Past Times

Aberdeen Chamber of Commerce: a hub to connect and collaborate

1982 - New chief executive Charles Coull, centre, with, from left, treasurer William Paterson, president James Steven and vice-president Derek Marnoch.

By Giada La Vite

May 1 2022, 6:00 am

May 1 2022, 6:00 am

In this week’s edition of the Aberdonian, we collected photos of the Aberdeen Chamber of Commerce between 1970-95 .

One of only 53 Chambers of Commerce in the UK, Aberdeen’s hub is the largest in Scotland.

In times like these, when businesses are faced with continuous and diverse challenges, it is a space where companies can come together to connect, inspire and innovate.

Below is a gallery to celebrate the collaboration and goals achieved in the north-east over the years .

Do you recognise any familiar faces?

Aberdeen Chamber of Commerce in the 1970s

1970 – Members of the New Zealand Parliament Warren Freer, Leslie Gandar and David Highet visit the office.

1977 – Centenary luncheon attendees, from left, Charles Taylor, William Wylie, Lord Provost William Fraser, George Lawrence, Tom Boardman, Brian Broomfield and Charles Henderson.

Over a doorway in a granite building is the text "Chamber of Commerce". — 1977 – The Aberdeen Chamber of Commerce office in Union Terrace.

1977 – President George M Lawrence, left, is installed in office by immediate past president William Wylie, with secretary Charles Taylor looking on.

1978 – President Bryan Broomfield welcomes Irene Bryce at a reception for new members.

1979 – Front from left, assistant secretary Margaret Tait, guest speakers Gordon McBain and Mike Murray, and president Edward Massie at a seminar.

The events of the 1980s

1986 – Chief executive Derek Marnoch demonstrates the online credit information service which could be used to gather information on every limited company in the UK.

1987 – Glegg and Thomson managing director Colin Glegg, third left, presents a replica scroll to president David Paton.

1987 – Banquet guests including front, from left, Sir Maitland Mackie, Lady Provost Margaret Rae, Lord Provost Henry Rae, president James Cameron, Lord Glenarthur, Mrs Cameron and Grampian regional convener Dr Geoff Hadley.

Aberdeen Chamber of Commerce members pose for a photograph in formal attire. — 1989 – Chamber members and partners at their dinner dance in the Airport Skean Dhu.

1989 – Training Centre YTS manager Jennifer Wylie, seated left, and employment training manager Lesley Halliday with sponsors and trainees.

The Chamber of Commerce during the 1990s

Training at Aberdeen Chamber of Commerce in 1991. — 1991 – Training co-ordinator Sheena McLullich, centre, introduces Julie Scott to word processing.

1991 – Derek Marnoch, right, and artist Edward Walker, left, present a painting to Captain Tadeus Olechnowicz at the Tall Ships Race.

Princess Anne in a light blue dress stands at an Aberdeen Chamber of Commerce podium. — 1991 – Princess Anne speaks at the chamber’s gala event at Aberdeen’s Beach Ballroom.

Three women hold a banner that reads "The British Chambers of Commerce" — 1995 – The British Chambers of Commerce conference banner is unfurled by Zoe Corsi, Fiona Black and Claire Fitzpatrick.