Business Comment AUGUST/SEPTEMBER2019
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+44 (0) 20 7127 5125 | [email protected] | www.aoecscotland.com CONTENTS
8 Focus: St James Development
38 Scottish rugby - scoring on circular economy The Fringe -More than an 24 international arts festival
Contents and Introduction 03 International Chamber News 04 | 06 Developing Edinburgh 08 Welcome to the Business Comment, your Every route that opens sees new trade magazine. begin. That is apparent in our healthy Feature: Leadership 09 tourism sector. The magazine examines In this issue we look at Edinburgh’s role the city’s increasing international popularity, Chamber News 10 on the international stage, appropriately and a 20% growth in international visitors enough as the city revels in the annual (to more than 2 million last year) tells an Top Tips 14 influx of its world-famous international increasingly successful story. Managing Member News 15 summer festivals. the growth in tourism is a challenge for And centre stage amongst our festivals is us all to consider as we seek to balance Corporate View 18 the Edinburgh Fringe. The magazine looks the employment and opportunity tourism at how this phenomenon – the world’s first brings with protecting the very fabric of the New Members 20 | 21 festival fringe – grew from relatively humble city that visitors find so attractive. Special Report: International 24 | 27 beginnings in 1947 to today’s enormous Those seeking to become more undertaking, with more than 3000 shows international in their businesses would do Race to Zero 28 | 33 taking place from 63 different countries. well to check out the forthcoming Chamber Chamber Partners 34 Now that is international! training courses identified in the magazine. Developing Young Workforce 35 The festivals are massively important to Finally, elsewhere in the magazine you can the capital’s economic well-being. We are learn about the innovative circular economy In Conversation With 36 increasingly familiar with the statistic that thinking by those in charge of the oval- tells us our annual festivals are equivalent – shaped ball at Scottish Rugby, as they cut Chamber Training 37 in terms of numbers of tickets sold – to the down on waste. Game on. city hosting a football World Cup each and Chamber: Circular Economy 38 every year. 60 Seconds 39 Equally important though, is our international airport. The city’s busiest Get with IT 39 gateway to the World in terms of Inspiring Connections 40 | 41 passengers, in this issue the airport’s Chief Executive Gordon Dewar puts a strong case Chamber Partners 42 | 44 for the continued joined-up marketing of Edinburgh as an international destination International Update 45 city to help drive new international routes Liz McAreavey Edinburgh’s Newcomers 46 which, in turn, opens up new opportunities. Chief Executive, Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce Cover photo credit: This is Edinburgh (www.edinburgh.org)
August/September 2019 BC 3 CHAMBER NEWS
Struth ready to make his mark in the capital Having been appointed as Edinburgh Rugby’s Managing Director last month, Douglas Struth admits that he ‘couldn’t wait to get started’ as he takes the reigns of his hometown team.
Raised in Edinburgh, Struth appears to be the perfect fit for the BT Murrayfield-based team, who’ve made significant strides in the past two seasons. “Edinburgh is very much home for me and my family,” explained Struth, who was previously Head of Legal at Scottish Rugby. “I live in Corstorphine - where I grew up and went to Primary School - with various generations of close family living nearby. “My connection with Edinburgh Rugby really started in the late 1990’s and I’ve followed the team through various guises and at various home grounds ever since as a regular Season Ticket holder.” Although a clearly passionate supporter of the club, Struth’s strong background in both law and Scottish Rugby make him perfectly equipped for the Managing Director role. Having trained as a lawyer with Maclay, Murray & Spens (now club sponsor Dentons), Struth commercial partners, the clubs and schools in that, in truth, he remains an Edinburgh Rugby built up a strong commercial legal background our area as well as the wider community.” supporter at heart. over a six-year period with Royal Bank of Struth clearly has a vision for success and a From the historic victory over Toulouse at Scotland, both in Edinburgh and through a large part of that blueprint comes with building Meadowbank in 2004, to this past season’s three-year role with the bank’s international on the positive strides made under Head Coach Heineken Champion’s Cup European adventure, legal team based in Jersey. Richard Cockerill. Struth was there, and the new Managing Director is looking forward to playing his part as He then spent a further three years as a Senior The former England hooker has breathed the club makes further history. Lawyer at Virgin Money, working on a range of significant life into Edinburgh Rugby since high-profile strategic projects and acquisitions, being appointed two years ago and that “I’ve loved supporting Edinburgh Rugby over before joining Scottish Rugby in 2014 and resurgence has seen Edinburgh return to the the years, while I’ve cherished the first matches progressing to Head of Legal. In that role, Heineken Champions Cup in 2018/19 as well that I took my children to as well. I’ve loved Struth worked closely with Edinburgh Rugby as retain the historic 1872 Cup in back-to-back watching my 9-year old catching his own and developed a deep understanding of the campaigns. version of the Edinburgh Rugby bug! club. “As a club, we have seen a huge amount of “That’s part of what Edinburgh Rugby matches “So much of my background has been about progress on and off the field in recent times,” are all about, creating cherished memories building relationships and engaging with continued Struth. among family, friends and colleagues.” people,” explained Struth. “We will be building on that progress and we can Season Ticket Memberships for the 2019/20 “As Managing Director at Edinburgh Rugby, all look forward to watching some top-drawer campaign are now on sale at edinburghrugby.org. I see that process as being crucial to the performances in both the Guinness PRO14 and If your business is interested in joining ongoing success of the club as well and it’s Europe from an excellent squad, led by a world- Edinburgh Rugby’s Business Club, please get in something that I am keen to apply. class head coach, against quality opposition. touch with the club’s Head of Commercial, Ben “It’s so important that we engage and build As Struth continues to find his feet in the job, Slater, for further information: relationships with our supporters, our what makes part of his appointment so fun is [email protected]
“My connection with Edinburgh Rugby really started in the late 1990’s and I’ve followed the team through various guises and at various home grounds ever since as a regular Season Ticket holder.”
4 BC August/September 2019 CHAMBER NEWS
DJ Alexander named as one of 1,000 companies to inspire UK Leading property management company DJ Alexander has been named as one of the 1,000 companies to inspire Britain in the annual London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG) publication.
The independent report has identified the top ambition, innovation and entrepreneurial 1,000 fastest growing companies in Britain with drive, and all are to be congratulated on their a turnover of between £6m and £250m which achievements.” are characterised as being dynamic growth David Alexander, joint managing director of companies creating jobs and generating wealth Apropos by DJ Alexander who has almost 40 in an innovative, driven and inspirational way. years of experience in property management, As David Schwimmer, CEO of the LSEG, said: “We are delighted to be included in this explains in the report: “Ensuring that dynamic annual report, it reflects the commitment and growth companies can realise their potential hard work of our extraordinary team at DJ is vital to the UK’s future prosperity. Small and Alexander. The team have worked hard over medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) – accounting the last few years to help our firm to deliver for 60% of all private sector employment – the highest quality service for our clients. And drive growth, innovation and job creation and we look forward to continuing development are the lifeblood of the British economy.” He and growth in the coming years as we launch continues: “The overall revenue growth of the Apropos by DJ Alexander, our new innovative companies featured 108%. Companies in this Liz Cameron, Director and Chief Executive service. This will extend our business across year’s report together created 95,827 UK jobs of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce, the whole of the UK, and allow us to continue over the past two-year period, a 39% increase commented: “The outstanding businesses our focus on offering high quality service for compared to last year’s report.” contained in the publication display immense landlords and tenants.”
Edinburgh firm lights up complex project A city centre office block in Scotland’s capital is being shown in a whole new light, after Specialized Signs completed work on a complex project that required a totally bespoke solution.
The Edinburgh-headquartered firm, which Graham Sim, Managing Director at Specialized celebrates a decade in business this year, Signs said: “We started at the smaller offers a range of services for all aspects area at reception; built three sections and of signage including design, manufacture, when approved we then manufactured the installation and maintenance. The business remaining cubes for that area. When we got has been involved in several prestigious final approval, a team of 6 installed these three projects over the years, including the sections and went on to manufacture / install the remaining cubes for the full staircase installation of signage at Glasgow’s SSE Hydro area. The cubes were cornered and presented Arena. unexpected challenges. Two days were spent Specialized Signs were approached about an trying different LED layouts for reception & the illuminated signage installation at Exchange staircase elevation proved even more difficult. Tower two-and-half years ago. The company “The team pulled out all the stops to meet was tasked with installing two sections of the clients needs. Everybody is over the 3-dimensional illuminated cubes, one at the moon with it, and so are we. This job has front of the building reception area and the gone perfectly. The manufacture was time other scaling the building staircase elevation & consuming, but it was an amazing project to wrapping around the top, some 80ft high. be involved with.”
August/September 2019 BC 5 CHAMBER NEWS
Optimism amongst UK mid-market businesses rises slightly, but remains well below pre-referendum levels
UK business optimism remains subdued at net 13% (net 10% in H2 2018) Global business optimism falls from net 39% in H2 2018 to net 32%
However, growth prospects remain stable with more than half (52%) of UK businesses recording revenue growth above 5% over the past 12 months New research from Grant Thornton’s International Business Report (IBR) finds that optimism amongst the UK’s mid-sized businesses* (MSBs) remains subdued, up to just 13%** from 10% in H2 2018. This comes as widespread uncertainty around the world has dented global business confidence, from 39% in H2 2018 to 32% - the lowest global level for three years. The research found that UK businesses are generally scaling back on investment, with only 6% of businesses planning to increase their investment in new buildings. This is down from 8% in H2 2018 and the lowest level recorded since Q4 2010. Investment expectations in plant and machinery also remain subdued, dropping from 19% of businesses expecting to increase investment (H2 2018) to 15%. In contrast, UK businesses’ investment intentions in technology are Monica much healthier, with 38% of businesses Gizzi expecting to increase investment in this area (from 33% H2 2018). Globally, the number of businesses expecting to increase export levels remained steady at 21%. However, the UK saw a slight dip as the More than half of UK businesses (52%) also time. This should include having a clear number of businesses expecting to increase reported revenue growth above 5% over the growth strategy in place that allows for some their export capacity in the next twelve past 12 months. Similarly, almost one-third months dropped from 20% (H2 2018) to 18%. flexibility depending on the Brexit outcome. (30%) had grown their staff levels by more Grant Thornton’s award-winning Growth 365 Businesses around the world are still citing than 5% in the past year. This suggests programme has been helping clients during economic uncertainty as the main constraint that businesses are reaping the benefits this time by combining entrepreneurial to growth, with 46% pointing to this as a of adapting to the uncertainty of recent thinking with insights, real experience and years, having employed a clearer focus on concern (from 49% in H2 2018). In the UK, networks to seek new opportunities and 54% of businesses noted this as their biggest their core strengths and spotting prudent create value in their business.” constraint (from 59% in H2 2018). diversification opportunities. * Grant Thornton’s International Business Report surveyed However, growth prospects remain stable Monica Gizzi, Growth 365 Manager at respondents from 510 UK companies with revenue between with the number of businesses in the UK Grant Thornton UK LLP, commented: “It is £15m-£1bn, in May and June of 2019. expecting to increase revenue levels in the important for businesses to focus on those ** Figures represent net balance percentages (e.g. total who next twelve months rising from 31% in H2 elements that they can control whilst in this responded ‘very’ or ‘slightly’ optimistic less total ‘very’ or 2018 to 38% in H1 2019. politically and economically challenging ‘slightly’ pessimistic).
6 BC August/September 2019 BC ADVERTORIAL
You’ve Got A Great Marketing Team - Why Do You Need PR?
When times are tough, businesses often cut the PR budget first - and small businesses may not have one at all. After all, PR is just one part of the Marketing mix, right? Wrong!
To view PR as just another Marketing tool is to limit the scope of PR activities to lead generation, customer acquisition and sales. Of course, these things are important, but PR can do so much more. I have seen a number of examples of where short-term sales-driven marketing has damaged the long-term reputation of a business. And once your reputation has been damaged it is time consuming, difficult and costly to recover it – it may even be impossible. One such example was during the Arab Spring, when I was based in Dubai and working across the region. As the protests in Egypt reached their zenith and people were congregating in Tahrir Square to protest, one well-known American fashion brand decided this was too good a trending social media event to miss. The company rushed in and tweeted that people were flocking to Tahrir Square because of their sale. To equate a very serious political movement in a country that was essentially on lock down – it took me three worrying days to confirm my employees, as well as customers and potential but if you only measure success by sales colleagues in Cairo were safe – with something customers. Marketing tends to take a much volumes, profitability or employee churn, then as trivial as a clothing sale, showed a lack of narrower view and concentrates mainly on you are forgetting the value of your reputation. understanding of the market and the situation existing and potential customers. It is difficult to measure the impact of a good that was staggering. I have worked in businesses where PR reported reputation, but it is easy to see the impact of a As you might imagine, the tweet caused an through Marketing, through the CFO, through bad one. uproar and for weeks any online search for HR and directly to the CEO. In my experience, PR is a tool that will help your business that company revealed nothing but negative the direct reporting line to the CEO is by far the communicate the right messages to the right comments. The insensitivity and opportunism most effective. Perhaps this is because the audiences. Ultimately, good PR should ensure of this brand is what I will always associate CEO is the only other role that takes a holistic your business is more profitable, but it will also with it. I had been a customer of this company view of the business and its stakeholders. The ensure lasting and positive relationships with before, but I haven’t bought from them since. I other parts of the business are measured by a whole host of stakeholders – and that could am sure I’m not the only one. a narrower set of criteria – for Marketing it is be the difference between real success or the usually sales performance, for HR it is often This is a clear example of social media failure of your business. While Marketing is employee engagement scores and in the case channels being run by marketers, whose only of the CFO it is financial performance – but important – don’t forget the importance of PR! thought was about driving short-term sales. how can you monetise a well written letter to They didn’t consider the long-term reputation of Heather Astbury is MD of The Reputation a politician or a slick crisis communications the business. Had their social media feed been People. She can be contacted on plan? How do you directly compare a positive run by a PR team this wouldn’t have happened. [email protected] article in a key media outlet with achieving Why? your sales targets? Employee engagement www.thereputationpeople.com PR teams are used to thinking about numerous scores are unlikely to be good without good audiences and messaging that will work internal communications. And how do you for them all. Those audiences encompass prove that winning an award translates into everything from investors to shareholders, more customers? We all know that these media to politicians, clients to suppliers, and things make a huge difference to a business,
August/September 2019 BC 7 DEVELOPING EDINBURGH
Focus: St James Development Edinburgh has all of the fundamentals needed to deliver a large-scale regeneration project: a World Heritage site, quality transport links, a business hub, a vibrant festival culture and a tourism trade second only to London.
Capitalising on this opportunity, the Edinburgh The much-anticipated £1bn development is handpicked brand partners in order to provide a St James development will completely redefine due to open its retail and restaurant element world-class retail offering. retail-led, mixed-use regeneration in the U.K., in 2020, followed by full scheme completion In addition to being at the centre of the city’s and is one of the most significant regeneration in 2021, strengthening Edinburgh’s position projects currently underway. Through the scale, as one of Europe’s most exciting and festival spirit, Edinburgh St James has also innovation and quality of its offer, Edinburgh cosmopolitan cities. teamed up with the public sector to deliver St James will reposition Edinburgh as one once-in-a-generation improvements to roads, Edinburgh St James most recently welcomed pavements and the public realm. Pulling of the most exciting, forward thinking and Zara to the scheme, with the fashion retailer together different strands and using Edinburgh sought after destinations for retail and leisure set to move into 37,000 sq ft of space. Inditex, St James as a focal point, this regeneration operators in Europe. the Spanish multinational clothing company effort will ensure the central vein of the city’s that owns Zara, will also bring its Bershka, Once completed, it will feature 850,000 sq ft of transport network is inextricably linked to the Stradivarius and Pull&Bear brands to Edinburgh, retail and leisure space. This includes 85 new scheme. shops, over 30 new restaurants, Edinburgh’s in a clear vote of confidence in the city. All four brands will all be located within the main first Everyman Cinema, 152 apartments, a The positive effects of the development will multilevel shopping galleria. striking 12-storey W Edinburgh, a Roomzzz be felt by Edinburgh for many years to come. Aparthotel with 75 rooms, as well as three new The project has a vision to deliver a destination Having already created 5,000 jobs during public squares. With its 24-hour leisure offering, that builds on Edinburgh’s famous event construction, Edinburgh St James will continue Edinburgh St James is set to revolutionise and calendar, drives engagement to nine events to provide 3,000 permanent, full-time jobs for regenerate the city’s East End. spaces, and to deliver a collection of local people.
8 BC August/September 2019 FEATURE: LEADERSHIP
Learning from the best? What the international leaders of today can teach the best of us.
By Iain Gibson Associate Partner, Charlotte Street Partners
“Leadership”. It’s an overused word nowadays, isn’t it? Like “empower” and “innovation”, it has been abused, casually misused, and morphed into a piece of management speak. For me, the line was crossed when I saw a video several years ago from the World Economic Forum where one of the people being interviewed styled himself as a “leadership empowerment innovator”. If you have any idea what this means, do feel free to drop me a line. To be clear, my issue is not with the words themselves, more with those who deploy them in a manner that is vacuous, vague, or in the vernacular. An increased focus on better leadership, more empowered populations and true innovation has been a positive development in the early years of this century, a development which spans continents and governments of many different ideologies. But I’m not sure new environments, your respect for other The most successful of them – and we any of that progress can be attributed to cultures, and make friends across borders? can classify leaders as successful even anyone who called themselves a “leadership Then Canada’s prime minister Justin Trudeau if we don’t agree with their views or their empowerment innovator”. is one to take lessons from, especially as methods – are able to marry administrative he is now far more popular abroad than at competence with the ability to clearly So, at a time of unprecedented technological home. articulate what they are about, what they advancement and a realignment of a want, and what they can do for you. global order that has been more or less Are you offering (or at least claiming to offer) unchallenged for a century, what can we different solutions from what has gone Dianne Feinstein, the veteran US Senator, learn from those who currently lead the way before? France’s Emmanuel Macron and is credited with saying: “Ninety percent of on the world stage? Brazil’s Jair Bolsonaro are worth watching, leadership is the ability to communicate even if they come from polar opposite ends something people want.” We can quibble on Well, in many ways, it depends on what of the political spectrum. the percentages, but no doubt that if you get you want to learn. Presentation matters, this bit right, then you will take people with Perhaps you yourself are evidence of the that’s for sure, and the way leaders present you. themselves is one of the most important change, rather than just an enabler or elements of the job. Some may grimace at messenger of it. In that case, look to Ellen How you carry yourself is a vital first step what they consider superficial concerns, but Johnson Sirleaf in Liberia, Jacinda Ardern in in getting things done. If you come across who can deny that initial impressions are New Zealand or Cuba’s Miguel Diaz-Canel, as capable, with a message that is easy to important, that they can help make working the latter by dint of the fact he isn’t a member understand and a proper sense of where you together easier and create new avenues of the Castro family. are headed, you will accomplish many more of the objectives you’ve set for yourself and for co-operation, just as readily as they can The change you are advocating might be your nation. switch you off? a very basic, even retrograde one, such as When it comes to foreign affairs and increased security or a return to a “better These principles can be applied to the diplomacy, which is where residents of time”. Step forward Rodrigo Duterte of the corporate universe as well. It’s not a sufficient other countries are most likely to notice Philippines or one Donald John Trump from substitute for actually running a country well them, different world leaders offer us Queens, NY. or managing a company efficiently. But it’s a great place to start. contrasting sets of skills. Do you want to These people, and the approximately 190 demonstrate how easily you can adapt to others who lead nations, are all different. www.charlottestpartners.co.uk
August/September 2019 BC 9 CHAMBER NEWS A new dawn as azuma arrives on the LNER Flying Scotsman route London North Eastern Railway (LNER) launched Azuma passenger services on the prestigious East Coast route between Edinburgh and London.
The inaugural LNER Azuma service departed created with colours that represent the regions Class make it easy for customers to find Edinburgh Waverley at 05:40 as dawn broke on and communities it serves. reserved or available seats on-board. a new age of rail travel along the 393-mile route Created by renowned tartan designer Ken The new Azuma trains are part of the connecting the Scottish and English capital MacDonald, based in Paisley, the Azuma train Government’s £5.7billion Intercity Express cities. working the inaugural ‘Flying Scotsman’ service Programme which will modernise LNER David Horne, LNER Managing Director, said: will display a new livery featuring the tartan, the services on the key intercity route used by more “This marks the beginning in a new age of rail first Azuma train to sport a special livery. than 22 million people each year. travel in Britain with our Azuma trains being Azuma is a game-changer for cross-border The inaugural northbound London King’s Cross launched on our Edinburgh route. Azuma trains long-distance travel. The new world-class fleet to Edinburgh service will depart London King’s by LNER offer more seats, better WiFi, more will help create more regular journey times of Cross at 17:30 and will call at Peterborough, reliability and will ultimately offer faster journey just four hours between Edinburgh and London Newark North Gate, York, Darlington, Durham, times between the two cities. with the introduction of a new timetable from Newcastle, Alnmouth, Dunbar and arrive at “The Azuma experience is the proud tradition of 2021. All existing trains on the route will be Edinburgh Waverley at 22:10. LNER setting new standards in rail travel. From replaced with a fleet of 65 new Azuma trains The environmental benefits of the new trains extra legroom, improved accessibility and more built in the North East of England. are transformational. The Azuma fleet will cut environmentally friendly, our new trains are truly Azuma trains boast a dedicated ‘Let’s Eat Cafe harmful emissions by 90 per cent compared to transformational.” Bar’ in addition to the ever-popular at-seat existing High Speed Trains (HSTs) as well as “The original Flying Scotsman train entered trolley service in Standard Class. Customers reducing noise at stations and for communities passenger service in 1862 when the locomotive in First Class will enjoy complimentary two- living along the East Coast route. was introduced between Edinburgh and course meals freshly prepared in the onboard The on-board environment is a significant London. Throughout its 157-year history the kitchens using locally sourced ingredients. improvement for all customers including those service has endured as a symbol of speed and First Class also includes larger tables, reclining who require wheelchair access, Priority Seats, excellence on the East Coast route. We are seats and both USB and plug sockets at every seat. Universal Access Toilets, clearer exterior and excited to be continuing that proud tradition interior passenger information screens and with the first Azuma passenger train being our The seats have been designed to maximise audio announcements. Flying Scotsman service.” comfort and support posture. A new traffic light seat reservation system alongside clear digital To celebrate the launch of Azuma services displays above seats in First and Standard to Scotland, LNER unveiled its official tartan,
10 BC August/September 2019 BC ADVERTORIAL Leading Accountancy Firm, Douglas Home & Co, urge businesses to plan for the future Uncertainty lies ahead for companies following the unknown impact of Brexit on the British economy.
However, leading accountancy firm, Douglas existing structures and create opportunities for Home & Co, are encouraging businesses to take retirement and succession.’ this opportunity to evaluate their position and investigate if there is potential to diversify or re- Douglas Home & Co have been specialists in structure to reduce risk and save money if times accountancy, tax and business development become tough. for over 35 years and therefore can confidently guide a business through the best route for a Company Director and Head of Advisory, restructure. Although every business situation Victoria Bewley, suggested that businesses is unique, the majority result in business and could diversify slightly by using more innovative asset transfers, share capital reorganisations, methods which could create opportunities for creation of new entities, takeovers, mergers and research and development tax credits. Far too in a specific area. This can also help your de-mergers as well as joint ventures. Although often, companies within different industries are business to become more competitive within these are big decisions to make, sometimes unaware of their eligibility for a R&D programme its sector therefore being a great addition to a they are crucial to ensure the business remains which could save them money. For example, development strategy.’ successful. within architecture, designing construction Mike Johnston, Director and Tax Specialist, also With 8 offices across Scotland and Northern documents, developing schematic designs and added, ‘By taking a step back and evaluating developing unique energy efficient features are England, Douglas Home & Co offer a range of what direction the company should go in compliance and specialist services to rural and only a few examples of activities that could the future, it may become obvious that the qualify for a R&D project. corporate clients. The firm prides itself on being company’s structure needs reviewed. Planning a ‘director-led’ organization where its people are Victoria stated, ‘By looking into what R&D for the future can often lead to significant its greatest asset and they go beyond traditional projects may be available to your business, you business changes, resulting in restructures. accountancy and tax return. To find out more could potentially save money by reducing your This can help to reduce uncertainty and about Douglas Home & Co visit tax bill and grow the business by specialising mitigate risk, ensure tax efficiency, simplify www.douglashomeandco.co.uk
Our people are our greatest asset
When faced with uncertain times, there are more effective ways of planning for the future.
We’re Brexit ready when you are.
t: 01573 225082 w: dhco.co.uk t: 01573 225082 w: dhco.co.uk DARRENOFFICES THOMSON ACROSS SCOTLAND AND NORTHERN ENGLAND DIRECTOR OFFICES THROUGHOUT THE SCOTTISH BORDERS AND BEYOND
August/September 2019 BC 11 BC ADVERTORIAL
The rise in work-based learning and how you can benefit Work-based learning is a growing educational strategy that offers the opportunity to combine work and studies by putting theory into practice with real-life work experiences.
This can vary from mentorship programmes Today, many people opt to gain their the ambition and developing the vision of and internships to graduate apprenticeships undergraduate and postgraduate degree their staff. and professional masters courses. This trend qualifications through work-based learning over is catalysed by many initiatives including the traditional modes of study. Graduate Apprenticeships leading to an Government’s target of 30,000 apprenticeship honours degree. This option allows students starts each year by 2020. to study for an undergraduate degree while Study while you work working. This approach to learning is highly beneficial for Edinburgh Napier University provides a range not only the student but also their employers. of routes to an academic qualification that There is also a wide range of courses More importantly, it gives individuals a support a work-based learning approach, giving to choose from that are delivered part- competitive edge, making them more desirable you flexibility in your learning and professional time, online and via distance learning, to to recruit, as well as giving them the opportunity development to enhance your career and give maximum flexibility, allowing a full for career progression. develop your specialist skills. Options include: balance between studies and other life commitments. What makes work-based learning unique is Executive Masters leading to a postgraduate that the focus is on training and education; it is degree. This option is aimed at working Give your staff the competitive about solving an employee and organisation’s professionals looking to upskill. The immediate needs, as much as appreciating the courses feature two major components edge underlying issues. Students studying on a work- co-designed with the employer; a work- Employees get the competitive edge through based learning route get the opportunity to put based project delivering immediate impact an Executive Masters degree. The courses into practice what they learn in the classroom and a dissertation to advance knowledge in are designed to support organisations in to their existing job, allowing them to make an the organisation. They provide a strategic developing talent with emphasis on career impact on their organisation from the outset, opportunity for companies to develop their development and progression. The courses are rather than after graduating. people and their organisation, by harnessing open to either new or existing employees, while
12 BC August/September 2019 EDINBURGH NAPIER UNIVERSITY
management, and given me practical skills Executive Masters at Edinburgh needed to be able to positively influence delivery of ICT services. Furthermore, Napier completion of the various assessments has As market leaders in work-based learning enhanced my confidence in my own work. I experiences, Edinburgh Napier University is the am certain that I am able to do my job to a perfect partner for your organisation. higher quality than would be possible had I not Edinburgh Napier offers four Executive Masters had this experience.” Tiffany, Senior IT Officer courses that are delivered within the School of studying MSc Strategic ICT Leadership. Computing. An Executive Masters degree lets you gain The MSc Advanced Security & Cybercrime your postgraduate qualification while applying focuses on broadening your knowledge of the key issues related to network and computer security technologies and processes, with a “I feel that I started particular focus on the growing threats posed to benefit from the by cybercrime. If you are working in a data-related role within your organisation, whether in a technical, course from the software or business context and you want to enhance your skills and understanding very first session I of leading-edge data analysis tools and techniques, then the MSc Data Science course attended.” will help you develop your understanding and skills in data science. new skills to your job throughout. Whether you are looking to build new skills in a current role Align your business and technical skills with or prepare for your next move, within 18 to 24 an MSc Strategic ICT Leadership. This course months you can achieve a respected industry- enables IT professionals to address business challenges and gives them the tools and skills the unique delivery model means students relevant Masters degree where the majority of required to make a greater contribution to only need spend a limited time away from the learning and study takes place at work or draws business performance, enabling them to align workplace. on workplace experience. IT projects with business priorities. Supporting staff development and upskilling of talent has many benefits for organisations Balance work and study For significant career advancement, the including: How does it work? A key requirement for the MSc Project & Programme Management Executive Masters courses is that individuals helps you to develop your own and your Improving the business. Students on must be in employment. Students are fully organisation’s project and programme Executive Masters courses apply their supported by the university and their employers management practice with a more learning in the workplace while they are throughout the course so that they can balance comprehensive and rounded approach. studying for their degree, bringing new skills work and study. Support is given from initial and knowledge to benefit your organisation. “The Executive Masters courses are concrete enquiry, through to application as well as with evidence of our commitment to engage with Work-based assessment. As industry things like forming a business case to justify real-word problems outside the classroom, to leaders in work-based learning, Edinburgh the investment. help organisations navigate complexity and Napier’s delivery model is designed to change, and to ensure that the high-level skills minimise time out of the workplace. Challenges and how to overcome development needs of professionals are being met.” Dr Colin Smith, Programme Leader MSc Develop university links. Build strong them Strategic ICT Leadership networks with top academics and embark “The work-based learning delivery model on exciting projects with Edinburgh Napier really suited me, giving me the opportunity to To find out more visit napier.ac.uk/executive University. This could lead to knowledge spend time with like-minded colleagues in the transfer projects and other collaborations. classroom, examine real life challenges in the workplace, all underpinned by self-study. Executive Masters courses Recruit and retain top talent. Keep the best people by providing them a route to show Balancing my studies against full time work MSc in Advanced Security & Cybercrime their worth, while they are engaging with and a very active family wasn’t easy, but the their studies. course structure and the academic support MSc Data Science made this possible. MSc Project & Programme Management Boost your career prospects Completing my Masters experience gave “I feel that I started to benefit from the course me the confidence to successfully apply MSc Strategic ICT Leadership from the very first session I attended. The for a significantly different role within my taught modules are focused on current and organisation, where I’m amazed at how much relevant topics, and I was able to immediately I lean upon skills and techniques picked apply my new knowledge in my work. It has up during my course.” Campbell, Senior IT strengthened my comprehension of key Manager, MSc Strategic ICT Leadership areas, which underpin ICT activities such graduate. as ICT governance, leadership and project
August/September 2019 BC 13 TOP TIPS
TOP TIPS ON: MAKING THE MOST OF EDINBURGH’S FESTIVAL MONTH Name: Rebecca Neish & Richard Ellis Business name: Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce
Edinburgh in August – it’s exciting, vibrant, bustling and, at times, a bit chaotic. We’ve put together this handy list of insider tips to help you make the most of a busy August in the city, avoiding any Festival faux pas along the way.
1. Comfortable footwear Getting around Edinburgh in August is a marathon, not a sprint. Make sure you’re prepared for plenty of walking and queueing by sticking on your comfiest shoes!
2. Avoid the front rows (unless you’re an extrovert) Anyone who’s been to a Festival show knows that performers LOVE a bit of audience participation (or more like, a good bit of picking on the audience). Unless you fancy becoming the star of the show, we recommend picking a seat a few rows back – although maybe steer clear of the back row, as it’ll be obvious you’re trying to hide!
3. Plan your routes In August, the population in the city doubles, and it can take much longer than normal to get around. Planning is key – so make sure you’ve allowed some extra time in your itinerary, and avoid busy city centre roads where possible. Could you take a JustEat Bike? Or is walking your best option? Edinburgh is a hugely walkable city with many cycle paths and parks. You’ll get to enjoy the scenery this way too! Rebecca Neish 4. Be budget savvy & Richard Ellis If you’re anything like us, you’ll want to see as much as you can during the Festival, and with so many amazing performances, shows and experiences on offer, your costs can quickly mount up. Plan ahead and look out for offers in places such as the Half Price Hut. The Assembly are also offering £5 tickets for EH residents. Simply visit any Assembly Box Office with proof of ID and address 6. Get tech ready to claim your tickets (T&Cs will apply, visit their website for more Download the apps for venues, bars & restaurants, transport and information). tickets to be ahead of the game!
5. Be weather prepared 7. Drink sensibly It may be August, but we are in Edinburgh… Carry an umbrella, Alternate your alcoholic drinks with a soft drink, if you plan on sunglasses and a coat at all times! surviving the month…
14 BC August/September 2019 MEMBER NEWS Edinburgh technology firm has ‘opened up city’ to disabled people with Welcome app Edinburgh technology company Neatebox has been nominated for the National Diversity Awards for its app ‘Welcome’ – which helps disabled receive an improved level of customer service in participating venues.
The smartphone system is available all over the guide dog user and I need people to know not “Ever since Welcome has been available I have UK and Ireland but is installed in many of the to distract my dog, people always wanted to pet been able to go to places I couldn’t before, and I city’s major attractions including Jenners and or feed him but they know not to do that now.” don’t feel anxious about going in”. the Scottish Parliament and has ‘opened up the city’ to people with disabilities. The freelance accountant explained that the App creator Gavin Neate said: “Since our app has taken away the anxiety he used to feel launch, we have been inundated with interest Welcome addresses the issue of inadequate when going into venues in Edinburgh. He said: from banks to councils and from large retail customer service for visitors with specific businesses to little coffee shops. We obviously accessibility requirements caused by “Before the app if I was to go into a shop I businesses lack of disability awareness. would walk through the doors and just stand jumped at the opportunity to install Welcome there hoping someone would come and help at Jenners House of Fraser especially as they The free app allows disabled people to request me, often I couldn’t find a member of staff and were renowned for being difficult to get around visits to participating venues, indicating the would just have to turn around and leave. for elderly and disabled people. The results areas where they need customer service staff have been phenomenal with five stars reviews to have awareness of any assistance required. “Jenners was particularly difficult, it’s a maze to for every visit since it’s launch on the UK’s get around and I would never have considered Jonathan Attenborough, 29, is blind and has biggest disability review site, Euan’s guide.” going before the app.” been using the app for the last year. Explaining “The awards are truly great as they raise how it works, he said: “So I open the app on But now, through the use of Welcome, Mr my phone and see the list of venues which are Attenborough can walk into Jenners with awareness of what is possible with modern signed up. I just message them to let them confidence. He said: “When I visited Jenners technology and help spread our message of know when I’m going. with the app someone met me at the door and real inclusion across the globe.” “They confirm that they know I’m on my way escorted me to the cafe where I was having The National Diversity Awards will take place in and it gives them time to work out how to help lunch with a friend. Liverpool on the 20th of September. and what assistance they need. “After I finished the staff in the cafe phoned “They also get information about what my down and the member of staff came and got disability is and what assistance I need. I am a me and took me down again.
August/September 2019 BC 15 BC ADVERTORIAL
Newtyne: The Next Generation of Data Expertise
Bringing together the best new talent in data with business.
Employing high-performing permanent staff and are able to respond to the wide and As part of the screening process, Newtyne can be a long and daunting process. Many varying demands of businesses, maintaining provides industry standard PES (pre- employers face choosing between expensive, a clear understanding of data and analysis employment screening), which includes acknowledged industry experts, and which can then be nurtured and developed to the likes of credit, Disclosure Scotland candidates who are less technically proficient suit each individual business’s requirements. and reference checks. We also provide who often require costly training in order to fit an assessment day and panel interview The programme involves sourcing individuals their needs. with reviews. Once training is complete, and delivering a robust and well-structured individuals are deployed into the host The Newtyne Business Intelligence and Data onboarding process, followed by a fully business for a fixed term, typically for one Analytics Academy is designed specifically to comprehensive learning programme. year. At the end of the engagement, the host deal with these challenges. At the end of the placement, the host business has a free, no obligation option to The Academy was established in 2012 and business has the choice of: transfer the Newtyne Academy graduate to is an integrated consultancy and training their permanent headcount. programme designed to provide businesses Transferring their Academy graduate to Newtyne’s Academy with a skilled pool of accredited resource the business permanently. Account Manager, Hayley immediately able to add value. Initially, the Extending the placement. Skipworth said: “Since its Academy offered learning in the language inception, Newtyne has of SAS, but over the years has developed Ceasing the placement. successfully placed close to respond to the wider demands of the The Academy offers continuous learning ever-changing technology landscape. The to 100 graduates in a and improvement for individuals Academy now includes other technologies range of sectors, including throughout their 52-week placement, such as Python, R and SQL which dominate telecoms, banking, life assurance, as well as with weekly and quarterly reviews, the Data Science community. teams and departments such as fraud, credit evening learning sessions and other risk and actuarial services. Individuals are given the opportunity to learn opportunities to continually upskill. important life-long transferable skills through “We also work with Scotland’s top universities The Newtyne Academy approach provides our industry leading ‘Business Fundamentals’ to source our candidates, taking on those businesses with the confidence and security course. This is a blended learning solution with degrees in science, philosophy, of obtaining employees with the right skills delivering an interactive programme engineering, mathematics, statistics – and whilst simultaneously being able to plan covering skills such as time management, even music technology. If you are interested communication, and assertiveness, plus for the future. At Newtyne, we mitigate any in finding out more about how the Newtyne good email and meetings protocols. This is risks and take away the pain associated Academy could support your business, in addition to usual compliance training in with finding skilled resources of the calibre contact us on [email protected].” required. Display Screen Equipment, Office Health & While some learning programmes offer Safety and GDPR. Results: Graduates of the Newtyne training with no guarantee of a role upon Simon Wallis, Head of Academy are immediately productive completion, or fail to remunerate those taking People and Development resources, adding value to a team. part, the Newtyne Academy ensures both. Being selected for the academy provides a at Newtyne said: “It is well Skills: Graduates are fully trained and unique opportunity for numerate data savvy reported that increased sufficiently skilled to sit SAS Certified grads to kickstart their career in Business use of Machine Learning Base Programmer accreditation. For Intelligence and Data Analytics. and Artificial Intelligence those requiring a more statistically (AI) is automating business minded Data Scientist we cover the In short, the Newtyne Academy aims to processes around the world, and it is even learning required for the SAS Statistical deliver technically competent, emotionally estimated that AI could take over a third of Business Analyst: Modelling and intelligent ‘business-ready’ graduates British jobs by 2030. However, at Newtyne we Regression certification too. who can start adding to an organisation’s pride ourselves in being ‘a people business’, capability immediately. despite working within the tech industry. Contribution: Graduates are able to Creative thinking, relationship building as provide an accelerated contribution to www.newtyne.com well as key and enduring soft skills are still the business throughout their year of integral to an organisation’s success.” placement. Through the Academy programme, Planning: This also enables flexibility in participants become ‘technology-enabled’, managing resources.
16 BC August/September 2019 BC ADVERTORIAL Customer Engagement: Levelling up on the relationship Whether it’s on social media, marketing emails, review sites, face-to-face at conventions or expos, or even just on the phone, it can be difficult to make a meaningful connection with your customers.
I’m not talking about the relationship building. Getting to know what an individual or a company wants from your company and building ties through that is one thing. It’s important, don’t get me wrong, my last article focused entirely on how important it is. But it isn’t the same as customer engagement. When I say customer engagement, what I mean is having an open dialogue between your business and your customers. A conversation that isn’t about the purchasing of goods or services, but rather about what they think or how they feel about your products and customer service. In my experience, there are three levels or stages to the ways people engage with a company. Not everyone goes through all of them (or even in this order), though, so it is important to not think of yourself or your company as failing if all of your customers aren’t micro-influencers within a year of the first purchase. it isn’t much of a jump before they tell you what your product or it could be about your Engagement Level 1: Feedback they would do differently. customer service or even your social media presence. You just never know, every company When you first start down the road of Some of it may be outside of your product experiences it differently. encouraging customer engagement, the first roadmap or even outside the realms of rung on the ladder is establishing the best way possibility, but it’s all good engagement. After For us, reaching this level often includes us to gather feedback. all, it shows that they’re thinking about your asking those customers to beta test something product and how they could better integrate it for us. It could be a new mobile app or a new Some of the feedback will be easy to track and into their lives. method of communication make decisions off, like survey results. This will (no really—watch this space for that one). be hard numbers: 5 stars for this, 2 stars for Handling these suggestions is tricky, in fact that, etc. there are dozens of online tools designed to We ask them to test because we know that help you do just that! we’ll get honest feedback, considered insights You may also get increases or decreases and suggestions, along with the ability to pick in customer support calls, which could At this level of engagement, the important up the phone and generally chat about the new mean a lot of things from better use of your thing is to make it clear that you welcome their development. Where is it going, where did it Knowledgebase to general dissatisfaction with suggestions and to feedback to them when you come from, what is the potential impact. a new product. Again, hard numbers that you are implementing them. can collate and analyse. The most important thing about this level of engagement is that you as the business owner Other information, however, will be slipperier. Engagement Level 3: Open recognise the contribution your customers are It will be things like “I talked to so-and-so and Dialogue making. she’s not happy with her latest delivery” or It’s important to note that you’re unlikely to “That guy just loves the new widget”. Useful achieve full customer engagement with each information, but getting the numbers on it is and every one of your customers. Some will get Graham Anderson, is the CEO and founder of OpenCRM, trickier (but not impossible). to the Feedback stage and never move beyond one of the UK’s leading it, others won’t even get that far. customer relationship Engagement Level 2: With some, however, you’ll move through management systems. Suggestions Feedback and Suggestions, passing into Once you get your customers talking to you a relationship that includes full and open and telling you what they think of your product, dialogue. This engagement might be about
August/September 2019 BC 17 CORPORATE VIEW
Global Climate Change - Why green energy certificates don’t work
With climate change arguably higher on the agenda than ever, businesses are striving to show their green credentials.
greener than they really are. An example is the carbon emissions produced during the the use of green energy certificates or tariffs, commute to work. which some companies use to claim the Companies could also consider replacing electricity they consume is from renewable some business trips with video conferencing sources and has zero emissions. Research - as video conferencing technology becomes carried out by the University of Edinburgh increasingly sophisticated and accessible, Business School’s Centre for Business business travel is becoming less imperative. and Climate Change shows that buying a Ask yourself, is that client visit to London certificate doesn’t increase the amount of really necessary, or can the meeting be wind power or solar power that is generated. conducted by Skype? And the money spent on certificates or green tariffs could be spent on actions that do Weaving some of these green initiatives into actually reduce emissions. the culture of your business will go a long way in ensuring the carbon footprint of Another potential pitfall to avoid is the company is reduced and it reaps undermining the economic sustainability of the multiple rewards of operating an the business by pursuing expensive emission eco-conscious business. reductions. Instead, companies both big By Dr Matthew Brander and small should concentrate on reducing If you would like to find out more Senior Lecturer in Carbon Accounting, their carbon footprint through a number about the Business School’s University of Edinburgh Business School of activities, many of which actually save activities in the climate them money. While each individual action change area contact Aidan The United Nations describes climate change may appear to have a small impact, the Hetherington on as “one of the major challenges of our time.” total impact can be significant. Switching [email protected] The impacts of climate change are, it says, to LED Lighting for example can reduce “global in scope and unprecedented in scale.” your office’s electricity usage by a factor In 2015 the Paris Agreement was adopted by of 15 compared to halogen lighting. consensus, and 181 countries are now party Other ways of reducing electricity to it. The Agreement establishes the goal of consumption in the workplace include keeping the temperature rise this century switching off appliances at the end of to below 2˚C, with the aspiration of limiting the day, enabling power save mode warming below 1.5˚C. and unplugging phone chargers. You could also consider swapping your The Paris Agreement also recognises that PC for a laptop - laptops can use a national governments cannot achieve these staggering 80 percent less power goals alone, and that ‘non-state actors’ (i.e. than desktop computers. businesses, charities, public bodies, and local government) will need to step-up and play With huge advances in their part. telecommunications and the introduction of cloud-based It is in this mood, of widespread acceptance technology, working from home that climate change is real (and that human or operating activities are the main cause) that businesses remotely is are looking to not only reduce their carbon efficient and emissions, but to be seen to have rock solid productive. green credentials. One of the biggest However, there are a number of potential gains of working pitfalls that businesses need to avoid. One from home is that a is greenwash, where companies claim to be business eliminates
18 BC August/September 2019 BC ADVERTORIAL The A to Z of investing: From Alternatives to ZDPs Amanda Forsyth from Murray Asset Management starts a series demystifying some stock market jargon
… is for … is for Alternatives … is for Beta Candlestick
We’re not talking about the decision to keep This is Beta as compared to Alpha. The market Also Chart. In fact, Candlestick Chart. More your funds in krugerrands under the bed, sink really loves Beta. How do we know? Because useful than you’d think, to an investor; a share the lot into a wine cellar or spend the kids’ of the rapid growth that’s been seen in tracker price can, as we know, go down as well as up inheritance rather than invest it – though all funds. and you may not get back the amount invested. these strategies have their fans. These are the investment products that Draw a line connecting the daily moves on If you or your client are already committed attempt to mirror, as closely and efficiently as most larger company shares and there will be to building a portfolio of listed investments, possible, a particular index; and because there’s little short-term rhyme or reason. This is where though, the Alternatives, or ‘Alts’ in your no active decision making involved once you’ve the Candlestick Chart can be helpful. portfolio will be investments that try to selected your index to track, the charges on By showing, in the contrast between the behave in a way that’s uncorrelated to equity these funds tend to be much lower than those broader bar and the narrower line of the shares – as, for example, infrastructure or for the actively managed funds. candle’s ‘wick’, the way in which the share price hedge funds. Active management tries to deliver Alpha, the moved during the day, a wealth of information With so much volatility in conventional important value added by the genius in the ivory can be derived about the way sentiment markets recently, Alts have enjoyed renewed tower who’s selecting individual investments; towards the investment shifted during the interest. Beta is what the index delivers all by itself. trading period.
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August/September 2019 BC 19 NEW MEMBERS
WELCOME TO OUR NEW MEMBERS
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20 BC August/September 2019 NEW MEMBERS
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August/September 2019 BC 21 BC ADVERTORIAL
Connecting Scotland to the world Heathrow plays a crucial role in connecting Scotland to the world. As the UK’s largest port and only hub airport, we pool demand for global connections, enabling more flights to more destinations that other airports can’t support. But Heathrow is full. Without expansion, the UK risks losing its competitive edge and ability to link businesses, exports and people across Scotland to global growth.
Connecting Scotland to the world At Heathrow, we are committed to helping every part of the country strengthen their links to new and expanding markets. Expansion would double cargo capacity at the airport and allow Scottish businesses to connect up to 40 new long-haul destinations. This would provide new trading opportunities in addition to new supply chain opportunities as we build Britain’s new runway. It’s why expansion at Heathrow is backed by the Scottish Chamber of Commerce and more than thirty local Chambers. We will ensure that Scottish businesses continue to be heard as our plans develop, updating the Chambers at an annual event until the proposed new runway is operational. largest suppliers – including from Heathrow’s based on strong local support, a thriving local With direct routes to Aberdeen, Edinburgh, own supply chain. Glasgow and Inverness, Heathrow is the supply chain, convenient connectivity links, and a skilled local workforce. The final choice will gateway for visitors to Scotland from every Whilst ensuring we are delivering for corner of the globe. Competition and rotations businesses in Scotland and the rest of the be announced early next year. on all four routes are already growing, offering country, we are also clear that we will meet our greater choice to passengers. To help boost responsibilities to the environment: our airport Scotland’s place in the world tourism around the UK, we also created a infrastructure will be carbon neutral by 2020, Every day, Heathrow supports Scotland’s themed gateroom for Scotland in Terminal zero carbon by 2050, and any growth that place as a strong trading nation. We are in a 3 last year to encourage all who passed it to comes with expansion will be carbon neutral. unique position to do this as the UK’s only hub visit some of the nation’s most spectacular Our Logistics Hubs are a great example of airport – and with expansion, Heathrow would destinations. how this will work: these innovative off-site improve Scotland’s connections to markets construction sites will help us build the new everywhere. It would boost Scottish business runway sustainably while giving businesses Spreading the benefits of and tourism, support economic growth, and across the UK an opportunity to work with us. expansion create new jobs across the nation. Moreover, Expansion offers a world of opportunity for One of the four UK-wide Hubs will be located our plans would be delivered – including the British business, including Scottish SMEs. in Scotland – contributing to the thousands of growth in flights – in a way that is carbon As part of this, we will be hosting one of our local jobs that would be created throughout neutral and compatible with UK climate Business Summits in Edinburgh in October the expansion project. Following a nationwide targets. this year. Organised in conjunction with tour in 2018, we announced a shortlist of four Scottish business groups and the Scottish potential sites to host Scotland’s Logistics Hub: We look forward to working with Scotland’s Government, the event is an opportunity for Glasgow Prestwick Airport; Babcock Marine businesses to make sure that expansion local businesses to cement relationships and in Rosyth; Forth Ports; and Peter D Stirling in continues to support you and your create connections with some of the UK’s Mossend. All shortlisted sites were chosen communities.
The Heathrow Business Summit SCOTLAND is one of the 10 Regional Business Summits during 2019. Please join us at BT Murrayfield Stadium on Thursday 10th October.
You can find out more and register to attend on www.heathrowbusinesssummit.co.uk
22 BC August/September 2019 RACE TO ZERO
EXPANDING HEATHROW IS HELPING SCOTLAND BOOST
TOMATIN DISTILLERY, ONE OF THE MANY BUSINESSES ACROSS THE UK THAT SUPPORT HEATHROW EXPANSION
With connections to Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness, Heathrow is the gateway to global markets for Scottish exports – like whisky from the Tomatin Distillery. Expansion would double our cargo capacity and create new domestic and international trading routes, helping businesses in Scotland boost their exports.
Find out more about the opportunities Heathrow is creating for Scotland’s businesses at our Business Summit in Edinburgh on 10th October: www.heathrowbusinesssummit.co.uk
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON EXPANSION AND THE FACTS IN THIS ADVERT VISIT: www.heathrow.com/exportsJune/July 2019 BC 23
10_07_19_tomatin_a4.indd 1 10/07/2019 16:50 SPECIAL REPORT: INTERNATIONAL The Fringe - More than an international arts festival In 1947, eight performing companies arrived uninvited to stage their shows on the ‘fringe’ of the inaugural Edinburgh International Festival. And so began the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
Over 70 years later, in 2019, the Fringe is Out scheme, which provides Fringe vouchers hosting 3,841 shows from a record-breaking and Lothian bus tickets to community groups 63 countries, making it a truly international and charities across the city. 31 community celebration of arts and culture. Yet it is the work groups and charities are participating this that the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society is year, including Sikh Sanjog, Pilmeny Youth, doing with communities closer to home that it Lothian Autistic Society, Contact the Elderly, hopes will have the most important impact on SCOREscotland, Dads Rock and Capability the city. Scotland. “In the same way we encourage everyone “At the heart of the Fringe is the idea that with a story to tell to come and share it at the everyone is welcome and that the arts are Fringe, we are dedicated to supporting access for the many not the few. Fringe Days Out for everyone to engage with the Fringe and is a long-term commitment by the Fringe see these shows,” explains Shona McCarthy, Society to reach communities in Edinburgh Chief Executive of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe who might not have experienced the Fringe Shona McCarthy 1-credit JSR agency Society. “We are expanding and deepening before and work with them to ensure it is easy training to help them create short videos about our work with communities and educational to attend,” explains Shona. “Since the scheme their experience of the festival. establishments across Edinburgh through our began in 2017, over 5,500 people have been Community Engagement programme and our given the opportunity to use Fringe Days Out “Greater inclusion and participation for young Learning programme, constantly striving to vouchers, a significant proportion of whom people is important to us which is where our break down barriers to participation.” have never experienced the Fringe before. We Learning programme comes in.” says Shona. are committed to continuing this work with our “We are working with eight schools across To support their programmes, the Fringe partner organisations for at least the next four Edinburgh, from nursery to high school level Society has employed a full time Community years, aiming to double the value of the scheme and an additional support needs school, to pilot Engagement Officer and a full time Learning from £50,000 in 2018 to £100,000 in 2022.” resources to help them come to the Fringe. Officer, both permanent and funded through This includes a largescale project, funded by the PLACE Programme, a partnership between As part of the Community Engagement a private donation, helping an estimated 500 the Scottish Government – through Creative programme, the Fringe Society held a fun day in pupils from Gracemount High School and Scotland – the City of Edinburgh Council and July at the Citadel Youth Centre in Leith, giving Tynecastle High School visit the Fringe this Festivals Edinburgh. a taster of the Fringe with circus workshops, year.” magic and a street show for children and their A key part of the Fringe Society’s Community families. The Fringe Society is also running “963 Scottish shows are performing at the Engagement programme to connect the festival a digital project throughout August with four Fringe in 2019, with 744 of these originating to the people of Edinburgh is the Fringe Days young people from LGBT Youth receiving digital from Edinburgh,” continues Shona. “The work
24 BC August/September 2019 SPECIAL REPORT: INTERNATIONAL
Shona McCarthy 1-credit JSR agency and talents of people living in Edinburgh are the same. Along with meeting up and watching West Parliament Square Stage every Saturday being showcased here and we want children shows, members of the club get to participate in of the Fringe.” and young people in the city to have the chance discussion sessions with artistic directors and Sensory backpacks for children and adults on to experience them. I am also thrilled that performers from the companies.” the autism spectrum were a particularly well- this year performing slots on the High Street In addition to working directly with communities received addition in 2018. This year the Fringe have been given to Scottish schools as part of and schools, the Fringe Society is working to Society has increased the availability of sensory the Virgin Money Street Events programme, meet the access needs of a range of festival backpacks to 80, and these are available to pick including five schools from Edinburgh, giving goers from Edinburgh and beyond. “We held a up at more venues across the city. young people the chance to experience the Fringe Disabled Access Day on 13th July in our Fringe as performers.” Shona concludes: “Community engagement, Fringe shop for locals to come along and find learning and access are essential parts of what Another local project is Teachers’ Theatre Club, out more about all the services available,” says we do. The Fringe currently provides over £144 in partnership with Imaginate, which brings Shona. “For example, customers with access million annually for Edinburgh, and this will teachers to shows at the Imaginate Festival requirements can use the Neatebox Welcome continue to grow year on year. In addition to the and the Fringe. Shona explains: “The Teachers’ app to book to see the Access Bookings team, economic benefits, we want everyone across Theatre Club aims to encourage Edinburgh’s or to request assistance when visiting the street the city to have the opportunity to be part of the teachers to see more live performance, become events on the High Street. Our street events Fringe and feel it is a festival for them and their more confident in discussing this with their offering includes accessible stages and viewing communities.” students and in turn, inspire their classes to do areas, and there is BSL interpretation on the
August/September 2019 BC 25 SPECIAL REPORT: INTERNATIONAL Edinburgh on the global stage Edinburgh has long been an outward facing and internationally focused city – home of festivals, the Scottish Parliament, a burgeoning tourism sector, and second to London in international visitors, it is a small city with a loud voice and unique appeal.
To those living here, it’s easy to understand its almost 20% year on year. Some of this can the Data Capital of Europe, Edinburgh’s aims appeal; the landscape’s rugged natural beauty is be attributed to Britain’s overall increased are international, and the city remains an complemented by the contrasting architecture attraction as a destination following the attractive destination for foreign students – in of the Old and New Towns. While at one time weakening of the pound, but greater global 2017 30.9% of Edinburgh’s student population the city consisted of only the organic streets awareness of Edinburgh as a destination in were from outside the UK, the highest and narrow closes of the Old Town, today its recent years should not be ignored. Marketing proportion of non-UK students of any British contrast with the structured New Town is part Edinburgh has been behind a number of city. of the city centre’s internationally recognised internationally-focused campaigns such as value as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a #UncoverEdinburgh, which reached young With the combined efforts of Convention status shared with sites like the Great Wall of people throughout Europe in partnership with Edinburgh (the city’s conventions bureau) China and Athenian Acropolis. Youth Travel Edinburgh, and 20 Reasons to VisitScotland, the Scottish Government, Study in Edinburgh, targeting international Scottish Enterprise and the EICC, the city The unique mixture of heritage, landscape, an postgraduate students and funded by the city’s secured secured 115 business events over the internationally-renowned arts festivals, world- four universities. 2018/19 financial year, including TED Summit class universities, businesses and the city’s 2019 and the World One Health Congress, status as capital of and gateway to Scotland The city’s official social media channels under highlighting Edinburgh’s continued relevance are all elements that contributed to 4.6 million the This is Edinburgh brand are followed by on the international stage. Indeed, only last year visits to the city in 2017, a 9.5% increase year more than 450,000 people in the UK and abroad Edinburgh celebrated moving up five places to on year. while the city’s Chinese market social media 27th in the ICCA Country and City Rankings for channels - WeChat and Weibo - are followed 2018. Of these, more than 2 million were from by more than 80,000, all used as key resources international markets – itself a rise of for visit-planning by international visitors. More Conference wins have recovered since the than 10% of web traffic to edinburgh.org - the Brexit referendum, but growth in the number official guide to the city - came from the USA, of new wins has been flat throughout the UK. with Germany and Canada and India amongst Edinburgh is meeting the challenge head on the countries generating the most interest in with Make It Edinburgh, a campaign reassuring Edinburgh over 2018. event planners that Edinburgh remains a viable and worthwhile destination in the face of Several big-budget film productions and TV political uncertainty. series have put the city on screens across the planet, from Outlander to Avengers: Infinity War Proactivity in meeting such challenges coupled and T2 Trainspotting. Film Edinburgh, the city’s with a long established and well-deserved film office, promotes the city to film makers, reputation in business, arts, sciences and acting as point of contact to assist in finding academia supports increasing connectivity with locations, supporting the logistics involved in the rest of the world - which will itself generate film production and helping businesses with even further growth. Continued expansion of product development off the back of new Edinburgh Airport with June’s opening of a releases. £75 million second terminal cements the city’s status as the gateway to Scotland, equipping Edinburgh’s international appeal and status it to meet expected growth to more than 20 extend beyond film and festivals of course; million passengers. the city is a renowned seat of innovation and intellectual endeavour. With four universities, 37 new direct air routes established since the the Scottish capital is a world leader and beginning of 2018 into Edinburgh from cities centre of excellence for Finance, Renewables, across the planet demonstrate an international Technology, Food & Drink, Creative Industries vote of confidence in our city’s credentials as a and Life Sciences. With ambitions to become place to visit and do business with.
26 BC August/September 2019 SPECIAL REPORT: INTERNATIONAL
One of the most significant of these is the route Wows using Edinburgh’s cultural strengths as “The unique mixture established between Beijing and Edinburgh, a draw during the quieter shoulder months, and Scotland’s first (and currently only) direct a campaign tying in with VisitScotland’s Year of heritage, landscape, link from China. The Edinburgh-China Airlink, of Coasts and Waters 2020 to help disperse set up and funded by Marketing Edinburgh, visitors to areas such as South Queensferry, an internationally- Edinburgh Airport and City of Edinburgh Council Leith and Portobello, in an effort to ease with China Ready is part of the Edinburgh city centre congestion. A planned, strategic renowned arts China Ready project, which has equipped approach, such as that of the new Edinburgh festivals, world-class local businesses with the resources to take 2030 Tourism Strategy is important to ensure advantage of new opportunities and to serve a solution is found that balances the needs of universities, businesses increasing numbers of Chinese visitors. Such visitors, residents and businesses. forward-thinking initiatives are vital if Edinburgh Edinburgh is in a privileged position – it enjoys is to compete in an ever-changing global and the city’s status the advantages of being a capital city and seat landscape, and the approach’s success thus of government whilst also boasting the beauty far means it could be easily applied to other key as capital of and of both its architecture and natural landscape. growth areas, such as India, in future. It hosts the world’s largest celebration of the gateway to Scotland If Edinburgh is to remain competitive and arts and is world-famous for its heritage and are all elements that attractive internationally, the city cannot rest history. These alone would be enough to attract on its laurels. Opinions vary on how best to visitors from overseas, but it is also Edinburgh’s contributed to 4.6 deal with the inevitable impact large visitor expertise and authority in the sciences, creative numbers have on the city, and sustainable industries, finance and academia that make it a million visits to the city tourism is increasingly important to travellers, truly world-class and international destination. with discourse focused on how to minimise Balancing the competing challenges – and in 2017, a 9.5% increase ‘overtourism’. Marketing Edinburgh is taking reaping the rewards – that come from being a steps to facilitate a more even spread of city people love to visit and call home is a task year on year.” visitors – with a campaign entitled Edinburgh our city is more than equipped to take on.
August/September 2019 BC 27 BC ADVERTORIAL
Transporting goods on a Tern GSD with boxes and panniers Race to Zero Why Consider an Electric Cargo Bike for your next Business Vehicle
What is an Electric Cargo Bike? make riding up hills and negotiating narrow (and bumpy!) streets easy. A new initiative which will Like riding a traditional bike, an electric cargo bike still needs pedalled. However, the rider isn’t see businesses on Leith utilising them while the left to struggle and pedal the load on their own. tram works take place will really put this theory The electric assist gives the rider extra power to the test! (pedal assistance of up to 300%) for carrying Riding a Packster 80 to make deliveries Edinburgh in particular is in a great place to heavy loads (up to 200kg or 440lbs) uphill while not needing to over-exert themselves. utilise electric cargo bikes. There are many traffic free routes – take a look at the National Funding an Electric Cargo Bike Electric Cargo Bikes in Edinburgh Cycle Network to see just how much of Starting at £4,000, electric cargo bikes are a Edinburgh you can negotiate without going near While it was once seen as a niche delivery significantly lower investment than purchasing method, electric cargo bikes are now a truly a road. Couple that with not needing to find a a traditional delivery vehicle. Plus, with added viable transport option for many businesses. parking space, electric cargo bikes can easily incentives such as loans from The Energy Even the hills and cobbles of Edinburgh are become a quicker, cheaper and safer option Saving Trust and grants from Spokes they no match for the advancing technology which compared to a traditional vehicle. become even more affordable.
28 BC August/September 2019 RACE TO ZERO
Packster 60 Touring fitted with box
Tern GSD fitted with boxes on front and rear Tern GSD stored vertically
The running costs over a year are notably lower A Cargo Bike to Suit your too. There is no vehicle excise duty to pay, no “Edinburgh in parking charges and the cost of recharging is Business considerably less than fuel. We have a range of electric cargo bikes options. particular is in Tern GSD Sustainability and Customer a great place to Growth This e-cargo bike is the same length as a standard bike but can carry up to 200kg! As it utilise electric How many of your customers (or potential can be stored up on its end, it’s a great option customers) care about the environment? for businesses tight on space. A recent study by Unilever found a third of cargo bikes.” consumers are now choosing to buy from Riese & Muller For more information or to book a demo, brands they believe are doing social or contact us: environmental good. That’s a big opportunity Perhaps looking more like what you would expect when imagining an electric cargo bike, for businesses who want to improve their Edinburgh Bruntsfield: these electric cargo bikes come in a range of environmental impact and improve air quality 8 Alvanley Terrace, EH9 1DU while also giving customers an additional reason different models with varying cargo holding to do business with them and not a competitor. capabilities. Edinburgh Canonmills: 30 Rodney Street, EH7 4EA What’s more, it’s not a sustainable approach Choosing an Electric Cargo www.edinburghbicycle.com that’s hard for your customers to understand - Bike customers will see it wherever you go. Brand it 0345 257 0808 up with company logos and contact details and Nothing beats actually seeing an electric cargo it becomes a free advertising platform in the bike in the flesh or taking one out for a one or locations where your customers (or potential two day demo hire so you can see how it would customers) are found. work for your business.
August/September 2019 BC 29 RACE TO ZERO
A truly national endeavour Achieving net zero carbon emissions has been described by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon as ‘a truly national endeavour’.
After declaring a “climate emergency” at the SNP conference earlier this year, the First Minister addressed the World Forum on Climate Justice: “Becoming a net zero nation, as we intend to do, will require changes to virtually every aspect of everyday life. Decarbonisation will change how we travel, how we keep our homes and our workplaces warm, how we design our towns and cities in the future. We will have to move very rapidly from a throwaway culture to a genuinely circular economy. We will need to develop and apply new technologies, while also planting millions of trees and restoring peatlands. “All of this has to be a truly national endeavour…”i
World-leading targets Scotland is leading the field in responding to the climate emergency. A Bill is currently making its way through the Scottish Parliament and City Mobility Plan, creating an inclusive, European funding to amend the Climate Change (Scotland) Act accessible city in which priority is given to Just as we’re about to go to print, it’s 2009 to make provision for setting targets for those travelling on foot, by bicycle or on public announced that a third round of the European the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. transport. Stage 2 completed on 25 June 2019, with Regional Development Fund (ERDF) Low Stage 3, at which MSPs have their final Cllr Adam McVey, City of Edinburgh Council Carbon Travel and Transport Challenge Fund is opportunity to propose amendments, to follow leader, commented in a recent interview that open and available for applications. in due course. meeting the emission targets: “requires all of Public, community and third sector us to look at our lives and take action to reduce organisations can apply for a portion of the Once passed, the Bill will set legally binding carbon emissions. It will require all of us to look £13.25 million of available ERDF and Scottish targets which are the most ambitious in the at how much we recycle, how we travel around Government support to help deliver innovative world for the years covered, aiming for net the Capital and how we heat our homes and active travel and low carbon transport hubs, zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2045 at the offices. We will all need to be responsible for delivered through the Energy Saving Trust. latest with Scotland becoming carbon neutral our own emissions…”ii by 2040. Emission reduction targets will also be Perhaps you know of a worthy recipient? set of 70% by 2030 and 90% by 2040, keeping While match funding is required, applications Scotland on track for meeting the 2045 net zero Your business can cover 70% or 80% of the total project costs carbon emission target. What can we as business people do to help? depending on location. The fund is now open If you’re not sure where to start, the Energy with a deadline for applications of 25 October Edinburgh – a step ahead Saving Trust can be a good port of call to 2019, with assessments to be completed by Already Edinburgh is making great strides in access free expert advice, support and Spring 2020. More information and advice can helping Scotland achieve these targets and potentially funding too. Assisting businesses be found at: towards becoming the UK’s first “net zero” in Scotland with saving energy, lowering their city. The City of Edinburgh Council has set an costs and reducing carbon emissions – which www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/ ambitious target of becoming a net zero carbon is good for the environment and good for the lcttchallengefund city by 2030. businesses too. Advice is available on energy i: Read the First Minister’s full speech at: https://www.gov.scot/ efficiency, sustainable business transport publications/fm-world-forum-climate-justice/ Plans for a Low Emission Zone (LEZ) have (whether it relates to travel choices or a ii: Edinburgh Evening News, Monday 27 May 2019: https://www. been published, including the proposed business’s fleet), employee engagement and edinburghnews.scotsman.com/news/opinion/edinburgh-is- boundaries of the scheme, the types of vehicles racing-against-glasgow-to-be-uk-s-first-zero-carbon-city-adam- more. mcvey-1-4934484 to be included, as well as the phasing in arrangements. Visit the website of the Energy Saving Trust for more information: Closely allied to the establishment of a LEZ are the plans for the City Centre Transformation www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/scotland
30 BC August/September 2019 BC ADVERTORIAL Family firm powering ahead in the renewable energy sector Moray Robertson Electrical Services are proud to be at the forefront of the renewable energy sector with a real focus on the need for energy resilience within business.
Managing Director Moray Robertson is ahead Moray, who has 30+ years’ experience in the of the curve when it comes to ensuring firms energy industry, says: “We will look at your are well equipped for a sustainable future premises and work out what you can do and in the energy market and he can help your what you can save. business now. “It may be that we introduce a combination of Moray and his team advise on powering renewables such as fixing solar panels on the businesses through renewable energy – roof, installing a wind turbine on the premises making them self-sufficient and ready to and establishing electrical charging points for overcome volatile energy prices and the employees’ cars and work vehicles.” possibility of future power supply interruptions. And the firm provides a full-service package A move to renewable energy can also save from audit to provision and installation plus money and help the environment by cutting ongoing maintenance. carbon emissions. MRES has already successfully provided this Reducing environmental impact also helps service for a processing and packaging client firms meet corporate social responsibility whose electrical energy consumption covered targets while generating electricity through a Refrigeration Plant, packaging machinery and renewables could lead to extra revenue if there general power loads. is surplus to sell back to the National Grid. The first phase saw MRES carry out a power Moray says: “There are so many reasons to quality audit on the existing power supply to get ahead now when it comes to securing help improve overall energy efficiency and your power sources and using renewables to identify any problems. generate electricity. Meanwhile, a lighting installation audit checked “There is no doubt electricity is going to existing lighting power consumption. become more expensive in the future so it’s After collecting the data, the team came up important to become as self-sufficient and keen to hear from forward-thinking firms who with a proposal on the energy cost reductions resilient as possible now. we can help in a similar way.” and potential savings. “It’s also about being environmentally MRES are based in Stirling with a team of They found inefficient running costs in the conscious and reducing your carbon footprint engineers working across the UK and Ireland. current lighting installation system and - using renewables will help ensure you have a introduced a new LED lighting scheme. This led The firm, founded by Moray and Cherene good environmental policy in place.” to a 50% energy reduction on the lighting side Robertson in 2012, specialises in all types MRES are a one-stop shop when it comes to plus improved light output over the site. of electrical work for a range of domestic, renewables and the team start by carrying out commercial and industrial clients and the MRES also installed power factor correction an electrical energy audit so they can find the team are experts in fault-finding, repairs and measures to reduce power wastage in the most cost-effective solutions for every firm. maintenance. processing and packaging plant which reduced They provide honest and reliable advice on the power – and therefore costs - needed to Later this year MRES will move to newly how to self-generate and store electricity and run the equipment. constructed, environmentally friendly premises thereby reduce dependence on the Grid. in Stirling with a training centre for apprentices. The third phase of the operation will see This could be through the installation of solar the client benefit from the introduction of For more details about MRES, panels and/ or wind turbines plus setting up renewable power - reducing their need to call 01786 448562 or visit renewable battery storage systems. import power from the Grid and cutting their www.mresstirling.co.uk carbon footprint. The firm also offers an installation service for electric vehicle (EV) charging points at This includes installation of a 100KW Solar homes and commercial premises and is on PV system on the roof drastically reducing the Government’s Office for Low Emission the need for imported power particularly in Vehicles’ (OLEV) list of authorised installers. the hotter, summer months when the onsite refrigeration unit works harder. The OLEV works to support the EV market and offers grant funding for home and workplace Moray added: “We have a great deal of charging schemes. experience in the renewables sector and are
August/September 2019 BC 31 RACE TO ZERO
Travelknowhow Scotland is on hand to offer Scottish businesses the support and guidance they need in the Race to Zero
Travelknowhow Scotland is a unique, government funded initiative that is leading the way in supporting businesses to encourage changes in workplace travel behaviour.
Travelknowhow Scotland www. on active and sustainable travel. It provides travelknowhowscotland.co.uk is an quick and easy advice ensuring we can deliver online resource which offers organisations the best sustainable options to our people. across Scotland FREE, easy access to a It is a great resource which provides us with wide variety of travel planning solutions to effective support in promoting more active and develop and implement workplace Travel sustainable travel.” Plans and to engage with employees in order to start changing travel behaviour within As part of its commitment to supporting organisations. Covering travel by both staff and Scottish Businesses in the “ Race to Zero”, visitors the website offers: August also sees the launch of an innovative new pilot project – RIGHT TRACK with access to travel planning information and Travelknowhow . links to local resources; specialist travel planning advice; specialist marketing advice to aid employee engagement; practical hints and tips; and adaptable downloadable templates aimed at providing cost effective internal and external communications. Funded and supported by Scotland’s 7 Regional Transport Partnerships and Transport Scotland, Travelknowhow Scotland supports and contributes directly to the Scottish RIGHT TRACK is an easy to use mobile app that government’s 2045 net-zero target. Encouraging will help employees to understand the travel more active and sustainable travel within Scottish workplaces is going to play a crucial options that are available to them, will show role in the reduction of emissions and with them the potential benefits to be gained and the introduction of measures such as the Low connect them with colleagues to allow them Emission Zones and proposals to introduce to support and encourage each other to make a workplace parking levy, Travelknowhow changes in travel behaviour. Scotland is on hand to offer Scottish employers RIGHT TRACK offers participating organisations practical advice and guidance to allow them to a multi – faceted approach, driven by robust support and encouraging their employees to data capture, that allows for engagement start changing their travel behaviour. with employees through an ongoing, two-way With its unique web-based toolkit structure communication channel that is much more Travelknowhow Scotland offers comprehensive personalised to them and their circumstances. guidance, resources and expert support on This 6-month pilot project, is an exciting all aspects of Travel Plan implementation collaboration between Ember Technology and in a format that is highly accessible for any Travelknowhow Scotland and is funded by organisation looking to develop and implement funding from the Smarter Choices, Smarter a Travel Plan. It provides resource efficiencies Place Open Fund and the 7 Scottish Regional in terms of time and financial resources whilst Transport Partnerships. offering organisations advice and support specific to their particular needs. For more information on how Travelknowhow Scotland can assist your organisation and the Over 185 Scottish organisations are currently RIGHT TRACK pilot, contact registered on the website. [email protected] or visit Fiona Bailey, Workplace Services Team Leader, www.travelknowhowscotland.co.uk and Scottish Water - “Travelknowhow is our go to register to gain full access to all available place when looking for additional resources resources.
32 BC August/September 2019 BC ADVERTORIAL
The role of the built environment in achieving net zero carbon emissions Back in May, the Scottish Government set a target of 2045 to meet net zero carbon emissions, and an aim for Scotland to be carbon neutral by 2040.
By Anne Johnstone many old, listed buildings, is how to retrofit North West of England, on our own workplace them and incorporate innovative and effective in Manchester. The principles learned here Partner, Hollis climate change mitigation measures into the from our in-house team of experts can be used
fabric of the city without changing its essential in Edinburgh, which has a similar make up in This was swiftly followed by Edinburgh City character. our built environment. Council committing to operate on a net zero carbon basis by 2030, fifteen years ahead of We are facing a climate emergency and it is The net zero carbon targets are a challenge, the national target. time for action. Whether we succeed or fail but they are also an opportunity. Also back depends on our ability to collaborate across in May, Christiana Figueres visited the city to As well as ensuring their own operations are Scotland’s public, private and civic sectors. receive the Edinburgh medal for her work as a net zero carbon, the Council is proposing a The climate emergency is all-encompassing world leader on climate change and her efforts number of measures including introducing a and we don’t have the tools to deal with it. Our at bringing nations together to deliver the low-emission zone, re-designing the city centre regulatory, economic and social frameworks Paris climate agreement. Edinburgh Science to focus on pedestrians, cyclists and public are currently highly fragmented. We have to get convened a roundtable with Christiana, who transport rather than cars, and boost clean them aligned to maximise our potential to work threw down a challenge – if not you, then who? power generation capacity and energy storage. together for Scotland’s benefit, and the world. If not now, when? As Christiana says, nothing Scotland is a small country, but with ambition gets done without optimism. We should not The built environment contributes around and focus we can put systems in place here see net zero carbon as the target, but as the 40% of the UK’s total carbon footprint. Almost that others can come from all over the world gateway to transform the built environment half of this is from energy used in buildings to learn from and implement. At Hollis we have to give back more than it takes – to the and from infrastructure - mainly roads. New recently completed the first BREEAM Excellent environment, to people’s health and wellbeing buildings are more energy efficient; however rated fit-out of an existing office space in the and to society at large. the challenge for a city like Edinburgh, with
Finding a way, whatever the challenge International, independent real estate consultants Get in touch: Hollisglobal.com We’re surveyors, engineers, technical specialists, environmental 63a George Street, Edinburgh, EH2 2JG consultants and project managers, working across Europe to help [email protected] you get more out of your real estate. +44 131 240 2800 @hollis_global
August/September 2019 BC 33 CHAMBER PARTNERS
Why CGI and The Herald’s STEM partnership is a digital learning success story for Scotland
Information technology services company CGI has been a global pioneer in the IT industry since it was founded more than 40 years ago.
Now firmly established in Scotland, with offices in Aberdeen, Glasgow, Melrose and Edinburgh – part of a worldwide CGI workforce of 77,000 – it has been striving to help lay the foundations that will shape the future success of the nation’s IT industry. This includes critical technology infrastructure across a diverse group of sectors – from local and public government to energy, utilities, financial services, space and defence. Also of vital importance to CGI is education – and a key aim is to help shine a positive, progressive and informative light upon the achievements and hopes of those working within the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). This led to CGI establishing a partnership with The Herald to back its STEM campaign along with the top tier of Scottish industry and academia. This partnership recognises that training a modern workforce to work in a digital space is vital to growth and ensuring a highly-skilled economy for Scotland. It aims to inspire the next generation of scientists, inventors, engineers and academics project to provide subscription-free access to Attending the launch with Kate Forbes and to embrace STEM subjects in their learning – heraldscotland.com across every single higher Editor-in-Chief of The Herald, Donald Martin, with the aim of making young people aware educational establishment in Scotland. Senior Vice-President of CGI in Scotland, of the wealth of opportunities on offer if they Steve Smart, said: “In the digital world we live It means any student or staff member who choose to dedicate their lives to societal in, having instant access to up to date news logs on to heraldscotland.com while connected advancement, technological progression and and information is vital, so being involved the search for knowledge. to their campus wifi can read its content free in providing this for students and academia of charge – instead of paying The Herald’s across Scotland is something that CGI is very So far the CGI-Herald STEM partnership has led standard £70 annual subscription access fee. pleased to support.” to several ground-breaking schemes bearing fruit. Chief among them was CGI’s continuing This initiative was praised by Scotland’s CGI’s dedication to STEM from childhood is support of Scotland’s excellence in higher Minister for Public Finance and the Digital also present in its STEM Camps and Bring education by sponsoring The Herald’s Higher Economy Kate Forbes, who said at its launch Your Daughter to Work Day. Staff also regularly Education Awards. at the City of Glasgow College: “Access to volunteer to visit pupils and promote career information, knowledge, fact and truth is more Now in their fifth year, the awards took place opportunities at local schools and colleges, and on June 5 at Glasgow’s Crowne Plaza and pressing than ever before. With this initiative the firm has also established an apprenticeships recognised the outstanding achievements of they can provide that access to students and scheme that provides both men and women with the country’s colleges and universities, with the employees which will hopefully set good habits an equal path into the IT industry. top honour of Higher Educational Institution of for years to come.” Together with CGI’s work in Glasgow and the the Year being won by University of Dundee. The project was made possible by IT company Borders, providing iPads for pupils across Another benefit of the CGI-Herald partnership JISC, which provides digital solutions for the UK primary and secondary schools, the future for was CGI’s sponsorship of a new ‘open access’ education and research sector. digital learning in Scotland looks prosperous
34 BC August/September 2019 DEVELOPING YOUNG WORKFORCE
The Scottish Inspiration: DYW inspire the youth Strategy in Hjorring, Denmark
The team at Developing the Young Workforce have been working in partnership with Hjorring Municipality in the North of Denmark to share best practice and inspire the creation of their youth strategy which was successfully launched in May 2019. “When similar challenges have been faced and are being faced working internationally to share learning and understanding can open up many opportunities to understand each other’s strengths.”
The partnership work began in April 2018 Apex Hotels and Mark Davidson, Deputy from from the start to a year on and be part of it when a delegation from the municipality Newbattle High School in Midlothian made by sharing our experiences. I am sure over visited Edinburgh to understand how the the conference in April titled ‘The Scottish time there will be more we can learn from area, specifically Midlothian, was tackling Inspiration’. each other. ”The local government in Hjorring youth unemployment, how employers play a agreed the strategy in May 2019 and work The day was fantastic, over 120 delegates role in informing, inspiring and hiring young is well underway to make a difference to and very motivational for all involved. The people and the impact this had. This visit the lives of young people in the Hjorring impact was felt straight away. involved a trip to secondary schools, the local Municipality. authority and hearing from DYW employer Robert Allen’s experience of working with partners on why they are involved in shaping education and recruiting young people onto youth talent in the region. apprenticeships as a pipeline of talent into the industry was noted to have been the After the first visit the team in Hjorring had inspiration to why the Hjorring employer worked on developing their strategy for youth group supporting their youth strategy have employment and were keen to share their pledged to identify 50 employer partners by inspiration with careers staff, educators and Christmas 2019. employers. The April visit was followed by a second visit in December 2018, this time Programme Director Michelle Fenwick stated; employers, educators and careers staff from “When similar challenges have been faced Hjorring were involved, 30 delegates in total. and are being faced working internationally to share learning and understanding can Following the December visit a small group open up many opportunities to understand were invited to present at conference in each other’s strengths. We do not always Denmark. Michelle Fenwick, Programme have the solutions and the international Director for DYW Edinburgh, Midlothian and work has developed learning for all involved. East Lothian, Robert Allen, HR Director for It has been great to see a strategy evolve
August/September 2019 BC 35 IN CONVERSATION WITH: KEITH WATTERS
Name: Keith Watters Company Name: Graham + Sibbald Role: Partner
1. Can you describe the Graham + Sibbald business? At Graham + Sibbald we are proud to be at the forefront of an ever-changing property sector. We trade as a traditional Partnership as we consider that this best reflects our commitment to provide safe, reliable and trusted advice and support. We understand the challenges that businesses and property owners face and we work to ensure that our services deliver the speed, insight, added value and outcomes they need.
2. What does your role involve? I am one of 5 partners in our 30 strong Edinburgh office. I am actively involved in all parts of our business but focus specifically on Commercial Property Agency, providing buying, selling and leasing advice across all commercial property sectors, including commercial, retail, industrial and student accommodation.
3. Why do you think international investment has Keith increased in Scotland specifically? Watters Scotland and Edinburgh in particular are seen as a safe and stable place to invest at competitive pricing when compared to other major European Capitals. Having an international presence is important to us at Graham + Sibbald which is why we have strategic will need a continued period of low interest rates to keep the returns alliances with various international property consultants, with which competitive as an asset class and would not be surprised if they local expertise is available in the case of international real estate were lowered to help stimulate economic activity. issues. The strategic partners are all companies that are managed in the same way as us, partner owned firms. The strategic alliances 6. Do you have any advice for an international investor mean we can guarantee the personal approach and high quality looking to invest in Scotland? of service in all major geographic regions. The companies are Carter Jonas, Van Gool Elburg and the German Property Partners Keep investing. We have a skilled workforce and are well positioned (comprising Grossmann & Berger, ANTEON Immobilien, GREIF & in the digital technology sector which bodes well for the future, CONTZEN Immobilien, blackolive and E & G Real Estate) whilst remaining the UK’s second largest financial centre. This highlights why Scotland sits as the UK’s most attractive location for 4. Do you think Brexit could have a potentially negative foreign direct investment after London. effect? If so, in what way? The property market does not like uncertainty and we have now 7. Other than your current position, what would be your been working in this environment 3 years. Therefore, a no deal dream job? Brexit would see this period continue, my hope, as a ‘Remainer’ is a A professional sportsman or sports journalist. Graham + Sibbald sensible deal can be reached which provides a period of certainty regularly support a number of youth football and rugby teams for the property market as a whole. However, sensibility seems to have left politics for the time being. across Scotland. In Edinburgh, we specifically sponsor The Edinburgh Academical Football Club and Stewart’s Melville RFC. 5. How would you propose to counteract the uncertainty surrounding Brexit? 8. Outside of business, what is most important in your life? I’m not sure anyone has the answer to that, though if they did, they Family. My wife, Adrienne and our two boys, Rhys (13) and should immediately get involved in Politics! In terms of property, we Murray (10).
36 BC August/September 2019 CHAMBER TRAINING Do you dabble in export or buy from overseas?
It is well documented that companies trading But you also need a third thing: to understand internationally: clearly the skills you and the company needs Increase their sales and profitability; to make this successful. By developing your understanding of how exporting and importing Build a strategy to compensate for seasonal works - the contract terms, the paperwork, the demands; customs and logistic issues as well as the legal Expand the life cycle of a product and service, and finance aspects – gives you an added and advantage when going international. And this means investing in the right people and investing Going international can yield valuable ideas in practical training to build up the international and information about new technologies, “brain” of the business. new marketing techniques and foreign competitors. How comfortable would you feel driving 70mph By Sandra Strong You could argue that consciously deciding to on the M8 if you knew the cars around you were If yes, you are following the true tradition of the develop internationally is not for the faint hearted, being driven by people who had taken no lessons great Scottish businesspeople, entrepreneurs but then, neither is setting up and running a and not passed their driving test? Worried at and innovators. If you don’t dabble, then why business in the first place and you did that, so least. Well, this morning everything may be ok not? Does it seem too difficult? Did you export you already have two of the key characteristics for these joy riders but as the saying goes, its “an once or twice, and things went wrong? Were you 1. The determination to prove your product/ accident waiting to happen”. stung by customs delays or failed to get paid or services are the best and enhance your received damaged goods the supplier refused It’s no different to the international trade “joy domestic reputation to replace? Never mind, try and try again – but rides” some companies attempt, but with the this time understand the skills required to make 2. A well-tuned business sense to seek right preparation the experience is thrilling, just it work. opportunities and develop important contacts like driving a fast car safely.
Upcoming Courses
Wednesday 4th Tuesday 17th AUGUST Boost your Sales Success Dealing with Difficult Situations
Thursday 5th Wednesday 18th Tuesday 20th Finance for Non Financial Managers Essential Management Skills Networking Skills Thursday 5th Thursday 19th Wednesday 21st Google Ads - Introduction Digital Writing Skills Business and report writing masterclass Friday 6th Thursday 19th Thursday 22nd Social Media for Beginners Coaching Conversations Incoterms Friday 20th Monday 9th Monday 26th Advanced Social Media Marketing and 21st Century Management Advanced Presentation Skills Advertising on Facebook & Instagram Tuesday 10th Tuesday 27th Monday 23 Train the Trainer Negotiating and Influencing Skills How to prepare for TV & Radio interviews
Wednesday 28th Tuesday 10th Tuesday 24 Budgeting and Financial Planning Mastering Video Content for Your Business Email Marketing for Business
Thursday 29th Wednesday 11th Wednesday 25th Presentation Skills Digital Marketing Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) - An Introduction Thursday 12th Wednesday 25th SEPTEMBER Time Management Sales and Account Management Friday 13th Friday 27th Tuesday 3rd Advanced Social Media Techniques linkedIn How To Approach and Manage Customer Change Management & Twitter for Business Development Service on Social Media
To book please contact the training team on 0131 221 2999 option 4 or email [email protected]
August/September 2019 BC 37 CHAMBER: CIRCULAR ECONOMY Scottish rugby - scoring on circular economy Scottish Rugby is determined to embrace circular economic thinking to convert its massive match day operations to play a big part in creating a better environment.
And at the same time, the operators of rugby’s Circular Edinburgh is a joint initiative delivered in our grounds. This also involves suitable national stadium at BT Murrayfield in Edinburgh by Zero Waste Scotland and Edinburgh waste-management logistics to ensure that believe the changes they are making will also Chamber of Commerce, with funding support such initiatives are handled properly after they help increase efficiency. from the European Regional Development leave the stadium. Fund. The Chamber is delivering a range of “Furthermore, in recognition of the Scotland Introducing re-usable cups for hot and cold local activities to help identify opportunities national team’s ability to set a positive example drinks were high on the list. Already, recyclable for local businesses and direct them towards (particularly when being broadcast to an beer cups (introduced for the 2018 Autumn available support and funding. tests) have removed more than 250,000 single audience of millions), all players and coaches use plastics this year. After match-days at BT Murrayfield, Scottish have been given Chilly Bottles (reusable bottles), Rugby segregates the waste at source, which is with the team using 60 fewer cases of water in But Scottish Rugby is also looking at how it then further segregated when it gets to waste November compared to last year.” disposes of waste, how it reuses materials providers depot with all component parts In addition to all of this, BT Murrayfield’s award- – for example grass cuttings which are broken down and recycled. Scottish Rugby has winning grounds team endeavours to use only composted – and how players and coaches a 0% landfill policy. can help deliver positive circular economic organic materials in the care of the pitches, messages. The introduction of reusable beer cups means both in terms of feeding programmes and supporters’ cups can be reused at each grass removal – composting all grass cuttings, A circular economy looks to keep the flow of game – supporters pay a £1 deposit and can for instance. materials and products within the economy for return the cup at the end of the day and collect Circular Edinburgh is supported by funding as long as possible, extracting the maximum their deposit or take the cup home. Many are from both the Scottish Government and the value from them whilst in use. It’s where choosing to keep the cups. businesses, industry and consumers work European Regional Development Fund through together to make things last. Scottish Rugby’s spokesperson added: the £73million Resource Efficient Circular “Scottish Rugby recently examined Economy Accelerator Programme. A Scottish Rugby spokesperson said: “We’re the introduction of both PLA and oxo- For further information please visit very supportive of a Circular Economy, biodegradable single-use cups for this initiative, www.edinburghchamber.co.uk/circular-edinburgh minimising waste and maximising the rather than a rigid recyclable cup, however or contact Mayan Grace 0131 221 2999 use of materials. At Scottish Rugby we’ve the waste facilities to allow the separation (option 5) or email examined ways in which we can reduce our and correct composting of the former isn’t yet [email protected] environmental impact, working with suppliers, widely available in Scotland. sponsors and staff. “Scottish Rugby also continues to examine the “It is a complex task, and one we will continue remaining single-use-plastics and cardboards to review and evolve.”
38 BC August/September 2019 60 SECONDS
Name: Brendan Walsh Company Name: Hawthorn Business Group Website: www.hawthornbusinessgroup.co.uk
In five words or less, what do you do? Are there any additional Help businesses grow their sales services or information you’d be particularly interested in? How long have you been a Chamber member? Working more on meeting other 10 years, since I moved to Edinburgh Chamber members, I know this is a service the Chamber offers and I’ve Why did you join? note really availed myself of it much Being new to Edinburgh I was looking to get to date. known! If you were telling another business What Chamber services do you use? person about the Chamber, what’s the Brendan Events, training first thing you would say? Walsh What’s the best business/benefit you have They offer great services, but you have won through the Chamber? to network with the great team from the Where do you read your copy of Business Comment? Meeting lots of great people, many of whom Chamber, don’t sit back and wait for it to have turned into beneficial 2-way relationships. happen! In bed, it rarely leaves my side!
By Bill Magee Scottish Business Technology GET WITH IT Writer of the Year
Digital transition endows an organisation with a stellar global reach, that’s a given. But how best to make the most of such a unique opportunity to make it on the international stage?
It is now widely accepted that for digitizing crucial to keep up-to-date digitally. processes to be effective they must centre on To “stay ahead of the digital curve” to what’s achieving both an operational and competitive scalable and proven in terms of what suits a advantage. At home and increasingly overseas. particular company’s aims and objectives. Digital transformation should be filling the Mark knows what he’s talking about. With minds of business leaders with ambitions an impressive track record devising and to ensure their outfit makes significant implementing sales and marketing models commercial strides beyond their backyard. Out over 25 years - IT industry global experience of their commercial comfort zone, if you like. across vertical markets including Ministry of I bumped into Chamber member, Capito’s Mark Defence, police, government, finance, security, Gibson, newly-installed managing director of media and pharmaceuticals. the leading provider over the last three decades Bottom line? Don’t feel you have to go it alone. of best-in-class IT services and solutions to Look at linking-up with a specialist high-tech commercial and public service organisations. partner, for example when it comes to Device He stresses that there’s much for business and as a Service (DaaS) to gain a lasting and senior IT executives to consider. Above all, it is meaningful digital impact on your business.
August/September 2019 BC 39 INSPIRING CONNECTIONS
It’s been a summer of fun at the Chamber and there’s plenty more to come! Our annual report announced that Chamber events have seen a 14% increase in number of attendee’s year on year and surveys report that 100% of attendees are satisfied or very satisfied with our events programme.
This summer we’ve had a range of events of the stadium, changing rooms and soaked up to celebrate Edinburgh’s busiest month with an from an Early Start with Edinburgh Rugby, a some sun on the pitch! evening of exciting activities, including ESPA Scavenger Hunt and an Inspiring Woman in treatments and highland games along with We had a record number of attendees for our Business Lunch. delicious food and refreshing beverages. It will Scavenger Hunt in June which saw 12 teams be the perfect setting to catch up with Chamber Back in June, we spent an afternoon with race around Edinburgh City Centre on a very members old and new! Dawnne Mahmoud, Deputy Group HR Director toasty evening, before returning to Eastside of Phoenix Group at our most recent Inspiring after posing with Oor Wullie’s, Teslas and Heading into the autumn months we have a Woman in Business Lunch. Dawnne shared Mulberry Handbags! Congratulations to the Big variety of events including an Inspiring Woman her inspirational journey and advice she has Partnership team who took 1st prize on the night! in Business Lunch with Lesley Franklin, Principal gathered along the way with the room. We were At the end of August we are excited to take our of George Heriot’s School, a Lunch at Gusto the also delighted to take a tour of the Edinburgh annual Chamber summer party to the luxurious elegant Italian located on George Street and Rugby’s home ground Murrayfield. Over 50 of Carlowrie Castle! We’re delighted to be dinners with two of Scotland’s key business our members were treated to an exclusive tour partnering with Qatar Airways and Stagecoach leaders. We hope you see you at an event soon!
40 BC August/September 2019 INSPIRING CONNECTIONS
Events
AUGUST
Developing Edinburgh: VisitScotland Thursday 8th 08:30 / 10:00
Exploring Shenzhen and the China Markets Wednesday 21st 08:30 / 10:30
Summer Celebration at Carlowrie Castle Thursday 22nd 16:30 / 20:30
Lunch at the Scotch Malt Whisky Society Tuesday 27th 12:30 / 14:30
United Airlines & Edinburgh Airport Breakfast Briefing Thursday 29th 08:30 / 10:00
Golf Day Tournament at Dalmahoy Friday 30th 13:00 / 16:30
SEPTEMBER
Scotland’s Economy – Dinner with Benny Higgins Wednesday 4th 17:30 / 20:30
Inspiring Woman in Business Lunch with Lesley Franklin, Principal of George Heriot’s School Wednesday 11th 12:30 / 14:30
Lunch at Gusto Wednesday 18th 12:30 / 14:30
Making Scotland’s Economy Stronger For All: Dinner with Steve Dunlop CEO, Scottish Enterprise Thursday 19th 17:30 / 20:30
August/September 2019 BC 41 CHAMBER PARTNERS
We thank our Partners for their continued support of the Chamber.
STRATEGIC PARTNERS
ENTERPRISE PARTNERS
42 BC August/September 2019 CHAMBER PARTNERS
Going International When I was asked to write an article with an international theme, it sparked a few thoughts as international is something which differs for everyone.
Essentially connectivity is a concept that So, our connections map is in a very good place boils down to getting from A to B in the most but, like most things, we can always improve efficient and seamless way possible. by adding more new destinations across the world. That also brings people to Edinburgh, a The simplicity of that is never lost on us city which is so attractive in many ways. and is always in our minds when we look at new routes and destinations, deciding But we need to be attractive to international which pieces fit the wider jigsaw in terms of business as well. For us as an international business links, tourism, leisure and everything airport, that means drawing in airlines from in between. across the world and showing them what we have to offer. By ‘we’ I mean the city. To bring the world closer to us, we need connectivity. We know that Scotland, as an We market Edinburgh as a destination. Yes, island nation which itself has many islands the airport is important to that but the city and and is on the periphery of Europe, needs links all that it brings is the jewel in that particular at home and abroad to be considered as an crown. We sell the city’s history and its culture. internationalist country. We celebrate our world-famous festivals and architecture. And we praise our burgeoning By Gordon Dewar That’s why we build capacity and our FinTech industries and our educational destination list and why we are always seeking institutions. Chief Executive of Edinburgh Airport new routes. That is a vision that is working for us and seems to be working for those who That’s a story of openness and innovation. A For some it’s a goal to take their business pass through the terminal. story of inclusivity and one that we share. And international. For others it’s looking at what it’s a story that we should tell together because country they take their business to next. And We’ve built our international capabilities one voice is stronger than many differing ones. some us will just be thinking about which extensively. From the Far East and Beijing to country we visit next. the Middle East and the fantastic hubs in Doha Let’s take our seat at the tables of the world and Dubai, to Istanbul and across Europe, we and tell that shared story for the benefit of all But, luckily for me, all those things can have the direct access. of us. be facilitated by my own place of work at Edinburgh Airport! That’s why connectivity is We’ve opened North America and Canada with Our strapline is where Scotland meets the crucial – it brings us closer to the world, and routes to New York, Chicago, Washington D.C., world – lets work together and make it easier the world closer to us. Philadelphia, Boston and Toronto and beyond. for the world to meet us.
August/September 2019 BC 43 CHAMBER PARTNERS
Who knew commuting could be so enjoyable? If, when you think about public transport during rush hour, you think of standing in overcrowded aisles with strangers breathing down your neck – think again.
A comfy leather reclining seat is guaranteed on Fife. The addition of services X52, X57 and When it comes to paying for your ticket, it’s an board the modern, luxury coaches that operate X61 will increase the frequency of services into absolute breeze with contactless. Every service on Stagecoach’s award-winning Express Edinburgh. From Monday 29 July, reliability accepts payment via contactless-enabled bank City Connect network services. The network improvements will be made to services X55 cards, mobile phones and smart watches, provides coach travel throughout Fife, Perth, Dunfermline to Edinburgh and X56 Perth to plus tickets are also available to buy online Dundee and Angus with journeys extending to Edinburgh and revisions to service X60 will see and via the StagecoachBus app. Longer-term Edinburgh, Aberdeen and Glasgow. The luxury faster Express services from Kirkcaldy into tickets are available and ideal for commuters, coaches feature air conditioning to keep you Edinburgh, with a frequency of up to every 20 including 7 day and 4 week passes. There are cool in summer and warm in winter, and the at- minutes and offers the fastest possible journey also megaider Xtra tickets, which are stored seat ‘stop’ buttons mean that there’s no need to into Edinburgh via Halbeath and Ferrytoll Park on a smartcard and automatically renew each rush to the front when it’s time to get off. With & Ride sites. month. No hassle, no fuss. free WiFi access and device charging points on With the original Forth Road Bridge acting as Luxury coaches, free WiFi, the reassurance board, you can stay connected on the go too. a dedicated passageway for public transport of a relaxing journey after a long day, and Services between Fife and Edinburgh are between Edinburgh and Fife, Stagecoach spectacular views. Who knew commuting frequent with departures up to every five customers can easily avoid the traffic queues could be so enjoyable? minutes from Ferrytoll Park & Ride. Upcoming - and the large coach windows provide Plan your journey at stagecoachbus.com changes to the Express City Connect network spectacular views of the new Queensferry are set to further benefit commuter links from Crossing and iconic Forth Rail Bridge.
44 BC August/September 2019 INTERNATIONAL UPDATE Chamber International Update Our team have had a very busy year building global ambition in Scottish based businesses
We have hosted explore market events for which will help to explore opportunities in 24/25th September Spanish Delegation, Canada, China, UAE, Belgium, Nordic Countries, international markets. interested in meeting Scottish businesses France and Ireland and carried out trade within the Construction, Technology and As Brexit extensions and negotiations continue, missions to Ireland and Germany. Some of Infrastructure sectors. we can use our enviable international network these events and trade missions have been in and relationships to inform local businesses on Outward trade missions: collaboration with SDI, International Chambers trade opportunities, to support them with their of Commerce and other international Trade mission to Paris international growth strategies and to connect governments and organisations. Tuesday 8th to Thursday 10th October them with global markets. Cross sector with a focus on Food & Drink We have welcomed many inward delegations from countries including China, Italy, Finland, Building Global Connections Trade mission to Dublin Wednesday 6th and Thursday 7th November Chile and Belgium and are continuing to work In June, the International Trade Club of the Cross sector closely with a number of countries we have Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce was pleased signed MOUs with. to welcome and host a Chinese delegation Trade mission to Shenzhen Our international documentation team are coming from Shenzhen, a major city in Sunday 10th to Saturday 16th November continuing to see an increase in demand for Guangdong Province, China. Cross sector, focus on Technology and Creative Industries export documentation, which shows that Our team had the opportunity to offer B2B despite political uncertainties, businesses are meetings to Chinese delegates with Scottish Explore Shenzhen and China markets 21st continuing to trade abroad. companies from a wide range of sectors August 2019 (media, construction, legal services, banking Going forwards we will be supporting the If this is something of interest, our team would services). Scottish Chambers of Commerce Network be delighted to provide you with further details to deliver an International Trade Partnership and organise one to one meetings for you. which will help Scottish companies to trade International Calendar of Events: Please email internationally over three years, as part of the Inward Missions: [email protected] Scottish Government’s export growth plan. 13th September Shenzhen Delegation, To get more information regarding our We will work with the Scottish Chambers of interested in meeting Scottish businesses international activities contact the team Commerce to develop a programme of activity, within the Creative Industries, Technology 0131 221 2999 option 5 or email including inward and outward trade missions, sector. [email protected]
August/September 2019 BC 45 EDINBURGH'S NEWCOMERS
Georgina Matt Paul Gilmour Christie Nixon
Curtain up for Market New Membership Sales 5* Visitor Attraction appoints Street Hotel Executive at Edinburgh new General Manager Georgina Gilmour has been appointed Sales Chamber of Commerce Multi award winning, 5* Visitor Attraction The & Marketing Manager at one of Edinburgh’s Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce have Real Mary King’s Close, part of Continuum most anticipated openings in recent years, appointed a new Membership Sales Executive Attractions, has appointed Paul Nixon as their bringing with her over 10 years of experience Matt Christie to boost the current pool of new General Manager. Paul Nixon has over 20 with exclusive use venues and luxury hotels. members and adds an additional resource to years of experience in the Hospitality, Travel Market Street hotel is owned by Carlton Hotel the current membership team. and Tourism industry, having previously worked Collection and was born from a passion for at some of Scotland’s more prestigious visitor genuine, culturally rooted hospitality and Matt comes from a predominantly hospitality attractions. Most recently, he was employed cutting-edge design and architecture. The 98 sales background having been a part of the by Winton Castle as General Manager. Paul is bedroom boutique hotel will be the first Scottish hospitality sales team at Scottish Rugby an active Board Member of ASVA (Association member of global lifestyle brand Design Hotels™ Hospitality for 18 months working across of Scottish Visitor Attractions). The Real Mary when it opens this summer. various events ranging from 6 Nations to The King’s Close continues to grow from strength Rolling Stones. to strength, achieving a Scottish Thistle Award Georgina said “I am thrilled to be part of the for Best Heritage Tourism Experience, and opening team at Market Street. Although this Matt said “I am very excited to be joining the is currently shortlisted for the British Travel is the second hotel launch of my career, it’s chamber and look forward to the challenges Awards 2019. Juliana Delaney, Chief Executive the first time I’ve been involved in bringing that it will bring. It is great to be involved in of Continuum Attractions, said: “We are very a completely new brand to the market and an organisation that has already built up so excited to welcome Paul to the team. The Real that has been something really special. Our many fantastic relationships with the business Mary King’s Close is one of our busiest sites, prominent position on the iconic old town community in Edinburgh and further afield. The operating in the heart of Edinburgh, and Paul skyline has attracted the interest of locals team at Edinburgh Chamber have all been very will be instrumental in the success of the site over the past few years and now the project welcoming and helped me settle in since I first going forward.” is nearing completion, we are experiencing a walked through the door and I am very excited real buzz around our opening. I’m particularly to be in a position to forge strong connections excited for guests to experience our 7th floor with businesses throughout the city and BUSINESS COMMENT IS AN EDINBURGH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PUBLICATION rooftop Champagne lounge, Nor’ Loft, which will help them grow and move forward through a be a welcome addition to Edinburgh’s thriving relationship with the chamber.” Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce, Business Centre, 2nd bar scene with city views from a perspective Floor, 40 George Street, Edinburgh EH2 2LE www.edinburghchamber.co.uk that many may not have seen before.” President: Scott Black Chief Executive: Liz McAreavey
EDITOR: Emma Reid, Tel: 0131 221 2999 Email: [email protected]
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