The Scottish Chambers of Commerce has warned that businesses are on the brink following the Chancellor’s Autumn Budget.
As Scotland’s largest business organisation, representing thousands of businesses across every region and sector, Scottish Chambers of Commerce is deeply concerned about the impact of the Government’s tax plans on businesses, particularly SMEs.
Dr Liz Cameron CBE, Chief Executive of SCC, said:
“After months of speculation and leaks, the Chancellor has simply delivered a trade-off budget which hikes taxes to increase government spending.
“While our members will welcome some of the encouraging announcements on regional investment and support for entrepreneurship, it is a far cry from the radically pro-business reset that firms across Scotland so desperately need. Chancellor has not done enough to restore the confidence of business.
“SCC called on the Exchequer to take serious, pro-growth measures, like targeted reductions in VAT, a reversal of last year’s ill-thought-out Employer NICs increase, and reform of the Energy Profits Levy to support the UK’s energy transition. It is disappointing and damaging that these opportunities for Scotland have fallen on deaf ears.
“But, the net effect of this Budget will be to dial up the pressure on businesses even further, in turn risking the UK’s reputation as a magnet for global investment.
“If the Government wants to make good on its stated commitment to sustainable economic growth, then it must listen more carefully to the businesses and people footing the bill.”
On the minimum wage, Dr Cameron said:
“Raising the National Living Wage by 4.1% may help stimulate demand in the short term, as some consumers feel a boost in their back pockets; but in the absence of targeted relief for already-squeezed SMEs, it will simply add to the rising cumulative cost of doing business. Without cost reductions elsewhere, businesses will suffer under the weight of additional cost pressures.”
On the Energy Profits Levy (EPL), Dr Cameron said:
“The Government’s intention to replace the EPL with a permanent windfall tax mechanism is deeply concerning for the oil and gas sector which contributes so much to UK economic growth and to the strength of Scotland’s supply chains. We join OEUK in expressing our disappointment, and the threat it poses to thousands of jobs in the North East region.
“Keeping the tax in place is both punitive and wrong-headed.
“Research from OEUK shows that reforming the EPL immediately could raise up to £15bn additional revenue by 2030. While we await full details of how this windfall tax will work, we stand with our vital North Sea oil and gas sector, and will continue to work to strengthen its role in delivering our national energy transition.”
On alcohol duty, Dr Cameron said:
“It is a missed opportunity that the Government has chosen to ignore industry-wide calls to reduce or freeze alcohol duty. This is a punishing tax on Scotland’s world-renowned whisky industry, worth £7 billion in Gross Value Added to the economy.
“Scotch is already the highest-taxed alcohol category in the UK, and these costs push investment to other, more profitable markets.
“A government serious about growth would be playing to the UK’s strengths and leveraging the commercial success of its flagship exports, not stifling them. We will work with industry and trade partners in any effort to reverse this rise, so that Scotch whisky can thrive on the global marketplace once again.”
On funding for SME apprenticeships, Dr Cameron said:
“Scrapping the co-investment in apprenticeships and training for under-25s for all SMEs, backed by over £700m of funding will help tackle youth unemployment, reduce the burden on small businesses, and boost vital training in high-growth sectors.
“We need similar action from the Scottish Government to attract talent and investment.”
On investment in Scotland, Dr Cameron said:
“The Government’s investments in Kirkcaldy, Grangemouth and Inchgreen are positive steps, which leverage Scotland’s diverse regions to support economic growth and deliver the UK Government’s industrial strategy. To make the most of these spending commitments, business needs devolved housing and transport policy that works in lockstep with the Treasury.”
On international trade, Dr Cameron said:
“We welcome the Government’s intention to bolster the relationship with our European neighbours, leveraging overseas talent to support our economy in high-growth areas. Reforming customs treatment for low-value imports will reduce the administrative costs for SMEs trading in international markets. While we welcome this consultation as a step in the right direction, we need progress to happen at pace.”
On the electric vehicle tax, Dr Cameron said:
“The Government’s policy on EVs has been confusing, conflicted and contradictory, hurting both motorists and manufacturers in the process. The Government has signalled a desire to phase out fossil fuels – why then is it extending the cut in fuel duty, all while ramping up taxes on EVs? Businesses can support the transition away from diesel and petrol cars, but only if we have consistency and clarity.”
The Scottish Chambers of Commerce (SCC), representing thousands of businesses across every sector of Scotland’s economy, has warned that the Autumn Budget must be a turning point for growth, competitiveness, and confidence across the UK.
In a letter to the Chancellor, SCC says that firms are facing a perfect storm of rising costs, squeezed cashflow, and policy uncertainty. Its latest economic survey shows business confidence declining across most sectors, investment intentions put on hold, and hiring costs at record highs.
Dr Liz Cameron CBE, Director and Chief Executive of SCC, said:
“Firms across Scotland are ready to invest and grow, but a complex and costly policy environment is holding them back. We hear all too often that firms want to invest in their premises and people, but that the spiralling cost burden has seen investment intentions shelved. This Chancellor needs to make this Budget a turning point for businesses.
“The measures we’ve outlined will unlock investment, drive innovation, and create jobs in every region of the UK. Bold, evidence-led decisions today will secure growth and prosperity for decades to come.”
SCC is calling for a package of measures that strengthen the UK’s global competitiveness and support long-term productivity:
Concluding, Dr Cameron said:
“The message from Scotland’s business community is clear: we’re ready to invest, innovate, and create jobs. Now we need a Budget that matches our ambition, and takes the necessary steps to restore business confidence.
“With the Scottish Budget due in January, we urge both Governments to work together to deliver a settlement that unlocks the full potential of Scotland’s businesses.”
This weekend, on 22nd November, a dedicated group of Parents and Carers will take on the Twin Peaks Challenge to raise vital funds for Venturing Out CIC’s Adventure Wellbeing Programmes.
The challenge will see participants first climb Traprain Law near East Linton before taking on a 17km trek to North Berwick, finishing with a final ascent of North Berwick Law. It’s an inspiring and demanding route — and an incredible show of commitment from those taking part.
All of the individuals involved are unpaid Carers who either attend the sessions with their children who have additional support needs or take part in Venturing Out’s Carers Programme, which provides essential respite and time to focus on mental health and wellbeing.
The group has set an ambitious fundraising target of £5,000, with all proceeds going towards helping the organisation continue offering free, accessible outdoor adventure activities for people with a wide range of needs. As funding becomes increasingly challenging to secure, support from the local community is more important than ever.
Please support this amazing effort and donate here:
https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/venturing-out-cic-adventure-wellbeing-programmes
Reflecting on our first year with 1% for the Planet
Scotland’s leading business organisation has hailed Ukraine’s “entrepreneurial spirit and resilience” following a major conference to help the war-torn nation rebuild.
From 13–14 November, the Scottish Chambers of Commerce led a business delegation, as part of Team Scotland, to Warsaw for the ReBuild Ukraine: Construction and Energy Conference, joined by Public Finance Minister Ivan McKee.
Team Scotland’s presence reinforced growing ties of cooperation between Scottish and Ukrainian businesses, supporting the reconstruction of a nation devastated by the Russian invasion: a project the World Bank estimates will cost $524 billion over the next decade.
Dr Liz Cameron CBE, Chief Executive of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce, said:
“Scotland’s business community stands firmly with Ukraine, and this conference served as a powerful demonstration of that commitment in action. From energy and infrastructure to professional services and manufacturing, Scottish firms of all sizes came together in Warsaw to channel the entrepreneurial spirit into Ukraine’s recovery.
“The delegation was struck by the entrepreneurial spirit and resilience of Ukraine’s business leaders. Despite unimaginable challenges, they continue to drive forward plans for reconstruction. Scotland is proud to stand alongside Ukraine as partners in their journey to rebuild both their infrastructure and a thriving economy.
“The Memorandum of Understanding between the Scottish Government and Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, signed in May 2025, is the foundation for long-term investment and economic renewal. This trade mission marked the beginning of a deeper partnership, and Scottish businesses are ready to play their part in unlocking investment, supporting reconstruction, and strengthening the bonds of friendship and cooperation.”
Public Finance Minister Ivan McKee said:
“Scotland is unwavering in our solidarity for Ukraine. Scottish companies are already building links with Ukraine and it was good to hear about how their expertise can be utilised to support the country as it builds back from the devastation of war. We hope this trade mission will just be the start in further collaboration between Scottish, Polish and Ukrainian businesses as part of our contribution to the wider UK-Ukraine 100 year-partnership.”
Jamie Kirk, Sales Director at Linian Supply Co., said:
“Witnessing businesses from across Europe unite behind Ukraine’s reconstruction was truly remarkable. As part of Team Scotland, we were proud to bring our expertise in cable management to the table, helping design a future that is stronger, more resilient, and rooted in hope. We are committed to standing with Ukraine for as long as it takes.”
There’s more to being a Chamber Member than getting a new contract, though that is the Holy Grail that we all ultimately seek. It’s the hidden benefits that go unnoticed in between the Coffee Connections, webinars and in person breakfasts and lunches, that give added value to being in this small community of business folk.
Like many of you, I’ve had my share of out of Chamber times coffee and chats with fellow members, both with and without cake (though cake is my go-to if I’m being really honest). I’ve set up weekly check-ins whilst some of us work on our marketing plan, giving each other support and that sense of accountability as we check that we’ve done what we set out to achieve. I’ve even brought my kids along to possible employers of the future, showing them how their passion in photography, video and PCs could look like in the world of work. A big thank you to Bren and Amy Reilly at Dangerous Studios, and Phil Bowen at Pigeon Penguin/ Midlothian View for our private behind the scenes over the summer.
But for me as a parent of an S5 child, it’s the time of year where we are expected to encourage our young one out of the classroom into the world of work. It was during our summer visits that Phil kindly offered my son a school placement for November. A bigger bonus for my son was that he’d met Phil’s full team of young people, had been to their office, and already knew what type of web and app development work they did; making the prospect less daunting.
My son had an amazing experience last week, learning code that he’d heard of but never tried at school. Phil’s team were friendly, supportive, and very encouraging. If anyone has a teenager in the house, you’ll know that at 15 you get some good and bad days, and conversation can sometimes be scares. Isacc didn’t stop talking from the moment we got in the car, both there and back. That speaks volumes.
But not all the benefits were ours. Phil took a supportive leadership approach, having one of his apprentices to mentor my son over the week. They were only a few years older than him, so their connection was made even easier. Rebecca stepped up to the challenge of explaining and teaching him complex PHP code, word press plug-ins, and CSS for a live local project. She told me that it was fun having to figure out how to explain something that you’d normally do without thinking about. This mentoring opportunity was a great way for her to realise what she did know, and to share her enthusiasm around web and app development with someone new. I’d hazard a guess that she enjoyed it and got as much out of the experience as my son did.
A big thank you to Phil and his team: Rebecca, Callum and Liam, for taking good care of my boy.
It’s good to remember that being a member of the Chamber isn’t just about what we sign up for, it’s the hidden benefits of what can happen as a result of showing up.
The Midlothian & East Lothian Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the launch of the 2026 Chamber Business Awards, celebrating the innovation, resilience, and excellence of businesses across the region.
The annual awards shine a spotlight on the companies and individuals driving growth and success in Midlothian and East Lothian — from pioneering start-ups to established industry leaders.
Entries are now open, and participation is completely free. Businesses of all sizes and sectors are encouraged to apply, and Chamber membership is not required to enter. Entrants can submit nominations for multiple categories, offering every organisation the chance to showcase their achievements and be recognised for their contribution to the local economy.
This year’s awards feature nine categories, including three exciting new additions that highlight the diversity and strength of our regional economy:
These new categories join our established honours, celebrating innovation, sustainability, community impact, and business growth across Midlothian and East Lothian.
“The Chamber Business Awards are a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the achievements of our local businesses — the backbone of our regional economy,” said Keith Barbour, President of the Midlothian & East Lothian Chamber of Commerce. “Each year, we are inspired by the creativity, resilience, and leadership shown by our entrants, and we can’t wait to recognise their success again in 2026.”
The awards ceremony in March 2026 will bring together local business leaders, entrepreneurs, and community representatives for an evening of celebration and networking, showcasing the very best of business in the region.
Entries close on 23rd January 2026 and finalists will be announced in early February.
For more information on categories, eligibility, and how to enter, visit https://www.melcc.org.uk/awards-info/or contact Mia Gilchrist on 0131 603 5040 or email mia@melcc.org.uk
Use Code MERRYXMAS10
A foodie’s Christmas wrapped in nostalgia with Baxters
Food and drink Christmas gifting from £40
A Christmas celebration wrapped in nostalgia with Baxters hampers. Timeless pairings, bold flavours and locality at the heart of each product, the fourth-generation Scottish family-owned brand has a spectacular selection of gourmet gifting options this Christmas to suit any occasion.
Share the comforting taste of tradition with this delectable curation of hampers and gift boxes that evoke memories of festive tables past with loved ones. Each jar and tin are steeped in family tradition with famed recipes that carry the essence of family gatherings, crackling fires and the unmistakable aroma of something delicious bubbling on the stove. Whether it’s tucking into a hearty bowl of soup with a crusty chunk of bread or smothering a fruit scone with a tangy sweet conserve paired with a warming cuppa, everyone in the family will savour each mouthful this Christmas.
Savour the season with the festive gifting range which boasts a selection of Baxters Signature sweet conserves and tangy chutneys, comfort winter warmer soups, classic crafted jams, award-winning fine wines, and more. The offering makes a heartfelt gift and a touch of familiar nostalgia. There is an option to suit every gifting occasion this Christmas with prices from £40 to £190.
www.baxtersofscotland.com
Voted Scotland’s best curry restaurant of 2025, The Radhuni in Loanhead is celebrating again after retaining its prestigious AA Rosette for the fifth year in a row.
It is one of only a handful of Indian-style restaurants in Scotland to have been awarded at least one Rosette for culinary excellence.
In October The Radhuni was named Scotland’s top curry house in Awards organised by national trade magazine Curry Life. Matin Khan, founder and Executive Chef of The Radhuni and its sister restaurant Itihaas in Dalkeith, was voted Scotland’s Best Curry Chef. Judges said he was one of the nine leading curry chefs in Britain.
Trophies were presented at a gala dinner attended by 500 guests at the Marriott Grosvenor House Hotel in London’s Mayfair.
His son Habibur, Managing Director of both restaurants (pictured with the new plate), commented: “Winning an AA Rosette is hard enough but keeping it year after year is even tougher. We have to demonstrate that we continually uphold the highest standards of food and service, which are also mirrored at Itihaas. Retaining this distinction is a tribute to the professionalism, dedication and hard work of our staff throughout the year.”
Rosette Awards are determined by an AA inspector during one or more visits to a hotel or restaurant during which the entire meal is assessed. The Radhuni was said to “achieve standards that stand out in their local area, serving food prepared with care, understanding and skill, using good quality ingredients.”
Gilson Gray, a full-service UK law firm, has announced the appointment of Steven Eckett as Head of Employment for England, an important step in the firm’s continued expansion across the UK.
Steven’s appointment signals the launch of Gilson Gray’s dedicated employment law offering in England. While the firm currently has an employment team based in Scotland, Steven will lead the development of a new London-based team. His remit includes growing the client base, fostering cross-border collaboration between English and Scottish offices, and building a strong national presence.
With over 30 years of experience in employment law, Steven brings a depth of expertise to the role. He has held senior positions in both private practice and in-house legal teams, including Summit Law LLP and Meaby&Co, where his work spanned complex employment matters across the commercial, industrial, and private sectors.
With international experience across Europe, the Middle East, Latin America, and the US, Steven is well-positioned to advise businesses on intricate employment challenges and global compliance strategies.
Gilson Gray is currently undergoing a significant phase of expansion, marked by a wave of senior appointments alongside Steven, including Jeremy Davy, who recently joined as Partner and Head of Residential Conveyancing for England and Wales, and Linda Pope, who has been appointed as Partner in the firm’s London-based family law team. The firm is approaching 500 employees, offering a full suite of legal services in London, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dundee, East Lothian, Aberdeen, Lincoln, and Angus.
Steven commented:
“Joining Gilson Gray is a fantastic opportunity to help shape the firm’s employment law offering in England. It’s an exciting time for growth, and I’m looking forward to working with colleagues across the UK to build something impactful and client-focused.”
Glen Gilson, chair and managing partner of Gilson Gray, added:
“Steven’s appointment is a key milestone in our UK-wide strategy. His depth of experience and commercial insights will be invaluable as we expand our employment law services and continue to grow our national footprint. Gilson Gray is proud to be a firm that attracts top-tier talent and delivers exceptional service across all disciplines.”