OnTrade Scotland Magazine - June Edition 2021 by ontradescotland

ontradescotland.co.uk

ONE TRADE ONE INDUSTRY ONE HOSPITALITY FOR

THE BETTER OF ALL

Magazine Magazine June 2021

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Welcome to the June edition of OnTrade Scotland Magazine Firstly it is great to see a lot of you being able to serve alcohol indoors we know what this means to be able to trade and welcome customers back into the venues , however for the venues in Glasgow city who have at the point of going to production have a bit further to wait , we know how much disappointment this is causing and we understand the anger and frustration at the lack of notice being given to not only advise that you couldn’t trade indoors due to the apparent spike in 2 postcode areas in the city by Scottish government but also the short notice you will be potentially give to being allowed to open without these measures and the challenges that will cause with stock, staffing and other related knock on effects. This is why we are encouraging EVERYONE, all trade bodies, venues, owners, groups, independents, suppliers, contractors, industry charities, brands & trade press to properly come together as ONE voice and put any politics, rivalries, sector specifics or personal agendas to the side so that Scottish government have no option but to proactively engage properly on the key issues the trade has for THEIR benefit as well as the benefit of the ENTIRE industry. We have an opportunity to reset as an industry for the better of everyone in the trade we love. This is the responsibility of everyone not just the few who have the strong characters or platform to give their views because it leaves them open to attack and the point and message can be lost as valid as they are , it can’t be accused of being moaning or being greedy or being politically driven if it is a collective interaction from all of us not just a few in parallel. The great work being done by groups and trade bodies already is fantastic , however think what could actually be achieved as a joined up collective with the one agenda …. fairness, engagement and better for all of you. You may think who am I to call for this or what right does he have, however remember the definition of madness is to do the same thing over and over expecting a different outcome. STAY STRONG STAY POSITIVE & COME TOGETHER

Justin Wingate Director at TopGunMedia For press enquires or advertising opportunists please call or email: Email: info@topgunmedia.co.uk Telephone: 0141 556 4111

Warren Paul is the new president of The Ben.

The Spiritualist – Mixing up a true experience

Magnum Cream Liqueur Cocktails

Premier Sports becomes new title sponsor of the Scottish League Cup

Industry News LOCH TAY’S THE BOATHOUSE RE-OPENS FOLLOWING REFURBISHMENT Inspired by its waterside location and surrounding scenery, The Boathouse’s interior has been transformed to have a distinct and contemporary Scottish feel, and the team are now ready to welcome visitors from near and far. The venue, which includes an indoor restaurant and bar and a large outdoor area overlooking the water, is the perfect spot for a dinner to remember, lunch by the loch or relaxed drinks with friends this summer. A cluster of five cosy outdoor dining bothies are also now available to book that will keep people warm and dry during the unpredictable Scottish summer.

The Boathouse Kitchen and Bar, located within the grounds of Loch Tay Highland Lodges, is reopening its doors following a major redesign and refurbishment. The stunning restaurant and bar, perched at the edge of the picturesque loch and its marina near Killin, is now under the management of the hardworking team behind Mharsanta, Van Winkle and The Inchcolm Inn.

The Boathouse’s extensive menu boasts locally sourced and seasonal quality ingredients, championing fresh produce from Scotland’s rich natural larder. Scottish favourites including Shetland island mussels, freshly landed fish and chips and steak pie, alongside a fine selection of whiskys, wines and soft drinks. A perfect spot for dog lovers, The Boathouse also has a special nutritious dog-friendly menu, developed by BBC Radio Scotland’s resident vet Ross Allan from Pets‘n’Vets. The team are also looking to launch of selection of new activities and packages for people to enjoy, from private events, whisky tastings and waterfront BBQs, to live music, picnics and cooking demos.

NEW SUSTAINABLE CIDER BRAND, INCH’S, SET TO SHAKE UP THE MARKET

INTERNATIONAL INVESTORS ACQUIRE THE CRUSOE HOTEL

HEINEKEN has launched a new, progressive, and sustainable apple cider on draught, bringing vibrancy back to mainstream apple cider and engaging younger consumers.

The Crusoe Hotel in Lower Largo, East Neuk of Fife has been sold out of administration to international investors for an undisclosed sum.

Made with 100% British apples, grown, and sourced within 40 miles of its Herefordshire mill, Inch’s goes further to do its bit for the environment, turning all apple waste into green energy. Perfectly balanced between sweet and dry, Inch’s has exceptional taste credentials, with four out of five 18–34-yearolds preferring the taste to that of the nearest competitor. This May, HEINEKEN breathes new life into the on-trade with the launch of Inch’s – a sustainable, forward-thinking apple cider on draught, made from 100% British apples and with an exceptional taste that consumers already love[2]! Around 5 million pints of apple cider are poured in the on-trade every week and mainstream brands account for every two in three pints of apple cider. However, a lack of excitement and innovation has prompted younger drinkers to switch and now the cider category has started to decline. Delivering the widespread appeal of a modern, refreshing cider that is progressive and forward-looking, Inch’s has been created to bring vibrancy back to mainstream apple cider and engage younger consumers.

The long-established hotel overlooks the small fishing harbour of Lower Largo and has 16 en suite letting rooms, some with sea views, a resteraunt , meeting rooms and a lounge and public bar. The company which previously owned the hotel was placed into Administration on 28 August 2020. Following an “extensive” sales and marketing exercise, a closing date was set, and the hotel was sold to a private investors with vacant possession, for an undisclosed price. In a quick turnaround the investor sourced a new tenant, Graham Bucknall from TBC Pub Company, who added: “We are delighted to be taking on this iconic venue and we look forward to breathing new life into the business. It has not been a straightforward transaction, but Christie & Co have helped throughout and have been instrumental in getting the deal across the line. “They are one of the best in the business at putting motivated sellers and serious buyers together, and their knowledge of the licensed trade industry is second to none. As we continue to grow the TBC Pub Company in the years ahead, partly through acquisitions, Christie &Co will be a vital business partner to our growth strategy.”

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Brand News TENNENT’S SET TO CELEBRATE SUMMER OF FOOTBALL To launch the campaign, Scotland star Ryan Christie has delivered a rallying call to the nation in a stirring short film reflecting on his now infamous post-match interview in Serbia, which had the nation – and even Sir Alex Ferguson – in tears. Made For This is Tennent’s biggest campaign in over a decade, with outdoor advertising also live across Scotland and multichannel through the line activity planned throughout the summer.

With excitement building for Scotland’s return to European football for the first time in 23 years, Tennent’s Lager is ready to help fans enjoy a summer like no other. A new campaign, Made For This, has launched in recognition of the long-awaited return to a major men’s football finals, and to celebrate that the nation’s players and fans are made for the big occasion.

Over 1,300 bars across the country will be decked out with Tennent’s football supporter kits including limited-edition glassware to celebrate the milestone occasion. Tennent’s is also making over £10,000 worth of limited-edition Tennent’s X SFA tops and stylish trainers available as bar staff incentives, exclusively for Tennent’s Lager customers. Over 1 million promotional packs of Tennent’s Lager will be available in participating retailers nationwide – the brand’s biggest ever promotion – with 4,500 prizes up for grabs including personalised Tennent’s football tops, mini footballs, captain’s armbands and vouchers for the Tennent’s online store.

KAHLÚA CELEBRATES NEW BOTTLE DESIGN WITH FREE ESPRESSO MARTINI Kahlúa, the number one coffee liqueur, has launched a new bottle design with stronger coffee cues together with a more contemporary brand image to drive back bar appeal. To celebrate, Kahlúa is supporting the On-Trade and working with key partners to give away free Espresso Martini cocktails for one weekend only. The new bottle design expresses the brand’s authenticity in a bold way, heroing coffee liqueur messaging with an emphasis on real coffee claims and Mexican provenance. It also features a new brand logo complemented by a matt label finish to enhance the modern look and drive back-bar stand out. To celebrate the eye-catching new look, Kahlúa is offering a free Espresso Martini to customers of E-Pellici and Fort’s Margate with the purchase of a food item. The promotion will run between Friday 21st – Saturday 22nd May and the brand will be giving away 300 of the coffee cocktails

to consumers. Kahlúa is also helping to bring some fun to coffee consumption moments by partnering with local coffee shops across the country to add the much-loved Espresso Martini cocktail to their menus. Marnie Corrigan, Brand Director at Pernod Ricard UK, said: “Kahlúa Original has grown +90.6%[1] in value over the last 12 months, as consumers have embraced at-home cocktail making and experimenting with serves such as the much loved Espresso Martini. This trend is set to continue into the OnTrade as appreciation heightens for serves that are harder to master at home, and we’re confident Kahlúa’s modern new look will attract lovers of coffee cocktails. It’s been a challenging year for the On-Trade and we’re excited to help drive footfall through our Espresso Martini giveaway.” To coincide with the launch, Kahlúa Original has reduced its ABV to 16% to address evolving consumer trends towards conscious drinking and lower-alcohol offerings.

The President Takes Office Try serving the

Pink Spritz.

Mix: Pink Soda + Rosé Wine + Pink Grapefruit 1 Part • 1 Part • 1 Slice

Speak to your CCEP rep or visit my.CCEP.com (once registered) for supporting Schweppes POS kits and digital assets.

We are proud to speak with Warren Paul the new president of The Ben as he takes up post & hear his thoughts on the last 12 months, what charity has in the pipeline to provide even more help as well as discussing his path to the role itself.

I’ve worked in the Scottish Drinks and Hospitality Industry for the past 20 years first starting in publishing with the Food Guides of Edinburgh and Glasgow, helping to promote many restaurants across the central belt of Scotland. Ten years ago I launched my own company, Paramount Creative, which is a marketing, design, print and events business. Paramount Creative provide support for many of Glasgow’s top eateries, pubs and nightclubs. Our event division creates some of Scotland’s most vibrant events including the Molson Coors Scottish Entertainment Awards, Scottish Italian Awards and the Prestige Scottish Hotel Awards. These see us working with a vast number venues up and down the country promoting everything that is brilliant about the Scottish hospitality, leisure and tourism industry. I have been aware of the BEN for many years and was delighted to be approached a few years ago with a view to joining the board of directors, initially the responsibility was a bit overwhelming considering the legacy of the BEN and the huge number of people it represents and supports. The work they do is amazing and I’m immensely proud to be involved in supporting its continued success over the next few years, protecting the future of the BEN. The last twelve months have been the most challenging of all. The pandemic has

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Try serving the

Elderflower Fizz.

devastated our hospitality industry with many colleagues falling through the cracks, missing out on furlough due to lack of hours or fully employed contracts. The BEN have been working tirelessly to get support to those who need it most by helping pay towards rent deposits, travel costs for interviews and much more. We have helped more people than ever during this period thanks to the tremendous amount of support from many of the drinks brands and other businesses in the industry supporting the charity. These funds have been vital as the BEN itself was severely impacted by the cancellation of all its fundraising events. When trying to raise funds again, we needed to be creative and had great success with our online auctions raising thousands of pounds to go back out in grants to those in desperate need of help. The BEN is for everyone who works in the drinks and hospitality industry who have fallen on hard times. The BEN offers one-off grants and continued support where it’s needed. We consider every application on a case by case basis. You can get in touch with us via our offices or by social media on LinkedIn, Facebook or Instagram. As the industry slowly begins to reopen we are still helping those trying to get back to their work and others who have lost their jobs during the pandemic. We remain positive that the BEN will continue to be a source of vital support in the industry and we look forward to welcoming many of you back to our annual fundraiser, the BEN dinner, due to take place again next February. Like all charities we have been seriously affected but will be working harder than ever over the coming years to get our events and funding activities back on track.

Mix: Elderflower Tonic + Vodka + Cucumber 3 Parts • 1 Part • 3 Slices

Speak to your CCEP rep or visit my.CCEP.com (once registered) for supporting Schweppes POS kits and digital assets.

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The Spiritualist Mixing up a true experience This month we are in the mix by speaking to the very talented and inspirational Christine O’Hagan general manager of the famous Spiritualist in Glasgow’s Miller St on her role , customer experience, the heartbreak that has been the last 12 months and obviously cocktails.

I’ve been leading the team here at the Spiritualist for the past 2 years. And what at 24 months that’s been! I’ve always been drawn to venues that provide something different, unique, and forward thinking. I’m a creative-type and love that I can express this in my role here. From the development of the drinks and food innovation

& presentations, custom design of the venue, guest engagement and service. As a team we aim to be as welcoming and approachable as possible. The guest is king in our world! We will create a concoction just for you and happily take you through our range of wines & spirits. Our USP is our range, innovation, and desire to delight every time! From the massive gantry to the theatrical cocktail presentations, our goal is to make sure the guest is having a great time and feels at ease to navigate the unknown and find their new favourite drink. How have you found the last 12 months? From record breaking to heart-breaking: we had just come off the back of an incredible sales growth period at The Spiritualist when the

pandemic hit, and lockdown struck. We have tried to actively engage with our guests by keeping in touch via social media and we ran an incredibly successful “Cocktails at Home” over Christmas & Hogmanay. WE figure if our customers couldn’t come to us, we would go to them and after a guest survey that showed how much they had missed us, we launched the initiative which surpassed our expectations. This demonstrated that our customers hadn’t forgotten us, and our reopening plans are to be the very best version of ourselves we can be. Delight and repeat. How you have found your suppliers through this period? We have had great support from our suppliers over this period. We have had wonderful engagement with them with ideas to diversify our offer in these times. Our reopening plans are supported by the brands, and they aim to offer added value to both the business and customers where they can. What do the venue and yourself see as the offering customers will be looking for when they are back in venue and how the venue is shaping up for this? For us, it is all about the experience! We endeavour to provide a unique experience, thinking of

presentation and added extras, something to surprise and thrill our guests. From the bubble guns, dry ice, Cosmo frozen spheres. We know from the feedback we have received, that our guests are as excited to get back out celebrating and we are anticipating healthy demand. We are here to serve and have been beavering away on how to make the “welcome back” the best it can be. We have so many amazing new menu editions which we think will deliver on this most memorable of occasions! One of our new creations that we believe will go down a treat with our guests- Pink Rose- Tequila Rose, Ocho 8 Tequila, coconut milk, served with a mini cone filled with boozy Tequila Rose Sorbet(image attached) The overwhelming response from team is an excitement to get back to the service. It’s been brilliant to get together (in person and online) with the team for refresher training and perfecting the cocktails. Signature have focussed on training during lockdown and my team was grateful that connectivity and inclusion were the focus for the training programme. We have an exciting new partnership with House of Suntory. We have developed special edition cocktails using the concept of 3 symbolic colours in Japanese culture: White, Red, and Gold.

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The double agents. Distilled in secret. Enjoyed in private.

S M A L L B AT C H H A N D C R A F T E D S C OT T I S H G I N A N D VO D K A D I S T I L L E D I N T H E C A I R N G O R M S

www.ghqspirits.com

Magnum Cream Liqueur - tradition transformed Premium in every way.

Espresso Magnum Martini

Hard milkshake

The Magnum

25 ml Magnum 50ml Espresso 25ml Mr Black coffee liqueur 25ml Gomme. Method: Shake & Strain

50ml coconut milk, 25ml aged rum, 50ml magnum, 25ml agave syrup, Half a banana, Glass worth of ice. Add all ingredients to blender and blitz. Pour into hurricane glass and top with crushed ice if needed. Garnish with whipped cream and toasted coconut flakes.

25ml vodka, 12.5ml amaretto, 12.5ml choc liqueur, 50ml magnum, 12.5 caramel syrup, Drizzle caramel and choc sauce around doubles rocks glass and put in freezer. Shake up all ingredients and strain into glass with cubed ice. Garnish with caramel syrup and chocolate shavings

Indulgent class.

The Cranachan Cat

The Honey Cream

The Magnum Jack

25ml oat milk, 25ml Magnum, 25ml Cazcabel honey tequila, raspberry coulis and freeze dried raspberries

25ml Magnum, 25ml cazcabel honey, 12.5ml cazcabel honey, La phroaig float, cinnamon stick and orange twist

25ml Magnum, 25ml Apple Jack Daniels, 12.5mp Hennessy V.S., 25ml apple juice, a pinch of cinnamon and apple

Magnum - Single malt scotch whisky cream liqueur crafted and bottled in Scotland. Contained in a stainless-steel, quick-chill recyclable and reusable flask.

TOP GUN MEDIA IN ASSOCIATION WITH

All proceeds from the event go to

14 AUGUST 2021 - DOUBLETREE BY HILTON HOTEL GLASGOW CENTRAL

A REAL CELEBRATION FOR THE INDUSTRY

HOSTED BY GO RADIO’S GINA MCKIE PERFORMING LIVE

SALAMANDER STREET WARRIOR

PLUS SPECIAL GUESTS PRESENTING THE ONE TRADE AWARDS WELCOME RECEPTION FREE DRINKS AND SAMPLING FOR TICKETS EMAIL INFO@ONTRADESCOTLAND.CO.UK TABLES OF UP TO 10 £350 SPLIT TABLES OF UP TO 5 £200 WITH ALL PROCEEDS GOING TO THE BEN In case of any change in government restrictions which means the event is unable to take place tickets will be fully refunded

As the Hospitality Industry slowly starts to open up, there is still huge uncertainty around several key areas. With the current government regulations, the industry is having to limit their operations with some being unable to trade at all, which, as we have seen, can be devastating. The main course of the UK Government has been to keep the restrictions in place until the Vaccination programme takes full effect, reducing the rates of infections that ultimately reduces pressure on the NHS. Quite simply, it doesn’t have to be this way, there are solutions that exist, there are solutions that not only can get you open, but that can keep you open. The worrying thing is, the Government knows this, but refuses to embrace change. From an idea that was born out of a need to find solutions for dampness, mould and Indoor Air Quality, Gordon Bruce along with Scott McMillan created Insite Specialist Services, part of Insite Group, out of which the Biosecurity System Kill, Prevent, Protect was developed. The System continuously maintains clean air and protect all surfaces by removing up to 99.999% of pathogens and microbes including Viruses (coronaviruses), bacteria, allergens, mould and VOC’s, as well as reducing CO2 and PM2.5 particulate matter from the atmosphere.

With the ever-increasing demand for Hypoallergenic Rooms within the Hotel industry Room To Breathe was created in 2019 specifically designed for those suffering allergies or who are Immuno-compromised. In March 2020, it was confirmed that components of our Room To Breathe & Kill Prevent Protect Biosecurity Systems were approved by the CDC and EPA as being able to eradicate Covid-19. As the UK and the rest of the World went into Lockdown, our first step was to reach out to Jeane Freeman, Scottish Minister, to discuss how we could help protect people and businesses against this relentless infection. A meeting was scheduled but was subsequently cancelled due to lockdown restrictions; despite several attempts to reschedule, an alternative date was never forthcoming. By May, after approaching the NHS via another source, we began doing DEEPCLEANS in key Call Centres and also at the Louisiana Jordan at the Scottish Hydro. In August, we spoke to our local David Linden who then introduced us to Ivan McGhee, Innovation Minister, both of whom were ‘amazed’ by the system because they

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had ‘never seen anything like it’.

did not have to close the office.

In September we began working with Scottish Care, another sector that has been severely affected with the Pandemic. As a company we had a moral and ethical responsibility to help in any way we could to bring some hope and peace of mind to not just the Staff but the Residents and their families.

Our journey continues with us being involved in an Innovative Government Tender that is addressing the need for solutions that stop the spread of viruses and infections both on surfaces and indoor air.

Then, on the recommendation of Scottish Enterprise, we began a testing partnership with the University of the West of Scotland and have been working with Willie ‘Gordy’ MacKay, who is a Reader in Healthcare Acquired Infections. They chose the main office at the Student Accommodation for one testing area, which immediately had an impact with the staff noticing the difference especially on their general cognitive abilities. One surprise for Gordy was the decrease of Co2 which at one point reduced by 42%. The main observation though was when there was an anomaly with the testing in February; one area of the open planned office had returned to its original microbial load whereas the rest of the areas continued to perform as expected. This was a concern. On further investigation a member of staff had subsequently been working while having Covid and the University had called in a Cleaning Company to do a Deep Clean in that area; the contamination was a result of dirty cloths being used! What we did learn was that the person with Covid was at work for several days while being infected, however none of their colleagues were infected meaning that they

Sounds good, but how does it work? Utilising NASA developed technology, with elements approved by the CDC and EPA for eliminating Covid-19, Room To Breathe delivers the highest levels of cleanliness and provide continuous prohibitive protection against many dangerous pathogens including the ability to inhibit the spread of coronaviruses, not just in the air but also on surfaces. Our ground-breaking, multi-step systems purify the air and protect hard and soft surfaces using non-toxic and environmentally friendly processes. Room to Breathe is independently proven to be extremely effective at eliminating viruses, bacteria, allergens, moulds, yeasts, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and odours while reducing CO2 and particulate matter. Room to Breathe system can be designed to suit ANY indoor space and can easily be retrofitted or even installed on a temporary basis. It is extremely effective and has been independently tested by several academic partners incl. the University of the West of Scotland, Glasgow Caledonian and Strathclyde Universities. Room To Breathe provides Continuous Protection, 24/7….. there is no other system like it. As we said, you can open up, but let us keep you open.

WHAT’S IN A NAME? Following on from our previous articles, we continue the theme of checks and balances to protect your business. In these challenging times, every aspect of a licensed trade business is important. Sometimes a business name, logo and branding is overlooked. Operators often think it is complicated and expensive to register their brand, but that need not be the case. Names such as places or items often cannot be registered, but what can be protected is how that business expresses that. A unique logo and branding can be registered and that could be important.

INSOLVENCY AND RE-USE OF COMPANY NAMES In previous articles we have recommended that licensed trade businesses consider if the business

Craig Darling – Head of Business Restructuring And Recovery cdarling@gilsongray.co.uk 0141 530 2044

as a whole is viable or of there is anything can be done to protect the profitable parts of a business. This remains our advice, especially if a section of the business is struggling and threatens to drag down the parts which are doing well. Restructuring, business reorganisation and re-banking are all areas to take advice on. There can be solutions to issues that operators may not have considered. Insolvency can be a frightening word for an operator but there are ways to deal with problems without losing the whole business. If the insolvency route has to be taken, it is important to retain as much of the business as possible, including goodwill, customers and the name and brand. If a business is a limited company, once that company becomes insolvent and is in liquidation, the re-use of the company name is prohibited. This is to deter “phoenixing”: where the company which had the debt is ditched but

Steven Jansch Head of Insolvency sjansch@gilsongray.co.uk 0131 516 5361

Jo Millar Head of Licensing jmillar@gilsongray.co.uk 0141 370 8116

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the business carries on under a new entity without the debt. Directors of companies facing insolvent liquidation should take advice on the re-use of company names. Breaching the restrictions can result in both criminal charges and other issues. In other words directors risk jail time if they breach these provisions!

ARE THERE ANY EXCEPTIONS? There are some exceptions to the restrictions, such as where the business is sold to the new entity and certain steps are taken to place adverts in advance; where a company has already been known by the name being re-used for a specified period; or where Court permission is obtained. Planning the restructuring in advance is crucial and can save a lot of costs.

IS SOMETHING HIDING IN THE SHADOWS? The restriction on the re-use of a company’s name applies to individuals who are directors (or were directors in the 12 months prior to the liquidation). This also applies to shadow directors. If you are an operator and you run your business through a limited company, it is really important that you are not a shadow director without realising it. Company directors take on specific duties and responsibilities

when they are appointed. Directors’ details are registered at Companies House. If you are not officially a director, but provide advice and guidance to the company which is regularly acted upon, you could be viewed as a ‘shadow director.’ Just because you are not a director named at Companies House does not mean you have no responsibility. If you are found to be a shadow director you could be deemed responsible for the actions of the company and brought into any legal action in the same way as a director, particularly if the company becomes insolvent. If you are concerned about whether you could be seen as a shadow director or if you want advice on your company structure, please contact us.

SO WHAT NEXT…? At a time when many companies are struggling with debt incurred during the pandemic, but the underlying business has good prospects of succeeding, directors should take advice. It is best to take that advice early on. We can confirm what your options are for restructuring, reorganisation and re-banking and any consequences this may have. If you would like further information on the above, please contact Steven Jansch, Craig Darling or Jo Millar.

The right advice has never been more important. We’re honoured to have been chosen as the exclusive partner of OnTrade Magazine Scotland. As one of Scotland’s full-service law firms we’re able to offer specialist legal, property and financial services. We’re here to help in a time when support and clarity are needed most – offering valuable advice and insight on everything from licensing, business financing, employment and real estate. Different people. Different approach. Different results. To find out more please call Jo Millar on 0141 370 8116 or email jmillar@gilsongray.co.uk

EDINBURGH I GLASGOW I EAST LOTHIAN I DUNDEE

gilsongray.co.uk

Premier Sports becomes new title sponsor of the Scottish League Cup SPFL and Premier Sports also announce extended broadcast deal of the ‘Premier Sports Cup’ The Scottish Professional Football League (the “SPFL”) and broadcaster Premier Sports today (27/04) announced that the Scottish League Cup will henceforth be known as the ‘Premier Sports Cup’, in a deal spanning at least the next two seasons. The title sponsorship of the League Cup comes through additional investment from Premier Sports. Today’s announcement also confirms Premier Sports have extended the term of their broadcast contract by a further two years and will now be exclusive broadcaster of the Premier Sports Cup until at least the end of season 2026/27. Chief Executive of the SPFL Neil Doncaster said: “The first season’s coverage of the competition by Premier Sports has been a tremendous success, with St Johnstone FC lifting the cup for the first time in their history. “It’s a very welcome endorsement of our game, especially at such a challenging time, that Premier

Sports have agreed to extend the term of their broadcast contract. For many years, our Cup has been a vital and exciting competition and the involvement of Premier Sports has certainly enhanced its prestige and awareness. “I am also thrilled that Premier Sports are showing their further commitment and increased contribution to Scottish football by becoming the title sponsor of the Cup. The Premier Sports Cup offers a new and exciting promotional platform for both parties.” Premier Sports Director of Operations Richard Webb said: “We are delighted to be broadening our partnership with the SPFL and further investing in Scottish football with the extension of our current exclusive League Cup rights. We have developed a strong presence in Scotland with coverage of both Cup competitions so it feels like a natural step to strengthen our commitment to the game by also becoming the title sponsor of the League Cup. We look forward to bringing fans the biggest games and best moments from the ‘Premier Sports Cup’ for the next six years.”

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Crafted by Angels We take a look at a unique Scottish company providing outstanding glassware to the hospitality industry. Angels’ Share Glass was co-founded by Karen Somerville and Dad Tom Young MBE in April 2013 following a bizarre encounter whilst watching a Film called The Angels’ Share by Ken Loach. During this film dad and daughter decided that although the Angels’ Share was mentioned all the time in whisky making, there was nothing out there that represented it in the giftware sector. So a glass angel was born and filled and sealed with whisky representing the Angels’ Share. Designed in the first instance as a project to see if we could seal flammable whisky into a molten glass angel was a task in itself. We managed it and now 8 years later the Angels remains our signature product along with many other designs of giftware ad barware all made in our studios in Scotland. When covid first hit we like a lot of small businesses panicked and wondered how we would survive. Our main UK customers are Visitor Centres hospitality and attractions all of which were now closed. But we shifted focus and put all our resources into online sales and direct customer to customer. Everyone was at home unable to visit friends and family so online sales went through the roof for us and we were so lucky to have seen that coming. Our Christmas period was the busiest to date. Our raw materials come from Europe so Brexit has played it’s part in another horror story of increased pricing and import duties – but we are working around it all as so

many others are. We have though been working on amazing bespoke projects too during lockdown, Benriach Distillery and The Fife Arms to name a couple. We continue to increase our range and we have just added our own tartan to our portfolio, this cements our Scottishness and our desire to keep traditions especially in Scottish Glassware alive. We have even collaborated with glass artists to produce tartan glass in some of our products. We are also looking at lots of new markets for our glassware both at Home and Overseas. We already export massively to America and Canada, so there are a few more continents to conquer. Our New tartan will take us into textiles for the first time and pairing them with our glassware. Creating new products for dining and luxury gifting. We have contracts with Ragproper Glass Hipflasks based in The US we are their UK & EU distributor , these glass hipflasks are pretty cool and allow you to see your whisky in the flask, they also reduce any flavour contamination you sometimes get with metal hipflasks. We also have a UK distribution deal with Tuath Glass The official Irish Whiskey Glass, so we can supply Irish bars and restaurants with bespoke Irish Glassware. As a family business we continue to innovate and look at the bigger picture of Glass production in Scotland and the World.

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King of Cotton We speak to Hector Gauld owner of King Of Cotton as a top quality supplier of linen and bedding to the hospitality sector for a number of years to gain his & the companies insight into the market and how they are engaging with the customers and industry in Scotland . Tell us your

background in business & the company.

I brought this business to the UK in 1995, branching from an Italian business that has been in existence since 1880 based in Gallarate in the foothills of the Italian Alps. How has the last 12 months have been for the business in relation to supply chain, material and client requirement? Obviously the last year or so has been very challenging, but the increase of online sales to the general public has kept us going and helped us keep afloat until the 50% of our sales, which are to the Hospitality industry, return and things thankfully get back to normal again. What sets King of cotton apart from the competition?

At King of Cotton, our strategy is direct and unwavering. We offer the best products that we can find from around the world, listening to customer feedback which, in turn, drives our purchasing. We offer our Customers the highest level of Customer Service, coupled with a fair price ,for the highest quality goods sourced from highly vetted and sustainable Suppliers. Tell us about the relationships you have with clients in Scotland and the market in Scotland as a whole. Scotland has been a particular favourite of mine, and that is not only because my Father was from Glasgow. It is also the friendliness and relaxed approach to business that can be found here. We have exhibited at every ScotHot show in Glasgow

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since 2007, and can honestly say that is a highlight on our Calendar, We always have evenings out, enjoying the best that Scotland has to offer with our customers and our staff, whenever we are back in that great city. What are the brands plans are moving forward and where you see any changes in requirement across the industry? We have now established our Company in Portugal, where so many of our products are actually made, and we have a large distribution and logistics warehouse, that caters directly for all of our customers in the EU, which helps us get around

all the negative obstructions caused by the implementation of Brexit. Our aim is to expand, not only in Scotland and the rest of the UK, but also the vast opportunities to be found inside the EU. Do you have a message for your clients and potential clients in Scotland? We welcome all clients, from a private customer looking for a bathrobe, to small guesthouses, Hunting lodges and finest Hotels that include the Gleneagles Hotel, and many others. We welcome all enquiries however large or small, and can assure all of our valued customers of our utmost attention at all times.

Pasta Made Simple for Perfect Al Fresco Dining Valentine Equipment and Cuisinequip are delighted to offer the perfect pasta combination, providing a varied fresh pasta menu that’s easy to prepare and great for al fresco dining. With a range of Bottene pasta makers capable of producing from 3 to 50 kgs of fresh pasta per hour, Cuisinequip can offer the perfect pasta maker for any sized commercial kitchen. The extensive die choice will enable chefs to create a unique and varied menu, helping them to stand out from the crowd! Bottene’s practical and easy to use pasta makers allow the chef to select their own ingredients to make high-quality fresh pasta, and the option of a variable speed cutter system, along with easily interchangeable dies, means that one simple recipe can offer a variety of menu options. Pair your Bottene pasta maker with a Valentine pasta cooker, complete with portion control baskets and automatic basket-lift, and you’ll be ready to manage a busy service, even with reduced kitchen staff to keep your kitchen Covid-safe. The Valentine’s simple controls make pasta cooking easy, whilst portion control baskets allow the chef to cook up to 6 different types of pasta at any time. The added automatic basket-lift feature will provide perfectly cooked pasta every time, allowing the chef to focus on other prep without the worry of overcooking. This perfect kitchen combination will provide a simple but varied menu that can be prepared and cooked with minimal staff interaction, because reduced staff doesn’t have to mean a reduced menu! 26 ontradescotland.co.uk

SMALL BATCH SCOTTISH VODKA

BY THE SPEYSIDE VODKA CO

WWW.SNAWSTORMSPIRITS.COM

Turning a hotel room into a master bedroom. We’ve always had an extensive range of high quality bedlinen for the Hotel trade. The Hotel Superior Egyptian 400 thread sateen bedlinen is widely used by five-star hotels due to its easy-care finish. It’s also ideal for heavy and frequent laundering. Other popular linen includes the Hotel Classic Egyptian 300 thread sateen and the Easy Care Luxury 300 thread Polycotton sateen bedlinen.

Serving Scotland for 25 Years EST

We have an exceptional range of Duvets and Pillows

1880

KING OF COTTON which include Down Feel Microfibre/Cotton Percale, The world’s finest linen and towelling and Natural Goose Feather and Down.

www.kingofcotton.com

King of Cotton are offering Scottish customers a huge 25% discount on all Duvets, Pillows and Bedding Protectors. In celebration of the relaunch of Hospitality in Scotland. Visit our website, when you get to checkout with your purchase,*use the reader offer code:

SCOTLAND and you will receive a 25% discount. L O N D O N

P A R I S

B R U S S E L S

N I C E

M A R B E L L A

www.bdpcontractfurniture.co.uk INDOOR - OUTDOOR

Suppliers of Bespoke Banquette and booth seating Manufactured in our Glasgow workshop to a very high standard Suppliers of quality contract indoor and outdoor furniture Recovery and polishing service

37 Hepburn Road, Hillington Park, Glasgow G52 4RT Tel. 0141 883 0400 / www.bdpcontractfurniture.co.uk

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DO YOU WORK IN THE DRINKS OR HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY IN SCOTLAND?

WE CAN HELP! ARE YOU IN NEED OF FINANCIAL SUPPORT?

The Ben is here as a safety net for anyone who works in our trade and is facing extreme financial hardship. We may be in a position to offer one-off financial assistance on a case by case basis. If this applies to you or any colleagues please contact

chris@bensoc.org.uk 0141 353 3596 79 West Regent Street Glasgow, G2 2AW

Benevolent Society of the Licensed Trade Scotland is a Scottish Charity SC 005604. Scottish Charity Regulator

COMI NG THI SJUL Y

PROUD SPONSORSOF THESCOTTI SH LEAGUECUP