24 APR 2024 · Join us for an insightful conversation with Colin McAndrew, Managing Director of Medusa Hairdressing, on the latest episode of Edinburgh Business Stories! With over 30 years of experience in the hairdressing industry, Colin brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to the table. From owning and managing six exceptional salons in Edinburgh to serving as a distinguished Wella Creative Artist and board member at the Fellowship of British Hairdressing, Colin's journey is nothing short of inspiring. In this episode, Colin shares his insights on the importance of laying the right foundation for success, managing stress effectively, and fostering collaboration within the salon industry. He introduces the innovative 'Brandchise' model, emphasising mutual growth and support among salon owners.

10 APR 2024 · Kirsty Allan, Director of City Access Scaffolding, joins Alex and Alan on this week's episode of Edinburgh Business Stories! Kirsty has helped City Access Scaffolding grow by over 1000% from year one to year four and continues to execute her growth strategy as we arrive in our 9th year of trading. Kirsty takes pride in thinking outside the box and has the confidence to execute a growth strategy in a new industry. Kirsty shares her journey through the entrepreneurial spark, navigating a male-dominated industry, embracing her chaotic personality, and learning from competitors. Join us as Kirsty's experiences shed light on the triumphs and challenges of entrepreneurship. Don't miss out—subscribe now for more inspiring episodes!

27 MAR 2024 · Steven Smith-Hay, co-founder of Vault City Brewing, joins Alex and Alan on this week's episode of Edinburgh Business Stories! In 2018, Smith-Hay started on a journey to create remarkable sour beers using simple ingredients and the magic of fermentation in his very own kitchen. As a result of his passion and dedication, he proudly became one of the select few to have an HMRC-registered excise warehouse right in the spare bedroom of his tiny two-bedroom flat! Now Steven has his beer on offer in the biggest UK supermarkets.  In this insightful episode, Steven shares stories about the start of his brewing operations, the issues they faced, how sour beer propelled their business and even how they got beer onto the shelves at a major UK supermarket! 

13 MAR 2024 · David Wither, Chairman of the Montpeliers group, joins Alex and Alan on this week's episode of Edinburgh Business Stories! Montpeliers Limited was created in 1992 and is a bar and restaurant group in Scotland. It is known for providing high-quality service throughout the UK. Montpeliers has eight bars located in Edinburgh's city centre, where they serve premium food and drinks. The group has won numerous awards over the years for its excellent service, quality, and operational expertise within the industry. During the episode, David shares stories about the success of the Montpelier group, the values and standards that have led to their success and even some of the celebrities he has had the pleasure of meeting.

28 FEB 2024 · Ian Stirling, the Founder and Co-CEO of Muckle Brig Ltd, is featuring in this week's episode of Edinburgh Business Stories alongside Alex and Alan. Ian established Muckle Brig, a Scottish spirits and wine producer, in 2014. The company has three significant brands, namely The Leith Distillery, Lind & Lime Gin, and The Leith export company. During the episode, Ian shares stories about how he came up with the idea for the company, the inspiration behind some of Muckle Brig's brands, and the workings of the drinks industry.

14 FEB 2024 · Tim Purves, Director of William Purves Funeral Directors, joins Alex and Alan for this week's episode of Edinburgh Business Stories. William Purves started the company back in 1888 and now, five generations later, Chairman Tim Purves represents the Purves family. The 'William Purves family' today comprises over 100 staff including four great-great-grandchildren of the founder. Tim shares gives us a behind-the-scenes look into the job of a funeral director, building strong company values, the Queen's funeral and how his faith shapes his guiding principles.

31 JAN 2024 · Lorna Clayton, Managing Director at Academic Families, joins Alex and Alan for this week's episode of Edinburgh Business Stories. Lorna founded Academic Families, a leading education agency that provides comprehensive support to international parents seeking the best UK education for their children. The agency offers assistance in school selection, enrollment management and visa support. Lorna shared some great insights with us about how she started her business, what it's like to be a guardian for an overseas child, the benefits of guardianships, and how she was awarded an MBE for her charity work.

17 JAN 2024 · Yolanda Luca, owner of some of Edinburgh's favourite family run ice cream shops, joins Alex and Alan for this weeks episode of Edinburgh Business Stories. The Luca family has been involved in all aspects of the business since its inception. They oversee everything from producing the ice cream to serving cones from their ice cream vans and parlours. Yolanda is now in-charge of ensures that Scappaticcio Luca's original vision and ethos are maintained. Yolanda shares insights into the company's marketing strategies, the difficulties faced by businesses during COVID-19, and some amazing stories from her experience at S. Luca.

3 JAN 2024 · In this episode of Edinburgh Business Stories, hosts Alan Smith and Alex Richards interview Johnny Blurton, the Director of Orocco and Trinity Decorating Services. Johnny shares valuable insights into the construction industry, from his early apprenticeship days to running his own business. He talks about setting up a business during the recession, building a strong team, and the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

20 DEC 2023 · We are excited to have Claire Middlebrook, Managing Director of Middlebrooks Business Recovery & Advice, on this week's insightful episode of Edinburgh Business Stories! Financial distress can be an overwhelming experience. It can be difficult to know what options are available to you. That's where Middlebrooks comes in. They exist to bridge the gap and guide you out of debt, so you can take control of your finances and start living a debt-free life. Join us as we chat with Claire about; Some of the more challenging cases she has worked on, her early career and share some all-around brilliant stories.