THE sold-out Scottish Plant Owners Association’s (SPOA) 74th annual dinner was another resounding success.
A record 500 guests put on their finest clothes and packed out the elegant Hilton Glasgow ballroom for a night of fine dining, celebration, networking, entertainment, and prizegiving.
Compere for the evening was sports broadcaster Peter Martin, who opened the event and introduced to the stage SPOA president David Jarvie.
David, making his inaugural president’s speech, said the strength of the association was reflected in the remarkable turnout.
After taking the time to honour ex-SPOA president Douglas Anderson following his recent passing, David reflected on leadership and legacy and referenced a speech made by his own father John who stood at the same podium as SPOA president almost three decades earlier in which he spoke of an industry that was well prepared to meet future challenges.
“Today, I stand here with immense pride, knowing that those fundamental values – stability, unity, and opportunity – continue to guide our association,” David said. “These principles remain at the heart of everything we do, shaping our approach and ensuring we move forward together as a strong and cohesive industry.”
David spoke of some of the challenges facing members, including skills shortages and proposed changes to property relief, and revealed the association will continue to push for policies that protect the future of family-run businesses.
He went on to explain how the SPOA has been working with CITB to support apprenticeships and entry level programmes, including taking the association’s plant simulator to career events. He also highlighted the launch of the SPOA’s first digital strategy and the success of the Women in Plant network and the work being driven forward by SPOA vice-president Gail McEwen to help build a pipeline of future talent.
David’s speech included an announcement that, thanks to prudent budgeting, the SPOA is now in a position to recruit a second member of staff – a dedicated skills and training officer.
“The introduction of this role will deliver significant benefits for our members,” David explained. “They will be responsible for promoting and facilitating the use of our plant simulator at career engagement events, increasing its impact and accessibility. In addition, they will support members in gaining access to essential CITB-funded training courses, helping businesses to develop the skills required to meet their customers’ evolving needs and demands. In short, this role is about making sure the investments the SPOA has already made – in technology, training and partnerships – are fully utilised for the benefit of every member of the SPOA.”
After thanking platinum sponsors Manitou and HRN, David gave a special mention to Vicky Park, who rejoined the SPOA as membership manager last year and has played a pivotal role in keeping the cogs of the association running smoothly.
The speech concluded with a word on upcoming events. “The more we put in, the more we all get out,” David said. “Tonight is all about reflection and celebration. We honour the past, embrace the present, and look forward with optimism.”
One of the highlights of the evening was the presenting of the annual Apprentice of the Year awards. Sam Griffin was named Plant Mechanic Apprentice of the Year, while Kate MacLeod took home the Plant Operator Apprentice of the Year accolade.
Elsewhere, Billy Reid Magic wowed guests with close up magic tricks, Graeme Johncock gave a stirring address to the haggis, and renowned after dinner speaker Willie Allan went down a storm with his hilarious tales.
The evening concluded with a live auction, followed by the opportunity to network with many of the most influential figures in the Scottish plant sector. There was also a silent auction and a raffle running throughout the night, with 50% of the profits going towards the SPOA’s Youth Sports Sponsorship Programme.
