your ayrshire business autumn 2012

AUTUMN 2012 £2

Inside this month:

Scotland’s first biosphere: page 4Making a splash: page 13Field of dreams: page 15

partners for businessAyrshire Chamber wishes to acknowledge the support

of the following companies as sponsors of ourPartners for Business programme.

Published by SP Publications on behalf of Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce & Industry2012. No part of this magazine may be copied, scanned or reproduced without theexpress permission of the Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce.

The views expressed in editorial and/or advertising in “YourAyrshire Business” are not necessarily those of the EditorialCommittee of Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce & Industry.Articles submitted for publication will be considered at theCommittee’s discretion and may be subject to editing.Publication is not guaranteed.

01294 487007 Energetic materials, rocketmotors, demolition stores, pyrotechnic & propellant devices

01292 611028 The power of insurance

01292 885923 National Health Service

01563 558844 A total solutions company

0800 0432760 IT service & support

01292 265071 Chartered accountantsand Business Advisers

01292 280499 Legal Services

01434 611300 Pioneering solutions for everyday life

contactsAyrshire Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Suite 1005,

Glasgow Airport, Prestwick KA9 2PL

Email: [email protected]

Web: www.ayrshire-chamber.org Tel: 01292 678666

PRESIDENT Willie Mackie

CHIEF EXECUTIVE Valerie Russell

DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Helen McBride

magazineEditorial Content:

Design, Typesetting & Publisher:

Print & Distribution:

[email protected]

[email protected]

www.brown-bros.com

brown brothersink on paper experts

01563 500831With you all the way

01292 885928Health advice and services for the workplace

01292 269909Chartered Financial Planners

2 your ayrshire business autumn 2012

3your ayrshire business autumn 2012

Going for Gold!DESPITE the majority of the eventsbeing held in London it was hard notto get caught up in the whole Olympicfever, especially with Scottishathletes bagging so many of themedals!

Ayrshire’s part in the Olympic TorchRelay put us firmly on the map and thelocal authorities involved deserve thanksfor making this such a huge success. Itwas heart-warming to see so manypeople turning out to welcome the hostof Ayrshire torchbearers. We had apersonal interest in young ConorMcAdam who carried the torch along AyrHigh Street. Conor had just completeda week’s work experience here at theChamber and we all got caught up in hisenthusiasm - not a dry eye in the houseas we watched him complete his leg ofthe relay!

We do not have the legacy of anyinfrastructure or sports facilities but wecan learn from the spirit of Team GBand I call upon you all to support TeamAyrshire!• Support our young people by

offering work experience placements,Modern Apprenticeships or simplyshare your experience of the world ofwork.

• Support other Ayrshire businessesby buying local whether it is productsor services.• Support the regeneration of our

town centres again by buying local.• Support your local Chamber of

Commerce by joining or recommendingus to other business colleagues.• Support Business Week and the

Ayrshire Business Awards.Together we can make Ayrshire the

best county to work, live or play!As a Chamber we truly believe in the

strength of the network of both publicand private sector organisations whoare currently working together to ensureAyrshire is in the best possible shapeto withstand this continuing recessionand are grasping all potentialopportunities to grow and create bothnew jobs and new businesses.

Forging new alliances andpartnerships is never easy and theserelationships must be built ontransparency and trust. Our economicupturn will come from within and will beled by local business people but withsupport from our public sectorcolleagues.

As we enjoy the last of the summersunshine (such as it has been) we havebeen busy planning a full programme of

Chief Executive: Valerie Russell

events and training for autumn /winterand of course the Ayrshire BusinessAwards – we may not be awardingbronze, silver or gold but we will becelebrating the best of Team Ayrshire!

If you would like to find out how tosupport some of the activities aboveplease email me at [email protected]

Valerie RussellChief Executive


Tel: 01655 883251 Fax: 01655 882511 Mobile: 07768 624954

CONTRACTS UNDERTAKEN

New water mains installed, drainagework (land drainage, golf courses etc),kerbing, paving, monoblock, etc.Suppliers of drainage pipe, underground,sewer water pipe and fi ttings.CONTRACT HIRE JCB,TRACTOR AND ATTACHMENTS24-26 KIRKOSWALD ROAD,MAYBOLE, AYRSHIRE KA19 7TX

PLANT HIREJCB Track Machine• 3CX 4x4 for hire (also self drive)• Rock Breaker for 3CX 4x4• Tractors and Dump Trailers• Gravel Infi ll Trailer• Tractors Self Drive• Dumper, 2 Ton Roller etc• Trailer Gritting Machines• Hanamag Loading Shovel• Mini Excavator Hire•

jamiesonplant hire and contractors

business the magazine of ayrshire chamber of commerce and industry

your yrshire

To advertise in the next edition of

call Stuart Penningtonon 07792 362 587

Scotland’s first Biosphere

GALLOWAY and Southern Ayrshire haverecently achieved international status asScotland’s first UNESCO Biosphere. It isone of 20 new Biosphere Reservesadded to UNESCO’s Man and theBiosphere (MAB) Programme atUNESCO’s meeting in Paris on the 11thJuly 2012.

Galloway and Southern Ayrshire willnow become part of the World Networkof Biosphere Reserves (WNBR). Thenetwork includes 598 Biospheres in117 countries

Roger Crofts, Chair of the BiospherePartnership said, “The unique balancebetween environment and people thatmake Galloway and Southern Ayrshirea special place to live is at the heartof the justification for UNESCOBiosphere status.

Our consultation and engagementprocess has reconfirmed our beliefthat the commitment of thecommunities, businesses and publicsector agencies to developing moresustainable communities, businesspractices and lifestyles will help drivethe process forward.

Biosphere status will provide a new andunique opportunity to focus onunderstanding, testing and demonstratingnew and innovative approaches tobalancing conservation and developmentpressures and to working through thepractical implications of sustainable livingat meaningful ecosystem and bio-geographic regional scales.

By working together, collaborativelywithin the framework of Biospherestatus, we now have a new and

exciting opportunity to make realprogress. I am sure that this can onlymake Galloway and Southern Ayrshirean even better place to live, work, visitand invest in.”

UNESCO Biospheres are the onlyglobal accreditation for areas seeking todemonstrate excellence in sustainabledevelopment practice. A 27 memberPartnership, broadly representative oflocal society in south west Scotland, hasbeen responsible for overseeing the bidto UNESCO. The Partnership will nowprovide strategic direction to the newBiosphere, going forward.www.gallowayandsouthernayrshire

biosphere.org.uk


Challenge your Apprentices in 20122012 IS proving to be very eventful– the Queen celebrated herDiamond Jubilee marking 60 yearsas Britain’s Monarch, a Scottishplayer reached the finals atWimbledon, the Olympics arehosted in the UK and in December,according to some eschatologicalbeliefs, the world will end. As ifthat wasn’t enough, it is also the10th Anniversary of the ModernApprenticeship Challenge hostedevery year by Ayrshire Business inthe Community with the support ofAyrshire Chamber of Commerceand Skills Development Scotland.

Each year, Ayrshire Business inthe Community offer localEmployers the opportunity toregister either a Team ofApprentices or an individualApprentice to the challenge toundertake a community projectwhich benefits the local communityand demonstrates and developstheir skills as an Apprentice.

The main objectives of the challenge are:• To demonstrate the quality of Apprentices employed in Ayrshire. • To demonstrate the high level oftraining offered by Ayrshire companies/organisations. • To forge links between local companiesand local communities. • To raise the profile of local companiestaking part. • To highlight the Modern Apprenticemovement in Ayrshire. • To encourage more young people toconsider a Modern Apprenticeship. • To encourage more local companies to consider offering ModernApprenticeships.

Modern Apprentices from throughoutAyrshire recently took part in the AyrshireBusiness in the Community ModernApprenticeship Challenge 2011-2012.Brian Cameron of Skills DevelopmentScotland said, “The Ayrshire ModernApprenticeship Challenge provides anexcellent opportunity for local ModernApprentices to showcase their acquiredskills and to use them for the benefit oftheir local communities. Five projectswere delivered this year and were a creditnot only to the Apprentices but also to theirrespective employers. Skills DevelopmentScotland was delighted, once again, tosupport this initiative.”

The Winning Team for 2011-2012 ABICApprenticeship Challenge went to theApprentices of GE Caledonian who alsowon last year’s Challenge, a new record!Their project was the design andinstallation of a walk-through aviary atDean Park in Kilmarnock, rumoured to bethe first ever walk-through aviary inScotland. Stewart Christie of GECaledonian said, “I believe that ourApprentices gained valuable experience bytaking part in the Modern Apprenticeship

Challenge. In order to successfullycomplete what was a fairly large project,they demonstrated teamwork, planning,time management and budget control. Thefinal cost was zero as all the material theyused was recycled.

Participating gave them the opportunityto use various hands on skills they do notroutinely use during their Apprenticeship.Ayrshire Business in the Communityprovided a presentation skills coursethrough Ology Coaching which allowed thegroup to create and present their project ina professional manner to the judgingpanel. GE Caledonian will continue tosupport this initiative as we considerparticipation to be a great experience forour Apprentices as well as providingtangible benefits to the local community.’’

Apprentices from North Ayrshire Councilwon the prize for Innovation for the up-grading of the outdoor area at James ReidSchool, Ardrossan. At the presentationevent, Deputy Headmaster Jim McCallum,described the project like “changingplaygrounds”. On Friday night he left anordinary playground and came back onMonday morning to a fully refurbishedplayground with new bench seating,planters and a play train as well as generalrefurbishment of existing equipment, thechildren love it.

Lesley Craig, Ayrshire Business in theCommunity said: “The Modern ApprenticeshipChallenge promotes mutual benefits betweenemployers and local communities in addition toincreasing the confidence and skills of theModern Apprentices. The project sponsors andthe Modern Apprentices thoroughly enjoy theirtime together during the planning andinstallation/delivery phases and this alsopromotes citizenship within local communities.In my opinion everyone who takes part is aWinner.”

Apprentice Teams from the following

organisations were also recognised fortheir achievements;Ashleigh Building designed and installed

decking/outdoor storage facilities atVineburgh Community Centre, Irvine.East Ayrshire Council designed, built and

installed planters and trees in the Onthank area,Kilmarnock and also won the Award for BestPresentation at the Event.Goodrich designed and installed a secure

decking for Aberlour Ardfin House, Prestwick.All participants and beneficiaries attended a

special presentation ceremony at The Park Hotel,Kilmarnock on June 18th hosted by AyrshireBusiness in the Community.

Special thanks to the judging panel whichconsisted of; Valerie Russell of AyrshireChamber,

Brian Cameron of Skills DevelopmentScotland and David McCall of Munro Architects

Thanks also to Walter Gregg of Ology Coachingfor supporting the Challenge each year with freepresentation skills training for Apprentices tohelp prepare them for the presentation event.

To celebrate our 10th anniversary of theChallenge, we’d like to make it bigger and betterthan ever before.

If your organisation would like to take part inthis year’s Modern Apprenticeship Challenge, orif you would like to suggest a project forApprentices to undertake, please visitwww.ayrshirebic.org Modern Apprenticeshipsection for further details - registration is nowopen and is without obligation.

Project suggestions can also be submittedonline. If you are unsure about participating,Lesley Craig, Project Co-ordinator would be happyto have an informal chat with you to answer anyquestions.

Contact Lesley on: 01292 670146 or email:[email protected]


Retiring employees -an important decisionCONCERNS about annuity rates have been increasinglyevident in recent times. These concerns will be testedfurther when Solvency II, which is a fundamentalreview of the capital adequacy regime for the Europeaninsurance industry, along with Gender equalisationcome into effect. Both are likely to impact even furtheron annuity rates.When purchasing an annuity, a life assurance company

converts your pension pot into income payments. More than60% of retirees complete the paperwork that is sent by theirexisting pension provider and, in doing so, could be losingout on a substantially higher level of income. In a recentexample, a client was quoted by their existing provider, anincome of £8,396 per annum. By making use of the openmarket option and taking health issues into account, theclient was offered an income of £10,120 per annum on thesame basis. Over a ten year period this 21% increaseequates to additional income of £17,240. Such enhanced rates apply if there are any health issues

such as diabetes, high cholesterol or blood pressure.However higher rates may also be available depending onBMI readings and even, surprisingly, post code areas.Many people are unhappy at having to tie into today's low

annuity rates for the rest of their lives. As a result manypeople coming up to retirement have been keeping theiroptions open by considering alternatives such as fixed-termannuities and invested annuities. Fixed term annuitiesprovide the option of possibly getting a better rate in a fewyears' time if rates have improved or if there have been anychanges in health, where the individual could qualify for anenhanced rate. Invested annuities may reduce the effect ofinflation on your income if the underlying investmentperforms well.The purchase of an annuity is a decision your employee

will have to live with for the rest of their life. With this inmind there are two clear issues to consider education andadvice i.e. ensuring employees have an understanding andawareness of their options and that their decision is thecorrect one.Munro Partnership Ltd provides a ‘Ready to Retire’

advisory service and is offering it at no cost to employers.This will ultimately serve as an enhancement to theiremployee benefits package.To find out more, visit our website www.readytoretire.info

or contact us on 0843 659 4777.

KILMARNOCK Company Smillie &Cuthbertson Ltd this year celebrates 65years in business. The company is currentlyowned by Alasdair Mackenzie, who servedhis Engineering Apprenticeship with theCompany and worked for them for 8 yearsbefore leaving in the early 90’s to gain moreexperience in Project Management beforereturning in 2000. Since purchasing the business in 2006,

Alasdair and his wife Heather have spentthe last six years growing and expandingthe client base, increasing sector andgeographical coverage and upgrading andimproving facilities and operationalsystems at their base in James LittleStreet, Kilmarnock. Specialising in all types of fabrication &

welding, machining, pipeworkinstallations, maintenance andstructural steelwork, throughthe years the client base hasshifted from agricultural to awide range in sectors such asDefence, Food Processing,Manufacturing, Energy, Utilities,Health, and more. Alasdair said, “Heather and

I are very proud to be at thehelm of a successful, wellestablished Ayrshire Businessin its 65th year and are gratefulthat; especially in the currentclimate when we have seenthe demise of many longstanding businesses in ourarea, we are stronger andfeeling very positive aboutgrowth over the next few years.Like many other businesses,we have experienced somechallenging times over the lastfew years but this has forcedus to re-evaluate and makeimprovements which have

enabled us to move forward with a morerobust infrastructure. We are lookingforward to many more years continuing ourgrowth plan and investing in our valuableteam of Employees and Apprentices. Wewould also like to thank the AyrshireBusiness Community and members of thepublic who have supported us over theyears.”As part of their modernisation the

Company has just Rebranded as S+CEngineering. Alasdair added, “We felt thatthe Company needed to create an imagemore in keeping with the type of work wenow do – so we have rebranded with abright, innovative logo to increaseawareness and advertise the manyservices we offer.”www.s-c-engineering.co.uk


Keepingit localTWO Ayrshire Chamber of Commercemembers, Paligap and Bridgend GroupLtd., have been working togethertowards a brand new website to belaunched this month.The Bridgend Group wanted to

develop a more customer friendly site,with vehicle search facilities, and afacility for users to sign up for updateson special offers.Alan McLaughlan, from the Bridgend

Group explained, “We sought proposalslocally & nationally. Early in thisprocess at became clear that Paligapwere the outstanding choice for us dueto their professionalism, creativity,value for money and locality. Havingworked with them in 2008 on our lastweb site I was confident that theywould deliver as promised.”To allow the Bridgend Group website

to be fully compatible with mobileplatforms Paligap has designed andbuilt a ‘responsive’ website. The siteadapts to suit the screen size of thedevice on which it is being viewedallowing the Bridgend Group to beavailable to all of their customerswherever, whenever and however theyare viewing the site. Lorna Gibson at Paligap, added, “We

were delighted to be commissioned forthe redesign of the Bridgend Groupwebsite, especially as this projectallowed us to launch our firstresponsive website. The team atBridgend were great to work with and ithas been a pleasure to continue ourrelationship with them.”

British Chambers of CommerceInternational Trade Conference

24th October 2012, BMA House, LondonTHE British Chambers of Commerce InternationalTrade Conference - Exporting is Good for Britain is anexclusive event to bring together high growthexporters from across the UK. The event will provide advice and insight into today’s export

challenges & opportunities and will enable attendees tomeet exporters from across the UK together withrepresentatives from international Chambers of Commerceand other trade organisations - in order to make connectionsand share experiences in the pursuit of export success.

The programme will include top-flight political personalities,business leaders and opinion-formers from across thecountry. The event is part of the BCC’s “Business is Good forBritain” campaign which celebrates the role of businessesof all sizes in delivering growth, jobs and success across theUK. The high profile nature of this event will make it one ofthe leading international trade conferences in 2012.For full details of the speakers and to book your place visit;

www.bccexport.co.uk

Celebrating 65 yearsin the business


Vattenfall Wind Power Delivering Local OpportunitiesVATTENFALL is proud to be a partnerof the Ayrshire Chamber of Commerceand has enjoyed the support of thechamber and local businesses overmany years.

As a leading European energy companywe operate a mix of onshore & offshorewind farms, we are active in wind farmconstruction and with more developedsites in the pipeline we hope to become ahousehold name. To complement ouractivities in wind energy we have a base inEdinburgh which focuses on wave & tidaltechnologies. We have a policy of workingwith companies and agencies local to ourprojects to help them take advantage ofbusiness opportunities in the competitivemarket of renewable energy.

In addition to those sites recentlyconsented and those awaiting planningdecisions Vattenfall is taking forward theproposal to develop a wind farm at SouthKyle. The site is within Forestry to the eastof Dalmellington. We have a track record ofcontracting with businesses in Scotlandeven when building offshore structures.Businesses local to South Kyle can learnmore in the next few months as we visitindividual companies and hold events to

inform people of the skills & expertise weneed.

It is our intention to ensure that theSouth Kyle Wind Farm maximises the localeconomic benefits it can offer and that ourapproach to project procurement andinvestment supports local businesses toenter and proposer in the renewable energyand green jobs sector – both of which areemerging high growth industries.

So far we have:•Undertaken research so we can register

what skills are currently available in thearea that could be used in thedevelopment.

•Began to investigate how we might beable to go further – might it be possible tobring new manufacturing opportunities tothe area, and new skills and trainingopportunities for local people, tying in withevolving low carbon work in the area? Thiscould range from energy efficiency to awide range of renewable technologyprojects.

We will be hosting a stand at the AyrshireConnections Exhibition on Tuesday 9thOctober and would urge any local businessthat are interested in exploringopportunities to work with Vattenfall tocome along and meet the team.

Company registration is now open.Register now to ensure that your companyis notified of all relevant opportunities.Further events will be hosted in the futureand all relevant companies will be invitedto participate.

Please visit our website and click on‘what’s your opinion?’ to register at:www.vattenfall.co.uk/en/south-kyle.htmor contact Joanne Hutchinson via tel:01434 611313 or via email at:[email protected]


BUDDING entrepreneurs from KilmarnockCollege are set to spark business successas part of a unique programme being runin association with the EntrepreneurialSpark West Coast Hatchery.

The innovative new scheme will allow 45students to gain qualifications and realwork experience through exposure to anentrepreneurial environment by assistingChiclets – up-and-coming business stars atthe Hatchery – with various projects.

Known as Oxygen (or Step intoEnterprise), the programme will seestudents aged 16-24 complete 192 hoursof learning at Kilmarnock College and 192

of work experience at the Hatchery in orderto stimulate progression opportunities andassist them in moving forward into full-timecollege courses, modern apprenticeshipsor other wage subsidy opportunities.

Entrepreneurial Spark is a socialenterprise set up to support to start-upbusinesses, and the West Coast Hatcheryhas been established to supportentrepreneurs in Ayrshire.

Jim Duffy, Founder and Chief ExecutiveOptimist of Entrepreneurial Spark, believesthe Oxygen project will identify a new batchof Ayrshire entrepreneurial talent byinspiring students and helping them

develop the skills required for businesssuccess. He said: “Kilmarnock College –and Principal Heather Dunk in particular –deserves huge credit for being trulyentrepreneurial in leading the way todevelop a progressive framework that willengage with young people and instil inthem real hope for the future. It has neverbeen more challenging for young people toget jobs and start businesses, but thisground-breaking Ayrshire programme willput young people and start-up businessesin the same space. The energy displayedby people at the Hatchery is inspiring andaddictive, and by sparking off the studentswho knows where it could lead – it’s allabout creating a sense of ambition. I willpersonally be involved in Oxygen as I havea top-secret project that I would like thestudents to help me research, investigate,plan and bring to fruition.”

Kilmarnock College is working inpartnership with East Ayrshire Council todevelop a joined-up approach to tackleyouth unemployment. The Oxygen project,which is part of the New College LearningProgramme funded by Skills DevelopmentScotland (SDS), is just one of a number ofinitiatives currently underway.

Heather Dunk, Principal at KilmarnockCollege, said: “I can’t thank Jim and histeam Entrepreneurial Spark enough fortheir support in helping to bring the Oxygenproject to life. I’m extremely excited thatyoung people from the College will have thechance to shine in an environment such asthe Hatchery and look forward to hearingall of their fantastic success in assistingthe Chiclets’ businesses. This project is afantastic opportunity for the developmentof the future workforce in Ayrshire and Ihope it could be the catalyst for some ofour students to take the first steps towardsstarting their own businesses.”

For further information on how to Stepinto Enterprise through the Oxygenprogramme at Kilmarnock College pleasecall Learner Services on 01563 495049 orvisit www.kilmarnock.ac.uk

OXYGEN FORENTERPRISE

Dealing with the nasty monkey!DR DORA Withers from West of Scotland PsychologicalServices is an advocate of making small changes toyour attitude and actions to get the life you really want.

Dora explains, “Researchers at Manchester andEdinburgh Universities found that the way patients anddoctors react to psychological problems could be behindthe rise in suicide rates in Scotland – the so-called‘Scottish effect’. Using medication to treat the symptomsrather than tackling the cause of depression or anxiety maynot be most effective.”

West of Scotland Psychological Services use psychologicaltherapies, or talking therapies, to help treat the causes ofdepression, anxiety, addiction etc . Dora continues, “The mosteffective, brief and proven treatment is Cognitive BehaviouralTherapy (CBT). It works thus, first identify the problemstatement, for example, “I am worthless”, let’s call this

statement the nasty monkey. How does this statementwork? You see a job you like and think I can do this, nastymonkey jumps in ‘oh no you can’t. Your mind immediatelygoes to work links up all the other failed interviews and yougear yourself up for failure. Frankly you say, I am no goodat interviews, so what is the point? What CBT does is helpto firstly to expose the nasty monkey, secondly challengeit, thirdly rewrite it and give you ways to deal with it for thefuture because it will return and when it does CBT hasequipped you to deal with it. Help is at hand, it is brief,local and effective – no waiting list.”

For more information on CBT and other talking therapiescontact Dora on 01292 477711 West of ScotlandPsychological Services WOSPS or email [email protected] can self-refer or ask your GP for referral.

REAL Time Information (RTI) willstart to be introduced from April2013 and by October 2013 it will bemandatory for all employers to processPAYE data using the new system. Makesure your business stays up to date andis ready to comply with the upcomingchanges in legislation.

With the introduction of Real Time Information(RTI) fast approaching, now is the time to makesure the information you hold about youremployees is correct.

It’s important to make sure your data isaccurate. HMRC state that over 80% of dataquality problems are caused by holding incorrectinformation about an employee’s name, date ofbirth or National Insurance number. Under PAYEReal Time Information, the information that yousubmit to HMRC every time you pay youremployees is matched against records HMRCstore on their National Insurance and PAYEService (NPS). If the records you submit don'tmatch, you may trigger creating duplicate orinaccurate records which may result in incorrecttax calculations or HMRC compliance checks.To make sure you have the correct details foryour employees, wherever possible check theinformation you need from an official source;HMRC or Department for Work and Pensionsdocumentation, a passport, a birth certificate.


REFLECTING on your achievements in life cansometimes lead you to question whether there’s

more to life than this? Kevin Grant, Operations Manager for FedEx,

Glasgow Airport, was leading a relatively successfullife, both at home and at work, but he wasn’tfeeling fulfilled and had a feeling he could getmore from life. Having worked with highlymotivated and driven Chamber member StevieKidd in the past, he turned to him for advice.Stevie had many years training in helping others to

exceed their limitations and specialises in NeuroLinguistic Programming, better known as NLP. After

enrolling on a NLP Business Practitioner Course, Kevinhas noticed the marked changes in his outlook on life.

Kevin says, “I was amazed at how simple logic and techniques were and

they were effective instantly. The techniques used helped me feel that anything wasachievable. I have improved my relationships with my team and as a result we all performbetter. This is largely down to improved communication and awareness of issues affectingmorale and am therefore better positioned to manage effectively.”

www.steviekiddnlp.com

Get energisedFANCY turning the weather into energy for your home? In Scotland it’s notuncommon to see four seasons in one day – but did you know no matter whatthe conditions it can always be a great source of energy for your home?

Renewables systems help keep your home energy efficient, helping you forecast majorsavings. And specialists at the Energy Saving Trust are on hand to guide you through theprocess – offering free, impartial advice on what will work for you and your home.

With interest-free loans (up to £10,000 provided by the Scottish Government) and grantsof up to £1,250 for heat generating systems – what are you waiting for? Contact your localEnergy Saving Scotland advice centre now: 0800 51 2012 or visit: http://bit.ly/RcP3E1

Are you ready forReal TimeInformation?

There’s

more to

life thanthis


Great Prospects forpeople with autismAN estimated 50,000 Scots have autism,a lifelong developmental disability thataffects how a person communicates with,and relates to, other people, and how theymake sense of the world around them.While some people with autism require alifetime of care, specialist recruitmentservice Prospects, has seen a year on yearincrease in approaches from blue chiporganisations. Many are now recognisingthat some of the classic traits of autism –including excellent memory, reliability,persistence and attention to detail arealso the attributes of the ‘ideal employee’.

Prospects estimate that hundreds ofthousands of Scots with autism fall into the‘high functioning’ category. A largeproportion has impressive academicqualifications, but can find the transitionfrom higher education to the workplace achallenge. Currently only 12% of thoseindividuals are in paid employment.

The recruitment agency works with peoplewith autism by matching their qualificationsand interests to companies specialising inthat area. Successes rate in a range ofdiverse areas, including informationtechnology, the care sector, retail and

banking. More than 80% of clients placedinto paid employment by Prospects haveremained in their role in the long term.

Kieran Pentland, a consultant withProspects, has Asperger syndrome. Hesays, “It’s a common misconception thatpeople with autism are withdrawn. I’m alively, outgoing person, it’s a real buzz tosupport client’s into a role they love. I’mliving proof that you can have a great careerand autism, the two are definitely notmutually exclusive. When you have autismyour job is never just a job, it’s your life andyour passion. It’s great from an employer’spoint of view to have talented people withenthusiasm, and all that’s required is thatthe person with autism receives the rightsupport from time to time. Employers areoften surprised to learn that simpleadjustments, such as flexible working oraccess to a ‘quiet room’ where you cangather your thoughts can help someonewith autism flourish at work.”

Prospects is increasing its volume ofconsultancy work on behalf of businessescommitted to giving better support toemployees with autism, including LloydsTSB, First Bus and the Scottish PrisonService.

If you’re an employer and want to find outmore about Prospects call: 0141 248 1725, email [email protected] or visit the NASwebsite www.autism.org.uk/prospects

Designs onan AwardDESIGNERS from Kitchens by J.S.Geddes havebeen short-listed for the 2012 KBSA Designerof the Year Awards awarded by the nationaltrade organisation, the ‘Kitchen Bathroom andBedroom Specialist Association’.

Shaun Dunbar is a finalist in the KBB KitchenDesigner of the year, the only candidate in hiscategory to have more than one of his designssubmitted into the final, and Felicity Lipka is a finalistin the KBB Young Designer of the year award.

The winners will be announced at the KBSA AGMon 12th September. Shaun & Felicity will also havethe opportunity to become an overall winner ifselected from all the design category winners tobecome the KBSA Designer of the Year. This awardis sponsored by top appliance manufacturer V-ZUGand the prize includes a two day trip to Switzerland.

KBSA CEO Graham Ball said: “KBSA members offeroutstanding professionalism and expertise and theseawards provide us with an opportunity to recogniseand reward the high standards of design that theyachieve. It is part of our remit to drive up standardsand promote best practice and these awards are animportant part of this strategy.”

Kitchens by J.S.Geddes was established in 1984and has been awarded the prestige ‘U.K Kitchen Retailer of the Year 2012.’ Managing

Director Jim Geddes believes that the companysuccess is based on the staff. “We have a passionateand committed team who strive to be the best.”

Ayrshire Aerospacebusiness flying highINTER-TEC Services Limited, anestablished aerospace design,certification and analysis consultancyin Prestwick, is on target to furtherexpand its customer base globally,increase staff numbers and grow itscontribution significantly to the localeconomy. Having experienced adifficult few years due the economicdownturn, the company is set for anexciting year.

Following a major strategy review,Inter-Tec has added significantly toits services by offering the EuropeanAviation certification, EASA Part 21Subpart J Design OrganisationApproval, reinforcing its capability tocertify design and modifications tomake aircrafts airworthy in Europe.This, in addition to its innovativework within the general aerospacemarkets, has strengthened Inter-Tec’s position as a complete one-stop consultancy.

Fred Gorrie, Managing Directorsays, “This enhances our reputation

in the sector as a highly competentprovider of design and certificationservices. I am confident it will helpfuel growth in the business and leadto additional engineering jobs in thearea.”

In addition to increasing itsdomestic and European markets,Inter-Tec is now on target to expandwithin the growing Middle East andAsian markets, with the potential forestablishing offices in Asia in thenext 3 to 5 years. The companyhopes to boost the Ayrshireeconomy by doubling the number ofhighly skilled positions over the next3 years as well as employing staffabroad. To support this growth, theyare moving to bigger offices withinthe Aerospace Park in Prestwick thisyear.

Fred concludes, “We look forwardwith optimism to the businessopportunities that lie ahead and toplaying a small part to ensure thefuture prosperity of the Aerospaceand Defence sector in Scotland.”


Graduating toEmploymentAYRSHIRE Chamber of Commerce is at the centre of a newinitiative aimed at getting graduates into employment. TheGraduate Employment Incentive Programme is the result ofa joint initiative between the Scottish Government andScottish Chambers of Commerce and will providebusinesses with a substantial financial incentive to recruita graduate into a permanent position.

Welcoming the new scheme, Ayrshire Chamber of CommerceChief Executive, Val Russell, said: “I am delighted that Ayrshire hasbeen selected as one of the pilot regions for an exciting initiativeaimed at getting local graduates into employment. We are all tooaware of the effects that the recession has had in terms of theemployment prospects for graduates, with far too many remainingeither unemployed or underemployed. This is a waste of talent,since these highly educated young people possess the kind of skillsthat will be needed to help businesses drive our economy forwardtowards growth. That is why Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce willwork with local graduates and local employers to help matchgraduates with the businesses that need those skills most. Ourefforts will be focussed on Ayrshire’s small and micro businesses,

where the positive contribution that our talented and enthusiasticgraduates can make will be felt most. It is great news that the needsof local graduates have been recognised by the Scottish Governmentthrough the creation of this scheme and Ayrshire Chamber ofCommerce is a committed partner in its delivery. Our aim is to makea real and tangible difference in helping local graduates to find theright job.”

The Scottish Government’s Minister for Youth Employment, AngelaConstance MSP, said: "We are committed to tackling youthunemployment across the board and have already put substantialfunding into improving the prospects of our young people. In timesof economic difficulty, it is young people who can suffer the most.When job opportunities are scarce, employers tend to turn to peoplewith more experience. While figures on graduate destinationsshowed that 90.4 per cent from Scottish institutions found work orfurthered their study, we are aware that many have been unable tofind a permanent post. This announcement will open up newopportunities for graduates in Ayrshire, and will also enable manyof our smaller firms to harness the potential of our talented youngpeople and build up their businesses using their skills and ability."

Making a splash with800th member

LOCAL businessman Liam Bolton ismaking waves in the home improvementsmarket, as he rebrands his business fromLB Bathrooms to Bolton Interiors.

Liam Bolton of Bolton Interiors, based inPrestwick, received a £1000 loan fromPrince’s Trust Youth Business Scotland(PTYBS), a £500 marketing grant fromSouth Ayrshire Council and as a new PTYBSstart-up business, one year’s freemembership to Ayrshire Chamber ofCommerce courtesy of South AyrshireCouncil, making his business the 800thmember of the Chamber.

Ayrshire Chamber CEO, Val Russell, said“As a panel member for PTYBS Ayrshire, Iam always impressed by the diversity andenthusiasm of the new start businesseswe see and we have always offered areduced membership for their first year. Iapplaud South Ayrshire for sponsoring thismembership in recognition of the supportthese new businesses can access viamembership of Ayrshire Chamber. We weredelighted to realise that Liam was our800th member and we look forward tosupporting him in growing his business.With 800 members Ayrshire is the largestnon-city centre Chamber in Scotland, astatistic we are justifiably proud of!”

David R. Campbell CBE RegionalChairman, Prince’s Trust Youth BusinessScotland commented, “I believe this is anexcellent example of our organisation,working together with the Chamber ofCommerce and the local authority toensure that any new business in Ayrshiregets the best possible start.

Val Russell and her team are to becongratulated on reaching this significantmilestone. For any business representativeorganisation to achieve a membership of800 members in the current economicclimate is indeed significant and I am

absolutely delighted that the 800thmember of Ayrshire Chamber of Commerceis a Prince’s Trust Youth Business Scotlandfunded new business in Ayrshire.”

South Ayrshire Council’s Councillor JohnHampton helped present Liam with hisaccolade. He said: “It’s inspiring to seeyoung people starting and growingbusinesses, particularly in these difficulteconomic times. I am delighted that theCouncil – working in partnership withPTYBS and Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce– can help nurture our next generation ofentrepreneurs. Liam is a great example tous all and I hope the benefits of hisinvolvement with the Chamber will alsoinspire others to come on board and further

enhance what is now the largest non-citycentre Chamber in Scotland. By continuing towork together, we can all help grow our localeconomy.”

With the support provided, Liam hasplanned a complete rebrand of his business,including business cards, vehicle livery,uniforms and a website.

Liam said, “Up until now my marketing hasbeen through word of mouth from existingcustomers. This support has meant that I canput in place the new branding, in one fellswoop rather than bit by bit, and reach newcustomers.”

Liam’s new website launches soon atwww.boltoninteriors.co.uk

NHS Ayrshire & Arran’s Healthy WorkingLives team held a Spring AwardsCeremony on to recognise and celebratethe most recent Healthy Working LivesAward winners from across Ayrshire.

The Awards recognise good practice in safetymanagement and reward innovative and excitingstaff initiatives encouraging health improvement. Congratulations to;

Bronze Award winners - East Ayrshire Council,NATS Prestwick CentreSilver Award winners - The Ayrshire Hospice,

Ayrshire Housing, Jobcentre Plus ADGI, MagnoxLimited – Hunterston A Site, North AyrshireWomen’s AidGold Award winners - Kilmarnock Benefit

CentreMental Health Commendation Award winners

- North Ayrshire Women’s Aid

The next awards ceremony will take placeduring the Healthy Working Lives AnnualConference on 13th September with a HealthyWorking Lives Bronze Portfolio Training sessionfor workplaces on 16th October. Workplacesinterested in finding out more about the freeservices Healthy Working Lives provide, trainingand events should call 01292 885855 and askto speak to a member of the team or email

[email protected]

NOT sure if networking works? Well threeof our Ayrshire businesses are totallyconvinced. Eileen Auld of Well ConnectedLife, Tuathal Breheny of Menzies Hotel,Irvine and Ann Cromack of IKATphotography often work together to createthe bigger picture! All three met throughAyrshire Chamber’s networking events.Eileen now uses Menzies Hotel for givingpresentations, Leadership Days and yogaweekends. Ann has become the officialphotographer for these “well connecting”events and the Menzies Hotelmanagement have made Eileen, herclients and guests feel very much athome.

Eileen said, “Building a business requiresmany essential components. A majorconsideration in my business is to be able to

work with otherbusiness people youcan rely on. Chambernetworking has givenme this with Tuathaland Ann.”

When beginning abusiness relationshipit is good to have asense that therelationship is goingto be a sustainablelong term one.Mutually beneficial isthe phrase. In thecase of Eileen,Tuathal and Ann, wecan see the benefits in the form of increasedfootfall at the Hotel, a widening of everyone’sdata base as well as an increase in income for

all three members. So, does networking work?It certainly does… especially when using theChamber Networking events!


Our Networking Works

Join the Ayrshire companiesalready achieving healthyworkplace awards


Girvan’s field of dreams NESTLÉ Girvan and Girvan Academyhave been developing 7 acres of unusedland surrounding the factory into anEducational Biodiversity Site.

The former landfill site, used for the past20 years as grazing for rescued horses,underwent an environmental study toidentify species of plants and wildlife.Expert recommendations were made toenhance, sustain and encourage new floraand fauna, whilst still allowing for amanaged grazing programme. The teamhas been advised on planting, groundworks and conservation by their gardeningcontractor, The Conservation Volunteersand The Invertebrate Trust.

A team of employees worked closely withthe school, surveying nature and startingto execute the various improvementexercises, the first of which was planting850 indigenous broad leafed trees,followed with a wildflower meadow,specifically aimed at increasing thenumbers and varieties of butterflies visitingthe area. Since April 2012 employees and

pupils have been participating in the UKButterfly Monitoring Scheme.

As word has spread about the efforts,local businesses have volunteeredmaterials, time and expertise to help rollout the plans. A portacabin has beeninstalled onsite to use as a classroom andvolunteers have hosted rural skills displaysin fencing and dry stone dyking.

The school Head Teacher, Allan Rattray,has identified potential use for learning atthe site for; science, biology, mathematics,PE, and art. The pupils will design andshape what it becomes and what itincorporates in the future with suggestionsincluding bird boxes, a bird hide, hedgehogboxes, and an organic musical instrumenttrail.

Nestlé Girvan has also made aninvaluable contact through sponsoring theAyrshire Business Award for‘Environmental Performance’. They haveforged a friendship with the 2011 winner,Dundonald Links, participating in cross sitevisits, sharing ideas, expertise and advice.

Nestlé are committed to health and

wellness and Nestlé Girvan intends toencourage Girvan Academy to utilise thesite in as many ways as possible andspend time being active outdoors. Infuture this may include using the site aspart of Duke of Edinburgh Awards and ifGirvan Academy can put the wheels inmotion (literally!) the plan is to have a cyclepath all the way to site from the school!The school have already received fundingto purchase the bicycles and are nowlooking to execute the plans for cyclepaths, a green and healthy way for thepupils and teachers to travel to the site,eliminating transport costs associated withhiring minibuses.

Nestle Girvan were delighted recently tohave the application passed by SouthAyrshire Council’s planning department tochange the designation of the land from‘vacant’ to ‘educational biodiversity site’.Official recognition of their ‘field ofdreams’!

To find out more Emma Gilchrist atNestle Girvan on 01465 [email protected]

Sleekandmobile

WITH mobile phones becoming animportant communication andsales channel, Sleek Media areexcited to integrate new mobiledesign tools into the Sleek Mediaservices.

David Wilkinson explains, “Customersare accessing websites from their smartphones so it is vital to have a mobile

version of your site that is simple,elegant and informative.

“The Sleek Media approach is to lookfor situations where their marketingexpertise might be applied to bringabout additional added value to currentbusiness activities.”

To find out more view the Chambermagazine insert or call: 01292 286246.


LESS than 72 hours after pickingup seven Scottish Hotel Awards,the team at Auchrannie Resort,Arran, was celebrating again withthe news of a regional “ScottishThistle Award” win.

The Scottish Thistle Awards,Scotland’s flagship tourist awards,are designed to discover andcelebrate excellence and innovationwithin the Scottish tourism industry.Auchrannie were winners for ScotlandSouth West region in the “TourismEntrepreneur Award”. Judges werelooking for a dynamic business witha track record in creating newproducts and services andharnessing an understanding of theircustomers to develop a truly excitingand innovative enterprise.

The award recognises theoutstanding contribution to tourism on Arranthat Iain & Linda Johnston together withRonnie Mann (Development and FinanceDirector) have made over the last 23 yearsand in more recent year the role that RichardSmall (General manager) has played as a keyinnovator. Commenting on the news, groupdirector Linda said “These awards arefantastic recognition for the hard work that theentire team have put in over many years. Weare very excited about progressing to thenational finals, although are aware we will beup against some very high calibre

competition”. Richard added "Only businesses at the very

top of their game make it as far as the finalsso we are ecstatic to have won the regionalheats”.

Auchrannie are no strangers to the ThistleAwards, having previously won the ‘ScotlandYear Round’ award in 2004. This year’s finalwill take place on November 9th andAuchrannie will be up against the regionalwinners from the Central Scotland South East,Highlands and the North East & Tayside intheir category.

Jubilations on Arran

AWARD WINNERS: Richard Small (GeneralManager) and David Johnston (Assistant Manager)with the winners’ Caithness glass trophy

Stellar shortlisted for CCA ExcellenceAwards 2012CCA, the leading independent authority oncontact centre strategies and operations,announced the shortlist for CCA ExcellenceAwards 2012 in which Stellar have beennominated in the category of BestOutsourcing Partnership.

CCA Excellence Awards programme isdesigned to recognise achievements ofindividuals and organisations committed todelivering outstanding customer service. TheExcellence Awards is the most respected andsought-after programme, unique through itspeer group judging process. The judging paneland Awards Committee include professionalsfrom all sectors, and senior executives withwide-ranging experience in customer contactcentres.

Michael Lumsden, Stellar’s European CEO,commented, “We are delighted to beshortlisted for this award which recognisesStellar and ADMS Europe’s long term,strategic alliance based on achieving serviceexcellence through treating customers fairly.We both benefit from a shared vision of thecustomer journey and a contractualunderstanding of the investment, resourceand commitment each brings to thatpartnership in developing and establishingquality customer interactions.”


Entrepreneurial-Spark® Ayrshireis open for business….IN January of this year, Entrepreneurial-Spark® [ESpark] opened its doors inGlasgow in Sir William Haughey’s HQ. Notto be outdone, Sir Tom Hunter, who seededESpark with start-up cash quickly movedto secure a Hatchery for Ayrshire. Butwhat’s it all about?

Starting a business has never been sotough with entrepreneurs and enterprisingpeople working from home, coffee shopsand libraries. Access to funding isconstricted, while red tape has grown. JimDuffy, Founder of ESpark conducted someglobal research on what was needed tokick start more entrepreneurs with higher

ambition and what vehicle was needed toget them to their first birthday. Jim visitedBoston and looked at Chile, Germany andEngland for inspiration.

The result was ESpark: EntrepreneurialEnablement for self-starters based in aphysical space – a Hatchery. Traditionalincubators have become expensiveserviced office space. Start-ups needed anew environment to hatch their ideas andfledgling businesses into viable entities.Each Hatchery provides free desks, IT,telephony, meeting rooms, event space,printing and broadband. Hatcheryoccupants or ‘chiclets’ work in a co-workingand collaborative environment, where they

are exposed to ideation techniques, metricsetting and outside speakers. Everythingis geared towards accelerating theirforward progress…

Ayrshire’s Hatchery has been provided bySir Tom and part funded by the threeAyrshire Councils. It opened it doors inJune of this year and has 40 start-upshoused within it. ESpark holds quarterlyevents – Hatchery Hits the Street. Its nextevent will be held at Ayr Racecourse onFriday 19th October. All welcome…

For more information, contact:[email protected]

THE RNLI’s new lifeboat forLargs, the RA Wilson, wasofficially launched on 23June. Carolyn Elder, directorof Largs Yacht Haven,performed the namingceremony by pouring a 25year old malt whisky from aquaich over the Atlantic 85inshore lifeboat.

Robert Amory Wilson, thebenefactor, was a charteredaccountant who served withthe Royal Navy during theSecond World War reachingthe rank of Lt Commander. Hecontinued his maritime interestby owning a succession ofyachts and dinghies. Hecreated a trust by deed in1999 before passing away in2000. The RNLI are grateful tothe trustees for their generousbequest to enable thepurchase of this new lifeboat.

Largs Yacht Haven supportsthe RNLI through theAmbassador scheme andthrough local fundraisingevents. Several of the marinastaff serve on the Largslifeboat crew with the assistantmanager, Dave Hewitt, servingas engineer and helmsman.www.yachthavens.com

Investmentfor Food &Drink SectorRURAL Affairs Secretary RichardLochhead and Minister for YouthEmployment, Angela Constance, joinedforces at the Royal Highland Show tolaunch the Skills Investment Plan thathas been developed to support thegrowth of one of the most importantsectors in the Scottish Economy.

The Scotland Food & Drink SkillsAcademy intends to work closely withregional food groups/forums and providers,to look at the establishment of a regionaldelivery model for the provision of educationand training. The intention is to ensure thatenterprises of all sizes, from farm shops andsmall local/rural producers to largeremployers have access to the highest qualitytraining provision, at the most economiccost, across a wide range of topics designedto enable business growth and development.

The Academy’s focus is clear and simple –ensuring relevant and cost effective trainingfor staff and managers is available to helpbusinesses achieve their organisationalobjectives through knowledgeable, skilledand motivated employees.

The Academy team, which has over 55years experience of corporate training andstaff development, has been working acrossScotland to help employers link their peopledevelopment/training plans to their businessgoals and would be delighted to discuss howour Management & Leadership signpostingservice or our fully funded Workplace SkillsAnalysis service could benefit your company.

For more information on the role of theAcademy visit our web site www.sfd-skillsacademy.co.uk or contact uson [email protected] to arrangefor a member of the team to give you a call.

New lifeboatfor Largs


Edu

cati

on

Link

s

GRANGE Academy’s new S4 studentslooked ahead as they attended anevent in school to help them considerfuture career paths.Young people were able to meet with

local employers and representatives

offering advice onemployment and trainingin hospitality andtourism; health and lifesciences; professionaland public services; and manufacturing andtrades. Also on offer werehands-on workshopsgiving pupils the chanceto explore job optionsfurther.Thanks to the following

for giving up their time;Kilmarnock College, LandEngineering, Smillie &

Cuthbertson, EDF Energy,Keppie Design, IDS&Co., NHS, SAFC,Kilmarnock Smile Studio, GalleonCentre, EAC Leisure Development,Centrestage, Robert Burns BirthplaceMuseum, GPIA, Dundonald Links,Cookschool Scotland.

Teacher Stuart Edgar organised theevent as part of Grange Academy’sbusiness enterprise drive to help makeschool leavers ready for the world ofwork. Fellow organisers were theCouncil’s Enterprise Co-ordinator, JaniceMcGoldrick and Claire Baird of AyrshireChamber of Commerce and Industry.Councillor Stephanie Primrose,

Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning,said: “We very much appreciated all thecompany representatives giving theirtime to highlight the differentopportunities in these sectors to ouryoung people.“It is important that school leavers

are aware of the range of careers andtraining on offer as they move throughsecondary school and make subjectchoices which will affect future careeroptions”.

Irvine Royal Academy builds business linksFOLLOWING a programme of work inthe school looking at recyclingprocesses, some 1st year pupils hadthe opportunity to visit Ardagh Glassto experience the processes involvedin the production of glass bottles forcommercial use. Representativesfrom Ardagh Glass visited the schooland delivered a presentation to S1 onthe work carried out at the factory.Meanwhile S2 took part in group

activities and debates surrounding theadvantages and disadvantages of allmethods of electricity production, withscientists and engineers from Magnox.By engaging in a ‘Monopoly’ inspiredgame, entitled Future Generations,students were tasked with generatingrevenue from the building of powerstations and/or wind farms, taking intoaccount generation capacity and carbonproduction.S3 Intermediate1 biology students

visited Douglas Boatman at Scotplants,in Beith, where they were introduced to avariety of artificial propagation methods,

including taking cuttings. The studentswill be given the opportunity to return inthe autumn to see how their cuttings areprogressing. Douglas also worked with agroup of S3 students to give advice on aschool based gardening project.Kevin Pollock, an Epidemiologist

working with the NHS, delivered a sessionto S4 Intermediate1 Biology students onthe uses and applications of antibiotics.This session gave the students a lot offood for thought with regards futureapplications of these ‘wonder drugs’.Jim McGarvie from Nuclear Medicine

NHS, presented to S3 Physics studentsabout nuclear radiation and theequipment used in Crosshouse Hospitalin the nuclear medicine department. Jimbrought along a variety of equipment forstudents to see and carried out a smallexperiment.

Dr. Bjoern Seitz, a senior lecturer fromGlasgow University, came to speak toSenior Physics students about the use ofnuclear radiation within the health caresector. He spoke about different types ofionising radiations and their use in thetreatment of cancer, whilst also giving aninsight into current research in thisparticular field.

Bright futures ahead at Grange Academy

“WHEN I was at McKenzieBakers for work experience Iworked in the shop and thebakery. I met new peopleand I’d rather be here than

school. Cheesy’s a top guy!”said Dempsey.

Kirsti added, “I enjoyed all thedifferent tasks I was given,especially working in the bakery.”


Work E

xperie

nceKirsti and Dempsey fromGarnock Academy atMacKenzie Bakers

Kayleigh from KilwinningAcademy at Abbeyfield House, Irvine

“WE have participated in thework experience programmefor a number of years. Todate it has been verysuccessful.

“Residents enjoy having ayoung person working with themand discussing everyday events.

A few of the pupils have gone onto work at weekends with us.

“We will be happy to takefurther students next year andcontinue our support of thisvaluable part of the schoolcurriculum.”

Patricia Morrison, Manager, Abbeyfield House.

Conor from Queen Margaret Academy at the Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce“ON the 21st to the 25th ofMay, I was on work experienceat the Ayrshire Chamber ofCommerce.

“On Monday I made up someChamber packs, visited ASDAwith Gill and attended a meetingwith Claire. Tuesday I visited AyrAcademy with Gill, booked someevents with Yvonne and updatedWorkIt with Helen Laverie.

On Wednesday and Thursday Iwas at the Scottish Chamber of

Commerce. Wednesday I was at Kirkcaldy

at a meeting and Thursday I wasdown at Inverclyde at John WattCollege. Friday I was back atAyrshire Chamber and attended amember visit with Helen McBride.

“Overall this has been anamazing experience and I havereally enjoyed it.”

ConorQueen Margaret Academy

George from Garnock Academyat Kilbirnie Dental Centre

STACEY Gilmour, Practice Manager said,“I love the work experience programmeand always look forward to the pupils

coming. They either leave saying"Dentistry is definitely not forme" or "I love dentistry and can’twait to go to university".

“I think it’s important for allcompanies to take part as thesepupils are the workforce of thefuture. Our staff enjoys teaching thepupils the good and the bad partsof the job and about theresponsibility involved. When youget someone as interested asGeorge has been this year it’s apleasure. We will continue to

support the programme and willlook forward to next year!”

George added, “I believe workexperience is very beneficialthrough my own experience atKilbirnie Dental Centre. Theywelcomed me with open arms andtaught me many interesting factswhich furthered my interest indentistry.

“I really enjoyed working with thedentist and dental staff. I trulyrecommend work experience if youget the chance.”


THE Board of Directors wishes to take this opportunity to welcome these companies on recentlyjoining Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Member to members discounts are highlighted.

Abacus Valves International LtdBlock 4 Riverside PlaceKilbirnie, KA25 7EWContact: Scott GrahamPhone: 01505 681777www.abacusvalves.comManufacture check valves

Adam Davey Consulting69 Watermill AvenueKirkintilloch, G66 5ELContact: Adam DaveyPhone: 0141 776 3677www.daveyconsulting.co.ukBusiness & training consultant

Affinity Financial Advice55 Marr DriveTroon, KA10 6PPContact: Shona BarrPhone: 08458381465www.affinityifa.co.ukFinancial Services

All Mixed Up Cakes17 Kersland GaitStewarton, KA3 5HNContact: Karen BoothPhone: 07581 210417www.allmixedupcakes.co.ukCatering for private parties

Arbonne International17 Rumford PlaceKilmarnock, KA3 6FHContact: Anne HarrisonPhone: 07554 366851

www.anneharrison.myarbonne.co.ukBeauty products

REFERRED BY LAH Travel

Archway Consultants (UK) LtdGlencrestAyr RoadShawsburnLarkhall, ML9 2TZContact: Jayne StrangPhone: 01698889326www.archwayconsultants.comFood Safety and Health & Safety

Ayrshire Heating & Gas ServicesUnit 8a

Mayfield Industrial EstateGalston Road Hurlford

Contact: Douglas Paterson Phone: 01563 256752www.ayrshireheating.co.ukGas & heating engineers

REFERRED BY The Referral Exchange

Ayrshire Plasterers Services Ltd99 Briarhill RoadPrestwick, KA9 1HZ

Contact: Roddy MacDonaldPhone: 01292 475117

www.ayrshireplastering.co.ukPlasterers

REFERRED BY The Referral Exchange

Ayrshire Signs & GraphicsUnit 6 Block 5Moorfield Industrial EstateKilmarnock, KA2 0DPContact: Johnathan WallacePhone: 01563 521720www.signsayrshire.co.ukDesign manufacture & installation ofsignage

Bay StoresWhiting BayIsle of Arran, KA27 8PZContact: Barry MigginPhone: 01770 [email protected] grocer & newsagent

Big Velvet Curtain18 Belfast QuayIrvine, KA12 8PRContact: Miche ClarkePhone: 07594 603683Bespoke entertainment

Break The Mould Furniture1c High StreetNewmilns, KA16 9EEContact: Stuart MutchPhone: 0784 287 6309www.breakthemouldfurniture.co.ukBespoke Designer Furniture

Bright Choice Cleaning & Supplies13 Annandale ViewKilmarnock, KA2 0ERContact: Lorrine MorranPhone: 01563 52562Cleaning Services

Buy2giveMarathon HouseDrybridge RoadDundonald, KA9 2BEContact: Ken RobbPhone: 01563 852253www.buy2give.co.ukManagement of the Buy2giveFundraising Card

Class CocktailsKirkland House12 Hunterston RoadWest Kilbride, KA23 9EXContact: Janet MartinPhone: 07707 873210www.classcocktails.comPersonal Cocktail Drinks Service

Clyde Media UK Ltd42 Loudoun CrescentKilwinning, KA13 6TSContact: Robert JacobsPhone: 07515445797www.clydemedia.co.ukVideo Production Company

Consolidated Carriers LtdCCL House22 Burnside PlaceTroon, KA10 6LZContact: Declan PenmanPhone: 0700 2407365www.ccl-logistics.comComplete logistics supermarket

Council of Voluntary Organisations EastAyrshire LtdBelford Mill16 Brewery RoadKilmarnock, KA1 3G2Contact: Fiona SkillingPhone: 01563 574000www.cvoea.co.ukThird sector infrastructure supportorganisation

CrumbsUnit 3, Burns Statue Arcade

Ayr, KA7 1SWContact: Ashley NicholsonPhone: 07989716577www.crumbs-ayr.co.uk

Cafe style cusine, outside catering &venue hire

DISCOUNT 10%

Digital Kitchens Factory OutletMosshill Industrial EstateBy Ayr, KA6 6BEContact: Craig BrysonPhone: 01292 738083www.digitalkitchens.co.ukBespoke kitchen design & supply

Dimension Bathroom Design Ltd15 Carnalea CourtGalston, KA4 8HYContact: Jim ScoullerPhone: 07808 588509Bathroom Design

GFB Buildings LtdGlen Farm

Mansefield RdNew Cumnock, KA18 4NRContact: Chris Simm Phone: 01290 332057www.gfbbuildings.co.uk

Supplier of Domestic & Industrial SteelBuildings

DISCOUNT Negotiable

Go Sync Business7 East Bowhouse Head

Girdle Toll Irvine, KA11 1PG

Contact: Julia McMurdie Phone: 01294 213285 www.gosync.co.uk

Admin & Business Support

REFERRED BY Stimuli Business Training Ltd

Hillhouse11 Hill StreetKilmarnock, KA3 1HAContact: Sarah HallPhone: 01563 523362www.hillhousecare.orgProvide free clothing for children

Images That Move7 York StreetAyr, KA8 8ANContact: Graham TaylorPhone: 07738866931Commercial Photographer


Innova Taxfree UK Ltd22 Sharpe AvenueDreghornIrvine, KA11 4BQContact: Christopher HarrowPhone: 07825 160439www.innovataxfree.comProviding tax-free shopping solutions &services

Kilmarnock Powder Coating ServicesLtd17 West Langlands StreetKilmarnock, KA1 2BLContact: Craig WallacePhone: 01563 542043www.kpcservices.co.ukShot blasting & Industrial Coatings

Kilmarnock Tennis Club10a Auchencar DriveKilmarnock, KA3 1PXContact: Iain MacleanPhone: 08452691936

www.kilmarnocktennisclub.comTennis Club

REFERRED BY The Waterpoint (West of Scotland Ltd)

Lauriston Hotel15 South Crescent RoadArdrossan, KA22 8EAContact: Phil Durrand Phone: 01294 463771

www.thelauristonhotel.co.ukHotel & Restaurant

REFERRED BY Entourage

Lely CentreDairy Automation LtdBraehead FarmKilmarnock, KA1 5LNContact: Gary LeitchPhone: 01563 823858www.lely.comRobotic milking company

Liscia Canine Boutique40 West Portland StreetTroon, KA10 6ABContact: HannahWaughPhone: 07867 804041www.liscia.co.ukDog accessories

Mandarin Duck Craft121 Main Street

West Kilbride, KA23 9ARContact: Amanda LuoPhone: 01294823754

www.mandarinduckuk.co.ukHandpainted textiles

REFERRED BY Stimuli Business Training Ltd

MS Accountancy ServicesWestburn HouseMcNee RoadPrestwick, KA9 2PBContact: Kenny StrangPhone: 01292 473833www.ayrshirecheapaccountants.co.ukAccountancy Services

NS Lockhart71 King StreetKilmarnock, KA1 1PTCOntact: Niels LockhartPhone: 01563 531424Solicitors on all services

Orr Business ServicesThistledome 6 Springvale RoadAyr, KA7 2SHContact: Nick OrrPhone: 07817 890407www.orrbs.co.ukSales & marketing consultancy

RFM21 Forbes PlacePaisley, PA1 1UTContact: Russell FergusonPhone: 0141 2260400www.rfm.co.ukChartered marketers

See Saw Creative LtdRowallan Castle Golf ClubKilmarnock, KA3 2LPContact: Maurice HyndsPhone: 01563 573393www.seesawcreative.co.ukGraphic design, branding, marketingmaterials, websites

Shawlands Park HotelAyr RoadNR Larkhall, ML9 2TZContact: Debbie TempletonPhone: 01698 791111www.shawlandshotel.co.ukHotel & restaurant

Shimmer 40 Dalrymple StreetGirvan, KA26 9UKContact: Gillian BlackPhone: 01465 714412www.blackshimmer.co.ukGift Shops

Shooze With Sole5 Bank Street

Kilmarnock, KA1 1HAContact: Donna Read Phone: 01292 281182

www.shoozewithsole.co.ukRetailer of children & ladies footwear

DISCOUNT 10%

South West Scotland Community Justice AuthoritySovereign HouseSuite 6 Academy RoadIrvine, KA12 8RLContact: Justina MurrayPhone: 01294 277968www.swscja.orgReducing re-offending

The Carlton Hotel187 Ayr RoadPrestwick, KA9 1PTContact: Simon LowePhone: 01292 476811www.carlton-prestwick.comHotel & conference

The Klin GroupBarclay HouseWest Langlands StreetKilmarnock, KA1 1PYContact: Marie MacklinPhone: 01563 530454 www.klinhomes.co.ukHouse builders

The Referral Exchange19-21 Nursery StreetKilmarnock, KA1 1RQContact: Sharon CaldowPhone: 0330 333 7997www.refx.co.ukBusiness Networking

The Royal Hotel1 Glaisnock StreetCumnock, KA18 1BPContact: Debbie TempletonPhone: 01290 420822www.royalhotelcumnock.comHotel & restaurant

The Creation Station42 St Andrews AvenuePrestwick, KA9 2DYContact: Liz CairnsPhone: 01292 476730www.thecreationstation.co.ukChildrens arts/crafts classes &parties

Visualizethis6 McCnay CrescentSaltcoats, KA21 6AXContact: David MccolmPhone: 01294319204www.visualizethis.co.ukGraphic design company

West of Scotland PsychologicalServices (WOSPS)Room 004A/B Building 388Liberator HouseGlasgow Prestwick Airport, KA9 2PTContact: Dora WithersPhone: 01292 477711www.wosps.co.ukPsychological services

Whats On In Largs6 Waterside StreetLargs, KA30 9LN

Contact: John MaxwellPhone: 01475 673870

www.whatsoninlargs.co.ukThe definitive Largs website

OFFER Website entry £15.00/month

Chamber Members

A SUMMER eveningof networkinghosted by newmembers RowallanCastle and GolfClub. Guests werewelcomed in thegrand hall of theimpressive 13thcentury castle,enjoyed a deliciousbuffet in the diningroom, followed by alively networkingsession in theDrawing Room. Ournetworking formatguaranteed thateach delegatespoke to everyonein the room. A greatbuzz filled the castleas like-mindedprofessionals made new contacts and prospective customers. The eveningfinished with a guided tour of the castle. Thanks to Rowallanfor hosting.

The popular event in our calendar, we once again travelledto the Isle of Arran for a day of information gathering andnetworking. Our sponsors Caledonian McBrayne arranged atour of the bridge during the sail to Brodick. Off to Lamlash foran invigorating 1/2 hour sail on a Power Rib with Ocean Breezeand enjoyed an exciting tour round the Holy Isle ! Our Arranmembers joined the group for a tasty buffet lunch at theGlenisle Hotel, and the day finished with a tour at ArranAromatics for some retail therapy at Homefarm. Thanks toSponsors Caledonian McBrayne and Stagecoach WestScotland

In June members were invited to the Chamber Office to meetthe team, enjoy a friendly chat, some coffee and an update onChamber services and forthcoming events. The property teamfrom Glasgow Prestwick Airport were available to provide

information on officeunits and rentalspace available fornew and existingbusinesses.

Networking with aNip, was a great wayto kick start theevents program afterthe summer break! MembersA.D. Rattraywhisky wholesalers,welcomed membersto the impressiveshop in Kirkoswald.An interesting tourand tastingaccompanied withdelicious local foodsto compliment thefabulous whiskies.Thanks to DewarRattray for hosting.


EVENTS ROUND UPEVENTS ROUND UPby Yvonne Munro

Events Co-ordinator

Exporting Ayrshire’s Excellence!20th September 2.30 - 4.30pmHost: The Gailes HotelCost: FREE

Ayrshire Chamber AGM20th September 5.00 - 7.00pmGuest Speakers Jim Duffy, EntrepreneurialSpark, Patrick Wiggins, Irvine Bay.Sponsored by:The Gailes HotelCost: FREE

Getting your Business Lean“A Practical Workshop for Manufacturers”27th September9am - 1pmCaledonian PapermillSponsored by:Scottish Manufacturing Advisory ServiceCost: FREE

Ayrshire Business Week8th – 12th October(see advert on page2) Principal Sponsor:Ingram Motoring

Behind the Scenes Tour @ Glaxosmith Kline31st October10.30am – 1pmHost and sponsor: Glaxo Smith KlineCost: £15.00

Tick Talk Networking15th November5.30 - 7.30pmHost and sponsor: Kilmarnock CollegeCost: £15.00

For more details and to book events please visit www.ayrshire-chamber.org or call

01292 678666 and speak to our events co-ordinator, Yvonne Munro.

Prices shown are for Chamber members and include VAT, unless otherwise stated.

Providing you with the opportunity to meet contacts, expand your

knowledge and grow your business.

EventsEventsDiaryDiary

Autumn2012

your ayrshire business autumn 2012

Documents

ayrshire business autumn

support business week

business programme

yourayrshire business

business colleagues

ayrshire businessesby

businessayrshire chamber

local chamber ofcommerce