perthshire Chamber of Commerce and local businesses as we develop our vision for a research site fit to meet the challenges of the future.”

Mark’s appointment completes the Executive team at the Institute alongside Professor Iain Gordon, Chief Executive; Professor Bob Ferrier, Director of Research Impact; Professor Colin Campbell, Director of Science Excellence; and Beth Corcoran, Director of Finance.

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

GRAHAM ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES Ross Graham, Managing Director: Graham Environmental Services Ltd are delighted to be a Platinum Partner of Perthshire Chamber of Commerce alongside the other prestigious local and national Chamber Partners.

As our company has grown over the last 20 years we have found the Chamber’s networking events, training courses, golf days and Annual Dinners extremely enjoyable and very beneficial. This was particularly true during our diversification in recent years while we added our other range of services (fire extinguishers, kitchen deep cleaning, washroom service and PAT testing) to our core services.

We are big believers in “you can’t grow your business unless you grow your knowledge”, and the Chamber has given us the platform and opportunities to further develop our staff through training and connections which has assisted our growth greatly over the last few years. Case Study - one introduction from Vicki Unite has covered the cost of our Platinum membership for the next 4 years!!

CHAMBER SPONSORS Platinum Partners

PERTH COLLEGE UHI David Gourley, Curriculum and Business Engagement Director “Businesses play a crucial part in our students‘ education and as industry experience puts theory into practice and prepares students for the workplace, placements and apprenticeship opportunities provide huge benefits to both students and businesses. Students gain tremendously by developing the skills, knowledge and attitudes that employers value.

BINNWASTE MANAGEMENT Managing Director Allan MacGregor: “The family-run businesses of Binn Skips and Binnwaste Management have always been conscious of playing a responsible and supportive role in the community. It’s equally important to support the local business community and a Platinum Partnership allows us to help businesses through the valuable and effective work that the Chamber does.

“The sponsorship package also gives us a higher profile within the Chamber which is an effective marketing tool.

“Our Chamber Platinum Partnership helps to provide us with direction and contacts with industry so that our students and the local business community benefit from the very latest in business thinking.”

“Binnwaste Management realises the importance of business support and networking and hopefully our sponsorship will help maintain and enhance these vital services for businesses throughout Perthshire.”

MCLEOD GLAZIERS

ROYAL BANK OF SCOTLAND

Derek Petterson McLeod Glaziers is a name synonymous with Perth.

Having been established since 1836, this leading firm is known for “everything in glass” and has kept abreast of contemporary products and styles and offers an extensive range of services to the property owner, both residential and commercial.

“The past year has been a busy one for McLeod’s with a number of major contract wins and new products, such as glass splashbacks, have been introduced and are proving popular in the market.” said CEO Derek Petterson.

“Mcleod Glaziers have moved from Silver to Platinum partner status which was an easy decision,” said Derek. “Mcleod’s won a Star Award accolade last year and becoming a Platinum partner simply felt the natural step with the Chamber of Commerce and we are delighted to be increasing our support of Vicki and her team.”

Gold Partners

Vic Bicocchi, Local Director, Commercial Banking, Tayside: “We are great admirers of the work the Chamber does not just in networking but also in training and business skills events. It is really important to offer that in your local area and we want to be part of that.

“The Star Awards are also important to us and one of the most enjoyable days was going around visiting the entrants as a sponsor/judge and seeing the wealth of talent out there. We’re happy to support Chamber in its valuable work.

“At RBS we have both the appetite and the ability to lend – in fact we lend more to SMEs in the UK than any other bank.”

Silver Partners

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BUSINESS SUPPORT

TRIBUNAL FEES: WHAT WILL THEY COST THE EMPLOYER? On 29 July 2013 fees were introduced in the Employment Tribunals (“ET”) and Employment Appeal Tribunal (“EAT”).

Issue fees can be up to £400 whilst hearing fees can cost £1,200. This is a significant cost for claimants to expend and accordingly the ET and EAT Rules give tribunals discretion to make a costs order against respondents up to the amount of the fees paid by the claimant/appellant, where the claimant/appellant is successful.

In a recent case (Portnykh v Nomura International plc), the EAT ordered the respondent to pay the appellant’s fees for the appeal (£1,600) and rejected the respondent’s argument that it should not pay the appellant’s fee because of the way in which he had conducted the tribunal litigation. The EAT found that the appellant’s conduct of the litigation, though unhelpful and uncooperative, was not dissimilar to the approach to litigation taken by other litigants in person and it had not made any significant difference to the conduct of the appeal. In making this decision, the EAT took into account that the respondent had substantially lost the appeal and had the ability to pay.

This case provides useful guidance on the factors a tribunal may take into account when exercising its discretion to make an award of costs. Knowing that it is likely that respondents will be ordered to pay a successful claimant’s tribunal fees will assist employers when considering whether to make an offer of settlement and at what level.

Provided by Debbie Fellows, Associate (Accredited as an Employment Law Specialist by the Law Society of Scotland) of Thorntons Law LLP Email: dfellows@thorntons-law.co.uk Tel: 01382 229111 Web: www.thorntons-law.co.uk

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

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

Normal opening hours Oct - Easter 8.30am til 5pm Thursday to Tuesday, Closed on Wednesday. Easter to Oct 8am til 5.30pm.

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

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

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

M E A D O W S I D E M A R I N E LT D

• GRP Repair Specialists • Osmosis Treatment • Insurance Damage QUALITY WORK CARRIED OUT

BY EXPERIENCED TECHNICIANS Kip Marina, Inverkip, PA16 0AS Mobile: 07713 682 548

Debbie Fellows, Associate in Litigation, Thorntons Law LLP

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

Contact no. at Mast and Rigging Services Tel: 01475 522 700 Fax: 01475 552 800

Honour the ones who didn’t come home.

Help Erskine care for the ones who did.

Erskine has been providing care, accommodation and employment for ex-Service men and women in Scotland since 1916. We depend heavily on the generosity of people like you to continue our valuable work. So please give whatever you can.

To donate, visit www.erskine.org.uk or call free on 0300 123 1203.

Erskine is the trading name of Erskine Hospital. Scottish Charity Number SC006609.

BUSINESS SUPPORT

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I O N A L S S E F O R P R A P H Y P H O T O G

NewLogo = MORE

T

oday it is more important than ever to project your business correctly. Markets have become oversaturated, online businesses pop-up every day and as competition increases it is important to keep your company at the forefront of your target market.

Effective use of Corporate Logos and Photography generate a powerful combination in creating a first impression of your business. We have chosen these two small parts of ‘branding’ to concentrate on in this article as they are very important to get correct and two parts that, if not used correctly, can give a negative impression.

Corporate Identity Company branding is a way to clearly identify your business or product. It gives you the opportunity to project to the intended market in a way that can motivate a purchase, confirm credibility and connect emotionally to your target audience.

Branding incorporates many things including your logo, products packaging, printed stationery, vehicle livery and style of photography. It also includes the customer service, the quality of product and really anything that creates a perception of your business. Most small business branding however starts with the Corporate Identity or to be more specific – The Company Logo.

BUSINESS! designers is FEDEX. It looks simple; it was even argued by a client that it looked like it was something ‘he’ could have done on MS Word. The FedEx Logo was voted one of the 8 best logos in the last 35 years. Once you see the arrow between the ‘E’ and the ‘X’ you will forever see it and won’t be shy to share the FedEx secret with others.

Photography Photography is just as important as the company logo and used correctly it can give your company or product the edge over your competitors. Investing in professional photography for your company is essential.

The quality of a photograph will reflect the quality of your business. Whether as part of a simple social media campaign, staff headshots, website appearance or advertising campaign, a professionally taken photograph is a very worthy investment.

As the saying goes – ‘a picture tells a thousand words’ – making photography one of the most important parts of creating a compelling and eye catching marketing campaign.

Article provided by: Gary Paterson – www.tgocreative.co.uk and Fraser Band – www.fraserband.co.uk

A company logo should be easily identifiable and reflect the company’s product or market. It should consist of a unique colour scheme or differing typography to avoid any similarities with your competition. It should also look consistent on promotional material, vehicle livery, a website or work-wear.

Icons and specific shapes used in a logo can also be utilised as water marks in the background of promotional material and stationery or it can be used for impressive Spot UV gloss effects on folders or even as a recognisable stand alone icon such as the world famous ‘Golden Arches’ of McDonalds.

Logos can also have subtle shapes or use negative space to its advantage. One logo that is legendary amongst

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

Gary Paterson

Fraser Band

Beechgrove

Bed And Breakfast This attractive former Victorian manse (vicarage), set in a large garden, with ample free secluded parking, is the perfect location for business or holiday visitors, being only 5 minutes walk to the City Centre, a 5 minute drive from the M90 and a short drive to Perth Racecourse. The new owners, who run it, have installed new ensuite bathrooms in the spacious bedrooms. There are flat screen tvs and free wifi. Delicious breakfasts, using mostly local produce, are served in the elegant dining room.

The MacLehoses love having guests and will do everything possible to help make your stay a memorable one. There is much to do in and around Perth. There are attractive local walks direct from the house and the concert hall, theatre, restaurants, ice rink and swimming pool are only a short walk away. Scone Palace and Perth Race Course are a matter of 10 minutes in the car. Golf courses are numerous in the area and extremely popular. There is fishing on the River Tay or on nearby lochs.

Beechgrove Bed and Breakfast • Dundee Road, Perth PH2 7AQ Tel: 01738 636147 • Mobile: 07834 631200 • Email: enquiries@beechgroveperth.co.uk • www.beechgroveperth.co.uk

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

REGENERATION

PERTH’S NEW £25 MILLION SPORTS HUB PLANS MAKE A SPLASH Recent plans unveiled by Live Active Leisure (LAL), showcased “PH 2O”, a £25 million sports, leisure and fitness development for the heart of the City of Perth. In-Commerce finds out what is to be gained for the Leisure Trust, the community and our local economy.

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groundbreaking initiative designed to deliver Perth’s biggest sports development in a generation will be constructed in around five years time if £25 million of funding is secured.

Live Active Leisure has already attracted around £10 million for the ambition plans which will see the existing Leisure Pool and Dewars Centre site off Glasgow Road redeveloped as a multi-sports and leisure hub.

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

The PH2O plans show an impressive “one stop” building which will house training pools, leisure water, ice for curling and skating, gym and studio. Around 20 different sports will be catered for. Catering provisions and an outdoor adventure play zone will extend the offer, with an activities “hub” that will signpost the wider LAL facilities as well as other activity providers throughout Perthshire.

The development is LAL’s largest “own-brand” project since the original Perth Leisure Pool was completed in 1988.

REGENERATION But delivering developments of this scale is how the trust started out – in 1967 it was created (and known as PKRF) to operate Bell‘s Sports Centre. Although 21 years apart, both projects were heralded as hugely innovative and very much ahead of their time. And these credentials saw LAL charged with the delivery of Perth Concert Hall in 2005.

PH2O, though, is their most ambitious project to date and it is being expertly led by Mike Robinson, one of the Trust’s nonexec directors. Mike is Chief Executive of the Royal Scottish Geographical Society where he has delivered around 15 large capital projects in the past 20 years. Other members of the PH2O working team come with similarly impressive CVs. The PH2O plans follow seven years of research looking at everything from the way that people like to access exercise to the number of users in the area and the dramatic increase on demands on LAL facilities. Add to this that both Perth Leisure Pool and Dewars were designed during a more affluent period (when running cost considerations were very different from today’s more frugal requirements) and we begin to see why change has been intimated.

Perth Leisure Pool can rightly lay claim to be Scotland’s most successful leisure pool. It has welcomed well over 12 million visitors since opening in 1988, equating to more than twice the population of Scotland and averages around 10,000 visitors every week.

There is no opportunity for expansion at present but with the PH2O blueprint LAL is confident of attracting an additional 100,000 visits each year to the city centre site.

Around 250,000 people are expected to come from outwith the PH postcode and it is this projection that gives very real substance to the belief that PH2O will bring more than £2.5 million each year to the local Perth City economy.

Jim Moyes, CEO of Live Active Leisure, commented: “It is anticipated that PH2O will further improve Perth’s appeal as a destination visit and will assist in attracting fellow Scots and visiting tourists throughout the year. A development of this size and nature will, most certainly, breathe new life into the city and create further opportunities for tourism.

The economic impact this additional footfall and increased tourism will bring to local businesses will be significant.”

As well as changes in the population and their sporting aspirations, LAL are aware of the significant environmental impact of their facilities. Both buildings are extremely energy intensive; one in the preparation of ice which generates ‘waste’ heat and the other, in heating water and air for bather comfort and enjoyment. Existing plant rooms are at opposite corners of the site, too far apart to be linked to realise energy efficiencies. In PH2O the plant rooms will be combined to re-use waste heat from creating ice to preheat water and air for the swimming pool. This will show a reduction of 20% in energy consumption – a measurable saving in both environmental impact and financial terms.

Interestingly, LAL are also exploring some innovative opportunities that may allow them to resell any surplus heat generated to neighbouring developments.

From an operational point of view, LAL’s offer is currently fragmented, with activities being delivered across several different venues. Bringing key elements of these together improves the experience for the customer and reduces costs as duplications are addressed. LAL predicts that added ease of access and opportunity will increase the numbers of people benefiting from a more active lifestyle, thus driving up income and all the while reducing costs.

Nicola Lessells, Live Active Leisure’s Deputy CEO and Financial Controller for the Trust, commented: “PH2O offers a unique ‘spend to save’ opportunity. If we do nothing, income trends will fall and costs will rise which clearly has dramatic financial implications, but also impacts on the quality and quantity of opportunities for our communities to live actively.”

This project is aspirational but it is also deliverable.

A £25 million investment in PH2O will reap business rewards for LAL, deliver improved customer service and positively impact on our local Perth City economy. Live Active Leisure has £10 million of the funds required and is currently in discussion with other funding partners. If you would like to be involved in this opportunity then visit www.ph2operth.co.uk to find out more.

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

BUSINESS SUPPORT

ALTERNATIVES TO TRIBUNALS – EASIER FOR ALL

Chartered Quantity Surveyors & Building Cost Consultants since 1953.

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mployment tribunals are costly and stressful for all concerned. Informal dispute resolution methods, such as conciliation, arbitration and mediation, are cheaper, quicker and less distressing.

From May 6th 2014, following the Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Act (2013), any employee seeking an employment tribunal must first go to the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (Acas) for Early Conciliation.

What is conciliation?

It is a free service, from Acas, where an impartial conciliator discusses the issues with both sides to find a mutually acceptable solution. The conciliator explains how tribunals work, what your options are and the strengths/weaknesses of your case. They’ll tell you any proposals the other side has made but will not make a judgement, nor advise you whether to settle.

What is arbitration?

An impartial arbitrator hears both sides of the case and makes a judgement. Both parties agree beforehand to abide by the arbitrator’s decision, who could be a senior manager or HR officer in the organisation or an external person e.g. from Acas.

CDM Co-ordinators, advising clients on health and safety duties in construction.

2 King James Place I Perth I 01738 625619

www.raogg.com

What is mediation?

An impartial mediator facilitates communication between those in dispute in order for them to understand each other better and to come up with mutually acceptable solutions to improve their working relationships in future. Mediation is best when the two parties have to continue working together after the dispute is resolved. It is especially effective if used as a preventative measure, before the dispute escalates, but can also be used after a disciplinary or grievance to repair the working relationship.

To contact Acas, call 08457 474747.

To find a mediator, see www.scottishmediation.org.uk

19 Marshall Place, Perth PH2 8AG

(01738) 441144

Award-winning customer service:

Provided by Rachel Weiss of Rowan Consultancy Registered Mediator with the Scottish Mediation Network Email Rachel.weiss@rowan-consultancy.co.uk Tel: 01738 562005 Web: www.rowan-consultancy.co.uk

Established in 1875

Rachel Weiss of Rowan Consultancy

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

Investments and income arising from them can fall in value and you may lose some or all of the amount you have invested.

Members of the London Stock Exchange Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Redmayne-Bentley LLP is a Limited Liability Partnership Registered in England and Wales No: OC344361 Registered Office: 9 Bond Court, Leeds LS1 2JZ. VAT No: GB 165 8810 81

Poor Dennis...

He didn’t buy a Kitchen from Callum Walker Interiors!

www.callumwalker.com Exclusive Brands | Contemporary Design | Skilled Craftsmanship A Scottish based award winning studio with partnerships to Charles Yorke, Valcucine and Bauformat

Ruthvenfield Road,

Opening Hours

Inveralmond, Perth PH1 3EE Tel: 01738 638822 Email: enquiries@callumwalker.com www.callumwalker.com

Monday to Friday: 9am - 5pm Saturday: 10am - 4.30pm

Ultimate Living Spaces

Employers -

get

connected!

funding to recruit The Recruit 25+ P&K initiative provides:

- funding to help small and medium enterprises expand their teams with recruits aged 25+; - paid employment for residents who live in local areas with high unemploment levels.

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Perth & Kinross

employment connections

enterprises expand their teams with recruits aged 25+;

Some Case Studies and Testimonials

- paid employment for residents who live in local areas with high unemploment levels.

Employers -

Scottish Charity Air Ambulance Briony Blair aged 24 Started 01/07/13 -37.5 hours

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funding to recruit

ollowing on from our success of the 1st Youth Employment Scotland Fund (YES Fund) allocation 1st July 2013 – 31st March 2014, we have secured more funding to support more Employer’s to recruit young people from 1st April – 31st December 2014.

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They were the 1st ever employer to access the Youth Employment Scotland fund, by employing Briony Blair as an Events and Volunteers Co-ordinator on 1st July 2014, Briony’s funding for the post (26 weeks) finished 27/12/13 and has subsequently had her employment sustained on a full time permanent basis with SCAA and has been given additional responsibilities.

Due to the success and the support through funding they have been able to expand their team by employing a new employee, Cameron Shepherd, a university graduate as a Fundraising Assistant who started on 8th April 2014, which was made possible by accessing the YES Fund.

Since 1st July 2013 we have supported – 123 young people into jobs via the YES fund and 27 individuals aged 25+ into jobs via the Recruit 25+ fund.

If you would like find out more please contact: Lynn Webster • Tel 01738 477965 Email thehub@pkc.gov.uk

Briony was Perth & Kinross Council’s 1st sign up on the YES Fund and started with the SCAA as a Events and Volunteer Coordinator working 37.5 hours a week, Briony has organised many fundraising events for the Charity and has been pivitol in recruiting a small team of volunteers in aid of raising funds for the charity. Briony’s end date was 27th December 2013 and she has sustained employment with the charity on a permanent full time basis.

Wylie and Henderson Amanda Comrie aged 22 Started 12/08/13 – 35 hours per week Angela Henderson Contacted Perth & Kinross Council Employability Officer following an email regarding the funding. Initially Wylie and Henderson had another youngster in mind for the initiative, however after discussions, and advice this offer was withdrawn, 4 weeks later following a recruitment drive Amanda was employed through the YES Fund Initiative. Amanda has been doing really well and as of 7th February 2014 was offered a full time permanent contract with Wylie and Henderson. Angela advised that they are extremely pleased with Amanda, “she is an asset to the Company and fits in really well, really happy to have her” Angela thanked Perth & Kinross Council for all their support.

PROPOSED PROGRAMME OF BUSINESS TRAINING FOR 2014 Mac & Posh Amanda Miller aged 19 Started 02/09/13 – 25 hours per week Amanda was employed with Mac and Posh as an events co-ordinator, this was on a part-time contract of 25 hours per week to allow the owners of the business to concentrate on other aspects of the business. Amanda has proved to be a huge asset to the business and as of 28/02/14 has been given a permanent contract. During a follow up call, the co-owner of Mac and Posh Tracy Miller said “ this incentive has been absolutely fantastic and without it we could not have employed Amanda, it’s been invaluable, the whole process has been brilliant from start to finish, I can’t recommend it highly enough and I would be more than happy to give a testimonial to highlight how good this incentive is”.

McNabs LLP Rebecca Ellwood aged 24 Started 19/08/13 – Paralegal – 37.5 hours Sarah Mitchell aged 24 Started 02/09/13 – Trainee solicitor –37.5 hours Jozef Bywalec aged 19 Started 02/09/13 –Office Junior – 37 hours Gary Sutherland (Partner of McNabs LLP) contacted Perth & Kinross Council’s Employability Officer Lynn Webster, following an email he received regarding the funding and explained that the company were starting a traineeship Academy and were very interested in the YES Fund initiative, this enabled them to recruit Rebecca and Sarah on the academy as Trainee Paralegal and Trainee Solicitor. During their 26 weeks both employees have undertaken various accredited training associated with their roles, which has been funded solely by Perth & Kinross Council.

As of 14/02/14 and 28/02/14 respectively Rebecca and Sarah have been offered full time permanent contracts as Trainee Solicitors with McNabs, Jozef has found alternative employment with a Perth & Kinross Sherriff Officer on an ad hoc basis and is looking to train as a Sheriff Officer in the coming years.

Gary said “without the funding opportunity, we as a company wouldn’t have had the confidence to employee these young people, it has been and excellent incentive and has allowed us to increase our workforce, the 26 weeks has also given Rebecca and Sarah excellent grounding for their roles moving forward”. Gary’s experience of this funding has been very positive and he has indicated should funding be available 2014/2015 he would be very interested in taking on more Trainees.

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Marketing Masterclass - A series of three interactive marketing sessions designed for SMEs. The goal to educate managers and owners in the wider discipline of marketing. Businesses will design a marketing strategy and plan aligned to their own business aspirations.

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The Angels Share – Continuation of our successful entrepreneur / investor matching service. Four pitching events annually, plus 2 educational events event.

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Collaboration workshops - 2 per month over 10 months Encouraging the proven benefits of working together for increased sales and reduced costs throughout Perth & Kinross.

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Consultants collaboration - 2 per annum. As above, targeting consultants and professionals to work together.

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Collaborative Board Sessions - Resulting from the above, two workshops with the aim of getting people with different skill sets to work on each other’s businesses. These sessions will only be initial “enabling” programmes thereafter clients will go it alone. Two workshops in each area PA.

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Sales & Marketing Skills Programme - A series of two interactive sessions which will assist SMEs to achieve greater sales, covering basic presentation through to structured selling. Target audience is staff actively involved in sales for the company.

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Selling Skills for the Non Sales person - As above but targeted at employees not actively engaged in direct selling for their companies.

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Monthly Export Workshops – Breakfast workshop on the last Wednesday of each month to encourage companies in P&K to consider exporting. SDI will then be brought in to provide the detailed knowledge.

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Social / digital Media Workshops - To be outsourced.

Two classes per month circa £350 per session. £7,000 (Note: College / ENET already providing service locally)

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Business & Enterprise Month -– Building on the highly successful Business week in 2012 we were joined by Business Gateway (ENET), Perth College UHI, Scottish Enterprise, Perth Chamber of Commerce and the Federation of Small Businesses for Business Month in 2013. We plan to improve on this with a larger, targeted event in 2014.

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Customer Service Skills Workshop – A series of workshops throughout P&K to promote improved service within local businesses.

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Moving into Management Overview – An educational programme designed for employees looking to move into management and businesses with candidates they see as future Management prospects.

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A range of purchasing / procurement workshops.

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Range of training for Speciality Retailers – on-line selling/ Marketing workshops

For more information, please visit www.perth-and-kinross-business-calendar.co.uk

NEW MEMBER PROFILES

Oakbank Financial Services Oakbank Financial Ser vices was established by Allan Campbell and Ray Faherty in April 2010. Their aim was to build an Independent Financial Advisory firm equipped to deal with changing client needs and evolving legislation.

OAKBANK FINANCIAL SERVICES LTD 9 Charlotte Street, Perth PH1 5LW Tel: 01738 440690 Email: ray@oakbankfs.com Web: www.oakbankfs.com Contact: Ray Faherty

They have offices in both Perth and Pitlochry, mainly dealing with Pensions, Investments and Life Insurance. This incorporates long term planning, meeting short term needs and preparing, as much as possible, for unforseen events.

In October 2013, they opened a new, larger office in Charlotte

Street, Perth. This further establishes their local presence, close to a number of local Solicitors and Accountants with whom they share a number of mutual clients.

The prominence of Financial Services in the news agenda - and constantly changing legislation - have made the role of an IFA increasingly important to everyone.

The business ethos is to provide a service tailored to meet clients’ requirements. This usually incorporates face to face meetings in either the Perth or Pitlochry offices, but with full online support and access to up to date

information through secure access via their website.

Between them, Allan and Ray have over 50 years experience in Financial Services, much of it based locally. Aided by excellent support staff and the use of up to date technology, they intend to continually build a business to meet the needs of current and future clients.

Oakbank Financial Services are Authorised and Regulated by the The Financial Conduct Authority.

The Time Angel Based in Perth, The Time Angel provides administration support for businesses throughout Perthshire. It is the ideal solution for those who may not want the expense of employing permanent support staff.

THE TIME ANGEL Gloagburn Roadside Cottage Tibbermore, Perth PH1 1QL Tel: 07753685510 Email: alison@thetimeangel.co.uk Web: www.thetimeangel.co.uk Contact: Alison Gibb

Alison (The Time Angel) has over 15 years administration experience as a PA at Director level. The Time Angel is therefore perfectly capable of taking on a wide range of duties.

Be it handling correspondence, dealing with expenses or assisting with social media, having a sound knowledge of Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint and the internet, The Time Angel can help your business in many ways.

The Time Angel can deal with correspondence and social media presence while you are on holiday or away from your office for any other reason. At a time when employing staff can be difficult and expensive, The Time Angel can be the solution as you are only paying for the hours worked, thus ensuring that you are not adding to your outgoings by paying staff unnecessarily.

Whether you need help on a regular basis or just for a particular project and with confidentiality guaranteed, The Time Angel allows you the freedom to concentrate on developing your business.

Contact alison@thtimeangel. co.uk for a free hour consultation to discuss the benefits to your business.

Perhaps you want to promote your business with a mail shot or the expenses have been put to the bottom of the pile to be done another day, or you need to reorganise your office, then let The Time Angel help.

Promotional Products Ltd Increase your brand loyalty with Promotional Products Ltd.

PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS Ruthvenfield Grove Inveralmond Industrial Estate, Perth PH1 3FN Tel: 01738 639222 Email: sales@allpromotionalproducts.co.uk Web: www.allpromotionalproducts.co.uk Contact: Samantha Barrie

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This new Chamber member sources the best promotional merchandise for their customers’ needs. The management team has over 100 years experience in the corporate gift market (via sister company Highland Fayre Ltd), and provides expert advice on the best solutions.

An extension of your marketing team, they source any promotional product no matter how big or small the requirement and for whatever purpose (i.e. customer/ employee recognition, trade shows, promotional events, new product launches, raising brand awareness, effective targeting or stimulating sales). With tens of thousands of products at their disposal they are sure to have something for you!

There is no enquiry that they will not cater for and by providing all branding methods (i.e. embroidery, screen and pad printing) they uphold their promise to make your promotional products one of a kind.

In addition, Promotional Products Ltd offer a storage and fulfillment service from their 15,000 sq ft premises at Inveralmond Industrial Estate, Perth, allowing customers with a large range of promotional products to sub-contract their

THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

fulfillment requirements, managing stock and despatching orders on behalf of their customers.

They are also proud to be an Accredited Member of the BPMA (British Promotional Merchandise Association). BPMA is one of the UK’s leading industry bodies dedicated to promoting the best practice around the sourcing, manufacturing and distribution of promotional products.

NEW MEMBER PROFILES

MDG Group

MDG GROUP King James VI Business Centre Friarton Road, Perth PH2 8DY Tel: 0845 128 4888 Email: mail@mdggroup.co.uk Web: www.mdggroup.co.uk Contact: Douglas Reid

Founded in 1998, MDG Group are business cost consultants whose service identifies and recommends optimum-value gas, electricity, water and telecoms contracts that allow businesses to reduce operational costs and maximise profit. Their specialist knowledge and years of experience make MDG Group the cost management leaders they are today. Their firstclass customer service has resulted in a client retention rate of more than 99% and at least 95% of all new clients being referred to them.

existing contracts. Your advisor will assess the marketplace and in line with your business requirements, present the exact financial benefit that can be achieved through their contract management services.

Should you wish to proceed with their recommendations, their fee is charged as a small proportion of the savings they have made you, meaning you are cash positive from the outset. All contract administration is taken care of, allowing you to focus on your core business tasks.

After a face-to-face consultation at your preferred location, their experienced professionals carry out a full, no obligation review of your

As an independent consultancy, MDG Group are not affiliated with any suppliers. They focus

on accessing the lowest possible market prices for your business from an objective standpoint and that means being impartial, always.

The rising trend among savvy business owners to outsource contract management means more businesses are benefitting from the exclusive rates only a cost management service like MDG Group can secure them.

To speak to one of their experienced advisors about your business cost management needs, get in touch today by calling 0845 128 4888.

Your Accounts2 YOUR ACCOUNTS² is an accountancy firm based in Perth which has practiced for 19 years offering all the services you would expect, and much more.

YOU ACCOUNTS SQUARED LTD 2 Marshall Place, Perth PH2 8AH Tel:01738 636000 Email: info@youraccounts2.co.uk Web: www.youraccounts2.co.uk Contact: Scott Sturrock

Specialising in the Retail Sector throughout Scotland and mostly gaining clients via word of mouth, Your Accounts2 offer not only accountancy experience but real business experience in the retail and licensed trade sectors.

For Newsagents & Convenience Stores they provide an unrivalled VAT service looking at all available VAT Retail Schemes potentially providing large savings, and also avoiding future problems. With

accurate quarterly reporting and review procedures this gives clients information and peace of mind.

In addition, for Bars, Restaurants and all other Retailers, simple record-keeping systems to assist controlling cash and overheads can be provided.

Why are YOUR ACCOUNTS2 different?

• Fees are agreed in advance and are guaranteed for 12 months • Retail Specialists • Collect and return clients’ records • Included for VAT Clients attend HMRC VAT visits

What guides the business?

“We all work so we can live, not the other way round. We understand that business people work many hours, so it is difficult to find time to keep records and concentrate on finances.

That’s where we come in.

We want our clients’ lives to be as stress free and profitable as possible.

Our guiding principle is: Pay unto Caesar that which is Caesar’s …… but not a penny more!”

LifeRunner

LifeRunner Personal . Practical . Professional

LIFERUNNER Eastermoss, Balgowan, by Methven, Perth PH1 3RG Tel: 07780 585340 Email: angus@liferunner.co.uk Web: www.liferunner.co.uk Contact: Angus Mill

Supporting both businesses and private individuals, LifeRunner offers a range of Handyman Services and Lifestyle Management solutions - a personalised flexible service for people who are simply too busy to get everything done whether in the office, at home, on holiday or when entertaining. Services include: garden and property maintenance, pressure washing services, errand running, event management, property management and travel arrangements.

LifeRunner Handyman Services offer help with any small job around the home or garden as well as larger landscape gardening

projects and general property maintenance. Their Pressure Washing service, for example, has proved extremely popular helping to make properties cleaner and safer. LifeRunner is part of the Better Business Partnership (BBP) Perth and Kinross.

LifeRunner Lifestyle Management operates across Scotland, and offers personalised solutions to people who simply don’t have time in their busy lives and need some extra help to take the stress out of modern living. The founder of LifeRunner, Angus Mill says: “We help you to tick off all those jobs on that to do list – we can be your mobile PA service at the end of the telephone

ready to help-Personal, Practical and Professional.

“We have been well supported over the past three years by the wider Perth community and were fortunate to receive a business growth grant from PKC which gave us a platform from which to develop further opportunities and raised our profile. We are proud to be part of the Perthshire Chamber of Commerce and look forward to engaging with all the members.”

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

NEW MEMBER PROFILES

Blackhills Specialist Dental Referral Clinic

BLACKHILLS SPECIALIST DENTAL CLINIC 5 Maidenplain Place, Aberuthven PH3 1EL Tel: 01764 664446 Email: info@blackhillsclinic.com Web: www.blackhillsclinic.com Contact: Trudie Imrie

Blackhills Clinic is Scotland’s only purpose-built, all-specialist dental referral clinic and is recognised throughout the dental world for the quality and excellence of dental care provided. Since opening seven years ago, 6000 patients have been referred by over 600 dentists across Scotland and from overseas.

Blackhills recently received the award for ‘Best Specialist Referral Clinic’ at the Scottish Dental Awards ceremony.

Blackhills has eight registered specialists, covering all adult dental specialties who work together to provide the highest standards of contemporary, advanced dental treatment. This includes all

aspects of implantology, restorative dentistry, oral surgery, and sedation.

The clinic was one of the first in the UK to have a cone beam CT scanner installed which provides the highest levels of diagnostic information.

Blackhills Clinic is situated on the main A9 dual carriageway, just south of Perth, with plenty of free on-site parking. Patients often comment how easy the journey is to the clinic, being less than one hour from Edinburgh and Glasgow, and only 30 minutes from Dundee.

dental companies often approaching the clinicians to enter into ground-breaking clinical trials which provide patients with some of the latest products, techniques and materials available.

Blackhills Clinic website (www. blackhillsclinic.com) has over 60 patient information treatment videos, patient testimonials and secure, online referring. For more information or to speak with one of our specialists about any aspect of dental care, please contact the clinic.

Blackhills Clinic has a worldwide reputation for its implant treatment, with international

Caledonia Learning & Care (CLC Consultancy) Caledonia Learning & Care (CLC Consultancy) was established by Bill Colley in January 2014 in response to a rise in demand for services for children with learning and behavioural difficulties, or who experience problems with their mental health and wellbeing.

CALEDONIA LEARNING & CARE Atholl Gardens, Dunkeld, Perthshire PH8 0AY Tel: 01350 727537 E-mail: clcconsultancy@btinternet.com Web: www.clcconsultancy.org Contact: Bill Colley

Bill was, until September 2013, a Service Manager with responsibility for Additional Support Needs in a local education authority and before that was Head Teacher of a residential special school - New School, Butterstone.

He has also been a Housemaster and Head of Department in the independent mainstream sector

and currently sits at national level on the National Autism Strategy Reference Group and with the UK ADHD Partnership. He has a particular interest in the issues that arise around the integration of children with additional needs in mainstream schools and both the challenges and opportunities that can arise from ‘Inclusion’.

CLC Consultancy offers a range of services from individual client support for families and schools, to lay advocacy and expert witness reports, project management and professional development for teaching, care staff and managers. Recent commissions

have included a review of on-line training in learning difficulties for GPs, the development of a strategic marketing plan for an independent special school and support to families affected by children with significant learning difficulties. An extensive network of highly skilled associates means that most types of learning difficulty can be assessed and supported and a strong emphasis is placed on collaborative working with parents, teachers and other professionals.

Energy Perspective Energy Perspective work to reduce energy waste. With over 30 years’ experience in an array of energy management and environmental sectors, Energy Perspective is ideally positioned to work with any business to create energy saving strategies bespoke to individual needs.

Energy Perspective Suite 3, Blairgowrie Business Centre 42 Wellmeadow, Blairgowrie PH10 6NQ Tel: 01250 872798 Email: euan@energyperspective.co.uk Web: www.energyperspective.co.uk Contact: Euan Donaldson

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Their energy management team have built a glowing reputation in all sectors by delivering a structured method to energy management.

By adopting a phased approach, savings are gained in the most cost effective manner ensuring that any investments made by our clients to reduce their energy consumption and c ar bon emissions are prequalified to maximise returns.

THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

Phase 1 – Control The first step in any robust energy management programme is to take control of the situation and understand the problem.

Monitoring is often the first step in developing a robust energy management programme. By studying usage figures and trends Energy Pesrpective can then create and implement bespoke energy management strategies and accurately measure and quantify their effectiveness.

Phase 2 – Loadside Energy Perspective’s extensive portfolio of partners allows them to offer a number of products which are relevant to your organisation.

Each of these products will be

supplied with ROI figures and will only be recommended should they be required by the individual site. Energy Perspective will be able to advise which products to install at individual sites based on your carbon reduction or ROI requirements.

Phase 3 – Eliminate Once costs and consumption are under control, Energy Perspective can look to explore the longer term benefits of on-site power generation using the various renewable energy sources.

GI0314-70362

• Luxurious Lodges • Award-winning Restaurant • Whisky Bar • Meeting Room • Delegate rate from £22.50 including room hire • Free Wi-Fi in the Hotel • Indulgent Spa and Leisure Centre • 4 star Hotel Bedrooms Duchally Country Estate, Gleneagles, Auchterarder, Perthshire PH3 1PN Tel: 01764 663071 Email: info@duchally.com www.duchally.co.uk

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Duchally Country Estate is centrally located just off the A9 near Auchterarder, nestled within 27 acres of breathtakingly beautiful Scottish countryside.

Straight Talking Hard Working Forward Thinking 100% Customer Care Attitude

Skip hire (2yd to 16yd) Roll on roll off hire (20yd to 50yd) Recycling Trade waste Road brush hire Composting Compactor hire Wood processing Plant hire Aggregate Top soil Liquid waste disposal Septic tank emptying Agricultural waste

Every local authority and business need a reliable, committed and efficient waste management solution to link recycling, waste minimisation and the best value for money. Binn Waste meet that requirement in every way.

Binn Waste have a strong commitment to our customers old and new. We also put a lot of time, resources and money back into the local community.

With over 14 years experience in the waste industry Binn Waste are one of Scotland’s leading and forward thinking waste management companies focusing on recycling and improving the environment around us.

Binn Farm • Glenfarg • Perthshire PH2 9PX Tel: 01577 830833 Fax: 01577 830488 enquiries@binnskips.co.uk • www.binnwaste.com

SPECIAL FEATURE

Leigh Brown, City Centre Manager

As she approaches her first anniversary in post as Perth City Centre Manager, Leigh Brown reflects on how she came to be here and what has been achieved so far as well as what still needs to be done in one of the most challenging roles in the Fair City.

A

s an experienced retailer with over 15 years’ experience of working in the retail trade in both multinational and independently owned businesses, I hope that I have some empathy with the retailers that make up the great offering in our Fair City.

Whilst I was working in retail I progressed my interests in training and education, delivering training for staff and managers. This interest in staff development led me to accept a position as a lecturer in retail and economics at Dundee College. In turn this lead to a role with Scotland’s Colleges leading on an initiative supporting enterprise and entrepreneurship within the college sector. Or more simply how do we encourage and help more people to start their own businesses?

Listening to the business ideas that people had, which were predominantly social and community focussed - and the mismatch between these and the traditional businesses that we see on our high streets - led me to look more closely at how the High Street is changing. The Carnegie UK Trust was also starting to look at this about the same time so

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

I found myself working with them on the development of TestTown. This competition, the largest of its kind in the UK, encouraged young entrepreneurs aged 16 to 30 to create innovative new businesses to help bring energy back to flagging town centres. Over 550 young people applied, with 11 teams finally taking part in a weekendlong challenge in Dunfermline.

TestTown showed me that regeneration of the High Street is about more than getting vacant units filled. It is about changing the perceptions of the community, having businesses that are open at times that people want to shop, establishing a sense of community amongst residents and business owners and creating a place that encourages a civic pride. Footfall can be developed by encouraging more people to live within the city centre. A busy city centre during the day and night also helps to encourage visitors as well as creating a great place to live and work.

I am lucky enough to be involved with a great team of people in the Regeneration Team of the Environment Service within Perth and Kinross Council and my role is

SPECIAL FEATURE

varied covering a number of strands of activity including digital engagement, business community development, city dressing and regeneration. The aim of all of these is to support footfall growth and economic development. The city plan outlines the city’s aspirations to be a modern, dynamic, international city.

Having grown up in the Carse of Gowrie and with family businesses in Perth, I think this is a really exciting time to be involved in shaping the Perth of the future. We are on a journey from a market town to being a market city.

To date we have seen an improvement in the vacancy rate across the city, supported by the work of the Invest In Perth team at the council. To further enhance the look of the city centre we have used window vinyls to improve the appearance of long term vacant units. Poster sites have also helped dress some previously run down areas such as the Clachan pub on South Methven Street. The poster sites have helped to reduce the instances of fly posting and we work closely with the unpaid work team to help remove graffiti and enhance the appearance of the vennels. We plan to continue to develop these initiatives next year.

Perth has a unique independent retail sector with over 50% of its retail businesses being independently owned. This is Perth’s unique selling feature and one that we hope to develop. Our successful Independent Retailers campaign last July, which saw Tayberry Gallery crowned as the public’s favourite independent retailer, will be run again this year with a chance for folk to vote for their favourite eatery. We are also lucky to have independently owned pubs with the Old Ship Inn being a finalist in this year’s Best Bar None awards for Independent pub. We are also helping the independent businesses produce and distribute

their Independent Shopping Guide. We will be aiming to encourage shoppers in the Fair City to shop local. The strong Farmers Market shows that Perth shoppers already understand the benefits of buying directly from producers.

Events in the City centre help to raise awareness of the city and provide entertainment for residents and visitors alike. Last year we held a number of successful events that helped the local economy such as the Kilt Run and the festive Light Switch On. We are planning to develop more of these events over 2014 and to enhance existing events that already attract visitors to the city.

We have developed our social media presence and have been working to develop new digital apps and websites that give local businesses a chance to highlight what they do and any offers or activities that they have running.

The launch of free public wifi in the city and improved broadband capacity for businesses will help to enhance how residents and visitors can engage with digital information whilst in Perth.

These are just a few of the key highlights over the next year. However none of these can be done alone and we work in partnership with our colleagues in the council to look at projects such as the redevelopment of Mill Street, to enhance the city.

Support from local businesses is also vital to our success.

Without their support and feedback then we will never develop a community within the city. We are also working towards achieving a number of accreditation schemes such as World Host and Purple Flag for the city. We hope that this will help to make Perth the most desirable place in Scotland to live, work, visit and invest.

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

Office TO LET SALTIRE HOUSE Office WHITEFRIARS BUSINESS PARK TO LET SALTIRE HOUSE PERTH PH2 0PA Office WHITEFRIARS BUSINESS PARK SALTIRE HOUSE PERTH PH2 PARK 0PA WHITEFRIARS BUSINESS

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Business Park location on•edge ••Business location Business Park location on 230.9 sqPark m (2,485 sqonft)the the edge ofsq the Centre of the City Centre the edge of the City Centre up to 694.4 m City (7,474 sq ft) • Suites from approximately ••Suites approximately Suitesfrom from approximately 230.9 sq m (2,485 sq ft) up to 230.9 sq m (2,485 sq ft) sq m (2,485 sq ft) up to 694.4 sq m (7,474 • 230.9 36 dedicated car park 694.4 sq m (7,474 sq ft) spaces available up to 694.4 sq m (7,474

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3 Charlotte Street, Perth PH1 5LWPH1 46 North46 Castle Street, Edinburgh EH2 3BN EH2 3BN 3 Charlotte Street, Perth North Castle Street, Edinburgh 3 Charlotte Street,5LW Perth PH1 5LW 46 North Castle Street, Edinburgh EH2 3BN

T: 01738T: 445 733 445 E: kscobbie@g-s.co.uk T: 0131 225 E:0131 iain.taylor@ryden.co.uk 01738 733 T: E:01738 kscobbie@g-s.co.uk T:6612 0131 225 6612 E: iain.taylor@ryden.co.uk 445 733 E: kscobbie@g-s.co.uk T: 225 6612 E: iain.taylor@ryden.co.uk www.g-s.co.uk www.ryden.co.uk www.g-s.co.uk www.ryden.co.uk www.g-s.co.uk www.ryden.co.uk

surrounding occupiers also include Perth & Enjoying an excellent business location within Saltire House is a development undertaken by 3 Charlotte Street, Perth PH1 5LW 46 North Castle Street, Edinburgh EH2 3BN easy walking distance of Perth City centre and Kinross Council, SEPA and Blackhorse Finance.

C. & W. Assets Ltd the property holding arm T: 01738 445 733 E: Akscobbie@g-s.co.uk T: 0131 225 6612 E: iain.taylor@ryden.co.uk V I A N only minutes from the City Bypass, Saltire Keith Scobbie, Partner of Graham + Sibbald of J. Smart & Co. (Contractors) PLC. www.g-s.co.uk www.ryden.co.uk A V I A N House provides an ideal environment for and joint lettingPUBLICATION: agent adds is aofunique Perth“this Chamber Commerce a variety of businesses. Existing occupiers opportunity local market, providing a For further information or to arrange PUBLICATION: Perth Chamberinofthe Commerce SIZE: 137mm h x 190mm w (1/2page) include Enterprise North East Trust and new building, delivering high quality open a viewing contact Letting Agents, MONO SPOT FULL COLOUR 137mm h x 190mm w (1/2page) Perthshire Chamber of Commerce,SIZE: whilst plan offices, in an established location”.

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erce m m o c IN 2013 • WINTER ISSUE 20

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Registering as self-employed Register as self-employed if starting your own business or you could find yourself in trouble with HMRC. Business partnership

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Do you need to register a trade mark?

No. Pick your business name, design your logo and, once trading, those will be your trademarks. Registering gives added protection, but isn’t a legal requirement.

Selling stuff?

If running a food business, it’s vital you register your premises, which must be done at least 28 days in advance.

You can be fined, or even imprisoned, if you don’t. You need a licence before selling alcohol. If doing business online familiarise yourself with the Distance Selling Regulations.

Newlands House, Main Street Bridgend, Perth Also at 20 Atholl Street, Perth 36 Priory Place, Craigie, Perth 62 High Street, Crieff

The law defines a partnership as any two or more people in business together for profit, helpful because it makes things simple, but dangerous because you can find yourself unintendedly subject to partnership laws. Avoid difficulties by signing a partnership agreement when founding a business which is going to trade as a partnership.

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By Ryan Bowie, Associate, Gillespie Macandrew LLP Ryan.Bowie@gillespiemacandrew.co.uk Tel. 01738 231000

Ryan Bowie, Associate, Gillespie Macandrew LLP

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

FOOD & DRINK

Raise a glass to Homecoming Scotland

T

his year’s Homecoming Scotland celebrations have proved a useful marketing platform for a wealth of enterprising businesses. One of the first and most successful companies to jump aboard the Homecoming bandwagon was Perth-based Inveralmond Brewery, whose commemorative ale has gone global.

InCommerce finds out more.

Homecoming Scotland celebrations are already proving to be a coming of age for the trail-blazing 18-year-old Inveralmond Brewery. One of the very first Scottish businesses to lead the way in a dynamic partnership arrangement with VisitScotland marking the national Homecoming celebrations, this small but highly innovative operation will see their commemorative craft beer “Homecoming Scotland” featured at key Homecoming Scotland 2014 events, catapulting the brewery’s already growing global reputation onto a global platform.

The beer, which has been developed by Inveralmond Brewery’s Head Brewer Ken Duncan, is described as “an exuberant ale which displays berry sweetness on the palate and aromatic hoppiness, crafted to encapsulate the energy and presence of our incredible nation in 2014”.

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

For Ken, the prospect of developing a Homecoming product designed to encapsulate the best of what Scotland has to offer was a unique challenge.

Ken explained: “We are very lucky that Inveralmond Brewery already has superior resources at our disposal, not just in the technology we use, but almost a century’s collective brewing expertise and, of course, the soft Highland waters of the Perthshire hills. We’re wellequipped to craft an artisanal product that we felt would capture the effervescence of Scotland.

“This brew displays an elegant, aromatic hoppiness, and berry sweetness on the palate which communicates the energy and presence of our incredible nation. I feel it’s a toast worthy of such great sporting events as the Ryder Cup and Commonwealth Games.”

And after an exclusive preview sampling at Holyrood in November, it has already started to spread that “hoppiness” around the world, with Miss Scotland raising a glass to the first delivery of the beer to arrive in Edinburgh and Hollywood superstar and PETA supporter Alan Cumming posing for a “selfie” with the bottled beer, which is also suitable for vegans. Available in craft keg, cask and 330 ml bottle, orders for the commemorative brew are currently flowing in from on and off trade customers across the country and, as with all good business stories, the brewery has geared up to satisfy burgeoning market demand, investing a sixfigure sum in more efficient production equipment to enable the company to explore and develop new markets.

But it isn’t just the beer that had to capture the essence of Homecoming, the marketing and design department had their

FOOD & DRINK

work cut out for them in developing a label that was mindful of the national brand, as well as effectively stamping Inveralmond’s mark onto the bottle.

Bob Hogg, the firm’s Commercial Director, headed up the process: “It was a bit of a challenge on the branding front but in the end we felt that the prominence of the Homecoming brand was key to the positioning of the beer and Inveralmond Brewery’s logo sits neatly at the top. When it came to the brand colours, our blue and white neatly merged with Homecoming’s colour scheme to create a label that is both iconically Scottish, as well as distinctively Inveralmond Brewery.”

And Bob fully expects the collaboration with Homecoming Scotland will open new doors for the brewery: “The collaboration has already proven fruitful. As one of the first businesses, and the only brewery to partner Homecoming 2014, Inveralmond has already enjoyed significant presence at various Scotland-wide Homecoming events showcasing the product to the Scottish tourism industry, including the official Homecoming launch in the Scottish Parliament in November. Extensive print coverage of the partnership has yielded strong initial uptake, and we anticipate the coming months can only bring further opportunities for Homecoming beer, with the buzz surrounding both the Ryder Cup and the Commonwealth games ensuring brand Homecoming will remain on everyone’s lips until 2015.

“It’s important that we are able to take advantage of opportunities like Homecoming Scotland and last year we installed three new multi-purpose conditioning tanks, a new refrigeration plant, and a new keg cleaner and filler, all of which has increased our production capabilities at our Inveralmond location by more than 20%. We’ve further expanded capacity this year by commissioning three giant, 5,000 litre vessels and we expect delivery of two, 22 tonne malt silos in early March.”

Staff numbers have also jumped by almost 40% since February last year, proving the investment’s long term worth, both in the growth of the business and its long term impact on the local economy.

Inveralmond Brewery’s craft beer range includes Ossian, Lia Fail, Sunburst and Thrappledouser - all now found in most major supermarkets, as well as in continental Europe, Americas and Asia Pacific as the result of successful export programmes.

The brewery recently signed an export deal with one of Russia’s leading distributors Elizabet who have taken on the distribution of four of their top selling brands, as well as the Homecoming Scotland commemorative brew, a move that is expected to have a significant positive impact on the business’s quality of earnings.

Although beer used to be considered a “soft” drink in the Russian market, and is considerably dwarfed by the spirits market, it is now a rapidly growing sector and the chance to get in on the ground as a premium Scottish product appealed to the firm.

Fergus Clark, Managing Director of Inveralmond Brewery, commented: “2013 was a big year for the Brewery and we are rising to the opportunity. Our 18th birthday is coming up soon and it really does feel as if it is a coming of age for us.

We are truly delighted to be partnering with Homecoming Scotland 2014 with our limited edition commemorative beer which is already proving to be very popular with orders coming in from

on and off trade outlets across the country. It’s not just Scotland who are ordering the beer though, we’ve already shipped orders to events in Milan and Hamburg on the back of the international press coverage around the launch of the celebrations, with new orders coming in every day.

“Opportunities like Homecoming Scotland 2014 give home grown Scottish companies genuine prominence on an international stage and we’re very proud to know that our beer will be showcased as one of Scotland’s premium export products throughout the year.

VisitScotland were extremely open to working with us on this and have been hugely supportive in helping it come to fruition.”

Caroline Packman, Director of Homecoming Scotland 2014 said: “The team at Inveralmond Brewery has truly embraced the opportunities which this year will bring, not just for events, but also businesses and organisations. The creation of a dedicated Homecoming Scotland beer is a fantastic example of how businesses can pro-actively reap the rewards from being involved with 2014 - the year that Scotland welcomes the world. In this, the second Year of Homecoming, we’re calling on other Scottish businesses to get involved and to help Scotland show the world the quality of our produce, our creativity and our natural assets, all of which are certainly worth toasting.”

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

MURRAYSHALL Murrayshall HOUSE House HOTEL Hotel & GOLF Golf COURSES Courses

Set within our own 350 acre estate, Murrayshall boasts a 41 bedroom 4 star hotel with two restaurants and two 18 holes golf courses. Our luxurious rooms, relaxing lounges and award winning food, complemented by two great courses, makes an ideal venue for your golfing break. For groups we can offer private dining facilities and for companies, event management for your golf day.

Offers so good you will want to keep them to yourself… if you can!

Golf & Roast Enjoy 18 holes of golf over either of our two golf courses followed by a traditional roast platter from £20.00 pp.

MARCH/APRIL £20.00 Lynedoch or £25.00 Murrayshall MAY/JUNE £40.00 Lynedoch or £60.00 Murrayshall JULY £30.00 Lynedoch or £40.00 Murrayshall AUGUST/SEPTEMBER £40.00 Lynedoch or £60.00 Murrayshall

Residential Golf Breaks Escape to Murrayshall, a luxury four star country house hotel set within 350 acres of beautiful Perthshire country side. Surrounded by two 18 hole golf courses, Murrayshall is the ideal choice for a relaxing few days of good food, excellent golf at a stunning location.

From £120.00 per person per night, inclusive of a three course dinner in the Stutts Bar, bed and breakfast and one round of golf per nights stay. Valid until 30th September 2014.

One free place in every 12 golfers in your party

Golf Days We have a number of catering inclusive packages available for groups of 8 or more players, played over either or both courses on the same day from £40.00 per person.

One free place in every 8 golfers in your party

To book your next golf event at Murrayshall contact us on 01738 551 171 or

golf@murrayshall.co.uk Murrayshall House Hotel & Golf Courses, Scone, Perthshire PH2 7PH

www.murrayshall.co.uk

R

sions

LIFESTYLE lifEsTylE

P PREMIER V erth’s

DRAM DrAM GOOD gOOD FESTIVALS FeSTiVALS

enue

Special Occasions

P PREMIER V

Hospitality

Corporate Events

McDiarMiD Park eople in Perthshire are being asked to raise a dram and

P

erth’s

www.mcdiarmidpark.co.uk help celebrate our national drink at three new Whisky www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk Festivals being staged in the Big County in May.

Call 01738 459090 Scotland’s Whisky Month - which forms part of the Year year of

enue

Special Hospitality Occasions Hospitality Corporate Events Corporate Events McDiarMiD Park

Homecoming - is expected to attract around 70,000 visitors keen to join in the celebration of one of Scotland’s most iconic products. And two Perthshire events will be doing their best to attract many of those visitors to the home of some of the country’s landmark distilleries.

The Exel exel Home of Whisky Festival takes place on May 3 and features dram tasting experiences showcasing whiskies from both Perthshire and beyond.

www.mcdiarmidpark.co.uk

McDiarMiDwww.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk Park Call 01738 459090 www.mcdiarmidpark.co.uk www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk

Call 01738 459090

Galmisdale Bay • Isle of Eigg Delicious home cooked snacks and meals served from 10am till late in the spectacular surroundings of Eigg Harbour. We are open 7 days per week, and we invariably have local seafood available.

Please book dinner by 4.30 if possible.

Bar open all day, every day.

Well stocked shop, craftshop, bike hire, new showers Contact Stuart Fergusson on

01687 482487

Then from May 23-25 attention turns to the Highland Perthshire “Tummel and Tay Whisky Festival” when Birnam Arts, the Birks Cinema in Aberfeldy and Pitlochry Festival Theatre join forces to create a “dram-tastic” programme featuring films, films, food festival, exhibitions and talks with a distinctly whisky flavour. flavour.

The use of whisky in cooking will be celebrated when Tom Kitchin guests at The Famous Feastival at The Famous Grouse grouse Experience experience beginning May 25th. This new event is a celebration of food, whisky, chocolate and music, held at Scotland’s Oldest whisky distillery, The Glenturret. glenturret.

And World Whisky Day on May 17 allows us another chance to enjoy our favourite “uisge beatha”.

VisitScotland regional director Richard richard Pinn said that the events based locally would offer visitors a great opportunity to enjoy Whisky Month in Perthshire.

Scottish Rural rural Affairs Secretary Richard richard Lochhead said that whisky was one of Scotland’s most iconic products, enjoyed in more than 170 countries across the globe.

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SHIRE THE PERTH

BER CHAM

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Doing business without advertising is like winking at a girl in the dark. You know what you are doing, but nobody Steuart Henderson Britt else does. ✓ FREE Quality Publication ✓ Targeted Distribution

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“Homecoming Whisky Month is the perfect opportunity to celebrate and shine a light on the quality, provenance, traditions and innovations that go into our national drink.”

So why not support our local whisky festivals where you can. Cheers!

For for details of Whisky whisky Month visit www.homecomingscotland.com/whiskymonth

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THE THe PERTHSHIRE PerTHSHire CHAMBER CHAMBer OF COMMERCE COMMerCe BUSINESS BUSineSS MAGAZINE MAgAZine • SPRING SPring 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

EVENTS 2014 MAY Wednesday 28th May

Presenting For Professionals

5.00pm - 8.00pm

Saltire House

Perth

Tuesday 3rd June

Networking Breakfast

7.30am - 8.45am

The Black Watch Castle & Museum

Perth

Monday 9th June

Independence Debate with Better Together and Yes Scotland

6.30pm - 8.30pm

Salultation Hotel

Perth

Wednesday 25th June

PKC Procurement one-to-one surgeries

9.30am - 4.30pm

Saltire House

Perth

Monday 30th June

PCC Board Meeting*

5.30pm - 7.00pm

Closed Meeting

Networking Lunch Event

12noon - 2.30pm

Ballathie House Hotel

JUNE

JULY Tuesday 8th July

Stanley

AUGUST Friday 1st & Saturday 2nd Networking Breakfast

8.00am - 10.00am Perth Show, South Inch

Perth

Thursday 21st August

Networking Lunch

12noon

Blair Castle Horse Trials

Blair Atholl

Monday 25th August

PCC Board Meeting*

5.30pm - 7.00pm

Closed Meeting

Tuesday 26th August

Annual Chamber Golf Day 2014

Daytime Event

Blairgowrie Golf Club, Rosemount Course

Blairgowrie

Tuesday 9th September

Networking Breakfast

7.30am - 8.45am

Huntingtower Hotel

Perth

Wednesday 10th September

PKC Procurement one-to-one surgeries

9.30am - 4.30pm

Saltire House

Perth

Annual Dinner and Business Star Awards 2014

Evening Event

Crieff Hydro

Crieff

SEPTEMBER

DATE FOR DIARY Friday 21st November

*Closed meeting but members are welcome to submit issues they wish to have raised

Chamber Professional Development Programme We kick off this series of training events with our “Presenting for Professionals”. These are specialist courses designed and delivered on behalf of Perthshire Chamber of Commerce

by Gary Robinson.

Gary is a highly experienced Managing Director with 23 years experience as a Presenter and Broadcaster. He is also experienced in Change Management, Developing Talent and a fully qualified Executive and Personal Coach (Institute of Leadership and Management).

ALL COURSES

Venue: Perthshire Chamber of Commerce, Saltire House, 3 Whitefriars Crescent, Perth, PH2 0PA Time: 5pm – 8pm Cost: Members £130 Non-members: £160 Date: Wednesday 28th May Presenting for Professionals • Your individual presentation style including voice, stage presence and enthusiasm • How to control nerves • How to address an audience of two to two hundred

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THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

• What (and what not to do) with Power Point • Understanding your Audience • You will have the opportunity to rehearse a crucial presentation, have it reviewed and fine-tuned which will ensure your presentation style will stand-out from the competition.

These courses are absolutely bespoke and designed for individual, teams and business needs alike.

They are designed to not interfere with the working day and developed and delivered by an experienced business leader with extensive broadcast and presentation experience. They are planned to be highly enjoyable with no role-play! They are designed to make individuals THINK and reflect on their performance and contribution within the organisation.

Places are limited so book through the Chamber office now to avoid disappointment.

Tel: 01738 448325 Email: events@perthshirechamber.co.uk

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MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS

T

he Chamber is an independent, voluntary, non-profit making, nonpolitical business organisation dedicated to the furtherance of members’ interests. It is the largest private sector business support organisation in Britain.

The Perthshire Chamber of Commerce has a voluntary Board of Directors from all over Perthshire and a wide range of business sectors.

rship Membe s Benefit

Perthshire Chamber has two paid full-time members of staff including Chief Executive, Vicki Unite, based at the Chamber’s office at the Perth Business Centre, Saltire House, 3 Whitefriars Crescent, Perth, PH2 0PA.

CHAMBER SERVICES THE CHAMBER HR service provides businesses with access to professional HR advice and a raft of documentation including contracts and staff handbooks.

CHAMBER TRAINING COURSES Chamber members can take advantage of great rates through the Chamber’s exclusive training opportunities.

CHAMBER LEGAL EXPENSES AND 24 HOUR LEGAL HELPLINE Safeguard your business against the unexpected costs of professional legal services and get legal cover of up to £670,000 as well as access to a 24/7 helpline.

SCOTTISH CHAMBERS FOREIGN EXCHANGE Scottish Chambers FX has direct access to the 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.

CHAMBER MERCHANT SERVICES Process debit and credit card payments with discounted transaction fees, reduced terminal hire costs and no service fees.

CHAMBER HEALTHCARE Help to reduce sickness absence and improve staff motivation with a choice of two great schemes.

CHAMBER ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE Receive up to 61% on the cost of breakdown cover (for members of participating accredited Chambers only).

CHAMBER FINANCE In partnership with RBS / NatWest we are able to offer 3 years free business banking for start ups, one year free business banking for those that switch accounts, discounted rates with RBS Invoice Finance.

BUSINESS MENTORING Business Mentoring is a free service for Chamber members to link those looking for a mentor with those wishing to support new, local businesses and use their extensive business experience by mentoring another.

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. What’s more, they can claim R&D tax relief on expenditure that’s up to three years old.

CHAMBER EVENTS Events include: Regular lunch and early evening events, monthly networking breakfasts, annual golf day and annual Business Star Awards. Plus many more including procurement and training events REPRESENTATION The Chamber is represented on a variety of organisations and committees. It has regular meetings with the 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. PCC is affiliated to British and Scottish Chambers of Commerce and through the latter’s Council ensures that Perth & Kinross issues get heard at national level.

How much is Chamber membership worth now?

ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTIONS

46

CATEGORY

SIZE OF BUSINESS

RATE

BAND A BAND B BAND C BAND D BAND E BAND F BAND G

1-5 EMPLOYEES 6-10 EMPLOYEES 11-25 EMPLOYEES 26-50 EMPLOYEES 51-100 EMPLOYEES 101-250 EMPLOYEES OVER 250 EMPLOYEES

£ 139 £ 165 £ 207 £ 260 £ 384 £ 480 £ 526

VAT

TOTAL INC VAT £ 27.80 £ 166.80 £ 33.00 £ 198.00 £ 41.40 £ 248.40 £ 52.00 £ 312.00 £ 76.80 £ 460.80 £ 96.00 £ 576.00 £ 105.20 £ 631.20

THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SPRING 2014 www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

Contact the Chamber office on 01738 448325 or email info@perthshirechamber.co.uk for further details on any of the above or refer to the website www.perthshirechamber.co.uk

fairways

Est. 1984

Working with you - for you

01738 632 561

hr business support and recruitment specialists

Working with you - for you

with compliments Fairways Recruitment (Scotland) Limited Balmoral Suite, Royal British House, Leonard Street, Perth PH2 8HA

t • 01738 632561 f • 01738 639086 e • admin@fairways-uk.com w • www.fairways-uk.com Registered in Scotland No: SC195669 VAT Registration No: 502 9493 48

HR Business Support Services

Recruitment

E

nsuring organisations remain legally compliant with their HR and employment responsibilities, we provide practical cost effective help and support to SME's to improve organisational performance and productivity

O

ur skilled Consultants have the perfect cost effective recruitment solutions for your business as we supply organisations across all industries with high quality staffing solutions for Permanent, Temporary and Contract staff recruitment.

Working with you - for you, we

Working with you - for you, we

Deal with and resolve complex Discipline and Absence Management issues

Offer Competitive rates and added value services to suit your needs

Prepare Contracts of Employment, Employee Handbooks & Settlement Agreements

Provide qualified practitioners to conduct accredited Psychometric Profiling

Provide expert, reliable Employment Law Advice and cost effective Solutions

Prepare accurate Job Descriptions and Specifications for clients

Provide proactive HR Consultancy and Support

Provide Recruitment and Retention experts to help and support you

Provide Learning & Development Programs

Help Candidates make the right choices and career moves ensuring that organisations get the right person for the right role

and much, much more ….

and much, much more ….

Fairways is an approved supplier with Perth & Kinross Council to provide HR consultancy support services to local businesses in Perth and Kinross.

of contact for all our HR, employment “law,Oneandpoint general or otherwise business queries.

HMP Perth having been using Fairways since “2001, have always found them able to provide

Extremely knowledgeable, very approachable and very prompt to reply to any question raised be it by phone call or detailed email. My fellow directors and I would have no hesitation to recommend Fairways HR and will continue to have Fairways as part of our "team".

a reliable, efficient and prompt response to any requests for staff. The staff are very knowledgeable and professional, and I would have no hesitation in recommending Fairways to any potential client. HMP Perth looks forward to continuing a successful partnership with Fairways.

Stephen Allardyce, Allardyce Healthcare

HMP Perth

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