Dayna Bass

As Scotland's retail sector faces a challenging economic climate, a coalition of nine business groups has written to Finance Secretary Shona Robison, urging the Scottish Government to provide rates relief for retailers in the upcoming Budget. The call comes as businesses grapple with rising costs and shifting consumer spending patterns. Retailers in Scotland are hoping for similar support measures to those offered by the UK Government, which last month introduced temporary and capped business rates relief for the retail, hospitality, and leisure sectors in England. Urgency as Budget Approaches The letter, signed by prominent business organizations, stresses the need for…

Scotland’s prison system is under scrutiny as a new report by the Scottish Prison Inspectorate highlights significant concerns about overcrowding and its effects on prisoners, staff, and the overall system. Despite efforts like the emergency early release of prisoners, the prison population remains “stubbornly high,” creating systemic challenges. Findings From the Chief Inspector In his report, interim Chief Inspector Stephen Sandlam detailed the pressing challenges: Overcrowding: Many prisoners are forced to share cells, including in spaces not suitable for sharing. Rising Remand Population: The increase in remand prisoners is straining resources, with the Scottish Prison Service (SPS) unable to accommodate…

Highland Community Interest Company (CIC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Jan Tucker to its Board of Directors. As the Solution Owner for Energy Resilience at Costain, Tucker brings over two decades of strategic experience within the energy sector, which will play a pivotal role as the region seeks to lead in the green revolution. A Strategic Appointment for Highland CIC Jan Tucker’s appointment marks an exciting development for Highland CIC, a company focused on driving sustainable growth in the Highlands of Scotland. His extensive experience in energy resilience and business development makes him an ideal fit to support…

In recent years, there has been growing support across various political parties and industries for a distinct immigration policy for Scotland. The idea of a Scottish visa, which would allow the country to address its unique demographic and economic challenges, is gaining traction as a way to tackle Scotland's specific needs within the broader UK immigration framework. The Case for a Scottish Visa The concept of a Scottish visa isn't new. In fact, it has been discussed since before the Brexit referendum, with figures like Michael Gove suggesting that, should the UK leave the European Union, Scotland could have the…

A farm in Scotland has unveiled the UK’s most expensive coffee, a flat white priced at an astonishing £272 (about Rs 28,000). While the price tag raises eyebrows, this drink isn’t just about luxury—it’s part of a unique initiative blending ethical farming, sustainability, and cultural heritage. The Costliest Coffee with a Purpose Mossgiel Organic Dairy, the creators of this pricey flat white, introduced the initiative as a crowdfunding campaign. Investors can purchase a share in the dairy for £272, receiving a certificate of ownership, discounts on milk deliveries, and access to exclusive events. Oh, and the coffee. This extraordinary beverage…

Scotland's wool industry, once integral to its culture and economy, seems to be losing its charm. Despite the country’s rich sheep farming tradition, wool in Scotland is often regarded as an afterthought. While nations like Norway have found innovative ways to embrace and celebrate their wool, Scotland, with its abundance of sheep, appears to undervalue this natural resource. From local crofters burning their wool to the absence of iconic woolly hats in popular culture, the question arises: why has Scotland’s wool industry fallen into decline? The Shetland Wool Dilemma The lack of woolly hats in the BBC’s "Shetland" series is…

The Burrell Collection in Glasgow has earned the prestigious RIAS Andrew Doolan Best Building in Scotland award for 2024. Renovated by British studio John McAslan + Partners, the project has been lauded for its respectful restoration and ambitious updates, bringing the iconic structure firmly into the 21st century. A Legacy Respected Originally designed by Barry Gasson Architects, the Burrell Collection first opened its doors in 1983. Located within Glasgow’s Pollok Country Park, the museum’s unique architecture earned it a Grade A listing, but decades of wear necessitated a significant overhaul. John McAslan + Partners took on the challenge, retaining the…

Suntory, the Japanese beverages giant, has announced plans to shift the bottling of its Cooley Distillery-produced whiskeys—Kilbeggan, Tyrconnell, and Connemara—from its current facility in Dundalk, Co Louth, to locations in Scotland and Spain. Strategic Shift in Bottling Operations The move marks a significant change for Cooley Distillery, which has been a key player in the Irish whiskey industry. Suntory, which owns Cooley Distillery, plans to consolidate its bottling operations by transferring production to its facilities in Spain and Scotland. This decision comes as part of a broader strategy to optimize Suntory's production and distribution capabilities across Europe. The decision to…

Parts of Scotland are facing hazardous weather as snow and ice cause widespread disruption. The Met Office has extended its weather warnings, prompting school closures and travel advisories. The cold snap, which began earlier this week, has seen temperatures plummet to the lowest in over two decades, affecting daily life across the country. A Bitter Start to Winter Scotland experienced its coldest November morning in 26 years, with temperatures in Braemar, Aberdeenshire, reaching a bone-chilling -11.2C (11.8F). This severe weather is causing significant challenges, particularly in the north and west of the country. By mid-week, the snow continued to fall…

In a high-stakes encounter in the UEFA Nations League A, Poland will face Scotland at the Stadion Narodowy in Warsaw, with both teams fighting to avoid relegation from Group A1. After a tough campaign, the match promises to be an intense battle, with both sides needing points for survival in the league. Poland's Push for Survival Poland's situation is clear: a draw or a win will secure their position above Scotland and avoid automatic relegation. They enter the game in third place in Group A1, just ahead of Steve Clarke's Scotland. Poland will look to bounce back from a humiliating…