Tourism is an economic force for good which benefits every corner
of Scotland, Tourism Minister has told industry leaders.
Addressing Scottish Tourism Month’s Signature Conference in
Aberdeen today, Mr Lochhead praised the hard work and creativity
of businesses across the sector.
Latest statistics show overseas visitors spent a record £1.5
billion in the third quarter of last year. The same quarter also
saw GDP in the tourism sector rise 5.2% in real terms compared to
the same three months in 2022 – outpacing the Scottish economy as
a whole – and the Minister pledged to work with the industry to
create the conditions for continued growth.
Mr Lochhead said:
“The tourism and hospitality sector is vitally important to
Scotland and touches all parts of our country. It is an economic
force for good.
“The sector has faced incredible challenges in recent years but
the passion, dedication and enthusiasm of the workers and
volunteers has enabled it to rebuild and innovate.
"The memorable and world-class experiences on offer in
Scotland would simply not be possible without the people on the
frontline of the tourism and hospitality sector.
“The Scottish Government is committed to working in partnership
with the industry to create the supportive environment needed to
help make Scotland a world leader in 21st century
tourism.”
Background
Scottish Tourism Month is
organised by the Scottish Tourism Alliance and will see more than
4,000 industry employees - and many others who are connected to,
or supply, the sector - attend a variety of events across
Scotland, with more than 20 conferences, trade shows, receptions,
business lunches and awards dinners. The flagship event, the
Signature Conference, is taking place in Aberdeen today and
tomorrow.
