Business Matters Winter 2014/15

INSIDE: ROCCO Winners, Annual Review in pictures, Members news, Renfrewshire Council and Invest in Renfrewshire & more…

MattersBusiness

WINTER 2014 EDITION HELPING RENFREWSHIRE GROW & PROSPER

ROCCO 2014 THE WINNERS

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper 32 Business Matters Winter 2014

It’s starting to feel like Christmas, welcome to the Winter 2014/15 edition of Business Matters. The all-important fourth quarter will be over by the time you read this and the festive season will be well & truly underway but I trust that you have not been caught up in any supermarket brawls.

In 2014 Scotland was firmly in the world spotlight due to the Referendum, Commonwealth Games and Ryder Cup; it is vital that Scotland continues to build on the exposure and successes that our country has enjoyed.

As a result of the vote against Scottish Independence, the Prime Minister set up a commission under Lord Smith to convene cross party talks which would include submissions from the general public and various other bodies from across Scotland (including the Chamber network) to produce a compromise agreement on recommendations for further devolution of powers to the Scottish Parliament. The document has recently been issued in consultation with Scotland’s five main political parties and will form the basis of draft legislation to include the following key recommendations:• The power to set income tax rates and

bands on earned income.• Powers to allow 16 and 17 year olds to vote

in Scottish Elections.• Power to create new benefits in devolved

areas and make discretionary payments in any area of welfare.

• Power over benefits afforded to the elderly, carers, disabled people and people in ill health.

• And, lastly, two potential recommendations which could benefit Renfrewshire greatly – Fully devolved power over Air Passenger Duty giving a much needed boost to the aviation Industry.

• A call from the commission to give consideration to schemes to enable international students in Scotland to gain more valuable business experience after graduating.

Time is of critical importance and politicians must now come together to deliver these recommendations and ensure that Scotland has the proper ammunition to support our businesses which are the creators of wealth and jobs.

It has been a very busy year for the Chamber and a special one as it celebrated its 50th anniversary.

Looking back at some of the highlights: • Held our 2nd referendum debate in

February with Better Together and Business for Scotland.

• STV’s John Mackay hosted our annual business conference as part of B2B2014 in May attracting 220 guests. The exhibition part of the 2 day event took place in the Lagoon allowing us to increase exhibitors to >50.

• Our golf tournament was another sell-out on a beautiful June day at Paisley GC. Stuart from Chivas impressed us all with his hole in one!

• End of June we were afforded a Civic Reception by Renfrewshire Council to commemorate our 50th Anniversary – over 200 members, past Presidents and guests attended.

• The Chamber was recognised in November for the work it does for young people by being awarded the Investors in Young People Accreditation.

• In November we had ROCCO 2014, which many are saying was the best yet – another sell out with 500 people, 18 awards and >100 entries. Can it get any better?

Continuing on to the products & services which we offer:• Membership continues to be healthy at just

under 600 with 75 organisations joining the Chamber family in the last year.

• Export documentation; we serve 80 clients processing ~12,000

• Business Mentoring – 130 businesses matched. I encourage any organisation that has not used this free service, to do so. We’re looking for more local businesses to take part – so please contact the Chamber

• The Graduate Recruitment Incentive (GRI) helped another 30 graduates get into full time employment at the start of the year.

• Business Centre continues to be well used with >200 bookings.

• Our events - 2,500 people attended 70+ events. We continue to strive to deliver great events that give members the chance to learn & network.

We continue to invest a great deal of time supporting young people across a number of initiatives – the recent youth unemployment stats are the lowest they have been for some time indicating the initiatives that the Chamber is carrying out in partnership with our schools, Invest in Renfrewshire, West College Scotland and UWS are having a positive impact.

As was announced at the end of ROCCO 2014 my term as President is coming to an end and I am stepping down at the AGM. I was proud and honoured to have been presented at ROCCO 2014 with my very own ROCCO for “Outstanding Commitment to the Chamber” and I was also presented with a special keepsake, a photobook capturing some of the many events that I

have represented the Chamber at over the years. It was an emotional moment, it’s not often you’re given a standing ovation by 500 people. The Presidency has played a big part of my personal & business life and a role that I have enjoyed and taken great pride in. I hope that I have been of assistance to some of our members in their strive for success.

Hopefully I can still remain active on the Board – so I am not retiring. I look forward to announcing our new President after our AGM on the 18th December during our Christmas lunch. Your new President will have my full support and will enter the role with the Chamber in a healthy position.

Your Chamber I believe is more relevant now than ever – we are the best connected organisation in Renfrewshire and see ourselves as the true voice of business whose purpose is to “Help Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper”. With Bob Davidson at the helm, the Chamber is run by a great team who are active in the business community and are out every day helping and advising businesses and organisations in our area.

Renfrewshire will be very much in the spotlight with the £1.13Bn City Deal bringing real tangible investment and opportunities to the area assisted by the Council’s ambitious Paisley Town Centre Heritage Asset Strategy. I must also mention the team behind Paisley First who have recently been successful in getting the vote for a Paisley Business Improvement District.

In closing I take this opportunity to thank the Board, the Chamber Team and membership for all the support you have afforded me over the years. I’m proud of what we have achieved together for Renfrewshire and believe there is much more we can fulfil if we continue to work together.

All that remains for me to say is have a great Christmas and best wishes for a healthy & prosperous 2015.

President’s Welcome

Tom Johnston, President Renfrewshire Chamber


Printed on ECF paper sourced from sustainable forests using vegetable based inks.

Renfrewshire Chamber of CommerceBute Court, St Andrews Drive, Glasgow Airport, PA3 2SWt: 0141 847 5450 / f: 0141 847 5499e: [email protected] / w: www.renfrewshirechamber.com Next issue of Business Matters is Spring 2015 Deadline for editorial and adverts is 2nd March 2015, issued end of March 2015

Advertising & Editorial: Euan Keltie 0141 847 5464 / e: [email protected]

Print and Design by: The Print Brokers (Scotland) Ltd / e: [email protected]

Business Matters Winter 2014

P R E M I E R P A R T N E R

Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce would like to acknowledge the support of our Premier Partners:

Follow the chamber:

Bob Davidson,Chief Exec’

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A Warm Welcome from our Chief Executive

With 2015 just around the corner I would like to take this opportunity to thank all our members for their support in the last year. 2014 has been a busy year for all the team at the Chamber – in what as Tom says has been a special year with it being our 50th anniversary.

Congratulations to Euan who joined

us at 17 and has just turned 21; and Laura is now on maternity leave as she is expecting her 2nd child around Christmas time – we wish Laura and her family a very happy Christmas.

Two initiatives that I am looking for more member support on are 1) business mentoring – this free service provides a business / organisation with an experienced business person for free to help take their business forward – I encourage members to check it out if not already done so. 2) Certificate of Work Readiness – need local businesses to offer a 2 month work experience opportunity for a 16-19yo looking to earn a qualification that shows future employers they are work ready and understand and possess the skills employers are looking for.

Finally I would to take this opportunity to thank Tom for all his support as President – we have worked well together – and I’m delighted that Tom wishes to remain on the Board and be involved in taking Renfrewshire Chamber forward.

To all our members, from myself and

all the team at the Chamber – have a great Christmas and best wishes for a successful 2015.


EXCITING TIMES AHEAD FOR PHOENIX HONDAPhoenix Honda are one of just 12 dedicated Honda Corporate Centres of Excellence throughout the UK, specially selected by Honda for our experience and knowledge of the business to business market.

We pride ourselves on offering the highest level of service and our Corporate team can offer a wide range of services including:• Free and impartial advice on your fleet

requirements and the best model for you

• Information on a range of finance and maintenance options

• Comprehensive business proposals• Competitor analysis• Company car tax calculations• Extended vehicle

demonstrations

2015 will be an exciting year for us with three new models and three

updated models coming out. The all new HR-V and Jazz and joined by the Civic Type R, our boldest and most aggressive sports hatch yet. Along with an updated Civic, Civic Tourer estate and CR-V, the range will be expanded by the new Civic Sport which hints towards the racing history of Honda.

The new-look CR-V coming in March has the option of a more powerful 1.6 litre i-DTEC four-cylinder twin-turbo diesel engine, delivering outstanding performance and low CO2 emissions. It

will feature new safety technology as standard in the City Brake Active system (CTBA) to mitigate low speed collisions. This system will be added as standard on the updated Civic and Civic Tourer from March 2015.

The HR-V was the original crossover SUV and now it’s back with new styling, new technologies and new sophistication – it’s a fun and compact SUV. It will be the first in the Honda range to offer

both Petrol and Diesel Earth Dreams Technology engines, giving a

perfect combination of power and efficiency.

For more information or to know more about how we can help you find your next company car, please contact Kathryn Quigley or Richard Anderson on 0141 849 5196/5197 or [email protected].


PAISLEY GOLF CLUB

PAISLEY GOLF CLUB – COME AND SEE FOR YOURSELF!Memberships, Corporate Golf Days and Golf Outing Bookings available.

Call 0141- 884 3903 or e-mail: [email protected]

A uniquely located friendly Club with a great course and stunning views over Renfrewshire

to the Campsies and Ben Lomond.

Scottish Leather Group wins Top Environmental Honour at the Energy Institute AwardsThe Energy Institute Awards 2014, presented at a glittering ceremony at the Sheraton Park Lane, London, saw Scottish Leather Group Limited win the Environmental Award.

Sponsored by the Environment Agency, the Environmental Award was presented to Scottish Leather Group by Robert Light, Deputy Chairman, Environment Agency, alongside the awards’ host, news anchor and broadcaster, Huw Edwards.

Collecting the award on behalf of Scottish Leather Group, Dr. Warren Bowden, Group Environmental Director, commented: It is an honour for the Scottish Leather Group to be recognised in such prestigious and internationally respected company. We are immensely proud of our environmental credentials and innovations in manufacturing

leather sustainably and absolutely delighted to receive this award from such an esteemed panel of judges.

Scottish Leather Group secured the award for its low carbon leather against some stiff competition including Sindicatum Sustainable Resources for its RenewCo projects, SWRP for the Subsea Well Response project and Vital Efficienci for energy savings and ISO 50001 certification at Cancer Research UK’s research laboratory.

Lynda Armstrong OBE FEI, Chair of British Safety Council and formerly of Royal Dutch Shell, where she held operational and management roles in oil and gas exploration for 35 years, chaired this year’s E Awards judging panel which included representatives from across all sectors of the energy industry.

Lynda commented:The EI Awards are a great opportunity to showcase and celebrate the diversity of innovation and excellence in the sector. This year was no exception; we reviewed a large number of applications across the whole spectrum of activities. All of the projects showed the effort in progress to maintain an efficient and dynamic energy industry.

Making leather without costing

the earth.

Scottish Leather Group Limited1 Seedhill, Paisley, PA1 1JL, Scotland

Tel: +44 (0)141 847 4520 Fax: +44 (0)141 848 7246www.scottishleathergroup.com

for handbook 7/11/12 10:12 Page 1


Chivas Brothers – the Scotch whisky and premium gin business of Pernod Ricard – has had its approach to the prevention of accidents and dedication to the wellbeing of its employees recognised with two prestigious accolades at the RoSPA (Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents) Occupational Health and Safety Awards 2014.

The company was presented with a RoSPA Gold award for the fifth consecutive year – and this year also took home the additional accolade of the Astor Trophy.

RoSPA’s gold award recognises organisations that maintain high standards of occupational health and safety, while the Astor Trophy is presented to the company that demonstrates the best management of Occupational Health. Judges praised Chivas Brothers’ strategic vision for the health of its employees, specifically in relation to assessment, prevention and control of health risks, as well as the company’s promotion of wellbeing at work.

Gordon Buist, Production Director for Chivas Brothers, said: “We are delighted to have won the RoSPA gold award for a fifth year running – demonstrating that we have consistently maintained high standards of health and safety at our sites. It was especially pleasing to be presented with an additional award

– the Astor Trophy – this year, which is testament to the very hard work of our Occupational Health team. From services such as smoking cessation and in-house physiotherapy, to lifestyle assessments and healthy eating promotions in our canteens, the team works tirelessly to improve the health and wellbeing of our 1,600 strong workforce.”

David Rawlins, RoSPA’s Awards Manager, added: “The RoSPA Awards encourage

the raising of occupational health and safety standards across the board. Organisations that gain recognition for their health and safety management systems, such as Chivas Brothers, contribute to a collective raising of the bar for other organisations to aspire to, and we offer them our congratulations.”

See www.rospa.com/awards/ for more information about the RoSPA Occupational Health and Safety Awards.

Chamber Premier Partners the Braehead Clan continue their ascent of the sporting world and the UK wide EIHL and for the first time in their short history they sit at the top of the league, given the Clan are the youngest of the 10 competing clubs this is a great testament of not only the growth but the ambition of the Braehead outfit.

Last year the Clan’s attendances grew by 33% year on year and this season is showing growth of 29.7% year on year. The Clan are also now attracting major corporate interest and their sponsorship portfolio contains owner managed

companies, SME’s and multi-national PLC’s.The biggest difference from attending a

Clan game at Braehead Arena to the more traditional sports is in the people who attend the games, Clanfans are in the main families and this universal audience lap up the pizazz and excitement associated with the game night experience. But the proof is easily available any chamber member who emails [email protected] will receive two tickets to a future game, we are confident once you have been here you will be back and you will see for yourself the attraction and fun of being a clan fan and or sponsor.

Joyful and Triumphant

CHIVAS BROTHERS CELEBRATES DOUBLE SUCCESS AT ROSPA AWARDS


With our vast knowledge and experience allied to our meticulous attention to detail, Kenneth Keegan Independent Funeral Directors endeavour to meet the needs of our clients and strive to provide excellence in all aspects of our service.

Our funeral directors, qualified to diploma level, will take care of all aspects of arrangements. An appointment can be arranged at our comfortable premises at 149 George Street, Paisley or in the convenience of your own home.

We know and understand how difficult it can be to arrange a funeral; we strive to offer a complete, individual, caring and professional service to all families from the moment of first contact. We’ll endeavour to help you every step of the way providing guidance and support at a time when you need it most.

We consider it our privilege when a family entrusts their loved one into our care and guarantee that we will provide the highest possible level of care. We strive to listen to all our client’s wishes and

deliver a personalised funeral as a lasting tribute to their loved one.

We passionately believe that bereaved families deserve a funeral for their loved one to be tailored to their personal wishes at an affordable cost

and best possible value.As proud members of the Renfrewshire

Chamber of Commerce, we offer all our fellow Chamber businesses and its staff a 10% reduction on all our Funeral Director fees at a time when you need it most.

Here for you at a time when you need it most

Kenneth Keegan


Glasgow Airport has reported yet another month of growth after 734,000 passengers travelled through its doors in October, representing an increase of 2.7% compared to the same period last year.

It was the airport’s 21st consecutive month of growth and its busiest October in six years. International and domestic traffic grew by 2.8% and 2.7% respectively during a month in which the airport made a series of new route announcements and was voted the best airport in the UK in a survey conducted by Saga.

Amanda McMillan, managing director of Glasgow Airport, said: “We have secured over 20 new routes and services in 2014 and have invested more than £20 million in refurbishing large parts of the terminal building. During this time we have continued to welcome an increasing number of passengers through our doors and it was extremely pleasing to record what was our 21st

consecutive month of growth.“November is already promising to be

a busy month for both the city and the airport. We helped welcome the MTV Europe Music Awards and a number of airlines, including Aer Lingus, have added capacity for Scotland’s European qualifying match against the Republic of Ireland later this week. Large scale events such as these not only ensure the spotlight remains firmly on Glasgow, they help drive growth at the airport.”

Canadian airline WestJet further strengthened Glasgow Airport’s long haul connectivity when it confirmed it will launch daily, direct flights to Halifax, Nova Scotia in May 2015. Ryanair opened its first ever base at Glasgow Airport on 26 October. The airline will operate seven routes during the winter, growing to nine in the summer season, and will bring approximately 850,000 passengers per year to the airport.

Other route development highlights

included the launch by easyJet of direct flights to Marrakech, Morocco, and the news it will introduce flights to Bordeaux in 2015. Thomas Cook announced direct flights to Cuba for Winter 2015 and Lufthansa will introduce direct flights to Munich in May 2015.

PASSENGER NUMBERS CONTINUE TO SOAR AT GLASGOW AIRPORT• 2.7% increase in October passenger numbers • Busiest October in six years

glasgowairport.com twitter.com/GLA_Airport

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SHOPPERS don’t need to travel out of Renfrewshire for the best variety and value in Christmas gifts. Our own retail Mecca is the intu Braehead Shopping Centre with more than 100 stores to choose from along with a host of restaurants, cafes and bars to make Christmas shopping an enjoyable experience. With the mall open until midnight from December 15 to 23, there is plenty time to do your Christmas shopping when it’s most convenient. And free parking for 6500 cars is yet another bonus for shoppers.

The Chamber’s Business Matters caught up with general manager (operations) at intu Braehead, Gary Turnbull who explained how the festive season is shaping up for the mall. “We’ve seeing a huge increase in the amount of shoppers coming to the centre as Christmas approaches,” he said. “People seem to be planning ahead and have started their Christmas shopping earlier this year. I reckon it’s because they want to make sure they get the special gift they really want, especially if it’s one of those must-have presents that is in big demand. “The stores at intu Braehead

are doing very good business at the moment and they’ll get even busier as it gets closer to the big day.” Gary added: “People are doing more than just Christmas shopping by turning it into more of a social occasion. We’ve noticed shoppers are spending a lot longer in the centre making a day of it, meeting with friends and having a meal in one of our sit-down restaurants.

Now shop onlineintu.co.uk/braehead

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West College Scotland is pleased to announce the launch of a series of tailored training packages designed to fast track people into the Renewable Energy Sector. All training packages detailed below are offered on a fully funded basis to organisations and individuals who meet the funding criteria.

t 0300 600 60 60w www.westcollegescotland.ac.uk

West College Scotland’s Funded Renewable Energy Programme

Candidates can choose from one of the following programmes:

Energy Assessor and Green Deal Advisors Green Deal Advisor Upskilling Domestic Gas Engineers & Plumbers for Solar Thermal Upskilling for Electricians & Electrical Engineers for Solar PV Ground and Air Source Heat Pumps Green Gas RHI Cross Over

For more information please email:[email protected]

With emerging technologies looking to be the key to Britain’s future as an engineering nation, innovative staff at West College Scotland (WCS) decided to exploit this extraordinary opportunity, working with businesses to develop their staff in order to help them break into new markets. Here’s how WCS helped one company do just that and scooped a prestigious award in the process.

From an initial enquiry from Scottish manufacturer, Thermaflow Ltd, for traditional plumbing and heating training, engineering staff at WCS identified, that with specific renewable energy training the company could further enhance their business with expansion into the emerging technology sector.

Business Development Executive, Tami Mawhinney said, “This provided the College with the perfect opportunity to work alongside Thermaflow to devise a specific training package that would provide staff with the skills required to break into the emerging technologies market.”

George Curtis, Managing Director of Thermaflow commented, “Our relationship with WCS has been hugely beneficial for our business. Our initial approach was for basic staff training, however after discussions with the College we developed a package that supported staff training and product development that allowed us to expand into important new markets and increase our customer base.”

Consolidating the success of this partnership, West College Scotland was awarded the Employer Engagement Award at this year’s College Development Network Annual Awards. This award recognises the creative approaches that

a college has taken to enhance employer engagement activity.

The College currently has a number of fully funded renewable energy training programmes to help businesses make the transition into the renewable energy sector. Speak to our award winning team now to see how we can help you make that leap. Email: [email protected]

West College Scotland Scoops Award for Innovative Employer Engagement

Left to right – Assistant Principal of Business and Technologies Peter Pringle, Head of Energy and Engineering Andrew Fogarty, Renewables Lecturer Paul Lynn Business Development Executive Tami Mawhinney, Gary Curtis from Thermaflow, George Curtis from Thermaflow Head of Construction Tommy Campbell and Director of Business and Enterprise Sara Rae


First Aid








Oakmonts Property Ltd, is a new, local, online Property Estate Agency & Lettings Company; serving Inverclyde, Renfrewshire & Glasgow. At Oakmonts, we can offer our customers outstanding packages: whether it is for clients looking to sell or rent out their properties. As we are an online based property company, we have longer opening hours and because we have minimal overheads, we can dedicate all of our time and energy to providing you an excellent, first class, specialised service, at extremely competitive prices!

Whether you choose Oakmonts to sell or rent your property, you will be making the right choice, as the service we provide will go over and above that of your typical ‘High Street Agent’. At Oakmonts, we go that extra mile when it comes to property – also offering bespoke legal advice in any aspect of Property Law; and can also offer solutions to issues that may arise when selling or renting your property, to ensure a smooth completion.

We are available daily until 10pm for any other specific property related matters; or perhaps you are simply just looking for some property advice. Whatever it may be, we are here to help you.

We passionately believe that choosing the right Property Company to act for you is the key to your success – so why not choose Oakmonts, a company you can trust! Get in touch today at www.oakmonts.co.uk or call us on 0141 812 5482. We look forward to hearing from you!

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Want to grow your business? Start here.Business Gateway has a wealth of resources, fresh perspectives and new ideas to help growing businesses – all of which can be tailored to your needs. We also have qualified growth advisers who are experienced in helping businesses consider their options and develop their strategy for growth.

So why not find out more? Call your local office on 0141 530 2406 or visit www.bgateway.com/renfrewshire

You’re doing well. What’s next?

Business Advice • Networking • Events • Routes to Finance • HR • Sales & Marketing

Download our free business support app.

At Business Gateway Renfrewshire our team of advisers know exactly how it feels to start and grow a successful business - because they’ve done it themselves.

We know that turning an idea into a thriving business isn’t always easy and that running your own company may seem daunting, but our range of services will give you the confidence, skills and information you need to kick start your business.

There are many avenues of free support on offer from our one-to-one advice, programme of workshops and online guides.

Recently we have supported two ROCCO award winners; Clyde Marine Training who were awarded Employer of the Year, and Tom Kennet of Kennet Watches Ltd who was named Young Business Person.

Both received tailor made support packages from us to help them take their businesses forward.

To find out how Business Gateway Renfrewshire can help you visit www.bgateway.com/Renfrewshire or call 0141 530 2406.

Want to grow your business? Start here.Business Gateway has a wealth of resources, fresh perspectives and new ideas to help growing businesses – all of which can be tailored to your needs. We also have qualified growth advisers who are experienced in helping businesses consider their options and develop their strategy for growth.

So why not find out more? Call your local office on 0141 530 2406 or visit www.bgateway.com/renfrewshire

You’re doing well. What’s next?

Business Advice • Networking • Events • Routes to Finance • HR • Sales & Marketing

Download our free business support app.BUSINESS GATEWAY RENFREWSHIRE PROVIDES THE SUPPORT YOU NEED TO RUN YOUR BUSINESS

New Kid’s On The Block!


They say necessity is the mother of invention but in Tom Kennett’s case it proved to be the father

timepieces

They say necessity is the mother of invention but in Tom Kennett’s case it proved to be the father. In 2009, Tom was toiling with the idea of what to buy his father for his 60th birthday. His father – notoriously hard to buy for – had every gadget you could imagine and was a patented inventor himself.

However, both Tom and his father shared a passion for timepieces and that became the inspiration for Tom to design his first watch (The Savro) for his father. The Savro design attracted widespread praise and brand ‘Kennett’ was born.

Kennett is headquartered in Hillington, with Britain’s stylish heritage embodied

into each of their watch collections. The design of the timepieces is taken care of at their UK design Studio based within the Kennett Headquarters where quality checks and final distribution of

their timepieces is performed.

Kennett’s ongoing success has a central focus; to create versatile, attractive designs whilst offering consumers greater choice at affordable prices without

compromising quality. Kennett has been worn by many Celebrities like Gerard Butler, Ashley Walters, Ian Wright, Alesha Dixon.

For more information visit www.kennettonline.com

WINNERYOUNG BUSINESS PERSON OF THE YEAR

www.kennettonline.com

Tom Kennett


Multi-award winning Porrelli Ice Cream was established by Gerardo Porrelli in 1925 when he immigrated to Scotland from San Biagio in Southern Italy. He settled in Paisley with his family and began to produce delicious luxury ice cream using traditional recipes brought from his homeland.

Most recently crowned Family Business of the Year at the 2014 ROCCO Awards, Porrelli proudly enter their 90th year in 2015 and are still very much family run to this day. The current Managing Director Enzo Durante is the grandson of the founder Gerardo and he is supported by his wife Ines and daughter Serena.

Together they lead a very passionate team that is committed to delivering quality and service that has seen generations of people across Scotland enjoy Porrelli Ice Cream.

In January 2008 Porrelli moved production of their high quality Italian style ice cream to their ‘State of the Art’ ice cream factory. Upgraded equipment and processes has increased capacity to over 6000 litres of delicious ice cream every day.

It is their secret family recipe that has been handed down through the family over the years that has helped Porrelli to win numerous Industry awards. And these in turn have helped to establish the brand as being trusted and respected for it’s quality throughout the catering trade, frozen wholesalers, cash & carry’s and multiple retailers.

Porrelli have a fleet of refrigerated vehicles that travel across the Central

Belt of Scotland, delivering a diverse and delicious range of ice creams, premium Italian gateaux, frozen desserts, sundries and savoury food products to the catering market. They work in partnership with other wholesalers and cover almost the whole of Scotland from the Isles to the Borders delivering some of Scotland’s most popular flavours including Scottish Tablet, Raspberry Ripple and of course, Iron Brew ice cream.

Porrelli Ice Cream welcome 2015 with pride as they celebrate their 90th year in business

Enzo Durante, Managing Director 2014 ROCCO Awards Family Business of the Year


Boyd & Company, Renfrewshire’s largest independent insurance broker won the ROCCO Award for Outstanding Performing Business at Renfrewshire’s premier business awards dinner held at the Normandy Hotel, Renfrew on Friday 14th November 2014.

Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce received in excess of 100 applications this year. Boyd & Co were shortlisted following a presentation by Eric Richardson & Gary Kidd, Directors at Boyd’s.

Gary Kidd commented on winning the award “We are delighted to have picked up the award. We are very proud of our team at Boyd’s. This is recognition for all of the hard work & our customer focussed approach.

Our business has continued to grow through some of the most challenging

times in recent years which is testament to the quality of our resource, expertise & capabilities.

A big thank you goes out to our clients, our partners & suppliers whose support as ever, is greatly appreciated.

Congratulations also go out to the team at Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce for putting on another showcase event”

Boyd & Company celebrated 40 years of trading in Paisley last year. In addition to being Renfrewshires largest independent insurance broker, Boyd’s are now a top 5 independent broker in Scotland.

Our commercial insurance business has grown significantly over the years through many of our existing business clients & partners providing us with first class referrals.

Our clients benefit from expert advice and service bespoke to their requirements.

Boyd’s recently introduced another innovative product to further enhance our service to clients. Our Business Support Package which provides expert assistance on claims, health & Safety & employment law has been received extremely well. The vast majority of our existing business clients are now taking advantage of this unique facility offered by Boyd & Co.

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Renewables

5 Mill Street

Paisley

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NATIONAL BACKING






Motor Fleet

Renewables

5 Mill Street

Paisley

PA1 1LY

0141 561 9000




University of the West of Scotland has undertaken a detailed analysis of the youth engagement programme, Street Stuff, which highlights the key role it continues to play in tackling anti-social behaviour among youths in Renfrewshire.

Street Stuff, which is a partnership between St Mirren FC, Renfrewshire Council, Scottish Fire and Rescue, Police Scotland and Engage Renfrewshire, is a Renfrewshire community-based youth engagement initiative that engages with young people through the use of football.

The University was appointed by the project partners to undertake an evaluation of Street Stuff which outlined not just the strengths of the programme, but also areas of future development.

The evaluation project saw UWS undertake interviews with key stakeholders, coaching staff as well as young people who participate in the initiative. The University also observed a number of Street Stuff events as part of its research.

Street Stuff, which was established in 2009, was borne out of concerns about rising youth offending rates across Renfrewshire. Through targeting specific geographical ‘hot spot’ areas, the programme aimed to address the causes of anti-social behaviour through its engagement with children and young people, aged 10-18 years.

Since its introduction in 2009, low-level offending has reduced across Renfrewshire by 75% as the programme successfully diverts the children and young people away from negative behaviours to playing football and re-connecting with their own communities. This initiative does not merely exist to treat the symptoms of the behaviour, but to work with the young people and through developing and sustaining

positive relationships assist and empower them to improve their lives.

Street Stuff is free and accessible to children and young people from across Renfrewshire due to its mobile football units. It provides employment opportunities as well as health promotion for young people. It has recorded annual attendance figures averaging 20,000 children and young people each year since its introduction.

The findings of the University’s evaluation emphasised that Street Stuff has made a significant contribution to the reduction in low-level offending and anti-social behaviour across the local authority. The report also highlighted possible areas of improvement such as encouraging the involvement of more girls within the programme and utilising existing community resources to maximise social inclusion.

Ruth Neil of the University’s School of Media, Culture & Society, who undertook the University’s evaluation of the Street Stuff programme, said: “I was delighted to be appointed to lead the evaluation of Street Stuff. The success of the initiative has demonstrated what is possible when

there is a co-ordinated response as well as the will to identify and meet the needs of young people.

“Our evaluation not only highlighted the many positive aspects of the initiative but also provided information on some possible areas of improvement for the future to ensure it continues to go from strength to strength.”

Councillor Eddie Devine, Convener of Renfrewshire Council’s Environment Policy Board, said: “We’re very encouraged by the findings of the UWS study and appreciative of the work done by the School of Media, Culture & Society to evaluate the programme.

“Street Stuff was established specifically to divert young people away from antisocial behaviour and it has done so, with low-level offending down by 75% since 2009. But it’s also clear from the study that the programme has brought many other benefits and really been a positive force in young people’s lives.

“We welcome the fact that UWS have identified some areas for improvement going forward and, taking this advice onboard, we can keep improving Street Stuff and go from strength to strength.”

Research highlights the importance of Street Stuff youth engagement programme

UWS Business School lecturer (and Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce event piper) Russell Campbell has just published his first novel, Mover and Shirkers, which is based on the business theme of insider trading. It was inspired by the notion of ‘greed versus fear’, which of course dominates stock markets in general, but which can also drive individual motivations towards cheating when information is limited. Insider trading is a ‘victimless crime’? So you thought...Movers & Shirkers is available from Amazon both via Kindle and in paperback.


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A new state-of-the-art microbiology laboratory which aims to combat Healthcare Associated Infections (HAIs) in Scotland was launched by UWS in October.

The laboratory, which is based at the University’s Paisley Campus, will enable novel and clinically relevant research needed to positively tackle HAIs in Scotland.

Despite recent reductions in the rate of Healthcare Associated Infections, one in 12 patients who are admitted to hospital still suffer from some form of HAI. The new laboratory brings together clinicians and scientists from the Institute of Healthcare Associated Infection in the University’s School of Health, Nursing & Midwifery and researchers from the Institute of Biomedical and Environmental Health Research based in the University’s School of Science and Sport, enabling them to collaborate in studies to control the spread of infection such as MRSA and norovirus which will directly translate into improvements in patient care.

The lab comprises facilities for the growth, manipulation, detection and analysis of a wide range of human pathogens including protozoa, fungi and bacteria.

This state-of-the-art equipment based in the lab will enable UWS research staff to investigate hospital pathogens present in both patients and the environment. This will see UWS researchers study and track the movements of particular bacteria and viruses that have the potential to be transmitted through the air; identify and study bacteria and viruses that exist on the surfaces of hospital equipment and in turn develop approaches which prevent their presence and their subsequent transmission from patient to patient; use computer modelling to predict the movement of bacteria and viruses around hospitals.

Dr Heather Simpson, Interim Dean of the University’s School of Health, Nursing & Midwifery, said: “The investment in this new laboratory will deliver a strong research base in the fight against HAIs. This research will not only benefit

patients but will inform the teaching of nursing and other healthcare students within the University and ensure that they have the best possible understanding to allow them to play their part in reducing HAIs.”

Professor Sabbir Ahmed, Dean of the University’s School of Science and Sport, said: “We are delighted to have officially opened this lab which sees a unique collaboration between scientists and clinicians across the University and will play a key role in the effort to tackle HAIs in Scotland.”

State-of-the-art lab to help combat healthcare associated infections


UWS officially launches new Corporate Strategy Scottish Parliament

University of the West of Scotland officially launched its new Corporate Strategy at an event at the Scottish Parliament on 7 October 2014.

The event, which was formally sponsored by George Adam, MSP for Paisley, saw UWS Principal and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Craig Mahoney outline the University’s exciting plans for the future and how it aims to become Scotland’s most student-focused higher education institution.

UWS has developed an unashamedly ambitious strategy with stretching targets. By 2020, the University aims to be the best Scottish university for student satisfaction and for students going into professional jobs.

The Strategy also highlights that UWS wants to significantly increase its number of international students and that it aims to double annual turnover from £100m to £200m, which will include boosting income from knowledge exchange, research and consultancy.

The event saw UWS staff being joined by MSPs, stakeholders, and representatives from Scottish HEIs and colleges to celebrate the Scottish launch of the University’s new Corporate Strategy and to take part in discussions related to the Strategy.

To view the University’s new Corporate Strategy visit www.uws.ac.uk/corporatestrategy

UWS has established a formal partnership with the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC), which will provide a platform for collaborative working across a number of mutually beneficial areas.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) builds on and formalises, the University’s extremely close links with the SSSC, which is the regulatory body for the social service workforce in Scotland.

This formal partnership will see UWS and SSSC working on a range of projects embracing joint research and knowledge transfer activity, as well as education and training programmes for SSSC’s social service workforce.

The SSSC is a key partner in a UWS lead research project aimed at enhancing the skills of those working in the social services sector across Europe. The two year strategic partnership project, which is funded by Erasmus+, the new EU programme for education, training, youth and sport, sees UWS and the SSSC working with four European partner organisations to develop a highly innovative immersive 3D virtual environment to simulate a range of scenarios that might arise in professional practice.

This learning environment will be driven by emotional artificial intelligence (AI), to provide a safe and readily accessible environment where students and social workers, who deal with vulnerable people, can learn by interacting with NPCs (Non-Player Characters) and others in a simulation of a real world service.

Those accessing the virtual environment will engage with simulations and be required to navigate their way through choices to arrive at the best resolution. Each simulation can be replayed and evaluated by the trainer/mentor and the trainee can use the same simulation as many times as required.

The partnership is also working with key sector organisations to develop a series of 3D, interactive games that address the development of leadership and management skills relevant to the social and health sector integration agenda.

Professor Craig Mahoney, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of UWS, said: “UWS is committed to making a key contribution to the growth of the Scottish economy and we are delighted to have established this important partnership with the Scottish Social Services Council.

“This new partnership builds on, and formalises, our excellent links with the SSSC and will result in long-lasting benefits for both UWS and the SSSC.”

Anna Fowlie, Chief Executive of the Scottish Social Services Council, said: “I am really pleased that we are building on our already strong partnership and excited at the opportunities this brings both for us, here in Scotland but also across Europe. We have achieved a lot already and this formal partnership opens the way for more. We’ve tapped into a way of learning where people use what are now everyday skills everyday technologies and the benefits of this are enormous. People hold onto their learning and are able to use it and there is potential for this to save money as well as precious time which can be spent in other ways. There are exciting times ahead.”

UWS establishes formal partnership with Scottish Social Services Council


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Keeping on top of essential maintenance scheduling, including services or MOT’s, is a large task for any business and a significant use of resources. Working together with Malcolm Maintenance you can be confident your vehicle fleet will be maintained and repaired to the highest standards, at competitive prices.

Outsource your fleet maintenance, lighten the load and let Malcolm Maintenance take care of it for you.

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Glasgow Warriors are delighted to announce that they will be continuing their relationship with Clyde Travel Management as the club’s official travel partner.

Clyde Travel Management originally joined the Warriors family last season and played its part in what became the club’s most successful season to date.

As one of Scotland’s largest independent business travel management companies Clyde brings with it a wealth of experience and has become an extension of the Warriors team, handling all aspects of team travel, leaving Gregor Townsend and his players free to concentrate on the rugby.

In addition to looking after the team requirements, Clyde arrange supporters’ travel through ATOL licensed Alba Travel (Clyde’s leisure and holiday brand), offering bespoke packages through their websites www.clydetravel.com and www.alba-travel.com

Last season they used a charter flight and several coaches to get hundreds of supporters to Dublin for the PRO12 final against Leinster. This proved to be

enormously successful and it’s hoped this type of initiative will see an increase in fans travelling to away games.

Glasgow Warriors managing director Nathan Bombrys said: “We are delighted to welcome Clyde Travel Management back on board for another season.

“They have become an integral part of our team in respect of our travel arrangements for the players and coaches, but also the opportunities they have opened up for our fans to support the team at away games.

“They were crucial to our arrangements for the final last May and a big reason so many supporters were able to travel across and support the team.

“We are pleased that they have chosen to promote the growth of their business through Glasgow Warriors and look forward to working with them to achieve further success this season.”

Managing Director of Clyde Travel Management Brian Potter added: “This has been an extremely beneficial partnership for us and we’re really pleased to renew our status as ‘Glasgow

Warriors Official Travel Partner’ for another season.

“It has brought some great exposure to our organisation through our advertising campaigns and it’s great to be associated with such a popular sporting organisation based in Glasgow.”

Glasgow Warriors renews partnership with Clyde Travel Management

About Clyde Travel ManagementWith a distinguished profile in the marine travel sphere, having arranged travel for crew management and energy sector companies since 1989, Clyde also delivers corporate travel solutions for a large portfolio of companies in several other business sectors since 2005, and owns the award-winning Alba Travel in Inverness. This allows Clyde to offer businesses and their employees the widest range of crew, offshore and business travel products including tailored leisure options and foreign exchange.






DIRECTORS: RESPONSIBILITIES WHEN BILLS CAN’T BE METWhen a company is unable to meet its liabilities when they fall due and as such becomes insolvent, directors need to consider their duties and responsibilities, and how their role changes in such a situation.

Under normal circumstances, it is a director’s responsibility to act as a steward of the assets and liabilities of a company on behalf of the shareholders. However, should a company become insolvent or a decision be made to wind up a struggling business, a director’s duty is then to act in the best interests of the creditors. This principle applies whether or not a formal liquidator is appointed.

The broad guidance set out below is a starting point for directors to consider before they take any action.

Do:• Obtain appropriate professional advice.

The earlier advice is sought, generally the greater the options available.

• Consider reducing the company’s work force but ensure that all relevant legislative and contractual stipulations are met; consider cutting other costs.

• Consider a strategy to identify if any part of the business can be saved.

• Hold regular Board meetings and ensure all directors are aware of any decisions being made; maintain minutes of all such meetings and decisions.

• Ensure all business records are kept fully up to date.

Do Not:• Incur any additional credit/borrowing

which is unlikely to be repaid. This includes taking deposits for services which are unlikely to be fulfilled.

• Sell any company assets at less than an appropriate value.

• Make payments to settle directors’ loan balances.

• Make payments to one creditor in preference to another.

• Conceal or destroy company records or papers.

Directors must remember that should an insolvency practitioner be appointed, part of the practitioner’s role is to submit a report to the Insolvency Service on everyone who is or was a director for a

three year period up to the date of their appointment, including non executive directors. Should this report contain adverse comments on the actions undertaken by directors, they could be required to answer claims for breach of duty or wrongdoing, particularly if the above principles have not been followed, and in a worst case could be personally liable to the extent of losses incurred after the point when they knew there was no means of avoiding insolvent liquidation.

The above guidance applies principally to situations where it is likely that a liquidator or administrator will be appointed. In any situation where a director looks ahead to consider whether a business can continue, however, the same matters must be considered. The importance of seeking early professional advice cannot be underestimated.

Should you wish further advice in relation to any of the above, please contact me or my partner David Hunter.

Derek Forsyth, Partner, Campbell Dallas, Chartered Accountants






A Primary Teacher with over 25 years experience, Diane is qualified to Grade 8 standard in Associated Board Music Exams and Grade 6 Associated Board Theory. She has played a major role in schools, teaching music and training school choirs. Last year for the second time, her Cardonald Primary School choir, won the Rotary Club of Paisley’s Quest4Talent Choir Category and has been filmed for STV. She also now teaches music in Primary schools in East Dunbartonshire.

In 2010, she started Music4Kidz, teaching piano to children of all ages from home. She is a great believer in teaching music to children as young as possible and introduces the basic concepts of beat, rhythm and pitch to children at as early an age as possible, following the approach recommended by Kodaly. Kodaly believed that all children can be trained to be musical if exposed to music from birth. Consequently, Diane runs Toddler/PreSchool classes to teach basic musical concepts in a fun way using percussion instruments, puppets and singing games.

She even has some 4 year olds learning the Ukulele.

“I firmly believe that all children should have the opportunity to sing and enjoy music. That’s why I set up Music4Kidz. Music can be fun and promotes confidence, self-esteem, language development and social skills”

In 2011, Diane’s business had grown from one exclusively for children to one which included everyone. She wanted to offer a wider range of musical opportunities to not just children, but to adults too. Therefore the Diane Mitchell Music School was formed and another teacher was taken on to meet demand. As well as piano and keyboard, she began to offer singing lessons, guitar lessons and drum lessons. Now Diane is expanding her business further and moving in to premises in Brick Lane Studios, Paisley. In addition to lessons in piano, guitar, singing, keyboard, drums, Violin/fiddle and trumpet, she is planning to start a new Singing4All group, one for children and one for adults and a musicianship class for Primary School children. She also

hopes to form a music club for retired people.

An open weekend is planned on January 10th and 11th for people to pop in and see what is happening.

The Diane Mitchell Music School, Diane Mitchell, Brick Lane Recording Studios, 7-9 Weir Street, Paisley PA3 4DW. Tel 07896689816

www.dianemitchellmusicschool.co.uk

Renfrewshire’s leading charity for older people is embarking on an exciting period of development and is seeking to broaden and strengthen its Board with additional appointments. Roar – Connections for life is a limited company that aims to promote health and wellbeing, connect lives and build communities. So we try to embody the spirit of Christmas to isolated older adults throughout the year.

Roar – Connections for life currently provides 13 health & wellbeing clubs and befriending services and a range of new projects to more than 600 beneficiaries. General Manager, Nicola Hanssen leads a small dedicated and hardworking team, supported by over 150 volunteers. She says, “Increasing numbers of older adults - particularly older men - are becoming more isolated in today’s fast paced, virtual society. Our culture, core values and commitment to equality, are reducing social isolation, building connections and adding life to years -

not just years to life.”Chair John Wilby says “The Board

already has a wide range of business and public sector experience and is now implementing an Innovation, Creativity and Enterprise Strategy. We are therefore keen to attract additional Board

members with a passion, experience and skill to help us convert some of these concepts into service delivery”.

To register your interest or, for more information, please contact Nicola at [email protected] or visit our website www.roarforlife.org

Could YOUR expertise make a difference?

The Diane Mitchell Music School set to expand in new premises in January 2015

Diane Mitchell


Roar - Connections for Life seeks to strengthen the board to ensure that the organisation is well governed and well managed in order to continue to develop and thrive.

Expressions of interest are particularly sought from individuals who have skills or experience in one or more of the following areas:

• Accountancy and financial management• Management in the public, private or voluntary sectors• Knowledge of the health and social care sector

Applicants should also have an interest in maximizing the wellbeing of older adults.

In addition, interest in or experience of the equalities agenda, sustainable development and/or legal and governance matters would be advantageous.

Membership is non-remunerated and would require that individuals attend meetings of the Board (around eight meetings per year, in the daytime or early evening). Relevant expenses would be reimbursed.

Our organisation has grown by 350% in the past 4 years and we are diversifying our income and activities to meet the growing demand for services.

Roar - Connections for Lifes vision is to be a key provider of low-level, preventative, health

and wellbeing services for older people.

For more information, please contact John Wilby (Chair)c/o West End Community Centre, 5a Underwood Lane, Paisley PA1 2SL

Office Tel: 0141 889 7481 Closing date: Open

MEMBERSHIP OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES


Call: 0845 548 8823Web: commercialandasset.co.uk

Commercial + Asset Finance

Commercial + Asset help you unlock cash from your existing assetsThe Key to Working Capital

We Can Also Fund New Start Businesses

Hard Assets i.e. Trucks trailers, plant & machinery, bus coaches

Soft Assets i.e. IT Equipment, software, catering equipment and other office furnishings photocopiers etc

Age of asset – Anything up to 20 years old (can be flexible on age dependent on asset)

Re-finance facilitiesRe-finance facilities – We can re-finance all types of assets either owned, or on finance to raise capital for clients.

Suppliers – we are not strict on supplier route and can also fund asset purchase from other companies.

Unsecured LoansUnsecured Loans - We are also able to access commercial loans for up to £250k unsecured for limited companies and up to £150k unsecured for sole traders and partnerships. The only criteria is businesses MUST have 3 years trading.

Commercial Mortgages

At Commercial and Asset Finance we work with our clients to deliver a wide range of innovative and competitive commercial asset finance packages.

Asset Finance is our core business, flexibility with a ‘can do’ business ethos gives us an edge. We also deal at all levels - from small sole trader businesses through to large limited companies. Advances are available from £5K upwards.

We are specialists in sourcing a range of Commercial Asset Finance Products like Sale and Leaseback, Hire Purchase, Operating Lease and much more.

We don’t believe that every business should accept an “off the shelf package”

as no two organisations are the same.We will take the time to understand

your business and to tailor the right solution.

From SMEs to blue-chip organisations and from purchases ranging from a few thousand through to millions of pounds, we will work with you to provide you with an asset finance solution for the most cost-effective method of funding your business.

Recently, we acquired Cashflow And Capital (www.cashflowandcapital.com) which now allows us to provide you with an even bigger range of financial solutions including Invoice Factoring. Did you know that you every

single invoice in your sales ledger has immediate value? They are essentially debts that your own customers have already agreed to pay. Invoice finance means that you can tap into the value trapped in these invoices and get payment within 24 hours. That means you don't need to chase your customers for payment or wait weeks or months to get paid.

Whatever your financial needs, here at Commercial and Asset Finance we will work hard to ensure your business exceeds its full potential with our commercial asset finance packages.

We were proud to be a finalist at this years ROCCO awards too.

Do You Want To Benefit From Our Business Finance Knowledge And Influence?


Bob has a limited number of mentoring opportunities available & inviting companies - owners / MDs / CEOs / Directors & senior staff - to be mentored by him.

Criteria: • Organisation must have been in

business for over a year • Aiming to grow their business by a

cumulative £400K over a 3 years period • Be based in Renfrewshire, East

Ren, Inverclyde, Helensburgh or Dunbartonshire

• Person not been mentored for a year

Timing - Bob has 4 slots available: 1st Friday of month, 10am at Chamber

for 1 hour plus 2nd, 3rd & 4th Friday of month, also 10am at the Chamber

The person would be mentored at the Chamber and regularly meet on their relevant Friday for approx. 6 sessions

Bob Davidson CV Summary2009-present Chamber Chief Exec: Governance, strategy, planning, idea generation, business development, event management, marketing & PR, managing people, IT, social media, customer service, data analysis, project management, budgeting & commercials - knowledge of local business area / well connected / networking

Prior to Chamber: 20 years’ experience across several industries including drinks & construction: as above plus supply chain, procurement, tendering, business improvement, international experience, systems implementation, programme management, team development

If interested please email Bob in private direct at [email protected] detailing what mentoring support you are looking for and what Friday would work best for you.

Please note: mentoring is free - but the mentor is not a free consultant. They are not there to "do" the work. They are there to act a sounding board and as an experienced & neutral pair of eyes & ears.

and Best Wishes for a Healthy and Prosperous 2015From all the staff and Board at Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce

www.renfrewshirechamber.com

Mentoring Opportunity with Chamber CEO Bob Davidson

Happy Christmas


ROCCO all over the world!The 11th ROCCO awards took place at the Normandy on Friday the 14th November. The premier event in the Renfrewshire business calendar was hosted by ROCCO regular Fred MacAulay in front of a sell-out audience of 500 guests that saw 18 awards presented on the night.

Tom Johnston, the Chamber President opened proceedings with the traditional look back over the last year focusing on what the Chamber has achieved in its

50th anniversary plus the big moments in Scotland throughout 2014 and finished with the opportunities Renfrewshire has including the City Deal and the Paisley Town Centre Asset Strategy. Tom’s address mentioned that ROCCO 2014 had attracted the highest number of entries ever at over 100 and congratulated all the organisations and individuals that had reached the final. He also encouraged winners to maximise their ROCCO win in their own PR.

SPONSORED BY:


ROCCO Award for Excellence in Customer Servicesponsored by intu Braehead Spectrum Service Solutions

ROCCO Award for Innovation & Technology sponsored by Hillington Park Rolls Royce

ROCCO Award for Excellence in Manufacturing sponsored by Scottish Leather Group Diageo

ROCCO Award for Enterprise in Education sponsored by University of the West of ScotlandKirklandneuk Primary School - Kickstart

The Winners from ROCCO 2014 were:

Prof Craig Mahoney, Principal UWS

ROCCO Piper, Russell Campbell

Fred MacAulay, ROCCO host & MC Chamber President, Tom JohnstonROCCO room setup

ROCCO table centres from GreensceneThe Chamber Team

Making leather without costing

the earth.

Scottish Leather Group Limited1 Seedhill, Paisley, PA1 1JL, Scotland

Tel: +44 (0)141 847 4520 Fax: +44 (0)141 848 7246www.scottishleathergroup.com

for handbook 7/11/12 10:12 Page 1



ROCCO Award for Family Business of the Year sponsored by The Malcolm Group G Porrelli & Co

ROCCO Award for Invest in Renfrewshire sponsored by Invest in Renfrewshire / Renfrewshire CouncilMuir Slicer Associates

ROCCO Award for Journey to Zero Waste sponsored by the William Tracey Group Thermo Fisher Scientific

ROCCO Award for Young Business Person of the Year sponsored by West College ScotlandTom Kennett

ROCCO Award for Most Promising New Business sponsored by Business Gateway Saporito

ROCCO Award for International Trade sponsored by Glasgow Airport Peak Scientific


First Aid







Running a growing business in Renfrewshire? Make us part of your plans

For any successful business a network of trusted advisers is vital. Business Gateway Renfrewshire

provides practical support and advice to growing Renfrewshire businesses every year.

0141 585 6353www.bgateway.com

Business Gateway services are delivered by Local Authorities, Scottish Enterprise and Scottish Government with the support of associated partner organisations.

timepieces



ROCCO Award for Outstanding Performing Business >25 staff sponsored by Phoenix Car Glasgow Airport

ROCCO Award for Outstanding Performing Business < 5 staff sponsored by West College ScotlandAnchor Mill Consultancy

ROCCO Award for Employer of the Year sponsored by Rolls Royce Clyde Marine Training

ROCCO Award for Business Leader of the Year sponsored by Diageo Robin MacGeachy, MD of Peak Scientific

ROCCO Award for Outstanding Performing Business <25 staff

sponsored by Renfrewshire CouncilBoyd & Company

ROCCO Award for Community Champion sponsored by RBS & Engage Renfrewshire The Glitter Beach Foundation


First Aid








NATIONAL BACKING






Motor Fleet

Renewables

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Paisley

PA1 1LY

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In addition two special awards were presented on the night. Firstly a special award was presented to the Invest in Renfrewshire Team in recognition of the work they do helping reduce youth unemployment and the support they give to the chamber, its members & local businesses across the county.

The last award of the evening was presented to President Tom Johnston. David Flint, Senior Partner with MacRoberts and long standing Director on the Board in the role as Company Secretary presented Tom with his own Rocco award for Outstanding Commitment to Renfrewshire Chamber as this was Tom’s last Rocco as President. The ROCCO crowd showed their respect and appreciation to Tom with a standing ovation and rousing applause. Chief Executive Bob Davidson then presented Tom with a special keepsake – a bound photobook capturing the many events that

Tom has represented the Chamber over the years, titled “TJ – Chamber President”.

As is customary at the ROCCOs, The crowd were entertained after dinner by local young performers. Allanah Carson, a student at UWS sang Dark Horse by Katy Perry. Jay Fitzpatrick blew the crowd away with his guitar solo rock medley culminating in Status Quo’s Rockin’ All over the World – which the crowd made their own by singing along with “ROCCO all over the world”. The final performer was Heaather Mcdonald who sang At Last by Etta James.

The Rocco raffle raised over £8000 with the 2 main charities benefiting from 50% of the amount being St Vincent’s Hospice and Mary Russell School.

Professor Craig Mahoney, the Principal of ROCCO main sponsor the University of the West of Scotland gave a speech before dinner talking about the ambitious plans he has for the University and the

importance of local business engagement in achieving that strategy.

After the vote of thanks and all the winner photos, the ROCCO crowd celebrated at the after show party late into the night.

Commenting on Rocco 2014, chamber chief exec Bob Davidson said – “going by the comments and feedback we received on the night and after the event, we think that might have been the best Rocco yet. A big thanks to all our sponsors, members and all those involved in making ROCCO 2014 a great success. It was very emotional at the end as Tom was presented with his own special ROCCO award – he has been a great President and ambassador for Renfrewshire – and arguably the hardest working President in the chamber network. Tom has agreed to continue to serve on the Board and the next President will be announced after the AGM just before Christmas.”

For more info on the ROCCOs visit www.roccoawards.com, on twitter with #2014Rocco and all the images from the night are on the Renfrewshire Chamber facebook page


Special award from the Chamber to the Invest in Renfrewshire Team for Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

Special award from the Chamber to President Tom Johnston for Outstanding Commitment to Renfrewshire Chamber

Jay FitzpatrickAllanah Carson Heaather Macdonald


Up and Coming

See our events section on our website: www.renfrewshirechamber.com

0141 847 [email protected]

Events

twitter.com/renfrewshirecoc

facebook.com/renfrewshirechamberofcommerce

Follow the chamber:

Burns LunchThu 29th Jan 2015, Ingliston Country ClubWith Burns speaker, singer, piper & musician

Speed Networking February 2015The Normandy – date tbc

Annual Golf Day 19th June 2015Elderslie GC

ROCCO 201520th Nov 2015 The Normandy with Fred MacAulay

Export DocumentationDid you know we certify 15,000 export documents a year for 70 clients?

Members receive a significant discount. Contact Laura Connor at the Chamber for more info [email protected] / 0141 847 5465

Rooms available for hireat Glasgow Airport

• Ideal for meetings, interviews, training, seminars & workshops• 4 rooms, space for 1-20 people

• Free wifi & free parking• Presentation equipment / catering available

• Price guarantee

Glasgow Airport Business Centrec/o Renfrewshire Chamber

Bute Court, St Andrew’s DriveGlasgow Airport PA3 2SW

0141 847 [email protected] www.renfrewshirechamber.com

AGM & Christmas LunchThu 18th December 2014, The GlynhillAGM 11.30amLunch 12-2.30pm

HR Forum with MacRoberts Free event with lunch 15th January 2015 at the ChamberThe Risks and Benefits of Employees Using their Own Devices for Work Social Media Case Law Update

B2B201514th-15th May 2015, The Lagoon & Paisley Town Hall


Could you offer a young jobseeker work experience?

The Certificate of Work Readiness has been developed for employers, using the key attributes they look for when employing staff. A mixture of work experience and employer assessments lie at the heart of the Certificate and prove that a young person, aged 16 to 19, has reached an employer defined standard.

The certificate has benefits for both employers and employees alike. For employers it has the following key benefits:• Helps employers hire 'job ready' staff• Employer controlled and endorsed

employee development• Support from a training provider• No requirements to pay a wage but

the young person may be eligible for a training allowance.

The Certificate gives a young person the chance to demonstrate the value they can bring to your business. You

can help them earn a certified SQA qualification which shows they have the right work experience for the career they want.

For employees it has the following key benefits:• A foot in the door with employers in

an increasingly difficult employment climate

• Earn an industry recognised SQA accredited qualification upon completion

• Gain work experience.

What's involved?The Certificate takes around ten weeks to complete and includes a minimum of 190 hours work experience. A training provider will offer support to minimise the time you need to spend on the process.

How will it work?A training provider will visit you to

agree what will be expected in the workplace. You should allocate a supervisor who will be aware of the young person's attendance and attitude throughout the placement. You will assess the young person by completing a scorecard at the end of the placement with support from the training provider. A training provider will be on hand to offer support, liaising with the supervisor as required. During the work placement, the young person will visit with the training provider one day a week for follow up work.

To sign up please email [email protected]

CERTIFICATE OF WORK READINESS

David Hoey is a Partner with Chamber member, “bto” Solicitors (Brechin Tindal Oatts) and is a superb ambassador for the Chamber.These sessions are delivered under the Business Mentoring Programme – a partnership between Scottish Chambers and Scottish Enterprise. European funding allows us to offer these sessions to you at no charge, provided you meet the eligibility criteria, which are:

• Turnover of at least £100K, with the plan and ambition to grow

• Been in business for at least 1 year• Not currently involved in the mentoring

programme / nor have been in the last 12 mths

• One person per company – does not need to be the owner – but should be a

key decision maker / responsible person

There are 3 sessions: 12, 19 and 26 January 2015 8.30am-10am at the Chamber• Topic 1: Employment Law Update: Top

20 cases• Topic 2: Employment Law Update: The

main changes in the law to date (and the future)

• Topic 3: Managing a flexible workforce

To register please contact our Business Mentoring Executive, Mark Brown on 0141 847 5458 [email protected]

You can park in the Chamber car park for free – situated directly opposite the Holiday Inn Express (press control

button and say you have a meeting at the Chamber).

Spaces are limited to 10 and are on a first come, first served basis – please book early to avoid disappointment. Non-members are also able to take part.

Free Mentoring Opportunity with David Hoey - Employment Law SpecialistStarting 12th January 2015 at 8.30am - Chamber Business Centre, Glasgow Airport

David Hoey, Partner, Accredited Employment Law Specialist


The Chamber in November was assessed for the Investors in Young People Award (IIYP) and I’m delighted to announce that we were successful in achieving this new accreditation.

I’m delighted the work we do both internally as an organisation and externally with all the initiatives we support, has been recognised. The Board have had a strategic objective of supporting young people as much as we can for a number of years and that starts by leading by example. We have recently started our 5th modern apprentice (with support from Invest in Renfrewshire) - in the role of Management Trainee, Stuart Armstrong and our 2nd MA - Euan Keltie is now a full time member of the team and himself won 2 awards for his work at the Chamber (Special Award from the Renfrewshire Council Modern Apprentice team & winning the 1st Invest in Renfrewshire Progression in Work Award).

The assessment day involved interviewing all the Chamber team, focusing on the younger members and also 3 of the Board including Tom Johnston our President, Audrey Cumberford, Principal of West College Scotland - and the youngest member of our Board, Nick Cohen, himself a young entrepreneur age 24.

Highlights the assessor particularly liked included:• Induction process

for young people - meeting team & board 1-2-1 / handover from previous MA

• Our internal coaching

approach / job shadowing & regular feedback• Young people given real responsibilty• Training & development - our apprentices are supported

through their MA / SVQ 3 in Business & Admin by Renfrewshire Council MA team (in work support from Joyce McLean) & the Chamber supporting Euan through his Business degree at University.

• The passion & energy from the young people themselves

The Chamber was commended also for the extensive amount of work it does externally with young people, including:• Supporting the Recruit• Young Enterprise Renfrewshire Area Company Programme• Our council education / chamber partnership agreement

where all schools are members and we support many of their programmes such as Dragons Den, Primary Engineer, Mission Discovery & Skills Ambassador.• Work experience / in school talks / helping schools get enterprise more into the curriculum & build relations with businesses• Sponsoring & judging various competitions & events at UWS & West College Scotland

We are all very proud of this award - and hope it will encourage our members & other local organisations to do more for young people in Renfrewshire and indeed across Scotland.

To find out more about IIYP please visit - http://www.investorsinpeople.co.uk/investors-young-people

Chamber accredited with Investors in Young People award


January February

March April

JuneMay

Linda Perry retires ExpoRen

50th civic reception

Referendum debate

Chamber Golf Day Euan winning award

Helen Simpson (Accord Hospice) Lunch with Prof Craig Mahoney, UWS

Speed Networking Lunch with Colin Kelly, NSDesign

Mark Brown joins the teamBurns lunch

Lunch with David Hill (Sailing for the disabled)

Lunch with Liz Connolly, West College Scotland

B2B 2014 B2B 2014


July

SeptemberAugust

October

Mission Discovery

Farewell Calum and hello Stuart

Recruit Challenge

Lunch with Mark Hamilton, Peak Scientific Lunch with Adam Mair, Diageo

Ryanair event New members event

Lunch with Ron Easton, Smith & McLaurin Lunch with Prof Donald MacRae, Lloyds Banking Chamber awarded IIYP

Queen’s Baton in Paisley

November


Business Matters (this magazine) is the magazine of Renfrewshire Chamber and is sent to all members, hotels, business centres, receptions and quality coffee shops across Renfrewshire.

Inform readers about: Your new product or service; awards; new office; new member of staff etc…

2,000 copies distributed every quarter, shared online and at all Chamber Events.

Contact Euan Keltie at the Chamber for more info.

[email protected] 0141 847 5464

Inside: B2B 2014 Business Matters in Renfrewshire • Member news

Themes: Education & training • Business support & fi nanceRegular features: Chamber news • Renfrewshire Council & Invest in Renfrewshire update

& lots more...

MattersBusiness

SUMMER 2014 EDITION

HELPING RENFREWSHIRE GROW & PROSPER

Business Matters in Renfrewshire 2014Inside: Paisley Town Centre Asset Strategy • B2B event returns to Paisley

Themes: Construction & Property • Tourism & Leisure • 3rd Sector

Regular features: Chamber news • Schools & young people • Renfrewshire Council &

Invest in Renfrewshire & lots more...

MattersBusiness

SPRING 2014 EDITION

HELPING RENFREWSHIRE GROW & PROSPER

Chamber celebrates

50 yearsin 2014

1964 - 20 1450YEARS

Themes: Export & International Trade • Logistics & TransportRegular features: Chamber News • Renfrewshire Council & Invest in Renfrewshire Update & lots more...

MattersBusiness

AUTUMN 2014 EDITION HELPING RENFREWSHIRE GROW & PROSPER

Chamber celebrates 50 years & ROCCO finalists announced

Get your message out to the Renfrewshire business community

Get your business off to a great start in 2015…Join Renfrewshire Chamber before the end of January and save 25%Access discounted products & services including:

• networking events • marketing channels • business mentor • lobbying • HR & legal • health • export documentation • merchant services • meeting rooms

Renfrewshire Chamber “Helping Renfrewshire grow & prosper since 1964”

www.renfrewshirechamber.comContact Bob Grant, Deputy Chief Exec’ on 0141 847 [email protected]

New mem

bers get 1st

networking for free and

content in our magazine


New MembersOn behalf of the Board of Directors and the Chamber staff we would like to welcome onboard the following new members.A.B.F.M.Arthur BeverlyFinancial Services0141 956 [email protected]

Business GatewayGraeme CurrieBusiness Gateway advisory services0141 530 [email protected]

Childcare FirstKelly HegartyCharity Nursery0141 848 [email protected],com

Citrus AssociatesLinda GalvinTraining Provider/Coaching0780 723 [email protected]

Diane Mitchell Music SchoolDiane MitchellMusic School0789 668 [email protected]

First Data Merchant SolutionsNicola DochertyMerchant Services0795 759 [email protected]

Kenneth Keegan Independent Funeral DirectorsKenneth KeeganFuneral Directors0141 889 6351info@keeganfuneraldirectors.co.ukwww.keeganfuneraldirectors.co.uk

Kieran AitkenCar Wash Service07970 [email protected]

L1 LDG LtdLinzi GrahamBusiness Sercvices07967 [email protected]

Mirren Park School (Mirren Park) LtdMartyn CoshAdditional Support School0141 404 [email protected]

Oakmonts Property LtdLouise KaneEstate Agency/[email protected]

Property Nation LtdArshi IlyasCar parks0141 212 [email protected]

Roar - Connections For LifeNicola HanssenCharity0141 889 [email protected]

The Business PartnershipAlan KinghornBusiness Transfer Agents0345 260 0000kinghorn@business-partnership.comwww.business-partnership.com

Zen SalonKarla TeazBeauty Salon0141 887 [email protected]


Paisley could be in line for a new theatre and cinema as part of ambitious plans connected to the proposed bid for UK City of Culture 2021.

A new group – called Paisley 2021 Community Trust – has been formed with the aim of working with Renfrewshire Council on plans for the new venue.

A feasibility study into new theatre space was one of the flagship projects outlined in the Paisley Heritage Regeneration Strategy unveiled by the council earlier this year, which aims to use culture to transform the town over the next decade.

The trust – which has just secured incorporated charity status – is now developing ideas and a business case for the possible theatre and cinema.

They will also be speaking to key partners over how the facility could be delivered, as well as developing a funding strategy.

The new body will be chaired by asset management expert Gary Kerr, with computer games entrepeneur Andy Campbell and PACE Theatre director David Wallace as trustees.

Gary Kerr, who runs local firm EPM Solutions, said: “When the council unveiled the Paisley Heritage Regeneration Strategy earlier this year, they asked for community groups to come forward and take part in the process.

“We have offered to look at that strand of the strategy because we are very committed to the idea of a theatre and cinema in Paisley town centre.

“It is something that Paisley should have as part of the City of Culture bid, and we are really passionate about what this idea could become.

“We would stress these plans are at a very early stage, no sites have yet been earmarked, and substantial funding will be needed.

“But the first step will be to speak to key stakeholders to see where the

facility could be and what should be in it.”

Other flagship projects discussed as part of the Paisley Heritage Regeneration Strategy include a major refurbishment of Paisley Museum and the creation of a Paisley Fashion and Design Centre on the High Street.

Experts estimate if the plans were to come to fruition, they would boost the local economy by £45m a year and create up to 800 new jobs.

Renfrewshire Council Leader Mark Macmillan added: “Although the council is taking forward the heritage strategy and UK City of Culture bid, we have always said the regeneration process is bigger than anything we can do on our own – it will only happen if Paisley’s people and institutions get behind it and help us make it happen.

“So we want the community to share ownership of the plans and I commend

Gary, Andy and David for being willing to put themselves forward and do that.

“Council staff will now be working with the Paisley 2021 Community Trust on more detailed work into the feasibility of a theatre and cinema in the town centre.

“I believe Paisley has the potential to become a centre of excellence in creative industries, and that a new theatre could help host the explosion in activity a City of Culture bid will bring.

“Plus, Paisley’s heritage is at the heart of what we will be selling to the world and one element of that is the town’s rich history of cinema.

“Many people will have fond memories of venues such as the old Kelburne – but with no dedicated cinema in the town centre since it shut in 1997, it would be great to see a facility for future generations to enjoy.”

Town could get new theatre and cinema for City of Culture bid

Cllr Mark Macmillan, Gary Kerr, Andy Campbell & David Wallace


Renfrewshire’s Interns Make More Good NewsSince Invest in Renfrewshire’s first graduate intern started work in June, 2012, the programme has gone from strength to strength. The scheme gives graduates work experience and their employers get subsidised supported staff with fresh skills lots of enthusiasm.

To date, 135 local unemployed graduates, from a wide range of disciplines have joined businesses throughout the area. Kuka Studios in Lochwinnoch and Hillington’s Create Ts and Cs are latest companies to take part.

Already, 90 graduates have completed their internships and their progress is impressive; 70 have found jobs and nine have returned to education.

Businesses who might benefit from some recently-acquired expertise and youthful zeal can visit investinrenfrewshire.com for more information.

Investing in Renfrewshire’s Social EnterprisesInvest in Renfrewshire now has a new team member who is working to support and develop Renfrewshire’s social enterprises. The council has also allocated funds to help them grow.

Social enterprises are not driven by delivering profits to owners or shareholders; instead they aim to reinvest any profits in the community or back into the business. In other respects, however, a social enterprise is a business like any other; facing the same issues and challenges as a private company.

Renfrewshire Council’s Social Enterprise grant is a funding programme offering small grants to organisations whose annual income is up to £500,000. They can submit applications, at any time, for grants of up to £5,000 to help them to become more enterprising; to develop their organisation; to undertake feasibility or consultancy work for larger projects; pilot or develop new products or services and create positive economic impacts.

To find out more about the council’s support for social enterprise, please contact Invest in Renfrewshire on 0141 618 4290. The council also offers a wide range of grants and support for private companies. Please visit investinrenfrewshire.com for more information.

We have a range of funding packages available which could help your company, including:

• business growth grants of up to £10,000 to help develop new products, attend exhibitions, purchase equipment or carry out property improvements;

• help of up to £5,000 to help you take on a graduate intern;

• support towards the wage costs of taking on a young unemployed person; and

• loans to help with working capital or the purchase of equipment.

Calling all Renfrewshire businesses. We can help fund your growth.

Invest in Renfrewshire is Renfrewshire Council’s programme to boost the local economy

and tackle unemployment.

Want to know more?

visit

www.investinrenfrewshire.com

email

[email protected]

or call

0300 300 1180


On 28 October, Hillington Park became Scotland’s first Simplified Planning Zone.

This means that Hillington will benefit from new planning freedom to alter and extend existing facilities; build new premises to suit modern, growing and incoming businesses; and be home to different types of commercial, retail and leisure businesses.

Hillington’s SPZ status is expected to create 2,800 new full time jobs and to boost the local economy by £217m / year over a ten year period.

Councillor Mark Macmillan, Leader of Renfrewshire Council, sees the Simplified Planning Zone as modernising move, ‘Ultimately, this is about growth and jobs. By freeing up what is already an ideal location, Hillington can offer bespoke, flexible and quick solutions to businesses’ needs. Now the Park and Renfrewshire are even better positioned to benefit from our pivotal location and from the opportunities that the City Deal will bring.’

Hillington Park has so long been part

of Renfrewshire life that it easy to take its significance for granted. Today’s announcement is the latest example of how Hillington responds to the demands of its times.

1937 Hillington North opened as Scotland’s first industrial estate. Acts of Parliament in 1934 and 1937, created Special Areas of Scotland with particular support for industries whose growth would help to counter effects of the inter-war depression. Hillington, the first site to take advantage of Special Area status, offered a new sort of ‘garden city’ work place away from the congestion and pollution associated with Glasgow.

1939 As World War II threatened, Hillington was identified as the perfect site for a ‘shadow’ aero engine factory making Rolls Royce Merlin engines to power Spitfires and Hurricanes. Right at the outside limit of a German bombers’ range, 25,000 workers produced as many as 400 Merlin engines every week. Hillington was photographed by German reconnaissance but was never bombed. Rolls Royce continued production at the

Park until 2003 when it moved to more modern premises at Inchinnan

For the second half of the 20th Century, Hillington Park clearly reflected wider trends in the Scottish economy with service industries growing as manufacturing declined. In the 1990s, it moved from public to private ownership and was then extensively redeveloped, upgraded, and environmentally improved to suit the 21st century. Hillington Park Innovation Centre is specifically designed for new-start high-technology companies.

Hillington is now owned by Patrizia UK Ltd who, in the best of innovative spirits, has worked closely with Renfrewshire and Glasgow Councils to develop the Simplified Planning Zone and keep up the Park’s commitment to progress and growth. Both councils see Hillington Park as a key element in the region’s economic development. As Councillor Macmillan says, “This is what can happen when enterprising businesses and proactive planners work together and it is already an achievement of which we can be proud.”

HILLINGTON’S SIMPLIFIED PLANS FOR 2,800 JOBS

Leader Renfrewshire Council – Cllr Mark Macmillan, Hillington Park Commercial Director Jamie Cumming and Leader Glasgow City Council Cllr Gordon Matheson


Paisley Town Centre Businesses gave a huge thumbs up to the creation of a Business Improvement District (BID) in Paisley town centre when the ballot result was announced on 14th November 2014. Some 81% of those that voted did so in favour of creating the BID for a 5 year term which is a massive vote of confidence and will make Paisley the third largest BID after the city centres of Edinburgh and Aberdeen.

The result was met with rapturous applause at the Chamber’s ROCCOs Dinner and will mean the creation of a new Company to deliver the Business Plan between 2015 and 2020. A new Board of Directors will be elected from the town centre business community prior to Christmas and the staff will be appointed in the New Year. Each town centre business will make its own contribution by way of a BID levy which will raise £356,000 per annum and £1.78m over the 5 year term of the BID which will allow the BID Business Plan to be delivered.

Paisley’s BID is the 28th BID in Scotland and joins the ranks of over 180 BIDs in the UK all of which are delivering projects, initiatives and add value to the business communities that they operate in. This reinforces the BID mantra: “For Business, By Business”. “Paisley First”, the name of the BID organisation, will deliver projects that aim to tackle the RIP factors – Reputation, Image and Perception – and deliver value back to businesses in five key areas of priority :• First Impressions Count : Clean, Safe and

Welcoming• Bringing Life to Paisley : Marketing, Promotions

and Events• Property and the High Street : Addressing

Vacant Property Issues• Helping Businesses : Business Support• Providing a Business Voice : Advocacy

For more information email Sunil Varu, Paisley BID Development Manager, at [email protected] or visit www.paisleyfirst.com

Historic “YES” result for Paisley First – an extra £1.78m for Paisley town centre


Business matters, so when it comes to events call Cameron’s - The Event People.

Renfrewshire Council has announced the appointment of Sandra Black as its next Chief Executive.

Sandra is the current Director of Finance and Corporate Services at the council. She will take up the post of Chief Executive from 1 December.

Councillor Mark Macmillan, leader of Renfrewshire Council, said: “We interviewed a high-quality selection of candidates and the calibre of applicant for the post reflects well on the strength of our organisation and the level of interest in what we’re striving to achieve here in Renfrewshire.

“We have ambitious plans for Renfrewshire and its people - Sandra was the outstanding candidate to lead the council’s services in making sure that everything possible is done to achieve those ambitions.

Sandra began her local government career with Central Regional Council in 1982 before joining Renfrewshire Council. She has been a director of Renfrewshire Council for the past nine years.

Sandra said: “It’s a tremendous opportunity and a great privilege to be taking up the post of Chief Executive.

“Like others in local government, we face some difficult and complex issues around employability, poverty, inequality, economic regeneration and support for our most vulnerable.

“I believe that, here in Renfrewshire, we have the vision and values in place to address these issues. The challenge now for our organisation is to work with partners and deliver high-quality public services that make a difference in people’s lives.”

New Chief Executive to take charge at council Sandra Black


Equipped specifically to process ever larger components in the oil and gas industry, the UK’s largest curing oven of its kind has been unveiled at the opening of Surface Technology’s new site in Renfrew, Scotland.

The prestigious launch took place at the leading specialist supplier of high performance surface treatment’s newly acquired premises on Westway Park, Scotland’s largest fully enclosed industrial distribution and office park.

Surface Technology, part of Norman Hay plc, invested in the new site to meet increasing customer demand following significant contract wins.

It was opened by the CEO of Norman Hay plc, Vic Bellanti and Derek Mackay, MSP. Other attendees included David Rennie from Scottish Enterprise, who have provided funding for Surface Technology to develop their existing Scottish operations, along with other Westway Park members and around 50 Surface Technology customers including One Subsea, X-Cel Superturn, FMC Technologies, Oil States Industries and Sheffield Forgemasters Engineering Limited.

Derek Mackay MSP for Renfrewshire North & West said: “Surface Technology is a leading global player and it is pleasing to see development at this new state-of-the-art facility at Westway Park. Already it is bringing additional investment and jobs to Renfrewshire and the west of Scotland.

“Surface Technology’s investment in this site, as well as further development

at East Kilbride will enable the company to service and support the changing infrastructure, technologies and capability demanded by the offshore oil & gas industry.”

Where previously key components such as length adjustment joints (LAJ’s) and riser systems from UK customers would have needed to be shipped overseas for coating, the new 30,000 square ft. site now allows for this work to be carried out locally avoiding major transportation costs. It includes a 100 tonne overhead crane, a 45 ft. long curing oven and a 45 ft. shot-blasting room designed to move ever larger components with very long, one-piece joints for the deep-water offshore oil and gas industry. Thermal spray aluminium, paint, phosphating, molycote, sermguard and xlylan processes can all be carried out on-site.

Welcoming Surface Technology to Westway, Mark Holmes, fund manager of park owner Moorfield Group said: “This deal underlines Surface Technology’s commitment to Westway, as the preferred location to facilitate continued expansion for the business in Scotland. The park continues to attract high-

profile occupiers who are seeing quality premises and excellent communication links, along with competitive and flexible terms. We firmly believe in continually investing in Westway and, as well as an ongoing programme of improvement works, we also look forward to the completion of our £1.3m dock development project in early 2015.”

Vic Bellanti added: “Surface Technology has invested in this new site specifically to service and support the changing infrastructure, technologies and capability required by the offshore oil and gas industry and renewable energy industries.

“It was great to see so many businesses turn out to support us in Renfrew, and Westway Park has been great in ensuring that all of our needs have been met. We look forward to working with both our existing and new oil and gas customers and showcasing the great potential that this site has for the industry.”

For more information on Surface Technology visit: www.surfacetechnology.co.uk

For more information on Westway Park visit: www.westway-park.com

NEW OCCUPIER AT WESTWAY PARK, RENFREWSURFACE TECHNOLOGY ‘CURES’ CUSTOMER’S LARGE COMPONENT NEEDS WITH 45 FT. OVEN AT NEW SCOTTISH SITE

Armourcote 3000 Series

INTRODUCTION

Armourcote 3000 is an electroless nickel co-deposit containing 10-20% by volume of PTFE in a high phosphorous nickel matrix.

The deposition method is autocatalytic i.e. chemical reduction of nickel ions by hypophosphite compounds. Because the deposit is applied without an electric current its thickness is uniform on all areas.

Armourcote 3000 gives a low coefficient of friction in sliding applications. It gives low wear rates where forces are low in metal to metal contact.

FEATURES

• Low coefficient of friction

• Suitable for use in the food industry

• Excellent adhesion to most metals

PROPERTIES

Armourcote 3000

Coating Thickness 2.5 - 15µm

Coefficient of Friction 01 to 0.3

Temperature Range To 350 °C

Food compatability Good - if the coating is sintered at 400 °C there will will be no products in the coating that are not food compatible

Chemical resistance Can be applied where corrosion protection is needed if applied over a Electroless Nickel base layer

Bond Strength 300-400 MPa (40-60 KSi)

APPLICATIONS

Food and Beverage, rubbers and plastics release, vibratory conveyors and drying cylinders.

www.surfacetechnology.co.uk

Datasheet

CEO Vic Bellanti and Derek Mackay MSP


It’s that time of year again, when we business owners look back on the year past and consider how well our business has performed and create aspirations for the next.

It’s useful to ask yourself these simple questions:• How well did my marketing strategy achieve my business

objectives in 2014? • What specific marketing activities brought the best results?• What are my business goals for 2015? (be ambitious!)• What marketing and business development activities are going

to help me achieve these?

If you have a management team, schedule a time to discuss these collectively. If it’s all down to you, set aside some quiet time to focus on these.

Write down your answers and use these to create an action plan for the next 12 months.

It makes sense to do more of what worked well and less of what didn’t bring the results that you wanted.

Take each goal individually and work out what marketing activities will fit best.

And don’t be afraid to try something new! There are literally hundreds of different marketing activities available.

Maybe 2015 will be the year that you start looking for speaking opportunities to demonstrate your expertise in your field? Or

Award winning Glaswegian Young Entrepreneur Nick Cohen, 24, has just sold a large stake in his near 11 year old business to another local company, Abica. PCR, who provide IT support to businesses across the UK, are now operating as part of the Abica Telecoms Group who provide Telecoms solutions to the same market. Nick says ‘this is a match made in heaven, the businesses have aligned principles and already share quite a few clients’.

Nick first started his business in 2004, fixing PCs from his bedroom (literally!). Throughout his time at High School, Nick grew the business with the support from his Mum and Dad. Following High School, Nick enjoyed a short stint at Strathclyde University before leaving to focus on his

business full time. In 2009 Nick opened his first repair centre in the Southside of Glasgow, serving the public. Alongside this, Nick formed PCR, a business to business IT provider. In 2011, the repair service expanded into the Merchant City and was subsequently purchased in 2012 leaving Nick in control of PCR. Nick saw this exit from PC Repair as well timed, the repair sector was and still is in decline.

Since 2012, PCR has enjoyed two years of serious growth with 2014 representing a 10 fold increase in profits. Nick is very excited to times ahead. He says ‘Abica will support our further UK wide expansion which has been an ambition of mine for some time. I’m also excited that we’ll be growing our team from our head office in Glasgow, with a focus on graduate placements in 2015 and 2016’.

We’ve been providing goal driven, joined up business development consultancy for 20 years.

Throughout January, we’re offering Renfrewshire businesses a marketing audit/review for just £75*

(value £250).

Make 2015 your best business year yet!

Contact Evelyn Laurie 01505 702392 • [email protected]

*vat applies

really embrace social media? Or carry out a client feedback survey to find out what your clients truly value (or not!) about your business?

Be bold and make 2015 your best year in business yet!As a special New Year gift, I’m offering a marketing audit and

review to Renfrewshire businesses throughout January for just £75 (value £250).

Contact Evelyn Laurie, 01505 702392, [email protected]

RING OUT THE OLD, RING IN THE NEW...

24 Year Old Sells Stake in IT Company

Nick Cohen


Together, we are

www.hillingtonpark.com

Great Transport Links • Full Range of Property Options • Park Management Team • Amenities • Sustainability

0141 883 5760

Accommodation TO LETCall the Hillington Park team on

As Scotland’s largest and most establishedBusiness Park, Hillington Park is a safe, wellmaintained environment with two train stations,two minutes from the motorway and two milesfrom Glasgow International Airport.

Hillington Park has been home to some of the most innovative companies in Scotland for many years and its Innovation Centre currently hosts some of the most exciting technology businesses around.

With specialist business advisers, ICS, on site to support the growth of these exciting companies, Hillington Park’s reputation for being the place for technology and innovation remains high.

Jamie Cumming, Commercial Director at Hillington Park said: “From the day that Hillington Park opened more than 75 years ago there has been innovation at its heart. Throughout that time, businesses here have been creating and delivering technology across the world.”

DragonByte Technologies, set up in 2011 by Iain Kidd, 26, and Fillip Hannisdal, 27, and who can now boast a large customer base in the USA and Germany, are a strong example of a new business developing and growing at Hillington Park.

The company creates computer programmes for company websites including chat systems, support ticketing functions and social media integration.The ICS advisory service focuses on key elements of support including:• Securing Investment and Funding Packages• Commercialisation Advice• Business Modelling and Planning • Growing Your Team• Access to a wealth of contacts in the tech sector

Companies within the Innovation centre have access to state-of-the-art facilities and a ready-made community of like-minded entrepreneurs.

Jamie Cumming added: “Our commitment to supporting this sector is reflected in our sponsorship of the Innovation and Technology category in the Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce ROCCO Business Awards.”

New Service Launched to Help Park Businesses Grow


Answer: Yes, they’re all chamber members but they’ve also all put their trust in NSDesign to help them develop a social media presence.

The fact is we LOVE working with our wide client base and while the names listed above are all well known fairly large organisations we also regularly work with new starts and sole traders.

Some business owners worry they’re being left behind by this digital revolution. There’s no need to panic, in fact taking your time to get going with social media is no bad thing. It means there are several years of good, and bad, examples for your to learn from before sending out your first Tweet.

We think social media goes hand in hand with enhanced customer service, good communication both internal and external and a crystal clear vision of who you are and what you’re all about.

In an ideal world, activity should be led from the top down and take in staff at all levels across all departments. Consider some training and perhaps a style guide to ensure a consistent tone and guidance to deal with problems and criticism, and your social media presence can very quickly become a valuable resource that grows the business and that everyone is proud of.

It might even throw up some unexpected new opportunities.

Interested but not sure what to say? We’re here to help.

Contact Colin Kelly at NSDesign by emailing [email protected] or call 0141 585 6390.

Social Media For Every Business...With NSDesign

Colin Kelly, NSDesign

Question: What do Glasgow Airport, Scottish Leather Group, Braehead Clan, Campbell Dallas and West College Scotland have in common?


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Established for 20 years and one of Scotland’s leading independent software design, development and support consultancies, IRW Systems is now working in close partnership with local Higher Education institute, University of the West of Scotland, to research which skills and qualifications the IT industry requires when employing graduates.

The University of the West of Scotland School of Computing Industrial Board (IAB) is a group of academics, administrative staff, and students from UWS as well as representatives from the IT industry. All bring their experience and expertise to influence the content and structure of the UWS degree programme provision.

Working specifically with the

Computing Industrial Advisory Board at UWS, IRW will demonstrate which techniques and skill sets are the most beneficial for students to learn, which will in turn allow UWS to create courses that are up to date and relevant.

“I am delighted to be working in partnership with IRW to greatly enhance the student experience on my degree programme. Through the likes of site visits, guest lectures, short placements, group projects and industry-focused seminars, IRW is providing my students with opportunities to enhance their employability and to see, hear about and experience a real world environment that relates directly to their future career.” Tom Caira, BSc Business Technology Programme Leader UWS

This partnership will involve student

site visits to the IRW Systems offices, where they will have the opportunity to witness various business processes and see what it is like to work with a software solutions organisation. This will also allow students to gain an insight into the potential job roles open to them after graduating from UWS.

We will be presenting a guest lecture at UWS where we can share IRW’s own experiences of creating custom solutions for our diverse range of clients.

IRW is thrilled to be given the opportunity to contribute to our local area, students and economy.

If you would like further information regarding IRW Systems or this partnership, please contact Rachel Stewart at [email protected] or call 0141 889 3088.

The law of defamation gives individuals or companies certain rights to take action where they believe their reputation has been damaged. Given the importance of reputation management within the public relations/marketing/brand management arena, defamation is a particularly important area of the law for PR and marketing professionals to understand.

Defamation, in simple terms, describes any broadcast or statement or publication which is false and lowers a person in the estimation of a right-thinking member of the public. It also requires to be communicated – which covers a huge range of media channels. In Scots Law, the concepts of malicious falsehood and slander of title often come into any discussion on defamation but these are distinct offences which come with their own nuances.

On the surface, the recent Defamation Act 2013 has changed little within Scotland directly but an impact is sure to be felt as a range of new measures are to be implemented south of the border,

including a serious harm test, an altered honest opinion defence and a defence for operators of websites, all of which now go beyond that provided for in Scotland. Here, it remains the case that where an allegation of defamation has been made, defences might include veritas i.e. that the statement is true or fair comment or relies upon qualified or absolute privilege.

As the means by which reputation is managed and challenged and platforms for doing so evolve PR and marketing professionals must balance the opportunities that new and innovative digital and non-digital practices present with regard to the do’s and don’t of defamation – to be unaware of the risks may damage a brand beyond repair or cost a lot in damages and costs.

Over the recent past we have seen a number of cases where politicians and others have got themselves into bother (in some cases having to resign) as a result of things they have said on line. Don’t forget that just because it is on social media or the internet does not mean that the normal rules of defamation etc. will not

apply. Indeed, due to the geographic reach of such technologies the potential harm may be greater and more immediate.

Every business needs to have policies in place to advise employees what they can and cannot do and to minimise potential damage to reputation.

Euan Duncan, Partner, IPTC Group, MacRoberts LLP

IRW Partners with local University, UWS

PR and Understanding Defamation


Eleven pupils from across Renfrewshire, all participants in this summer’s popular Mission Discovery space school, visited science laboratories at the University of West of Scotland to see their winning experiments being built. The experiments, the first from Scotland to make it into orbit, will be launched into space next year and conducted by astronauts living on the International Space Station.

Over 200 S3-S5 pupils took part in this summer’s special week-long space school led by former NASA astronauts Ken and Michelle Ham. Julie Keeble, lecturer in pharmacology at Kings College, London, spoke to the pupils at UWS and witnessed their experiments. Julie said, “The pupils were asked to come up with an idea for an experiment worthy of astronaut time up in the space station. The winning ideas show creative thought and innovation and are well-deserving of their journey up to the space station.”

Councillor Jacqueline Henry, Convener of Renfrewshire Council’s Education Policy Board, said: “Mission Discovery has been such an inspiration to school pupils in Renfrewshire and it’s great to see the pupils here today watching their ideas come to life. To put this achievement into context, it costs around $25,000 to send 1 kilogramme of material to the International Space Station.“Studying science subjects can be a route into a successful career in many different industries and we’ll continue working with partners to offer exciting initiatives that engage young people and enhance their studies. I’m delighted to say that Mission Discovery will return this summer and another group of pupils will get this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see their ideas go into orbit!”

Elese Watson (15) from St Benedict’s Secondary School, said, “It’s an absolute honour to be involved with this! We started working on these experiments in July and spent about five days working up the initial ideas. It’s incredible to think that our work will be the first experiments from Scotland to go into space.” Professor Craig Mahoney, Principal & Vice-Chancellor of University of the West of Scotland, said, “We are extremely proud of our role as an educational

sponsor of Mission Discovery and were delighted to host this event at our Paisley Campus. “The importance of promoting science, engineering, technology and mathematics based subjects and nurturing our best talent in these areas cannot be underestimated and this project will go a long way in achieving this goal.”

Renfrewshire is just one of two areas, involved in the Mission Discovery project, that are sending more than one experiment up to the International Space Station. The Renfrewshire experiments involve testing the feasibility of producing oxygen from cactus plants. Oxygen is a vital space resource providing fuel for rockets and breathable air for astronauts. The cactus was chosen for its durability, its low water consumption and its ability

to photosynthesize in the dark. The other experiment involves examining the impact of microgravity on the staphylococci and streptococci organisms responsible for bacterial conjunctivitis.

Mission Discovery is part of a range of initiatives designed to enhance young people’s studies in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM subjects). The initiative is sponsored by the University of the West of Scotland and West College Scotland, which are working with Renfrewshire Council to establish Renfrewshire as a centre of STEM excellence.

Renfrewshire Chamber were delighted to support this in 2014 and are working behind the scenes encouraging other businesses to get involved for 2015 & beyond.

Science kids set experiments for blast-off

PR and Understanding Defamation


Linwood High School was over the moon to welcome guests from a wide range of businesses in the Linwood area to take part in a careers speed networking event for 2nd year pupils on 14th November.

Huge thanks to Pauline Stevenson from Mosswood Care Home, Kirsty Wainwright from NCT Leather, Craig Martin from

Glasgow Airport, Stuart Hay from Renfrewshire Council, John Bowles from A+D Logistics, David Mackay from St. Mirren, Balfour Beatty, Carlis Kindergarden. Educational for pupils and our guests!

Skills Development Scotland Event for 3rd year pupils in Linwood High School welcomed guests from Scottish Leather Group to talk about Modern Apprenticeships. Huge thanks to Hugh Gilmore, Kirsty Townsend and to Modern Apprentice Fraser.

School updates:

As part of Brediland Primary’s Enterprise Week, the focus on skills for life culminated with Careers Day which was split into two sessions. During the morning session, ten volunteers from various working backgrounds participated in a Hot Seating session where they would answer questions and discuss aspects of their jobs. During the week, the children worked with their peers from across the school to produce a list of appropriate questions. As well as those shown in the pictures, we were also joined by a Detective Chief Inspector, a Child Development Officer, a Joiner, a Project Manager, a Careers Advisor, a Programme Manager, a Student and an Employability Officer. As you can see from the photo above, the children gave the morning session a huge thumbs up.

The children in the ACE Base organised a Pop Up Cafe for staff where they planned, budgeted, shopped, made and sold filled rolls as part of Enterprise Week. The children of the base were delighted to make a £30 profit which they kindly donated to the P7 Poppy Appeal.

The focus for the afternoon session was to provide practical opportunities for the children to gain firsthand experience of various work remits. We were joined by volunteers from the West College Scotland, Hair and makeup artists, Constructions Skills, a Computer Programmer, the University of West Scotland, Into Film Project Leader and a Performance Reader. The children embraced the opportunity of learning new skills as well as working with the various professionals that dedicated their time to help inspire our future workforce.

Linwood High School

Focus on Careers Day


At the start of this year the children in Primary 7 at Newmains Primary were introduced to the idea of how social enterprise businesses could benefit communities.

They decided that they would like to start their own social enterprise within the school and put together a business plan which included information about costs, projected sales and how they would attract customers. The children chose to support the

British Heart Foundation with some of the profits they made and put the rest of the money back into the business. In addition the café is also a Fairtrade business, using Fairtrade ingredients in the scones they make and selling Fairtrade coffee and tea. Being an Eco school with 4 green flags, the children were keen to make sure that we had reusable dishes and cutlery in the café rather than disposable ones so they have to do the washing up too!

Primary 4 and Primary 3/4 at Kirklandneuk Primary have taken part in the Micro-Tyco challenge for the month of November! This is where, in groups of 5, the pupils were given a pound and generated business ideas in order for that amount to grow! The pupils have worked extremely hard to make items to sell and have developed their entrepreneurial skills.

We have learned lots of skills related to business, including buying, selling and advertising our products!

Our business ideas included:• Iced biscuit stall• Magical Mystery Juice stall• Personalised Keyrings• Design your own or pre

made badges• Personalised bookmarks

The pupils, along with the teachers, Miss Fulton and Mrs Irving would like to extend their thanks for the raffle prizes which were generously donated by local businesses.

After a month of hard sales, the pupils turned their initial £11 investment into an outstanding £1001.06 in profits. All the monies will be donated to the Wild Hearts Foundation to support entrepreneurs in third world countries.

Kickstart is a Social Enterprise business run by the Primary 7 pupils at Kirklandneuk Primary School in Renfrew, along with their teachers Louise O'Brien and Clare McCurdy. The business has run successfully for over a year, offering affordable, friendly and high intensity exercise classes for the local community.

The children have undertaken a range of training to equip them with the necessary skills to deliver the classes to the community. The weekly Kickstart fitness class involves: an aerobic warm up, devised and led by the pupils, 12 circuit stations, including muscular, cardiovascular and strengthening exercises and an instructor-led cool down. The classes have received very positive feedback from customers and we continually use this to improve our service. All profits are re-invested and the children purchased weights including kettle bells, body bars and dumb bells. Kickstart has won three fantastic awards including a Scottish Education Award which highlights the fantastic achievements of our talented and enterprising pupils and, most recently, were honoured to win a ROCCO Award.

Time for Tea at The Truly Scrumptious Café in Newmains Primary

Micro Tyco

WINNERENTERPRISE IN EDUCATION

Kickstart

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