Scotland’s Towns Partnership welcomed key partners and stakeholders to an exclusive summer session focused on the critical role of responsible tourism in advancing local economic development and place-based investment across Scotland.
The invitation-only event, which took place on Tuesday (17th June) at the Perth Concert Hall, shone a light on how sustainable tourism strategies have become central to revitalising communities, supporting local businesses, and aligning with the broader strategic goals of towns and cities across the country.
Delivering a keynote address to attendees, Vicki Miller, Chief Executive of VisitScotland shared the organisation’s strategic direction and outlined the collaborative efforts aimed at strengthening local economies:
She said: “Tourism, and the visitor economy, when done right can spark real change in our communities.
“Tourism is changing and this is an exciting moment for Scotland to capitalise on opportunities that are unique to our places – be that through the wellbeing economy, food and drink, outdoor experiences or our rich natural and built environment.”
“We should see tourism as a force for good – leveraging Scotland’s international profile as a fantastic place to live, work and visit for the benefit of our people and places.”
With over 16K tourism businesses in Scotland, it is the largest employment sector, with 1 in 11 Scottish jobs being in tourism and the visitor economy. Generating £10.8 billion in visitor spend, there is a huge opportunity to drive sustainable economic growth.
As part of the strategic partnership between VisitScotland and STP, the organisation has been an advocate of the Scotland Loves Local Gift Card, through initiatives such as their Spring/ Summer Days out campaign, encouraging visitors and locals alike to make the most of what is on their doorsteps.
Highlighting the power of partnerships, Vicki added: “To deliver a sustainable visitor economy and to build long term prosperity, partnerships are critical, and we are proud to work alongside STP to ensure that national ambitions match up with local actions to the benefit of all. Programmes like the Scotland Loves Local Gift Card have been a great example of how we can make the most of our assets locally, whilst delivering great experiences and value for tourists and locals alike”.
Drawing on on-the-ground expertise and insight, the event welcomed Aileen Crawford, Head of Tourism and Conventions at Glasgow Live, and Roddy Smith, Chief Executive of Essential Edinburgh, Scotland’s largest Business Improvement District, for a fireside chat that explored the future of responsible tourism.
The discussion explored the need for greater collaboration between towns and cities, whilst showcasing the invaluable role that Business Improvement Districts can play in shaping the visitor experience by beating the drum for local businesses and driving local economic growth.
Closing the event, Chief Officer of Scotland’s Towns Partnership Kimberley Guthrie shared her reflections.
She said: “This session brought together forward-thinking leaders who are shaping the future of Scotland’s towns.
“Tourism in Scotland isn’t just about who comes to visit us, but also recognising that it can be a catalyst for place-based growth that aligns with national ambition.
“The input from all our speakers has been invaluable and has reinforced the importance of collaborative working in order to capitalise on the benefits that tourism and the visitor economy can deliver for our local communities and help build a brighter, more sustainable future for our places.”
