Agilico Wins the Print IT Award for Environmental Excellence

Agilico are delighted to announce that they have won the 2024 Environmental Excellence Award at the Print IT Awards in December, the UK’s premier awards event for the managed print and document technology sector. This annual celebration recognises outstanding achievements and innovation, bringing together the industry’s top players for an unforgettable night.

In the highly competitive Environmental Excellence category, Agilico beat global heavyweights such as HP, Ricoh, and Epson to claim the title with their innovative Agilico Zero circular first multifunctional print devices.

As the UK’s largest independent managed print provider Agilico is proud to lead the way in sustainability within their industry, with a commitment to both high performance and environmental responsibility.

Their Agilico Zero MFDs are the cornerstone of a modern sustainable print environment – lightly used, quality refurbished technology, offering a cost-effective, eco-friendly solution that performs like new.

In 2024 Agilico saved nearly 1,500 tonnes of CO₂ emissions with their refurbished Agilico Zero devices and as more customers across the UK choose them, they’re excited to see its positive impact grow each month.

Contact Agilico here to get set for greener printing and find out everything you need to know about their award winning Agilico Zero refurbished devices.

LAC is looking to recruit new board members to help steer the organisation into their next phase of activity.

Going into 2025, the LAC board and team are excited to develop and deliver a refreshed cultural programme with the Caithness community. Staying true to their core values of Cooperation, Inclusivity, Transparency, Pragmatism and Innovation, LAC are keen to welcome new Trustees to collaborate with them over the next few years.

LAC are particularly interested in hearing from individuals with a strong commitment to the cultural sector and rural communities. They are seeking to appoint people with skills/experience that would include one or more of:

• Practicing Artists – professional artists working across Scotland in any art form or medium
• Buildings and Capital Projects – architect, engineer, builder or someone with experience in planning or developing capital projects
• Climate Action – a researcher, consultant, academic, activist or other worker with understanding of adaptation, sustainability and regenerative practices
• Human Resources – with a comprehensive understanding of Human Resource management, preferably in a not-for-profit environment
• Education – Somebody with experience in Primary, Secondary, Further or Higher education
• Local Folk – a dedicated and active member of the Caithness community

LAC is committed to diversity and inclusion and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds, particularly applications from individuals who have been historically underserved by boards due to age, disability, gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, faith or belief, or socio-economic background.

Please see the full Board Recruitment Pack here

To apply
Please send a cover letter and CV to info@lytharts.org.uk by 11.59pm on Monday 24th February 2025.  If you have any questions, please email info@lytharts.org.uk

A small, Inverclyde printing company which has carved a niche for itself with specialist work has strengthened its executive team with the appointment of a prominent Scottish business figure as a non-executive director.

Port Glasgow-based Love & Humphries, which bills itself as The Clever Printing Company, has secured the services of Malcolm Morrison, a business strategist and transformation specialist with a proven track record in scaling up organisations.

It is the latest in a number of non-executive roles assumed by Mr Morrison, a former Clydesdale Bank partner and Santander relationship director, who is also Director of Highland-based GMG Energy, a timber and biomass producer which has become one of the most environmentally-aware enterprises in the region.

He will make a creative contribution to the company by providing independent oversight as well as offering guidance on a wide array of business issues, especially those which relate to small and medium enterprises.

Philip Wilson, Director of Love & Humphries, who oversees a small team at the company, said: “Everyone in the firm is delighted that we have been able to attract a business personality of Malcolm Morrison’s calibre for the important non-exec role.

“He has a huge range of experience in a wide variety of different sectors and has made valuable contributions to other enterprises across Scotland. I am sure that he will be instrumental in helping us to focus on our business goals.

“The print industry in Scotland has always been a challenging environment, especially at a time when technology is changing so fast and altering the way we operate. We are very pleased to have Malcolm on board to assist us with these challenges and opportunities.”

Malcolm Morrison said: “Love & Humphries may be a small business at the moment, but I am sure that there is terrific potential within Philip and his team, as they have proven by opening up new avenues for business expansion, including exports.

“I will be delighted to offer my experience to assist growth in the company in any way I can and I look forward very much to working with them.”

Love & Humphries has recently secured a significant order from a US customer for SuperTuffMenus®, a type of wipeable, washable menu card used by major brands to enhance presentation.

It has printed poetry books for clients and has also made great strides with uncoated paper, using UV curing inks to speed up drying times and avoid production hold-ups.

“The four Highland Chambers of Commerce – Cairngorm Business Partnership, Caithness Chamber, Inverness Chamber and Lochaber Chamber of Commerce – share the deep concerns expressed by the Scottish Tourism Alliance (STA) regarding the introduction of a visitor levy scheme in the Highlands.

Collectively we believe that implementing a visitor levy at this time would have significant negative consequences for tourism in the Highlands, which is already facing numerous challenges. These include:

1. Economic Impact: The current economic climate is fragile. A visitor levy would further increase the cost of tourism, potentially deterring visitors and harming businesses that rely on tourism for their livelihoods.
2. Administrative Burden: The proposed percentage-based charging model is complex and costly to administer for businesses. A simpler, fixed-fee model would be more manageable and equitable.
3. Funding Uncertainty: There is a lack of clarity on how the revenue generated from the levy will be used. We urge that funds be specifically and transparently allocated to enhancing the visitor experience and supporting sustainable tourism development in the Highlands.
4. Competitive Disadvantage: The Highlands already face challenges in attracting visitors due to factors like travel costs and remoteness. A visitor levy would further increase the cost of visiting the region, making us less competitive compared to other destinations.
5. Inadequate Consultation: Many businesses and residents in the Highlands remain unaware of the implications of the visitor levy (for example that Highland residents will pay the levy if staying in accommodation for business or a hospital appointment) and have not been adequately consulted on its potential impact.
6. Operating Costs: With the UK’s VAT rate among the highest in Europe, applying VAT to this levy effectively creates a double tax, driving up prices for consumers. For numerous small businesses, this added burden could push them over the VAT threshold, forcing them to take on unsustainable financial and administrative pressures. This scenario risks leading to business closures or shorter operating seasons, further weakening the sector’s stability

We urge the Scottish Government and The Highland Council to:

1. Pause and Review: Take time to carefully consider the potential impacts of a visitor levy on the Highland economy and tourism sector.
2. Re-evaluate the Charging Model: Explore a simpler, fixed-fee model that is more manageable for businesses and less burdensome for visitors.
3. Ensure Transparent Funding: Guarantee that the revenue generated from the levy will be used to directly benefit the Highland tourism industry and support sustainable tourism development equally across the region.
4. The Highland Council needs to confirm how many staff it will need to employ to administer the scheme and how much the employer costs will be including full salary, on-costs, office costs, IT costs etc. Furthermore, the council needs to appoint an industry led forum to lead on decision making for the levy.
5. Conduct Thorough Consultation: Engage in meaningful balanced consultation with businesses and communities across the Highlands to understand their concerns and ensure their voices are heard.

The Highland tourism industry is vital to the region’s economy and provides significant employment opportunities. We understand that change is needed for the tourism industry and are very happy to explore all options with relevant stakeholders. We believe that a well-considered and carefully implemented approach to tourism development is crucial for the long-term success of the Highlands. Therefore, we urge caution and a thorough review of the proposed visitor levy before any decisions are made. Collectively, as the largest tourism business member organisation in the Highlands, we would urge Highland Council to open meaningful dialogue before proceeding.”

Issued on behalf of the Highland Chambers of Commerce by:

• Trudy Morris, CEO, Caithness Chamber of Commerce
• Craig Mills, CEO, Cairngorm Business Partnership
• Colin Marr, CEO, Inverness Chamber of Commerce
• Frazer Coupland, CEO, Lochaber Chamber of Commerce

Highland BlindCraft is celebrating a remarkable year, having received two prestigious awards and announcing an exciting new partnership. At the Highland Business Awards 2024, the organisation was honoured with Employer of the Year, recognising its dedication to providing an inclusive and supportive workplace. Additionally, Highland BlindCraft secured the Loganair Award for Excellence in Customer Service at the Prosper/Highlands and Islands Business Excellence Awards, reflecting its commitment to exceptional service and quality craftsmanship.

These achievements reflects the hard work and perseverance of the team, many of whom have overcome personal challenges to excel in their roles. Highland BlindCraft continues to provide employment, training, and education for individuals with disabilities, crafting premium beds and mattresses for homes, hotels, and businesses across Scotland.

Further marking its growth, Highland BlindCraft has partnered with Highland Coast Hotels to produce bespoke beds and mattresses for their stunning properties throughout the Highlands. This collaboration expands the organisation’s reach into the hospitality sector, ensuring guests enjoy unparalleled comfort. Read more here.

In addition, Highland BlindCraft remains committed to contributing to the local community and supporting causes that matter. They recently joined the Highland Community Lottery, where ticket sales support its mission and offer participants the chance to win exciting prizes. To support Highland BlindCraft and join the lottery, click here.

With the continued support of staff, partners, and customers, Highland BlindCraft looks forward to creating new opportunities and crafting comfort with purpose.

Trudy Morris, CEO, Caithness Chamber of Commerce: Find the Perfect Fit for your Firm.

As the year draws to a close, with Christmas fast approaching and the holidays in sight, it’s incredible to see the 2025 calendar already filling up fast. We’re delighted to kick off the new year with Caithness Jobs and How to Get Them—the county’s premier jobs, training, and recruitment event. Mark your calendars for Saturday, 8th February 2025, when this exciting event returns to UHI ETEC, Thurso.

People truly are a business’s greatest asset, and attracting top talent is crucial to building a resilient and dynamic workforce. This event provides a fantastic platform for employers to connect with potential candidates and highlight the breadth of opportunities available in our region. It also offers attendees valuable insights into the skills and qualifications businesses need now and in the future. Open to all, the event is ideal for school leavers, career changers, those returning to work, or anyone seeking inspiration to find their dream job.

As the hosts of DYW North Highland, Caithness Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to helping young people realise their full potential. The saying “You can’t be what you can’t see” highlights the importance of role models in expanding horizons and inspiring the next generation. Caithness Jobs and How to Get Them is the perfect platform for this, helping young people and job seekers connect with the opportunities that shape their futures.

Our region is on the brink of transformative opportunities, and we are entering an exciting new era of employment generation. Expanding the local pool of skilled workers remains a top priority for the Chamber and our partners at Focus North. One way we’re driving this forward is through the Caithness Business Fund apprenticeship grant scheme and the FutureSkills initiative – which launched in February with thanks to significant support from NRS Dounreay, the NDA, and the West of Orkney Windfarm. Since January 2024, the Fund has helped 11 local businesses create 12 new apprenticeship opportunities—an outstanding achievement that highlights the commitment of local employers to invest in their people and the region’s future.

Apprenticeships play a vital role in creating opportunities for individuals from diverse backgrounds, equipping them with lifelong skills and supporting their career growth. Every apprenticeship opportunity available in the North Highlands represents a tangible and meaningful pathway for a young person to live, learn, and work in our region and stay part of their own community.

If your business is considering hiring an apprentice or looking to grow and invest in your workforce, the Chamber is here to help. Reach out to our team to explore how we can support your goals.
We wish all our members and the wider business community a blessed Christmas and look forward to welcoming everyone to Caithness Jobs and How to Get Them in the new year!

Business Insight, Ryan Pollard, Managing Director, RDI Renewables

From utilising sustainable business practices to providing local employment opportunities, RDI Renewables is spearheading the growth of the green energy sector in North Scotland.

At RDI Renewables, we genuinely believe that innovation and teamwork are essential for creating a better future for generations to come. The UK must meet European targets to reduce our carbon footprint, and as a country, we have an international obligation to lead the way. Sustainable energy solutions and renewable technologies, such as heat pumps, play a significant role in this transition, but it requires skilled workers to bring these solutions to life.

Our business began ten years ago in Thurso with just a couple of vans and a small team. However, as the industry expanded and our business grew, we faced challenges in recruiting enough staff.

To address this issue, we decided to invest in apprentices who work alongside our more experienced employees. Our first apprentice, Ryan Simpson, has been with me for ten years and has become the strongest member of my team. We now employ 13 people, with each department comprising both seasoned professionals and capable trainees at various stages of their apprenticeships.

When we take on a young person—often fresh out of school—we train and mentor them, investing four years into their development. Ultimately, this results in a highly skilled tradesperson. Our hope is that by investing in youth and attracting established tradespeople, we will not only nurture local talent but also strengthen the community and pave the way for a brighter, greener future for the North of Scotland.

Our newest apprentice, 17-year-old Alex, is in his first year at UHI and started his apprenticeship in February. He alternates between classroom instruction and practical experience. This opportunity has allowed Alex to begin a career in the renewable energy sector and secure a meaningful, well-paying job in a community he loves.

We are incredibly grateful to the Caithness Business Fund for supporting our new apprentices through the FutureSkills initiative. This Fund provides business support and financial assistance, helping to improve access to apprenticeships for small and medium enterprises, ensuring that businesses of all sizes are equipped with the necessary skills for now and the future.

Supporting an apprenticeship represents a sustained investment in the future of our region. We have built a fantastic team at RDI Renewables, and we take enormous pride in offering these opportunities in our local area.

Caithness filmmaker John Baikie has been selected to participate in Screen Scotland’s prestigious short film scheme, Little Pictures, a programme run by GMAC Film in Glasgow. John’s documentary proposal was one of only eight selected from hundreds of entries, marking a significant achievement in his filmmaking career.

The Screen Scotland funded short film scheme aims to support emerging talent in the Scottish film industry by providing filmmakers with the opportunity to develop and produce original short films. John’s selection places him amongst some of Scotland’s up and coming creative voices, and offers him the resources and mentorship needed to bring his vision to life over the coming months.

“I’m excited and honoured to be selected for this incredible opportunity,” said John. “Being chosen from such a competitive pool of submissions was a surprise, especially coming from such a remote area. I’m excited to work with the talented team at GMAC Film to develop my project. It’s at the early stages, but it’s already been a huge learning experience.”

John’s short documentary, “On The Surface” will explore the journey of a disabled girl who has used surfing as a way to rediscover life and inspire others as she trains towards a long term goal of the Paralympics in LA.

The scheme is part of a larger effort by Screen Scotland to nurture and develop local talent and encourage a thriving film industry in Scotland. GMAC Film, based in Glasgow, has been instrumental in helping filmmakers from across Scotland get their start in the industry.

John feels his selection for this short film scheme is a significant milestone in his filmmaking journey and a big opportunity to have his work recognised by a wider audience.

John runs a video production and photography business in Caithness, serving businesses with high quality commercial imagery. Well known throughout the country for his photography work, he has developed the video element of the business in recent years, combining his documentary passion with his commercial work.

johnbaikie.co.uk

Are you looking for opportunities to upskill your staff and make your business more effective? Or perhaps you’re considering gaining professional qualifications for yourself or embarking on a new career?

Why not join UHI North, West and Hebrides this January, where there are numerous learning opportunities tailored to suit your needs.

More Possibilities

UHI North, West and Hebrides offer flexible and inclusive learning opportunities at all levels, including part-time and online courses that fit around your work schedule. Many of their courses are accessible across ALL of their rural and island communities, and beyond. With 15 years of experience in online learning and on-campus face-to-face delivery, UHI North, West and Hebrides ensure a high-quality educational experience for all students.

More Choice

Their wide range of learning opportunities cater to diverse needs and levels, ensuring that you can find the right course for your professional or personal development. Whether you’re advancing in your career or exploring something new, their flexible programmes fit around your other commitments in life and work.

More Support

Their friendly, professional teams are committed to providing a personalised and supportive experience for every student. No matter where you choose to study—from home, your workplace, or in-person—you’ll feel like part of a close-knit college and university community.

Looking to Upskill, Reskill, or Change Careers?

A variety of part-time courses are available, designed to help you progress in your current job or transition to a new career. From Bookkeeping to Energy Modelling for Business, you’d be surprised at the diverse options available locally. Browse Part-Time Courses

Want to study something new for enjoyment?

It’s never too late to learn something new! Their range of short courses includes exciting options like learning Gaelic or getting “Gig Ready.” Explore Short Courses

Interested in Postgraduate Study?

As an academic partner of the University of the Highlands and Islands, UHI North, West and Hebrides offer a variety of postgraduate study options. Many of these programmes are available to study online, whether on a full-time or part-time basis, making it easier for you to fit postgraduate studies into your life and work. Learn More About Postgraduate Opportunities

UHI North, West and Hebrides also offers bespoke training programmes for your business through their Enterprise team business.nwh@uhi.ac.uk.

Take a look at all the options available this January and discover how UHI North, West and Hebrides can help you achieve your personal and professional goals.

Explore Courses and Programmes available here

To celebrate the completion of the Caithness and Welsh slate roofs at Castletown Mill on 11th December 2024, Dunnet Bay Distillers Ltd will be holding a ‘Topping Out’ ceremony. ‘Topping Out’ is a rite traditionally held when the roof of a building is completed. Because Castletown Mill is one of the largest and most imposing 19th century grain mills in the North Highlands of Scotland, Historic Environment Scotland funded the reinstatement of the Caithness slate roof and conservation of the stonework on the circa 1818 wing of the building.

The Grade B listed, north-south wing of Castletown Mill with its iconic Caithness slate roof was originally built as a water-powered grain mill circa 1818 by James Traill (1758–1843) pioneer of the Caithness flagstone industry and Agricultural Improver as a starter enterprise for his heir George Traill (1788–1871). The mill ground grain grown on James Traill’s Castlehill Estate into flour to cater for the growing number of workers employed at his nearby Castlehill Pavement Works. In the late 19th century Castletown Mill was extended, with the addition to the south of a large 3-storey range which had a Welsh slate roof.

In 1991 Castletown Mill was added to the Buildings at Risk Register for Scotland maintained by Historic Environment Scotland where it was classified as ‘derelict’. However, in November 2020, Dunnet Bay Distillers Ltd purchased Castletown Mill and are giving it a new lease of life through a £4 million project to conserve and revitalise this important Grade B listed building. Due to open to the public in Summer 2025 Castletown Mill will be a state-of-the-art craft whisky distillery and world class visitor experience. Dunnet Bay Distillers Ltd was established in 2014 and is owned and operated by Caithness born and bred husband-and-wife team Claire and Martin Murray. It is exceedingly rare that a new distillery opens which is owned and operated locally by a family firm rather than by a big corporation. Dr Susan O’Connor, Head of Grants at Historic Environment Scotland, said, “We are delighted to have supported conservation of this nationally important water-powered grain mill through our Historic Environment Repair Grants Programme. By repairing and reusing Castletown Mill’s historic structure, including use of distinctive Caithness slate, we not only celebrate its industrial past but also safeguard its future for generations to come”.

Martin Murray co-owner and founder of Dunnet Bay Distillers Ltd said that “Castletown Mill, an iconic vernacular building is very much anchored into the landscape of the Dunnet Bay area with its thick Caithness stone walls, and Caithness and Welsh slate roofs. We are grateful to Historic Environment Scotland for awarding us grant funding that has enabled us to preserve the rich history and unique character of Castletown Mill and revitalise it to become the home of Stannergill Whisky”. Producing whisky is an energy intensive process and Castletown Mill will be using a 100% renewable electricity supply complemented with on-site solar electricity generation, battery storage, and an air source heat pump for all the distillery’s heating requirements. Claire Murray co-owner and founder of Dunnet Bay Distillers Ltd stated that “Based on visitors to our gin, vodka, and rum distillery we anticipate that Stannergill Whisky at Castletown Mill will attract circa 25,000 visitors in its first year of operation and will create twelve new full-time equivalent jobs in addition to the people we already employ at Dunnet Bay Distillery”.

The practice of ‘Topping Out’ comes from an ancient Scandinavian religious rite of placing a tree atop a new building to appease the tree-dwelling spirits displaced in its construction. This is a fitting tradition as Castletown Mill is going to be the brand home of Stannergill Whisky. The water to power the large water wheel which was once located on the east gable of Castletown Mill came from the nearby Stannergill Burn. The name Stannergill comprises the Old Norse words: steinn garðr gil – which translates into English as a stone-enclosed gorge (or ravine). The natural Caithness environment, that was once settled by newcomers from Scandinavia, with its fresh sea-air from Dunnet Bay which surrounds Castletown Mill, and the pure Highland water Dunnet Bay Distillers will use to make its whisky will help to create a uniquely smooth and mellow spirit. Stannergill Whisky will use barley grown in the fields surrounding Castletown Mill whilst pot ale and spent lees left over from the distillation process will fertilise the barley used to make more Stannergill Whisky. The flavour of Stannergill Whisky will honour the Caithness whiskies of the past but also present opportunities for new flavours, and new Caithness whisky making traditions.