AI for Business Growth in the Scottish Borders
The Scottish Borders Business Expo 2025 brought the world of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Actionable Insights into the laps of local companies.
The event held at the McDonald Cardrona Hotel near Peebles was organised by the Scottish Borders Chamber of Commerce (SBCC). It attracted more than 100 business leaders from across the South of Scotland.
The event featured a host of expert speakers from firms leading the advancement of AI tools in the UK and North America to robot and rocket scientists and took part in workshops designed to grow confidence in their ability to recruit and motivate staff and improve their storytelling.
AI Adoption Gains Momentum Among Local Businesses
Trevor Jackson, SBCC Chairman, was delighted with the event and the reaction of attendees.
He said: “It was great to see them all at the end say that because of what they had learned during the Expo they almost unanimously said they felt much more confident about now using AI or at least experimenting with many of the tools they heard about, to help drive the growth of their business.
“That, essentially, was what the Expo was all about. The SBCC has stepped up this year around a focus on improving the vision, visibility and voice of the region and the Expo was designed to help our businesses address all three.
Top-level insight to tech scene
“Last year, we launched a series of events across the region, and this year we brought it altogether in one place, on one day, and shared some top-level insight across the tech scene.
“The key for me, however, was that all the speakers, and workshop presenters, understood our audience, and tailored their presentations to what small and medium-sized enterprises across the South of Scotland need. I think that was a major reason why the feedback was so positive.”
”"I thoroughly enjoyed the Expo, it was great to see so many kinds of business in one room, and so much interest."
Diane GutiwVice President CGI
Examples of AI for Business Growth
Speakers included Selby Cary (Mapify Logistics), who discussed AI-driven improvements in UK healthcare and rail maintenance. Mat Norbury (FC Labs) showcased technology that maps the human brain to enhance performance.
Throughout the day, attendees heard from South of Scotland Enterprise CEO Jane Morrison-Ross; Sarah-Jane Burns, the Head of South of Scotland at CodeBase; Stewart Wilson, the Tweed Valley Blogger; Stephen McQuillan of moon developments; Rajbinder Singh-Dehal, Center Parcs’ Chief Corporate Officer; Suzan Brown of NetZero Nation; Kevin Greenfield, DYW Borders and Bruce Aitchison of effectivenow, who are working in schools to help young people become ready for work. There were also a marketplace of stands showcasing a wide variety of businesses across the Borders.
Debunking AI Myths with Global Expertise
The keynote speaker, Diane Gutiw, Vice President and Global AI Research Lead at CGI, traveled from Canada. She shared insights on AI for business growth in the Scottish Borders, AI’s role in Covid recovery strategies, and business innovation.
She encouraged business leaders to control AI rather than let it control them:
“AI is already embedded in our daily lives. Businesses need to understand how to leverage it effectively. Events like this help debunk AI myths and demonstrate practical, real-world applications.”
Gutiw also shared a personal connection. Her mother worked as a punched card operator in Edinburgh in the 1950s. This job revolutionised data storage, much like AI is transforming businesses today.
The Real-World Value of AI for Businesses
Gutiw emphasised AI’s role in addressing skills shortages, especially as baby boomers retire:
“AI can rapidly identify patterns and solve complex problems. Previously, these required extensive time and expertise.”
Scottish Borders Council Leader Councillor Euan Jardine also highlighted the region’s digital transformation. He cited:
- The 2025 Project Gigabit broadband rollout for rural areas
- Feasibility studies for Borders Railway expansion
Jardine commended the Expo’s role in fostering collaboration and innovation:
“The Scottish Borders is not just punching above its weight. It is a heavyweight region for business and innovation on a global scale.”
Looking Ahead: AI for Business Growth Catalyst
The Scottish Borders Business Expo 2025 reinforced the region’s commitment to technological advancement and business growth. As AI continues to evolve, local businesses are better equipped to harness its potential. They can drive efficiency and remain competitive in a rapidly changing marketplace.
Click here for more information on joining the Scottish Borders Chamber of Commerce.
