AN ARRAY of Fife businesses had a chance to share best practice at a special roadshow which stopped off in Dunfermline last week.

The Open University's (OU) inaugural Skills for Business Roadshow took place at the Vine Conference Centre and have firms the chance to take a step forward in building their business productivity and investment in staff training and development.

Co-hosted by the Fife Chamber of Commerce, the session was attended by a diverse range of businesses including Campion Homes Ltd, Dunnikier Park Golf Club, SQA, Fife College and VITEC.

Sharing key business insights and trends, the event also provided the opportunity for small to medium sized enterprises (SMEs) to learn how to access flexible online employee training at little to no cost for both individuals and businesses through a vast array of courses.

Tim Lewis, Business Relationships Manager for the Open University in Scotland said: “It was fantastic to have such a diverse range of Fife businesses join the roadshow.

"This event was all about driving awareness of the Flexible Workforce Development Fund and highlighting the support available to businesses.

"This support is both financial, but also at a strategic level, promoting the advice and practical help The OU can provide in helping business owners identify skill gaps and build comprehensive training plans across their team.”

Stephen Percy-Robb, Fife Chamber of Commerce's Chief Executive, said the response from local businesses who attended the session has been overwhelmingly positive and enthusiastic.

He added: "Our Chamber members recognise that investment in staff development is a crucial step in building our region’s economic growth, helping aid staff retention and improving productivity.

"Having access to funding and grants to support them is a game-changer for many of them.”