Tourism in Scotland: the economic contribution of the sector

Foreword from the Chair of the Tourism Leadership Group

One of Andy Goldsworthy’s Striding Arches on Bail Hill, Dumfries and Galloway

Castle Stalker, situated on an islet on Loch Laich (part of Loch Linnhe), Appin, Argyll

Tourism is acknowledged by the Scottish Government as being central to the success of the Scottish Economy.

The Tourism Leadership Group ( TLG), a partnership of industry and public sector representatives, is responsible for shaping and reviewing Scotland’s national tourism strategy “Tourism Scotland 2020”; determining the key priorities; overseeing its delivery; monitoring and reporting on the outcomes.

We actively seek supportive change at policy level to enable our tourism industry to reach its growth ambition and perform as Scotland’s main economic driver.

Our mission is to help shape the right conditions for growth and profitability for the tourism sector and raise the profile and importance of tourism in Scotland.

Our vision is to lead an engaged and united tourism industry, delivering an ambitious shared strategy for growth for 2020 and beyond.

This paper presents the strength and driving force tourism delivers to the Scottish Economy. The clear benefits are shown in the contribution the industry returns to the economy; its contribution to sustainability of communities both rural and urban through the employment opportunities it provides; cultural and heritage preservation and the opportunities tourism provides for international inward investment, exports, skills training and job opportunities.

Our thanks go to the staff of the Scottish Government, VisitScotland and Scottish Enterprise who provided the research and support in the production of this publication.

Stephen Leckie
Chair, Tourism Leadership
Group & Scottish Tourism Alliance