THE GOOD NEWS...

Scotland has seen 30 new Business Improvement Districts launch since the scheme first began a decade ago, from Lerwick to Linlithgow and Largs to Loch Ness.

In the food and drinks industry last year, the number of Chinese takeaways rose by 50%; cafés and tearooms by almost 30%; and bars and restaurants by 8%.

At least 275 new jobs are to be created by a £28m Co-op Scotland expansion. The move will see 18 brand new stores open – and a further 20 being upgraded.

More than 300 jobs will be created by Lidl under an 18-month expansion plan. The retailer will open five new stores in Scotland by the end of 2019.