One of Scotland's top economists is set to address local Kilmarnock businesses about the economic challenges and opportunities facing the construction sector in Ayrshire.

Chief Economist at Lloyds Banking Group Scotland, Donald MacRae OBE, will be speaking at the latest meeting of the Building Banter group, a networking forum for businesses in the construction sector.

The initiative is supported by Quantum Solutions, The Klin Group, Think Different Events and Make it Kilmarnock.

The founder of Building Banter and Director of Quantum Solutions Limited, Richard Neilson, said since the launch in August, the Building Banter meetings have proved a popular forum for construction businesses to network and hear from key developers and influences.


Mr Neilson added: "We are delighted to welcome a speaker of the quality of Donald MacRae to Kilmarnock. I am sure that Mr MacRae's in-depth knowledge of the Scottish economy will be of particular interest."

Leader of East Ayrshire Council and Chair of Make it Kilmarnock, Councillor Douglas Reid, said: "Building Banter is a unique business initiative which is cleverly designed to support the local construction sector. It is all about building relationships, creating new ones and learning from specialist key speakers. I am absolutely delighted that someone of Donald MacRae's calibre is taking the time to speak to the group, this is a great opportunity for us all to learn from one of Scotland's leading minds."

The meeting will take place at Merchants Restaurant in Kilmarnock next Friday.

See: Building Banter

(JG)