Celebrate your loved one this Father’s Day with an unforgettable Turnberry experience. Treat him to world-class golf, delicious dining, a luxurious overnight stay or a relaxing spa treatment.
For a truly memorable day, join us for our Father’s Day Pairs Event, where you can tee off together on the iconic King Robert the Bruce course.
To Register: turnberry.info/fathersdaygolfevent
To Purchase a Gift Voucher Visit: turnberry.info/GiftVouchers
The British Chambers of Commerce has launched its Digital Revolution report outlining a framework to create a connected, dynamic and secure future for UK businesses.
Among the recommendations are:
- Government should appoint an AI champion for SMEs who will help spearhead a programme to improve business use of artificial intelligence.
- Government should explore social tariffs for lower-income areas, to enable more people to access broadband services – including small businesses.
- Wireless Network infrastructure should be strengthened through a pro-investment policy framework supported by a planning regime that unlocks the UK’s 5G ambitions.
- The government should work with the insurance industry to create a reinsurance pool that underwrites cyber risk for business.
The Digital Revolution report is a key part of the BCC’s Election Manifesto focusing on the ‘Future of the Economy’ published last week. It draws on expertise from businesses of all sizes, academia, Chambers and think-tanks.
The report outlines a series of clear asks from policymakers on broadband, wireless connectivity, cyber security and AI.
Martha Lane Fox, President of the British Chambers of Commerce and Chair of the Business Council, said:
“The pace of technological change is speeding up, not slowing down. That’s a fantastic opportunity for business.
“Our report calls on the next government to put energy into the further modernisation and digitisation of the UK. Not just for the few but, for everyone.
“We need rocket boosters under high-speed broadband rollout. A fast, reliable and affordable connection is now fundamental for every company. They also need support to deal with cyber security which is both a daunting prospect and a pressing risk for companies.
“We need a sustained commitment from all politicians to make sure that the UK – through its amazing businesses – keeps pace in the fast-moving digital world.”
Priya Guha MBE, Venture Partner at Merian Ventures and Chair of the Digital Revolution Challenge Group said:
“Our report focuses on four related areas – broadband, wireless connectivity, cyber security and AI.
“Every company now needs to be digital, and these four areas are the foundations for competitive and productive businesses. And they are also areas where the government can play an important role in helping firms.
“Without the basics of fast broadband, connectivity on the move and cyber risk protection – businesses won’t even be equipped to start exploring how they can benefit from the exciting world of AI.
“The ever-changing world of technology is of huge strategic importance to business. Both for their own future, and the future of an innovative economy in the UK where all companies thrive.”
Award-winning chartered financial planning firm, AAB Wealth, has today announced the acquisition of Synergy Financial Planning, based in Bishopbriggs, Central Scotland.
Having experienced year-on-year growth since the firm was established in 2011, following this latest acquisition, AAB Wealth will have assets under advice (AUA) in excess of £800 million. The combined team of 37 are spread across Scotland, England and Northern Ireland, all of whom are dedicated to helping families and individuals plan for their future.
The Synergy Financial Planning business led by David Neely, supports over 200 families across Central Scotland and shares the same evidence-based approach to investing as AAB Wealth.
Andrew Dines, Head of AAB Wealth, commented: “Synergy Financial Planning is a fantastic addition to our expanding team. David has been instrumental driving the growth of the business and his approach to financial planning and client support match perfectly with our philosophy. I look forward to welcoming David and his team to AAB Wealth to continue delivering the very best financial planning advice for our clients.”
David Neely, owner and Financial Planner at Synergy Financial Planning added: “This is a truly exciting next chapter for our team and clients. Synergy and AAB Wealth have the same ethos. Developing long-lasting relationships which deliver the best outcomes in helping our clients to get the most out of life lies at the heart of what we do. The transition for Synergy Financial Planning clients will be seamless, as both of our firms utilise the same platforms and systems to support clients to achieve their financial goals.”
The team from Synergy Financial Planning will join AAB Wealth with immediate effect and will remain based in their office in Bishopbriggs.
This marks the second acquisition for AAB Wealth following the announcement of Kilkee Financial Planning in January 2023. AAB Wealth was awarded the PFS Financial Planning Firm of the Year accolade for 2023, and has recently been announced as a VouchedFor top-rated firm for 2024.
Over £80,000 was raised for a disabled children’s charity during its annual star-studded fundraising ball at the weekend.
Almost 300 people turned out for the Secret Garden-themed black-tie affair, The Yard’s Big Fun Raiser, at Prestonfield House Hotel, Edinburgh on Saturday 1 June 2024, raising funds through tickets, a raffle and silent auction.
The Yard works with children and young people aged 0-25 with Additional Support Needs through adventure play sessions in Edinburgh, Dundee and Kirkcaldy. The service offers creative and inclusive play experiences in a well-supported environment, alongside wraparound support for the whole family, with a varied programme of drop-in, respite and transition youth clubs, early years, specialist sessions with schools, family play sessions, plus inclusive play and disability training.
Celine Sinclair, CEO of The Yard, said, “Since opening our secret garden at Canonmills in, Edinburgh, our dreams have taken root and flourished. We’ve grown, extending our arms to over 2600 young people annually across Edinburgh, Dundee and Fife. Now, we’re actively working towards spreading our unique model of family support and service excellence even further across Scotland. Thanks to the incredible generosity shown at The Big Fun Raiser, we can unlock the potential of countless more families across Scotland by expanding The Yard’s reach and opening the doors to even more secret gardens of support, joy, and friendship.”
Meanwhile, Edinburgh Mum Megan Davidson whose son Toby (5) attends The Yard, gave a speech highlighting the importance of the charity to her family.
Megan said, “Toby is unique, creative, fun and loving, and big brother to Phoebe who is two, going on 25. Toby is also autistic and has a chromosome duplication. When he started playgroup, Toby really struggled and his behaviour was challenging. Although the staff were amazing, I dreaded pick-up and what they might say. Then, one day, a member of staff told us about The Yard. At that point, he hadn’t been diagnosed but that wasn’t an issue and, what’s more, I could take Phoebe too!
“From our first visit, the nerves began to get lighter and Toby was having so much fun. I was no longer the odd one out; everyone got it! They offered us support, advice and friendship. There is nowhere else you will find such selfless people; the team are 100% there for the children and he adores them. The Yard is his ‘yes’ place, his safe space, his happy place where he can be himself and celebrated for who he is.
“It’s also a place where Phoebe is included alongside her brother. Her experiences and the friendships she is forming are making her an advocate for inclusion. I wish all children had the opportunity she has had. The Yard saved me; it gave me a place to heal when I needed it the most. It has educated me and, most importantly, made me see just how beautiful our children are and that the world is better for having them in it.”
For more information, visit www.theyardscotland.org.uk
Blackadders LLP has announced an exciting move to a new Dundee office in the heart of the city centre.
The Scottish law firm and wealth management firm will move to DC Thomson’s Meadowside building, leasing the first floor and a section of the ground floor from the content, technology and investments business. Blackadders will have a dedicated entrance to the building from Euclid Crescent and a reception and client meeting rooms on the ground floor as well exclusive occupation of the first floor.
Nearly 130 staff members who work in legal and support services across Commercial Property, Corporate, Employment, Dispute Resolution, Family Law, Private Client, Property, Residential and Rural Land and Business will move to the recently refurbished open plan office.
The law firm’s Dundee office has been based on Reform Street in the city for over 90 years and this short move of just under 150 metres will see them in their new home in the DC Thomson headquarters which was originally opened in 1906.
Emma Gray, Joint Managing Partner of Blackadders said, “It’s fantastic to be staying in the centre of Dundee, sharing the premises of another well-known Dundee business and an iconic building in the city.
“It’s just a stone’s throw away from our current office but it’s light years ahead in terms of facilities, comfort and technology. We can’t wait to move in.”
A 12-week building programme will commence shortly and Blackadders hopes to be in the new office by autumn 2024.
Blackadders’ Joint Managing Partner Ryan McKay added, “This state-of-the-art office will complement our other Scottish premises in Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Glasgow. It shows our strong commitment to the city of Dundee and offers a bright and flexible office environment for our employees.”
Chairman of DC Thomson, Christopher Thomson, said: “We are pleased to welcome Blackadders into our iconic Meadowside HQ. Our and their presence there maintains a significant footfall in the city centre and the immediate surrounding areas. We have a degree of hybrid working now which gives our own colleagues greater flexibility and also means we have more capacity in our building.
“The regeneration of Dundee continues with transformative projects like the Waterfront, the V&A Dundee, The Eden Project, The MacManus, and the development of the key Life Sciences buildings and Dundee University. We are proud to continue to play our part, including the significant investment we have made in the redevelopment and refurbishment of our unique Meadowside HQ.”
Gilson Gray, the full-service legal firm, has announced its annual promotions as it continues to grow and broaden its service offering across Scotland and the wider UK.
Rob McGregor has become head of estate agency at Gilson Gray’s burgeoning property division, while Callum Sutherland now leads new business and home-buying at the firm’s residential conveyancing arm – which has grown to become one of Scotland’s largest in recent years. Gilson Gray was recently named best estate agency for Edinburgh and Lothians at the Scottish Business Awards.
Fraser Cameron has also been appointed to legal director at Gilson Gray’s litigation team, which in the last 12 months has won a series of awards and high-profile cases including short-term lets operators’ petition against City of Edinburgh Council’s proposed new licensing regime.
The latest promotions add to last month’s announcement that Emma Bradbury had been named chief operating officer at Gilson Gray Financial Management, after supporting its development in several roles over the past decade.
In total, there have been 18 promotions across Gilson Gray this year, including within its private client, corporate, residential, financial planning, and residential teams. Gilson Gray is one of the UK’s fastest growing law firms, with offices in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen, Dundee, East Lothian, and Lincoln.
Glen Gilson, managing partner and chairman at Gilson Gray, said: “We have grown from strength to strength in recent years, and it is testament to the breadth and depth of our offering and experience within the firm that we have so many well-deserved promotions across different parts of our legal services. I look forward to watching the team develop even more in the years ahead.”
Matthew Gray, managing director of property services at Gilson Gray, added: “Rob and Callum – along with our other promotions within their teams – have thoroughly earned their new roles and will provide sound leadership to two increasingly important divisions within Gilson Gray’s property offering. We have seen substantial growth across our offices in Scotland and England over the past few years, with increasing demand for property services, which we only expect to continue this year and beyond.
As the nation celebrates National Volunteer Week (Monday, 3rd – Sunday, 9th June), Edinburgh Leisure will be holding a thank you on Thursday, 6th June at Meadowbank Sports Centre for their unsung heroes and their unwavering commitment and all they do to help create a more active and healthier city.
National Volunteer Week recognises and celebrates the contributions volunteers make across the UK and inspires more people to make a difference.
Stephen Hughes, Volunteer Manager at Edinburgh Leisure explains: “Our volunteers play a vital role in making a difference to people’s lives, providing the help and support people need to be active.
“In the last few years, our volunteers have grown from 120 in 2022-2023 to 140 in 2023-2024. We’ve also expanded the volunteering roles from five to nine and include buddy swimming, walk leaders and Instructor Assistants.”
Teresa, 66, one of Edinburgh Leisure’s volunteers explains why she got involved and her journey from participant to volunteer. She grew up in Edinburgh’s Craigmillar area and has always enjoyed staying active. She used the old Meadowbank Sports Centre (“going back a few years”) for aerobics classes, badminton, and training for the West Highland Way with her sister-in-law.
Teresa was previously a participant in Edinburgh Leisure’s Steady Steps programme, which is a physical activity referral programme for anyone who has had a fall or is at risk of having a fall. After falling and breaking her wrist, she completed half her sessions in person and the rest online when COVID-19 hit. Here she tells us about her journey from participant to volunteer.
“I worked with Scottish Gas for 36 years and as part of my job I supported community initiatives. We had days where we could volunteer, and I used them to support the Royal Blind School. That was when I first became interested in volunteering.
When I finished my Steady Steps classes, my instructor Mari asked me if I would like to become a volunteer. I investigated it and was surprised to find out that Edinburgh Leisure has so many different volunteer roles. I decided to volunteer with Steady Steps and another Active Communities class, Get Active, which encourages inactive people to become and stay active.
“Not only does volunteering help me keep physically fit but it’s also good for my mental wellbeing. I love the community and camaraderie in classes, getting to know people and learning new things. I like that the participants find me approachable and when they call me by my name it shows they remember me, and I feel valued. The education sessions and the volunteer training days about dementia and visual impairment I’ve taken part in have broadened my knowledge. I get as much out of volunteering as the participants do.
“I would encourage others who are considering volunteering to give it a go as it’s so rewarding. Recently, after my class had finished, a few of us were having a laugh while getting packed up. It was only when we got to the front door of Meadowbank that one of the participants realised she had left her Zimmer frame in the studio. For me this is a good example of how physical activity can improve health, even in older people, and give them confidence to get out and do more”.
No matter which role you undertake as a volunteer at Edinburgh Leisure, training and support is provided. To find out more and get involved, visit: https://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/work-with-us/become-a-volunteer or contact stephenhughes@edinburghleisure.co.uk
W Edinburgh has unveiled its eagerly awaited summer terraces, and details of exciting summer programming. Open from Saturday 1st June, the new SUSHISAMBA Edinburgh terrace, secluded Joao’s Place terrace, and expansive W Deck provide visitors with three separate outdoor spaces to enjoy unprecedented 360-degree views of the city. Signature cocktails, fire pits and live music from the country’s most exciting new DJs await visitors to the crest of W Edinburgh’s Ribbon Building this summer.
W Deck
Located on the 12th floor of W Edinburgh, W Deck will now be open seven days a week, with an exclusive new summer cocktail menu and live music. An expansive new rooftop bar serving classics and twists such as the fruity passion fruit martini-inspired ‘Sunset Ritual’ (Hyland Park 12, Passionfruit and Peach Tea) and zingy grapefruit option ‘Nitro Paloma’ (Altos Tequila, Grapefruit, Agave & Saline), W Deck is set to be the city’s go-to spot when the sun is shining.
From 6th June, W Deck will also play host to the city’s hottest DJs every Thursday night (5pm-10pm), including radio regular Beth and Ilyus from festival headlining duo llyus and Barrientos. Guests can enjoy such music while soaking up the sunshine and marveling at unparalleled views of the city including Edinburgh Castle, Arthur’s Seat, Calton Hill and the historic George Street.
What’s more, throughout August W Deck guests can enjoy uninterrupted views from the new rooftop bar of the nightly festival fireworks display over Edinburgh, with fire pits to keep visitors warm as the city sparkles.
W Deck is open from 1pm – 11pm, seven days a week, weather permitting. Reservations can be made HERE.
Follow @wedinburgh on Instagram for the latest on W Deck or visit wedinburgh.com
SUSHISAMBA Edinburgh Terrace
The infinitely popular SUSHISAMBA Edinburgh restaurant has also opened its terrace, inviting guests to enjoy al fresco drinks and dining on the 10th floor terrace of W Edinburgh. Offering breathtaking views from Calton Hill to Edinburgh Castle, visitors to the brand new terrace can now soak up the sun and indulge in curated cocktails, spritz, and coolers, paired with delicious dishes celebrating the cultures and cuisines of Japan, Brazil, and Peru.
Inspired by Scotland’s bountiful selection of produce, SUSHISAMBA’s terrace will offer a menu of select specialties from the restaurant’s exquisite menu. Delights to be enjoyed on the terrace include the Edinburgh Roll, Wagyu Gyoza, and Crispy Lobster Taquitos. Complementing the menu is an impressive cocktail list, alongside a curated collection of premium sake, and Scottish and Japanese whiskies.
This new outdoor terrace provides an exceptional dining experience, allowing guests to enjoy signature SUSHISAMBA dishes while taking in unfettered panoramic city views. The spacious terrace will be open for both launch and dinner seven days a week from Friday 7th June. It is currently available for walk-ins only.
Visit www.sushisamba.com or follow @sushisamba.edinburgh on Instagram for the latest updates.
Joao’s Place Terrace
Discover an exclusive terrace this summer at Joao’s Place – a perfectly secluded sunset spot hidden on the 11th floor of W Edinburgh. For those in the know, Joao’s Place transports drinkers to an intimate escape from the city with premium cocktails, champagne and spirits inside the intimate studio inspired by the Liberdade neighborhood of São Paulo Brazil.
The drinks are a mix of classics celebrating Brazil and Joao’s community in Liberdade, São Paulo’s largest Japanese community outside of Japan, and a Bossa Nova selection inspired by the huge wave of international artists who swarmed to Brazil in the 1980s.
Step out onto Joao’s terrace at sunset to view the city at night with firepits to keep guests warm and views over Calton Hill and the Firth of Forth. The first of its kind in the city, Joao’s terrace is an intimate al fresco space offering world-class cocktails from 3pm till 1am Wednesday – Sunday.
Indoor seats bookable via www.joaosplace.com. The terrace is available for walk-ins only.
Follow @joaos_place on Instagram for the latest updates
All three terraces at W Edinburgh will be open from Saturday 1st June. Bookings to drink and dine at W Edinburgh can be made HERE.
- Business confidence in Scotland rose by 15 points to 57% in May – the joint highest level of any UK nation or region
- Firms’ optimism in their own trading prospects rose by 16 points to 60%, while optimism in the economy climbed 13 points to 53%
- Overall UK confidence rose eight points to 50% – the highest level in eight years
Business confidence in Scotland was the joint highest of any UK nation or region in May, according to the latest Business Barometer from Bank of Scotland Commercial Banking.
Companies in Scotland reported higher confidence in their own business prospects month-on-month, up 16 points at 60%. When taken alongside their optimism in the economy, up 13 points to 53%, this gives a headline confidence reading of 57% (vs. 42% in April) – the joint highest overall confidence reading on the Business Barometer in May, alongside the South East of England (also 57%).
A net balance of 50% of businesses in Scotland also expect to increase staff levels over the next year, up eight points on last month.
Looking ahead to the next six months, Scottish businesses identified their top target areas for growth as investing in their team, for example by investing in training (44%), evolving their offering (40%), and introducing new technology (36%).
The Business Barometer, which surveys 1,200 businesses monthly, provides early signals about UK economic trends both regionally and nationwide. The data for this edition was collected between 1–16th May, before the UK general election was announced.
National picture
In May, overall UK business confidence reached its highest level since 2015 – rising by eight points to a net balance of 50%.
Businesses showed increased optimism in both their trading prospects (up nine points month-on-month to 54%) and the economy (up seven points to 46%). Firms’ trading outlook was the most optimistic in seven years, while economic optimism was the highest recorded since September 2021.
The West Midlands (56%) followed Scotland and the South East of England as the second-most confident UK nation or region in May.
Sector insights
Similarly, there were particularly strong results reported in the construction and services sectors this month. Prospects in the construction sector jumped to 58% (up 20 points), the highest for 14 months, while in services, expected output increased to 57% (up 12 points). On the latter, it is the highest level since the survey was expanded in 2018. Expected business activity in the retail sector also improved to 49% (up three points).
Although trading prospects in manufacturing eased slightly to 49% (down three points), the underlying trend over the last three months remains positive.
Martyn Kendrick, regional director for Scotland at Bank of Scotland Commercial Banking, said: “Along with longer nights and warmer days, summer is ushering in a new wave of confidence among Scottish businesses.
“As firms look ahead to new growth, it’s essential that they have the right strategy and resources in place to capitalise on new opportunities. This will help them make the most of whatever lies ahead, and support their long-term resilience. We’ll continue to be their side with our backing to help translate their ambition into results.”
Paul Gordon, managing director for SME and Mid Corporates at Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, said: “The last three months saw confidence unchanged at 42% as businesses adjusted to the economic environment. That consistency has been followed up by a marked increase in confidence in May with improved scores for trading prospects, economic outlook and hiring intentions.
“Following on from last month, there also continue to be positive signs for the labour market as businesses show increased hiring intentions.
“We remain committed to supporting our clients, providing the resources, expertise and solutions necessary to help businesses thrive in this evolving landscape.”
Hann-Ju Ho, Senior Economist, Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, said: “These results highlight a notable improvement in business confidence. Optimism about the economy increased to 46% this month – the highest result since September 2021, when the country was emerging from the Covid-19 pandemic, but before the energy crisis after the invasion of Ukraine.
“The regional picture has also improved – we’ve now seen increases in seven of the UK’s 12 regions, where there was previously a more mixed picture. Results in the South East, Scotland and the West Midlands were particularly strong. Across the sectors, there were strong, broad-based improvements in services and construction.”
Works on the upgrade of the bouldering facilities at Edinburgh Leisure’s flagship climbing arena at Ratho will begin on Monday, 3rd June following a major funding investment from sportscotland’s Sport Facilities Fund. There will be a steady schedule of works across the summer and autumn as the changes occur.
The Edinburgh International Climbing Arena received £100,000 towards bouldering redevelopment to improve opportunities to progress at all levels of the sport.
As the UK’s largest climbing gym and the only international competition venue, it has hosted European Championships and World Cup for Lead and Speed in recent years, but the bouldering facilities needed an upgrade to enable it to host all three IFSC (International Federation of Sport Climbing) and Olympic disciplines.
The new state of the art competition bouldering wall, designed by the Rockcity team, means that Ratho becomes the only climbing centre in the UK with Olympic standard facilities for all three climbing disciplines (lead climbing, speed climbing and bouldering). Meanwhile, the ‘real rock’ freeform iconic boulders are being repurposed to a new site in the west of Scotland.
As Mark English, Managing Director of Rockcity explained: “The arena will host additional modern flat panelled bouldering walls and another freestanding boulder to give the Edinburgh community the best facilities in the city and surrounding area, using an unrivalled climbing hold selection and world class route setting.
“When the work’s complete you can expect to see Edinburgh Leisure’s flagship climbing experience jump into the future and host some amazing competition and circuit-based bouldering later this year.”
The investment has been made possible thanks to National Lottery players, who raise £30 million each week for good causes across the UK.
Welcoming the investment, Emma Ogilvie-Hall, Head of Operations at Edinburgh Leisure said: “We’re delighted and very grateful to receive the sportscotland funding that means our outdated bouldering facilities at the Edinburgh International Climbing Arena (EICA) can be replaced.
“With indoor bouldering now the most widely practised form of climbing it will ensure that the EICA can continue as a world class venue for all three climbing disciplines – lead, speed, and bouldering – while continuing to provide climbers of all ages and abilities with access to opportunities to participate in and progress through the sport.
“It will also mean that Scotland is able to host bouldering competitions and national training camps and allow the EICA to keep our national and international profile as a world-class climbing facility.”
Stuart Younie, CEO of Mountaineering Scotland said: “This is incredibly exciting news for Ratho and its regular customers but also the wider climbing community in Scotland. Not only will it enable EICA to host major events featuring all three Olympic disciplines but as our national centre for climbing in Scotland it will provide a first-class training venue delivering the performance environment needed to help support the development of our young climbers in Scotland.
“With Paris 2024 around the corner and new climbing centres appearing all over the UK to meet the increasing demand for the sport, this investment from sportscotland could not have come at a better time. We are looking forward to working with Edinburgh Leisure and the team at Ratho to maximise the opportunities the new bouldering wall will provide.”
The EICA:Ratho was among 18 projects across Scotland to share a total of £1,506,263 from sportscotland to develop existing facilities or create a new home for sport and physical activity.
Chief Executive of sportscotland, Forbes Dunlop, said: “The aim of the Sports Facilities Fund is to support sustainable and inclusive projects with their ambitions of using sport and physical activity to enhance the lives of their local communities. This investment would not be possible without National Lottery players who continue to raise vital funding for sport across Scotland.
“The physical and mental health benefits of sport are well documented, but equally important is the ability to create a space where everyone is welcome to participate at their own level.
“Projects like this one at the EICA not only create opportunities for people to take part in sport and physical activity but can also provide a place for communities to come together.
The Sports Facilities Fund prioritises projects that widen access to participation or allow people to progress further within their chosen sport locally by removing barriers, particularly in rural areas or areas of deprivation, and for under-represented groups.
In addition to the investment, projects can benefit from the expertise within sportscotland’s facilities team to maximise the impact that their plans will have, ensuring they meet the needs of their local communities now and in the future.
A fly-through artists impression of what the new boulders will look like can be viewed by clicking here
