Scottish Business Briefing – Friday 4 January

House of Fraser's performance was boosted by its Glasgow store. Picture: Jane Barlow

MANAGEMENT

Pressure on law firms to force more mergers

THE heads of some of Scotland’s largest law firms believe further mergers are in the pipeline but they are hopeful improving economic conditions may ease some of the pressures in the sector. (Herald

• Read all today’s management news from scotsman.com

ECONOMY

Factory momentum lifts economy hopes for 2014

Britain’s manufacturing sector ended the year in rude health, figures out yesterday revealed, boosting hopes for the wider economy in 2014. (Scotsman)

• Read all today’s economics news from scotsman.com

RETAIL

Glasgow helps House of Fraser bag record Christmas

Record sales at its Glasgow branch have helped House of Fraser (HoF) deliver its best ever Christmas trading as shoppers made a last-minute dash to the high street. (Scotsman

• Read all today’s retail news from scotsman.com

TRANSPORT & INDUSTRY

Allied Vehicles eyes growth with £7m funding

ALLIED Vehicles has signalled its ambition to roll out a chain of mobility solutions outlets after securing a £7 million finance package from Bank of Scotland to support continuing growth. (Herald)

Hard times ahead for wood firm

Scottish timber processor BSW Timber has warned of challenging conditions ahead following a 68% drop in pre-tax profits. (P&J)

• Read all today’s transport and industry news from scotsman.com

MEDIA, TECH & LEISURE

Phone recycling firm Redeem sees rewards

Gadget recycling specialist Redeem Holdings is targeting further expansion into European markets after sales on the Continent almost tripled last year. (Scotsman)

• Read all today’s media. tech and leisure news from scotsman.com