What's happened
In 2025, Aberdeen-based offshore services firm OEG expanded globally, acquiring Trinity Rental Services and opening a new wind farm monitoring facility. Lochlie Construction aims to double revenue, while Scottish Chambers appoints Charandeep Singh as CEO. Entrepreneur Peter Vardy hosts a leadership summit, and a new Edinburgh consultancy launches.
What's behind the headline?
Strategic Expansion and Leadership Shifts in Scotland
The recent activities highlight a concerted effort by Scottish businesses to adapt to a changing economic landscape. OEG's acquisition of Trinity Rental Services and its push into emerging offshore wind markets demonstrate a focus on diversification and resilience, especially as offshore wind opportunities in the US soften. This aligns with the global shift towards renewable energy, positioning OEG for long-term growth.
Lochlie Construction's ambitious revenue target and investment in AI and automation reflect a broader trend of digital transformation within traditional sectors. Their focus on high-end residential projects and strategic partnerships with universities indicate a forward-looking approach to market demands.
Charandeep Singh's appointment as CEO of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce signals a desire to amplify Scotland’s voice in international trade and digital innovation. His track record and strategic vision suggest a focus on fostering a competitive, future-ready business environment.
Peter Vardy’s leadership summit aims to address leadership gaps, emphasizing character and influence across sectors. This initiative underscores the importance of leadership development in sustaining economic and social progress.
Finally, Steven Black’s independent consultancy responds to the rising importance of renewable energy and planning reforms, offering critical expertise to navigate complex regulatory environments. Overall, these developments indicate a proactive, strategic approach by Scottish firms and institutions to capitalize on global trends and internal reforms, ensuring long-term resilience and growth.
What the papers say
The Scotsman reports on OEG's global expansion, acquisitions, and technological investments, emphasizing its strategic milestones in 2025. It also highlights Lochlie Construction's revenue goals and focus on AI, as well as Charandeep Singh's appointment as CEO of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce, with insights into his priorities for trade and digital growth. Additionally, the article covers Peter Vardy's leadership summit aimed at inspiring Scottish leaders and Steven Black's new planning consultancy, which is responding to renewable energy opportunities and planning reforms. These sources collectively portray a dynamic and forward-looking Scottish business landscape, driven by strategic expansion, leadership renewal, and innovation.
How we got here
These developments follow a year of strategic expansion and leadership changes across Scotland's business landscape. OEG's growth reflects increased investment in renewables and offshore markets, while Lochlie Construction's focus on digital transformation aligns with Scotland's push towards sustainable infrastructure. The Scottish Chambers' leadership change aims to strengthen the business community ahead of upcoming elections, and Peter Vardy's summit addresses leadership gaps in Scottish society. Steven Black's new consultancy responds to rising renewable energy projects and planning reforms.
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