THE IMPORTANCE OF PLAYING TO EACH OTHER’S STRENGTHS
VICKI Unite, Chief Executive of Perthshire Chamber of Commerce, sees an accurate day-to-day view of business success in Perth via her organisation’s 400-strong membership.
“Perth has certainly fared better than some other towns and small cities, even in the tough retail market,” she says. “Recent reports show Perth is the only city centre in Scotland to have had more retailers open than close over the last year. But like all centres we have issues that need to be overcome.
“The determination and drive in the city, coupled with innovation and passion of our business community, is one reason why the impact has not been as stark. The location is key, too: we have great connectivity and accessibility.
“The high quality of life our region offer continues to draw people to relocate – we have strong population growth predictions. The biggest positive we have, though, is the strong partnership working across the private, public and third sectors. Working closely with our local authority ensures that the business community has a direct channel to help shape bold development plans. The Invest In Perth programme run by Perth & Kinross Council and involving key members of the business community is a great example.”
Eschewing the parochialism involved in the brand of placemaking adopted by similarly sized urban centres is, the Chamber would claim, embedded in the Perth psyche.
“Newer initiatives have included an enhanced programme of awareness around international business,” Unite points out.
“The Chamber has also been at the heart of the development of our new Perth and Kinross Developing Our Young Workforce strategy to bring business, education and young people closer together.
“As well as helping build the experience and skills of our young workforce, it will help (stimulate) a strong pipeline of skilled employees and ensure we continue to grow.
“Partnership and inclusion is in the DNA of our area. Shared understanding and common goals – playing to each other’s strengths – means we can achieve more, more efficiently and more quickly.”