AS A chamber we are continually looking to respond to the needs of business, to identify opportunities for our members and to keep abreast of the new trends and innovations.

A good example of this has been our recent focus on health and wellbeing, and the positive impact they can have for businesses. Healthy workforces have been shown to have higher productivity and energy levels, higher morale and lower absenteeism. Fit and healthy individuals tend to be happier (exercise produces endorphins), can fight off illness better and have faster recovery times.

To support health and wellbeing at work, the chamber launched our series of “netwalking” events over the summer in partnership with chamber member, Nick Smith of Square Pegs Coaching - an outdoor coaching expert. Simply put, netwalking is a mix of networking and walking enabling those taking part to talk about a variety of business themes during the event.

Following some fantastic low-level walks along the Dunbartonshire canal network, our next event, taking place on Friday, August 23, will provide the opportunity for netwalkers to enjoy a day hillwalking on the wonderful and iconic Ben Lomond (pictured right).

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In addition to all the health and wellbeing benefits for all businesses (the natural environment is also shown to promote wellbeing), this is a fantastic team building opportunity for those businesses with teams and could even be tied in with fund-raising for charity.

Another area we have identified as of value for Dunbartonshire businesses is in the area of tendering.

There is a huge opportunity for local businesses to win contracts both locally and nationally across Scotland and the UK. We are currently working on a programme that will support suppliers in our area by providing advice, training and information about contract opportunities and how to be successful in securing them.

Believe it or not, some businesses are already making plans for Christmas, so we have made early bird tickets for our ever-popular Christmas lunch available. This wonderful annual event will take place in the stylish surroundings of Boclair House in Bearsden on Thursday, December 12, and features a leading business speaker and a delicious three course festive lunch.

We would encourage any Dunbartonshire businesses who would like to be kept up to date and receive more information about our programmes, events and activities, to get in touch.

To find out more about the chamber and membership, please visit our website at dunbartonshirechamber.co.uk, get in touch on 0141 280 0272 or email hello@ dunbartonshirechamber.co.uk.