The Go Radio Business Show with Hunter & Haughey. Scotland’s Business Podcast.

Business Show Highlights:

Fed’s Bold Move: The Federal Reserve cuts interest rates by 50 basis points for the first time in four years, aiming to stabilise the market.

UK Holds Steady: Despite global trends, the Bank of England keeps interest rates at 5%, sparking debates on future economic strategies.

Inflation Concerns: With inflation down to 2.2%, experts worry about potential rebounds and the impact on financial markets.

Currency Strength: The pound reaches its strongest level against the dollar in decades, influencing international trade and investment.

Future Predictions: Speculations on the UK potentially cutting rates by 25 basis points later this year and the long-term outlook for interest rates.

Economic Warnings: Government financial warnings and the challenges of managing budget gaps amidst economic uncertainty.

[00:04:28]

Impact on Pensioners: Positive news for single pensioners, who will see a £1,300 annual increase starting next year

Pensioners’ Good News Miscommunication: Discusses the frustration over poor communication from the Treasury, which turned a positive £2,600 pension boost for couples into a source of angst.

[00:05:00]

Labour Party’s Communication Strategy: Suggestions that the Labour Party needs Alastair Campbell back for effective messaging. Mentions economist Andy Haldane’s critique of the government’s fear-inducing communication.

[00:05:44]

Scandalous Freebies: Highlights the controversy over the Prime Minister’s wife’s clothes donations and the impact of such scandals on public trust.

[00:07:02]

Call for Alastair Campbell’s Return: Emphasises on the need for better communication strategies and plans to meet with Alastair Campbell and Morgan McSween to address the issue.

[00:08:10]

Political Honeymoon: Reflection on the short-lived euphoria following a political victory, dampened by recent revelations.

[00:09:37]

TGI Friday’s Nostalgia and Decline: Tom reflects on the fond memories of TGI Friday’s and its failure to evolve with the times, leading to its decline. Highlights the importance of businesses adapting to changing customer preferences.

Business Evolution: Lord Haughey discusses how successful businesses like McDonald’s have evolved over time, contrasting with TGI Friday’s stagnation. Emphasis on the need for continuous innovation to stay relevant.

[00:10:20]

Commonwealth Games in Glasgow: Talk about the return of the Commonwealth Games to Glasgow, the financial implications, and the benefits for the local hospitality sector. Mention that the clever deal ensuring no public money is used.

[00:12:10]

Flamingo Land Controversy: Discusses the rejection of Flamingo Land’s planning application at Loch Lomond, the challenges of planning objections, and the importance of aligning with local community interests.

Investment and Environmental Concerns: Highlights the tension between investment opportunities and environmental protection, with a focus on the role of the Greens in opposing certain developments.

Kiltwalk and Community Engagement: Mention that the Glasgow Kiltwalk, biggest in the world and its significance, and the community’s welcoming nature at Balloch Park.

[00:14:30]

Lord Wolfson and Business Evolution: Talks about Lord Wolfson’s insights on international expansion driving profits for Next, and the importance of business evolution in the retail sector.

Equal Pay Case Impact: Covers the recent equal pay case involving Next and its potential impact on the company’s operations and employee relations.

[00:15:45]

New Business Developments: Sir Tom discusses a new partnership in Edinburgh for developing homes, schools, and a community park, and the recent sale of Cala by LNG for £1.35 billion.

This Week’s Special Guest:

Dr. James McIlroy, Founder and CEO of EnteroBiotix Ltd

Background: Medical doctor and scientific entrepreneur dedicated to global health and wellbeing.

Career and Achievements

Founding EnteroBiotix: Established while at university with the goal of creating best-in-class medicines using healthy bacteria.

Funding and Development: Raised approximately £50 million in equity investment.

Additional Contributions

Inside Matters: Founded an organization providing educational resources on gut health and wellbeing.

Personal Interests: Passionate about exercise, nutrition, and lifestyle approaches to health and wellness.

The Board You Can’t Afford

Guest: Ryan Davidson, Highland Transfers

Strategic Question: Balancing the risk of revenue gain against maintaining customer experience.

Company Overview: Highland Transfers, a self-guided adventure and baggage transfer business, started in August 2019.

Client Base: Serves both individual clients and major self-guided and guided adventure companies globally.

Unique Adventures: Customises adventures to ensure each client experiences something unique, encouraging exploration off regular routes. 

Expansion Dilemma: Considering whether to heavily invest in the American market for potential revenue growth or continue with the current strategy that guarantees steady income.

Future Plans: Evaluating the potential benefits of expanding into new markets versus the stability of existing operations.

Episode Notes and Highlights

US Current Affairs:

Discussion on the controversial statement from Trumo about migrants and pets.. Comments on Kamala Harris’s performance and how she managed to rile Donald Trump.

Political Commentary:

John Bolton questioning Trump’s fitness to be commander in chief. Expression hope that Trump will not be president again.Comments on Trump’s claims about the war in Gaza and Kamala Harris’s remarks about President Xi and Putin.

04:35

Andrew Carnegie:

References Andrew Carnegie in the context of current events concerning US Steel.

07:00

Declaration of a New Labour government and the scrutiny over a £20 billion black hole.

Opposition’s demand for more details and the government’s lack of forthcoming information. 

Sir Tom Hunter questions the decision to cut pensions and suggests more time should have been taken to find alternative savings.

Labour Party’s handling of pension cuts statement and the lack of announcement of increased payments to pensioners. Discussion on the media’s focus on pensioners’ hardships and the potential negative headlines.

08:20

Public Service Salaries:

References a Freedom of Information request revealing high salaries for civil servants in Scotland.

Concern over the number of senior public servants earning over £100,000.

Value for Money:

Emphasises the importance of paying public servants well if they deliver results. Comments on the Scottish Government’s allocation of taxpayer money.

Public Sector Employment and Outcomes:

Highlighting the unsustainable nature of employing many people without improving outcomes. .

Public Sector KPIs:

Discussion on the lack of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) in the public sector compared to private businesses. 

Pension Cuts:

Suggests that deeper analysis could have prevented pension cuts and the resulting public backlash.

Civil Service Issues:

The civil service is broken and mentions the impact of COVID-19 on the system. Emphasis the need for strong leadership and accountability in the public sector, with appropriate compensation for good leaders. Discussion on the increase in civil service numbers in Scotland and their effectiveness.

Financial Concerns:

Highlighting the discrepancy between increasing employment and the existing deficit, calling it a recipe for disaster.

15:20

Celebrating 25 Years of the Hunter Centre for Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and Strategy

25th anniversary of the Hunter Centre for Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and Strategy at Strathclyde University.

Background:

The Centre was founded by Tom Hunter after selling his sports business.

Inspired by visits to top entrepreneurship centers in the U.S., including Babson College.

The Centre combines academic knowledge with practical entrepreneurial experience.

Key Highlights:

New Leadership: Nigel Mackenzie is the new director.

Mission: Focus on entrepreneurship, innovation, and strategy.

Research and Practice: Emphasis on practical ideas, influencing government policy, and making a difference in the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Achievements:

The Centre has grown significantly over the past 25 years.

It has become a leading hub for entrepreneurship research and education in Europe.

Future Plans:

Continued focus on combining academic and practical entrepreneurial insights.

Upcoming 25th-anniversary celebration event.

Economic Insights:

Discussion on current economic trends, including interest rates and inflation.

Positive outlook on long-term economic indicators.

Conclusion:

Recap of the Centre’s journey and achievements.

Excitement for the future and upcoming celebrations.

17:30

Economic Trends, Football Finances, and Leadership Insights

Economic Trends:

Inflation and Deflation: Current US deflation rate at 2.5%, with positive economic indicators.

18:30

Football Finances:

Financial Losses: Discussion on recent financial losses in football, including a £113 million loss. Jim Ratcliffe: Insights into Jim Ratcliffe’s business approach and the financial challenges in football.

Chelsea’s Situation: Analysis of Chelsea’s financial struggles and shareholder dynamics.

19:15

Upcoming Guest: Sir Alex Ferguson

Interview Announcement: Sir Alex Ferguson will be featured on the Go Radio Business Show.

Leadership Insights: Sir Alex’s transition from football to teaching at Harvard University.

Book Recommendation: Encouragement to read Sir Alex’s book on leadership.

20:45

Scottish Government and Budget:

Budget Balancing: Discussion on the SNP’s efforts to balance the budget, including new taxes on alcohol and cigarettes.

Political Strategy: Analysis of the political implications of budget balancing.

NHS and Government Efficiency:

NHS Spending: Discussion on NHS spending and patient outcomes.

Tony Blair Institute: Insights from the Tony Blair Institute on improving government efficiency and the role of AI.

22:50

Economic Insights and Lessons from Ireland

The Irish Economy:

Apple’s Tax Payment: Apple has been ordered to pay €13 billion to the Irish government.

Economic Surplus: This payment could lead to a €23 billion surplus for Ireland.

Comparison with the UK: Discussion on how the UK can learn from Ireland’s economic strategies.

Key Points:

Ireland’s Success: Exploration of why Ireland’s economy is thriving compared to the UK’s.

Government Policies: Highlighting the policies and strategies that have contributed to Ireland’s success.

Lessons for the UK:

Learning from Success: Encouragement for the UK and Scottish governments to study and adopt successful strategies from Ireland.

Policy Recommendations: Discussion on specific policies that could be beneficial if implemented in the UK.

24:09

Guest Kirsty Allan, Director, City Access Scaffolding

Kirsty was raised by her grandparents in Edinburgh.

Kirsty initially attended Granton Primary, but her grandmother, a strong believer in education, managed to get her into George Heriot's School on a bursary. Although she trained as a teacher, Kirsty also pursued various side businesses. Eventually, she left teaching to focus on developing her entrepreneurial skills, starting 'Treacle Boutique,' an online childrenswear business.

She was accepted into the 2nd intake of Entrepreneurial Spark, where she gained many of the key skills she now uses in her business and leadership roles. While 'Treacle Boutique' is no longer operating, Kirsty regards Entrepreneurial Spark as a crucial learning experience

Kirsty co-founded City Access Scaffolding with her husband and a third business partner. While her husband and the business partner focused on the operational work, Kirsty managed the business and handled sales. Ten years later, the company has a turnover of £6 million and employs 55 staff

Kirsty is committed to making the business the best it can be, with a strong focus on societal contribution. She has established a robust apprenticeship scheme and implemented several employee-focused initiatives, including financial and debt recovery workshops aimed at empowering employees with knowledge—efforts that are largely unheard of in this industry.

Securing contracts with Historic Scotland and working with Gleneagles Townhouse.:

Keywords: Donald Trump, Kamala Harris, Andrew Carnegie, US Steel, Steel Industry,Nippon Steel Acquisition, Industrial History, New Labour Government, £20 Billion Black Hole, Pension Cuts, Sir Tom Hunter, Lord Willie Haughey, Government Spending, Public Service Salaries, Freedom of Information, Civil Servant Salaries, Scottish Government, Public Sector KPIs, Hunter Centre for Entrepreneurship, Strathclyde University, Entrepreneurship Education,Economic Trends, Inflation and Deflation, Football Finances, Financial Losses in Football, Jim Ratcliffe

The Go Radio Business Show

02:00

Shona Robison Fiscal Update

• Scottish government announces budget cuts of up to £500m and measures totaling close to £1bn to balance the budget.

05:00

Lord Haughey on the 4-Day Work Week

• Lord Haughey argues that a 4-day work week could lead to job losses.

06:00

GB Energy’s UK Headquarters

• News leaks suggest GB Energy’s UK headquarters will be in Aberdeen.

11:00

Simon Pitts New Role

• Simon Pitts leaves STV in good health to join Global.

12:00

Craneware’s Financial Success

• Scottish-based Craneware reports a 20% profit jump to nearly £16m, with revenues growing 9% to $189m.

13:00

Innovate UK’s Grant Controversy

• Innovate UK faces backlash for awarding only 25 out of 50 possible grants to female businesses.

15:00

Hunter Foundation and Oxford Economics Report

• The Irish economy is projected to have an €8.6 billion surplus, growing five times faster than expected.

18:00

Wind Farm Success

• Several Scottish wind farm businesses secure UK government backing, potentially creating thousands of jobs.

21:45

Main Guest: Sean Tracey, Chairman of Hyper Luminal Games

Entrepreneurial Background: Sean’s grandfather established a successful import business in China in the 1920s. His parents met in China, where his father worked as a British spy.

Early Career: Sean’s first job was at Nardini’s in Largs, where he learned the importance of customer service and maintaining a reputation for quality and innovation.

Sean joined the Trustees of The Kiltwalk and began investing in early-stage businesses. He became Chairman of Luminal Games, a Dundee-based game studio that now employs 84 people and has recently released its first game. 

Sean’s greatest passion is helping businesses grow, creating jobs, and making a meaningful impact on the Scottish entrepreneurial community.

41:10

Board You Can’t Afford

Guest: Kevin Fallon, Co-Founder of Flex Medical Solutions

About Flex Medical Solutions (FMS):

A contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) specializing in Point of Care (POC) human diagnostics (e.g., COVID, diabetes, flu, cancer testing).

Based in Livingston, West Lothian, employing 50 highly skilled professionals.

A profitable, privately owned, self-funded business with zero external investment.

Discussion Topic

Kevin seeks insights on how the UK and Scotland can better support business growth through efficient and fair taxation.

Sir Tom Hunter, Lord Willie Haughey, Go Radio Business Show, Scottish Business Podcast, Scottish Entrepreneurs, Business Podcast, Glasgow Business, Eradicating Scottish poverty, 4-day work week impact, GB Energy Aberdeen headquarters, Clean energy UK, Simon Pitts STV, Craneware profit growth, Innovate UK female grants, Irish economy surplus, Scottish wind farm projects, Sean Tracey, Hyper Luminal Games, Flex Medical Solutions, Kevin Fallon.

Episode Highlights:

1. Labour’s General Election Success:

• Discussion on the accurate exit polls.

2. Economic Growth and Productivity:

• Lord Haughey’s feedback to Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves.

3. Lord Haughey meets Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes

• Lord Haughey’s Glasgow development offers affordable renting 'solution'

4. Housing Crisis:

• Lord Haughey’s conversation with the Deputy First Minister about lifting the rent freeze bill.

5. Scottish Enterprise:

• Securing 17,000 jobs for Scotland.

6. US Politics:

• Joe Biden steps down, Kamala Harris’s impact.

7. Retail Analysis:

• Tom Hunter’s insights on rates bills and e-commerce impact.

8. Brexit’s Impact on Business:

• Keir Starmer’s charm offensive with France and Germany.

9. Personal Milestones:

• Tom Hunter becomes a grandpa to Campbell Hunter.

10. Murray’s Legacy:

• Judy and Andy Murray’s academy plans and legacy concerns.

Hunter and Haughey's special guest this week is Doug Duguid, CEO of Indigo 7 Ventures and Aurora Energy Services. 

Doug was one of the founders of EnerMech.  EnerMech had a build and buy strategy, completing 17 acquisitions of owner managed businesses over a 12-year period – and was backed by Lime Rock Partners. It provided maintenance and commissioning services to the energy and infrastructure sectors - with significant organic growth through both international expansion and new service line offerings.

Doug previously spent 4 years at PSL Energy Services where he led the Lime Rock backed management buy-out in May 2003.  PSL provided well services and pipeline and process services to the oil & gas industry.

In 2020 Doug and Michael Buchan founded I7V Renewables Ltd – which is a private investment vehicle – which has provided capital to a number of early-stage renewables/sustainability businesses (e.g. Zelim, Recycl 8, Power Roll, Xergy Group, Realest and Resource Design) and is the majority owner of RenQuip, Recruitment Ventures and Aurora Energy Services.

Sir Tom and Lord Haughey will also offer business insight and advice - if you have a question or a suggestion for the show, email [email protected] or WhatsApp your question to 0808 17 17 700

Hunter and Haughey's special guest this week is Chris Stewart, CEO and Majority shareholder of Chris Stewart Group.

An experienced property owner, investor, developer and operator, Chris established his business almost 30 years ago and has since earned a reputation as one of the country’s leaders in urban regeneration, real estate placemaking and hotel development. CSG’s success has brought widespread industry recognition, with Chris winning an EY Entrepreneur of the Year award in 2018, in the Building a Better Working World category.

An experienced property owner, investor, developer and operator, Chris established his business almost 30 years ago and has since earned a reputation as one of the country’s leaders in urban regeneration, real estate placemaking and hotel development. CSG’s success has brought widespread industry recognition, with Chris winning an EY Entrepreneur of the Year award in 2018, in the Building a Better Working World category.

Sir Tom and Lord Haughey will also offer business insight and advice - if you have a question or a suggestion for the show, email [email protected] or WhatsApp your question to 0808 17 17 700

Hunter and Haughey's special guest this week is Allan Nelson, CEO & Co-Founder of For-Sight.

For-Sight, is a leading voice in transforming the hospitality industry. With a strong passion for technology and learning, Allan advocates for the strategic use of first-party data, CRM technology, and targeted marketing to drive revenue for hotels and other accommodation providers. Under his leadership, For-Sight delivers innovative, automated solutions to support its customers in building guest engagement, growing direct revenue, and fostering guest loyalty. 

Sir Tom and Lord Haughey will also offer business insight and advice - If you have a question or a suggestion for

the show, Email [email protected] or WhatsApp your question to 0808 17 17 700

Hunter and Haughey's special guest this week is Nadeem Sarwar, the Founder and CEO of Phlo.

Nadeem was formally a career commercial banker before founding Phlo in 2015. He is responsible for all company operations & the overall development and building of Phlo. His simple goal is to build Phlo into the number one, on-demand digital pharmacy service in the UK, helping patients like him, access their medication when & where they want it.

Sir Tom and Lord Haughey will also offer business insight and advice - If you have a question or a suggestion for

the show, Email [email protected] or WhatsApp your question to 0808 17 17 700

Hunter and Haughey's special guest this week is Paul Connelly, the visionary CEO of Connelly Security Systems (CSS), who has forged an inspiring journey from humble beginnings to becoming a stalwart figure in the security industry. Hailing from a bustling family of ten siblings and nurtured in the vibrant city of Glasgow, Paul’s early years laid the foundation for his unyielding determination.

Sir Tom and Lord Haughey will also offer business insight and advice - If you have a question or a suggestion for

the show, Email [email protected] or WhatsApp your question to 0808 17 17 700

Hunter and Haughey's special guest this week is Ian Kerr, CEO and Founder of Raven Controls digital incident management and events operations software.


Ian has intimate knowledge of the industry through his work with Major events, Stadia and National arenas.

Ian’s experience of planning, testing and exercising utilising Integrated Emergency Management principles, has been distilled and captured in the core of Ravens technology and operating system.  

Sir Tom and Lord Haughey will also offer business insight and advice - If you have a question or a suggestion for

the show, Email [email protected] or WhatsApp your question to 0808 17 17 700