The Scottish Tourism Alliance (STA), which represents all sectors within Scotland’s tourism industry, has shared its policy asks at the industry’s flagship event to mark Scottish Tourism Month, held at the P&J Live in Aberdeen today.
‘Our Industry Manifesto to Support Scotland in Becoming a World Leader in 21st Century Tourism’ is a response to the unprecedented challenges faced by the tourism and hospitality sector in recent years, presented by both the global pandemic within the UK – from government policy, rising energy costs, economic conditions and the cost-of-living crisis.
But, say the STA, “the sector remains resilient in overcoming these obstacles”. The organisation’s Policy Agenda highlights the spirit and resilience of Scotland’s tourism and hospitality sector, emphasising its vital role in the Scottish and wider UK economy and reflects the vision at the heart of Scotland’s Tourism Strategy, Scotland Outlook 2030, that Scotland will be a leader in 21st century tourism.
Marc Crothall, CEO of the Scottish Tourism Alliance said, “The STA’s Policy Agenda is a strategic framework aimed at inspiring collective action among stakeholders within governments, public bodies and private enterprise.”
“Its publication comes at a crucial juncture for our industry and serves as a clarion call to action for policy and decision-makers to work more closely with the tourism and hospitality sector in not only mitigating the challenges ahead, but in seizing the opportunities which will enable Scotland to unlock its potential as a world leader in 21st-century tourism.”
“Our destination organisations have a crucial role to play in promoting and managing tourism across on the ground to deliver Scotland Outlook 2023 and at the moment, are working within a particularly challenging climate in relation to funding.”
“The STA Policy Agenda is very much an appeal to foster an enabling environment to realise the sector’s strength of ambition and drive economic prosperity whilst upholding Scotland’s distinct heritage, environmental assets, vibrant communities and skilled and passionate workforce.”
“It outlines key priorities such as investing in infrastructure and digital capabilities, promoting sustainable practices, dispersing tourism activity across the country and improving accessibility for all visitors.”
“We also recognise that Scotland’s tourism industry is only as strong as its workforce which is why our Policy Agenda places a strong focus on developing and supporting a skilled and sustainable tourism workforce through fair employment practices, investing in training and development programmes and encouraging diversity and inclusivity within the sector.”
“It is in the best interests of governments on both sides of the border to ensure the continuing success of Scottish tourism and hospitality can be held up to the world.”
The Policy Agenda publication has been developed by the STA’s Policy Working Group in close consultation with its Member Council, Destination Forum and Board members.
Key Highlights of the Scottish Tourism Alliance’s Policy Agenda Include:
- Robust Recovery Focus: The manifesto details the sector’s survival through the pandemic, its challenges in relation to Brexit and the significant financial stress which the sector continues to face, showcasing a roadmap for a dynamic and sustainable recovery.
- A Vision for the Future: With a forward-looking stance, the STA’s manifesto aligns with the national tourism strategy, Scotland Outlook 2030, setting ambitious goals to position Scotland as a frontrunner in global tourism as we move towards 2030, supported by the valuable role of destination organisations in helping realise this ambition across our local communities.
- Strategic Policy Asks: The STA calls upon future Scottish and UK Governments to ensure a policy and regulatory landscape that minimises regulation burdens, supports economic growth and fosters transparent, collaborative policymaking.
- Economic and Societal Contributions: Highlighting the sector’s role as an economic powerhouse and force for good, the Policy Agenda underscores how a thriving tourism and hospitality industry benefits not just the economy but communities, heritage, culture and the environment.
The full Policy Agenda document is available to view and download at https://scottishtourismalliance.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/STA-Policy-Agenda-2024-2028-March-2024-Publication.pdf
As featured in:
