Herald The www.hillingtonpark.com The Newspaper for Spring 2017 Issue Number 48 New £6million commercial development available Optical business is celebrating success Sky’s the limit for on-form company Global award for bread into beer project Prototype of ESPRIT unveiled pg 3 pg 8 pg 6 pg 9 pg 11 The move, which has seen a large commercial unit at Northpoint on Gordon Avenue converted into a new creative space called Silver Cloud Studio, will now become home to The Orchestra of Scottish Opera. Alex Reedijk, Scottish Opera’s General Director said: “I am delighted that Silver Cloud Studio is now open. Suitable rehearsal space is often difficult to find and our new studio at Hillington Park provides – with surprisingly minimal adaptation – an ideal rehearsal environment for The Orchestra of Scottish Opera and other users. We hope to extend its utility to our Education Department, and in due course, other community activity.” Roddy Proudfoot, Head of Asset Management at Hillington Park said: “Scottish Opera is one of the country’s most creative forces and they’ve demonstrated exactly that by turning an industrial unit into a fantastic rehearsal space for its Orchestra. “The range of commercial organisations based at Hillington Park is large but Scottish Opera has demonstrated that our commercial space can be extremely adaptable to accommodate virtually any use.” For more information visit scottishopera.org.uk The funding from Percipient Capital and existing shareholders will allow the company to grow its operations in Los Angeles, whilst also expanding here in Scotland with plans to hire more staff. Dimensional Imaging, (DI4D) delivers 3D facial imaging and 4D facial performance capture systems, software and services to the entertainment and research sectors. The company has become the VFX industry’s foremost provider of facial performance capture for visual effects in movies, video games and virtual reality (VR) with a global customer base including Sony Computer Entertainment, Electronic Arts and Imperial College London. Tim Christian, chairman of DI4D said: “DI4D is delighted to have secured the backing from such a well-regarded investor as Percipient Capital. This will give us the financial strength and confidence to scale up significantly, invest further in the development of our already highly- advanced facial capture technology and to expand our operations, particularly in North America. This is an exceptional time of opportunity in the facial animation market and we expect that this investment will ensure that DI4D is well placed to seize this and other opportunities.” Percipient Capital, a leading independent provider of private equity and venture capital to small and medium sized businesses, have supported over 60 companies over the last 15 years to fulfil their ambitions and are excited to begin working with DI4D. Commenting on its first investment into DI4D, Percipient Capital director Jason Gould said: “Percipient Capital is delighted to have made its first investment into DI4D. We have been very impressed by the excellent progress made by DI4D and in particular its recent work on several high profile movies, visual effects and video game projects, and we are pleased to be able to assist the company as it enters a new phase of accelerated growth. We look forward to working closely with Tim and the DI4D team and to providing further assistance in future as required.” For more information visit di4d.com Innovation Centre based Dimensional Imaging Ltd (DI4D), a world-leading facial capture company, has completed a £900,000 investment that will enable them to expand into North America. £900,000 growth investment for leading facial capture company Tim Christian with Colin Urquhart CEO, Dimensional Imaging and Jason Gould New rehearsal space hits the right note Scottish Opera, Scotland’s national opera company, has opened a new 5,762 sq ft rehearsal space right in the heart of Hillington Park. Alex Reedijk of Scottish Opera (centre) with Hillington Park’s Roddy Proudfoot (L) and Jamie Cumming (R)
Transcript
HeraldThe www.hillingtonpark.com
The Newspaper forSpring 2017 Issue Number 48
New £6million commercial development available
Optical business is celebrating success
Sky’s the limit for on-form company
Global award for bread into beer project
Prototype of ESPRIT unveiled
pg 3
pg 8
pg 6
pg 9
pg 11
The move, which has seen a large commercial unit at Northpoint on Gordon Avenue converted into a new creative space called Silver Cloud Studio, will now become home to The Orchestra of Scottish Opera.
Alex Reedijk, Scottish Opera’s General Director said: “I am delighted that Silver Cloud Studio is now open. Suitable rehearsal space is often difficult to find and our new studio at Hillington Park provides – with surprisingly minimal adaptation – an ideal rehearsal environment for The Orchestra of Scottish Opera and other users. We hope to extend its utility to our Education Department, and in due course, other community activity.”
Roddy Proudfoot, Head of Asset Management at Hillington Park said: “Scottish Opera is one of the country’s most creative forces and they’ve demonstrated exactly that by turning an industrial unit into a fantastic rehearsal space for its Orchestra.
“The range of commercial organisations based at Hillington Park is large but Scottish Opera has demonstrated that our commercial space can be extremely adaptable to accommodate virtually any use.”
For more information visit scottishopera.org.uk
The funding from Percipient Capital and existing shareholders will allow the company to grow its operations in Los Angeles, whilst also expanding here in Scotland with plans to hire more staff.
Dimensional Imaging, (DI4D) delivers 3D facial imaging and 4D facial performance capture systems, software and services to the entertainment and research sectors. The company has become the VFX industry’s foremost provider of facial performance capture for visual effects in movies, video games and virtual reality (VR) with a global customer base including Sony Computer Entertainment, Electronic Arts and Imperial College London.
Tim Christian, chairman of DI4D said: “DI4D is delighted to have secured the backing from such a well-regarded investor as Percipient Capital. This will give us the financial strength and confidence to scale up significantly, invest further in the development of our already highly-advanced facial capture technology and to expand our operations, particularly in North America. This is an exceptional time of opportunity in the facial animation market and we expect that this investment will ensure that DI4D is well placed to seize this and other opportunities.”
Percipient Capital, a leading independent provider of private equity and venture capital to small and medium sized businesses, have supported over 60 companies over the last 15 years to fulfil their ambitions and are excited to begin working with DI4D.
Commenting on its first investment into DI4D, Percipient Capital director Jason Gould said: “Percipient Capital is delighted to have made its first investment into DI4D. We have been very impressed by the excellent progress made by DI4D and in particular its recent work on several high profile movies, visual effects and video game projects, and we are pleased to be able to assist the company as it enters a new phase of accelerated growth. We look forward to working closely with Tim and the DI4D team and to providing further assistance in future as required.”
For more information visit di4d.com
Innovation Centre based Dimensional Imaging Ltd (DI4D), a world-leading facial capture company, has completed a £900,000 investment that will enable them to expand into North America.
£900,000 growth investment for leading facial capture company
Tim Christian with Colin Urquhart CEO, Dimensional Imaging and Jason Gould
New rehearsal space hits the right note
Scottish Opera, Scotland’s national opera company, has opened a new 5,762 sq ft rehearsal space right in the heart of Hillington Park.
Alex Reedijk of Scottish Opera (centre) with Hillington Park’s Roddy Proudfoot (L) and Jamie Cumming (R)
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Welcome to the Spring edition of the Hillington Herald; this season is synonymous with growth and new beginnings which fits in perfectly with current activity around the Park.
Last year was a big year for development and improvement at Hillington Park and it will continue into 2017.
No-one could fail to miss the exciting building activity as they enter the Park from the M8. The ‘Motorcycle Village’, new Jaguar and Volvo showrooms and Evolution Court - just a few hundred yards along Mossland Road – will add to the Park’s appeal and bring thousands of new visitors creating business opportunities for those already based here.
Each of these new build projects have been delivered under the Park’s Simplified Planning Zone (SPZ) guidelines. I announced our aspiration for Hillington Park to become Scotland’s first Simplified Planning Zone (SPZ) back in 2014 and we achieved SPZ status later that year, in partnership with Renfrewshire and Glasgow City Councils.
So it’s now great to see that the SPZ concept is being recognised and adopted across Scotland, from just along the road from us in Renfrew Town Centre, right up to Peterhead in the north east.
The simple premise of an SPZ is that all the planning guidelines have been approved in advance. If a proposed development falls within the agreed parameters then a works programme could begin within weeks of approval.
There is a strong case too for the economic impact of an SPZ. Our initial research indicated that there was potential to add many hundreds of new jobs as well as creating many hundreds of millions of pounds of new wealth to the local Glasgow and Renfrewshire economies.
So it’s great that we are now seeing the positive impact of our SPZ come to life.
This year we’ll be continuing to invest in our existing commercial property stock. We have a number of large properties which are being brought up to the highest standard and to the levels that the market demands. We’re confident that that will result in more successful businesses coming to the Park.
We also hope to have even more good news to share with you later on in the year as big names and exciting new businesses make the Park their home. Our burgeoning business community continues to attract companies of all sectors who are doing great things.
This edition of the Hillington Herald has our usual collection of inspiring business stories which always seem to encourage others who read about them. We always want to share good news about organisations based here so don’t hesitate to run your story past my colleague Louise on 0141 891 8294 or by email at [email protected].
As ever, if there is anything you’d like to discuss about doing business on the Park then please do get in touch by calling the management offices on 0141 883 5760.
Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to let you know that after four very enjoyable years of managing the Park, I’ve decided to move on from Hillington to focus on other opportunities. I would like to wish you all the very best for your continued success in the future.
Best wishes
Jamie
Are you following Hillington Park on Twitter? Find us @HillingtonPark
Your Park...Jamie Cumming, Commercial Director
Q. What’s your role and what’s your average day like?
I am the Marketing and Travel Plan Manager for Hillington Park and as it’s a varied role each day is different. My main role is to carry out our marketing plan for the year and this involves working on new brochures for the Park that includes our most recent development sites and updating our website design and structure which has been an exciting project to be involved in.
As Travel Plan Manager I am working on sustainable travel options which is an interesting and hot topic at the moment. I need to look at giving employees and visitors a real choice in how they travel to and from the Park. So far we have completed research into pay as you go electric cars, have delivered a car sharing scheme, Liftshare, and we’re exploring other options such as hire bikes this year.
Q. What do you like about working at Hillington Park?
Hillington Park is a great place to work as there are so many different businesses here and a fantastic business community that I am delighted to be part of. It’s an exciting time to be part of the Park and it is great to see how it has changed over the years.
Q. What’s the best advice you have ever received?
Treat people the way you would like to be treated – I’m a big believer in this.
Q. What’s your proudest moment?
A few years ago I decided to go back to college to complete a Chartered Institute of Marketing Diploma while I was working full-time. It was a balancing act but it was a year of hard work and dedication that paid off. It was a great sense of achievement and gaining my new qualification has lead me to great opportunities.
Q. Favourite film and book?
I love comedies and one of my favourites is The Wedding Singer as it makes me laugh every time I see it. My favourite book is The Five People you meet in Heaven by Mitch Alborn.
Q. How do you relax?
I enjoy to cook and bake and like watching cookery programmes like Masterchef and the Great British Bake Off. I also find Yoga a really good way to unwind.
Connect with Louise on LinkedIn
linkedin.com
In the first of our Meet the Team series, we get to know Marketing and Travel Plan Manager Louise O’Connell.
Meet the team
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Its four separate units, ranging in size from 17,728 sq ft to 23,530 sq ft, were completed just seven months after the construction phase began in June 2016.
With likely interest coming from the manufacturing, logistics and distribution industries, the short building period was achieved thanks in part to the Park’s Simplified Planning Zone (SPZ) guidelines, which allow for an accelerated development process by using its pre-agreed planning regulations.
Jamie Cumming from Hillington Park said: “Evolution Court is a tremendous example of what can be achieved using the Park’s SPZ guidelines. In approximately nine months we moved from the detailed design through to the completion of the construction phase. It is now one of the most modern developments of its kind in Scotland and we’re confident it will appeal to a range of industries.”
Evolution Court is a joint venture between Oaktree Capital Management and Patrizia AG.
For more information visit hillingtonpark.com/evolution-court
Evolution Court now open for businessNew £6million commercial development now complete and ready for lease
This space has been completely reconfigured by Land Engineering to create a more useable outdoor, elegant seating plaza.
The raised planters, narrow paths and dense shrub planting have all been removed and open paved seating formed with a grass perimeter and feature planting installed.
High quality paving finishes with contrasting bands of colour run across the plaza, to align with low level shrub planted strips in the gently sloping grass edge. Some specimen trees and shrubs have also been incorporated towards the roadside and provision has been made for lighting.
Initial planting clearance works have also been undertaken on the opposite side of the roundabout at Jubilee Court and works will now be undertaken to continue the design approach being implemented at the Earl Haig Road junction.
Environmental improvement works are nearing completion at the junction of Earl Haig Road and Montrose Avenue.
Green for go for new plaza
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The units, which provide 80,000 sq ft of commercial space, are currently benefiting from a modernisation programme making them highly desirable to businesses in the manufacturing, logistics & distribution and large scale retail sectors.
Roddy Proudfoot, Head of Asset Management, said: “Demand for large commercial space has always been strong at Hillington Park and with the modernisation of these units due to complete soon we are confident that they will appeal to many businesses which are either looking to expand or move into central Scotland for the first time.
“The type of businesses operating here has expanded significantly over recent years with the renewables, technology and service sectors becoming as prominent as the more traditional manufacturing, engineering and retail businesses. These large, flexible units will appeal to a wide range of organisations and range in size from 9,871 sq ft to 30,494 sq ft.”
Examples of the modernised units include 46-48 Kelvin Avenue, 2-6 Carlyle Avenue and 2 Jubilee Court.
Roddy added: “The type of improvements being made to these properties include full strip out and refurbishment of warehouse and office space, new heating and lighting systems, recertification of all building services and full redecoration.
“Of course, the appeal of these properties isn’t just about their size or their recent upgrades but is also about their locations next to the M8 and the wider transport network, its proximity close to Glasgow International Airport and being part of a large business community with access to many amenities that staff will benefit from.”
Interest in any of these properties can be expressed by contacting the management team on 0141 883 5760 or email [email protected]
A variety of industrial units at Hillington Park will soon return to the market following an extensive refurbishment.
£1million upgrading programme nears completion
2 Jubilee Court - 30,494 sq ft/2,833 sq m high quality industrial unit with offices and secure yard
2-6 Carlyle Avenue - 15,091 sq ft/1,401 sq m industrial unit with offices and secure yard
46-48 Kelvin Avenue - 12,530 sq ft/1,164 sq m industrial unit
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The proposed 47,348 sq ft development, will be located off Mossland Drive opposite the new Taggarts Motor Group showrooms, just off the M8 at junction 26.
Jamie Cumming said: “There will be ten individual units ranging from 3,530 sq ft to 6,339 sq ft which will appeal to various trade counter operators. We know that Hillington Park’s location is already a major draw for tradespeople and a trade counter facility would add to that appeal.
“From a business perspective, visibility is highly desirable in this sector and the new site will be in one of the most prominent positions on the Park. We have already have expressions of interest from the industry and hope to progress our plans later in 2017.”
This development has been designed using the Park’s Simplified Planning Zone (SPZ) guidelines which simplifies and streamlines planning regulations.
For more information contact the management team on 0141 883 5760
The two purpose built showrooms, along with a new workshop and service facility, are located at the entrance to Hillington Park, next to Junction 26 on the M8 motorway.
Jamie Cumming said: “Everyone arriving at Hillington Park from the M8 will have seen the impressive new structures going up. As the next few months progress they will really begin to take shape and the design will really stand out.”
The main contractor on the project is Glasgow based Bell Building Projects.
This development used the Simplified Planning Zone (SPZ) guidelines – which simplifies and streamlines planning regulations.
For more information on Taggarts visit www.taggarts.co.uk
New business to be served up at ‘trade counter’
New Taggarts development motors along
Plans for new development announced
Construction of Taggarts Motor Group’s new Jaguar and Volvo showrooms is gathering pace with building works on schedule to complete by autumn 2017.
(left to right) Jamie Cumming, Sasha Norcliffe and Michael Shaw from Lookers plc with Martin Bell from Bell Building Projects
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Lockwell Electrical, which already operates 19 branches across England and Wales, has opened its new branch at Unit 7 on Kelvin Gate and has an eye on opening more in the future.
The company, which is already a leading distributor of electrical and maintenance, repair and operations (MRO) products to industry, identified Hilllington Park as the ideal location for its new distribution and service centre due to its industrial heritage and direct links to a strong transport network.
Dougie Thomson, Manager of Lockwell Electrical at Hillington Park said: “The business itself has over 30 years’ experience in this sector so is well placed to know exactly what the needs of industrial and commercial customers are. We have an extensive range of products and services including specialist control & automation, power, motor control, safety and monitoring products.
“Currently there are three of us within the branch and, amongst us, we have almost 100 years’ experience within the electrical industry including supply authorities, manufacturing, mines and minerals and of course electrical wholesaling so we’re are very confident about helping customers and responding to any issues they may have.
“When Lockwell decided to open in Glasgow, Hillington Park was the first choice location. It is renowned for its industrial heritage, which can be traced back many years, and there is still a large presence of industrial engineering within the Park, which was one of the main attractions. The ease of access to and from the motorway network around Glasgow was also a deciding factor.
“We are looking to establish ourselves as the ‘go-to’ industrial wholesaler, not only in Hillington Park, but across the country. As the business grows and the demand is created, we would look to establish a presence with branches across Scotland.”
For more information visit lockwell.co.uk
Skyform, based on Watt Road, was set up by Jim and Hazel Campbell in 1994 and since then has increased turnover to over £10million, invested in on-site training facilities and grown its workforce to nearly 150 people.
With offices also in Aberdeen and Grimsby and contracts secured in Belgium, Germany, Ireland and Italy, Skyform now has several divisions working in; access, general construction, specialised construction, liquid plastic roofing, traditional roofing, a one-stop-shop for maintenance of offshore and onshore windfarms, concrete repairs, cladding and glazing.
Originally founded to provide and install power access systems for working at height in the construction industry, the family business works with high profile private and public sector clients across its divisions.
Skyform’s current work includes providing maintenance for 2000 offshore and onshore turbines, Hunterston nuclear power station and has recently secured its first solar farm contract. This year, it has appointed two new directors to the company as it positions itself for the future.
Peter Judd, Business Development Manager, Skyform said: “Over the years we’ve expanded into different markets after identifying growth opportunities in various sectors. This has led to us increasing the number of industries we are working in and taking on specialists in each area. We now work in energy, environmental, education and housing with clients including councils across Scotland, SSE, Scottish Power, Cameron House, Diageo, Siemens and a variety of prestigious housing developers.
“It’s a really exciting time at Skyform as we look to build on our previous success this year. Since 1994, the company has always been forward thinking and keen to embrace new technologies and markets. Our two new directors will have a positive impact on our future with Paul Miller being promoted to Construction Director and Paul Heath newly joining us from Brookfield Multiplex as our Commercial Director. These appointments reflect the direction we want to go as a company and we all believe that 2017 will be another very prosperous year.”
Skyform’s on-site training centre includes a power climber and hoist and allows engineers to learn how to undertake wind turbine safety checks, identify potential issues and troubleshoot solutions. This enables the company to develop a multi-skilled workforce able to perform a range of duties.
After picking up the Scottish Roofing Contractor of the Year award in late 2016, Skyform are hoping that going forward it can continue to impress, win prestigious contracts and further train and develop the solid team it has created.
Peter added: “Jim, Hazel and their son James have invested heavily in ensuring Skyform is in the best position possible to continue to secure these projects and deliver to the highest quality, on time and within budget. Our company philosophy is investing in people and that’s why we set up our own in-house training facilities at our HQ here at Hillington Park.
“We will continue our commitment to quality and a client centred approach which we hope will contribute in creating more opportunities for growth and new business ventures.”
For more information visit skyform.co.uk
A growing business with aspirations of becoming the go-to industrial wholesaler in Scotland has opened its first branch north of the border.
An award-winning company that provides access and construction solutions for a range of clients in numerous industries, has undergone unprecedented growth over the last few years.
Expansion is the key for Lockwell
Sky’s the limit for on-form company
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West Coast Harley-Davidson, Ducati Glasgow and Triumph Glasgow will open their new purpose built showrooms this spring and in turn create a ‘must visit’ destination for fans of the three iconic motorbike brands.
The well-known businesses of West Coast Harley Davidson and Ducati Glasgow have relocated from two locations in the centre of Glasgow to Hillington Park to allow for expansion previously prohibited by the buildings housing their city centre operations. This move creates a large scale motorbike experience that includes ample car and motorbike parking to accommodate many visitors.
As part of the new opening, West Coast Harley-Davidson will launch two new arms to its business - ‘West Coast Moto’ and ‘Rapid Fit’. West Coast Moto will complement the main retail business by selling motorbikes which have been traded-in and Rapid Fit will provide specialist tyre and oil change services.
Rogers, Rees & Robins, the parent company behind Ducati Glasgow is also launching four completely new elements to its side of the complex. The most eagerly anticipated of which is the launch of a brand-new Triumph Glasgow dealership with the same state of the art facilities as its sister Ducati store. Separating both dealerships in the heart of the new building is another new addition to the West of Scotland; a Dainese Pro Store, specialising in made to measure motorcycle safety apparel.
Don Rutherford from West Coast Harley-Davidson said: “After 17 very successful years at our dealership in Charing Cross Glasgow we’re really excited about moving to our new purpose built 18,000 sq ft showroom and service facility at Hillington Park. It’s the result of three years of planning and preparation and our new building will be home to this iconic brand and provide unprecedented access for all bikers and enthusiasts.”
Martin Rees from Ducati Glasgow and Triumph Glasgow said: “We started planning a move to a new, bigger location as early as 2012 when we recognised that the size of our showroom on Great Western Road was simply restricting our ambitions to offer a complete one-stop-shop motorcycling experience. Creating a ground-up, brand new destination for motorbike fans, something that had never been done in Scotland before and to our knowledge doesn’t exist anywhere else in the UK, is the most exciting thing we have attempted as a small, family business.”
The two new showrooms, which are only 200 metres off Junction 26 on the M8, will also feature workshop, service and MOT facilities as well as two cafés.
Don added: “We know this’ll be huge. This is what Scotland and Scottish bikers have been crying out for ages for, a motorcycle heaven right on their doorstep.”
For more information visit westcoastharley.com and ducatiglasgow.co.uk
The first Motorcycle Village in the UK has moved to the starting line and the green light is set to go
‘Motorcycle Village’ revs up for new opening
Cowal Design Consultants was formed in 2005 to provide civil and structural engineering services in Argyll and since then has quadrupled its turnover and taken on more staff.
With offices in Dunoon, Oban, London and now at Hillington Park, Cowal Design have a host of high profile clients and projects including the Hunter Laing distillery at Ardnahoe, a new hotel for Argyll Holidays and Portavadie Marina.
Neil Ferguson, Managing Director said: “Since setting up the business almost 12 years ago we have worked on nearly 1500 projects for home owners, public and private sector developers across the country. The sectors we’ve been involved in have included residential, leisure, retail, education, healthcare and historical building developments, all of which have led to our steady growth.
“Moving to the Innovation Centre, where we have a large modern office, reflects our vision for the future as it is ideal for our business and any subsequent growth. The facilities are excellent and the free parking and close proximity to the motorway is perfect for our staff and clients.”
The company’s plans for the coming year is to grow the business with work for existing clients whilst developing new relationships via its wider network. Building on its customer service and affordable fees, which have proven beneficial to date, Cowal Design hope to take on more staff and potentially open a fifth office in a new location as it moves forward.
An Innovation Centre based structural engineering company extends its operations with the opening of its fourth office.
Expansion brings design company to the fore
For more information please visit cowaldesign.co.uk
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Vokèra had outgrown its previous premises and moving into Cameron Court is another sign of the company’s commitment to offering the very best for both staff and visitors.
The company, one of the main UK boiler brands, is renowned for its comprehensive range of energy efficient appliances, including the Unica i, Vision and Mynute i, and has a reputation for excellence in customer service, support and training.
Alister Maclachlan, Product Director, Vokèra said: “Scotland is an important market for us, which is why the office was set up 25 years ago. We were in our previous premises since the beginning but as business and market requirements change, it no longer met our needs. We decided to re-locate nearby to new bespoke premises in Hillington Park, which provides fantastic connections via road, rail and air. We have specifically designed our new offices to meet our requirements, providing a fresh, modern feel, reflecting the innovative and forward-thinking approach Vokèra is known for.”
The new building also includes specially created training facilities with bespoke test rigs set to help installers,
specifiers, and sales people understand the exciting
features and benefits of the products and control packages. All of Vokèra’s technical training courses will be available at the centre and you can find out more by emailing [email protected]
The company’s product portfolio also includes a full range of ancillaries and control devices to optimise ease of installation and efficiency still further. Vokèra also supplies the market with a commercial boiler range, unvented cylinders, gas fired water heaters, solar thermal collectors and air source heat pumps. Established over 30 years ago, Vokèra has steadily grown and now has bases across the UK and Ireland to support each installation and every installer.
Phil Adams, Managing Director at Vokèra, added: “We are delighted to be investing in new premises in Scotland which is the home of our product and technical departments, as well as providing facilities for our engineers and sales force. The team has been doing fantastic work and as our business continues to grow, Vokèra looks forward to another 25 years of success in Scotland.”
For more information please visit vokera.co.uk
One of the UK’s leading heating manufacturer celebrated its 25th anniversary in Scotland by relocating to a new state-of-the art building on the Park.
Vokèra celebrates 25 years of history in Scotland
Phil Adams
Outlet Optical supplies prescription glasses and sunglasses at what it describes as ‘internet prices’ and since starting out in 2008 at Hillington Park, has had to move into larger premises twice, as the business expanded.
And with further development in its plans, the business, based on Kelvin Avenue, aims to set up an optical laboratory enabling it to offer a same day glazing facility for prescription glasses.
Gerry Cantley from Outlet Optical said: “Our vision for the business was simple. We looked at the prices being charged for prescription glasses on the High Street and realised that with our decades of experience in the optical trade we could do a lot better. So far we’ve been proven right as we have kept growing ever since recently reaching our 10,000th customer, with many of them returning regularly when they want to replace their glasses. What’s great too is that they are recommending us to their friends which is a great endorsement.
“We chose Hillington Park as it provided easy access by car from the M8 as well as bus and rail routes. We also knew that lots of people visit many retail outlets here – bathrooms, furniture, tiles, flooring, plumbing and cars so we knew there was a strong market already here.
“At the start we had a small unit in Hepburn Road and then moved to a larger unit at the same locale as we kept growing. We’ve now moved for a third time to a location that gives us a higher profile and with more passing trade.”
Roddy Proudfoot from Hillington Park added: “Optical Outlet is a good example of how businesses can grow here. They are a technical business with a strong retail presence and we’ve been able to work with them to help their expansion.”
For more information please call 0141 882 9358
A fast growing optical business is celebrating a double success after reaching its 10,000th customer and opening its new outlet.
Optical business has an eye on expansion
A fast growing optical business is celebrating a double success after reaching its 10,000th customer and opening its new outlet.
Optical business has an eye on expansion
Gerry Cantley and Aileen Friel
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The project involving Jaw Brew and Aulds, came about through a Glasgow Chamber of Commerce initiative to identify ways for the city’s economy to be more circular.
The bakery handed over unsold morning rolls to Jaw Brew for the making of the beer, allowing both businesses to put leftovers to good use.
Alison and Mark Hazell, launched Jaw Brew in 2014, using their home-brewing skills to produce a range of beers.
They were joined by one of their sons, Alick in 2015 who is the main brewer. He set to work testing and experimenting until he created the blond style ABV 2.2%, a tasty full bodied beer.
In early January Jaw Brew undertook the first commercial brew of Hardtack, bottling some of it to be taken to Davos, Switzerland by Scottish Government representatives.
Glasgow is only the second city in the world, after Amsterdam, to take on the ambitious environmental project, leading to a commendation from the AB InBev Award for Circular Economy Governments, Cities and Regions.
Alison said: “The project fitted in well with our commitment to keep all our activities as green as we can. We experimented using different quantities of rolls and malt, varieties of hops and even non-standard yeasts. It became apparent that including bread increased the body of the beer without adding to the alcohol content and therefore focus moved to brewing a low alcohol beer that had some depth. We are delighted with the outcome and the commendation and hopefully many more people will get to enjoy our Hardtack this year.”
For more information on Jaw Brew visit jawbrew.co.uk
RS100 founded by Roddy Stewart has customers across Europe and the UK including popular Glasgow restaurants The Anchor Line, DiMaggio’s, G71 and Paesano, as well as national names such as Rick Stein, London 2012, Burger King and Subway.
Now Roddy and his team are in the process of transforming a unit on Kelvin Avenue into a state-of-the-art showroom complete with LED dancefloor, allowing potential clients to actually see RS100 Systems range in situ.
RS100 Systems sell a large range of speakers and amplifiers, from background music systems for bars and restaurants to larger ones for hotel function suits and nightclubs.
The business also stocks a wide range of products including smoke machines, laser lights and mobile DJ equipment.
Roddy said: “We will be the first Scottish company to do something like this so it’s a very exciting project. We are hoping to establish our new Hillington Park location as a destination for both trade customers and the public from
all over Scotland. We already work with some of the biggest names in the leisure industry and we hope to continue to offer the very best in sound and lights.”
The unit, which is due to open imminently, will also include a Sonos room where people can see how the wireless home sound system works and how it can be adapted to their house.
The company also offers the hiring of projectors, screens, Led Uplighters, PA with radio mics, DIY DJ equipment and Karaoke machines with up to 1000 songs ideal for parties and hen nights.
Roddy added: “We moved here as we really do feel Hillington Park is the perfect place for us to be. The Park has changed a lot and the units are modern, flexible and affordable. Not only are we close to Braehead and the motorway, but we’re in the middle of a busy business park with potential customers all around us.”
For more information visit rs100.co.uk
A company which supplies Pro sound and lighting as well as DJ equipment to hotels, restaurants, bars and leisure clubs is opening Scotland’s first nightclub showroom to properly display its wide range of products.
A micro-brewery on the Park has teamed up with a famous Scottish bakery to create beer from bread receiving a commendation by the World Economic Forum in the process.
Global award for bread into beer project
Professional sound and lighting company set to light up Hillington Park
Roddy Stewart
Community News
10
Hillington Park was specially chosen along with two other test sites – Barcelona and Lyon – to demonstrate the new eco-friendly electrical vehicle.
The model was parked outside the Innovation Centre as academics from Aberdeen University, who are working on the project, and representatives from Peter Davidson Consultancy Ltd who undertook the travel research briefed Hillington Park’s management team and guests from both Renfrewshire and Glasgow Councils, Travel Scotland, SPT and more.
The purpose built, light-weight vehicle is designed for users to use it to facilitate short trips between two distinct locations and can be stacked together to save space.
With car sharing schemes expanding throughout Europe, ESPRIT wanted to create a system that provided greater energy efficiency, whilst also reducing congestion as well as noise and air pollution.
Louise O’Connell, the Travel Plan Manager said: “It was fantastic to actually see and feel the prototype and whilst it wasn’t the fully finished model, it gave people on the Park the chance to see for themselves what it will look like.”
ESPRIT is a leading project in the European Commission’s Green Vehicles Sub-Programme of Horizon 2020 and will continue until 2018. There will be demonstration events on the Park and in Barcelona and Lyon.
Held at the Innovation Centre on Wednesday, 26th April at 9am, the event in partnership with Developing the Young Workforce (DYW) West will inform companies of the business support, recruitment incentives, grants and training schemes on offer once you sign up to the programme.
Big Bear Bakery, based on Hillington Park for ten years, used Invest in Renfrewshire’s services to initially employ an additional member of staff. However, after further expansion owner Ian Pediani accessed Invest in Renfrewshire’s Vacancy Management Service to source a further two employees.
Ian said: “Our business has been growing and the services Renfrewshire Council’s Invest in Renfrewshire team have been able to offer us has taken the pain out the recruitment process. The Invest in Renfrewshire team has really helped in enabling our business to expand and to look at new markets and deliver bigger volumes of products.”
Bob Davidson, DYW West Programme Director, said: “As Scotland’s largest business park, Hillington Park is home to organisations from a broad range of sectors. We are seeking to engage with employers to help young people at school & college understand more about the world of work and skills employers look for. Attendees will also hear about the work DYW West are doing already across the West Region and how Hillington Park businesses can get involved.”
To book your place call Therese McKendrick on 0141 618 6413 or email [email protected]
The Invest in Renfrewshire team will also be at the Innovation Centre from 1pm to 4pm the first Wednesday of every month starting from the 3rd May.
For more information visit investinrenfrewshire.com
Businesses learn how to invest in Renfrewshire
A look into the future with ESPRIT
Invest in Renfrewshire, a council initiative aimed at reducing unemployment and helping the local economy to grow, is hosting a breakfast event encouraging Park businesses to get involved.
Businesses on Hillington Park got the chance to see the proto-type of ESPRIT’s innovative mobility system that will be officially tested on the Park in future.
Community News
11
The UK City of Culture programme, run by the UK Government, aims to use culture and creativity as a catalyst for change and winning the 2021 title will have significant benefits for Paisley and Renfrewshire.
A successful bid is expected to have a positive effect on the local business community, creating up to 800 new and sustainable jobs for local people, grow the economy and generate an estimated economic impact of £50m across Renfrewshire.
There are many ways in which you can support Paisley’s entry including; signing a letter backing the bid, downloading the official logo to display on your website, engage on social media, provide a quote explaining why you think bidding is a good thing and staging a photo opportunity with media.
It is estimated that around a million visitors will descend on Renfrewshire in 2021 if Paisley achieves its goal, with every penny spent directly helping communities and local businesses. As well as making it easy for every child and family in the area
to access and join in with cultural activities, the win would transform Paisley’s image nationally and internationally.
Paisley 2021 Bid Director Jean Cameron said: “Paisley’s bid to be UK City of Culture 2021 has already had fantastic support from throughout the local community, and our local businesses have been central to that. That includes a number of firms based at Hillington Park, which is home to many great creative businesses, and we see Hillington as a key part of the cultural fabric of Renfrewshire and of the bid.
“A successful bid will bring huge benefits for all of Renfrewshire – from the economic impact of bringing in huge numbers of visitors, to the social benefits of involving thousands of local people in cultural activity. Any firms based at Hillington Park can find out more about how to show their support for the bid on our website at paisley2021.co.uk – and we would be delighted to hear from you.”
Paisley’s bid to be named City of Culture 2021 is ramping up as the contest enters its last few months before the shortlist is announced.
Businesses urged to show support for Paisley’s City of Culture bid
Big-hearted Park workers set for Kenya tripStaff at Centura Court based McNicholas are travelling to Kenya to help build schools, houses and other public structures.
Pictured (L-R): Marcus Bain, Daniel O’Neil and teammates Alan Hannah and Anthony Mitchell
McNicholas is a leading provider of services to the UK’s multi-utility, telecommunications, gas, power, water, renewable energy and rail sectors.
Two members of the Hillington Park office, Daniel O’Neil and Marcus Bain are from due to fly out to the East African country in September, spending two weeks working in the city of Nakuru.
As well as helping to build much needed facilities, Daniel and Marcus will also be teaching young children in Kenya’s fourth largest town where small-scale agriculture, manufacturing and tourism are the backbone of the region’s economy.
Daniel said: “Kenya is a country of real contrasts with breath-taking scenery, amazing wildlife and tourism on one hand, and extreme poverty on the other. African Adventures work in Nakuru and aims to challenge the poverty that plights the region. We aim to make an impact in our
two weeks working on projects focused on teaching, sports, building and renovations.
“Any donations will predominantly go towards resources for building and teaching as well as management fees associated with the trip, so if anyone can spare even the smallest amount, it will be for a great cause. This is something we feel very passionately about and we can’t wait until September to meet the lovely people of Nakuru.”
You can support Daniel and Marcus by sponsoring them or taking part in fundraising plans including a charity poker tournament, race nights, charity balls and a Ben Nevis climb. Also, the pair will be taking children’s clothes over with them and are taking donations of unwanted or new clothes for children through to teen.
To find out more about how to donate visit youcaring.com/africanadventures-743413 or call McNicholas on 0141 891 4110.
Hillington Park News
Availability of Accommodation
Contact the management team on
0141 883 5760
To keep up-to-date with availability visit www.hillingtonpark.com
Hillington Park Management Team, Innovation Centre, 1 Ainslie Road, G52 4RU
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Merlin Business Centre Various Suites 171 - 1,060 15 - 98 C+
Carlson House 1st Floor – West Wing 4,000 371 D
Innovation Centre Various Suites 107 - 1,109 10 - 103 C
