AMAZON has named some of the Scottish enterprises which will be attending its forthcoming event aimed at helping SMEs build their businesses online.

The Amazon Academy, which takes place at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre on May 23, will feature presentations and workshops hosted by experts and entrepreneurs. Among those attending will be former archaeologist and journalist Gilian Crawford, who has built the e-commerce jewellery business Lily Blanche from her Stirling home.

Ms Crawford said: “To have an event like this in Scotland is absolutely vital for SMEs like us. Having access to companies like Amazon on our doorstep would have been unheard of not long ago. It’s a great opportunity and really brings down the barriers to growth.”

Sydney Chasin, who studied at Edinburgh Napier University, created healthy popcorn brand lil ‘POP after a “lightbulb moment” during a trip to Washington DC. She said: “My biggest challenges so far have been scaling production. Finding a suitable manufacturing partner and creating a bullet proof supply chain is no walk in the park. As a pre-trading start-up company, we are looking to expand our e-commerce knowledge at the Amazon Academy.”

Iain Swanston, who set up Edinburgh training firm Klozers four years ago, is aiming to develop the company’s range of online courses. Mr Swanston said: “It’s also going to be a great time to speak to and learn from other companies.”

Also attending is Simon Stone of STO Toys, who is looking for advice on exporting.