Business Comment 11

JUNE/JULY 2011

Edinburgh Chamber – UK Chamber of the year for international trade support and skills development

Presenting Edinburgh’s case for the Green Investment Bankpages 24-25

BC issue 11.indd 1 25/5/11 09:44:01

June/July2011 BC 3

We fly to Gatwick, Luton and Stansted.. Price correct as at 6 May 2011. Available to book now for travel between 21 May and 20 July 2011. Travel times quoted based on rail services from Nationalrail.co.uk Favourite airline based on total number of passengers flown from Scotland.

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10112649.9234-EJT-Business Comment Ad.indd 1 11/05/2011 13:56BC issue 11.indd 2 25/5/11 09:44:11

Contents

Ron Hewittchief executive

June/July2011 BC 3

We fly to Gatwick, Luton and Stansted.. Price correct as at 6 May 2011. Available to book now for travel between 21 May and 20 July 2011. Travel times quoted based on rail services from Nationalrail.co.uk Favourite airline based on total number of passengers flown from Scotland.

Variable charges for hold baggage apply and some payment methods attract a handling fee. See website for details.

We’ve got London covered

Edinburgh to London up to 158 flights a week

£24.99one wayinc. taxesfrom

Scotland’s favourite airline means business

Gatwick - Victoria 30 minsLuton - St. Pancras 36 mins

Stansted - Liverpool St 46 mins

10112649.9234-EJT-Business Comment Ad.indd 1 11/05/2011 13:56

JUNE/JULY2011

It has been a busy Spring promoting the location of the Green Investment Bank (GIB) in Edinburgh. Your Chamber has led the way in this campaign with a magnificent wide ranging support including cross party MPs Mike Crockart and Mark Lazarowicz and a wide range of companies. Grant Thornton prepared a hard hitting business case for our launch at Westminster where Scottish Secretary Michael Moore MP and former Chancellor Alasdair Darling MP joined us on the platform. Our delegation met privately with Dr Vince Cable afterwards. The event received over one hundred and fifty pieces of media coverage.

Our arguments are simple, but together form a complex web of good sense as to why the £3bn investment, due to launch in 2012 should be based in Edinburgh. Answering the question- “Where is the right location in the UK for GIB, the business case says: “The answer… lies not simply in the scale of the clean energy investment challenge but also in the unique combination of factors, technological, financial and commercial – that need to be addressed to meet targets and deliver a resilient and viable industry.” Edinburgh has a fantastic record in raising major project capital finance. This is crucial to the city’s excellent record on leveraging private sector funding need to multiply up the GIB’s cash offering.

“Location matters because successful commercialisation depends on effective collaboration and partnership between industry, technology and knowhow and finance.” And Scotland’s capital has all of those attributes- world leading academic research, large scale energy industry players with international expertise, a maritime support base in the Port of Leith, a vibrant financial services sector, many smaller companies providing innovation at component level and technical ability from welding to oceanography. Edinburgh is an attractive place to live and work and lies close to huge renewable energy opportunities in off shore wind, wave and tidal power. It has the highest per capita GDP outside of London, and the best educated workforce in the UK after Oxford.

As we showed at the launch and at our first Scottish Low Carbon Investment Conference last autumn, our existing commitment in the sector is characterised by a very high degree of private/public sector co-operation. By the afternoon of launch day the Scottish Conservative Party had issued a press release in support. The choice of location lies in the hands of the Department for Business Innovation & Skills at Westminster. As I write this, it is too early to say what the outcome will be. The business case talks about the opportunity as a jigsaw. I like

the analogy. The pump priming of £3bn in an industry that needs some £200bn has a practical as well as a psychological boost for Scotland’s ambitions if the Green Investment Bank can be secured for Edinburgh. What satisfaction there would be in putting that last piece of the jigsaw in place. My thanks to all our members who have supported this vital campaign. Last word to Friends of the Earth:

“A properly funded Green Investment Bank with real borrowing powers could play a really positive proactive

role in speeding the urgent transition to a low carbon future. There are many sensible arguments for locating such a bank in Edinburgh – where it will be ‘closer to the action’ and able to exploit an impressive concentration of skills and expertise in clean energy and finance.”

Business Comment is an Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce publication.

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03 Introduction / contents

04 Design company wins award

05 Capita Carillion invest in Edinburgh

07 Capital view

13 Be the best

14|15 Asian theme for festival

16|17 Inspiring connections

19 60 seconds

22|23 The interview

24|25 Cover feature

35 Going international

37 In the spotlight

38 City & World – Chamber policy

39 Legal

41 Ask the expert / get with IT

44 Getting started

50 Companies issued with warning about fraud

54 Movers & shakers

17 24Green Investment Bank for Edinburgh

BC issue 11.indd 3 25/5/11 09:44:23

4 BC June/July2011 June/July2011 BC 5

Chambernews

A design agency that used the recession to transform its business has won an award.Edinburgh-based H&A was awarded the top accolade at the Design Effectiveness Awards in the corporate/brand identity category for its work with Highland Experience Tours (HET). The awards are run by the Design Business Association (DBA).

H&A founder Ross Haddow said: “The recession was most definitely a catalyst for the company’s change of direction. We pulled back our client base, stopped working on a short-term project basis and stripped away everything bar our core services. Although it was tough, we stuck with it and the benefits have been huge.

“The extra space and time allowed us to engage more directly with our clients’ businesses and as a result we have built some really strong and fruitful relationships. Highland Experience is a great example.

“Although the move to redesign our company was bold, it was necessary in the current climate and we know we are not alone in this rational re-thinking. We have spoken to a number of businesses who have been re-aligning their business models and are now ready to push on in 2011.”

H&A’s work with Highland Experience generated immediate results. Business through the HET shop went up 40 per cent, agent sales grew by 200 per cent and online sales increased by 50 per cent. Within two months HET saw a full return on investment, and by the end of 2009 overall turnover was up 60 per cent compared to 2008.

Natalie Maher, DBA awards and communications manager, said: “H&A should be very proud to be accepting a gold award for their work with Highland Experience Tours as it’s a great example of the impact that design investment can have in SMEs, delivering results not only sales but on the internal culture, and setting them a clear step ahead of their competition.

Ross Haddow

Design company celebrates award after transforming fortunes

Guests had to be evacuated when a blaze at the Retreat Castle Hotel in Bonnyrigg in September 2010 ignited in its kitchens and quickly spread through the ventilation ducts.

Thanks to support from Bank of Scotland, the listed Retreat Castle – which dates back to 1640 - is again welcoming guests, wedding parties and diners.

Husband and wife proprietors, Peter and Judith Hood, were able to leverage working capital from Bank of Scotland to enable the extensive £250,000 refurbishment and restoration work to the hotel they purchased in 2006. The hotel boasts eight en-suite guest rooms, as well as bar, dining and function facilities set in 1.5 acres of picturesque grounds.

When severe weather conditions at the turn of the year hampered the progress of building works, Bank of Scotland agreed to extend its initial six-month financial assistance package by a further two months.Peter Hood, who has been a Bank of Scotland customer for more than 15 years, said: “The day of the fire was a devastating and frightening experience which threatened to destroy everything we had worked for.

“A very early visit from Bank of Scotland relationship director David Allan reassured us that we could count on their continued support while we worked through invariably complicated and time-consuming insurance issues. Ultimately, though, adversity spawned opportunity. While we remain respectful of the building’s proud past, the restoration has

enabled modernisation as part of the hotel rebuild. The new-look Retreat is now ideally positioned to accommodate the needs of the burgeoning local community and appeal to guests and clients from further afield. It’s an exciting time for all.”

Historic hotel banks on restoration renaissance

Peter & Judith Hood (right) with Bank of Scotland Relations Director David Allan (left) outside the Hotel.

A treasured 17th century hotel on the outskirts of Edinburgh – which was partially destroyed by fire last year - has reopened following a major restoration programme.

BC issue 11.indd 4 25/5/11 09:44:29

June/July2011 BC 5

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We are delighted that the Capita Carillion partnership has joined the Chamber as our latest Partner in Enterprise. We look forward to working with them to deliver the shared ambition of a thriving and prosperous City and Nation. Their contribution and commitment to the City is tangible and more recently they have been working with the Chamber to develop skill and training opportunities for young people, skills exchange to stimulate enterprise and energy reduction & generation initiatives to drive down carbon use.

Capita and Carillion are two of the UK’s largest property and services organisations and work in partnership across the UK and with many Scottish based organisations including HBOS, the Scottish Court Service, Glasgow City Council, Heriot-Watt and Napier Universities, MacDonald Estates, the Scottish Prisons Service, Centrica and Siemens.

Between them Capita and Carillion employ over 85,000 people, have joint annual revenues of circa £8.5bn and have an existing signifi cant Scottish presence with offi ces in Edinburgh, Glasgow and Aberdeen that employ over 3,000 staff.

Capita and Carillion have been working in partnership for over 10 years and have delivered nearly £800m of projects and services across both the public and private sectors throughout the UK, including the delivery and management of many new schools under the ‘Building

Schools for the Future’ programme and the delivery of several major infrastructure projects including the multi award-winning extension to the M6 motorway north of Carlisle.

The Capita Carillion approach, and key to its success, is working with and understanding the needs of local businesses and communities, building lasting relationships and delivering on partnership outcomes. The partnership is one of the largest providers of apprentice training in the UK and is therefore well placed to deliver opportunities for young people within the City of Edinburgh.

Roy Wallington, (pictured) Programme Director at Carillion, says: ‘We look forward to playing an integral role with the Chamber of Commerce and celebrate the Edinburgh brand, the City’s heritage, its place as an inspiring Capital and one of Europe’s leading centres for business. We have been very impressed with the work that the

Chamber does to stimulate economic growth and believe we can work together to provide future economic opportunities, especially for young and disadvantaged people, therefore helping deliver sustainable communities throughout the City”.

The partnership continues to go from strength to strength and is currently working together on new opportunities with a pipeline value of over £1bn including several long term strategic partnerships with Local Authorities and other public sector bodies.

The Capita Group Plc is the UK’s leading provider of BPO and integrated professional

support service solutions, deliver strategic property, asset management and multidisciplinary design services and is the leading provider of local government services within the UK. They have recently strengthened their service offering with the 2010 acquisition of NB Real Estate, now an integral part of Capita’s property and infrastructure business, with an offi ce in the heart of Edinburgh at 80 George Street.

Carillion is the largest UK support services company, particularly in property support services, and also operates in the Middle East and Canada. It has recently strengthened its service offering with the 2011 acquisition of Eaga, now an integral part of Carillion Energy Services.

These recent acquisitions have strengthened the ability of the partnership to deliver a fully integrated property and facilities management service, supporting organisations to deliver improved strategic asset management and sustainability whilst ensuring buildings are maintained to their optimum level and energy use reduced. We look forward to working with Capita Carillion within the Chamber.

Capita Carillion invest in Edinburgh

Partnership in Motion: Roy Wallington, Programme Director, Carillion (left) and Keith Edwards, Director, Capita.

BC issue 11.indd 5 25/5/11 09:44:41

June/July2011 BC 7

Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the E 220 CDI SE Auto Saloon: urban 36.2(7.8), extra urban 64.2(4.4), combined 48.7(5.8). CO2 emissions: 154 g/km.

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BC issue 11.indd 6 25/5/11 09:44:44

Capitalview

June/July2011 BC 7

Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the E 220 CDI SE Auto Saloon: urban 36.2(7.8), extra urban 64.2(4.4), combined 48.7(5.8). CO2 emissions: 154 g/km.

Finance an E-Class Saloon for your business through Mercedes-Benz of Edinburgh and benefit from low monthly payments from only £369*.

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Order today. Call us on 0843 208 0719 to discuss your fleet requirements.

Mercedes-Benz of Edinburgh Part of Edinburgh’s Luxury Car Village, Newbridge EH28 8QW www.mercedes-benzofedinburgh.co.ukMercedes-Benz of Coldstream 1 Guards Road, Coldstream TD12 4AL www.mercedes-benzofcoldstream.co.uk0843 208 0719

*For business users only. All payments subject to VAT: Example based on a Mercedes-Benz E 220 CDI SE Auto Saloon with metallic paint on a 36 months (3+35 profile) Mercedes-Benz Operating Lease agreement, excluding maintenance, with an advance payment of £1,107 and a £180 acceptance fee payable in addition to and at the same time as the first rental. Based on 10,000 miles per annum. Excess mileage charges may apply. Rental includes first year’s Road Fund Licence only.

E 220 CDI SE Saloon with automatic transmission and metallic paint.

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The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon. A sound business choice.

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All of my previous track record leads me naturally to here. My knowledge of large contracts, of negotiation, of management and leadership – and principally because trams are a very important part of the leadership of the City’s vision. But above all, because it excites me. It is a great project.

I believe that trams will play a key role in supporting the economic development necessary for the City over the next twenty years. My intention is to focus entirely on securing the final agreement for the City and until that is done, I will have very little to say on the subject, except, of course, to recognise the understandable concern that everyone has to see that solution reached.

I have been accustomed to some significantly challenging roles in the past – and actually there are some parallels between what the Clyde shipyards were like when I arrived in 2004 and where trams are now. At that time in the shipyards, morale was low, prospect of work was not good, and contrasting with the trams, technically the yards were bankrupt, with a workforce average age of 48. That meant that the youngest person there had been there for about 10 years, with little or no mechanism for refreshing the workforce, the place was stale and it was not a good environment at all.

I’ve had lots of challenges in my time, but that one covered so many different areas it probably presented itself as the biggest challenge to me. And we turned all that around.

We implemented an apprenticeship scheme and during the period we were there we actually had about 500 apprentices, so we became the largest private apprenticeship scheme in Scotland. Other public companies had larger schemes but ours was the biggest private apprenticeship scheme.

“We focused hard on increasing the turnover and when I left it was about £700m and had an order book of about £2bn. By the time I left we were employing about 4000 people, whereas when we took it over there was about 2000 people so we better than doubled the workforce.

We persuaded the Ministry of Defence to allow the company to build all of the Type 45 destroyers, these are very sophisticated ships and the company was only allocated one of them to build and the others were going to be built in Barrow in Furness and we persuaded the MOD to build all of them in Scotland which gave everyone a future.

I mention this because sometimes when you are at the heart of the storm it is hard to see how things will look once a project is delivered and running successfully. It takes a lot of resilience

to find a way through and to keep everyone motivated, particularly when there has been such constant negative comment.

So do I believe that this situation can be turned around? I absolutely do and I am very confident in the City’s skills and experience that will support me and the organisation in achieving this. Sue Bruce has quickly immersed herself in understanding what needs to be done and this is a very welcome addition to the larger team on the project and we appreciate her involvement.

I am also looking forward very much to working more closely with Chris Walton and all the team at Lothian Buses in the coming months. I have no doubt that I will have much progress to report in the next three to six months.

Robertson technologies received 86 enquiries at the exhibition and is confident that a number will join the business.

Hamish Robertson, founder of robertson technologies and a key speaker at the event, said: “There was strong support for the income guarantee scheme run by the

franchise. This pays new franchisees a certain amount if they meet set targets on the marketing activity they carry out in the first few months of trading.

“In addition there was a lot of interest also our new Cloud computing product called CloudDrive, which, in effect, gives users a

hard drive on the internet and allows them to access all their files whether they are at home, on their laptop or on their business machine in the office.”

Trams, boats and automobiles

Vic Emery

Company confident for the future

Vic Emery, of Edinburgh Trams, arrived at a crucial time immediately prior to mediation – so what makes someone with Vic’s industry track record take on the mantle of such a high profile and controversial project?

Edinburgh-based Robertson technologies, the computer support franchise, is set to add more franchisees following its success at the ExCel London Franchise Show.

BC issue 11.indd 7 25/5/11 09:44:49

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Businessnews

The eagerly-awaited arrival in Edinburgh of two giant pandas is expected to provide a major economic boost to the city.

Tian Tian and Yang Guang are due to arrive at Edinburgh Zoo this summer from Ya’an in China as part of an international breeding programme involving zoo owners the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS).

The background to the pandas’ arrival is an agreement signed in January this year, between RZSS and the Chinese Wildlife Conservation Organisation, allowing for the gift of two pandas to Edinburgh Zoo.

Iain Valentine, RZSS director of animals, conservation and education, said: “Given that Scotland is home to some of the world’s leading expertise in animal nutrition, genetics, embryology, immunology and veterinary medicine, we are well placed to support a number of vital areas.

“Primarily, our research plan will be looking to provide further insight into the genetic make-up of giant pandas, including the diseases to which they are prone and their choice of food. There is still a long way to go in the world’s conservation efforts and research such as this is vital if we are to ensure the survival of the giant panda.”

RZSS and civic leaders hope that the arrival will support the marketing of Edinburgh as a destination for tourists. In the early stages, the

zoo expects visitor numbers to double, with a corresponding increase throughout the year.

This is seen as important for Scotland to the Scottish economy as it will draw in signifi cantly more visitors, who will spend money in the city. In addition, it will strengthen cultural links between Scotland and China, particularly in the year in which the Edinburgh International Festival will have a specifi c Asian theme.

Fiona Hyslop, Scottish Culture and External Affairs Minister, said: “As well as supporting China’s work to protect these animals, the arrival of the pandas is expected to bring signifi cant economic benefi ts for Scotland in terms of tourism, attracting hundreds of thousands of additional visitors to the zoo.

“Edinburgh Zoo has demonstrated that it has world-class expertise to breed and care for these rare animals and this announcement refl ects our continuing work to strengthen the cultural, educational and economic links between Scotland and China.”

Hugh Roberts, “interim” chief executive offi cer of RZSS, said: “This represents the beginning of a programme of research, education and partnership and the project has huge benefi t for the UK and Scotland, both in supporting giant panda conservation and in enhancing our programmes in education, science and conservation.”

Pandas’ impending arrival ‘good for city economy’

Tian Tian, and inset: Yang Guang

Businesses urged to review fuel costs as pump price rises Scottish companies that use large quantities of fuel are being advised to review their purchasing strategies after average UK fuel prices recently hit £1.30 per litre for the fi rst time.

Many existing fuel hedge contracts are set up for users with annual consumption of a minimum of hundreds of thousands litres of fuel each month.

David McGill, a treasury partner at Clydesdale Bank, said Scottish businesses that use even 50,000 litres a month should look at the security that hedging provides.

He said: “Now is a good time for businesses to review their fuel purchasing strategy and budgets given the day-to-day price changes. SMEs, in particular, can take advantage of this solution by committing to hedging smaller quantities of fuel than have traditionally been possible.

“The obvious advantages for these fuel hedging strategies are the benefi ts of taking the guesswork out of budgeting and relieving worries about possible sharp increases in fuel prices affecting cash fl ow. For businesses where fuel is a signifi cant proportion of costs, any increase in price could have a highly detrimental effect on its profi t margin.”

The risk with fuel hedging is that there is the possibility that fuel prices could drop below the pre-arranged price set out in the contract, but with many market commentators believing that prices are on an upward trajectory, treasury specialists at Clydesdale Bank believe it is an opportune moment for businesses to look at the options.

believing that prices are on an upward trajectory, treasury specialists at Clydesdale Bank believe it is an opportune moment for businesses to look at the options.

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BC issue 11.indd 8 25/5/11 09:45:03

June/July2011 BC 9

By Cliff Lockyer,The Fraser of Allander Institute, University of StrathclydeCoordinator of the Scottish Chambers’ Business Survey

Cliff Lockyer

However, there is much evidence in the results to suggest the Scottish economy, to all intents, stalled in the fi rst quarter, with a combination of weak demand, low consumer confi dence and rising costs and price pressures.

Economic growth is likely to be subdued in 2011, typically fi nancial based recessions tend to have a slower recovery than others, and the Fraser of Allander Institute is currently forecasting (March 2011) economic growth of 1% in Scotland in 2011, whilst the Lloyds TSB Scotland Business Monitor anticipates growth at 1.25%. However, rapidly rising oil prices and their impact on energy and transport costs, coupled with rising raw material costs may combine to slow this fragile growth.

Currently a pervasive sense of uncertainty surrounds the Scottish economy. Government policy in the run up to the election lacked detail and fi rms remain uncertain as to the scale and impact of anticipated spending cuts. Uncertainty as to the continuing increases in oil and energy prices is affecting business decision making, as is uncertainty in export markets. Uncertainty as to income and job security continues to infl uence consumer behaviour.

In addition to the impact of rising oil prices the rate of economic growth may be affected by: - rising infl ation; the continuing sovereign debt issues in the EURO area; continuing weak household demand; the impact of the spending cuts and tax rises, and exchange rate movements in export markets.

The Scottish Chambers’ Business Survey for Q1 2011 noted that within manufacturing export led demand continued to improve, but in common with other sectors confi dence eased and generally expectations for the year ahead were weaker at the end of Q1 2011 than in 2010. Concerns as to rising raw material and transport costs were more widespread and pressures to raise prices in manufacturing are at their highest for more than two years and the highest recorded in retail. Both the Lloyds TSB Monitor (three months to February) and the Purchasing Managers Index (for March 2011) noted rising price pressures impacting on business confi dence.

Scottish Chambers’ manufacturing respondents expect little change in total orders over the year, with export orders less able to offset a decline in Scottish and rest of UK orders. Activity in construction is set to remain weak, and much will depend on Government action to stimulate activity. In the service sector weak consumer confi dence and infl ation will continue to adversely impact on weak retail sales trends.

Activity and occupancy in hotels was little changed from fi rst quarters of previous years, and demand for bar/restaurant facilities remains weak.

Rising price pressures and weak demand seem set to continue in the service sector, for many Scottish businesses the combination of limited improvements in turnover, rising costs, pressures on margins and declining trends in profi tability will pose real problems in 2011. In the current climate of uncertainty planning to deal with these pressures is harder. It is to be hoped that the election in May will at least lead to some clarity to Government policies.

Economic Trends

The effects of the harsh winter weather were again evident in a number of surveys of Scottish business for the fi rst quarter of this year, slowing activity in January but potentially contributing to some improvement in activity in February and March as fi rms sought to complete delayed work.

BC issue 11.indd 9 25/5/11 09:45:06

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BMW NEWSJOY REACHES NEW HIGHS

not only made BMW an excellent proposition as a company vehicle and a favourite with drivers but we have also been fortunate to pick some awards up along the way. Year on year, BMW’s commitment to sustainability has been recognised by the industry and were named Green Fleet Manufacturer of the Year 2010 by Fleetworld and Business Car Manufacturer of the year 2010.

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Did you know at Peter Vardy we give 10% of our profits to charity.The Peter Vardy Foundation was launched as a means of distributing 10% of our annual profits to worthwhile causes in the communities where we operate across Scotland.When we opened for business in Scotland, we were determined that Peter Vardy would be a company that did things differently for the benefit of customers, staff and the wider community. The Peter Vardy Foundation is our mechanism for delivering on this commitment.Recently Edinburgh sick kids hospital received a boost as Peter Vardy, Edinburgh handed over a cheque for £4,451 at the hospital’s open day. We raised the money in just six months by holding a casino night, taking part in a raft race, selling home baking and running raffles. More recently a number of us also slept out under the stars in support of The Bethany Big Sleep out on the Royal Mile.As a company Peter Vardy Ltd also continues to be acknowledged as one of the best places to work, recently being voted 15th best company to work for in the Sunday Times top 100, moving up from 22nd in 2010’s survey.

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Hairy Hamish handing over £4,400 of his wages to the Sick Kids.

Managing Partner Steve Brown waking up on the Royal Mile having raised £5,000 for the homeless.

BMW accounts team white water rafting to raise £2,000 for Edinburgh Sick Kids.

EXCLUSIVE OFFERS FOR OUR CORPORATE CUSTOMERS.

Peter Vardy Edinburgh0131 341 0787 www.petervardybmw.co.ukOfficial fuel economy figures for the BMW range: Extra Urban: 26.2-78.5mpg (10.8-3.6l/100km). Urban: 14.6-56.5mpg (19.3-5.0l/100km). Combined: 20.3-68.9mpg (13.9-4.1l/100km). CO2 emissions 325-109g/km. Official fuel economy figures for the MINI range: Extra Urban 45.6-80.7mpg (6.2-3.5l/100km).Urban 27.4-67.3mpg (10.3-4.2l/100km). Combined 36.7-74.3mpg (7.7-3.8l/100km). CO2 emissions 180-99g/km.This quote is indicative and is available to any business purchaser, fleet size upto 50 cars. Prices are held for 30 days unless there is any change in the Manufacturer’s price for the Vehicle or in the Road Fund Licence fee or VAT or as otherwise provided in the Agreement. This quotation is subject to the Vehicle detailed above being available and sourced from our associated finance partners. All rentals shown are exclusive of VAT which will be levied at the relevant rate, currently 20%. BMW EfficientDynamics reduces BMW emissions without compromising performance developments and is standard across the model range.Not available in conjunction with any other offer. Hiring examples are based on 48 month BMW Corporate Finance agreements for the models shown, a BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Saloon, a deposit of £1,650.00 followed by 47 monthly rentals of £275.00, mileage charge in excess of contract mileage 7.07 pence per mile, a BMW 520d SE Saloon, a deposit of £2,034.00 followed by 47 monthly rentals of £339.00, mileage charge in excess of contract mileage 6.89 pence per mile, a BMW M3 Convertible, a deposit of £3,594.00 followed by 47 monthly rentals of £529.00, mileage charge in excess of contract mileage 18.30 per mile, a BMW 730d SE Saloon, a deposit of £2,874.00 followed by 47 monthly rentals of £479.00, mileage charge in excess of contract mileage 15.75 pence per mile. Vehicle condition charges may apply at the end of your agreement. Figures are correct at time of publishing and are subject to change without notice. All hiring is subject to status and available to over 18s in the UK only (excluding the Channel Islands). Guarantees and indemnities may be required. Hiring facilities provided by BMW Financial Services, Europe House, Bartley Way, Hook, Hampshire, RG27 9UF, BMW EfficientDynamics reduces BMW emissions without compromising performance developments and is standard across the model range. **Saving is based on BMW 318d Sport Plus Edition Saloon, £2,930 worth of additional equipment for £610.00.

BMW 320d EFFICIENT DYNAMICS SALOON £275 PER MONTH (PLUS VAT).

BMW 520d SE SALOON £339 PER MONTH (PLUS VAT).

BMW M3 CONVERTIBLE £529 PER MONTH (PLUS VAT).


MINI COOPER D HATCH £169 PER MONTH (PLUS VAT).

MINI COOPER D CLUBMAN £189 PER MONTH (PLUS VAT).

MINI COOPER D CONVERTIBLE £189 PER MONTH (PLUS VAT).

MINI COOPER D COUNTRYMAN ALL4 £229 PER MONTH (PLUS VAT).

BC issue 11.indd 10 25/5/11 09:45:25

As your local BMW Dealer, we understand the needs of business users and Fleet Managers alike. Whether your needs are small or large – whether you’re looking for one car, or 100 – we have the skill

solution for you. Our team has over 25 years combined BMW and corporate experience, and we will make every effort to help you work to your budget and maximise return on your

investment. Combine this expertise with BMW

If you can’t make it to us then we can easily come to you, so please do not hesitate to get in touch with our dedicated team Robert Simpson or Callum Sharp to discuss your needs. Robert states:

personal service around whatever your business needs are. Regardless of whether you are looking

Callum and I will always take the same care and professionalism to ensure that we come up with the ideal tailored solution for you. BMW with its

choice for any company car user regardless of size

bandings they are even more effective in managing the cost of business vehicles.”

A LITTLE BIT ABOUT OUR TEAMRobert Simpson our Corporate Sales Manager

market with BMW and has been with us for over two and a half years as our own Corporate Manager. Robert is married with three boys and lives in the Borders. His interests are football, family, swimming and naturally Robert can be contacted directly on 07912 895 777.

Callum Sharp is our newly appointed Business Development Manager who has been in the Leasing industry for over 10 years and lives with his partner in Edinburgh. Callum can be reached directly on 07841 878 873.

BMW NEWSJOY REACHES NEW HIGHS

not only made BMW an excellent proposition as a company vehicle and a favourite with drivers but we have also been fortunate to pick some awards up along the way. Year on year, BMW’s commitment to sustainability has been recognised by the industry and were named Green Fleet Manufacturer of the Year 2010 by Fleetworld and Business Car Manufacturer of the year 2010.

What’s more, the new BMW 5 Series Saloon was named Best Executive Car in the FleetWorld

been awarded Best Executive Car at the recent WHATCAR? Green Awards and, for the second

the title of Best Luxury Car in the Fleet News awards; conclusive proof that sustainability and desirability needn’t be mutually exclusive.

Corporate Sales Manager Robert Simpson 07912 895 777 [email protected] Business Development Manager Callum Sharpe 07841 878 873 [email protected] Or you can call our dealership on 0131 669 0900 or visit us at www.petervardybmw.co.uk

Did you know at Peter Vardy we give 10% of our profits to charity.The Peter Vardy Foundation was launched as a means of distributing 10% of our annual profits to worthwhile causes in the communities where we operate across Scotland.When we opened for business in Scotland, we were determined that Peter Vardy would be a company that did things differently for the benefit of customers, staff and the wider community. The Peter Vardy Foundation is our mechanism for delivering on this commitment.Recently Edinburgh sick kids hospital received a boost as Peter Vardy, Edinburgh handed over a cheque for £4,451 at the hospital’s open day. We raised the money in just six months by holding a casino night, taking part in a raft race, selling home baking and running raffles. More recently a number of us also slept out under the stars in support of The Bethany Big Sleep out on the Royal Mile.As a company Peter Vardy Ltd also continues to be acknowledged as one of the best places to work, recently being voted 15th best company to work for in the Sunday Times top 100, moving up from 22nd in 2010’s survey.

The complete corporate service.

Peter Vardy Corporate.

At Peter Vardy our main focus is to deliver a personal service around whatever your business needs are.

Hairy Hamish handing over £4,400 of his wages to the Sick Kids.

Managing Partner Steve Brown waking up on the Royal Mile having raised £5,000 for the homeless.

BMW accounts team white water rafting to raise £2,000 for Edinburgh Sick Kids.

EXCLUSIVE OFFERS FOR OUR CORPORATE CUSTOMERS.

Peter Vardy Edinburgh0131 341 0787 www.petervardybmw.co.ukOfficial fuel economy figures for the BMW range: Extra Urban: 26.2-78.5mpg (10.8-3.6l/100km). Urban: 14.6-56.5mpg (19.3-5.0l/100km). Combined: 20.3-68.9mpg (13.9-4.1l/100km). CO2 emissions 325-109g/km. Official fuel economy figures for the MINI range: Extra Urban 45.6-80.7mpg (6.2-3.5l/100km).Urban 27.4-67.3mpg (10.3-4.2l/100km). Combined 36.7-74.3mpg (7.7-3.8l/100km). CO2 emissions 180-99g/km.This quote is indicative and is available to any business purchaser, fleet size upto 50 cars. Prices are held for 30 days unless there is any change in the Manufacturer’s price for the Vehicle or in the Road Fund Licence fee or VAT or as otherwise provided in the Agreement. This quotation is subject to the Vehicle detailed above being available and sourced from our associated finance partners. All rentals shown are exclusive of VAT which will be levied at the relevant rate, currently 20%. BMW EfficientDynamics reduces BMW emissions without compromising performance developments and is standard across the model range.Not available in conjunction with any other offer. Hiring examples are based on 48 month BMW Corporate Finance agreements for the models shown, a BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Saloon, a deposit of £1,650.00 followed by 47 monthly rentals of £275.00, mileage charge in excess of contract mileage 7.07 pence per mile, a BMW 520d SE Saloon, a deposit of £2,034.00 followed by 47 monthly rentals of £339.00, mileage charge in excess of contract mileage 6.89 pence per mile, a BMW M3 Convertible, a deposit of £3,594.00 followed by 47 monthly rentals of £529.00, mileage charge in excess of contract mileage 18.30 per mile, a BMW 730d SE Saloon, a deposit of £2,874.00 followed by 47 monthly rentals of £479.00, mileage charge in excess of contract mileage 15.75 pence per mile. Vehicle condition charges may apply at the end of your agreement. Figures are correct at time of publishing and are subject to change without notice. All hiring is subject to status and available to over 18s in the UK only (excluding the Channel Islands). Guarantees and indemnities may be required. Hiring facilities provided by BMW Financial Services, Europe House, Bartley Way, Hook, Hampshire, RG27 9UF, BMW EfficientDynamics reduces BMW emissions without compromising performance developments and is standard across the model range. **Saving is based on BMW 318d Sport Plus Edition Saloon, £2,930 worth of additional equipment for £610.00.

BMW 320d EFFICIENT DYNAMICS SALOON £275 PER MONTH (PLUS VAT).


BMW M3 CONVERTIBLE £529 PER MONTH (PLUS VAT).


MINI COOPER D HATCH £169 PER MONTH (PLUS VAT).

MINI COOPER D CLUBMAN £189 PER MONTH (PLUS VAT).

MINI COOPER D CONVERTIBLE £189 PER MONTH (PLUS VAT).

MINI COOPER D COUNTRYMAN ALL4 £229 PER MONTH (PLUS VAT).

MINI COOPER D CONVERTIBLE(PLUS VAT).

(PLUS VAT).

MINI COOPER D CLUBMAN(PLUS VAT).

(PLUS VAT).

BC issue 11.indd 11 25/5/11 09:45:36

The best of legal expertise honoured at award ceremony

June/July2011 BC 13

More than 450 guests celebrated the best in Scottish legal expertise when they attended the Scottish Legal Awards 2011 held at Edinburgh International Conference Centre.

Fourteen winners were announced with Thompsons Scotland collecting the DX Firm of the Year Award 2011. Sir David Edward was honoured with the Scotsman Lifetime Achievement Award for his career as a lawyer, academic and former Judge of the Court of Justice of the European Communities. Former Firm of the Year winner, Harper Macleod, continued its success by collecting four awards including the new Energy Team

of the Year category, Support Team of the Year, Public Sector Law Team of the Year and individual recognition for Susan Breen as Paralegal of the Year. In the most popular category, the Litigation Team of the Year, Digby Brown was highly commended by the judges, but the ultimate winner was Simpson & Marwick.

Pagan Osborne enjoyed a successful evening, with three awards going to the East Coast firm including Private Client Team of the Year, Gillian Gibbons as Rising Star of the Year and Colin Clark, agricultural specialist for Specialist Lawyer of the Year. In the team categories, awards were

presented to Biggart Baillie for Commercial Property Team of the Year, maloco + associates for the Residential Property Team of the Year and ros.gov.uk for Fundraising Achievement of the Year for its efforts for Alzheimer Scotland.

Russel + Aitken won the Innovation Award for its property film trailers and the Law Society of Scotland was awarded Training Provider of the Year. The event, which was hosted by Scottish comedian Jonathan Watson and BBC Scotland’s Catriona Shearer, also raised funds for Children 1st, Scotland ’s leading child welfare charity.

Energy Team of the Year • Harper Macleod • Wright, Johnston & Mackenzie WINNER: Harper Macleod Law Society of Scotland Fundraising Achievement of the Year • Inksters Solicitors • McGrigors • Ros.gov.uk WINNER: Ros.gov.uk LexisNexis Innovation Award • Inksters Solicitors • Pagan Osborne • Russel + Aitken • Young & Partners WINNER: Russel + Aitken Grant Thornton Litigation Team of the Year • Andersons Solicitors • Biggart Baillie • Davidson Chalmers • Digby Brown • Halliday Campbell WS • HBJ Gateley Wareing • Simpson & Marwick • Thorntons • Young & Partners HIGHLY COMMENDED: Digby Brown WINNER: Simpson & Marwick

Scottish Paralegal Association Paralegal of the Year • Susan Breen, Harper Macleod • Brendan Kelly, Wright, Johnston & Mackenzie WINNER: Susan Breen, Harper Macleod Hotel Du Vin Private Client Team of the Year • Archibald Campbell & Harley • Brodies • Pagan Osborne WINNER: Pagan Osborne MCL Public Sector Law Team of the Year • Biggart Baillie • Civil Legal Assistance Office - Highlands and Islands • Harper Macleod • Scottish Court Service - North Strathclyde WINNER: Harper Macleod Ros.gov.uk Residential Property Team of the Year • maloco + associates • Simpson & Marwick WINNER: maloco + associates Rising Star of the Year • Gillian Gibbons, Pagan Osborne • Erica Buchan, Ledingham Chalmers • Philip Hannay, Macdonald Henderson • Paul McNairney, Morisons LLP • Anna Louise Christie, The Wood Group WINNER: Gillian Gibbons, Pagan Osborne

Scottish Law Directory Specialist Lawyer of the Year • Andy Drane, Davidson Chalmers • Carol Fox, Fox Cross Solicitors Ltd • Iain Nisbet, Govan Law Centre • David Kaye, Harper Macleod • Colin Clark, Pagan Osborne • Iain Clark, Young & Partners HIGHLY COMMENDED: Iain Nisbet, Govan Law Centre WINNER: Colin Clark, Pagan Osborne Millar & Bryce Support Team of the Year • Harper Macleod • First Scottish Group Ltd WINNER: Harper Macleod GP Wolffe Training Provider of the Year • Central Law Training • The Law Society of Scotland WINNER: The Law Society of Scotland DX Firm of the Year • Davidson Chalmers • Simpson & Marwick • Thompsons Scotland WINNER: Thompsons Scotland

12 BC June/July2011

THE WINNERS IN FULL

The winners celebrate

BC issue 11.indd 12 25/5/11 09:45:53

Bethebest

Qualifi cations will be available in Leadership and Management and delivered and assessed by the Institute of Leadership & Management (ILM). The ILM is the UKs largest awarding body for Leadership & Management qualifi cations with more than 90,000 learners registered each year. The offering will include a selection of qualifi cations which can be tailored to the full range of management roles and functions in any size of organisation.

You can be sure that when you enrol for one of our qualifi cations you will be undertaking practical learning based on your role through a local business school with a national

standard of excellence. Your qualifi cation will be recognised throughout businesses in the UK.

Units available cover the entire Leadership & Management functions including HR, Finance, Marketing, Leadership and many more. All units are assessed by practical and refl ective assessment rather than examination, enabling study to be undertaken whilst in full-time employment and the learning to be applied directly to the learner’s business.

These courses are ideal for anyone running a small business with no formal management training or qualifi cations. They are also ideal

for management staff in larger organisations or those with aspirations of achieving management level.

For more information please contact Gil Steele, Training Manager on 01312217511, [email protected]

June/July2011 BC 13

To add to its comprehensive range of skills training, Chamber Business Solutions will launch its very own Business School in August, giving members of the Chamber access to diploma level qualifi cations at a discounted price.

Be the best with the Chamber Business School

Gil Steele

UK’s fi rst tax rates app launches for business owners & fi nancial directors

Fraser Kerr, Partner at Haines Watts, said: “No other UK accountancy fi rm has offered such an app. At Haines Watts we make sure we give business owners what they want, when they want it – technology is the ideal way to do this.

“Time is money – and anything that streamlines accountancy and makes things faster and more effi cient is worth embracing. Rather than having to use the internet via a PC to fi nd out relevant tax rates or keep a hard copy tax card to hand, the app will

allow access to tax rates anywhere, at any point in time.”

The app is free to download from the app store.

Paula Ketterer, Marketing and Business Development Manager at Haines Watts, said: “Our partners, who are also business owners, rely on their phones now to access information 24/7 as a matter of course - we know that other business owners would be doing the same. Time is at a premium for business owners and FDs, and this is just a

small step in the process of driving effi cient and massively more convenient accountancy services.”

A new mobile app has been launched for business owners, fi nancial directors and fi nancial controllers, giving instant and continuous access to the latest UK Tax Rates on their iPhones.

stayonestepAheadwithfreebranding&marketingadvice;call08447362992

BC issue 11.indd 13 25/5/11 09:45:55


Artists from China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea and Vietnam, as well as North America, Germany, Belgium, Russia, the UK and from across the Arab-speaking world will gather in Edinburgh for three weeks of classical and contemporary music, dance, theatre, opera and visual arts.

Highlights include The Peony Pavilion, performed by the National Ballet of China with western classical ballet, a symphony orchestra, traditional Chinese instruments and a Chinese story.

The Tempest is re-imagined by Mokwha Repertory Company from Seoul in a production weaving Shakespeare’s tale with fifth-century Korean chronicles. King Lear is deconstructed as a one man tour-de-force by Contemporary Legend Theatre from Taipei.

In another adaptation of Shakespeare, Shanghai Peking Opera Troupe will retell Hamlet, setting it in China.

Scottish Ballet and the Royal Scottish National Orchestra will perform Kenneth MacMillan’s ballet Song of the Earth, set to Mahler’s song cycle inspired by Chinese poetry from the T’ang Dynasty.

Japanese artist Hiroshi Sugimoto, one of the world’s leading artists, brings two poetic series of work not presented before in Europe and the Virgin Money Fireworks Concert will feature more than 100,000 firing sequences launched from Edinburgh Castle, choreographed to music performed by the Scottish Chamber Orchestra on Sunday 4 September at 9pm.

Businesses are among those supporting the festival. Jonathan Mills, Edinburgh International Festival Director, said: “We are delighted to welcome new businesses, individuals, trusts, foundations and international partners in 2011, and to see growth in our relationships with continuing partners and our public funders Creative Scotland and City of Edinburgh Council.

“These investments highlight the continued recognition of the value of the arts to the vitality of national, regional and international communities and are very important in bringing the stages of Edinburgh to life and creating so many memorable Festival experiences.’

Councillor Jenny Dawe, Leader of the City of Edinburgh Council , said: ‘This year’s Edinburgh International Festival theme reflects our shared bonds with other cultures and countries through artistic expression. Notwithstanding the extremely challenging financial pressures facing all public bodies, The City of Edinburgh Council is proud to continue its support of this prestigious and important event and its clear contribution to the reputation of the city both at home and across the world.“

Bookings can be made online at www.eif.co.uk and by phone on +44(0)1314732000. Tickets start at £10 and a range of discounts are available.

Asian theme for Festival

Edinburgh International Festival 2011Peony PavilionThe National Ballet of China

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The programme for Edinburgh International Festival, which runs between Friday 12 August and Sunday 4 September, is a celebration of the vibrant and diverse cultures of Asia.

BC issue 11.indd 14 25/5/11 09:45:58

June/July2011 BC 15

Edinburgh International Festival 2011Die Frau Ohne SchattenMariinsky Opera

Edinburgh International Festival 2011 Symphoca Princess Bari (This World)Eun-Me Ahn Company

Edinburgh International Festival 2011Saturday 3 September, 11am, The Queen’s Hall

Edinburgh International Festival 2011Semiramide Vlaamse Opera

Thursday 25 August and Saturday 27 August, 6.00pm, Festival Theatre, Edinburgh

Photo: Natasha Razina eif.co.uk + 44 (0) 131 473 2000

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Inspiringconnections


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Budget BreakfastBudget analysts Bill Jamieson, from the Scotsman, and David Collier, from Chiene + Tait, showed themselves accomplished at digesting, analysing and presenting the budget impact, just a few hours after the Chancellor had finished his Budget Speech.

David McMorrine of Carron Bathrooms and Kenneth McDowell of Chiene & Tait, ready and waiting for speakers Bill Jamieson of The Scotsman and David Collier of

Chiene & Tait.

04

Premier Series Dinner – STVRob Woodward, the CEO of STV Group plc, has led the corporate turnaround of the group. From an ailing disparate organisation STV has emerged as a strong, innovative, focused company positioned as Scotland’s Media Company of Choice. Rob described the turnaround process, the growth strategy for the company and the plans for the future. He also outlined the technological and regulatory changes that are revolutionising the way the media is consumed.

Ron Hewitt Edinburgh Chamber CEO and Rob Woodward CEO OF STV Group plc having a chat with Ann Confrey of Proscot PR.

David Frost, Director General, British Chambers of Commerce with Fiona MacFarlane of George Watson’s College.

01

02

03 Premier Series Dinner – MITIEGlobal recession and climate change fundamentally changed the way corporations need to operate in the 21st century. Ruby McGregor-Smith, CEO of MITIE, explored how these phenomena have affected business and how she sees the business world changing. Mrs McGregor-Smith drew on experience to share her ideas about how businesses have to develop new ways of working in partnership, in order to survive and prosper.

Edinburgh Chamber President Robert Carr enjoying a catch up with Ruby McGregor-Smith of Mitie, Ken Scotland and Stuart Douglas of ADT.

04

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An audience with Rt Hon Dr Vince CableEdinburgh Chamber of Commerce hosted an event with Dr Vince Cable MP, Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills and President of the Board of Trade. Dr Cable is at the heart of the Coalition’s policies for recovery and the growth of businesses & private sector employment. He outlined his department’s strategy for supporting and developing businesses, including a commitment to remove red tape, encourage entrepreneurship and support small enterprises.

Ron Hewitt Edinburgh Chamber CEO warmly welcomes Rt. Hon Dr. Vince Cable, Secretary of State for BIS.

Rt. Hon Dr. Vince Cable under siege by the press.

L to R: Ron Hewitt, Rt. Hon Dr. Vince Cable, Dave Anderson of City of Edinburgh Council and Scott Black of FWB in deep conversation with Angus Macpherson of Espirito Santo Investment Bank Incorporating Execution Noble

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L to R: Andy Kerr Labour MSP, Murdo Fraser Scottish Conservative Party, Nicola Sturgeon Scottish National Party, Ron Hewitt Edinburgh Chamber CEO, Patrick Harvie Scottish Green Party and Tavish Scott Scottish Liberal Debocrats are all ready to start the proceedings…

Donald Kerr of Bank of Scotland (left) discussing the morning’s event with Graham Birse Edinburgh Chamber Managing Director and Ewan McCulloch Bank of Scotland

Business Hustings – BreakfastEdinburgh Chamber argue that reducing the size of the public sector is necessary, even overdue, but that we must stimulate business and the capacity of SMEs to replace the jobs lost in the public sector. We want to hear from the party leaders on plans to protect fragile SMEs, promote exports, create jobs and develop an agenda for growth. In partnership with Bank of Scotland, we presented a ‘Business Hustings’ event with all the party leaders in attendance; Alex Salmond, Annabel Goldie, Iain Gray, Patrick Harvie and Tavish Scott.

BC issue 11.indd 17 25/5/11 09:47:26

June/July2011 BC 19

BC issue 11.indd 18 25/5/11 09:47:30

60seconds

Name: William PurnellCompany Name: Central TaxisWebsite: www.taxis-edinburgh.co.uk

q In five words or less, what do you do?

A Safe, reliable, trusted taxi service.

q How long have you been a Chamber member?

A We’ve been members for over 10 years and counting.

q Why did you join?

A Central Taxis joined the Chamber so that we could grow as a business through learning about local opportunities and networking.

q What services do you use?

A We attend many of the Chamber events and of course, the magazine is widely read in the office by all of our staff.

q What’s the best business/benefit you have won through the Chamber?

A Definitely meeting key contacts and educating them about what Central can do for them.

q Are there any additional services or information you’d be particularly interested in?

A We’d really like to find out more about The Partners in Enterprise membership. As an innovative, local business, we have recently announced our status as Scotland’s first CarbonNeutral® Black Taxi Company and hope we could contribute to this strategic alliance of key business players.

q If you were telling another business person about the Chamber, what’s the first thing you would say?

A As an established Edinburgh business, the Chamber helps us to promote our services and news, develop business networking skills and seek out new and innovative business ideas.

q Where do you read your copy of Business Comment?

A The magazine is a great read whilst I’m sitting in my cab, enjoying the fantastic Edinburgh scenery and atmosphere.

June/July2011 BC 19

The move underlines the current demand from customers seeking long-haul holidays from Edinburgh.

Kevin Brown, Managing Director of Edinburgh Airport, said: “Our passengers and stakeholders are continually asking us for more direct flights from the Capital so I’m delighted to be announcing these new destinations from Edinburgh to Cancun and Florida.

“We’re committed to growing our long haul reach and continue to discuss opportunities with carriers travelling both East and West.”

Paul Cooper, Head of Airport Negotiations for Thomson Airways, said: “At Thomson Airways we are fully committed to our regional airports in Scotland as we

understand the importance of allowing our customers greater choice and flexibility. For those looking to escape for some summer sun next year, we will have more choice then ever before without the inconvenience of a long journey to the airport”.

Direct flights from Edinburgh to Cancun and Florida are now available to book for summer 2012, starting from £609 per person return to Cancun and £689 return to Florida and will go on sale from today, 5th May 2011.

As the UK’s biggest leisure airline, Thomson Airways offers fantastic customer service; ensuring holidays can begin as soon as customers depart the UK. All seats are allocated at check-in, meaning there is no

scrum to board the aircraft, and for long haul flights they offer more legroom in economy than BA, Virgin Atlantic, bmi and Monarch.

For a full schedule of flights from Edinburgh, or to book, visit www.thomson.co.uk/flightsor call 08712314787.

For further information, please contact Gordon Robertson on 07785372961

New long haul routes to Florida and Mexico from Edinburgh AirportThomson Airways, the airline for Thomson and First Choice, has announced it will be introducing Cancun and Florida as new destinations from Edinburgh Airport for its 2012 summer season.

BC issue 11.indd 19 25/5/11 09:47:46

Good things taste even better whenthey’re on the house

eastcoast.co.uk/welcome

Complimentary meal available in First Class on journeys over 70 minutes20 BC June/July2011

Work is starting on a £45m development on the edge of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile to bring a new hotel-led, mixed use development to the Castlehill area of the city.

Multi-sector property developers, Chris Stewart Group, have announced that they have completed the purchase of a 140,000 sq ft site and have agreed terms with Motel One, one of Europe’s fastest growing hotel groups, to anchor the development by opening their first UK hotel in the Scottish capital next summer.

Motel One, a luxury budget operator which has 32 hotels in Germany and two in development in Austria, have agreed terms for a 208 bedroom hotel located in the former buildings of Edinburgh City Council’s Economic Development department on Market Street .

The £25m hotel will form the cornerstone of the development which already has planning consent and will include 30,000 sq ft of residential space including self catering apartments, plus six office premises comprising 10,000sq ft each, and two new restaurants. The development site which stretches from Market Street towards Advocates Close off the Royal Mile will take three years to complete.

Chris Stewart, the award-winning property developer who has been converting historic buildings in Scotland for over 15 years, said that the agreement with Motel One was crucial in securing the future of the site. He said: “Bringing Motel One in to anchor the whole development kick starts the regeneration of a key part of the Old Town which will take place over the next three years. I am delighted that we can now start to physically move the project forward. Motel One were introduced to me by Scottish Development International at the annual International Investment Hotel Forum

in Berlin and it was clear that they were actively looking at the UK Edinburgh was high on their target list and although this site has been challenging for us due to its sensitive nature and historic context, we were sure it could provide Motel One with everything they were looking for. I hope that Market Street is the first of many projects which we do with Motel One.”

Anne MacColl, Chief Executive Officer, Scottish Development International, said: “On behalf of Scottish Development International, I am pleased to welcome the announcement of Motel One’s first UK property in Edinburgh SDI has been actively engaged since early 2008 to help them identify the right property to grow their European business as well as introducing them to the property’s developer, Chris Stewart.

“UK hotels continue to be the most occupied in Europe, with Edinburgh showing the highest occupancy in the UK outside of London . Motel One’s decision to locate in Edinburgh reinforces the fact that Scotland presents significant opportunities for hotel development and this project will help to generate additional tourism revenue for Scotland from increased international visitors.”

Market Street will be the fourth major hotel development carried out by Chris Stewart Group in recent years. The company has successfully developed three other sites in Edinburgh City Centre, two on Waterloo Place now occupied by Apex Hotels and Travelodge, and one further site on Baxter’s Place which is due to move forward later this year.

Key tenant kick starts £45m development in Edinburgh ’s old town

Business events relaunchedBusiness Forum Scotland has relaunched its regular sessions aimed at supporting emerging companies, bringing together entrepreneurs and potential investors.

Mary Strachan, recently appointed as Programme Director of Business Forum Scotland, said: “There is no question that the banks and other traditional sources of funding for young companies have reduced their investment programmes during the past two years.

“We aim to help bridge this gap by ensuring quality young companies get a chance to set out their business strategies in front of potential investors.

“We are relaunching Business Forum Scotland and have signed an agreement with Peter Shakeshaft of LINC Scotland that will ensure we have potential investors present at each session this year, four in the east of Scotland and four in the west.”

More information is available at www.businessforumscotland.com

BC issue 11.indd 20 25/5/11 09:47:50

Good things taste even better whenthey’re on the house

eastcoast.co.uk/welcome

Complimentary meal available in First Class on journeys over 70 minutes

BC issue 11.indd 21 25/5/11 09:47:51

Theinterview


sPeCiAlFeAture

Exploring the nature of leadershipMike Fiszer is fascinated with exploring the factors that hold business people back from achieving their true potential. It’s something he has tested time and time again during his varied and successful career.

Currently Director of Leadership Development at The Edinburgh Institute of Leadership and Management Practice established by Edinburgh Napier University Business School, he helps employees realise that potential through a better understanding of their behaviour patterns.

His own views on leadership have developed over many years. Born in Stirling, he took up secondary school science teaching after studying

psychology and several years of industrial experience across Europe.

As a teacher he helped students develop their

curiosity, a theme that occurs time and time again in his work with businesses.

He said: “I remember we had a child who asked why do some fi relighters not work so we set out to fi nd out.

“Then someone asked why do lawnmowers not start in the spring so we took them apart to fi nd out. And someone else asked why does one candle last longer than others so we set out to answer that question as well.

“It was about encouraging the students curiosity and ownership of the answer. For me, there are parallels with great leaders. I am always looking for a sense of the child in a person, not childishness but that curiosity of the child.”

BC issue 11.indd 22 25/5/11 09:47:54

June/July2011 BC 23

After teaching, he moved into marketing and saw plenty of examples of poor leadership as he worked with companies ranging from dockyards to science laboratories.

He said: “My ideas on leadership did not come suddenly, they developed gradually. I saw a real lack of leadership in some companies. For me there is a difference between management and leadership. Management is more about making sure that we now do what we do right. Leadership is more about choosing to do the right thing and then at ways to improve it.”

“You see organisations with people who have worked themselves into positions that they think are unassailable. They are resistant to change. I think that good leaders are the ones that help create the future. It’s that curiosity again.”

“Although highly motivated people, they realise that they are not good at everything. They have a sense of humility. They know their strengths but realise that they may be average in other areas and bring in talented people who excel there. I think good leaders are more open-minded. You hear of cases where a CEO who was fi nance director still thinks they can do the job of fi nance director better than the person in the post. Good leaders do not have that envy. They need and want excellent people around them who complement their own skills.”

“Leadership is not simply about headship. Good leaders look for leadership throughout their company. Leading well may only be about a couple of characteristics in a person that are different from others and good leaders direct and develop others to work in the areas of their strengths. Leaders are mood engineers; the mood of achievement in all.”

Mike has developed those theories in many different forums. He has an MBA from the University of Warwick, a B.Sc. Psychology

at the University of Edinburgh, a PG Cert.Ed from Moray House - Edinburgh, and is a Fellow of the Royal Society for the Arts and a Member of the Chartered Management Institute.

He headed up Leadership, Coaching and Personal Development in the Irish Management Institute, where he created leadership programmes drawing on the disciplines of management science, performing arts, sports and psychology.

Recently, he has worked with many large and small organisations throughout Asia, Europe and the US on mergers, board succession, restructuring, culture change and organisation development. That has included coaching and mentoring senior executives and their teams.

At the moment he is leading the MSc Advanced Leadership Practice (ALP) programme at Napier, which is for experienced mid to senior level managers who wish to challenge themselves and discover their leadership edge. It is designed to engage them in a move from managing to leading through gaining a deeper understanding of themselves, their performance and their impact on others.

Mike said: “People on the programme get results from and are rewarded in their behaviour change quickly. Employers can see results within the fi rst few workshops. In fact, more than 70% of this year’s cohort has been promoted to positions of substantial responsibility during the programme. Scottish and Southern Energy, for example, see it as a key programme for the development of their emerging leaders.

“We do want ALP to provide a unique personally challenging environment. Those who do sign up want to discover their current boundaries and to be prepared for the moment when a leadership challenge asks them to step up and be counted. This programme is not

about leadership, it is about supporting and developing the leader in the participant as they make their own very personal journey.”

At whatever level he has worked, the lessons are the same. He said: “We can all think of companies where people are not in the best jobs for their talents. Good leadership recognises that and encourages people to develop those talents.”

Mike has also developed those themes as an author and workshop leader for Henley Management College Programmes, developed case studies and residential schools for The Open University MBA and also worked with the University of Warwick Business School on the Practice of Management for MBAs.

A motivational conference speaker, he has delivered keynote sessions at conferences throughout Europe, and said: “One of my messages is that great leaders know their strengths and allow other people to develop theirs. They are decisive and fl exible people. They have a self-awareness about their weaknesses, know what they do well and create the environment where others develop and perform to the best that their skills allow.”

He believes that the need for good leadership is acute at the moment as businesses deal with the effects of recession and public sector cutbacks.

Mike said: “Just as happened in the late eighties and early nineties, people adopt the Survivor Syndrome. They survive the redundancies and the restructuring and they think ‘oh, my God, I could be next’ That creates an insecurity and you end up with people who think good management is simply cutting costs and making things more effi cient. Good leaders are the ones who can see beyond that. I’ll happily provide a short free seminar for any organization that wants to create this alternative mood.”

MikeFiszer

“We can all think of companies where people are not in the best jobs for their talents. Good leadership recognises that and encourages people to develop those talents.”

BC issue 11.indd 23 25/5/11 09:47:58

Coverfeature


Edinburgh is now being seriously considered as the home of the UK’s first Green Investment Bank, as a result of a campaign being led by the Chamber of Commerce.Heavy hitters from the fields of asset finance, utility generation and financial services have rallied to Edinburgh’s cause- arguing that the city is best placed to deliver the projects that

will kick start the UK’s renewable energy future.

The city’s campaign was launched at Westminster, where a business case prepared by accountants Grant Thornton was presented to MPs and formally accepted by the Secretary of State for Scotland Michael Moore MP.

Later, at a private meeting, the Business Secretary Vince Cable listened to Edinburgh’s case- and followed up this briefing with a visit to meet with Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce members on April 17, where he learned of the gathering momentum behind Edinburgh’s case.

The commitment to establish a Green Investment Bank is included in the Coalition Agreement. It is not a bank, as such, but an enabling body, using public money tactically to leverage large-scale investment, working in partnership with international investors and corporations.

The Government’s intention is to establish GIB with £3 billion of funding, but with the aim of leverage a further £20-30 billion of investment with which to usher in the UK’s renewable revolution, primarily in offshore wind.

“Locating the Green Investment Bank in Edinburgh will, at a stroke, position this city as the renewable energy capital of Europe,” says Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce President Robert Carr. “That’s how significant this decision is.”

The campaign has been energetically led by Chamber Chief Executive Ron Hewitt, who has galvanised cross-party support from politicians, including Edinburgh MPs Mike Crockart and Mark Lazarowicz; energy giants, including Scottish and Southern Energy and Scottish Power; financial institutions, including RBS and Lloyds Banking Group; international investors including Execution Noble and the Swedish Export Investment Corporation; as well as a broad coalition of professional services firms and agencies, including our leading Universities, the City of Edinburgh Council and Scottish Enterprise. A full list of official partners of the campaign is on page 25.

Ron Hewitt said: “This decision is game changing for Edinburgh. Although the initial investment is GIB is relatively small at an estimated 40-50 jobs and a £3 billion budget over 3-5 years, it is the clustering effect that is so important, because dealmakers in renewable energy will come to Edinburgh to do business- and Edinburgh will become the fulcrum for investment in a low carbon future.

“However, this campaign is far from won. There is much more work to do in building Edinburgh’s case and ensuring that the decision-makers in the department for Business, Innovation and Skills, and in the Treasury, understand that Edinburgh’s case in every way superior to London’s and not just a plucky bid from the Provinces.”

An announcement on the bank’s establishment and location is expected from the Government in May or June.

Edinburgh’s campaign to win the green investment bank gathers strength

BC issue 11.indd 24 25/5/11 09:48:15

June/July2011 BC 25

The Strength of Edinburgh’s Case

“Scottish Enterprise and Scottish Development International are working closely with Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce to develop a compelling business case to help attract the Green Investment Bank HQ function to Scotland. Scotland is an obvious frontrunner given its competitive advantage in renewable energy and low carbon technologies, unrivalled natural resources, pipeline of investment opportunities and strengths in fi nancial services. ”

JillFarrellRegional Operations DirectorScottish Enterprise

“The clean energy sector requires both capital and know-how and GIB will be called upon to play a unique enabling role on the path to commercialisation in the sector. For these reasons it matters where the GIB is located. Edinburgh is at the heart of a region with a unique combination of industry and fi nancial capability and in our view is ideally placed to host the GIB.”

nathangoodePartnerGrant Thornton UK LLP

“Charlotte Square sees the Green Investment Bank as a key contributor to the fi nancial landscape of Edinburgh and, as active investors in renewables, ethical and socially responsible assets, we see GIB as the key vehicle to expand this offering”

stephenWebsterChief Operating Offi cerCharlotte Square Managers Ltd

“The City of Edinburgh Council and this administration is delighted to support the initiative led by the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce to secure the Green Investment Bank for Edinburgh. It would seem natural that Edinburgh is the chosen location, due to its a unique combination of strength in fi nancial services and investment management, and a clear desire to be at the forefront of renewable energy and carbon reduction initiatives.”

tomBuchananCouncillorThe City of Edinburgh Council

“Establishing the headquarters of the Green investment Bank in the vibrant fi nancial community of Edinburgh will give it easy access both to the rich resource of Scotland’s University system and established industry players. The Green Investment Bank will get lost in London while Edinburgh, with these three ingredients, assures it stature and prominence. Established in Edinburgh, the Green Investment Bank has the potential to change the United Kingdom from being a laggard in Green investment into a European leader.”

AngusMacphersonHead of Investment BankingEspirito Santo Investment Bank, Incorporating Execution Noble

“Edinburgh makes a compelling case to be the location for the Green Investment Bank. It sits at the centre of Europe’s greatest renewable energy resource, has been chosen as a location by numerous developers, and has an abundance of indigenous skills needed to lead a vital part of the UK’s strategy for meeting the 20:20 targets. Quayle Munro chose to build its own renewable energy team in Edinburgh for these very same reasons and it has been a great success. I am convinced it would be the same for the Green Investment Bank”.

robCormieManaging DirectorQuayle Munro

“We strongly support the campaign to locate the Green Investment Bank in Edinburgh. Scotland already has an established fi nancial services sector and the low carbon energy industry continues to expand rapidly. Billions of pounds of green energy investments have been announced in Scotland in recent years and major global energy companies are coming here to do business. Edinburgh would be the ideal location for this important new fi nancial institution.”

gordonMacgregorEnergy & Environmental DirectorScottish Power

We’re Banking on EdinburghEdinburgh offers technical and fi nancial credentials that will enable the Green Investment Bank (GIB) to make a quick and long lasting contribution to the Clean Energy sector.

Because of its rapidly developing clean energy hub, Scotland is a magnet for clean energy and related sectors. The area surrounding Edinburgh has a deep concentration of higher Education and research establishments, with a major concentration of leading edge R&D in the clean energy related sector. The city’s hinterland has an unrivalled concentration of industry skills and experience in both clean energy and in oil and gas. This, together with the support services that have built up around the clean energy sector, provide GIB with a well established critical mass of activity into which GIB can immediately tap, thereby accelerating commercialisation at reduced risk.

Edinburgh is ranked the fourth largest fi nancial centre in Europe in terms of equity assets and the city operates globally as an international fi nancial services centre – the only UK location outside London to do so. It is a city where GIB can develop a deep understanding of and close partnership with the clean energy sector with the goal of quickly playing an interactive role with industry and fi nance.

Edinburgh’s positional advantages are unique. It is at the heart of clean energy activity and readily accessible to the rest of the UK as well as globally. As a destination for clean energy in the UK, it is a natural location for GIB.

Peterspitzer

“Edinburgh is quickly becoming a focus for the renewable energy sector in the UK – it is a logical choice for the location of the Green Investment Bank with its strong fi nancial community and range of experienced advisors in legal and technical disciplines“

scottBlackDirectorFWB Ltd

BC issue 11.indd 25 25/5/11 09:48:42

April/May2011 BC 27

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June/July2011 BC 29

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BC issue 11.indd 28 25/5/11 09:49:06

June/July2011 BC 29

sPeCiAlFeAture

PROPERTY INVESTMENT INSIGHT

As many are aware, gross rental yields, or that percentage of its capital value a property can be expected to generate in one year in terms of rental income, have been decreasing over the past ten years or so as capital values have soared, outstripping rents.

Although Edinburgh is made up of many ‘micro markets’ with their own returns, generally speaking the yield on quality central properties are 3.5%- 5.5%.

However, in recent times we have seen a disproportionate drop in interest rates relative to the fall in certain bands of house prices, resulting in a slightly perceived increase in yield and, for the fi rst time in years, a reasonable gross profi t on rental yields: provided that the property is not over geared (high mortgage:equity, or negative equity). These tend to be higher end properties and are worth hanging on to .

Whilst it is still possible to achieve what can be considered respectable investment returns of around the 6% mark, these properties are becoming rare and must be cherrypicked with care. Nobody is better placed to advise you with greater accuracy than a switched-on letting & management agency. At present 5 plus bedroom HMO properties in particular in central/improving areas are performing reasonably well in terms of rental yield. The average rent for a bedroom in a HMO fl at is at present £335PCM. However, If at all possible, HMO properties should if at all possible be let to families/couples of professions seeking a bit of space: if the property in question is a student rental without possiblity of being anything else.

We see some owners occasionally considering giving superb period properties "the HMO" treatment. Everyone is more knowledgeable about the realities of HMO letting these days and are aware that requirements result in absurdly high expenses. We strongly believe that any quality period property should be looked at carefully before embarking on this route.

It is our heartfelt conviction that there exists now a solid opportunity in a niche Market; that of one bedroom traditional build central properties in certain undervalued relatively central areas.

It is a trend we noticed a year plus ago: there exists a sector of young professional tenants earning respectable wsges, who may have £10k but not the £30-40k in savings for deposit, in order to obtain a mortgage rate low enough to warrant stepping off the letting train.

These erstwhile fi rst time buyers represent what I envision as a great head of steam of demand for a certain type of property, namely that which we are sourcing for investment landlords and renovating according to this demand, along with those on our existing portfolio.

I see the format as a type of one bedroom property, available chesply, that meets both the current rental demand and produces healthy rental returns, yet will fi t the bill when mortgage products become more credible.

As agents we now source these one bed properties with a thirst, as we are well placed to see that many see only the high gross incomes of HMO units, but over the years the costs are prohibitive.

We have been pushing for some time to bring our portfolio, and new clients properties in this direction and are becoming specialists at this type of investment management. Simply put, too many agents have advised landlords to provide everything, producing an Undersupply of unfurnished and a culture of high transience, therefore higher costs of rent. Our model is a totally unfurnished 1 bed property, not a studio, stripped fl oors/ 'green hardwood' (we prefer bamboo as it is a sustainable, quick growing grass-acts like a good hardwood fl oor in 12mm), neutral decor, GCH system, modular DG, solid little kitchen, gas burners, dishwashers. We fi nd that many inexpensive extras, good material in small quantities ie where it matters. Very low repairs, nothing to replace/repair but White goods

These units make around £6000 gross per year, yet not so long ago have been selling for £127k. Good returns immediately , supplying a large rental Market who are tomorrows buyers. It is not inconceivable that they will appreciate by 20% as soon as the mortgages become realistic.

MichaelYoungManager, Edinburgh Spaces Ltd6 Waterloo Place

Edinburgh: a special case?Prospects for Income and Growth: a letting agents perspective; a time to buy?

A Sales Agents / Solicitors perspective Much as I would like to tell you that things are on the up the fi gures will struggle to support this. ESPC fi gures for the quarter to the end of April disclose a drop in average house prices for the Edinburgh area of around 4.2% compared to the same period last year.

However we are now 3 years into the property dip and as I am constantly reminding those clients that I visit who are looking to sell their home of 10, 15 or 20 years it will still have proved to be a very sound and fi nancially rewarding investment. Investments by their very nature can go up and can go down.

We are currently experiencing the downward trend which means that it is probably the best time to buy property for years, so if you take a sensible long term view there is every chance that it will still work out as the best place to have your money.

Edinburgh’s property market has long been regarded as the jewel in the Scottish crown and that isn’t going to change because it suddenly goes through a bad spell. When the market comes back, as it inevitably will, Edinburgh’s sparkle will also return.

WilsonhunterPartnerfor and on behalf of Hunters Residential

Despite the warnings in the press we would be of the opinion that most areas in Edinburgh will continue to see reasonable growth over the coming years, at worst a period of stasis for some. Of course, growth is not something to be relied upon – better to hunt down a decent rental yield that will cover costs and look to the long term for returns through appreciation, for in a world of scarcity land values ultimately go one way only- up. The trick is to be in position and properly advised when the wind changes.

BC issue 11.indd 29 25/5/11 09:49:07

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BC issue 11.indd 31 25/5/11 09:49:33


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BC issue 11.indd 32 25/5/11 09:49:35

June/July2011 BC 33

Figures in the latest CBI/PwC Financial Services Survey, for the three months to March, showed that firms considered the level of their business as only slightly below normal, the best result since the financial crisis began in September 2007.

Asked how their business volumes fared in the three months to March, 33% said that volumes rose and 11% said they fell.

Growth was particularly strong for business with private individuals with volumes rising at the fastest pace since December 1996. Growth was slower for business with industrial and commercial companies, financial institutions and overseas customers.

Banking saw little change in business volumes over the three months, but reported that they were normal, which comes after three years of well below normal levels of activity.

Unlike banks, building societies’ business grew for the third quarter in succession but continues to be regarded as well below normal levels.

In Finance Houses, business volumes fell unexpectedly, leading to higher average costs per transaction and a fall in profitability this quarter.

The survey revealed a strong feeling that the remainder of the year would see growth across many sectors.

Ian McCafferty, CBI Chief Economic Adviser, said: “A

third quarter of strong volume growth shows the financial services recovery is building strength. It is particularly good news that firms consider their level of business to be only slightly below normal for the first time since the financial crisis began in 2007.

“While business with private individuals has again shown the fastest growth, business with companies also shows some signs of improvement. Firms’ profitability has improved due to higher incomes and another big drop in the value of non-performing loans.”

Numbers employed fell for the second quarter in a row. Staff turnover rose, and is expected to be only marginally higher next quarter. Staff costs, as a proportion of total costs, are expected to fall further next quarter.

Firms are planning to invest more over the next 12 months across land, buildings and information technology. Plans for investment in marketing in the coming year are seeing their biggest rise since December 1993.

However, the largest proportion of firms since the survey began in 1989 says that statutory legislation and regulation is likely to limit their ability to raise levels of business over the next 12 months. Nevertheless, concern over a further worsening in financial markets fell back in the survey.

Andrew Gray, UK banking

leader at PwC, said: “There is encouraging evidence that the banks are adjusting expectations in line with what constitutes the ‘new normal’. Despite a strong round of annual results, they are increasingly realistic about the challenges ahead - particularly in terms of demand and regulatory obstacles.

“While they report near normal business levels for the first time since 2007, their actual activity is way below that seen before the financial crisis.

“Income levels and business volumes are stubbornly flat yet profitability is increasing strongly as declining average spreads are offset by steady costs and declining non-performing loan values.

“Other indicators are mixed. For example, while headcounts are falling, advertising spend and technology investment are growing.”

Encouraging signs for financial sector recoveryThe UK financial services is showing signs of a strong recovery with recent statistics showing growth for the third quarter in a row.

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BC issue 11.indd 33 25/5/11 09:49:37

34 BC June/July2011

They say necessity is the mother of invention and that’s certainly true in the case of innovative, Edinburgh-based dog crèche, Citidogs. After waving goodbye to a high-powered career in the oil industry, Sandy found herself relocating to Edinburgh accompanied by her canine companions, Molly and Archie. She faced the familiar dilemma of what to do with her dogs whilst she worked, and that’s when she met business partner and canine expert, Sarah McLean. As Sandy explains: “We realised there was a gap in the market for a complete service for dog owners. As a customer, I mapped out the problems and anxieties I faced and then we built the service around that.”

Client-centredapproach

Launching Citidogs in March 2010, 80% of the duo’s clients are working professionals. But Citidogs is much more than just a dog-walking service. “We didn’t want to be just another dog business,” explains Sandy. “By joining my business skills with Sarah’s background in animal welfare, we’ve created a unique brand – offering exceptional care for exceptional dogs. As well as walking the dogs, we offer training and socialisation and we’re very client-centric. Our clients need to be able to trust us and understand that we are reliable and compassionate. That’s the reason that we’re a crèche – we offer the same care to dogs as you would to children.”

Starting out with just 11 dogs, Citidogs now has 85 clients. The attention to detail and the high ratio of staff to dogs, has seen the pair achieve their 18 month goal in just 10 months. Poised to open crèche number two this summer, there are plans for further expansion down the line, Sandy explains, through the support she’s received from RBS.

Phenomenalservice

“They’ve been absolutely phenomenal,” Sandy explains. “I’d banked with RBS personally since moving to Edinburgh and on the strength of that, I was happy to trust them with my business banking.

“Our RBS relationship manager, Scott Rylance, really took the time to understand what the business was and our ambitions, so he’s been able to offer good solutions. He’s also aware of the time constraints we work under – it’s no use talking when you’re surrounded by nine dogs waiting for you to throw the ball – so, often, I’ll email him a question in the evening, and he responds to me fi rst thing, before work.”

responsivesolutions

Whilst the fast growth of the business has been exciting and rewarding, it has brought its own challenges. With 60% of clients requiring their dogs to be picked up from home, Citidogs’ ‘Bark & Ride’ service grew rapidly. “We soon reached the stage where we needed to buy another van to manage demand or we couldn’t operate,” says Sandy. “I called Scott, who immediately offered us several options and made it happen in just a couple of weeks.”

As with most new businesses, cashfl ow was also an issue, RBS put in place an overdraft facility and a business credit card to enable Citidogs to manage its income and outgoings more sustainably.

Describing themselves as “ambitious, but hugely compassionate”, Sandy and Sarah’s enthusiasm is infectious and is combined

with a good dose of levelheaded business sense. But, as the pair acknowledge: “We couldn’t have got where we are without the support of RBS.”

tofindoutmore…For further information, please contact:

Scott RylanceThe Royal Bank of Scotlandon Tel: 01315236078or Mobile: 07765615942www.rbs.co.uk

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It’s a Dog’s LifeIt all started with a conversation on a doorstep and is a far cry from Sandy Maxwell-Forbes’ previous career in the oil industry, but the success of doggy crèche, Citidogs, shows that it wasn’t a step that was completely barking mad.

Customer Quote

“RBS took the time to understand the business and our ambitions, so it’s been able to offer good solutions”Sarah McLean & Sandy Maxwell-Forbes, Citidogs.

June/July2011 BC 35

BC issue 11.indd 34 25/5/11 09:49:39

Goinginternational

June/July2011 BC 35

somesurprisingscottishexports

Whisky, salmon, oil, – all of these spring to mind when you think of exports from Scotland – but what about some products and services that don’t spring to mind quite so quickly:

n acrylic teeth

n electronic falcons

n road cleaning machines

n cats and dogs (don’t worry its all legitimate and not cruel in any way)

n prosthetic limbs

n christmas trees (for use in the oil industry)

n printers blankets

n environmentally friendly coffins

n teabag paper

n silicon breast implants

n disposable surgical gowns

n cigarette papers

n tourism consultancy in post conflict countries

n See you Jimmy hats

All of these products and services and many many more have been exported from Scotland over recent years, renowned for high quality goods the powerful Scottish brand works throughout the world.

International business development is extremely important for companies wanting to increase business opportunities and safeguard their future. Through engagement with Smart Exporter, a new international trade skills programme, designed to improve the export readiness of businesses you can access a range of free and subsidised products and services. Whether your your business has 3 or 300 employees, Smart Exporter has a range of products and services to get you thinking and operating globally.

Exporting does not have to be costly or risky. Through support from the Smart Exporter programme, our export experts can help you identify your key markets, introduce you to key contacts, assist with your strategy development and provide support and guidance on key topics eg: paperwork, finance and cultural considerations to improve the export readiness of your

organisation. Regardless of whether you are an SME that is new to exporting or are a medium to large company that has exported to date, Smart Exporter can provide free or subsidised support to increase your skills and knowledge in international business development.

Ambitious companies are more likely to succeed if they understand, and are better prepared for, the global opportunities and issues faced in international markets.

To find out more about Smart Exporter visit www.smartexporter.co.uk or call 08000191953

How good is your international trade knowledge?

BC issue 11.indd 35 25/5/11 09:49:43


Specialist Linen Hire & LaundryFor the catering, hotel & leisure industries

Johnsons Stalbridge Linen Services t: 0800 093 9933 [email protected] www.stalbridge-linen.com

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Consultancy, Training, and Mentoring in Software Development, Database Systems, and E-Commerce.

Our team has over 12 years of commercial experience in software development, creating innovative solutions for clients and partners across a broad range of markets.

Tel: 0131 208 0755Email: [email protected]

Web: www.numeriq.co.uk

Company Registered in Scotland: SC247150

BC issue 11.indd 36 25/5/11 09:49:52

InthespotlightIntheCompanyname:theroyalhighlandandAgriculturalsocietyofscotland(rhAss)

Who?Mrstephenhutt,Chiefexecutive

Website:www.rhass.org.uk

June/July2011 BC 37

1.Whatwereyoudoingbetween10and12thismorning?With this being my fi rst week in the job much of the time is taken up with meeting the team. This morning I met with the Director responsible for the Highland Centre Ltd – the part of the business that manages the letting of the exhibition and conference space on Scotland’s National Showground at Ingliston. It is a tremendous asset, adjacent to an international airport, a few hundred yards from UK motorway network and only minutes from Scotland’s capital.

2.Whatdoyouseeasyourjob’sbiggestchallenge?The biggest challenge is to guide through the 20 year Masterplan which will see major development and expansion to the portfolio of exhibition space, conference facilities, hotels and supporting offi ces. Alongside this will be to develop the Society’s overall impact estimated to benefi t the Scottish economy by over £250m a year.

3.Whatdoyouconsideryourbiggestbusinesstriumph?Sometimes the events that give you the most satisfaction are not always what others would see as successes or triumphs. I have played an enabling role in business growth and also set up new business units that have been very successful. The common thread is to make sure that people achieve their potential and that you create the environment and structure that allows and encourages success – not always fi rst time round!

4.doyouhaveanymoney-savingbusinesstips?Developing long-term business relationships – ones that give mutual benefi t and allow all parties to maintain fl exibility and engender genuine mutuality.

5.Whatdoyoubelievearethe3keystagesonyourcareerladder?I believe that an important knowledge base is a crucial start for any career – in

my case this was accountancy. This gives a good frame of reference. It is then vital to make sure that the experience you gain, particularly early in your career, gives a good overall balance – perhaps avoiding over-specialising. Finally, I believe it is vital to develop a strong but simple set of business processes that can be applied to any situation.

6.Wheredoyoustandonwork/lifebalance?Not an easy one! It varies but I try to make sure I take quality time away from work. When you are away from work you should be completely away – shared time is not effective for either one.

7.Whatdoyouliketodoinyoursparetime?I have a young family so time with them is important, we recently moved into an old farmhouse so there is a fair bit of time and effort going into that. I also enjoy sport – watching rugby and I do a bit of running and cycling. I am also actively involved in my local church.

8.Whatqualitiesdoyouneedtoseeinyouremployees?Important qualities include commitment and loyalty – not in a blind way but in a constructive and supportive manner. Like most people I prefer not to have surprises, so an open working environment is one I like to foster.

9.inbusiness,isitmoreimportanttobelikedorsuccessful?Not sure that these are mutually exclusive; sustainable business has to be benefi cial for both parties. At the very least I believe that successful business can be achieved whilst still maintaining respect.

10.Whatistheonepieceofadviceyouwouldgivetootherstryingtoreachthetop?Maintain a set of principles and be true to those.

11.Whoisyourhero?There are many people I admire, but I guess I would have to say that my father has always impressed me because he

stayed true to his principles even when that meant, from a personal standpoint, he had to give certain things up rather than compromise what he felt to be right.

12.Anybusiness(orother)projectsyouwouldliketoplug?The Royal Highland and Agricultural Society delivers a signifi cant amount of its charitable objectives via the Royal Highland Education Trust (RHET). The activities of this organisation includes ; taking children to farms, taking farmers to schools and providing educational resources plus the educational element of the Royal Highland Show. Last year they had contact with almost 73,000 children – that’s 1 out of every 8 school children in Scotland.

13.otherthanyourcurrentposition,whatwouldbeyourdreamjob?Dream job would be a test driver for TVR motor cars!

14.Who(livingordead)wouldyouinvitetoafantasydinnerparty?It would be fascinating to have dinner with Winston Churchill who knew the value of “easily being satisfi ed with the very best”.

15.outsideofbusiness,whatisthemostimportantthinginyourlife?Most important is my wife and family – brings great perspective to everything else!

BC issue 11.indd 37 25/5/11 09:50:08

City&World

From another comes the political news. The new Parliament is now setting a policy agenda that will define the next phase of devolution. Will we embark upon a radical course of reform, or will it be steady as we go?

No politician can hope to influence the short term economic news as it is revealed weeks or months after the activity it is supposed to represent. We wait with bated breath for each piece of data. All that can be said is that the picture is highly uncertain. The manufacturing surge that characterised the second half of 2010 seems to be subsiding, to be replaced (we hope) by tentative service sector growth.

The unfolding story is so important to our prospects. The impact of April’s tax rises and spending cuts (quite modest in Scotland) is still unknown. We can not yet rule out a situation where stubbornly rising commodity prices necessitate interest rate rises that choke off the recovery.

Nonetheless, the government is right to emphasise mastering the deficit. A more expansionary fiscal approach (such as that

followed in the US) would in Britain lead to higher borrowing costs and a long term debt problem that would do more economic damage over time.

The Scottish election aired some of the big issues that confront us locally, but it remains to be seen whether our political leadership is prepared to tackle the entrenched structural weaknesses in the economy. In contrast to the short-term big picture numbers, these are questions that we have the power locally to answer.

The main problem with the Scottish economy is low productivity within the public sector. For too long we have lived a feather bedded existence where high public spending has negated any urgency on this issue. In essence Scotland’s North Sea revenue is recycled via the Barnett Formula into government spending that is 15% or so higher than the UK average with nothing much to show for it in terms of improved outputs.

Such profligacy is not just wasteful, it actually harms the private sector by crowding out the availability of capital and skilled labour.

In a way, therefore, Scotland has fallen into the same trap as many other oil economies.

A healthier approach would be to use the oil / Barnett dividend (while it lasts) to invest in infrastructure and to create a competitive tax regime that encourages corporate investment. The flip side of this has to be higher productivity in the public sector to at least UK average levels so that spending on health, education and the rest can gradually come down as a proportion of GDP without harming front line services.

In the meantime the Chamber has been doing its best to aid recovery by campaigning for the radical changes we need as well as lobbying for Edinburgh as a magnet for investment. For example, we have been taking a lead in persuading the government to establish the Green Investment Bank here. Cementing Edinburgh’s position as the UK hub for renewable energy would be a great step forward for economic growth and diversification.

Where next?We are entering a critical phase in the development of the Scottish economy. From one direction comes the flow of macro economic data - how exactly will the pattern of recovery unfold?


BC issue 11.indd 38 25/5/11 09:50:12

sPeCiAlFeAture

June/July2011 BC 39

The Act creates new offences in respect of the following:-

n Promising or offering a bribe.

n Requesting, agreeing to receive or accepting a bribe.

n Bribing a foreign public offi cial.

n A corporate offence of “failure to prevent bribery” by persons associated with a business.

Offences 1, 2 & 3 are relevant to individuals; offence 4 to companies.

A company can be found guilty of an offence if a person associated with that company bribes another person, intending to obtain or retain business or a business advantage for the company. The offence can be committed in the UK or overseas.

It is a defence for the company to prove that it had in place adequate procedures designed to prevent persons associated with it from undertaking such conduct.

A person is ‘associated’ with a company for the purposes of the Act if they perform services for or on behalf of the company. The capacity in which they perform the services does not matter. This includes employees, agents and subsidiaries.

In relation to what constitutes a ‘bribe’, this is defi ned broadly, and includes promising or suggesting (as well as actually giving) fi nancial or other types of advantage. For the purposes of the section 1 offence (promising or offering a bribe), bribes offered to persons performing functions in private businesses are caught, as well as public sector offi cials.

A company convicted of failing to prevent bribery is liable on conviction to an unlimited fi ne. A company being prosecuted for this offence may also be debarred from public contracts under the Public Contracts Regulations in Scotland and England & Wales.

PreventingBriberyThe approach that companies take to the Act will be determined by a number of factors, including: the industry in which they operate, the extent to which they obtain contracts through public procurement and tendering processes; involvement with overseas contractors and governments; and, the reliance which they place on agents and subsidiaries when entering into contracts.

Prior to the introduction of the legislation, companies should asses the risks posed by their particular circumstances. These risks should then be incorporated into a robust anti-corruption policy which has the support of the directors, but which is also proportionate to the company and workable in practice. Having put such a policy in place, the policy should be monitored and enforced, and adequate records kept of implementation.

If you would like to discuss any of the issues raised in this article, assistance in drafting an anti-corruption policy, or help in amending existing contracts to introduce effective anti-corruption obligations, please contact me to arrange a free initial consultation on:-

01312471260austin.fl [email protected]

Your Guide to the Bribery Act

The Act received Royal Assent on 8 April 2010 and will come into force on 1 July 2011. It introduces signifi cant changes to the law on bribery, replacing the previous piecemeal statutory and common law with defi nitive and far-reaching legislation.

By Austin FlynnCorporate Law PartnerMorton Fraser LLP

BC issue 11.indd 39 25/5/11 09:50:16


PROFESSIONAL IT SERVICES WITH A PERSONALITYPROFESSIONAL IT SERVICES WITH A PERSONALITYWITH A PERSONALITY

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n Support services tailored to your business n Proactive monitoring and reporting n Servers, virtualisation and storagen Unifi ed Communications and collaboration n Networking and security services

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Children WeddingsChildrenChildren WeddingsWeddings

BC issue 11.indd 40 25/5/11 09:50:27

One thing that comes out strongly from the report is that fi rms who buy “a fl eet of shiny new iPads”, instead of properly safeguarding their business against the risk of confi dential data loss, are in danger of seeing things go seriously wrong when it comes to the security of their enterprise.

Virtual Stream’s co-directors husband and wife team Russell and Tracy Robertson and SCDI offi cials surveyed over 300 companies, employing 50-to-500 employees across all sectors including manufacturing, oil and gas, fi nance, transport and retail.

Tech expert Russell explains: “We found that data loss is the biggest irritation. Yet investing in data recovery and business continuity plans came out as the lowest chosen IT strategy.

“Such disaster recovery may appear a less visible investment than a fl eet of shiny new iPads, but serves a far more serious purpose.Especially if you fi nd yourself losing millions of pounds worth of data.”

One attendee at the report launch Douglas Rintoul, a partner at Johnston Carmichael, said that regulations should be tightened up to force business and commerce to take greater care of their data.

I recently interviewed Phil Smith, the Scots vice president and chief executive of Cisco UK, who says tech developments are all wrapped up in next generation communications as a platform for innovation.

Collectively, a no tech brainer really when you think about it...

Asktheexpert

GetwithITBy Bill MageeScottish Business Technology Writer of the Year

June/July2011 BC 41

q:i’vebeenaskedtoimprovetheprocessesmyteamuse,toensuretheyarefi tforpurpose.Wheredoistart?

Bryan Leslie

A:Process improvement starts with getting clear on why you need to improve; for example, are you looking to improve the customer experience, reduce cost, reduce turnaround time, eliminate errors, etc.

Once clear on the purpose, there are fi ve stages to process improvement:

1.document: draw a process “map” of the current way of working;

2.Validate:check the map of the current process is accurate;

3.Analyse: explore the map of the current process, and identify any areas of concern and potential improvements;

4.improve:agree what changes you will actually implement and draw a revised map of the new process;

5.Control: manage and control the implementation of the changes.

A very important (and often overlooked) aspect to process improvement is for the person or team managing the project to have excellent interpersonal communication skills, and the ability to understand team dynamics. This is so they can build strong working relationships with all the stakeholders, as their input will be crucial to accurately “mapping” the current processes, and identifying possible improvements.

Chamber Business Solutions provide a range of training and consulting solutions for process improvement, including in-house and open one-day training courses and specialised coaching programmes.

Please see www.chamberbusinesssolutions.co.uk for more information, or contact Jamie Lovie on 01312213191.

Illuminating insights into business and commerce technology needs are evident in a groundbreaking IT survey, staged jointly by researchers at the Scottish Council for Development and Industry and IT consultancy, Virtual Stream.

BryanleslieManager, Chamber Business Solutions,Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce

BC issue 11.indd 41 25/5/11 09:50:30


People Scotland is a Social Enterprise established to help Public, Voluntary, Private and other Social Enterprise organisations meet the people challenges faced as a result of the current financial climate, while helping to mitigate the impact on communities of significant job losses and reduced statutory services.

We achieve this by designing and delivering socially responsible strategies for organisations experiencing redundancies, with a view to improved outcomes for the individual and their community. These are based around an awareness of health and well-being, understanding the current job market and the need to keep individuals engaged professionally, socially and economically while they seek to secure new employment.

At the same, time we provide a single point of access to some of Scotland and the wider UK’s leading talent, knowledge and expertise, helping organisations achieve the change needed at the pace required. We posses the country’s only cross - sector Interim Management talent pool and a genuine UK - wide Executive Search capability.

Crucially we deliver our services not as a large consultancy but through people; the natural network of highly qualified, like minded individuals and organisations that exists across Scotland and the UK able to provide

the highly informed thinking required to meet the needs and challenges of a truly diverse client base.

People Scotland is simply committed to achieving better outcomes. We firmly believe that to achieve these services must not only be highly informed and therefore highly effective, but should have the concept of social responsibility at their core. To this end we offer our clients a range of products and services that are not only leading edge in terms of matching current market need, but are delivered in a socially responsible way . . . through Social Enterprise.

Ian ToddDirector People Scotland

People Scotlandwww.peoplescotland.org.uk “Quality people delivering better outcomes”

Royal Highland Centre attracts VisitScotland expo back to EdinburghThe countdown is on to Scotland’s largest travel trade expo’s return to Edinburgh. After a five year absence, VisitScotland has announced that next year’s expo will be held at the Royal Highland Centre from the 25th to 26th April 2012.

The expo, Scotland’s only business to business travel trade event, will bring together almost 1,000 international and UK buyers at the Royal Highland Centre on the outskirts of Edinburgh.

A collaboration of organisations including the Royal Highland Centre and DEMA secured the event which offers a great opportunity for Edinburgh and the Lothians to showcase its world class tourism and visitor experience offering to promote the capital to all sectors of the travel industry. The economic benefits to the city are estimated to be £1.7 million.

Archie Glendinning, director of the Royal Highland Centre said:

“The VisitScotland expo is a fantastic opportunity for Edinburgh and the surrounding areas to showcase its world class tourism and visitor experience offering to people from around the world and the Centre will be a key part of that.

“The team at the Centre will be working closely with VisitScotland and DEMA ahead of the event to deliver Edinburgh’s first expo in over five years and to position the city as the host for this event for many years to come.”

To find out more, please visit www.visitscotlandexpo2012.com

BC issue 11.indd 42 25/5/11 09:50:35

June/July2011 BC 43

Competence in ManagementThe need for sharp, fl exible, focused education, skills and training at a high level is strongly recognised. Professional Development Awards (PDAs) are designed to develop and deliver these skills.Ideal for workforce development, they are quick and cost effective to deliver. PDAs have been designed by the Scottish Qualifi cations Authority (SQA) – Scotland’s national body for qualifi cations - and are backed by our world-renowned excellence in developing and quality-assuring qualifi cations.

They develop specialist skills applicable at all stages of career development and are aligned to National Occupational Standards (NOS) and/or professional body requirements. They clearly support Continuing Professional Development and are recognised on UK and European Qualifi cations Frameworks as well as on the Scottish Credit and Qualifi cations Framework (SCQF).

PDAs are available in an increasing range of subject areas supported by continuous partnership work with employers and industry. Entry to the PDAs is fl exible and can be based on formal qualifi cations or experience, the college or training provider delivering the award can advise on this. Some awards may be offered on a part-time, open or distance learning basis.

A new suite of six PDAs in Management have been developed and are jointly certifi cated with the Chartered Management Institute (CMI).

All of these qualifi cations are made up of SVQ Units and designed to enable candidates to develop and achieve competence in a specifi c area of management work. They provide recognition for management competence achieved by candidates in their work as a manager. And they meet the needs of candidates with different experiences and different managerial responsibilities.

In addition, the PDAs allow for progression within the SVQ framework and the SCQF framework of qualifi cations. Candidates will also benefi t from the development of generic skills across the whole range of managerial work

The six PDAs in Management range from SCQF level 8 to level10

n PDA in Managing Self and the Work of Others at SCQF level 8

n PDA in Leadership at SCQF level 8

n PDA in Managing Finances at SCQF level 8

n PDA in Managing Projects and Business at SCQF level 9

n PDA in Planning and Implementing Change at SCQF level 10

n PDA in Leading Change at SCQF level 10

The Units that make up these PDAs in Management have been developed by the Management Standards Centre (MSC). The MSC is an employer-led organisation which champions management and leadership and is the government recognised body responsible for the development and on-going enhancement of the National Occupational Standards.

Candidates achieving this qualifi cation will have demonstrated that their work meets these national standards. They will also be contributing to their own future and to that of the organisation they work for.

More information about PDAs in Management is available from SQA’s website www.sqa.org.ukor email [email protected]

BC issue 11.indd 43 25/5/11 09:50:47

Gettingstarted


q1:tellusabitaboutyourbusiness?Ticket Scotland.net is the first in a group of specialist tourism portals. We are developing exclusively for the attractions, activities, events, eateries and tours market. The portals make up a membership website, which offers suppliers a year-round platform to maximise daily yield and increase low season business, whilst providing a one-stop-shop for UK and international visitors and affiliates.

q2:Whatgivesyourbusiness‘thex-factor’?We have created the “Home of Tickets in Scotland” exclusively for the attractions, tours, activities and events markets. It is a group of unique and dynamic website portals with innovative plans to grow and develop in a very interesting way.

q3:Whatmotivatedyoutosetupinbusinessforyourself?I knew the market inside out and felt I had identified a gap, so I set up a pilot. The research was thorough and feedback was excellent, which was really exciting so we took it to market.

q4:Whatdoyoulikemostaboutworkingforyourself?The flexibility and variety of tasks - there is never a day the same which I love. Also, setting your own agenda for the future and the opportunity of building your ideal team.

q5:Whathasbeenyourgreatestbusinesssuccesstodate?I have to say going live with Ticket Scotland.net with a list of partners already on board prior to the launch - it has been a great start.

q6:Whathasbeenyourlowestmoment?The end of a previous business partnership and

starting from scratch - but belief in myself and the business has got me through.

q7:intermsofbusinessachievements,wheredoyouwanttobewithinthenext5years?To be at the helm of the UK’s market leader for online ticketing and gift vouchers in the attractions, tours, activities and events market. Then opening up Europe while retaining the heart of the business by engaging with our customers through our blog reviews, features and social media campaigns.

q8:Whatwouldbeyourtoptiptosomeonethinkingofstartinguptheirownbusiness?You need to be committed and passionate with experience in the industry of your choice, believe in yourself and go for it. Put in the preparation time and create your own clear plan covering the three key points:• How big is your target audience

and who are they?• How will you reach them?• What are your revenue streams?Get a good identity with a strong name and logo. Stay compact in the first instance, network through memberships and create a Social Media platform. I thoroughly recommend the evening course at the Social Media Academy, Junior Chamber of Commerce. Above all, believe in yourself!

name:gillianscottBusinessname:ticketscotland.netstartupdate:June2010Website:www.ticketscotland.net

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• Lunch (Buffet Style)

• Barbeque Lunch available for booking for 20 delegates or more

• Afternoon Tea and Coffee served with a Selection of Sorbets and Fresh Fruit

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TheRoyalTerraceHotel

Tel : 0131 557322218-22 Royal Terrace, Edinburgh EH7 5AQ

The Royal Terrace Hotel in central Edinburgh is part of an impressive terrace of prestigious Georgian townhouses, overlooking Scotland’s historic capital.

Combining traditional charm with contemporary luxury, the hotel enjoys a tranquil location on a quiet city street and is only a short walk from Princes Street, George Street and The Royal Mile. Many of our rooms offer spectacular views of either The Firth of Forth or our own private gardens to the rear of the hotel. Facilities include an onsite swimming pool, sauna & steam room. We also offer an exclusive complimentary techno gym with cardiovascular equipment.

Edinburgh meeting venueThe Royal Terrace Hotel offers an excellent central conference venue, and is easily accessed by delegates arriving at Edinburgh Airport or Waverly Train Station. With a variety of meeting space available, you can be sure that we are the ideal venue for your next event.

Full of traditional features, such has high ceilings, ornate cornicing and two large chandeliers, The Balmoral Suite provides stunning views towards the Firth of Forth, large windows providing full natural daylight, blackout facilities, air-conditioning and is able to cater for up to 100 guests in a theatre style. The more intimate Adams Suite can accommodate up to 50 guests and has three sets of floor to ceiling windows, allowing light to flood in. Our dedicated boardroom, The Duke of Edinburgh Suite caters for up to 12 delegates and offers state of the art audio visual equipment and executive black leather chairs. All of our meeting rooms offer free Broadband internet access.

BC issue 11.indd 44 25/5/11 09:51:04

June/July2011 BC 45

www.rcpe.ac.uk/conferencing

Please contact us on or [email protected]

Modern conferencing historic setting

www.rcpe.ac.uk/conferencingwww.rcpe.ac.uk/conferencingScottish charity no. SC009465

Our comprehensive facilities at the Royal College Physicians Edinburgh range lecture theatre to meeting rooms, Great Hall Georgian suite

Choice of spaces for conferences, meetings, dinners receptions for 3–300

Full AV support video conferencing

Stylish central Edinburgh location 9 Queen Street

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Artist

BC issue 11.indd 45 25/5/11 09:51:25

46 BC June/July2011

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BC issue 11.indd 46 25/5/11 09:51:36

New car and commercial vehicle salesMassive UK wide stock of quality used cars and commercials. Ask us about our everyday low pricing policy and the Evans Halshaw price guarantee!

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BC issue 11.indd 47 25/5/11 09:51:41


Jewel & Esk fl ourish at National CompetitionStaff and students from Jewel & Esk College returned victorious from the recent Scot Hot trade show in Glasgow with no less than twenty-two certifi cates gathered across seven different competitive classes, including the future talent kitchen; fl ambé and innovation in pasta.

Scot Hot is the biennial three day trade gathering for those involved in the Scottish hospitality, catering and tourism industries. Bringing together professionals from across the country the event highlights the best in the Scottish industries and showcases new innovations.

The Jewel & Esk team were awarded certifi cates in every class they entered.

Ron McGilp, who was himself awarded in the Sugar Works class, works in the Hospitality & Catering section of Jewel & Esk, said: “This year’s Scot Hot team did really well to compete in so many classes and to return with so many merits and awards.

“We’ve got a great learning environment at Jewel & Esk and whether it’s working in eh15 restaurant & bar or preparing food for staff and students in the Edinburgh food court, our students are working for real on a regular basis. Competing at an event as prestigious as Scot Hot just adds another dimension and exposes the students to what’s going on in the industry.”

eh15: one of a kindeh15 restaurant & bar is on the top fl oor of the Jewel & Esk Club building. Clear from your mind any preconceived idea of a ‘training’ restaurant, eh15 is something else entirely. With stunning views across Arthur’s Seat, eh15 is fast gaining a reputation across Edinburgh as a quality restaurant with a delicious locally sourced menu with a top-class wine list.

The young staff at eh15 work alongside chefs and front of house managers who have industry experience taking in The Royal Scotsman, Tigerlily and cooking for the Queen at Ascot. The eh15 experience, therefore, is fantastic for both diner and student alike.

Maître D Ian Matson, formerly of the QEII, comments, “The emphasis at eh15 is on giving our customers an excellent dining experience. We’ve got many diners who are regulars, including local businesses. We’ve hosted several special events since moving into the new Club buildings in 2008: Burns Suppers, Hogmanay, Valentine’s – they’ve all been sell outs and the fact that our customers come back to us again and again is testament to the quality of the experience and excellent value for money.”

Call 01313447344 to book your table.

Celebrating CreativityCRE:8, home to Jewel & Esk College’s creative courses in music, sound engineering, TV and multimedia, will be hosting an end of year Celebration of Creativity on 16th June.

The evening event allows business representatives to watch a very special showcase of student talent, featuring live music performances and a show reel of TV work.

Anyone from a business in the creative sector who is keen to attend should contact [email protected]

sPeCiAlFeAture

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June/July2011 BC 49

Edinburgh businesses are benefitting from an alliance between 2kt partner Jewel & Esk College and the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce. Working with the Chamber’s Business Advice Team, Jewel & Esk College uses its academic expertise and access to facilities and funding to assist start-up and high-growth companies.

2kt is a collaboration between eight of the east of Scotland’s leading universities and colleges. It is the gateway to over 1,000 sector specific experts and provides businesses with

straightforward and cost effective access to expertise, facilities and funding. With many of the Chamber’s business clients looking to develop innovative products, processes and services, Jewel & Esk College and its 2kt partners can help identify business needs and support their delivery.

To find out more about how 2kt could help your business and the range of clients we have worked with visit www.2kt.org.uk or contact Donald Calder on [email protected]

Partnership supports business

Bliss Hair & Beauty

The salons at Jewel & Esk College’s Edinburgh Campus, have a loyal, expanding clientele, who return regularly for the range of treatments and services.

The beauty therapists are fully qualified students, who are now taking their first steps into the world of business. They take pride in offering a friendly, professional service. Likewise, in Bliss Hair’s Saturday Salon, the

team of fully qualified hairdressing students offer a range of hair services at excellent prices. With a cut and blow dry from just £10, or a one hour hot stone massage just £25, the experience will revitalise your wallet as well as your body and mind.

Both salons are open throughout the summer. Check out the range of treatments at www.jec.ac.uk/the-club/bliss-hair-a-beauty or call 01313447356 to book.

As part of an expanding portfolio of leadership and management services Jewel & Esk College have recently began work on an innovative leadership programme in partnership with Europa Services Ltd, a large property and infrastructure support services company.

Building on their existing management development programme, Europa have now launched ‘Evolve’ which identifies and develops the next generation of senior leaders.

They worked with Jewel & Esk to accredit the programme. The partnership draws on the core talents of both partners, with Europa delivering training which meets their exact business needs whilst Jewel & Esk match this development to existing qualification frameworks and assess the qualifications, adding validity and value.

Participants can now achieve an ILM Level 5 Award in Leadership and Management or a Level 3 Certificate in First Line Management dependent upon their progress.

Sally Clark, Head of Commercial Development at Jewel & Esk, said “This programme demonstrates our ability to provide high level leadership and management support to partners which integrates seamlessly into their commercial framework. This service complements our bespoke leadership and management development work. It’s all part of our drive to listen to what the market wants and to develop innovative solutions quickly.”

Leadership Training

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50 BC June/July2011

The warning from the Scottish Business Crime Centre Liaison Unit of the Scottish Crime and Drugs Enforcement Agency (SCDEA) is based on intelligence from the Scottish Financial Crime Group, The National Anti-Fraud Network and NHS Counter Fraud Services.

The fraud happens when a fraudster poses as a customer, gains control of an account and makes unauthorised transactions. It relates to bank, credit card, email and other service providers.

According to the SCDEA, organised criminals pose as representatives of a genuine supplier company. They send letters, facsimiles and/or emails to accounts payable staff and request that the bank details for genuine supplier companies are changed to bank accounts over which the fraudsters have control. By the time the scam has been detected, the fraudsters have emptied the accounts.

According to the SCDEA, the activity is widespread and has extended to local authorities and other organisations, including private sector companies. The fraudsters:

n Target large supplier companies, possibly using tender documents or publicised creditor lists

n Have called telephone switchboards asking for contact names responsible for authorising payments in order that correspondence is directed to the relevant staff members

n Have requested supplier details such as telephone numbers, presumably to be added to the fictitious requests to add authenticity

n Have telephoned to chase payments, in the hope that checks might not be carried out

n Cited Company Secretary, Finance Directors and other authorised contact details, including signatures, almost certainly having been scanned from published information available from various sources including the internet.

The National Anti-Fraud Network has issued intelligence bulletins to local authorities, having noted that the fraud initially centred on requests to change bank details relating to construction companies frequently engaged on construction projects within council areas. Companies are also at risk because fraudsters can submit fake papers to Companies House and have the details of the director or official address of the company changed.

Businesses can prevent fraudsters from changing their details by registering for the ‘Proof ’ system at Companies House. This means that companies can only change their details online, using a password and confidential authentication code and by using a registered email address. These security measures make it significantly more difficult for fraudsters.

Businesses and organisations can reduce the risk of fraud by measures including:

n Remind staff not to provide genuine supplier companies reference information via the telephone

n Review and verify bank account and single point of contact information for all supplier companies

n If you receive a letter, immediately place it in a suitable document holder to protect it as it may be subject to forensic examination

n Do not use the details supplied in the letter, fax or email to contact the company

n Take steps to ensure that appropriate confirmation is obtained from supplier companies regarding any changes to business bank account information or key business personnel information

n Check all details on any request for change against information already held. This will include company names, contact numbers, company registration numbers, VAT numbers, addresses, web addresses and all email addresses.

n Telephone the contact number for the suppliers head office used on previously paid invoices and confirm the change.

n Contact police if attempted fraud is identified.

For information, you can contact the Scottish Business Crime Centre Liaison Scottish Intelligence Co-ordination Unit and Scottish Crime and Drugs Enforcement Agency on 01506524548

Companies issued with warning about fraud

Businesses have been warned to watch out for a scam which allows criminals to get hold of their bank details.

Businessnews

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The Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce welcomes its latest member companies:Alpha Man LimitedAngela CarrArnatt Abrey Bennett LimitedAther & Co LimitedBack Roads MarketingBrightspace Design Consultant LimitedCaledonian Tree Co. LimitedCarnival ChaosCockburnsCushman & WakefieldDrum Central Edinburgh LimitedEleonorwapler French Translation ServicesEpic Software LimitedEulysis LimitedExecutive ElectricalFlintriverFWB LimitedGourmet Cooking ServicesGrigor Mitchell ArchitectHPD CouriersI Luv LimitedIndependent WomenJewellery Bird LimitedLift FinancialMapix Technologies LimitedMcdowall Consulting LimitedMedicalternativeMorgan + Rose PhotographyMorningside School of MusicNested LimitedPistepals LimitedPlace2Be, ThePraefectus Consulting LTDPrestland & Co Property Consultants LimitedProactive LivingRav Web SolutionsRiccarton Garden CentreRombo Verde LimitedSpirit Lettings & Sales LimitedSt James’s PlaceSteven Kerr Public AffairsSunGard Availability ServicesTANK CommunicationsThe William Tracey GroupTreasury SenseUsher hallVisualise ScotlandWired in Scotland

Commercial lawyers Warners have launched a new division to serve the legal needs of the rapidly-growing energy sector in Scotland.

The creation of Ennova Renewable Energy Law comes as Warners Commercial has seen demand for its specialist ‘green’ services grow.

Ennova will comprise three partners – Bill Gibson, Ross Kennedy and John Cumming - a consultant, two solicitors and support staff, as well as having the scope to draw on other expertise.

Bill Gibson said: “Energy development and the intelligent and efficient use of renewable energy is now of vital importance to everyone in Scotland.

“Many of our clients have been among the first early adopters of renewable energy projects. That’s meant we have been growing our knowledge of the often complex and comprehensive legal aspects of the sector for a considerable time.”

The city’s growing prominence as a business and leisure destination has seen us launch three new routes from Edinburgh Airport this year.

From September we will begin flying to Tenerife and will introduce Scotland’s only direct route to Athens. In addition December will see us launch Grenoble as another great ski opportunity from the city.

The new destinations bring the number of easyJet routes from Edinburgh to 23, meeting our objective of responding to customer demand by providing an even greater choice of city, sun and ski destinations.

The new routes will be supported by the arrival of a new 180-seat Airbus A320, as we deliver close to an additional 260,000 seats to our business and leisure routes from Scotland’s capital city.

The main focus now for growth in Edinburgh and Scotland will be on increasing capacity and frequency on our domestic routes as we continue to win a greater share of the business travel market.

We currently offer more than 300 weekly flights between Scotland and London and our ongoing engagement with the Scottish

business community has told us that business travellers in Scotland demand flexibility and value.

We have responded to this by introducing a new ‘Scotland Flex’ product, a flexible ticketing arrangement which gives passengers the freedom to fly back from any London airport to any Scottish airport.

Added benefits like being able to print your boarding pass up to 28 days before departure, switching to an earlier flight home for free, and the ability to transfer onto the next available flight for a flat fee of £42 if you miss your flight, also combine to give our passengers a great product.

Going forward we will continue to develop our product offering and work with the city and the local business community to enhance Edinburgh’s position as a leading business and leisure destination.

By Hugh Aitken,easyJet’s Scotland Commercial Manager

Edinburgh now a key focus in the easyJet expansion strategy.

New ‘green’ division for Warners

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Partners in Enterprise

June/July2011 BC 53

FindoutmoreaboutourPartnersinenterpriseonourwebsite:www.edinburghchamber.co.ukinthe‘Aboutus’section.

Scottish SMEs can now access a range of expertise, facilities and funding to boost innovation and profi tability, though a £2.3 million initiative led by Edinburgh Napier University.

The initiative is one of the fi rst of its kind and offers SMEs unique access to a network of nine University and College partners from across the East of Scotland, providing a gateway to a range of support designed to assist in the development of innovative products, processes and services.

Support provided by the initiative will focus on priority sectors including creative industries, energy & renewables, food & drink, informatics, life sciences & healthcare, manufacturing, sustainable construction, tourism and rural business.

To help develop projects between SMEs and academic partners, the initiative has access to an innovation fund. The initiative can also assist SMEs to access additional sources of funding support such as Innovation Vouchers, Knowledge Transfer Partnerships, SMART awards and R&D Grants.

Dr Brendan McGuckin, Head of Commercialisation at Edinburgh Napier University, said: “Scotland’s university based research is ranked amongst the best in the world. By combining business access to research results in combination with the vocational expertise of the College sector, this

initiative is able to provide businesses with a truly unique offering; stimulating innovation across Scotland’s businesses via spanning easy access to specialist skills, technical support, facilities and funding.”

Partners in this initiative include Queen Margaret University, University of St Andrews, Carnegie College, Elmwood College, Jewel and Esk College, Oatridge College, Edinburgh’s Telford College and Stevenson College Edinburgh.

The initiative is part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and the Scottish Funding Council’s SEEKIT fund.

For further information, contact Samantha Penn on: 01314556311, email: [email protected]

Casestudy:gettingFitforinnovation

OneLife Leisure, based in Livingston, is receiving funding and support from Stevenson

College Edinburgh, on an Innovation Funded project focusing on creating renewable energy from a novel source.

The company is utilising the expertise of academic staff with Stevenson’s electrical engineering department to assess the feasibility of converting human kinetic energy, generated through the use of self-powered exercise equipment (such as bikes and cross-trainers), into electricity.

If successful, the company plan to develop the system into an innovative training device, with a range of individual incentives being put in place for achieving energy generation targets. The system will also result in signifi cant cost savings for the company by reducing their reliance on electricity imported from the grid and provide an excellent demonstration of OneLife Leisure’s commitment to the environment.

On completion of the feasibility project, the company expects to apply for further funding to work with Stevenson College Edinburgh, or one of its other academic partners, on the development of a Knowledge Transfer Partnership.

Business Innovation gets a Boost

BC issue 11.indd 53 25/5/11 09:52:47

Moversandshakers

54 BC June/July2011

Since graduating from Edinburgh College of Art in 2008 trevorJones’career ascent has been exceptional.

Involved with four near sell-out exhibitions to date, Jones’ work is in such high demand that a limited edition print division to his art business has been established.

Jones has exhibited in numerous galleries including the UNIONgallery, Edinburgh and the prestigious Lemon Street Gallery in Cornwall. His original paintings and prints can be found

in public and private collections nationally and internationally.

“Trevor Jones is an exciting, young artist who is making his own distinctive contribution to abstract painting in Scotland.” Bill Hare, writer and Scottish art historian

To discuss commissions or to enquire about work for your offi ce or your home contact the artist at [email protected]

www.trevorjonesart.com

AliPaterson joined Children’s Hospice Association Scotland (CHAS) as Fundraising Manager for South East Scotland in January after more than 20 years work in the voluntary sector. From producing theatre in the 90s to slightly less dramatic work fundraising for conservation, gender equality, and life-long learning charities, the importance of partnerships has always been key; partnerships with the public, with peer organisations and with businesses.

CHAS is a charity which provides the only hospice services in Scotland for children with life-shortening conditions. CHAS runs two children’s hospices, Robin House in Balloch and Rachel House in Kinross, as well as a homecare service called CHAS at Home which operates throughout Scotland. There are four CHAS regional fundraising offi ces and the South East Offi ce covers the Borders up to Falkirk. Each offi ce has associations with their local Chambers of Commerce.

ART. WORKS.

Investing in the future at Turcan Connell

Solving students’ storage problem

Ali joins up

Turcan Connell is delighted to announce the appointment of timhall as Non-executive Charity Investment Consultant and the promotion of richardhyder to Head of Charity Investment.

From left to right: Alex Montgomery (Partner & Head of Asset Management) welcomes Tim Hall and Richard Hyder.

Stewart Arbuckle has launched a business aimed at helping international students. During studies at Edinburgh and Northumbria Universities, during which he achieved Masters degrees in Mathematics and Economics and Real Estate Management, Stewart realised that there was a lack of an all-in-one summer storage provider for international students.

The result, in February this year, was the launch of StudentStorage.Com to resolve the problem.

For more contact: [email protected] or go to www.studentstorage.com

BC issue 11.indd 54 25/5/11 09:52:56

B u s i n e s s p o r t r a i t u r e b y G r a h a m C a r n i e B . A .

Graham CarnieTuskite Photography 0131 477 6594

Graham’s commission was to photograph Malcolm Scott, one of Scotland’s most respected and

influential business men. Malcolm’s latest venture is the revolutionary ‘ART ROCH’, Edinburgh’s

first Boutique Hostel. For more information about Graham Carnie and his work, go to:

www.grahamcarniephotography.co.uk

BC issue 11.indd 55 25/5/11 09:53:07

Skillsmean morewith SQA.

SQA offers a range of qualifications and servicesto develop the skills people need to work more effectively

and more productively. Meaning happier employers, happier staff, happier results.

Smile.Log onto www.sqa.org.uk/employers

Contact SQA’s Business Development Team on0303 333 0330 or email [email protected]

BC issue 11.indd 56 25/5/11 09:53:08

Documents

Business Comment 11