Scottish Business Briefing - Tuesday 08 May, 2012
ECONOMICS
Outbreak of optimism from manufacturers
Optimism among Britain’s small manufacturers has risen for the first time in a year, despite many companies expressing fears that political and economic uncertainty could curtail demand for exports, the CBI said today (Scotsman).
FOOD, DRINK & AGRICULTURE
£10m funding push for first distillery on Harris
POTENTIAL funders of the first ever legal Scotch whisky distillery on Harris have expressed interest in putting up about one-third of the £10 million investment required, the managing director-designate of the project has revealed (Herald).
Organic vegetable firm just keeps on growing
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Hide AdThe chairman of Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) has hailed an organic vegetable business eyeing international opportunities as one of the area’s unsung heroes (P&J).
MEDIA & LEISURE
Thomas Cook agrees £1.4bn refinancing package
Thomas Cook has announced a refinancing package worth £1.4bn which gives the troubled tour operator a further three years to repay its debts (BBC).
RETAIL
Stay of execution for eyesore as £850m St James Centre vision falters
AN £850 million development to replace one of Edinburgh’s most notorious eyesores has been delayed indefinitely. The St James Quarter, which is due to replace the shopping centre and former Scottish Office headquarters at the east end of Princes Street, was due to be complete by 2015 (Scotsman).
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TECHNOLOGY
Albagaia wins £500k for overseas expansion plan
OVERSEAS expansion is on the cards for environmental technology outfit Albagaia after the Edinburgh-based firm raised nearly £500,000 through business angels and grant funding (Scotsman).