Silicon gloom
Article Abstract:
The computer assembly plants of Scotland are being affected by the depressed state of the computer industry of the US. The lucrativeness of these assembly plants is based on their ability to ship large product volumes. The continued enhancement of the computer's capabilities however limits the demand for new computers since existing systems have features which allow for upgrades. This waning demand for computer products can be offset by Scotland's electronics manufacturers by focusing on the applications aspect of computers. It is forecasted that the true value of computers in the 1990s and beyond is in the definition of their functions, and not in their manufacture. The development of software packages that will address the computing needs of customers can provide Scotland with the means to create a better balance between manufacturers and the applications sector of its computer industry.
Publication Name: The Accountant's Magazine
Subject: Business
ISSN: 0001-4761
Year: 1991
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Mutual benefits?
Article Abstract:
Britannia Life Ltd Managing Director Peter Burdon recounts his company's experience since its emergence from the demutualization of Scotland's smallest life assurance mutual, FS Assurance. Burdon notes that the demutualization of FS Assurance was prompted by the impact of the 1986 Financial Services Act on the structure of insurance distribution channels. The demutualization of FS Assurance came about when it was acquired by Britannia Life for 45 million pounds sterling in 1991. Britannia's parent company, a large British building society, subsequently purchased the life, pensions, and unit trust business of Crusader Insurance PLC, allowing it to boost Britannia Life's funds to over 1,000 million pounds sterling thereby increasing the chances of profitability of Britannia Life's investment arm.
Publication Name: The Accountant's Magazine
Subject: Business
ISSN: 0001-4761
Year: 1991
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Time to stop the manufacturing rot
Article Abstract:
The decline in Scotland's manufacturing base must be reversed. Scotland has too many companies in the service industry, but not enough manufacturing firms. Service firms cannot sustain the economy because services are not easily exportable, and many service firms depend on a strong manufacturing base. Even the Howden Group, an established firm, has closed its Renfrew plant, and this trend may continue. Improving the manufacturing infrastructure by creating more growth companies will result in increased competitiveness.
Publication Name: The Accountant's Magazine
Subject: Business
ISSN: 0001-4761
Year: 1990
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