Scottish Business Briefing - Monday 23 April, 2012
ECONOMICS
Youth unemployment in Scotland at a five-year high
THE number of young people in Scotland who have been out of work and claiming job seekers allowance for more than 12 months has increased by more than 1,100 per cent in the last five years, according to new figures. (Scotsman)
ENERGY & UTILITIES
Leith port regeneration projects ditched as focus switches to renewables
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Hide AdAN £84 million scheme to revive one of Scotland’s biggest regeneration projects has been all but scrapped after the major landowner decided to concentrate on the renewables industry. (Scotsman)
FOOD, DRINK & AGRICULTURE
Fish rising: Scotland’s salmon sales overseas set new records
Sales of salmon to overseas customers have set new records, industry figures today reveal, providing a further boost to Scotland’s flourishing food and drink sector. (Scotsman)
INDUSTRY
Home repair firm looks to challenge the big players
A SCOTTISH home repair company is hoping to take on the big boys and garner £3 million in revenues in the next 12 months. First Call Home Assist is launching a range of policies covering areas like central heating, boilers and emergency repairs. (Herald)
BANKING
Former Bank of Scotland official in the spotlight after damning FSA report
Peter Cummings, the former head of Bank of Scotland’s corporate division, is thought to have been issued with a “seven-figure” fine by the Financial Services Authority (FSA). (Scotsman)
RETAIL
Black and Lizars boss eyeing up acquisitions
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Hide AdTHE chief executive of Black and Lizars is on the hunt for acquisitions after leading the business back into profit. Mark Ross revealed the independent optician is in talks with 10 practices across the UK about potential takeovers. (Herald)