Virgin Hotels Edinburgh’s flagship restaurant, Commons Club, is set to offer a new and unique dining experience, immersing guests in a global culinary journey through collaborations with globally renowned chefs.

Beginning in February, the month-long takeovers will give guests a taste of the finest cuisine from around the world through internationally themed menus as part of Commons Club’s exclusive dining offering, The Chef’s Table, which gives guests a front row seat to experience the creativity behind the culinary craft.

With prices starting at £75 per person, the exclusive menus will draw on inspiration from the finest international flavours. From Peru to Japan, Chef de Cuisine Emma Hanley will collaborate with chefs from around the world to carefully curate bespoke six course tasting menus featuring global culinary delights from their own kitchens.

To begin the series, The Chef’s Table will go to Japan with a menu that allows guests to experience authentic oriental flavours with a twist and paired perfectly with locally sourced ingredients such as the Pan Seared Halibut, caught in Scottish water.

As the Pièce de résistance, this menu features Japanese Black Wagyu Ribeye from Kagoshima Prefecture – of A3 to A5 grade, the highest rating of this delicacy. Praised for its marbling, Wagyu is widely renowned as the best beef in the world and boasts a buttery flavour, tenderness, and juiciness unmatched by other steaks.

Showcasing an array of delicious Japanese inspired treats, guests can also expect an Amuse Bouche of Miso soup, followed by Seven Spiced Seared Tuna, rounded off with the Cherry Blossom and Petit Fours, yuzu pâte de fruits, sesame ice cream cones, which promise a sweet conclusion to an extraordinary dining experience.

Tying in with the flavours of Japan, Commons Club has also partnered with House of Suntory – a House of Japanese artisans, crafting world-class spirits, inspired by Japanese nature and mastered with Japanese craft – to curate a cocktail menu that pairs perfectly with The Chef’s Table dishes. Expertly chosen by Commons Club’s Head Mixologist, Leon Back, each drink has been skilfully mixed to complement the flavour profile of every dish, from the Japanese Inspired White Negroni, Roku gin, Luxardo Bitter Bianco, Martini Ambrato, Lucky Orange liqueur, to the Umami Flavoured Manhattan, featuring Toki Whiskey, Martini Rhubino, Aelder and soy sauce.

Emma Hanley, Chef de Cuisine at Commons Club, said: “Offering a completely unique experience for guests, we want to create an exclusive evening of dining to remember, with the highest quality ingredients and collaborations with world renowned chefs along the way.

“Scotland is home to some of the highest quality produce and we want to showcase that in our Chef’s Table offering, incorporating the best local ingredients with different tastes from around the world. We’re working on a series of menus for the rest of 2024 that aim to excite, inspire, and let our guests try something new.”

With world renowned chef partners still to be announced, takeover highlights for 2024 also include:

• February:A trip to the country of the Rising Sun for Japan with Emma Hanley, Chef de Cuisine at Commons Club
• March:The Chef’s Table goes to Greece with Kostas Papathansiou, Head Chef at Harrods
• April:The Chef’s Table goes to Portugal and Spain
• May:The Chef’s Table goes to Peru
• June:The Chef’s Table goes to Italy with Stefano Battani, Head Chef at Cucine Nervi
• July & August:The Chef’s Table goes to Scotland
• September:The Chef’s Table goes to France
• October:The Chef’s Table goes to the Middle East
• November & December:The Chef’s Table goes to Great Britain

Running throughout the month from Thursday to Saturday weekly from 7pm, The Chef’s Table can be booked exclusively as a private event or for individual diners, where guests can expect an intimate three-hour sociable dining experience on a long-shared table.

With more exciting collaborations still to be announced, you can find out more information about Commons Club and The Chef’s Table experience here: https://virginhotels.com/edinburgh/eat-drink/commons-club/

For reservations, visit: Commons Bar & Restaurant – VH Edinburgh Reservations (sevenrooms.com)

You can also follow along on social media here: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube

 

• VisitBritain Association Conference, EXPERIENCEit, and ETAG take place between 5-8 February bringing together over 1,000 tourism and event professionals to meet in Edinburgh
• EICC CEO Marshall Dallas: “While the events sector grew last year, and the demand for in-person events is robust, we know the industry remains circumspect around areas like economic backdrop, fluctuating costs, and ensuring we have the right skills in place to match evolving dynamics”
• Marshall Dallas added: “We believe next week’s conferences can help shape positive strategies to underpin continuing industry growth this year and in the years ahead”
• The UK events market is projected to reach £110 billion by 2032

The Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC) is gearing up for a trio of premier tourism and events industry conferences, with the VisitBritain Association Conference, EXPERIENCEit, and ETAG’s annual tourism industry conference taking place between 5-8 February, and bringing together over 1,000 tourism and event professionals to meet in Edinburgh.

The VisitBritain Association Conference 2024 is the UK’s annual gathering of association meeting planners who organise conferences worldwide, professional conference organisers and decision-makers city convention bureaus, EXPERIENCEit brings together organisations and individuals from Scotland’s marketing, communications, film, entertainment, sport, festivals, and business events sectors, and ETAG Annual Conference 2024 is billed by organisers as a “must attend” for everyone with an interest in Edinburgh’s visitor economy.

EICC CEO Marshall Dallas said: “What’s notable is that we are hosting three major conferences for key players in our industry at an Edinburgh, Scotland, and UK-wide level at the EICC next week.  Overall, while the events sector grew last year, and the demand for in-person events is robust, we know the industry remains circumspect around areas like economic backdrop, fluctuating costs, and ensuring we have the right skills in place to match the evolving dynamics.”

Marshall Dallas added: “We believe next week’s conferences can help shape positive strategies to underpin continuing industry growth this year and in the years ahead.”

The UK events market is projected to reach £110 billion by 2032, registering annual growth of approximately 5% from 2023 to 2032.  Research has indicated that the events industry in the UK has the potential to grow even quicker, but is being held back by staff shortages.

Other key trends to be discussed at the VisitBritain, EXPERIENCEit, and ETAG conferences next week include rising costs, technology, sustainability, diversity, equity, and inclusion.

The EICC is set to announce annual results for 2023 later next month.

Conference links:

Experienceit: https://eventit.org.uk/register-your-interest/

ETAG: https://www.etag.org.uk/event/etag-conference-2024/

VisitBritain: https://www.visitbritain.org/business-events-association-conference-2024

The Two Law Firms Working Together To Grow Across UK And Internationally

The deal which will see Irwin Mitchell invest in Scottish law firm Wright, Johnston & Mackenzie LLP (WJM) is now complete after securing regulatory approval.

This paves the way for the two businesses to work closer together as they seek growth across the UK and internationally.

The investment sees Irwin Mitchell Partners Bruce Macmillan, Craig Marshall, and Mark Higgins join the newly formed Wright, Johnston & Mackenzie Management Board as the two firms seek to share best practice and take advantage of opportunities to further grow their businesses.

The firms have complementary skills north of the border with Irwin Mitchell Scotland operating out of Glasgow predominantly in banking and finance and complex personal injury work, while Wright, Johnston & Mackenzie specialises in corporate, private client, property, and asset management.

Together, the law firms will now provide a full service offering across legal services and financial planning across more than 20 locations across England, Scotland, and Wales. They are also part of international law firm networks spanning 200 jurisdictions.

Wright, Johnston & Mackenzie will continue to operate under that brand in Scotland for the immediate future with Managing Partner Fraser Gillies heading up operations.

Mark Higgins, Managing Partner for Irwin Mitchell in Scotland, said: “Over recent weeks and months, teams and colleagues from Irwin Mitchell and Wright, Johnston & Mackenzie have been meeting and supporting each other with a focus on the future.

“Now that the deal is complete, we can accelerate our plans to grow our businesses and we’re looking forward to working together to maximise the opportunities both sides of the border for our clients.”

Fraser Gillies added: “Both law firms have a similar, collaborative culture, with clients at the heart of everything we do, and it’s been impressive to see the ideas and opportunities our colleagues have shared since the deal was announced back in September last year. We now begin the next chapter in our history, and we’re excited about what we can achieve together.”

Both Wright, Johnston & Mackenzie and Irwin Mitchell have been active in the M&A markets in the past year with WJM acquiring Macandrew & Jenkins WS Ltd in Inverness and Irwin Mitchell acquiring Silk Family Law in the Northeast of England.

Wright, Johnston & Mackenzie has recently welcomed a new Private Client Partner in Edinburgh and made a host of other appointments and promotions across the business in areas including energy and commercial property. Irwin Mitchell has also recruited a new Partner to its Commercial Disputes team and added an International Trade Consultant to provide greater strategic support for its international strategy.

Chef Tom Kitchin Collaborates with Legendary Caviar House Petrossian to Host An Exclusive Evening of Caviar & Champagne Philipponnat at The Kitchin, Leith

Chef Tom Kitchin and the team at Michelin-starred restaurant, The Kitchin in Edinburgh, have partnered with French caviar company Petrossian, to host a special evening designed to take guests on a unique tasting journey, bringing together the best and most outstanding seasonal Scottish produce, matched with France’s finest caviar and champagne.

On Thursday 22^nd February 2024, Chef Owner Tom Kitchin and The Kitchin Head Chef Lachlan Archibald, will present an inspiring tasting menu, showcasing Petrossian’s carefully crafted caviars, from the classic, to the sophisticated, to the adventurous, allowing guests to discover a collection of tastes, sizes and colours of caviar.

For any caviar connoisseurs, the evening is the ideal opportunity to try a selection of elegant flavour pairings. Guests will also have the chance to learn more about caviar and how it is made from Petrossian UK Managing Director, Raphaelle Simmons. A family-owned company with more than 100 years of expertise in caviar maturation, Petrossian shares a similar passion to The Kitchin, with a careful sourcing policy and commitment to quality, flavour and sustainability.

Each course will also be carefully matched with some truly exclusive champagnes from The Kitchin’s prestigious partner Philipponnat Champagne, presented by The Kitchin Head Sommelier Joel Bastian, bringing a true sense of luxury to what is set to be an unforgettable evening.

Philipponnat is situated by the river Marne in the heart of the Champagne region and is run by the Philipponnat family to this day. For nearly 500 years the legacy and expertise inherited from their predecessors have been passed down the generations through a genuine passion for crafting wine and enduring the family spirit. The Kitchin team has worked closely with the team at Philipponnat for many years and is proud to be the only ambassadors in Scotland for Philipponnat Champagne.

The exclusive evening will be held in the Private Dining Room at The Kitchin, with a limited number of tickets available. Reservations are £350 per person including an 8-course tasting menu showcasing the very finest and most exclusive seasonal produce available from the local land and sea, alongside a carefully matched Champagne Pairing Menu.

For reservations, please contact The Reception Team at The Kitchin on info@thekitchin.com or 0131 555 1755.

Inspire kids to get the active habit. With Edinburgh Leisure’s Young Explorer soft-play membership, children get to sample the world of sport and fitness from an early age.

For new customers signing up to become a member in February, April is completely free. And for existing members referring a friend, if their friends join, the existing member will also receive a free month in April.

From only £17.99* per month, the Young Explorer Soft Play Membership offers incredible value, fantastic flexibility and of course, will keep little ones entertained and burning off energy as they explore the amazing soft plays.

Little adventurers can visit as many times as they wish, enjoying unlimited fun at any of Edinburgh Leisure’s three soft play venues across the city at Clambers at the Royal Commonwealth Pool, Tumbles at Portobello, and Scrambles at EICA: Ratho.

Edinburgh Leisure’s play frames are suitable for children up to ten years old and there are frames for babies, toddlers, and juniors up to 10 years.  Each venue has a café where healthy snacks and tasty treats can be enjoyed.

With great member benefits, the Edinburgh Leisure soft play is only available to buy online.

https://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/softplaycampaign

• Increased equity stake from 25% to 51% accelerates STV Studios’ growth plan and is materially earnings enhancing
• High-end drama producer has secured revenues of £55m over next 3 years across multiple series
• Investment will help underpin Two Cities’ growth and strengthen STV Studios’ position as leading Nations & Regions producer

STV Studios is pleased to announce it has increased its 25% equity stake in the high-end drama production company, Two Cities Television (“Two Cities”), to a majority holding of 51%.

STV acquired a minority stake in Two Cities in January 2020, with an option to increase its initial stake to a majority position upon Two Cities becoming profitable. Following the initial investment, the Belfast-based company has made significant progress, producing two series of the critically acclaimed police drama Blue Lights for BBC One, with the second series due to air in 2024. This follows previous success with BAFTA award-winning show Patrick Melrose starring Benedict Cumberbatch for Sky and Showtime.

Currently, Two Cities has additional high-end drama series secured which will deliver forecast revenue of £55m over the next three years (2024 to 2026). The acquisition will support STV Studios on its journey to becoming a 10% operating margin business, but at this stage in the year delivery schedules for commissioned shows have not been finalised and so the phasing of profit across the three years is not yet agreed. Additionally, there is a strong development pipeline.

Founded in 2016, Two Cities is led by Michael Jackson, formerly Controller of BBC One and BBC Two, CEO of Channel 4, President of Programming at USA Entertainment and Chairman of Universal Television, and Creative Director Stephen Wright, formerly Head of Drama for BBC Northern Ireland where he commissioned Line of Duty and The Fall.

STV Studios is one of the UK’s leading producers of scripted and unscripted content and Scotland’s largest production group, with stakes in multiple production companies across the UK. It acquired Greenbird Media’s expansive network of independent production companies in July 2023, significantly increasing the number of creative labels in the STV Studios family to 24 and its portfolio of returning series to nearly 40.  STV Studios is responsible for a wide range of scripted and unscripted series such as AppleTV+ drama Criminal Record; prison drama Screw; Bridge of Lies; Celebrity Catchphrase; The Hit List; A&E After Dark; LEGO Masters; Antiques Road Trip; and The Travelling Auctioneers.

Stephen Wright and Michael Jackson of Two Cities Television said: “The STV team have been incredible partners. The company is beginning to find its feet and we are thankful for all the support from STV Studios in getting Two Cities up and running. Their continued investment and partnership will allow us to develop and grow.” 

Simon Pitts, Chief Executive of STV Group plc, said: “Michael and Stephen have delivered significant creative and commercial success on the back of the standout performance of Blue Lights and there is so much more to come. STV’s consolidation of Two Cities is clear evidence of the ongoing success of our Studios strategy of taking minority stakes in high potential production companies. We’re very proud to be in business with Two Cities and look forward to our continued partnership.”

David Mortimer, MD of STV Studios, added: “Two Cities remains a natural partner for STV Studios, producing high-quality drama across the UK and beyond. Their brilliant police series, Blue Lights, truly put them on the map, launching to rave reviews and very strong ratings in 2023.  Two Cities has more work lined up for 2024 and beyond, a strong development pipeline and many exciting projects to come. I’ve really enjoyed working with Michael and Stephen over the last four years, they are two of the very best in the business. I’m sure exciting times lie ahead!”

• Business confidence in Scotland rose 11 points to 42% in January.
• Scottish firms reported higher confidence in their own prospects, up 13 points to 57%.
• Overall UK business confidence increased by nine points in January to 44%, with firms’ outlook on the economy also up month-on-month by ten points (37% in January vs. 27% in December).

Business confidence in Scotland rose 11 points during January to 42%, according to the latest Business Barometer from Bank of Scotland.

Companies in Scotland reported higher confidence in their own trading prospects month-on-month, up 13 points to 57%. When taken alongside their optimism in the economy, up nine points to 27%, this gives a headline confidence reading of 42% (vs. 31% in December).

Scottish businesses identified their top target areas for growth in the next six months as investing in their team (41%), evolving products and services (28%) and introducing new technology (27%).

A net balance of 42% of Scottish firms also expect to increase staff levels over the next year, up 12 points on last month.

The Business Barometer, which surveys 1,200 businesses monthly, provides early signals about UK economic trends both regionally and nationwide.

National picture

Overall, UK business confidence rose nine points in January to 44% – its highest level since February 2022 and its strongest start to a year since 2016. Firms’ outlook on the overall UK economy rose ten points from 27% to 37%, while businesses’ optimism in their own trading prospects also climbed three points month-on-month to 51%.

Companies’ hiring intentions increased marginally, with 33% of firms intending to increase staff levels over the next 12 months, up four points on the month before.

London and the North East were the joint most confident parts of the UK in January – each posting a headline confidence of 62% – followed by the West Midlands (56%) and Yorkshire & the Humber (44%).

The East of England (38% in January vs. 45% December) and Northern Ireland (29% vs. 36%) were the only two regions to reporting declining levels of confidence. The majority of the data was collected before the December ONS inflation data was announced on January 17th.

Sector insights

Three of the four sectors tracked in the Barometer reported rises in confidence. The most significant increase was in services which accelerated 15 points to 45%, up from December’s 16 point drop. Manufacturing confidence also increased to 49%, while construction rose eight points to a 10-month high of 45%. There was a more mixed picture in retail however, dipping three points to 41% with anecdotal evidence of weaker footfall and sales in December as shoppers hit the streets earlier than usual in November. Nevertheless, some companies still reported stronger sales over the festive period.

Martyn Kendrick, regional director for Scotland at Bank of Scotland Commercial Banking, said: “After a dip in confidence at the end of 2023, it’s exciting to see Scottish businesses start the year with such a positive outlook. This follows a festive period with the likes of Edinburgh welcoming more than 50,000 people to its annual Hogmanay Street Party – attendance that’s back to pre-pandemic levels.  

“While Scottish businesses have faced a lot of challenges over the past few years and continue to contend with a difficult geopolitical and economic landscape, we are still seeing a strong appetite for growth. 

“To maximise these growth opportunities, companies need to prepare to adapt and adjust to external factors. For many, this could mean evolving their offering, diversifying into new markets, or investing in new ways of working. We’ll continue to be by the side of Scottish businesses to help them reap every opportunity to grow and succeed throughout 2024.”

Paul Gordon, managing director for SME and Mid Corporates at Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, said: “We’ve seen improved confidence in almost all sectors – a promising turnaround from December’s decline. A seven-month high in manufacturing and similarly positive results in construction make for positive reading. Although the retail sector reported lower confidence, there are reasonable explanations for this when taking consumers’ shopping habits into account coupled with cost-of-living pressures.

“Businesses showed incredible resilience in the face of tough economic circumstances last year, so it’s reassuring to see that confidence has rebounded to start the new year off brightly. 

“While the figures do make for more positive reading, there is still caution within the economy. So, it’s imperative that businesses plan effectively for the year ahead to secure their future”.

Hann-Ju Ho, Senior Economist, Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, said: “Businesses are feeling more confident following the cautious end to 2023, with this being the strongest start to a year since January 2016. The reduction in inflation, albeit with the recent uptick, and the belief that interest rates may have peaked is likely driving the rise in confidence among firms.

“With ongoing geopolitical issues and a general election on the horizon, businesses will have factored these into their risk radars and will be working to prepare for any potential impacts on their trading prospects.

“Also, half of all companies say they’re planning to increase headcount in the coming year. Despite that and the changes to minimum wage that will come into force in April, expectations for staff pay fell back following last month’s increase”.  

Among the recommendations in the report are:

• A new public body to oversee delivery of core climate policies
• Strengthened resources for independent Climate Change Committee 
• A robust Green Industrial Strategy from Government
• A permanent cross-sector approach to green jobs from policymakers
• Quicker Government action on financing the transition to net-zero through the tax system

The Green Innovation report is being published at an event hosted by Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, taking place at the National Institute of Manufacturing, today (Wed 31st Jan). 

It is the first of five policy documents being published by the BCC’s new Business Council as part of the ‘Future of Economy’ project. The report draws on expertise from businesses of all sizes and sectors, academia and think-tanks. 

The report acknowledges that the “UK has one of the most substantial legal frameworks for climate change anywhere in the world.” However, it also makes clear that “significant challenges ahead” and policy gaps remain.

Establishing a new public body focused on climate delivery, the report says, would ensure genuine cross party working to agree long-term commitments. Strengthened resources for the CCC would give it the capacity to provide deeper analysis of specific sectors.

The report highlights the clear call from investors that current green industrial policies need to be brought together into a long-term, cross cutting strategy.

In order to maintain the country’s progress on climate the report also recommends linking the UK and EU emissions trading schemes, implementing energy grid upgrades and establishing deeper business and Government partnerships.

The report concludes “we are now entering a crunch phase for delivery on net zero” and recognises that “many of the necessary policy measures involve changes to supply chains to customer and business behaviours, and in some cases additional cost burdens at least in the short term.”

Martha Lane Fox, President of the British Chambers of Commerce and Chair of the Business Council said:

“One of the most pressing challenges for all business is the transition to a green and sustainable future. We will have no habitable planet if we don’t encourage rapid and effective actions.

“Our report outlines clear and realistic recommendations to accelerate the UK’s transition to net-zero. A robust strategy focused on delivery across the economy must be underpinned by clear and consistent messaging from Government.

“BCC research and engagement with businesses tells us that firms of all sizes want to play their part, but face barriers along the way.

“This report showcases the power of the BCC’s Business Council to assess the key challenges facing the economy head on. The council members are excited about seizing the opportunity to build a sustainable economy that works for all.

“This is just the start of our Business Council work. We look forward to publishing our other key challenge reports in the coming weeks. In the busy political year ahead, our recommendations will provide a crucial blueprint to help build the future of the economy.”

Entrepreneur Lisa Witter, Chair of Green Innovation Challenge Group said: 

“The UK has the potential to lead the world in Green Innovation. We believe our report gives policymakers a springboard to unlock that potential.

“All of our recommendations are pragmatic and with political support can be implemented in a timely manner.

“I’ve been delighted to chair our meetings over recent months, bringing together some of the UK’s most prominent business alongside leading academics. The message is clear – business can, and will, play a leadership role in sustainably transforming our economy.

“The UK is on the right track. This report’s recommendations can propel British businesses into a global leadership role, seizing the opportunity of becoming the agents of change.”

Emma Howard Boyd, chair of the Green Finance Institute said:  

“Extreme weather brought by the climate crisis is increasingly disrupting lives and the economy. The collective ingenuity of British businesses can provide the solutions the world needs.

“The British Chambers of Commerce’s report highlights the importance of innovation in a resilient, net zero future. The UK’s financial ecosystem should nourish green businesses with capital, and support them with a robust institutional framework underpinned by long-term vision, clear goals, and the agility to adapt.”

Ben Goodwin, Director of Policy and Public Affairs at the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment said:

“The role of businesses in the transition to a greener economy is fundamental, but for this to materialise the appropriate policy and regulatory conditions must be in place. The BCC’s report carefully sets out what is required on this front so that businesses right across the UK can succeed.

“Critically the report also recognises the role of green jobs and skills in driving change and echoes IEMA’s call for a body to established at the heart of government to advise on green workforce matters over the long-term.”

 James Close, Head of Climate Change at NatWest Group, and member of the BCC Business Council said:

“As the first major economy to enshrine net zero into law, the UK has already seen strong progress on our decarbonisation journey.

“However, we know that the next stage will require greater collaboration across the public and private sector to reach net zero by 2050.

“At NatWest, and as highlighted in the Green Innovation Challenge Report, we see that many businesses are determined to play their part in supporting both decarbonisation and green innovation and have the potential to unlock significant revenue for themselves as well as enable the country to meet its climate commitments.”

Yasmin Diamond, Executive Vice President of Global Corporate Affairs at IHG Hotels & Resorts and member of the BCC Business Council:

“IHG is committed to supporting our owners and hotels with decarbonising their operations and giving them the tools to become more sustainable.

“To achieve this, we’re actively engaging in conversations with governments, the hospitality industry and business communities around the world, advocating for stronger options and innovative technology to make decarbonisation easier and more cost-effective.

“As a group it’s important to have the BCC’s support, helping the industry, advocating for change and together, we can continue to create a more sustainable future for hospitality.”

Ross McKenzie, Corporate Affairs Director at Drax and member of the BCC Business Council:

“The climate crisis is the critical challenge for the UK and the world. The foundations of this report are built on the expertise of businesses of all sizes and we were delighted to support its development.

“The report sets out practical recommendations which, if adopted, could further catalyse the country’s journey to reaching Net Zero and accelerating the development of carbon capture and storage.”

Alison McRae, Senior Director at Glasgow Chamber of Commerce and member of the BCC Green Innovation Challenge Group:

“It is fitting that the Green Innovation report is launched here in Glasgow at the National Manufacturing Institute Scotland ahead of what will be another critical year for our economy and the sustainability agenda.

“Innovation will continue to be at the core of the city region’s ambitions both through the work of our network of Innovation Districts, our UKGOVT Innovation Accelerator Status and of course the ongoing work our businesses- and particularly our SME community- are doing to unlock the innovative solutions we need to see to realise our climate targets.

“As the host of COP26, this city has been championing green innovation and circular economy and we at Glasgow Chamber of Commerce have been at the forefront of fighting for the right economic and policy conditions to empower businesses to accelerate and scale action supporting the move to net zero.

“As we approach the Congress of Business summit to again be held in Glasgow on 14 May, as part of Glasgow Climate Week, this report provides a perfect overview of the challenges and opportunities business face and what support is still needed to achieve our ultimate objectives.”

Read the full report here.

The Scran & Scallie was celebrated at the “Estrella Damm” Top 50 Gastropubs yesterday (Monday 22^nd January) as it was revealed in the Top 50 list alongside the very best gastropubs across the UK.  The Scran & Scallie was the only venue in Scotland to make the highly acclaimed Top 50, an achievement that the Stockbridge gastropub has held onto for a second year in a row.

The accolade comes as The Scan & Scallie celebrates its tenth year as one of Edinburgh’s most popular venues, attracting locals, as well as guests from all over the world, who seek out Chef Tom Kitchin’s modern twists on Scottish pub classics, married with the best of warm Scottish hospitality.

The independent, family-friendly gastropub was recognised by the judges for exceptional food, great service and above all, consistency.  The much-coveted Estrella Damm Top 50 Gastropubs list 2024, now in its 16th year, is voted for by food experts, industry figures, writers and journalists from across the UK. It is a list of the best places to eat chosen by the industry, meaning these highly acclaimed venues are being recognised as the very best in the business.

Commenting on the award, The Scran & Scallie Chef Owner Tom Kitchin said; “We’re honoured to represent Scotland in the Top 50 Gastropub Awards.  It’s fantastic to be able to shine a spotlight on the seasonal, local Scottish produce we have access to here and indeed the incredible suppliers who bring us the best of Scotland’s land and seas.

“The recognition from our peers that The Scran & Scallie is a place that people feel welcome and want to return to again and again for great honest, Scottish pub food is something that we’re incredibly proud to have created over the past ten years.”

Nestled within the popular Edinburgh neighbourhood of Stockbridge, The Scran & Scallie exudes warm Scottish hospitality and has built a reputation for injecting seasonality and creativity into a collection of comfort pub classics. Seasonal menus showcase great Scottish food – or ‘scran’ – with ingredients sourced from the very best local Scottish suppliers.  A well-established family friendly and dog friendly venue, The Scran & Scallie has become one of Scotland’s leading dining destinations, attracting the local community as well as diners from across the globe, all seeking out honest Scottish cooking served in a truly relaxed setting.