Collective action to help solve the productivity puzzle
In the context of widespread economic uncertainty, the need to improve UK productivity looms large. Much has been written about the UK ‘productivity puzzle’ of low relative productivity (lagging all…
Pressure on all fronts as recession looms
Financial turmoil will create significant challenges for spending, investment and taxes as Scotland moves into 2023 The market volatility witnessed in the aftermath of the last mini budget brought a…
Energy crisis looms over new leader
The new Prime Minister faces a cost-of-living crisis and greater than usual uncertainty in public finances. At the time of writing, the energy price cap for households, due to rise…
Going Forrit
The Edinburgh-based software company is set for massive expansion in the next 18 months. But Forrit is very far from being an overnight success, as its founder Peter Proud explains…
Cost emergency challenges our rural communities
The cost-of-living emergency is hurting people and businesses everywhere and is acute for the 450,000 people who work in, and 50,000 businesses based in, rural Scotland. Energy and fuel costs…
MM Search ends its fourth year in business on a high
MM Search, Scotland’s award-winning and fastest-growing executive search firm, is coming to the end of a highly successful fourth year in business. The headhunter has enjoyed financial growth, doubled its…
Stamp of authority from a philately guru
Scotland’s pre-eminent coin and postage stamp dealer, Robert Murray, is moving towards semi-retirement and quietly selling off various collections. He has been a leader in his field for 45 years…
Businesses being asked again to rise to economic challenges
Inflation, labour shortages and global uncertainty are combining to make it a tough time for businesses as well as consumers. But there are ways to adapt and emerge stronger from…
Why ‘business with purpose’ has to be the mantra for the future
If there was ever an age in which it was acceptable for businesses simply to make money it has long since passed. Societal expectations are constantly evolving and businesses need…
Industry faces up to Covid and Brexit challenges
Construction sector dealing with surge in demand, materials supply, rising prices and labour shortages In recent weeks, problems around supply chains have been causing headaches in different ways. Consumers are…
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Why we’re at a crossroads on the journey to net zero
The SCDI blueprint outlines opportunities for a collaborative green industrial revolution The Scottish Council for Development and Industry’s 2030 Blueprint, Making a Good Living, with its positive outlook and ambition for, among other things, clean energy and decarbonisation, arrives at a critical point in Scotland’s journey to net zero. Resilience needs to be built into our…
Ups and down of a rollercoaster corporate year
It’s been something of a roller coaster ride this year in Scotland’s corporate and M&A sector. That’s hardly surprising given the huge disruption caused by Covid-19. However, it hasn’t been…
Why green recovery is the best hope
Post-coronavirus focus must be on efforts to tackle climate change