PCS was established almost four years ago to address the need to improve productivity levels in the country. It did this by facilitating learning programs for small to medium sized businesses (SMBs) dedicated to the development of Scotland’s economy and well-being.

With this new funding, PCS will be able to expand its network, and organise a series of peer-to-peer learning events through Scotland.

In 2022, PCS was expanded to align with the goals of Scotland’s National Strategy for Economic Transformation, aiming to assist business, third sector, and public sector leaders in implementing practical measures to enhance their organisations’ productivity. 

According to PCS, 52% of attendees reported not seeking support elsewhere, while an equal percentage indicated that they took actionable steps to implement the knowledge gained from club meetings.

One such success story is Women’s Enterprise Scotland, who estimated that implementing improvements gleaned from attending PCS meetings led to an increase of £600,000 in turnover for the supported businesses.

“The Productivity Club offers support and harnesses the immense value of peer support when it comes to practical investment and what truly works,” said Carolyn Currie, chief executive of Women’s Enterprise Scotland

Launched in 2019, PCS has presented nearly 200 case studies on various topics, such as digital transformation, fair work, and achieving net zero, during over 100 meetings. The program has also hosted three regional conferences, with approximately 2,200 members from the private, third, and public sectors.

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Speaking on the new funding, Eleonora Vanello, programme manager at PCS said:  “Increasing productivity and innovation in Scotland is crucial to transforming the economy.  The continued support of PCS will help the Scottish Government deliver its ambitions and allows us to provide a programme which drives increased productivity across Scottish businesses. As demonstrated in our evaluation, there has been a tangible impact on those businesses who attend the clubs and we are happy to play our part in increasing Scotland’s productivity and achieving a more inclusive, wellbeing economy.”

Richard Lochhead, Minister for Small Business, Innovation and Trade, added: “ Established and impactful initiatives, like Productivity Club Scotland will play a critical role in delivering this ambition, which is why I am pleased to be extending our partnership with the SCDI, enabling it to continue supporting smaller businesses and third sector organisations across the country.”