Scotland’s new tourist tax is put firmly under the spotlight in our latest edition of Business HQ Monthly.
In our Big Read, Brian Donnelly reports that an architect of the famous North Coast 500 route has criticised plans to introduce the tourist tax, warning it could “erode private sector investment”.
Robin Worsnop, founder of Edinburgh-based Rabbie’s Tours, is among a chorus of business voices who have raised concerns over the creation of an additional charge for visitors.
Meanwhile, Scott Wright reveals two of the best-known figures on the Scottish commercial property scene have signalled hope that a brighter future can be secured for Glasgow’s ageing office stock, as debate rages over how best to reverse the declining fortunes of the city centre.
Andy Cunningham and Colin Mackenzie, of Glasgow agency MC2, say the trend of repurposing older properties could underpin ambitions to encourage more people to live in Glasgow city centre, with many buildings ripe for conversion into residential use.
Read more: Business HQ Monthly
- 'Cutthroat tendering that goes on is only creating a race to the bottom'
- Scotland's seafood industry goes fishing for greater value
- North Coast 500 architect slams 'damaging' SNP tourist tax
Kristy Dorsey reports on plans by representatives of Scotland’s £1.3 billion seafood industry to join global efforts to extract more value for the sector following an Icelandic initiative that has seen the price of fish skins outstrip that of the flesh that is eaten.
Seafood Scotland chief executive Donna Fordyce revealed the aim is to boost business profitability and overall sustainability by creating new markets for that which currently goes to waste or is used in low-value products such as fishmeal.
I interview Derek Innes, who has built Hamilton-based Procast Group into a major retrofit contractor with a turnover of £50 million in its last financial year, having launched the business with only three employees after leaving North Lanarkshire Council to set up on his own around 12 years ago.
Mark Williamson reports that North Sea industry leaders have warned the Labour Government risks triggering a “hard stop” to investment in the area with tax changes, as they insist that oil and gas firms make a huge contribution to the UK’s prosperity.
Read more: Business HQ Monthly
- 'The Courtyard represents the evolution of workspace'
- Tourism chief says visitor tax 'carries substantial risk'
The University of Strathclyde’s highly regarded Fraser of Allander Institute offers its insights into the Scottish economy.
Mark McDougall writes about a Glasgow school that has employed its first ever director of innovation in a bid to turn pupils into young entrepreneurs.
Jody Harrison interviews Adrian Murphy, chief executive of Murphy Wealth, while Colin Cardwell speaks to Sarah Peterson of xBuro.
And Paul English takes a close look at the sneaker refurbishment business.
Scott Wright highlights those in business who have had a good month . . . and those who have not.
The Herald’s business writers share their expert perspectives on key business and economic developments as they reflect on what they have been writing about during the past month. There has again been plenty going on.
Meanwhile, fashion entrepreneur Antoinette Fionda-Douglas and business and life coach Ed Haddon offer their personal insights in their regular columns.
Stuart Patrick, chief executive of Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, meanwhile shares his views on the Commonwealth Games.
I hope you enjoy our latest edition and find it informative.
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