East Lothian, Scotland, 24 March 2026 – Glenkinchie Distillery launches an exclusive 30-year-old Single Malt Scotch Whisky, A Richness of Swallows, a tribute to nature’s beauty, enduring spirit, and the joy of home. Inspired by the springtime story of the little birds that return to their Scottish Lowland home following their journey across the African skies. This uniquely personal short story of the swallow is written by Distillery Guide of 15 years, John Johnstone, and the Glenkinchie Distillery team.
A Swallow’s Journey, the story which inspired the limited-edition release, is one that begins with the sun-scorched skies over the continent of Africa, as the richness of swallows, a collective noun for the birds travelling together, make its way to our Lowland Scottish distillery. Their arrival marks the start of spring and the fresh hope of summer’s brighter days ahead.
John Johnstone, Glenkinchie Distillery Guide and story author said: “This is a personal tribute from all of us here at Glenkinchie with a shared meaning, reflecting both the journey of the swallows and that of our 30-year-old single malt which delivers a richness in the whisky’s flavour and an incredible elegance, unusual for an expression at this age. At every step of the journey, as a team we made our mark, from working with the blenders to hand-selecting the casks that spoke to the swallow’s story, to curating the 100% recyclable pack with our partners in Scotland. Truly a team effort, it’s a privilege to be a part of this distillery’s legacy.”
This limited-edition Scotch whisky honours the distillery’s signature grassy character maturing in a combination of American and European Oak refill casks for 28 years, followed by a marrying in European Oak puncheons. This technique carries the perfect balance between richer dark fruit flavours and the sweetness of honey and vanilla, adding to the rounded overall character that preserves its vibrancy and vivacity.
A discoverable detail on the pack is the shadow of the birds flitting and flickering in the hazy east Lothian sunlight, over the rolling fields come harvest time, as the swallows weave through golden fields of ripened barley. A symbolic touch.
This limited-edition release launches on 27 March 2026. Limited to 1,002 bottles, it is priced at £595 and bottled at 58.4% ABV. It will be available at the Glenkinchie Distillery retail shop.
For more information on planning a visit to Glenkinchie Distillery, named leading Scottish Distillery Tour at the 2025 World Travel Awards and booking experience tickets, please visit malts.com.
Trying to detect and deal with a ‘traitor’ in a will and executry dispute? Call a lawyer first, says Scott Flannigan of Anderson Strathern.
What the Supreme Court ruling has reminded contractors about terminating standard contracts
Gilson Gray, the UK’s fastest-growing law firm , has been shortlisted for Legal Firm of the Year at the 2026 British Business Awards, reflecting the firm’s strong performance, continued growth, and increasing recognition within the UK legal sector.
A record number of more than 400 companies entered the awards this year, with those selected for the shortlist independently evaluated across five core pillars: business performance, innovation, workforce and culture, customer impact, and contribution to society and the wider economy.
Those achieving the highest combined performance across these metrics have secured their place on the shortlist, with the strongest performers now going forward to the independent judging panel, comprising 18 key figures from British industry, chaired by the former CEO of Unilever Alan Jope CBE and Emma Crystal, CEO of Coutts Bank.
The awards are set to be bigger than ever, with the announcement of a special guest appearance and conversation with award-winning actor and humanitarian George Clooney, plus the return of keynote speaker Sir Bob Geldof and co-hosts Rob Brydon and Elaine C Smith.
To be held at Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC) on 30 April, tables at the awards are in high demand with up to 2,000 business leaders set to attend. The awards will once again be raising funds for UK homelessness charity Social Bite, with a target of helping to raise over £1 million, alongside a fundraising dinner held by the charity the night before the awards event at Gleneagles Hotel.
Gilson Gray has more than 450 employees offering a full suite of legal services across offices in Lincoln, London, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dundee, East Lothian, Aberdeen, and Angus.
Josh Littlejohn MBE, Founder of Social Bite and Event Director of the British Business Awards, commented: “It’s brilliant to see so many businesses across multiple sectors and sizes listed on this year’s shortlist. We look forward to welcoming back the British business community for another night of celebration, and to help raise vital funds for Social Bite to allow it to continue making lasting impact for people who are experiencing homelessness throughout the UK.”
Glen Gilson, Managing Partner and Chairman, commented: “Gilson Gray is delighted to be nominated as law firm of the year for these prestigious awards. As the UK’s fastest-growing law firm, we are always keen to showcase our progression, particularly given our relative youth within a comparatively institutionalised legal sector. We wish all of the nominees the very best of luck and look forward to what will be, as ever, an exciting event.”
For further information on the award, visit: www.britishbusinessawards.co.uk
https://fastgrowth50.com/2025/12/fastest-growing-professional-services-firms-2025/
By Steven Eckett, head of employment for England at Gilson Gray
The UK is experiencing one of the most significant shifts in employment law in more than a generation. The new Employment Rights Act 2025 is being implemented in stages throughout 2026 and 2027, and therefore employers must prepare for a workplace landscape that is evolving rapidly.
The Act introduces twenty-eight wide ranging reforms intended to modernise workplace rights and strengthen protection for workers and employees, while setting out clearer standards for employers. It has been regarded as one of the most substantial updates to UK employment rights in decades, with many of its measures designed to support more consistent and fair treatment across the workforce and to commit to the Government’s manifesto pledge to ensure sure that work pays.[1]
One of the most notable changes is the significant reduction in ordinary unfair dismissal protection after just six months of service rather than the current two years. Coupled with the removal of the compensation cap for unfair dismissal claims, this change strengthens the need for employers to handle early-stage employment decisions with greater care. Transparent decision-making and consistent documentation including regular record keeping from the moment someone joins an organisation are now more crucial than ever.
Flexible working is similarly gaining new prominence under the Act. Employees can now request flexible arrangements from day one of their employment and employers must follow updated procedural requirements and provide more clarity when responding. This development encourages a working culture that is more open to individual needs and highlights the benefits of supporting people to work in ways that allow them to perform at their best.
Additionally, family-related rights are expanding. From April 2026, employees will have immediate access from day one of their employment to paternity leave and unpaid parental leave, with simplified notice requirements designed to make taking time off easier. This aligns with broader efforts within the new legislation to ensure early access to key rights and to foster workplaces where caregiving responsibilities can be managed fairly and without unnecessary obstacles. The right to Statutory Sick Pay will also become a day one right from April 2026 as the current three waiting days will be abolished.
The updated Act also includes important restrictions on dismissal and re-engagement practices often referred to as “fire and rehire”. These restrictions aim to encourage a more constructive approach to workforce planning rooted in genuine consultation and a clear exchange of information between employer and employee. Further guidance is expected from Government as consultations continue and ultimately conclude.
Workers on zero-hours contracts will also benefit from new rights, including more predictable working hours and stronger protections designed to reduce the instability associated with highly variable patterns of work. These reforms acknowledge that regular income and certainty of hours are essential for people to manage their lives and finances effectively, and they encourage employers to review how casual labour is used within their organisations. The main aim of these reforms is to ban the use of exploitative zero-hour contract arrangements, and to minimise the impact of the cancellation of shifts on workers and employees.
Reforms to trade union rights and industrial action procedures are likewise underway. Since February 2026, dismissal for taking part in lawful industrial action has been automatically unfair, and several procedures relating to ballots and notice periods have been simplified including the introduction of e-balloting.
While the Employment Rights Act 2025 does not replace or redefine the Equality Act, many of its measures complement wider commitments in ensuring that workplaces are inclusive, respectful and free from unfair treatment. The reforms strengthen the framework within which employees can expect to be treated fairly and gives employers clearer guidance on supporting staff with a wide range of personal circumstances. In practice, stronger employment rights help create conditions where everyone has a more equal opportunity to participate, progress and feel secure at work.
These developments also highlight the growing expectation that workplaces operate with clarity, consistency, fairness and genuine attention to the way decisions affect individuals. This means approaching situations thoughtfully, understanding the context behind issues as they arise and ensuring that processes are followed in a way that feels fair and reliable to the people involved.
Many employment disputes arise from hasty decisions or poorly followed procedures, so the new Act reinforces the importance of building strong foundations through good practice.
For employers, preparation is key. Contracts of employment and written policies and procedures are likely to require significant revision and update to ensure they meet the new legal standards. Managers will need training to support dependable handling of performance, conduct, flexible working and leave requests. Early advice will be crucial when issues emerge, as the shortened timeline for unfair dismissal rights and the changes to limitation periods increases the risk of missteps and legal exposure.
This period of transformation also serves as an opportunity. By prioritising fairness, improving clarity and treating each case on its own merits, employers can build workplaces that not only comply with the new laws but embody values and foster trust and respect.
The introduction of new oversight mechanisms such as the Fair Works Agency, which launches in April 2026 to protect workers’ rights and support compliant businesses, and which will have more teeth to pursue enforcement action, means that there will be greater expectations that organisations demonstrate an unfailing commitment to fair treatment.
Overall, the Employment Rights Act 2025 signals the start of a more balanced and thoughtful approach to workplace rights. With the correct level of preparation and planning and an emphasis on dignity and consistency, employers can confidently navigate these changes and create working environments that benefit both workers/employees and organisations alike.
Scotland’s businesses would benefit from a regionally-balanced, investment-led growth model, the Scottish Chambers of Commerce has said, responding to Rachel Reeves’ Mais Lecture.
The business organisation backed the Chancellor’s vision of an ‘active and strategic state’ to drive productivity, investment, and long-term economic growth.
At a time of geopolitical instability and rising global competition, SCC said the UK Government must prioritise resilience and ensure that businesses across every part of the country can access the opportunities created by new technologies and stronger international partnerships.
As the Government works toward deepening our partnership with European partners, businesses stand ready to support greater trade and cross-border cooperation: helping to expand market access, unlock investment, and reduce costs for firms and households alike.
Charandeep Singh BEM, Chief Executive of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce, said:
“The Chancellor is right to put AI and innovation at the centre of the UK’s growth strategy. In an increasingly competitive global economy, accelerating adoption of transformative technologies, including AI and quantum, will be critical to driving productivity, investment, and high-value job creation.
“This focus on AI, closer ties with Europe and regional growth reflects the priorities we hear consistently from businesses across Scotland. Our members will be excited by the ambition shown today, particularly given Scotland’s world-class strengths in AI, data, and advanced research.
“Ensuring that businesses in every part of the country – including Scotland’s towns, cities, and rural communities – can access the benefits of AI and new technologies will be key to unlocking economic growth that is both inclusive and sustainable.
“The priority now is delivery. Businesses must see these commitments translated into practical support – from access to digital skills, to stronger links with European markets and clear pathways to commercialisation. Scottish businesses stand ready to work with government to turn this ambition into tangible economic impact across the country.”
Landlords across the UK are preparing for one of the most significant changes to personal tax administration in years. From 6th April 2026, Making Tax Digital (MTD) for Income Tax Self-Assessment will transform how rental income is recorded and reported.
Under the new legislation, annual self assessment tax returns will be replaced by mandatory digital record keeping and quarterly updates sent directly to HMRC. This transition is designed to create an accurate, automated digital audit trail from each transaction through to the final tax submission.
For many landlords, MTD is an opportunity to modernise their accounting processes and gain better oversight of their property finances. However, it also introduces new compliance duties – making early preparation essential.
Why MTD was introduced and what it means for landlords
MTD aims to eliminate many of the reporting mistakes associated with manual or paper-based systems by introducing digital record-keeping and automated submission pathways.
The introduction of quarterly reporting may present as an additional administration burden; however, this digitalisation brings forth many benefits.
Digital reporting allows landlords to access real-time financial data, helping them understand their tax position throughout the year rather than waiting for an end-of-year calculation. This can improve budgeting, reduce the likelihood of unexpected tax bills and significantly alleviate the stress associated with last-minute filing.
What landlords need to do now
From April 2026, landlords with qualifying income above £50,000 must be registered and ready to comply with the new legislation. The income threshold will then decrease over time:
• April 2027: £30,000–£50,000
• April 2028: Above £20,000
Landlords whose income falls within the above thresholds must maintain digital records and submit quarterly updates using HMRC approved software.
Early preparation will make the transition far easier. Landlords should:
• Check eligibility using HMRC’s online tools and complete registration where required.
• Review and adopt appropriate accounting software.
HMRC has worked with leading providers such as Sage and QuickBooks, alongside other approved solutions, to ensure compatibility with MTD requirements.
• Plan for associated costs, including software subscriptions, onboarding, training, and potential increases in accounting or agent fees. Some government supported free software options exist, though they depend on meeting specific criteria.
Landlords should also ensure the correct platform is used based on individual needs.
Penalties
MTD introduces a penalty points system for late submissions. Each late quarterly update or late return may result in a penalty point. However, such penalties will only occur in repeated instances. If a landlord accumulates four points within a two year period, a £200 fine will be issued.
It is important to note that penalty points for late filing of quarterly updates will be immune within the first year of MTD coming into place. Thereafter, from April 2027, individuals will be subject to these penalties.
Conclusion
Making Tax Digital marks a major shift in how landlords manage and report rental income. By moving to more frequent digital reporting, landlords will gain a clearer, more accurate and more up to date view of their financial position throughout the year.
With the first compliance deadline approaching in April 2026, early planning is crucial. Ensuring the right systems and software are in place now will help landlords make a smooth transition and remain fully compliant with HMRC’s new requirements.
By Marcus Di Rollo, head of residential lettings at full-service law firm Gilson Gray
Five years ago, Macmac Cleaning Services Ltd began as a small family‑run venture in East Lothian with a clear ambition: to raise standards in the cleaning industry through reliability, professionalism, and genuine care for clients and community. What started with a handful of domestic clients has grown into one of the region’s most trusted providers of both interior and exterior cleaning services, serving East Lothian, Midlothian, and Edinburgh.
From the outset, Macmac focused on doing things the right way. Every job — whether a weekly home clean, a commercial office contract, or a full new‑build construction clean — was delivered with the same attention to detail. As demand increased, the business invested in training, compliance, and structured operational systems to ensure that quality never slipped as the company grew.
This commitment has shaped Macmac’s evolution from a small domestic service into a multi‑sector cleaning partner. Today, the company provides a comprehensive range of interior and exterior services, including domestic and commercial cleaning, office and retail cleaning, property management support, and specialist construction cleaning for new builds and refurbishments. The expansion into exterior cleaning has strengthened Macmac’s ability to support clients year‑round, offering a complete service that enhances both the inside and outside of homes and businesses.
A Major Milestone: Family Business of the Year 2025
In early 2025, Macmac Cleaning Services Ltd achieved one of its proudest moments to date: winning the Family Business of the Year Award at the Midlothian & East Lothian Chamber of Commerce Awards.
For a relatively young company competing against larger, long‑established family businesses, the win was both a surprise and a powerful validation of the team’s hard work. The award recognised Macmac’s rapid but responsible growth, its strong family‑driven culture, and its commitment to compliance and professional standards. It also highlighted the company’s visible contribution to the local community and its reputation for trust, consistency, and care.
The achievement was made even more meaningful by the fact that Macmac had been a finalist for the second year in a row, demonstrating that its performance and impact are not fleeting but part of a sustained upward trajectory.
Growth Rooted in Community and Standards
Macmac’s success has been built on relationships — with clients, partners, and the wider community. Word of mouth, five‑star reviews, and a strong local presence have played a central role in the company’s growth. The team has always believed that success should be shared, and Macmac continues to support local initiatives and community efforts across East Lothian and Midlothian.
The company’s expansion into construction cleaning has also been a significant driver of growth. With a focus on site readiness, safety, and documentation, Macmac has positioned itself as a trusted partner for developers and contractors who require a cleaning team that understands the pressures and standards of the industry.
Looking Ahead
As Macmac enters its next chapter, the focus remains on sustainable growth, continued investment in staff and training, and strengthening partnerships across Edinburgh and the Lothians. The company aims to expand its presence in commercial and construction sectors while maintaining the family values that have shaped its journey so far.
Five years on, Macmac Cleaning Services Ltd stands as an award‑winning, fast‑growing, community‑rooted family business — and its story is only just beginning.
Macmac cleaning services Ltd
4 Hoprig Tranent, EH33 1EL
www.macmaccleaningservices.co.uk
Tel. 07535 793558
Email: gillsymac1@gmail.com
• Turnover passes the £50m mark, following 14% annual growth, with major expansion across Scotland
• Firm strengthens commitment to Dundee with relocation to new purpose-built waterfront HQ
• Merger activity, new hires and tech investment fuel rapid national scale-up, especially in Glasgow
DUNDEE, 19 February 2026: Thorntons, one of Scotland’s largest independent law firms, has announced another year of strong financial and strategic growth as it prepares to relocate to new landmark headquarters in Dundee.
Turnover rose to £50.1 million, up from £43.9 million, for the year ending 31 May 2025, marking a 14% increase and a sustained period of expansion across Scotland. The firm continued to grow its national footprint, with standout progress in Glasgow, where the office has rapidly scaled from a small base to nearly 50 people, with revenues increasing at close to 50% year on year.
As it continued to expand its national footprint, Thorntons capitalised on the recovery in the property market, delivering a 24 per cent increase in associated revenue alongside a robust pipeline of corporate deal flow, private client work and international referrals. The firm also delivered strong growth in sectors critical to the Scottish economy such as energy, healthcare, tech and agriculture.
Operating profit held steady at £11.6m (£11.8m). This reflects Thorntons’ strategic investment during the year in its office locations, technology and people, setting up the firm for sustainable future growth.
Thorntons recruited 75 new roles and welcomed 16 trainee solicitors, taking its total trainee group to 34, as part of its long term investment in Scotland’s next generation of legal talent. There are now more than 680 people in the business.
This momentum underpins the firm’s decision to relocate its headquarters to James Thomson House, a flagship £26m waterfront development by Dundee City Council. Thorntons will occupy the top three floors of the Grade A building, reaffirming its long term commitment to Dundee, where it was founded.
Managing Partner, Lesley Larg, said: “This is a seismic moment for Thorntons. In the past year we have expanded into new markets, welcomed exceptional talent and delivered sustained revenue growth across our full-service offering.
“Our growth across Scotland, combined with our new headquarters in the heart of Dundee, reflects our long-term confidence in the city and in the future of our firm. Dundee is our home and it will remain so. We want Dundee to benefit from the wider success of Thorntons. Our new HQ gives us a modern base to attract talent, embrace innovation and deliver even more for individual and business clients across the country.”
“As we enter our next chapter, we are investing to future proof the firm, strengthening our capabilities, expanding our footprint and creating the kind of modern, flexible environment where our people and clients can thrive. These results, combined with recent mergers and major investments such as our new HQ, give us a strong platform to accelerate our growth strategy across Scotland, while deepening the international referral relationships that are becoming an increasingly important source of new work.”
Councillor Mark Flynn, leader of Dundee City Council, said: “James Thomson House represents a significant investment for the city in terms of modern office space, which is proving vital in our efforts to sustain and attract high quality jobs in the city.
“Creative thinking about how we use buildings and spaces is at the heart of the council’s long-term vision to reinvent Dundee and grow our economy, making the city a better place for everyone.
“Thorntons is a home-grown success story. The firm has expanded significantly in recent years and remains proud of its heritage. The new premises will enable it to progress its ambitions, especially around emerging technologies.”
The new HQ will provide modern workspaces, high-spec client areas, collaboration and event spaces and cutting-edge digital infrastructure. Designed to the highest sustainability standards, it includes BREEAM Excellent and EPC A credentials, alongside facilities supporting active travel.
VOCAL (Voice of Carers Across Lothian) supported Bright Sparks throughout the process, including providing examples and advice in the creation of their Carers Leave policy, reviewing the required documents to achieve the accreditation, and providing encouragement for the team throughout the process.
The Carer Positive award is presented to employers in Scotland who have a working environment where carers are valued and supported. Being carer positive helps to retain experienced members of staff, reduce absence, and cut down on avoidable recruitment costs.
Contact VOCAL to learn more about becoming Carer Positive accredited, and how they can support your organisation: https://www.vocal.org.uk/practitioners-employers/inclusive-workplaces/