incommerce spring 2014

www.dundeeandanguschamber.co.uk Member Helpline 01382 228545

DUNDEE & ANGUS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

DUNDEE & ANGUS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE business magazine

SPRING

2014

• Commonwealth Games Minister inspires Chamber members

• GSK invests £25m in Montrose site

• The changing face of Dundee

• 20 new Chamber members

Michelin optimistic for a successful 2014

The 2013 events programme ended on a lively note at the highly-successful Chamber Christmas Social. There was an excellent turnout and lots of seasonal fun, laughter and networking. It’s good to kick up the dust and take time out now

and then – especially from running a demanding business – and we hope those of you who managed along enjoyed it as much as we did.

There were several highlights during the evening, including the opportunity to give outgoing President, Jim Pickett, a great send-off and to recognise his strong contribution to the development of Dundee & Angus Chamber of Commerce over the last six years. Jim was presented with several gifts from colleagues and members. We wish him continued business success and as a new member of Dundee Rotary. We also wish to thank Richard Smyth of Creative Graffix, who stepped down in December, for all his work as a director.

The role of the Board of Directors is to provide strategic direction and accountability to ensure the Chamber continues to thrive. Our priority therefore is to get the Board back up to full strength with 10 member directors and to develop a new and ambitious business plan for the future. That is underway and will be presented to members at the AGM on 28 August.

We both feel honoured to be at the helm until a new President is appointed by nomination of the directors which will happen when all 10 directors are in place.

We’re delighted to announce the appointment of two new directors – Deborah Miller, Partner at Simpson & Marwick and Tim Allan, Chief Executive of Unicorn Property Group. They bring a wealth of business experience to the strategic team and we warmly welcome their input and fresh ideas.

This is a momentous year for Scotland as we look forward to the Commonwealth Games, the Ryder Cup and the Referendum. We hope it’ll also be another great year in the development and growth of the Chamber and thank all members for their continued support and participation.

Alison Henderson, Vice PresidentManaging Director, My Pinkie Promise

Dave Valentine MBE, Vice PresidentManaging Director, Valentine International Business Connections LLP

Contents

Front cover: Michelin

InCommerce is published by DTech. 20 East Argyle Street, Helensburgh G84 7RR. Telephone 01436 678808. E-mail: [email protected].

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

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

For advertising contact DTech on T: 01436 678808 E: [email protected]

Editorial Team: Sandra Burke (Editor), Mike Stirling, Rebecca Stott and Irene Duncan. Submit articles and stories to [email protected]

Publisher: DTech

Distribution: DTech Distribution

Cover storiesMSP Shona Robison on business opportunities ...................... 6

Michelin Success ............................... 20

What’s happening at GlaxoSmithKline .............................. 21

Dundee Economic Development ..... 32

Business Directory – New Members ...........................38 – 39

FeaturesChamber News ..............................4 – 6

Scottish Chamber News ..................... 7

Board of Directors ............................ 10

Member News ...........................11 – 15

Chamber Platinum Partners .....18 – 19

Christmas at the Chamber ........24 – 25

Towergate talk about workplace pensions ......................... 26

In Business – Social Media Marketing ................... 28

In Business – Accountancy ............... 29

In Business – Law ............................ 29

Angus Economic Development ....... 31

Constitutional Debate ..................... 33

Latest News at the NHS ................... 36

What’s happening at the James Hutton Institute .............. 37

Guest Business Writer – Graham Huband ............................... 40

Memberships Benefits ..................... 41

Events Round-up ............................. 42

Dundee & Angus Chamber of Commerce City Quay, Camperdown Street, Dundee DD1 3JA

A welcome from the Board of Directors

Back row, left to right: Tim Allan, Unicorn Property Group, Dougy Agnew, Henderson Loggie, Mark Munsie, Dundee Industrial Heritage, Deborah Miller, Simpson & Marwick. Front row, left to right: Sandra Burke, Chief Executive, David Valentine, Valentine International Business Connections, Alison Henderson, My Pinkie Promise.

Pho

to b

y G

SR P

ho

tog

rap

hic

.

4DUNDEE & ANGUS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

chamber news

Sandra BurkeChief Executive and Editor

Links with Zadar re-energised

Following Croatia’s accession to the European Union in July 2013, the Council of Europe is working actively with its city leaders on a range of civic development initiatives and to

encourage international exchange with the UK. Currently, the main emphasis is to explore the potential for educational, cultural and trade links.

Dundee and the town of Zadar on the Dalmatian coast of Croatia have been twinned since 1959 and in early February the Council of Europe invited a small group of local leaders out to refresh and underline that connection. The business community was represented by Chamber Chief Executive, Sandra Burke, who had talks with the President of the Zadar County Chamber of Commerce, Mr Dario Jurin. It emerged that Zadar has a thriving tourism sector, a busy port, a large agricultural hinterland and considerable potential for leisure businesses, with large areas of land earmarked for golf course development. It’s also the home of the world-famous Maraschino Cherry Liqueur.

Sandra is pictured with the dignitaries who attended the symbolic signing ceremony.

Chamber business speaker survey results

We asked Chamber members to take part in a survey of the types of speakers they’d like to hear at our events. There was a clear winner! The majority of you want

to hear from successful entrepreneurs on how they built their business and any tips you can take away from their experiences. Second most popular were national business speakers.

Finally, you asked for specialist speakers within specific subjects and sectors, along the lines of the Marketing Experience events we’ve run in conjunction with the Chartered Institute of Marketing. Chris Van Der Kuyl of The Entrepreneurial Exchange was your top speaker suggestion, closely followed by Philip Long of the V&A and, finally, an expert in online sales and marketing.

Thank you for all your suggestions. We’ve taken note and will be using the results to inform our event programme across 2014 and beyond.

www.dundeeandanguschamber.co.uk/72_ChamberEvents.html

I often find myself speaking up for, or on behalf of, the local business community. It’s a big responsibility. Businesses come in all shapes and sizes, and are as diverse in what they think

and do as the general population. And as you would expect, business owners and managers have a wide range of views and often disagree on the big issues. Never more so has that been evident than in 2014 as we look forward to the history-making independence referendum.

Scottish Chambers of Commerce are all politically neutral, but we know our 9,000 member businesses, between them employing 50% of the Scottish workforce, have a wide range of views. Our job, therefore, is to help facilitate the debate. We are pleased to be partnering with the University of Dundee’s excellent Five Million Questions information and event campaign, and expect sparks to fly when business speakers from both sides of the argument go head-to-head on 22 April on the topic of “Independence – a risk or an opportunity for business”.

The debate will be chaired by Nora Senior, award-winning corporate communicator and Chair of Scottish Chambers of Commerce, who is also President of the British Chambers of Commerce. We hope to see you there.

Coming back to how we can be sure we’re speaking up for business on the issues that really matter. Our Board of Directors is drawn from our membership base and they’ve recently worked together to start identifying the six or so big issues they think should be set out for attention and communication in our next three-year business plan. To make sure we’re on the right track, we’ll shortly be running a member survey to say what they are and to consult on your views. Are you intrigued? We hope so. Please be sure to participate and have your say.

On page 37 hear about student placements, Jennifer and Rebecca. They both made quite an impression and have energised our small team. The soon-to-end Graduate Recruitment Incentive Scheme could provide a boost for your business too if you are thinking of recruiting. Find out more on our website.

Pho

to p

rovi

ded

by

Inte

rnat

ion

al R

elat

ion

s O

ffice

of

the

May

or

of

the

Cit

y o

f Za

dar

.

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

chamber news

UK Finland Ambassador visits the Chamber

His Excellency Mr Pekka Huhtaniemi, UK Finland Ambassador, held talks with Dundee & Angus Chamber of Commerce at City Quay. He was keen

to hear about the city’s ambitious £1.1bn Waterfront Regeneration project.

Accompanied by his wife Liisa and Finland Honorary Consul in Dundee, Alasdair Chalmers, Managing Director of DP&L Group Ltd., Ambassador Huhtaniemi was enthralled by the latest fly-through presentation of the V&A Dundee Design Museum and asked many questions about the distinctive design of the building and its expected economic impact on Dundee and the wider city-region.

The V&A Dundee presentation was delivered by Sarah Saunders, Head of Learning and Engagement at the V&A, who also shared her passion for Finnish and Nordic design with the ambassador. Chamber Vice President, David Valentine MBE said, “It was a pleasure to meet Ambassador Huhtaniemi and to discuss the potential for tourism, cultural exchange and international trade between Finland and the north east of Scotland. Our small countries have much in common and there is great potential to do more business together for economic benefit.”

David Valentine, Vice-President, presenting His Excellency Mr Pekka Huhtaniemi, UK Finland Ambassador, with a plaque.

Left to right, back row: Mark Munsie, Dundee Industrial Heritage Limited, Alasdair Chalmers, DP&L Group, Sandra Burke, Dundee & Angus Chamber of Commerce, Ann Bain, DP&L Group, Sarah Saunders, V&A at Dundee, David Valentine, Valentine International Business Connections LLP.

Left to right, front row: His Excellency Mr Pekka Huhtaniemi, UK Finland Ambassador, and his wife Liisa Huhtaniemi.

Local contact centres named in prestigious annual awards

The Talking Tayside Awards 2013 were held at West Park on Friday 30 November. The winners of all nine categories were selected by three highly-respected judges: Joanne

Seagrave of national body Customer Contact Association (CCA), Jane McEwen of DWP Network Services and Jim Mason of Scottish Development International, headline sponsors of the Talking Tayside Awards 2013.

Dundee City Council established Talking Tayside in 2000 and continues to support the partnership.

“We are delighted to be one of the sponsors of the Talking Tayside Awards 2013,” said Councillor Will Dawson, convener of Dundee City Council’s City Development Committee, sponsors of the Contact Centre Team Leader/Manager of the Year Award.

Following the presentation of the awards to the first eight categories, Aviva was named winner of the Contact Centre of the Year Award 2013.

“Everyone in the Centre works extremely hard as a team, striving to provide a great customer experience,” said Tony Leonard of Aviva. “We’re really pleased to receive external recognition for our hard work and commitment.”

The winners of the Talking Tayside Awards 2013 were:

• Contact Centre of the Year, sponsored by Scottish Development International: Aviva

• Contact Centre Agent of the Year, sponsored by Search: Louise Winters, DWP Network Services

• Contact Centre Manager of the Year, sponsored by SSE: Tony Leonard, Aviva

• Operations Manager of the Year, sponsored by Dundee City Council Education: Stephanie Ramsay, SSE

• Support Professional of the Year, sponsored by Aviva: James Skivington, SSE

• Contact Centre Community Award, sponsored by Discover Opportunities: Tesco

• Contact Centre Team Leader/Manager of the Year, sponsored by Dundee City Council City Development: Claire McDougall, DWP Network Services

• Team of the Year Award, sponsored by Dundee & Angus Chamber of Commerce: Aviva North East Fleet Team

• Best Company Culture Award, sponsored by Dundee College: SSE

Left to right: Kevin Hart, Aviva, Sandra Burke, Dundee & Angus Chamber of Commerce, Dougy Agnew, Henderson Loggie, Joyce Simpson, Craig Taylor and Jim Steedman of Aviva.

Pho

to p

rovi

ded

by

Du

nd

ee

Cit

y C

ou

nci

l.


chamber news

MSP Shona Robison inspires Chamber members Shona, who is Minister for the Commonwealth Games and Sport, was the guest speaker at the Chamber breakfast meeting held at the Carnoustie Golf Hotel, in association with Women Ahead. The event was attended by 60 delegates from Angus and Dundee. Here we summarise her excellent talk on the business opportunities for 2014 and beyond.

Dundee & Angus Chamber of Commerce is of great importance. It provides a strong voice for local businesses and actively promotes Dundee and Angus as a world-class

destination.

The Scottish Government is fully committed to exploiting the opportunities associated with hosting the Commonwealth Games and the Ryder Cup which will support around 36,000 jobs. It’s also established an employer recruitment incentive, encouraging companies to provide up to 1,500 modern apprenticeships for work relating to events in 2014.

In addition, pathways into more specialised work are being maximised – 13 further education colleges, including Dundee and Angus College, will provide security training to students generating a skilled workforce ready to meet the demands of this growth sector.

To date, £300m of contracts have been awarded for the Commonwealth Games and 85% of that value has gone to firms based in Scotland. Businesses like Forster Roofing Services Ltd from Brechin, Streamtec Ltd from Arbroath and the Galloway Group based in Dundee.

Scottish Ministers and their partners have developed an ambitions b u s i n e s s l e g a c y programme to promote the very best of Scotland on the international stage and improve business capacity at home. As part of this a major

business conference will take place in Glasgow on the eve of the Commonwealth Games. This conference will link international companies with Scottish businesses to create new opportunities for trade.

Scotland’s Commonwealth export market is currently worth £1.8bn a year. That’s significant, but it’s less than 10% of Scotland’s total exports. The events calendar of 2014 provides an opportunity for boosting Scotland’s profile on the world stage. By presenting a year-long, co-ordinated programme of events we can generate pride in the people of Scotland, welcome visitors from around the world and celebrate Scotland’s greatest assets.

The Ryder Cup presents Scottish businesses with many opportunities to benefit from our position as ‘The Home of Golf’.

It’s important to have committed and influential women across sport governing bodies, broadcasting, business and the media to help promote and motivate women in sport.

In partnership with sportscotland, a short-term working group for Women in Sport is examining a number of areas, including harnessing the power of social media to promote women involved in sport in Scotland and achieve a better representation of women’s sport through the media.

This summer athletes from across the Commonwealth will compete at the Barry Buddon Shooting Centre in front of sell-out audiences. This has the potential to provide a significant economic boost to Carnoustie, Dundee and the wider Tayside region.

We’ll also take this opportunity to showcase the stunning coastline of Angus and Tayside to the 1.5bn people tuning in to watch from all corners of the globe.

The Lonely Planet recently named Scotland as one of three top countries in the world to visit this year. The two places above us are Antarctica, which is stunning but difficult to get to, and Brazil which is lively but not half as lively as Glasgow will be in July and August!

Let’s harness the opportunities that 2014 brings and make Scotland shine.

Left to right: Edith Adam, Women Ahead, David Valentine, Vice-President, Shona Robison, MSP, Sandra Burke, Dundee & Angus Chamber of Commerce.

Shona Robison MSP talks passionately about how businesses can be involved in the Commonwealth Games.

Chris Stevens of Kangaroo Self Storage talks with Pamela Malpas of 1 Office.

Pho

to b

y G

SR P

ho

tog

rap

hy.

Pho

to b

y G

SR P

ho

tog

rap

hy.

Pho

to b

y G

SR P

ho

tog

rap

hy.


scottish chambers of commerce

Scottish economy primed for further growth in 2014The worst of the recession may now be over

Scottish Chambers of Commerce have released their Business Survey results for the fourth quarter of 2013. This broadly-based survey reported in all sectors trends in business

confidence are stronger than a year ago, indicating the economy is still progressing towards pre-recession levels and the worst of the recession may now be over. However, the recovery still remains fragile and further action may be required to ensure that it is sustainable.

Garry Clark, Head of Policy and Public Affairs at Scottish Chambers of Commerce, said:

“This survey contains the most positive signs of growth and business activity we’ve seen for many years. The good news is businesses across a range of sectors are more confident at the start of 2014 than they were a year ago and the construction sector in particular has recovered dramatically after many years of decline.

“In manufacturing, orders from within the UK have strengthened, even though trends in export orders have proved to be less strong, and the outlook remains positive across the board. One area of potential concern is the low cashflow some manufacturers are reporting. This makes it even more important businesses have access to finance in order to fund investment for growth. This is particularly true for small and medium businesses since investment levels will require to grow if the recovery is to become more broadly-based and sustainable.

“At the beginning of the Year of Homecoming, optimism is high in the Scottish tourism sector, following a strong end to 2013. Though expectations for the beginning of 2014 are modest, occupancy levels are higher than they were a year ago and bar and restaurant trade is improving. Overall, tourism optimism is at an eight-year high and with iconic events such as the Ryder Cup, Commonwealth Games and MTV Europe Music Awards coming to Scotland this year, there is every opportunity to succeed and to ensure that the legacy is fully realised.

“Employment trends are mixed across the sectors, perhaps in part reflecting seasonal variations, but wage growth seems to be picking up slightly, offering some hope that the consumer-led recovery can be sustained until investment levels begin to increase.

“There’s a lot to be optimistic about in the Scottish economy in 2014. However, government must ensure businesses feel confident to invest and that will mean continuing to prioritise access to finance and also committing to future mitigation of fixed costs such as business rates.”

Garry Clark, Scottish Chambers of Commerce.

Pho

to p

rovi

ded

by

Sco

ttis

h C

ham

ber

s o

f C

om

mer

ce.

Global ComsYour Local Telecoms Company

Telecoms veteran Gordon Tosh has been providing telephone system support in Tayside and Angus for 25 years now, giving him a wealth of experience and understanding of how best a company should communicate with its customers and suppliers in a cost effective and efficient manner.

Global Coms will provide support for companies with old BT systems such as the Meridian, BCM and Verstility for those who are happy with their existing systems but BT won’t maintain them anymore. Support contracts start at only £1.00 per day!

Looking after legacy systems is a small part of the business. Where the real excitement lies is with the latest generation of Voice over IP telephone systems. These systems are generating real savings for companies by providing operational efficiencies such as having home workers connected directly to the office, remote offices connected back to the main office and even using your smartphone as a direct extension of the company system. This allows free calls from your smartphone back to the office from anywhere in

the world with wifi! Not only can you connect to the office but by dialling 9 you pick up a line on the system and dial out at local rates. This alone is providing huge savings for customers.

Global Coms is supplying two types of Voice over IP systems; the standard type is where all the hardware is located in the customer’s premises and the other is a cloud based solution. Every customer is different so each situation is looked at in detail to evaluate the perfect solution.

GLOBAL COMS IS OFFERING FREE HANDSETS WITH THEIR CLOUD BASED SOLUTIONS UNTIL THE END OF JULY 2014!

Global Coms has no sales force so will offer friendly and professional guidance on what your business can do but with absolutely no pressure to buy. Call now on 01382 339339 for a chat about the wonderful world of telecoms.

WWW.GLOBALCOMS.CO.UKAD

VE

RT

SIN

G F

EA

TU

RE


boarD of Directors

Vice-President Alison Henderson is Managing Director of My Pinkie Promise Limited, the strategic marketing and event management consultancy she launched in 2009. Alison worked in senior roles within the corporate, financial and banking sectors for many years and is experienced in leading

teams and working with clients. She studied at the Chartered Institute of Marketing, Surrey and her qualifications include the Professional Diploma in Marketing. Alison is very proud to be Vice President of the Dundee & Angus Chamber of Commerce and Vice President of the Association of Scottish Businesswomen.

Mark Munsie joined Dundee Heritage Trust in 1999 and was appointed a director of the Trust in 2003. He has operational responsibility for the Trust’s two award-winning five-star museums, Scotland’s Jute Museum at Verdant Works and Discovery Point, plus the ongoing conservation of the RRS Discovery. Mark is

passionate about achieving high standards of customer service and takes a hands-on role in many areas of the business, along with playing a major role in formulating the strategic direction of the Trust.

Dougy Agnew specialises mainly in corporate tax and has over 20 years’ experience in both Big Four accountancy firms in Edinburgh and London. For three years he was the in-house Group Tax Manager for a large UK & European property group. In over 20 years in the profession Dougy has advised on all tax

areas, covering both small and large corporates, and has also been involved with Real Estate fund structuring across Europe and the Middle East. Dougy is the lead Scottish contact of the National MHA R&D and Patent Box Group.

Stuart Grant is a hotel manager with 30 years’ hospitality experience having worked overseas and throughout the UK for independent operators and international companies. Stuart is General Manager at the Apex City Quay Hotel and Spa. He’s an active member of Dundee Rotary Club and a committee member

of the Dundee Branch for Hit (Hospitality Industry Trust) Scotland.

Deborah Miller is a Law Society accredited specialist in employment law and a partner at Simpson & Marwick Solicitors. Originally from Kirriemuir, Deborah attended the University of Dundee where she achieved a first-class class honours law degree. Deborah is vice-chair of Women Ahead, a tutor on the Diploma in Legal

Practice at the University of Dundee and a member of the Association of Regulatory and Discipline Lawyers. She’s also on the Scottish steering committee for the Employment Lawyers Association.

Vice-President David Valentine MBE, MRTPI was born in Ramsbottom, Lancashire. He graduated from Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art, Dundee in 1975 before joining Angus District Council as a Chartered Town Planner. He retired from the post of Head of Economic Development and Environmental and Consumer

Protection with Angus Council in November 2012 to establish his own businesses and develop Chinese networks. David’s an experienced economic development practitioner and Chief Officer responsible for a portfolio of services, including business support, international trade and tourism, as well as environmental health and consumer protection. He’s a member of the Royal Town Planning Institute and a former member of the Institution of Economic Development and Society of Local Authority Chief Executives.

Andy Ross is Site Director at GSK’s Montrose facility. He joined GSK in 2000 as a Process Chemist and following roles at a number of sites he took up his current position in July 2011. Andy did his schooling at Stewarton Academy and went on to study at the University of Glasgow where he gained a

Bachelor’s degree and Ph.D. in Chemistry. GSK took the award for Investment of the Year at the Scottish Enterprise Life Science Awards 2013 following its announcement that £100m would be spent across its Scottish sites in Montrose and Irvine.

Tim Allan gained an MA in History at St Andrews University and served in the British Army until retiring as a Major in 1998. He comes from a background of private wealth management and has worked with some of the most prominent entrepreneurs and families in the US and the UK. In 2005, he left banking

to join his partners in founding Unicorn Property Group, where his expertise in investment and marketing has been a key element. In addition to being a director of Unicorn, Tim sits on the Scotland Committee of the BIG Lottery Fund. He was made a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, Manufactures and Commerce, and was awarded The Queen’s Award for Enterprise Promotion.

Sandra Burke became Chief Executive of the Chamber in April 2013. She’s an award-winning marketer, professionally qualified in both marketing and personnel development, and is experienced in local and national economic development. Sandra successfully tackled challenging leadership roles in Scottish

Enterprise, the Care Commission, on secondment to the Scottish Government, and running her own consultancy businesses. She has led many business units throughout Scotland, working with boards and teams through change and challenging situations. Sandra was a leading member of the team that won the Scottish Marketing Awards Grand Prix for the Dundee City of Discovery Campaign which helped transform the image of the city.

Contact the directors at [email protected]


member news

Audi Dundee is driving forward

Sales of Audi vehicles in the UK reached a new peak of 142,040 cars in 2013. This represents a 14.9% year-on-year increase

and equates to a record 6.27% share of the market, establishing Audi as the leading premium brand in the UK in terms of sales.

As part of the John Clark Motor Group, Dundee Audi is dedicated to providing local companies with all their business vehicle requirements. They provide tailored finance solutions from contract hire, leasing and outright purchase, to pooled mileage agreements for larger fleets.

True to the spirit of ‘Vorsprung durch Technik’, Audi is launching an array of new models during 2014, including the innovative A3 e-tron, the brand’s first ever plug-in hybrid.

www.dundeeaudi.co.uk

Doosan awarded prestigious Sword of Honour

Doosan Babcock and Doosan Škoda Power have jointly demonstrated their credentials as a top industrial employer

by winning a prestigious Sword of Honour from the British Safety Council. The award was presented to parent company Doosan Power Systems which now becomes one of only 68 organisations worldwide to be awarded a Sword of Honour for excellence in the management of health and safety.

www.doosan.com

Awards Success for Dundee and Angus College

Dundee and Angus College took home several awards from the College Development Network Annual Awards held in

Glasgow on Thursday 28 November. The categories they were successful in were: Learning and Teaching (Dundee College), Sustainability (Angus College), Employer Engagement (Dundee College), Student Enterprise (Commended: Angus College) and Student Contribution (Commended: Dundee College).

www.dundeeandangus.ac.uk

Left to right: Scott Warden, Academic Head for Building Services, Karen Donaldson, Customer Engagement Manager, Chris Ashe, Director of Innovation & Technology and Nicky Inglis, Curriculum Manager, Engineering. Doosan staff pictured with their Sword of Honour award.

Pho

to p

rovi

ded

by

Du

nd

ee a

nd

An

gu

s C

olle

ge.

Pho

to p

rovi

ded

by

Du

nd

ee A

ud

i.

Ph

oto

pro

vid

ed b

y D

oo

san

.

Millstream celebrates its Silver Jubilee

Aberdeen-based Millstream, the electronic tendering provider which runs the national e-procurement portals

for Scotland and Wales, is celebrating 25 years in business. From its early days in the late 1980s in Aberdeen, it has successfully built its Tenders Direct and myTenders websites which provide private companies with tender information on new business opportunities in the public sector. It also runs procurement websites for Scotland (Public Contracts Scotland) and Wales, and recently launched a Norwegian service, myTenders Norge, after running the national portal for the Norwegian government for eight years.

www.tendersdirect.co.uk

Tim Williams, Managing Director of Millstream.

Pho

to p

rovi

ded

by

Mill

stre

am.


member news

A multi-million-pound redevelopment of facilities at Montrose Port is paying dividends. The upturn in fortunes has come following an £8.5m project to create two new

deep-water berths. The improved facilities allow larger vessels used in the maintenance and servicing of oil and gas field developments on the UK Continental Shelf to make better use of the quay, and the upturn in business has been such that a second quay revitalisation project is now being brought forward.

The secondary £4.5m development – which is subject to planning approvals from Marine Scotland – will see a further two berths on the opposite side of the river replaced.

Port chief executive John Paterson thinks there’s a real opportunity for Montrose to build its reputation in the offshore shipping market and grab a major slice of the work available, but simply having increasing numbers of larger vessels alongside is not enough. The port has to prove itself capable of providing the professional on and off-loading, and warehousing services, that oil and gas and renewable operators are looking for.

“The offshore oil and gas work has come to us because of our improved facilities,” Mr Paterson said. “Following completion of the deep-water berths project on the South Quay we’ve quite significantly expanded the capacity of the port. The improvements and other future dock improvements secure the ability of the port to handle a variety of trades.”

While already heavily involved in the oil and gas industry, Mr Paterson said the port was increasing its presence in the wind energy sector, but the majority of work was currently in servicing the onshore wind industry rather than offshore.

“For the present time our focus on the wind energy business is onshore because of our proximity to the sites to which the turbines and their components have to be transported. That is an exercise which has to be very carefully planned because of the differing ships, the size of the components and the need to store them close to the quayside where they are delivered by sea. We’ve only been involved in that market for the past year, but the fact we’ve demonstrated that we have the facilities available to do these things has attracted these vessels.”

However, Mr Paterson said the port was keen to establish early links with the developers looking to construct multi-billion-pound wind arrays in the North Sea.

The three windfarms being planned in the firths of Forth and Tay represent capital investment in the order of £15bn alone and they are likely to be the tip of the iceberg should the industry manage to drive down costs and take construction plans forward in the next few years.

Taken from an exclusive interview by Business Editor Graham Huband, first published in The Courier.

Business is boomingMontrose Port’s CEO John Paterson talks about the current success and the exciting times ahead

Aerial view of Montrose Port.

Pict

ure

© D

C T

ho

mso

n &

Co

Ltd

.

Iconic golf shop under new ownership

David Valentine, of Valentine International Business Connections and Chamber Vice-President, and his wife Margaret, have bought Simpsons Golf Shop

in Carnoustie, believed to be the world’s second-oldest golf shop. The shop was founded in 1883 by golf legend Robert Simpson and is still located on Links Parade.

David said, “Our decision to buy the shop was because of our interest in developing the Simpsons brand. Few visitors to Carnoustie know much about Robert Simpson and the fabulous contribution the family made to the world of golf in the early 20th century. 2014 is the 30th anniversary of golf in China and my intention is to co-produce a Simpsons book with a Chinese golf writer and at the same time introduce hickory golf tournaments as a marketing platform for Simpsons-branded heritage products.”

www.valentineinternational.co.ukSimpsons Golf Shop.

Ph

oto

pro

vid

ed b

y Th

e C

ou

rier

.

Pict

ure

© S

iob

han

Dia

mo

nd

Ph

oto

gra

ph

y.

David Valentine and his wife Margaret who have bought Simpson's Golf Shop.

3D Developments LtdCoaching for Change and Transformation

Performance Coaching offers transformational approaches to enhance business skills, supports and enables high performing teams and individuals whilst maintaining management integrity. We offer Executive, Management, Supervisory

and Team Facilitation Coaching. We are committed to:

Providing high quality coaching servicesGiving personal care and attention

Being professional, ethical and enthusiasticProviding solution focussed results

Based in Bo’ness, we are the only Coaching Business in Scotland licensed to offer Spectrum™ Emotional Coaching to improve business skills and individual Health &

Wellbeing. The Chartered Management Institute recently quoted that £12.2bn a year is lost due to sick days taken.

Spectrum™ Emotional Coaching for Health and Wellbeing helps businesses maintain happy, healthy and productive employees. We help individuals

fine tune and focus on what matters to them so that they have better Life Work Balance and are more productive. Emotional Coaching encourages solution focussed

thinking, helps people make better choices and create their own strategies to achieve desired results. It enables people to change relationships with anything causing stress,

that is negative or which has held them back in the past, allowing them to move forward and achieve more of what they want.

Over the last five years we have been involved with Synergy Affiliates utilising Spectrum™ in the effective treatment of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and other

related problems, producing some great results. The results achieved are measurable and supported by research. Working with charities, 3000 individuals, many of whom

include Ex-Services Veterans, have achieved very positive results. Spectrum™ Emotional Coaching is also proving successful for the treatment of addiction, smoking cessation,

weight loss, anxiety, depression and personal development.

INTERESTED? - Please contact Joan Boyd 01506-499645 or 07887 984079

A DISCOUNT OF 5% IS AVAILABLE TO CHAMBER MEMBERS.

3D Developments Ltd, 99 Blair Avenue, Deanburn, Bo’ness, EH51 0QP Tel: 01506 499645 • Mobile: 07887 984079 • www.nlp-coaching-scotland.co.uk

Registered in Scotland No 211387

3D Developments LtdCoaching for Change and Transformation

Performance Coaching offers transformational approaches to enhance business skills, supports and enables high performing teams and individuals whilst maintaining management integrity. We offer Executive, Management, Supervisory

and Team Facilitation Coaching. We are committed to:

Providing high quality coaching servicesGiving personal care and attention

Being professional, ethical and enthusiasticProviding solution focussed results

Based in Bo’ness, we are the only Coaching Business in Scotland licensed to offer Spectrum™ Emotional Coaching to improve business skills and individual Health &

Wellbeing. The Chartered Management Institute recently quoted that £12.2bn a year is lost due to sick days taken.

Spectrum™ Emotional Coaching for Health and Wellbeing helps businesses maintain happy, healthy and productive employees. We help individuals

fine tune and focus on what matters to them so that they have better Life Work Balance and are more productive. Emotional Coaching encourages solution focussed

thinking, helps people make better choices and create their own strategies to achieve desired results. It enables people to change relationships with anything causing stress,

that is negative or which has held them back in the past, allowing them to move forward and achieve more of what they want.

Over the last five years we have been involved with Synergy Affiliates utilising Spectrum™ in the effective treatment of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and other

related problems, producing some great results. The results achieved are measurable and supported by research. Working with charities, 3000 individuals, many of whom

include Ex-Services Veterans, have achieved very positive results. Spectrum™ Emotional Coaching is also proving successful for the treatment of addiction, smoking cessation,

weight loss, anxiety, depression and personal development.

INTERESTED? - Please contact Joan Boyd 01506-499645 or 07887 984079

A DISCOUNT OF 5% IS AVAILABLE TO CHAMBER MEMBERS.

3D Developments Ltd, 99 Blair Avenue, Deanburn, Bo’ness, EH51 0QP Tel: 01506 499645 • Mobile: 07887 984079 • www.nlp-coaching-scotland.co.uk

Registered in Scotland No 211387


member news

Twickler Industries expands with purchase of Houston’s

Hermann Twickler, founder of PressureFab and parent company Twickler Industries, has purchased Cupar-based

steel manufacturer Houston’s. The deal, which is self-funded, will retain the 25 jobs at Houston’s and could lead to additional posts being created.

Mr Twickler said, “We welcome the addition of Houston’s of Cupar to our growing group of companies as it brings with it sub-sea engineering expertise and will also strengthen our steel fabrication. In addition, Houston’s of Cupar’s machine shop facility will broaden our services even further for our current and future customers.”

PressureFab has grown from just three employees in 2009 to over 100 in 2014, and met its £10m turnover target for 2013.

www.pressurefab.com Simpson & Marwick ranks highly in Legal 500 and Chambers 2014 results

Simpson & Marwick are ranked Tier 1, the top tier in Employment Law, by The Legal 500 who provide comprehensive worldwide

coverage on recommended law firms and states: “The ‘highly responsive, very professional’ team at Simpson & Marwick was bolstered by the arrival of four senior lawyers from MacRoberts LLP in 2013 – former practice head Stephen Miller, Ian Truscott QC, partner Deborah Miller and team head Sandy Kemp.”

Simpson & Marwick also secured 11 rankings in the latest Chambers 2014 results which researches over 70 areas of law on an annual basis. Five of those areas, including Clinical Negligence, Health & Safety and Family,

are recognised as Tier 1 areas of expertise in specific regions.

The firm’s employment law team has a number of individuals who have been recognised, including Sandy Kemp and Stephen Miller, both recognised as being in Tier 1.

www.simpmar.com

Hermann Twickler shakes hands on the deal with Andy Curran, owner of Houston’s.

Miller Hendry commended for customer service

Miller Hendry, Tayside solicitors, were highly-commended for the Excellence in Customer Service Award at the

Perthshire Chamber of Commerce Business Star Awards held at Crieff Hydro on Friday 22 November.

“We were delighted to be shortlisted as finalists in this highly competitive category,” said managing partner Jeffrey Hope, “but to be singled out by judges as deserving of recognition is a real testimony to the calibre of our team and their dedication to customer service.”

www.millerhendrysolicitors.co.uk

Left to right: Jeff Hope, Managing Partner at Miller Hendry pictured receiving his Business Star Award from Vic Bicocchi of RBS who sponsored the award.

Menzieshill High School celebrates eco-challenge award

School teams from Dundee and Angus attended The University of Dundee on Thursday 12 December to

compete in their regional Go4SET Celebration and Assessment Day (CAD). At the event, which was sponsored by Viridor, Menzieshill High School “H2Operations” team was selected by the judges as the winner of the Best Overall Project. They were presented with a trophy and a cheque for £250 by Tom Liddell, Regional Engineering Manager at Viridor. The team will now compete in the Go4SET Scottish Final at the Scottish Parliament on Friday 16 May.

Left to right: Alison Henderson, My Pinkie Promise, Rose Porteous, Gavin Squair, teacher at Menzieshill High School, Erin Jackson-Neave, Elias Aoubala, Colin Arnold, mentor from Johnson Matthey Battery Systems, Megan Ashley, Tom Liddell from Viridor, Elena Munoz, Molly Irvine.

Pho

to p

rovi

ded

by

My

Pin

kie

Pro

mis

e.

Pho

to p

rovi

ded

by

Mill

er H

end

ry.

Pho

to p

rovi

ded

by

Pres

sure

Fab

.

Left to right, back row: Gavin Macgregor, Anne McIlmoyle, Robert Phillips Left to right, front row: Deborah Miller, Sarah Murdie, Claire Quinn, Harry Boyle.

Pho

to p

rovi

ded

by

Sim

pso

n &

Mar

wic

k.


member news

Stagecoach Group in UK Top 10 for corporate reputation

Stagecoach Group is one of the top 10 most admired businesses in the UK, according to an authoritative annual

survey of corporate reputation. The transport group was rated 6 out of almost 250 businesses across 26 sectors in the Britain’s Most Admired Companies (BMAC) 2013 Awards. Stagecoach was ranked above well-known businesses including Marks and Spencer, easyJet, Whitbread and Rolls-Royce, and was also voted the top transport operator in the survey.

www.stagecoach.com

Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance flying high with mtc.

Platinum Partner mtc. has completed the design and development of a dynamic new website for the frontline

life-saving emergency charity, Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance (SCAA). The web development company donated their time and expertise to SCAA to help the charity promote itself to a world-wide audience.

Director David Rankine, who is also one of SCAA’s ambassadors, said everyone involved in the project had been delighted to help out such a worthwhile charity.

“Working in Dundee we are very aware of the charity helicopter flying in and out of Ninewells. Having heard of the amazing work the charity does we decided to act and the best way we could help them was to do what we do best.”

Gavin Davey, SCAA chief executive said, “mtc. worked closely with SCAA to ensure we had something unique and outstanding. A website is essential in the 21st century and the young and vibrant team at mtc. has gifted SCAA a dynamic and exciting website which will help get our message across to a wider public and encourage them to raise funds or get involved in supporting us to help those most in need.”

www.mtcmedia.co.uk, www.scaa.org.uk

Banking expert appointed new Head of Tax at Johnston Carmichael

Scotland’s largest independent firm of accountants and business

advisers, Johnston Carmichael, has appointed Susie Walker as its new Head of Tax. Susie, who has also been promoted to partner level within the firm, joined Johnston Carmichael in 2012 as a director after 20 years of heading up the group tax functions of a number of major banks.

www.jcca.co.uk

New Scottish Dairy Review Group to be headed by jam maker Paul Grant

Paul Grant, Chairman of jam and marmalade manufacturer Mackays, will chair the newly-created Scottish Dairy Review

Group. The group is being set up following a review of the sector led by Scotland Food and Drink Chief Executive James Withers, and was among 19 recommendations made in the “Ambition 2025” review.

Rural Affairs Secretary, Richard Lochhead, said, “I’m delighted to appoint Paul Grant to oversee the implementation of this ambitious plan that I believe will lay the pathway for Scotland’s dairy sector to become a truly global player.”

Mr Grant said, “There is very clearly huge potential for Scotland’s dairy sector to grow and unlock new market opportunities over the coming years. The wealth of expertise within the industry will be critical to forging a future for the sector and I look forward to working with all the key players in the supply chain to turn “Ambition 2025” into reality.”

Last May, Mr Grant was the first person to receive a Food and Drink Outstanding Achievement award from the Scottish government.

www.mackays.com

Susie Walker, new Head of Tax at Johnston Carmichael. mtc. business development director David Rankine (centre) proudly shows off his

company logo on Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance along with SCAA Chief Executive Gavin Davey (right) and lead paramedic John Pritchard.

Pho

to p

rovi

ded

by

Joh

nst

on

Car

mic

hae

l.

Ph

oto

pro

vid

ed b

y m

tc.

Paul Grant, Chairman of Mackays.

Pho

to p

rovi

ded

by

An

gu

s C

entr

e fo

r En

terp

rise

.

dundee council


our PLatinum Partners

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

Abertay University Nigel Seaton, Principal and Vice-Chancellor.

Abertay is a modern university with a long history and a clear sense of their distinctive mission.

The Dundee Academy of Sport - a new sports project aimed at widening access to higher education and increasing school attainment levels – was launched on 30 January 2014 by Abertay University and Dundee and Angus College.

Angus CouncilRichard Stiff, Chief Executive.

Angus Council wishes to create strong secure communities, an enterprising workforce and sustainable development over the range of public services for which it has responsibility.

Angus Council and NHS Tayside are pleased to announce the appointment of Susan Wilson as Interim Chief Officer for the Angus Shadow Health and Social Care Integration Partnership.

DC Thomson Andrew F. Thomson, Chairman.

DC Thomson is well-known as a publisher of newspaper titles including The Courier, Evening Telegraph and The Sunday Post, and iconic magazine brands including The People’s Friend, and children’s titles such as The Beano. DC Thomson has also diversified into new media and digital technology, alongside retail, radio and television through investment interests.

The DC Thomson Group includes global genealogy company DC Thomson Family History, leading Dundee-based IT business services provider brightsolid online technology, Parragon, and Puzzler Media Ltd.

Bank of Scotland Stewart Martin, Senior Manager SME Banking.

Bank of Scotland was founded by an Act of the Scottish Parliament on 17 July 1695. It is Scotland’s first and oldest bank, and post-dates the Bank of England by just one year.

Bank of Scotland has made a move to strengthen its commercial banking team with the appointment of Jane Clark-Hutchison as Mid Markets area director for Edinburgh and the East of Scotland.

Dundee and Angus College Christina Potter, Principal.

Dundee and Angus College is THE key skills development centre for Angus and Tayside. Through bespoke and accredited programmes, it provides training to meet the emerging and increasing skill needs of expanding industry sectors, thereby supporting both local workforce development and the recovery and development of the region’s economy.

Dundee City Council David Dorward, Chief Executive.

Dundee’s £1bn Waterfront development has picked up a brace of national awards. The two accolades at the Scottish Property Awards in Edinburgh have been added to the project’s list of awards.


our PLatinum Partners

GlaxoSmithKline Andy Ross, Site Director.

GSK is a science-led global healthcare company that researches, develops and manufactures a broad range of innovative medicines and brands. GSK recently announced a further £25m investment in its Montrose plant which will be used to create a new state of the art production facility, bringing new products and jobs to the site.

Michelin Tyre PLC John Reid, Factory Manager and Head of Operations at Michelin.

Incorporated in the UK in May 1905, the company is now involved in many activities alongside its traditional tyre-making business, from tyre industry training to economic development to publishing.

Michelin’s wind turbines have produced 50m units (kWh) of electricity since being installed in 2006, enough electricity to power more than 1,500 homes.

mtc.David Rankine, Owner and Founding Director.

mtc. offers a complete, rounded web design and development service. mtc. recently completed work on Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance’s website of which mtc. director David Rankine is an Ambassador.

NHS TaysideLesley McLay, Chief Executive.

NHS Tayside aims to deliver on the corporate vision that everyone will have the best care experience possible by delivering high-quality care to the population of Tayside. To do this, NHS Tayside has embarked on a radical programme of work aimed at re-designing and improving services.

The James Hutton Institute Iain Gordon, Chief Executive.

The James Hutton Institute is an international research centre involved in tackling some of the world’s most challenging problems. Mark Sinclair recently joined the Institute as Director of Corporate Services. His appointment completes the executive team, alongside Professor Iain Gordon, Chief Executive; Professor Bob Ferrier, Director of Research Impact; Professor Colin Campbell, Director of Science Excellence and Beth Corcoran, Director of Finance..

University of Dundee Pete Downes, Principal & Vice-Chancellor.

The University of Dundee is one of the world’s top 200 universities (Time Higher Education World University Rankings 2010) with much of their research described as ‘world leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’ according to the most recent Research Assessment Exercise (2008). In January the University announced the creation of a new £2m Marine Renewables Test Centre to help boost Scotland’s ability to meet its renewable energy targets.

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


michelin

PLatinum Partner

It’s all good news at MichelinJohn Reid, Factory Manager, is looking forward to a successful 2014

Like many businesses, the last few years have been tough for Michelin. The company exports 95% of our production and 70% is sold in Europe which makes it particularly difficult.

It’s made us very sensitive to the Eurozone issues. In 2012 we operated at 27% below plan which meant we had to close the factory for three months. 2013 was better, but still well below optimum loading. Key to our ability to deal with all this was our relationship with the workforce and their flexibility.

At the end of 2012 we made a major change with the full support of our union (Unite) and our workforce to build a new flexibility model for the site. This saw a change to everyone’s contract which allowed us to save 105 jobs and future-proof the site. The new model gives us the ability to flex up by 20% or down by 24%, which is generally deliverable with as little as one week’s notice.

What are the prospects for 2014 and what are we focusing on?

We’ve worked hard to make producing tyres in Dundee more attractive. With our basic performance and flexibility we’ve started to see increased loading. In 2013 we pinched 500,000 extra tyres over the summer when there was an increase in the market and our continental sister plants couldn’t react. This year I’m confident we’ll do the same which will add to an already-increased annual plan. As I write this article we are in negotiations to add a further 200,000 tyres to our loading for March, April and May.

Our focus for 2014 includes the customary emphasis on cost, quality and productivity – that will never change. But this year we’re adding a far more focused approach to our activities supporting the local community. We’re throwing our weight behind the very worthy cause of youth employment.

We’re committing £120k to our Michelin Development fund which supports small businesses with unsecured, very low-interest loans to promote growth and employ more people. In the last 10 years we’ve given loans in Dundee and Tayside of over £1m, supporting the creation of over 500 jobs.

We’re using our Engineering Apprentice Training School to train approximately 30 apprentices for other companies at no charge. Along with our own apprentices, this makes the total being trained in the region of 60.

In addition, we’re running a variety of events to promote employability, use of languages and careers in industry. We’ve also started work on schemes where our employees personally coach or mentor youngsters in primary and secondary schools on basic reading and writing skills, as well as motivating them towards employment.

As we enter the second quarter of 2014 I’m feeling optimistic. We have the right tools and the right strategy to make this year a busy and successful one.

www.michelin.com

John Reid, Factory Manager.

Pho

to p

rovi

ded

by

Mic

hel

in.


GlaxoSmithKline

PLatinum Partner

GlaxoSmithKline announces £25m expansion at Montrose siteFour new products will be produced in state-of-the-art facilities

GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) is investing £25m to expand its operation in Montrose. The company is creating 25 new jobs, bringing their total workforce in Scotland to more

than 750. An additional 50 contractors will be employed during the construction phase. This follows the announcement last year by GSK to invest £100m in Montrose and its other manufacturing site in Irvine, North Ayrshire.

The investment will create new state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, allowing the firm to bring the production of the ingredients for four new pharmaceutical products to Montrose. The 25 new jobs will be for process technicians, engineers and chemists.

Currently, Montrose produces active ingredients for a number of medicines in important disease areas, such as respiratory and HIV/AIDS, while the Irvine site produces antibiotics.

North Tayside MSP John Swinney, the Cabinet Secretary for Finance, Employment and Sustainable Growth, is delighted saying, “GSK’s investment is testament to the skill of the Scottish workforce and illustrates the confidence international companies have in Scotland as a country to invest in.”

Roger Connor, president of global manufacturing and supply for GSK, says the announcement is a vote of confidence in the Montrose team.

“Our teams in Montrose and Irvine are world class and have worked hard to bring new facilities to the two sites. This investment shows how highly we value our teams in Scotland.

“Our people in Montrose manufacture the primary ingredients that then go forward to be put in inhalers, pills, capsules and injections for patients across the globe. Montrose will work alongside our sister site in Singapore to meet international demand for some of the world’s most important medicines.”

Angus Council has already ring-fenced £2.7m to improve access into the GSK site and the area around it, and Scottish Enterprise has announced it will back the expansion with £1.5m of funding.

Angus Council leader, Councillor Iain Gaul, recognises the significance of the expansion saying, “This investment is of

immense importance to Montrose and the wider economy of Angus. I’d like to commend GSK as it demonstrates their faith in the existing workforce and their commitment to the town to invest in the plant and attract new high-end jobs to the site.

“The investment from Scottish Enterprise will support our work to improve the roads in the area and further enhance the port’s reputation as a world-class location for business. We believe this project will help attract further inward investment to the area and support the existing companies to take forward investment plans.”

GSK is the largest pharmaceutical company in Scotland in terms of employment and investment. It contributes about £80m annually to the Scottish economy.

www.gsk.com/uk

Inside GlaxoSmithKline’s facility at Montrose.

Pict

ure

© D

C T

ho

mso

n &

Co

Ltd

.

Murrayshall House Hotel & Golf Courses

Set within our own 350 acre estate, Murrayshall boasts a 41 bedroom 4 star hotel with two restaurants

and two 18 holes golf courses. Our luxurious rooms, relaxing lounges and award winning food,

complemented by two great courses, makes an ideal venue for your golfing break. For groups we can

offer private dining facilities and for companies, event management for your golf day.

Offers so good you will want to keepthem to yourself… if you can!Golf & RoastEnjoy 18 holes of golf over either of our two golf courses followed by a traditional roast platter from £20.00 pp.

MARCH/APRIL £20.00 Lynedoch or £25.00 Murrayshall

MAY/JUNE £40.00 Lynedoch or £60.00 Murrayshall

JULY £30.00 Lynedoch or £40.00 Murrayshall

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER £40.00 Lynedoch or £60.00 Murrayshall

Residential Golf BreaksEscape to Murrayshall, a luxury four star country house hotel set within 350 acres of beautiful Perthshire

country side. Surrounded by two 18 hole golf courses, Murrayshall is the ideal choice for a relaxing few days of

good food, excellent golf at a stunning location.

From£120.00per person per night, inclusive of a three course dinner in the Stutts Bar, bed and breakfast

and one round of golf per nights stay. Valid until 30th September 2014.

One free place in every 12 golfers in your party

Golf DaysWe have a number of catering inclusive packages available for groups of 8 or more players, played over either

or both courses on the same day from£40.00per person.

One free place in every 8 golfers in your party

Murrayshall House Hotel & Golf Courses, Scone, Perthshire PH2 7PH

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

[email protected]

www.murrayshall.co.uk

MURRAYSHALL HOUSE HOTEL & GOLF COURSES

Est. 1964

ROXBURGHgroup

the business of trust

i n d e p e n d e n t

f i n a n c i a l a d v i s e r s

i n s u r a n c e

b r o k e r s

p r o p e r t y

s a l e s & l e t t i n g

We are one of Scotland’s leading independent financial service companies founded in 1964. We’ve built our business on trust developing sound, long-term relationships with our clients

and we would be delighted to discuss how we could help you. Visit us at www.roxburgh-group.co.uk

Glasgow 0141 952 0371 Troon 01292 314313 Stewarton 01560-485333

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

Both J C Roxburgh (Financial Services) Ltd and J C Roxburgh (Insurance Brokers) Ltd are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Business Advice from Business Lawyers

Commercial Property Advice from Commercial Property Lawyers

Employment Advice from Employment Lawyers

Perth 10 Blackfriars StreetPH1 5NS Tel: 01738 637311

Crieff14 Comrie Street, PH7 4AZTel: 01764 655151

Dundee 13 Ward Road, DD1 1LUTel: 01382 200000

Visit our Web Site at www.millerhendrysolicitors.co.uk


The year ended with the ever-popular Christmas Social held at our City Quay offices. Almost 100 members came along and

enjoyed showcase stands from Farmgate Floral Design, Art on Future Designs and Natural Balance Therapy Centre, as well as delicious food from event sponsor Arnolds Catering. There was

such a seasonal atmosphere the Chamber staff team plucked up the courage to sing a cheery rendition of “We wish you a Merry Christmas”. Thanks to everyone who helped make the evening such a success and for your generosity in raising £182 from the raffle for the Chamber’s charity, The George R. Donald Fund.

Festive party time at the Chamber

Pictures by Graham Hood.

1

4

1 President Jim Pickett with his caricature gift from the Chamber as he steps down from office

2 Retiring Board Director Richard Smyth of Creative Graffix, enjoys a chat with Grant Mackie of Storage4U

3 Vice President Alison Henderson with Billy Shepherd of Drop2Door

4 The Chamber team in good voice

5 Stephen Billen of Art on Future Designs shows off his distinctive wares

6 Phil Martin of Natural Balance Therapy Centre

7 Margaret Cook of Farmgate Floral Design displays her Christmas arrangements

8 The delicious spread from Steffie Arnold of Arnolds Catering

9 Our Export Services Co-ordinator Shirley Taylor enjoys a laugh with Phil Turner, Dundee Industrial Heritage, and Pete Menzies, IMPC

10 Sandra Burke chats with Linda Hodes of Grosvenor Casinos and Anne Rendall of Vine Marketing Communications

11 Jill Sutherland of Acclaim Cleaning Systems and Pete Menzies of IMPC receive their Chamber Champion cheques from President Jim Pickett

12 Pete Menzies of IMPC makes a presentation on behalf of members to retiring President Jim Pickett

13 Ruth Finnan, My Bookkeeper Dundee, Simon Knox, Best of Dundee and Angus, Steffie Arnold, Arnolds Catering and Margaret Linn, Henderson Loggie

14 Brian Kidd of 1 Office Equipment and Pauline Traill of Pavillion Properties

15 Pauline Bones of Best of Dundee and Angus chats with Andrew Evans of IMPC

If you would like copies of any of the photos, they are available from Graham Hood Photography. Contact Graham at [email protected] or call him on 07982 827 390. The photos are supplied in card folder mounts and cost £4.50 for 7” x 5”, £5.50 for 9” x 6” and £7.50 for 12” x 8” (plus £2.50 p&p).

2

3

4

25www.dundeeandanguschamber.co.uk

Member Helpline 01382 228545

13

6

65

9

7

11

13

1510

14

12

8


Workplace pensions – is your company ready?

David French, Senior Consultant at Towergate Financial explains how the new auto enrolment legislation could affect companies which will have to provide a workplace

pension and ensure their employees are enrolled.

Auto enrolment is the new flagship legislation the Government has introduced to get people saving for their retirement. Every employer in the country will have to provide and contribute to a workplace pension. The responsibility for auto-enrolling employees lies solely with their employer.

Do you know when this legislation will affect your company?

Introduced from 1st October 2012, largest employers first, each employer has a “staging date” that determines the point by which they will need to start auto-enrolling relevant employees into a workplace pension.

Are you ready?

This will affect you if you have employees who:

• Are aged between 22 & 74 (those under 22 can ask to be enrolled and must be allowed to do so)

• Have earnings over £5,668 per annum (those earning less can ask to be enrolled and must be allowed to do so)

• Work in the UK

This is an extremely complicated piece of legislation which will require you to invest time and resources to ensure you are fully compliant in the eyes of the Pension Regulator.

I would be happy to advise you. Please feel free to contact me.

David J. FrenchSenior ConsultantTowergate FinancialMobile: 07879 000 105www.towergaterisksolutions.co.uk

financial

in business

Agent of The National Farmers Union Mutual Insurance Society Limited.

QUALITY BUSINESSINSURANCE CAN’TBE RUSHED

We'll take the time to help you get the right cover for your business.

Call 01307 46 37 85 for a quote or pop in NFU Mutual Office,West Craig,Dundee Road, Forfar, DD8 [email protected]/forfar

Serving Angus & Dundee

Contact our Sales Team on

01436 678808

www.dundeeandanguschamber.co.uk

Member Helpline 01382 228545

DUNDEE & ANGUS

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE


SPRING

2014

• Commonwealth Games Minister

inspires Chamber members

• GSK invests £25m in Montrose site

• The changing face of Dundee

• 20 new Chamber membersMichelin

optimistic for a

successful 2014

Doing business without advertising is like winking at a girl in the dark. You know what you are doing, but nobody else does.

Steuart Henderson Britt

✓ FREE Quality Publication✓ Targeted Distribution

✓ FREE Graphic Design ✓ Available Online

20 East Argyle Street, Helensburgh G84 7RR

T: 01436 678808/671133

E-mail: [email protected] www.dtechuk.com

dtechdesigners & publishers

ADVERTISE your business in...


Strategic IT planning isn’t the most glamorous of business activities, often resulting in it being overlooked with costly results. We will help you understand and mitigate the risks to your business, and can provide advice and support for:

• Upsizing

• Downsizing

• Moving premises

• Security

• Legacy systems

• and much more...

INITIALCONSULTATION

AND ADVICEABSOLUTELY FREE!

Don’t wait until it’s too lateto update your I.T strategy...


Social media marKetinG

in business

Do you know your tweets from your hashtags?

It’s important to understand whether Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn or other social media channels are right for reaching your customers.

• Don’t spread your business marketing too thinly by jumping on the bandwagon of these ‘new’ platforms – unless you’ve taken the time to plan and work out if they’re right for your business

• Know who your customers are and the marketing messages for making them take action

• Choose the right social media channels to reach your customers

• Plan what to say for maximum impact

• Send a mixture of updates designed to create a buzz

• Engage with your audience – have conversations that will sell your business!

We run workshops to give an introduction to social media for business, plus additional sessions to give a deeper insight, to help you get the best return for your investment.

My Pinkie Promise works with businesses to create marketing plans. We help people think through the process, bounce ideas around and end up with a clear roadmap for marketing their business. Contact the team on 01382 221078 for a chat to find out more, or email [email protected]

planned to perfection….with a pinkie promise!

Alison HendersonManaging Director


law

in business

Finding a buyer for your business

Much has been made in recent months of the return to growth of the UK economy. While the UK economic garden is nowhere near full bloom, there’s little doubt

things are much rosier than they were 12 months ago. But what does this mean for business owners who are considering selling?

For a reasonable period of time now (and not just in the last 12 months) we’ve noticed an increase in opportunities for business owners looking for an exit.These increased opportunities have largely, but not exclusively, been found from three main sources – overseas buyers, larger UK “balance sheet funded” buyers and private equity backed deal activity.

Increased confidence in the western world’s economy has resulted in each of these key buyers viewing acquisitions as a sensible growth strategy and returning to the deals market. Often these types of deals fuel further transactions as “Deal One” is only part of a wider acquisition strategy that will involve further activity.

How does this affect the average Scottish business owner who might be considering an exit?

Finding the correct buyer at the right price is by no means straightforward. The corporate deals sector is still a very challenging place. There will be businesses that are fortunate enough to be targeted by one of the above mentioned buyers, but for most businesses careful exit planning is needed. Key questions any business owner with ambitions of selling should be asking themselves include:• Who is buying or likely to buy in my sector? • Why are they buying? • Why will my business be attractive to them?

There is no substitute for a properly conceived and thought out exit strategy.

The UK corporate deals market has adjusted and changed as a result of lean times and there is now a reasonably “tight” deals community. We are very much part of that deals community and view our ability to “plug into” it and test the market as one of our key service offerings for our clients.

www.macroberts.com

David WyliePartner

accountancy

in business

MMG Archbold Chartered Accountants

Having an accountant who understands your business is important in helping your business survive and thrive.

At MMG we understand the benefits of investing in your business and your people to create foundations for sustainable business growth.

Business Management Information

We work with our cloud accounting clients to streamline their bookkeeping and reporting, whilst also providing flexibility over who maintains the records.

Cloud accounting helps reduce the pressure from the day-to-day upkeep of your accounts and allows you to keep your business performance at your fingertips so you are always in control.

Online collaboration allows an accountant and the client to work with the same up-to-date information. We can spend time helping benchmark business performance and give guidance to focus on or re-align business efforts.

Cloud Accounting Systems

Some of the cloud accounting systems we work with are FreeAgent, Kashflow & Xero. The benefits include:

• Collating expenses, payroll and time tracking, to estimates and invoices, with automated bank feeds so all your day-to-day bookkeeping is systemised and efficient

• Integrating your cash flow and project profitability - see who owes you money on your overview screens

• See how much tax you owe and when it’s due

• File VAT directly to HMRC

MMG ArchboldChapelshade House, 78-84 Bell Street, Dundee DD1 1RQTelephone: 01382 322004Email: [email protected], www.mmgca.co.uk

whyllie


anGuS economic deVeloPment

PLatinum Partner

Tourism and Hospitality AcademyTeam awarded a silver COSLA award for its approach

In supporting the employment of local people in Angus, a consistent approach has been adopted. This includes a five-stage academy programme which includes initial engagement,

action planning, training and support, job placement and aftercare. The most recent academy focused on Tourism and Hospitality, and involved a partnership with Carnoustie Golf Hotel.

The programme started with an information day which allowed potential participants to see what would be involved in the academy. Prior to the information session a roadshow was held at all the local Jobcentres. This involved a representative from Angus Council meeting with local advisers to inform them of the upcoming opportunity and how it would operate.

This approach ensures the right candidates are put forward for the academy and allows advisers to ask questions about the detail of work experience and expectations of the participant. These sessions were held a month in advance of the information day in order to allow time to build up referrals.

At the information day potential participants heard from Towards Employment Team advisers, Department of Work and Pensions advisers and the Deputy General Manager of Carnoustie Golf Hotel.

A total of 45 people attended and 35 expressed an interest in attending the academy. They were given a one-to-one session with a key worker and a Rickter assessment. From this 16 people were provisionally advised they had a place on the academy.

At the completion of the three-week programme there was a course graduation ceremony where the successful participants were rewarded for their hard work and presented with a completion certificate.

Throughout the programme a number of articles appeared in the local press and the team was awarded a silver COSLA award for its approach and is going forward to the finals at the Fairmont Hotel, St Andrews on March 13.

For further information on how the team can help you with your recruitment contact: Towards Employment Team (01241 438160).

www.angus.gov.uk

Pho

to p

rovi

ded

by

An

gu

s C

ou

nci

l.

Successful Academy graduates with their certificates.


dundee economic deVeloPment

PLatinum Partner

The changing face of DundeeMajor changes at the waterfront

It can’t have escaped the notice of anyone driving or walking around the city in the past few months that Dundee is in the middle of a radical redesign.

For many years the groundwork for a new street layout and creation of development sites at the waterfront has been going on, if not unnoticed, then certainly without much fanfare.

That “business as usual” strategy has been a deliberate one, but in the latter half of 2013 and for the remainder of 2014 it will be difficult to ignore the major changes happening at the waterfront.

Tayside House, the Olympia, the Gala Casino, the Hilton and the railway station concourse have all gone. Each building demolished within a short space of time to create a blank canvas for the V&A, a new hotel and railway station, a public open space and additional development land.All that clearing work has been creating jobs and generating wealth in the city, as well as making highly visible progress.

As 2014 unfolds a new street layout and fresh buildings will begin to emerge from the now emptied plots. These are buildings that already have a life. For example, the new hotel above the railway station will be operated by Sleeperz who are leading a revival of the classic British railway hotel.

Sleeperz Hotel Dundee will be a 120-bedroom property in a stylish curved concourse above a new £22m redeveloped rail station, with panoramic views over the River Tay and onto the new waterfront plaza.

Work will begin later this year on Kengo Kuma’s iconic design for the V&A and space is being created for the addition of restaurants, bars and hotels, which is predicted to create more than 700 new tourism jobs, attract three million extra visitors and generate a further £1bn of spend in the city’s visitor economy.

www.dundeecity.gov.uk

Mock-ups of the Waterfront development provided by Dundee City Council.


constitutionaL DebateconstitutionaL Debate

Business taxes implications CURRENCY IMPLICATIONS

In a Scottish Chambers survey conducted last summer, business taxes were identified by 85% of respondents as an important issue for their business. 75% also stated that they wanted more information on this issue to help them understand the current policy direction promoted by the

respective campaigns.

ThE OPTIONS AvAILAbLE wITh A ‘NO’ vOTE1. Provisions in Scotland Act 2012 are implemented, with no

further changes

2. Further tax raising powers are devolved to Scotland

ThE OPTIONS AvAILAbLE wITh A ‘YES’ vOTE1. Scotland mirrors the taxation system used in the rest of the UK

2. Scotland mirrors some taxes used in the rest of the UK and amends others

3. Scotland establishes a separate taxation system

bUSINESS TAxES ARE IMPORTANTTax paid by businesses pays for public services and benefits. A competitive taxation system encourages enterprise and growth.

ThE POLICY DIRECTIONThe case for “independence” does not detail how business taxes, apart from corporation tax, would change in an independent Scotland.

LIkELY END GAME POSITION?Not enough information is known at this time to come to a view.

ThE POLICY DIRECTIONPost Scotland Act implementation, Scotland will be responsible for 16% of the tax raising powers. As yet, there has been no mention of further devolution of business taxes.

LIkELY END GAME POSITION?Option 1 – Provisions in Scotland Act 2012 are implemented, with no further changes to business taxation responsibilities.

INfORMATION UPDATE

4 Nov 2013 – The Scottish Government’s Fiscal Working Group published its Principles for a Modern and Efficient Tax System in an Independent Scotland. While it makes no recommendations about the levels of business taxation, the report states that the tax system should be used to encourage economic growth in the following areas: trade and investment, entrepreneurship, the development of growth sectors and innovation.26 Nov 2013 – The Scottish Government White Paper Scotland’s Future indicates that they would prioritise tax powers to develop growth sectors and companies. The paper states that, following

independence, the Scottish Government would examine how best to target tax reliefs to encourage innovative industries. They also plan to simplify the tax system, although no specific details have been provided.

Thanks to Rachel Elliot and James Bream of Aberdeen and Grampian Chamber of Commerce for this summary and analysis. For more information – [email protected]

This is a working document and will be updated as more information becomes available, see latest version at www.agcc.co.uk/policy1/#scotland-s-future

Helping to make deals happen is a big part of a corporate lawyer’s job description. Deals are also critical to the evolution and growth of our business sector. Businesses and their owners need them to achieve their objectives,

whether they are starting in business, buying into an established business, raising finance to grow, par tnering with another business or exiting. As businesspeople, we all have an interest in a commercial environment that supports a free flowing deals pipeline.

It would be fair to say that the pipeline has struggled to flow freely over the last 5 years or so. Starting with the credit crunch, a number of factors have conspired to suppress deals activity for some time. Many businesses have had to focus relentlessly on top and bottom line and perhaps paying down debt to keep themselves healthy, leaving little time to think about strategic moves.

But perhaps most critically, the loss of confidence triggered by the credit crunch and ensuing downturn has affected appetite for deals. Why acquire a business when it might be worth less tomorrow than you have paid today? Why sell a business when you feel it is unlikely to achieve its true value? Why invest when the return on that investment is uncertain?

There have of course been deals since the dark days of the credit crunch. In my firm’s experience, well-run companies in consolidating sectors, as well as innovative businesses in new and international markets have remained active in doing deals and raising finance. Businesses serving the oil and gas industry

have been gloom-defying and, of course, some distressed businesses have looked to merger to overcome their challenges.

Nevertheless, overall deal activity in Scotland has been subdued, suggesting a build-up of unmet demand for exits, strategic acquisitions and finance, driven by the inevitable need for succession and the desire of entrepreneurs and business to innovate and grow.

There is hope, however, that the environment is changing. With banks having repaired their balance sheets and regained an appetite for deals, the unremitting gloom of media reporting of the downturn having largely dispersed, and many businesses experiencing positive growth in their top and bottom lines, there are signs of more of the confidence required to see a deal through to completion.

Our recent experience is of clients talking more about deals in the pipeline, investing or seeking investment and of a higher volume of varied types of deal completing. For those of us who believe in business as a force for good in our region, that has to be a good thing, and something that we hope continues.

Which brings me back to the role of the corporate lawyer in helping make deals happen. The corporate team at Blackadders loves nothing more than helping a client get a deal across the line. Our experience covers virtually all sizes and types of deal, local, national and international, and we would love to help you achieve your objectives.

Returning Confidence Translating into Deals Activity

Campbell ClarkPartner Business – Corporate & Commercial

AD

VE

RT

SIN

G F

EA

TU

RE


skiLLs anD training

Internship – the key to successJennifer Kinnear and Rebecca Stott share their experiences of placements at the Chamber

RebeccaI live in Angus and am studying Hospitality and Tourism at Queen Margaret University. Part of my degree must be spent on placement within industry. After writing to numerous organisations I was delighted to be interviewed and accepted by Dundee & Angus Chamber of Commerce on my home patch.

Already, in the short time I’ve been here, I’ve gained experience in meetings and conferences, and have met many delegates. This has fuelled my enthusiasm for a future career in the tourism and service sector.

I’m hopeful by the end of my nine-month placement I’ll have gained useful contacts, mastered communication skills and gained valuable experience. With the V&A and Waterfront development on the horizon my placement couldn’t have been better timed.

I greatly appreciate the opportunity given to me by everyone at the Chamber.

JenniferDespite doing well at university, before I got my placement with the Chamber I was like most graduates – sending out masses of applications and CVs and being ignored, rejected or, even worse, falling at the final hurdle after interview.

I’d always kept an eye on the Adopt an Intern website, but all previous opportunities were in Glasgow or Edinburgh. As soon the opportunity of Business Project Co-ordinator in Dundee was posted I jumped at the chance to develop my skills and gain experience inside such a well-established organisation.

After the interview, when Sandra said she wanted me to join the team at the Chamber, I was elated. Almost immediately after the three-month internship ended, doors opened for me. I applied for and secured a job with Alliance Trust Savings and I’m confident this position will lead me on a prosperous career path.

I believe it’s not just the intern who benefits, but also the companies and organisations involved. Interns like me want to be useful. We want to learn, to network and make contacts. We want to earn a strong reference and have good work experience examples to use in competency-based interviews. I got all of that in my short placement with the Chamber and I’m so pleased my future is now looking so much brighter as a result.

Adopt an InternFounded in April 2010, Adopt an Intern has placed over 500 graduates in just under four years. Adopting an Intern is a simple and effective way for you to find a talented and enthusiastic graduate to join your team on a fixed, short-term basis to help complete a project that your business may not have the time, resource or skills to complete. For more information, visit www.adoptanintern.org.uk.


nhS

PLatinum Partner

Increase in revenue allocation for NHS Tayside

NHS Tayside Director of Finance Ian McDonald has welcomed confirmation of the initial revenue resource and capital allocations announced by the Cabinet

Secretary.

He said, “NHS Tayside has received an increase in its initial allocation for 2014-15 of £16m (2.5%) which will provide us with opportunities to further improve the health and healthcare of the people of Tayside. The capital allocation of £18.5m, which includes a 14.2% increase in formula capital, will allow us to invest in medical equipment, information management technology and maintain existing assets, as well as supporting a number of major capital developments.”

Health Secretary Alex Neil said, “The Scottish Government is committed to protecting spending on health and this budget allocation reflects an increase in real terms for every territorial health board across Scotland.

“This funding is part of an overall health budget totalling £12 billion. Investment in providing frontline care in our health service will ensure we can continue to deliver the best possible care to patients across Scotland.

“Continued investment in buildings and equipment will also enable us to provide state of the art facilities for patients and staff within our NHS. This demonstrates our excellent record of protecting investment in our NHS. By 2015-16 there will be an increase in resource spending of £2.1 billion since 2007 and between 2010-11 and 2015-16 the resource budget will have risen by 2.2 per cent in real terms.

“However, it is right that, despite protected budgets, the NHS is as efficient as possible with taxpayer’s money. That’s why health boards are making efficiency savings of three per cent, with all savings being reinvested in frontline care.”

Lesley McLay appointed as Chief Executive of NHS TaysideAnnouncing the appointment, Chairman of Tayside NHS Board Sandy Watson said, “I am delighted to welcome Lesley McLay as our new Chief Executive. She brings a unique combination of skills from the NHS and the private sector which, along with her huge capacity for hard work and her inclusive style, will be of immense value to NHS Tayside.

“Lesley has already demonstrated a real commitment to working with the Board of NHS Tayside and our many partners on an exciting agenda of consolidation, transformation and innovation, and I very much look forward to working with her.”

Accepting the appointment Lesley said, “In the time I’ve already spent here in Tayside I have had the privilege of working with people who are full of ambition and commitment, characteristics I’ve seen replicated from the frontline to the Board room.

“I know many challenges lie ahead and I look forward to working together with the Board, staff and our partners to meet those challenges head on and make a difference for the people and communities of Tayside.”

www.nhstayside.scot.nhs.uk

Lesley McLay, NHS Tayside’s new Chief Executive.

Pho

tos

pro

vid

ed b

y N

HS

Tays

ide.

Ninewells Hospital, Dundee.


JameS hutton inStitute

PLatinum Partner

Mylnefield Research Services translating science into better produce

Pho

tos

pro

vid

ed b

y th

e Ja

mes

Hu

tto

n In

stit

ute

.

Mylnefield Research Services Ltd (MRS), commercial affiliate of the James Hutton Institute, showcased its new potato and soft fruit varieties to more than

50,000 visitors at Fruit Logistica, the world’s leading international fresh produce event.

At the three-day event in Berlin, MRS presented its new potato varieties Jester and Wizard, which were bred in collaboration with Greenvale AP and Gemson, developed in collaboration with Grampian Growers.

Together with the Potato Council, Horticultural Development Company (HDC) and the Commercial Horticultural Association (CHA), MRS promoted seed potatoes from Britain and raised the profile of the diversity and quality of UK horticultural crops.

Dr Jonathan Snape, Commercial Director of MRS, said: “We are passionate about translating science into better products that consumers want to buy and producers want to grow, as well as into analytical services for industries.”

The James Hutton Institute in Dundee is known throughout the world for its breeding and research on soft fruit, especially

raspberries, blackcurrants and, increasingly, blueberries. These include household names such as the Glen series of raspberries, the Ben series of blackcurrants and the Loch Ness and Loch Tay blackberry varieties.

Underpinning the breeding programmes at the James Hutton Institute is a significant and wide-ranging research platform in plant genetics and diseases. The development of molecular techniques for increased efficiency has had a major impact on the breeding of new varieties.

Around 50% of blackcurrants and 15% of the raspberries grown worldwide are varieties bred by MRS at the James Hutton Institute. The company is also a leading breeder of potatoes, with varieties accounting for approximately 5% of the UK seed potato production.

The customer base of MRS ranges from local companies such as Angus Soft Fruits and Taypack to multi-nationals including PepsiCo, GlaxoSmithKline and Greenvale.

For more information on the James Hutton Institute and MRS, visit www.hutton.ac.uk and www.mrsltd.com.

Gemson potatoes on their way to Cornwall. We are passionate about translating science into better products that consumers want to buy and producers want to grow, as well as into analytical services for industries

Dr Jonathan Snape


new memberS

business Directory

Al-Maktoum College

Al-Maktoum College is an exciting and innovative development in teaching and research in the Study of Islam and Muslims. The Al-Maktoum College is educating the next generation of scholars through research-led postgraduate programmes within a multicultural context. Al-Maktoum College is not a religious organisation. It is an academic higher education institution examining the fields in the Study of Islam and Muslims. Dr Hossein Godazgar pictured.

www.almcollege.org.uk Tel: 01382 908070

Carnoustie Creative

Carnoustie Creative is a dynamic web design studio based in Carnoustie – their passion is making you look good online. Your website will be the first point of contact for many of your potential customers. Carnoustie Creative creates websites that reflect your commitment to your business and deliver results, helping SMEs punch above their weight online. Miles Gilmour pictured.

www.carnoustiecreative.co.uk Tel: 01241 460000

Computer Recycling Services Ltd

Established in 2002, Computer Recycling Services Ltd specialises in the recycling of electrical and electronic equipment. They provide their customers with a fully WEEE (Waste Electrical & Electronic Equipment) compliant means of recycling their redundant/obsolete electrical equipment. They are also fully SEPA (Scottish Environment Protection Agency) certified. Managing Director Archie Macfarlane pictured.

www.pc-recycling.com Tel: 01382 201311

D3 Audio & Visual Ltd

D3 Audio & Visual Ltd has led the way in AV design and installation having completed projects in the

most recognisable venues in Britain. The core of d3 is a desire to use the best solutions to deliver each customer’s vision within a realistic budget.Managing Director Marc Heath pictured.

www.d3av.co.uk Tel: 08450 043 304

Delson Contracts Ltd

Delson Contracts Limited is an independent, well-established business with an outstanding reputation for quality, reliability and excellent service. Formed in 1989, the company is involved in a wide variety of civil engineering, demolition and design and build contracts. Helen Stott pictured.

www.delson-contracts.com Tel: 01307 468666

Dundee Contemporary Arts

Dundee Contemporary Arts is a world-class centre for the development and exhibition of contemporary art and culture. This vision is delivered by our staff through our mission, aims and objectives, and is supported by our key stakeholders. Clive Gillman pictured.

www.dca.org.uk Tel: 01382 909900

FREEly mine!

FREEly mine! formed by Sarah Hamid, pictured, is a local business in the Dundee area supplying gluten, wheat and dairy-free cakes to well-

established coffee shops, distributors and a 5* Hotel. They are hand-baked with love and passion, using only the finest ingredients. FREEly mine! cakes are being enjoyed not only by consumers on restricted diets, but by all who fancy a treat!

www.freelymine.co.uk Tel: 07740 136969

HBB GeoSales Ltd

HBB GeoSales Ltd is a supplier and installer of cover and lining solutions to industry and the general public. The company specialises in cover and lining applications where environmental protection is the central function of the application, which includes

water, gas, odour and dust proofing as well as membrane barriers for contaminated materials and vapours. All our products are CE Certified and EU manufactured. Bruce Craik, Director, and Shauna Greenhill, Office Manager, pictured.

www.hbbgeosales.co.uk Tel: 01307 461499

Interim Management Scotland Ltd

Established in 2002, Interim Management Scotland Ltd is a small, focused and specialist provider of interim management talent - located in Scotland. They deploy senior managers on short-term appointments in a variety of sectors (predominantly SMEs and Public Sector) across a narrow suite of functional areas. George Wilson pictured.

www.interim-management-gb.co.uk Tel: 01307 468561

MandB Media

Since 1997, MandB Media has provided professional media training, broadcast standard DVD production and effective public relations to businesses and organisations across Scotland and beyond. The business was established by Neil Mudie, pictured, when he left BBC Scotland after 20 years as a reporter. Prior to that Neil worked in both newspapers and radio, covering general news stories. His long experience has given him the ability to work quickly and accurately, and to communicate effectively across all media outlets.

mandbmedia.org.uk Tel: 01382 542884

Quality System Scotland

Owned by Eileen Baird, pictured, Quality System Scotland provides project management, continuous improvement, quality management and training support to businesses of all sizes. Eileen frees up internal resources by managing ISO9001 responsibilities at a fraction of the cost of an in-house team. Bespoke in-house training includes ISO9001, internal audit, 5S workplace organisation, project management, mind mapping and user journeys.

www.qualitysystemscotland.co.uk Tel: 07800 936616


new memberS

business Directory

The Queen’s Hotel, Dundee

Built in 1878, the BEST WESTERN Queen’s Hotel is Dundee’s most prestigious, continuously-trading and privately-owned hotel which boasts impressive conference and banqueting facilities. It’s a short walk from the Overgate shopping centre, the university, Dundee Rep Theatre and a host of bustling West End bars and restaurants. It’s also ideally situated for golf lovers, with St Andrews, Carnoustie and a host of spectacular courses nearby. Gordon Sneddon pictured.

www.queenshotel-dundee.com Tel: 01382 322515

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service was established in April 2013 and brought together the collective skills and experience from across Scotland’s previous eight fire and rescue services. The Service works in close partnership with local communities to deliver crucial safety messages in the fight against fire. When emergencies do occur, the staff are ready and equipped to respond to a wide variety of situations. Bruce Farquharson pictured.

www.firescotland.gov.uk Tel: 01382 306250

Solar Cities Scotland

Solar Cities Scotland aims to develop and promote the use of renewable energy in all its forms and offer practical advice on low carbon living for urban communities across Scotland.

Their demonstration Eco House in Dundee serves as a base for staff to operate and as source for inspiration for the public to see renewables and Eco living in action. Helen Grayshan pictured.

www.solarcitiesscotland.org.uk Tel: 01382 501730

The Forster Group

The Forster Group of companies comprises Forster Energy who provide a bespoke solar PV installation solutions service, Forster Roofing who deliver

pitched roofing installation services and Forster Industrial who distribute specialist construction and industrial chemicals and membranes. Operating in the house builder, construction, public sector refurbishment, agriculture and commercial markets, we uniquely bring together our roofing and solar PV services to offer these sectors a completely integrated package. John Forster pictured.

The Watson Rooms

The Watson Rooms provide a number of services to enhance life experiences. A major service offered is HypnoBirthing antenatal classes, a new form of preparation to create a calm and comfortable birthing experience. The classes promote self-belief in prospective parents to control and manage their child birthing experiences through breathing techniques, imagery and visualisation, enabling them to engage fully with their newborn baby. Other services include talking therapies and hypnosis to support lifestyle changes, such as weight and exercise management. Interventions to address anxiety and self-esteem issues are also on offer. Further services are available for those experiencing difficulties with maintaining focus in academic or sporting activities. Gill Watson pictured.

www.watsonrooms.co.uk Tel: 01828 687845

True Potential

For private clients throughout the UK who seek to be better informed and empowered to reach their financial goals, True Potential offer a unique approach to wealth management. Unlike other financial advisory firms, they take technology further. Through the use of True Potential’s award-winning systems, they can provide clients with straightforward and transparent advice in a simple and convenient way.

www.tppcs.co.uk Tel: 01382 581324

W.N. Lindsay

W.N. Lindsay was formed in 1864 by William N. Lindsay in Leith. The company was based there until 1981 when the head office moved to Gladsmuir in East Lothian. The company has had a long association with agriculture and shipping, and has continually evolved to meet the changing demands of the marketplace. W.N. Lindsay remains a family-owned company with the 5th generation of Lindsays working for the company today.

www.wnlindsay.com Tel: 01674 840681

Wind Prospect Developments Ltd

Wind Prospect Developments Ltd (WPDL), on behalf of EDF Energy Renewables, is proposing the development of the Saddle Hill Wind Farm located approximately 7.5km north of Alyth. WPDL is part of Wind Prospect Group, a British company with almost two decades of expertise in developing wind farms and working with communities throughout the UK. The Edinburgh team was established over 10 years ago. Nicola Quinn pictured.

www.saddlehillwindfarm.co.uk Tel: 0131 2258545

YouTrain Ltd

YouTrain Ltd is a leading provider of IT and Microsoft training in Scotland, offering a wide range of courses including MCSE courses, MOS exams and IT apprenticeships. YouTrain is a vibrant training company that thrives on supporting and continually expanding its internal expertise. This ensures the company is able to continue to deliver a fully-comprehensive training experience to each and every learner. Louise Findlay pictured.

www.youtrain.com Tel: 01786 478478

What the Chamber can do for YOU!

For more details of how being a Chamber member brings many benefits, turn to page 45. Contact

Membership Manager Dave Nicholson on 01382 228545 or email [email protected] to discuss membership for your business.


guest business writer

Graham Huband reports on the growth of the renewable industry and how it will provide opportunities for local jobseekers

The road to Scotland’s green energy future has been long and winding. With potentially tens of billions of pounds of inward investment at stake, it is unsurprising that offshore

wind developers have kept their cards close to their chest about their plans. But with Energy Minister Fergus Ewing on the cusp of making the first formal planning determinations over major wind farms in Scottish waters, the question of how Scotland can best benefit from a growth industry is as pertinent as ever.

Experience from the North Sea oil and gas industry has shown that one of the greatest challenges facing the sector is feeding it with a continuing flow of relevantly-skilled workers.

Dundee and Angus has long been a fertile recruitment ground for the offshore sector and with the prospect of up to £15bn of offshore wind array projects on our doorstep in the coming years the region will have a central role to play in the roll out of renewables.

Dundee College recognised the gap in the market in 2011 when it topped out its suite of green energy courses with the addition of two degree level courses in renewable technologies. That focus on developing core skills has continued since Dundee and Angus College came together following a merger in November last year.

Jim Stewart, Curriculum Manager Engineering, said the demands of the renewable industry were growing and provided a unique opportunity for local jobseekers.

“Before there was a perception that all these jobs were in Aberdeen, but now people are seeing that jobs are being created around the west coast and east coast, and that there are massive opportunities.

“We’re getting school kids in who are coming along and getting some very basic skills in welding, manufacturing and mechanical

fitting, and we’re being invited by schools to come along and discuss opportunities for engineering.

“People are realising that engineering is not just something you do while stuck in a workshop. You can travel all over the world doing this and I would envisage the renewables sector being the same as oil and gas in that respect.

“Aberdeen and the surrounding district leads the world in offshore drilling and we could be the same when they start on these deep water turbines they want to put in. These people we’re training are going to be much sought after.”

However, developing the next generation of welders, platers and fabricators for large scale renewables is only one facet of the green energy revolution.

Dundee University is also set to play a major role in driving forward the sector. In January it was announced the institution was to host a £2m marine renewables test centre to help in the development of construction materials for harsh environment projects.

While a huge amount of variables remains in the development of the sector – Electricity Market Reform, connection charging and the post referendum constitutional framework to name but a few – there is clear political support for renewables in Scotland with Holyrood having adopted a vision stating that 100% of the country’s electricity needs should be generated from green energy sources by 2020.

Practical skills, talent and innovation – exactly the attributes being instilled in further education establishments across Dundee and Angus – will be key and will provide huge economic opportunities. That must be grasped with both hands.

Graham HubandBusiness Editor at The CourierPh

oto

s p

rovi

ded

by

DC

Th

om

son

& C

o L

td.


membershiP benefits

What the Chamber can do for YOU!bUSINESS MENTORINGA free service which enables Chamber members to learn through the experience of others using our free Business Mentoring service.

SCOTTISh ChAMbERS fOREIGN ExChANGEScottish Chambers FX has direct access to wholesale currency markets and is able to pass on the resultant savings to members. SCFX charges no fees for transactions in excess of £5k and doesn’t charge commission.

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

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

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

CONfERENCE ROOMOur conference room offers excellent facilities and flexible layouts for a wide variety of uses from meetings to training and press conferences. Up to one hour free for Chamber members and discounts on longer sessions.

ChAMbER EvENTSRegular and early evening events, annual golf day and networking breakfast, plus many more events including procurement and training.

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

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

The Chamber has so much to offer and amazingly the fees have remained at the current level for four years as we understand it’s been a tough time for businesses. It’s

fantastic value for money!

CHAMBER SERVICESSAvE MONEY ON fUELThe Dundee & Angus Chamber of Commerce’s fuel card partnership deal means you can enjoy fuel cost savings, with free credit and reduced administration, backed by personal service and security.

When you fill up with diesel or petrol, you can ignore the price shown on the pump. Even better, you don’t have to pay for the fuel there and then. With a fuel card from The Fuelcard People you can enjoy many terrific benefits.

• Reduced annual card charges for all members, free of charge first 12 months, £6 per card per annum thereafter (half price)

• Discount diesel and petrol• Up to 5p a litre off pump prices• Savings of up to 10p per litre at motorway pumps• Interest-free credit• Reduce your administration• Single invoice for easy VAT reclaim• No cash involved - just controlled card purchases• Chip and pin facility on most cards

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

ChAMbER wESTfIELD hEALTh PLANThis plan from Westfield Health is unique to Chamber members and helps reduce absenteeism and improve staff recruitment and retention.

CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP JOINING FEES

BAND EMPLOYEESANNUAL FEE

EXCLUDING VATANNUAL FEE

INCLUDING VAT

A 1 £140 £168

B 2-5 £200 £240

C 6-15 £260 £312

D 16-30 £335 £402

E 31-50 £395 £474

F 51-100 £515 £618

G 101-250 £645 £774

H 251-500 £805 £966

I 501-1000 £1040 £1248

J 1000+ £1560 £1872

For further information contact Dave Nicholson, our Membership Manager, on 01382 228545, or email Dave at [email protected], visit the website at www.dundeeandanguschamber.co.uk


eVentS round-uP

chamber business What’s been happening and what’s coming up

Dates for your diary

Hire the Right People, Empower Your Staff and Unleash Their Potential Thursday 3 April, 2014, 2pm – 4pmDACC Meeting Room, 27 City Quay, Camperdown Street, Dundee, DD1 3JA

Business for Scotland – Independence Referendum DebateTuesday 22 April, 2014, 6pm – 8pmDalhousie Building, University of Dundee, Old Hawkhill, Balfour Street, Dundee, DD1 4HB

Networking at the RacesWednesday 23 April, 2014, doors open 12 noon First race 2pmPerth Racecourse, McDiarmid Park, Crieff Road, Perth, PH1 2SJ

Sickness Absences, Including Disability- related AbsencesThursday 24 April, 2014, 9.30am – 12 noonThorntons, 33 Yeaman Shore, Dundee, DD1 4BJ

Ladies Day 2014 at Perth RacecourseThursday 15 May, 2014, 11am – 7pmPerth Racecourse, McDiarmid Park, Crieff Road, Perth, PH1 2SJ

Chamber Golf DayFriday 23 May, 2014, 12 noon – 8pm Piperdam Golf & Leisure Resort, Fowlis, Dundee, DD2 5LP

Breakfast visit to Nynas Refinery

Spotting IT security cracks

Packed audience hears about Modern Apprenticeships

Chamber members visit local electronics hidden gem

Helping young people into work

Seven Cities Alliance Business Leaders meet Nicola Sturgeon, Deputy First Minister

Nick Ashton of Nynas shows Chamber members round the refinery.

Gary Mitchelson, Rigmar Fabrication, at the first Why Young People Could Be the Key to the Future of Your Business in association with Skills Development Scotland.

Left to right: Stephen Leckie, Perthshire Chamber of Commerce, Colin Crosby, ACSEF, Professor Sir Jim Macdonald, GEL, Sandra Burke, Dundee & Angus Chamber of Commerce, Nicola Sturgeon, Deputy First Minister, Fraser Grieve, Highlands and Islands Chamber of Commerce, Gordon Bell, Stirling Enterprise Park, Hugh Rutherford, Edinburgh Business Forum.

Steve Ross of Shackleton addresses IT security issues.

Delegates at Shackleton’s Does Your It System Have Security Cracks?

Delegates at the fully-booked Stoneridge Explorer Breakfast.

Tony Banks of Balhousie Care Group at the second Why Young People Could Be the Key to the Future of Your Business event in association with Skills Development Scotland.

Pho

to p

rovi

ded

by

Sco

ttis

h G

ove

rnm

ent.

Photo by GSR Photography.

Photo provided by Stoneridge Electronics.

Pho

to b

y G

SR P

ho

tog

rap

hy.

Photo © Siobhan Diamond Photography.

Web Design

Digital Development

Software Development

Mobile & Apps

Social Media

Avian HouseBrook StreetBroughty FerryDundee DD5 1DJ

T 01382 223111

www.blue2.co.uk

Our Dynamic Earth, Edinburgh,

launched March 2014

dynamicearth.co.uk

British Society of Cell Biology,

launched March 2014

bscb.org Apollo Perelini Rugby

Skills Academy, Dubai,

launched February 2014

aprsa.com

37432 Avian_Dundee Chamber A4 advert_Spring_37432 Avian_Dundee Chamber A4 advert_Spring 21/03/2014 16:04 Page 1

A reputation built on trust.

Contact Numbers

Aberdeen 01224 588913

Dundee 01382 229222

Edinburgh 0131 222 8000

Our intuitive understanding of our clients’ needs has allowed us

to build strong and long lasting relationships with those we act for.

We advise a wide range of businesses from Blue-chip companies

through to small family run firms but our approach to each client

remains the same – we use our expertise and knowledge to deliver

the results they need on time and on budget.

www.blackadders.co.uk

36560 Chamber of Commerce Advert_36560 Chamber of Commerce Advert 14/03/2014 14:20 Page 1

incommerce spring 2014

Documents

member directors

chamber members gsk

board of directors

new president

demanding business

new member of dundee

new directors deborah

continued business success