Caithness plays host to chamber of commerce forum
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CHAMBER of commerce chief executives from across Scotland gathered in Caithness this week to discuss issues affecting all businesses as well as to share the challenges and opportunities they face in their respective areas.
It was the first time Caithness Chamber of Commerce had hosted the Scottish Chambers of Commerce Chief Executives Forum, and as well as the meeting itself the two-day excursion allowed the visitors to tour the county and find out what the far north has to offer.
The whistle-stop trip, using a minibus provided by Blargoans, began with a private tour of the Castle of Mey. The chief executives admired the sensitive treatment of the history and heritage of the castle.
The visitors then toured Dunnet Bay Distillers' distillery and visitor centre. The chief executives were impressed at the scale and rapid growth of the business, as well as the quality of the product and visitor experience.
This was followed by a quick visit to the famous signpost at John O’Groats.
The day was rounded off with a meal at Mackays Hotel in Wick, followed by an early night prior to the main business of the meeting on Tuesday.
As a parting gift, the visiting chief executives were presented with a goody bag containing samples of Rock Rose Gin, Ice and Fire Distillery Caithness Raiders Rum, and chocolates from CoCo Campervans – Chocolatier.
We met some truly inspirational members of Caithness Chamber of Commerce, who gave us a warm welcome.
Val Russell, chief executive of Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce and chair of the chief executives forum, said: “Despite the weather, it was a wonderfully well organised visit with great hospitality, exposing us to the best of what the area has to offer both in products and tourism attractions.
“We met some truly inspirational members of Caithness Chamber of Commerce, who gave us a warm welcome. Many of us will be returning for a longer visit.”
Trudy Morris, chief executive of Caithness Chamber of Commerce, said: “This was a fantastic opportunity for us to showcase some of the best of what this area has to offer. We really appreciate the chief executives of chambers from across Scotland taking the time out of their busy schedules to come to Caithness and see at first hand the unique challenges and opportunities that come with doing business in the north Highlands.”
