https://caithness-business.co.uk/ Business news stories for the county of Caithness, Scotland en-gb PHP Business Index by Niall Fernie Copyright 1998-2026 Caithness.Org niall.fernie@gmail.com (Niall Fernie) 720 https://caithness-business.co.uk/images/logo_rss.gifhttps://caithness-business.co.uk/ https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32332 Part 3 of the series: Scotland at the Crossroads – Money, Markets, and the Economics of Independence. Launching a new currency is less like flipping a switch and more like carefully rewiring an entire economy while everything is still running. https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32332 Caithness Business Index Tue, 7 Jul 2026 01:01:01 GMT https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32318 Part 2 of the series: Scotland at the Crossroads – Money, Markets, and the Economics of Independence. Few questions in the independence debate carry as much weight or as much confusion as the question of currency. https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32318 Caithness Business Index Mon, 6 Jul 2026 01:01:01 GMT https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32319 For decades, people in the UK tended to view air conditioning as something that belonged elsewhere. It was associated with office buildings, hotels and hotter countries rather than their own homes. https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32319 Caithness Business Index Mon, 6 Jul 2026 01:01:01 GMT https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32320 The winds that sweep across the Western Isles have shaped the region for centuries—sculpting its machair, powering its fishing fleets, and defining the rhythm of island life. Today, those same winds are at the centre of a debate that reaches far beyond Lewis: a debate about how Scotland should pursue its renewable‑energy future, and what communities must weigh when global climate goals meet local realities. https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32320 Caithness Business Index Mon, 6 Jul 2026 01:01:01 GMT https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32321 The UK's savings system is dominated by ISAs and pensions. Together, they account for most personal savings. https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32321 Caithness Business Index Mon, 6 Jul 2026 01:01:01 GMT https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32322 Aluminium may not be something most people think about every day, but it is one of the most important industrial metals in the modern economy. It is used in everything from cars and aircraft to food packaging, beverage cans, construction materials, electrical equipment and household appliances. https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32322 Caithness Business Index Mon, 6 Jul 2026 01:01:01 GMT https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32323 Views are being sought on plans to introduce two new council tax bands for properties worth more than £1 million and £2 million respectively to help fund local public services across Scotland. A public consultation seeks responses on possible increases of around £720 and £3,600 above the current highest Band H council tax charges. https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32323 Caithness Business Index Mon, 6 Jul 2026 01:01:01 GMT https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32324 The Scottish Government's latest Economic Bulletin paints a picture of an economy that is continuing to grow—but only just. While Scotland has avoided recession, growth remains weak and businesses and households continue to face pressures from higher costs, global uncertainty and subdued consumer confidence. https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32324 Caithness Business Index Mon, 6 Jul 2026 01:01:01 GMT https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32325 Councillor resignations over taxi‑licence scandal Highland Council saw three resignations after the licensing committee allowed a convicted rapist to retain his taxi licence. The decision triggered widespread anger across Caithness and beyond, with residents questioning how such a ruling was possible. https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32325 Caithness Business Index Mon, 6 Jul 2026 01:01:01 GMT https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32326 New rules include a cap on donations from those who've lived overseas and tougher checks on company donations. New safeguards to stop foreign money influencing UK elections, including a timebound cap on donations on those who move to the UK from overseas. https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32326 Caithness Business Index Mon, 6 Jul 2026 01:01:01 GMT https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32327 More than 300,000 residents in supported housing and temporary accommodation will no longer face a drop in income when increasing their working hours, under new rules laid in Parliament today [Monday 6 July 2026]. Residents in supported housing and temporary accommodation previously faced a “cliff edge” loss of income when increasing their working hours New changes to the welfare system which encourage work and ensure it always pays come into force in October. https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32327 Caithness Business Index Mon, 6 Jul 2026 01:01:01 GMT https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32328 Government steps up action to protect children with toy safety rules. Government launches Call for Evidence to ensure toy safety rules are fit for a modern age It will examine emerging risks including chemical safety and AI-enabled toys Part of wider action to crack down on unsafe products, strengthen consumer protections, and provide clarity to businesses to support trade and growth Children will be better protected from unsafe toys under new plans to ensure the UK’s toy safety framework is fit for the modern age, giving parents peace of mind that the products they buy are safe, whether purchased on the high street or online. https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32328 Caithness Business Index Mon, 6 Jul 2026 01:01:01 GMT https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32329 NATO air policing conducted by F-35 jets from European aircraft carrier for first time in boost to High North security. Britain’s Carrier Strike Group, led by HMS Prince of Wales, is helping to defend Europe and the North Atlantic, with F-35 jets conducting NATO air policing operations from the deck for the first time. https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32329 Caithness Business Index Mon, 6 Jul 2026 01:01:01 GMT https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32330 The UK is sanctioning Russian actors involved in the development of deadly toxins Novichok and Epibatidine, linked to the deaths of Alexei Navalny and Dawn Sturgess. The UK is sanctioning Russian actors involved in the research, development and production of the deadly Novichok nerve agents and the lethal toxin Epibatidine used in the poisoning of Alexei Navalny and Dawn Sturgess. https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32330 Caithness Business Index Mon, 6 Jul 2026 01:01:01 GMT https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32331 Many major tech companies have pledged to pay their fair share of the costs associated with generating and transmitting more electricity to serve large data centers. But ratepayers across the United States are worried about the potential costs they might have to bear. https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32331 Caithness Business Index Mon, 6 Jul 2026 01:01:01 GMT https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32312 Student Loans are becoming an interesting political issue because reports suggest the UK Government is considering making the student loan system in England more generous again. Possibly by increasing the salary threshold at which graduates start repaying, or reducing the amount they repay. https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32312 Caithness Business Index Sun, 5 Jul 2026 01:01:01 GMT https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32313 Every few years Britain seems to rediscover the same argument. Student loans are too high. https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32313 Caithness Business Index Sun, 5 Jul 2026 01:01:01 GMT https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32314 For many younger people, it is almost impossible to imagine becoming a bank manager, engineer, surveyor or senior civil servant without first obtaining a university degree. Yet for much of the twentieth century, that was precisely how Britain developed many of its most capable professionals. https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32314 Caithness Business Index Sun, 5 Jul 2026 01:01:01 GMT https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32315 For more than half a century, Britain has pursued a remarkably consistent ambition to encourage more young people to go to university. It has been one of the most successful education policies in modern British history. https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32315 Caithness Business Index Sun, 5 Jul 2026 01:01:01 GMT https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32316 Europe’s energy crisis is often spoken about as something triggered by war, sanctions, and sudden disruption. But in reality, it has evolved into something more structural: a long-term rebalancing of where Europe gets its gas, how much risk it is willing to tolerate, and how far it is prepared to go—literally and politically—to secure supply. https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32316 Caithness Business Index Sun, 5 Jul 2026 01:01:01 GMT https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32317 Part 1 of a series: Scotland at the Crossroads – Money, Markets, and the Economics of Independence. Other articles will be publish in the coming week expanding the topic about various aspects of how money, savings mortgages etc might be treated under an independent Scotland without bias one way or another. https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32317 Caithness Business Index Sun, 5 Jul 2026 01:01:01 GMT https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32306 When politicians talk about "welfare spending", they are often referring to a very broad budget that includes: Working-age benefits (Universal Credit, disability benefits, housing benefit, etc.) State pensions Pension Credit and other pensioner benefits. The important point is that the State Pension is by far the largest single component of welfare spending. https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32306 Caithness Business Index Sat, 4 Jul 2026 01:01:01 GMT https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32307 After decades of central control, could the balance of power finally shift away from Whitehall? Every government promises to "empower local communities." Almost every government then proceeds to do the opposite. Councils are told what they must spend money on, what targets they must meet, what taxes they can raise and, increasingly, what they cannot do without first seeking permission from central government. https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32307 Caithness Business Index Sat, 4 Jul 2026 01:01:01 GMT https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32308 The £4.6 billion contract awarded to industry joint venture Edgewing, funded jointly by the three partner nations, will advance the next stage of the aircraft's design. £4.6 billion contract secured with Italy and Japan to deliver a next-generation combat aircraft. https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32308 Caithness Business Index Sat, 4 Jul 2026 01:01:01 GMT https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32309 Scotland is at a crossroads in how it recognises and promotes apprenticeships. England’s annual Top Apprenticeship Employers rankings—recently updated for 2026 have become a high‑profile benchmark for celebrating companies that invest heavily in skills, training, and workforce development. https://caithness-business.co.uk/article/32309 Caithness Business Index Sat, 4 Jul 2026 01:01:01 GMT https://caithness-business.co.uk/property.php?id=9505 We are delighted to bring to the market this beautifully presented three-bedroom semi-detached cottage, finished and fitted to a high standard throughout. This spacious home has been thoughtfully extended, offering generous accommodation that is sure to appeal to a wide range of purchasers. https://caithness-business.co.uk/property.php?id=9505 Caithness Business Index Sat, 27 Jun 2026 14:19:46 GMT https://caithness-business.co.uk/property.php?id=9504 This impressive ‘B Listed’ detached former Church of Scotland Manse, dating from the late 18th to early 19th century, occupies substantial grounds extending to approximately 1.52 acres, enclosed by attractive dry-stone walls, and is complemented by an extensive range of traditional outbuildings. Situated in a delightful setting just a short walk from the village of Canisbay, this attractive property enjoys far-reaching countryside and sea views, with panoramic views across the Pentland Firth towards Orkney. https://caithness-business.co.uk/property.php?id=9504 Caithness Business Index Fri, 26 Jun 2026 11:53:34 GMT https://caithness-business.co.uk/property.php?id=9503 This large commercial building is situated on Bridge Street and is spread over three floors. The entire building extends to approximately 315 square meters in total. https://caithness-business.co.uk/property.php?id=9503 Caithness Business Index Fri, 19 Jun 2026 17:11:54 GMT https://caithness-business.co.uk/property.php?id=9502 This spacious three-bedroom first-floor flat occupies a superb coastal position, boasting impressive views across Thurso Beach, Thurso East, the Pentland Firth, Dunnet, Scrabster and Orkney. Formerly two separate one-bedroom flats, the property offers excellent potential for landlords or those exploring the Airbnb market. https://caithness-business.co.uk/property.php?id=9502 Caithness Business Index Fri, 19 Jun 2026 11:39:39 GMT https://caithness-business.co.uk/property.php?id=9501 This beautiful four-bedroom, terraced home, has a garage and a mature garden to the rear. Many of the original features have been retained including original doors, cornicing, dado rails and the staircase. https://caithness-business.co.uk/property.php?id=9501 Caithness Business Index Mon, 1 Jun 2026 19:14:16 GMT https://caithness-business.co.uk/vacancy.php?id=250 Here at Riverside house care home we are seeking to employ a full time or part time dedicated and enthusiastic Kitchen assistant to join our team. The ideal candidate will play a vital role in supporting the kitchen staff by maintaining cleanliness, washing dishes and adhering to cleaning schedules. https://caithness-business.co.uk/vacancy.php?id=250 Caithness Business Index Mon, 6 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT https://caithness-business.co.uk/vacancy.php?id=251 Position: The Environmental Research Institute (ERI) is part of UHI North, West and Hebrides, Thurso, one of the academic partners of UHI. Our mission is to ‘provide dynamic leadership in research, innovation and education that advances understanding and informs management of our natural environment’. https://caithness-business.co.uk/vacancy.php?id=251 Caithness Business Index Mon, 6 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT https://caithness-business.co.uk/vacancy.php?id=252 Hugh Simpson (Contractors) Ltd. is the largest crane hire and heavy lifting services company based in Caithness. https://caithness-business.co.uk/vacancy.php?id=252 Caithness Business Index Mon, 6 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT https://caithness-business.co.uk/vacancy.php?id=247 Job Title: Business Admin Modern Apprenticeship Location: Janetstown Term: Permanent Job Overview JGC are offering an exciting opportunity for a Modern Apprentice to join our Administration team. As a Modern Apprentice you will work towards a SCQF Level 5 or SCQF Level 6 depending on experience and qualifications. https://caithness-business.co.uk/vacancy.php?id=247 Caithness Business Index Mon, 29 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT https://caithness-business.co.uk/vacancy.php?id=248 We are looking for a housekeeper who will look after our accommodation with the same care we give our customers. A team player who will be responsible for cleaning guest rooms, public areas and hotel properties in a timely and thorough manner to ensure guest satisfaction. https://caithness-business.co.uk/vacancy.php?id=248 Caithness Business Index Mon, 29 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT https://caithness-business.co.uk/vacancy.php?id=249 Do you love great wine and whisky? Do you enjoy talking to people and sharing your enthusiasm? Bin Ends, Caithness's favourite independent wine and whisky retailer, is looking for a Retail Brand Ambassador to join our friendly team. The Role You'll be the welcoming face of Bin Ends — helping customers find the perfect bottle, keeping the shop looking its best, and making every visit a great experience. https://caithness-business.co.uk/vacancy.php?id=249 Caithness Business Index Mon, 29 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT https://caithness-business.co.uk/vacancy.php?id=246 Full time Domestic assistant (30 hours per week) Here at Riverside house care home we are looking for a dedicated and reliable domestic assistant to join our team. The ideal candidate will work five shifts per week 8am-2pm ensuring areas throughout the home are maintained to the highest standard of cleanliness, this role is perfect for individuals who take pride in their work and enjoy creating a welcoming environment. https://caithness-business.co.uk/vacancy.php?id=246 Caithness Business Index Tue, 23 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT https://caithness-business.co.uk/vacancy.php?id=245 Barnardo's Highland Services is looking for a dedicated and compassionate support worker to join our Springboard Outreach Service, supporting care leavers across the Highland Area. This role is predominately based in Caithness and Sutherland however you may need to travel to Inverness at times. https://caithness-business.co.uk/vacancy.php?id=245 Caithness Business Index Mon, 22 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT https://caithness-business.co.uk/vacancy.php?id=243 Wick Golf Club are looking for an enthusiastic and hard-working person to join their greenkeeping team for the summer months. You will need to enjoy working outside and preferably have some experience with relevant machinery. https://caithness-business.co.uk/vacancy.php?id=243 Caithness Business Index Thu, 18 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT https://caithness-business.co.uk/vacancy.php?id=244 WE ARE HIRING Receptionist/Administrator - Thurso Office (Full-Time) Are you welcoming, highly organised, and confident in a fast-paced environment? This could be your next move. As the face and voice of out Thurso office, you'll be the first point of contact for our clients - creating a professional, friendly, and lasting first impression. https://caithness-business.co.uk/vacancy.php?id=244 Caithness Business Index Thu, 18 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT https://caithness-business.co.uk/vacancy.php?id=242 Position: We are seeking a proactive and detail‑driven Quality Officer to play a central role in upholding UHI North, West and Hebrides’ commitment to excellence. This position is critical to maintaining and enhancing the high-quality learning experience we deliver across the college and will be based at our UHI North, West and Hebrides campuses in Fort William or Thurso. https://caithness-business.co.uk/vacancy.php?id=242 Caithness Business Index Wed, 17 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT https://caithness-business.co.uk/vacancy.php?id=241 Scaffolder required for approximately 6 weeks contract in Fair Isle commencing beginning of August.Send CVs to caithness.scaffolding@live.co.uk for more infomation contact 07793102455. . https://caithness-business.co.uk/vacancy.php?id=241 Caithness Business Index Tue, 16 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT https://caithness-business.co.uk/vacancy.php?id=240 About Us Norscot is a leading manufacturer of high-quality windows, doors, and timber frame kits, operating from our hi-tech facility in Bower, Caithness. With a strong reputation for quality workmanship and customer service, we are committed to continuous improvement across all areas of the business, including Quality, Health, Safety, and Environmental (QHSE) standards. https://caithness-business.co.uk/vacancy.php?id=240 Caithness Business Index Mon, 15 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT https://caithness-business.co.uk/vacancy.php?id=239 Serving customers for dinner and breakfast on our campsite with adjoining cafe and restaurant. Over 18 please as we are a licensed premises. https://caithness-business.co.uk/vacancy.php?id=239 Caithness Business Index Sun, 14 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT https://caithness-business.co.uk/vacancy.php?id=237 The Pentland Hotel, Thurso, is one of three hotels in The Caithness Collection, an established family hotel business, with over 35 years of hospitality experience. The hotel has 42 rooms, which caters for tour buses from April to October, we have a strong local client following allowing us to stay open all year round. https://caithness-business.co.uk/vacancy.php?id=237 Caithness Business Index Thu, 11 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT