Scottish Tourism Alliance

Scottish Food & Drink Fortnight
2023-09-02 08:00 - 2023-09-16 17:00 (Europe/London)
Supporting & promoting Scotland’s produce, the people who grow it, make it and sell it.
Every September, Scottish Food & Drink Fortnight celebrates the people, products and places that are championing our industry.
Producers, manufacturers, retailers, foodservice, hospitality, regional food groups and ambassadors. It is time to celebrate the work you do day in, day out to get quality Scottish food and drink on our tables.
Discover what’s on your doorstep
Our nation’s larder is one of the most diverse in the world, and although we don’t mean to, it’s easy to forget that the products we enjoy day-to-day, or during special occasions, are brought to us by hardworking people operating right under our noses.
This year we’re focusing all of our efforts into encouraging the country to discover the incredible produce from their regions and the businesses across Scotland that are stocked in everywhere from shops, restaurants, cafes and bars to delis and markets.
The gin you enjoy on a Friday evening. The fruits you savour on a summer’s day. The beef and roasted potatoes you share with family on a Sunday afternoon. This year’s Scottish Food & Drink Fortnight is all about celebrating the people across our industry’s supply chain that make all that possible.

Scotland Food & Drink Excellence Awards 2023
2023-09-07
Celebrating the best of Scotland’s exceptional food and drink scene, The Excellence Awards shine a light on the incredible businesses that call this unique country their home. For over 22 years, this event has brought together the finest Scottish producers with key influencers and decision makers across the sector. Underpinned by people, passion, and perseverance, it is an opportunity to toast to our industry’s fantastic achievements of the past year, whilst looking to the future and supporting the next wave of innovation and creativity.
The Awards explore specialist taste categories for quality food and drink, alongside business categories championing noteworthy, tenacious organisations. Our expert judging panel, made up of key buyers, influencers, and chefs, work to reward and reflect on the hard work and determination behind each entry. From brand new start-ups to industry giants, these awards are for you.
Of course, with a room full of foodies, the night itself includes the opportunity to try out some of Scotland’s best produce. We can’t wait to take you with us once again as we experience a true taste of excellence.
Entries for this year’s Excellence Awards are now open, enter now!

Fostering Inclusive Employment Opportunities: International Best Practice from India and Scotland
2023-09-18 09:30 - 14:00 | Glasgow Kelvin College, 123 Flemington Street, Glasgow, G21 4TD, United Kingdom
Join us at Glasgow Kelvin College, 123 Flemington Street, Glasgow, G21 4TD on Monday September 18th at 9.30am . This event will showcase international best practices in fostering inclusive employment opportunities.
The College’s partners from India, Lemon Tree Hotels and Muskaan, will share their unique approach to training and employing people with additional support needs. Scottish partners will share their own insights and success stories. The ultimate aim of the event is to secure support from employers, partners and government to create inclusive work environments that value diversity and empowers individuals with additional support needs. Whether you’re an employer, partner or support agency, this event offers a unique opportunity to gain valuable knowledge from both India and Scotland.
Parking is very limited at the College but there is a regular train service to Springburn Station and several buses from Glasgow stop close to the College.

Aberdeen City and Shire Thistle Awards
2023-09-22 | The Chester Hotel, 59-63 Queen's Rd, Aberdeen, AB15 4YP, United Kingdom
Entries are now open for the 2023 Aberdeen City and Shire Thistle Awards. This year’s awards, organised by a volunteer committee of tourism professionals, will include four new categories; Celebrating Thriving Communities, Inclusive Tourism, Climate Action and Tourism, and Hospitality Employer of the Year.
The eleventh annual Aberdeen City and Shire Thistle Awards take place at The Chester Hotel in Aberdeen on Friday September 22 2023 and aim to recognise and reward excellence across the industry. All our winners progress automatically to the Scottish Thistle Awards National Final.
Whether you’re a large hotel or a small guest house; an upmarket restaurant or a casual coffee shop; front of house or behind the scenes; a manager driving up standards or a taxi operator driving visitors, there’s an ACSTA category just for you.

DYW Ayrshire Skills Conference
2023-10-03 09:00 - 12:30 | Ayrshire College, Hill Street, Kilmarnock, KA1 3HY
The Developing the Young Workforce (DYW) Conference will be taking place on Tuesday 3rd October, 9am to 12:30pm, at the Ayrshire College Campus in Kilmarnock.
The event, which is free to attend, will give local employers the opportunity to hear about the support available to upskill their current and future workforce whilst also giving a platform to allow them to speak about the challenges in recruiting in their sector and help to identify any gaps that the partnerships can address.
It will focus on three sectors; Build Environment, Engineering and the Visitor Economy.
Find out more and register here.

Walk for wellbeing, Glasgow
2023-10-08 | Strathclyde Park, United Kingdom
Registration is open for the 2023 Walk for Wellbeing which invites the tourism and hospitality industry to put on their walking shoes and join Hospitality Action to take strides towards promoting better wellbeing for all whilst raising funds to support its vital walk.
The wellbeing of the people of hospitality demands our collective attention. Currently over half of those contacting Hospitality Action for support directly reference mental health issues. The overwhelming majority are also struggling with household debts, with many facing the threat of court action or eviction. Nearly half are working in front-facing roles, including bar staff, waiting teams and baristas.
Since the start of 2020, Hospitality Action have helped more people than ever, answering 26,809 helpline calls and delivering 6,753 face-to-face and over-the-phone counselling sessions. But there is still so much more to do.
STA Patrons, DAM, will again host the 20km walk in Glasgow on Sunday 8th October 2023 – a fun, flexible event in Strathclyde Park.
Can’t make the day? Between Saturday 30th September and Sunday 15th October, encompassing World Mental Health Day on Tuesday 10 October, you can Walk It Your Way – Your Location. Find out more here.
Find out more and register here.

Zero Waste Scotland: Reduce food waste, increase profits
2023-10-10 10:30 - 11:30 | Online, United Kingdom
Are you a hospitality business that’s keen to cut food waste, but unsure where to start?
The scale of food waste is staggering. The equivalent of one in every six meals served by settings in Scotland is thrown away, costing the Scottish hospitality industry a whopping £10,000 per venue per year.
Join Zero Waster Scotland on Tuesday 10 October to hear from Gerry Boyle, Hospitality Partner at Zero Waste Scotland, who will outline a newly launched four-week challenge to help you measure your current food waste, and develop an action plan to make reductions and grow profits.
During the webinar we will cover:
The impact of food waste on the food service sector and the environment
Financial benefits of food waste reduction
Tools and interventions to reduce waste
Additional support available from Zero Waste Scotland
Tackling food waste is one of the easiest things we can all do for the environment…when we know how.

Brexit and the Challenges Facing Scotland's Hospitality & Culture Sectors
2023-10-21 10:30 - 14:00 | Strathclyde University Business School
Brexit and the challenges facing Scotland’s hospitality and cultural sectors – workshop and reception.
A chance the hospitality, tourism, culture and the creative industries to send clear messages to politicians about what reforms are needed to Brexit .
Saturday 21st October at Strathclyde University Business School, 199 Cathedral St, Glasgow
Doors: 10.30am – ends 2pm.
The distinguished journalist and broadcaster, Alf Young, will chair this very important event.
Speakers include:

Katrina Brown, a director of The Common Guild, the Glasgow-based visual arts organisation,
Claire Moran, senior producer at the international audio arts company, Cryptic,
Baillie Annette Christie, Chair Glasgow Life and City Convener for Culture,
Leon Thompson, Executive Director, Scotland, Hospitality UK
Marc Crothall , Chief Executive, Scottish Tourism Alliance.
Emma Congreve is a Senior Knowledge Exchange Fellow and Deputy Director at the Fraser of Allander Institute at the University of Strathclyde

A panel discussion with audience Q&As will follow individual contributions.
Entry is free and by ticket only. Numbers are strictly limited, so please book early.
Hospitality and culture are cornerstones of the Scottish economy. Leaving the EU has made life more complex, expensive and challenging for businesses, cultural organisations and individuals.
If you run a business or work in hospitality, music, theatre, sports management, tourism, events, exhibitions, conferences and allied fields this workshop is for you.
Join leading figures from the hospitality, culture and tourism sectors in discussing what needs to be done and how to persuade the political decision makers that reform of the agreement between the UK and EU is urgent.
Our aim is to provide a platform for these sectors to say what they want from governments (particularly the UK government) in areas like EU work permits, employing EU citizens, traveller bureaucracy and so on. With a general election imminent and growing appreciation that the UK needs to reset relations with the EU, EMiS wants to contribute to creating greater public awareness of the issues facing the Scottish tourism, hospitality and culture sectors. The aim is to influence policy makers in London, Brussels and Edinburgh.
The purpose of the event is not “Brexit bashing”: but a grown-up analysis and debate around the issues any new government must address to help keep these sectors healthy, profitable and globally competitive.
This event is promoted by Glasgow Loves EU and the European Movement in Scotland.
Entry is free and by ticket only. Numbers are strictly limited, so please book early.

Highlands & Islands Food & Drink Awards
2023-10-27 | The Kingsmills Hotel, Inverness, Culcabock Rd, Inverness, IV2 3LP, United Kingdom
The 18th Highlands & Islands Food & Drink Awards will take on Friday 27 October 2023 at the Kingsmills Hotel in Inverness.
The Awards showcase and celebrate excellence and achievements in the food and drink industry in the region – from world-renowned businesses to small innovative producers.
If you’re considering entering your business in this year’s Highlands & Islands Food & Drink Awards, but aren’t sure if it’s worth your time and effort, here are just some of the reasons why we think you shouldn’t put it off any longer:
-It costs nothing
-The online entry process is clear and simple
-There is a wealth of interesting categories to suit all businesses big and small
-You can enter as many categories as you feel are relevant, therefore increasing your chances with minimum extra effort

STA AGM & Autumn Conference
2023-10-31 | EICC, The Exchange, 150 Morrison St,, Edinburgh EH3 8EE, EH3 8EE, United Kingdom
The Scottish Tourism Alliance (STA) AGM & Autumn Conference will bring together leading voices and experts from a broad range of sectors for a day packed with speaker presentations, panel sessions and plenty of opportunities to catch up with colleagues and create new connections.
Our carefully curated programme has been designed to support and empower the tourism and hospitality industry, and all those connected to it, to thrive in the present but also well into the future, as we collectively work to deliver on Scotland’s vision to be a leader in 21st century tourism.
Whether you’re a business owner or manager, supplier or aspiring leader, this is an unmissable event, with attendees given access to the latest insights, trends and forecasts for travel and hospitality, the economy, and policy as well as an update on Scotland Outlook 2030, Scotland’s National Tourism Strategy. They will also benefit from invaluable advice and actionable learnings both for tackling challenges and capitalising opportunities that they may be facing in the industry now and in the future.
**Speakers already confirmed** include leading communications practitioner, Cathy MacDonald, Digital Marketing and Technology evangelist Stephen Whitelaw, and Minister for Small Business, Innovation, Tourism and Trade, Richard Lochhead MSP.
This year’s event will also feature an exhibitor hall, with the chance to meet with suppliers and supporters of the industry. For more information on becoming an exhibitor, please email events@stalliance.co.uk.
Members of the Scottish Tourism Alliance are invited to join our annual AGM, which takes place at the EICC prior to the conference. For members who only wish to attend the AGM, please register for an AGM ticket. Please note: the AGM is for STA members only and the AGM ticket does not grant access to the main conference.
PROGRAMME OUTLINE
More information coming soon. Please note, timings are subject to change.

09:15 –10:30hrs: Registration and exhibitor hall opens
10:00 – 10:30hrs: Scottish Tourism Alliance AGM (STA members only). Non-Members are welcome to network and visit the exhibitor hall during this time.
10:40 – 12:45hrs: Session 1
12:45 – 14:15hrs: Lunch, networking and exhibitor hall
14:15 – 16:30hrs: Session 2
16:30 – 17:00hrs: Networking and exhibitor hall

SPONSORSHIP
A select number of sponsorship opportunities are available. For more information, please contact events@stalliance.co.uk.
EXHIBITORS
For more information on becoming an exhibitor, please email events@stalliance.co.uk.

2023 Outer Hebrides Tourism Conference: Cnoc Soilleir, South Uist
2023-11-01 | Cnoc Soilleir, South Uist

Our Tourism Community Conference - Uist and Barra
2023-11-01 09:00 - 17:00 | Cnoc Soilleir Limited, South Uist, Daliburgh, HS8 5SS
Join Outer Hebrides Tourism for their Conference 2023 in South Uist on Wednesday, November 1, 2023, at 09:00am. This exciting event will take place in the new Cnoc Soilleir Building, Daliburgh.
They are delighted to host their first conference in four years, a chance for us all to celebrate our tourism community after a number of difficult years.
We will explore the latest trends and innovations in the tourism industry and discover new strategies to attract visitors, enhance customer experiences, and boost your business. You’ll have the opportunity to network with like-minded individuals and gain valuable insights from successful industry experts and business owners
This year businesses will also have the chance to nominate themselves for the inaugural Our Tourism Community Awards (more to come on this soon!).
Mark your calendar and be prepared for a day filled with inspiration and celebration. Register now to secure your spot at the Uist & Barra Tourism Conference 2023 and be part of the future of tourism.
EARLY BIRD TICKETS AVAILABLE UNTIL 5PM FRIDAY 29 SEPTEMBER 2023
Please get in touch with Eileen at enquiries@outerhebridestourism.org if you need any help.

The STLN Awards
2023-11-02 | The Hilton, Glasgow, 1 William St, Glasgow, G3 8HT, United Kingdom
The SLTN Awards are back on the lookout to find Scotland’s best venues, operators and staff. If you or someone you know should be recognised, don’t delay your submission! Entries are now open via our online entry form.
Businesses can submit entries for up to three of the 23 categories, which fall into four key areas, including; Venue/Operator, People, Speciality Drinks, and Outstanding Individual.
View the award categories and entry questions to prepare your submission or head straight to the entry form here and apply today.

Cairngorms Business Partnership Conference
2023-11-06 | Aviemore, United Kingdom

Our Tourism Community Conference - Lewis and Harris
2023-11-09 09:00 - 17:00 | An Lanntair, Stornoway
Join Outer Hebrides Tourism for their Conference 2023 in Stornoway on Thursday, November 9, 2023, at 09:00am. This exciting event will take place in An Lanntair, Stornoway.
They are delighted to host their first conference in four years, a chance for us all to celebrate our tourism community after a number of difficult years.
We will explore the latest trends and innovations in the tourism industry and discover new strategies to attract visitors, enhance customer experiences, and boost your business. You’ll have the opportunity to network with like-minded individuals and gain valuable insights from successful industry experts and business owners.
This year businesses will also have the chance to nominate themselves for the inaugural Our Tourism Community Awards (more to come on this soon!).
Mark your calendar and be prepared for a day filled with inspiration and celebration. Register now to secure your spot at the Lewis & Harris Tourism Conference 2023 and be part of the future of tourism.
EARLY BIRD TICKETS AVAILABLE UNTIL 5PM FRIDAY 29 SEPTEMBER 2023
Please get in touch with Eileen at enquiries@outerhebridestourism.org if you need any help.

Scottish Thistle Awards 2023
2023-11-10
For almost 30 years, The Scottish Thistle Awards have been recognising and championing the very best of the Scottish tourism, hospitality and events industry. The Awards honour the very best individuals, businesses and partnerships for their innovation, excellence and success.
By winning a Scottish Thistle Award, you join a prestigious roll of honour, earning recognition as one of the best in the country, providing inspiration to peer and supporting tourism growth.
Click here to read more about what’s new for 2023.
The National Final will take place in November 2023 – date yet to be confirmed.

Highlands & Islands Thistle Awards - Climate Seminar
2023-11-10 12:00 - 14:00 | Macdonald Drumossie Hotel, Inverness
Royal Bank of Scotland are headline partners of the Highlands & Islands Thistle Awards, and category sponsors of the Climate Action award. As part of our commitment to leading the climate change discussion, we will host a seminar on the afternoon of the awards to support customers, businesses, and stakeholders in the tourism & leisure sector on their transition to Net Zero.
Many businesses in the tourism & leisure sector across the Highlands & Islands are unaware of the impact that climate change is having on the industry. Join us for this insightful session as we aim to demonstrate the real-life impact of not addressing the climate crisis, as well as highlighting the commercial opportunity in proactive mitigation.
This seminar will feature a keynote session and Q&A from Alison Wood of the Edinburgh Climate Change Institute. The session will also feature local business case studies from those who have participated in the ECCI Climate Springboard Programme.

Scottish Careers Week
2023-11-13 - 2023-11-17
Scottish Careers Week is taking place from 13th to 17th November 2023.
Delivered by Skills Development Scotland (SDS), in partnership with a wide range of local and national partners, Scottish Careers Week will feature events and activities to help people of all ages to explore, understand, and manage their career choices, and the services and resources available to support them.
A toolkit, featuring specific ideas and inspiration for schools, employers and careers practitioners on how to get involved in the week, can be accessed here.

ASVA Annual Conference 2023
2023-11-14 09:30 - 16:30 | Perth Concert Hall, Mill Street, Perth, PH1 5HZ, United Kingdom
We’re thrilled to announce the return of the ASVA Cultural Connections Conference after a three-year hiatus! Join us on Tuesday 14th November at the prestigious Perth Concert Hall.
Cultural Connections will bring together visionary leaders and experts from all over the country within the visitor attractions sector to share their experience with you. The conference will provide attendees with benchmarking and best practices, unparalleled networking opportunities and, of course, the chance to come together to socialise and celebrate at the end of a long season. We’re also delighted to let you know that Cultural Connections sees a new partnership with the Association for Cultural Enterprises (ACE), to provide you with an enhanced programme, making it simply unmissable.

Innovate with Lochaber Ideas Week 2023
2023-11-14 09:45 - 17:00 | Highland Cinema, Cameron Square, Fort William, PH33 6AJ, United Kingdom
Tourism is a major economic driver in many countries, and the success of a tourism destination depends on a number of factors. In this event, we will discuss what makes a tourism destination attractive to visitors, and how to market and promote a destination to attract tourists. Whilst considering the content of the Outdoor Capital Strategy and what it needs to look like for the imminent future.
So what makes a tourism destination?
There are many factors that contribute to the attractiveness of a tourism destination, including:
Natural attractions: These include things like beaches, mountains, forests, and wildlife.
Cultural attractions: These include things like historical sites, museums, and art galleries.
Events and festivals: These can be a great way to attract visitors and generate excitement about a destination.
Amenities and infrastructure: These include things like hotels, restaurants, transportation, and healthcare.
Safety and security: Visitors need to feel safe and secure when they travel, so this is an important factor for any tourism destination.
We will hear from Destination Thought Leaders along with those involved reimagining their own destination in Italy and Ireland.
We understand that businesses want to market and promote our tourism destination and by understanding the factors that make a tourism destination attractive, and by effectively marketing and promoting the destination, we can attract visitors and boost the economy of our region.
In addition to the factors mentioned above, there are a number of other things that can contribute to the attractiveness of a tourism destination, such as:
The local people: Visitors want to feel welcome and appreciated when they travel, so it is important that the local people are friendly and welcoming.
The cost of travel and accommodation: Visitors need to be able to afford to travel to and stay in your destination.
The ease of getting around: Visitors need to be able to get around your destination easily, so it is important to have good transportation infrastructure in place.
By considering all of these factors, you can create a tourism destination that is attractive to visitors from all over the world.
Further information on the day to be announced.
Tickets:
Member tickets are £20 +VAT
Non-Member tickers are £25 +VAT

Shetland Tourism Conference
2023-11-15
TBC

Shetland Tourism Conference
2023-11-15 08:00 - 17:00
The Shetland tourism conference will reflect on the positive season just passed as well as the challenges facing the industry, while thinking ahead to the development of a new tourism strategy for the isles.
The event will provide an opportunity for networking, and to attend the AGM, which will be held immediately after the conference, at which there is an appeal for committee members and office bearers.
Anyone who would like to register for the conference on 15 November should contact  info@shetlandtourismassociation.org

ASSC Regional Get-Together
2023-11-15 15:00 - 18:00 | Ps & Gs Church, Edinburgh, EH1 3HP
The ASSC invites you to their Regional “Get-Together” Event aimed at businesses & organisations involved in the self-catering sector.
Forty-five years ago, a group of inspired individuals came together to promote the vital traditional self-catering sector, and to underpin a commitment to our core principles: quality, integrity, cleanliness, comfort, courtesy and efficiency.
In this very special year for ASSC, join us for an opportunity to meet other members of the short-term let community, to praise and celebrate the resilience, hard work, tenacity, professionalism and dedication of our members and colleagues.
In this, perhaps one of the most challenging years our sector has ever faced, in the wake of a global pandemic, we look forward to a brighter future.
Your support inspires our determination, and we look forward to standing together in the journey ahead.

Date: Wednesday, November 15th, 2023
Time: 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Venue: Ps & Gs Church, Edinburgh, EH1 3HP

Speakers:
Fiona Campbell, CEO ASSC: Regulation Roundup
An opportunity to hear the very latest on Short-Term Let Licensing and Planning Control Areas, and the Scottish Government’s Implementation Review, as well as the review being undertaken by the Regulatory Review Group. In addition, an update on the proposed Visitor Levy, the Second Homes and EPC consultations and other challenges on the horizon.
Louise Dickins, Managing Director, Dickins Edinburgh: Planning Judicial Review
An update from the Petitioners on the status of JR2 judicial review, following the hearing in the Court of Session on 8th November.
Patrick O’Shaughnessy, Industry Manager (Development), VisitScotland: Growing Trends in Tourism and How to Capitalise on Them
Refreshments will be served, generously sponsored by Tunnocks and Tanki.
Despite the ongoing challenges that we face, as an association, our vision is that the ASSC takes the leading role in supporting and promoting a vibrant and prosperous self-catering sector that is recognised as pivotal to the future of Scotland’s Tourism Economy. Our purpose is to empower our diverse and professional membership, enabling them to deliver exceptional experiences to guests. Our focus is on supporting individuals, businesses and communities in the promotion of Scottish self-catering as a sustainable, inclusive and responsible form of accommodation, at the heart of Scotland’s tourism offer.
Our commitment to the self-catering sector remains steadfast, and we are wholeheartedly dedicated to advocating for its future.
Your support inspires our determination, and we look forward to standing together in the journey ahead.
In a challenging industry landscape, collaboration with friends, colleagues and industry professionals is more important than ever. Don’t miss this opportunity to gather together and understand how to navigate the future.
We can’t wait to welcome you!
Be part of the future of Scottish Tourism
Event Pricing

ASSC Members: Attend for FREE as a member benefit.
Non-Members: £25 + ticket fees
Valued Partners: Enjoy complimentary access as part of your partnership benefits.

Join the ASSC Offer
If you decide to become an ASSC member after attending, we’ll discount the £25 attendance fee from your membership (valid for up to 10 days from the event).
You can explore various membership categories at www.assc.co.uk/join-us
Getting There

There is no parking available at the venue
There are excellent public transport links via tram, bus, or train as well as multi-storey carparks within a few minutes walk.

Come and connect with like-minded operators, industry stakeholders, and our dedicated partners who champion your business interests.

Scotland's Trade Fair Spring & Speciality Food Show 2024
2023-11-21 09:30 - 2023-11-23 17:00 | SEC, Exhibition Way, Glasgow, G3 8YW, United Kingdom
Held at the SEC is Scotland’s biggest trade fair!
Taking place from 21 – 23 January 2024, companies exhibit thousands of products to trade buyers from the likes of department stores, online outlets, tourist attractions, farm shops, delis and independent retail stores.
Our exhibitors are gift and food wholesale suppliers from Scotland and other areas of the UK showing a range of products from greetings cards to home interiors to coffee to chocolate.

Orkney Tourism Conference
2023-11-22 | Orkney, United Kingdom
Registration and details for this event will be uploaded shortly.
If you have any questions, please contact: admin@destinationorkney.co.uk

Highland Tourism Conference 2023
2023-11-28 | The Kingsmills Hotel, Inverness, Culcabock Rd, Inverness, IV2 3LP, United Kingdom

BH&HPA Scotland conference
2023-11-30 | Dynamic Earth, United Kingdom

Scotland's Cruise Conference 2023
2023-11-30 13:00 - 17:00 | Royal Concert Hall, Glasgow
What Works for Tourism will be held at the Glasgow Royal Concert Halls on Thursday 30th November 2023 from 1pm to 5pm. The Event will reflect on the record breaking season just concluded and assess what opportunities exist for tourism businesses around Scotland in 2024 and beyond.
Speakers will include Cruise expertise from Europe and in Scotland, and Shore Excursion Leads from Cruise Lines visiting Scotland in 2024. The conference is directed at national tourism organisations, regional networks and major attractions and offerings.
If you are interested in attending, please contact Peter Wilson at CruiseForth – info@cruiseforth.com – Please note that there will also be a workshop event for tourism business in the Glasgow are in the morning of 30th November. Enquiries on this event also to Peter Wilson

Deadline to enter 2024 Orkney Tourism Awards
2023-12-01

South of Scotland Destination Alliance (SSDA) Package Travel & Linked Travel Arrangement Compliance Webinar
2023-12-01 13:00 - 14:00 | Online, United Kingdom
Package Travel & Linked Travel Arrangement Compliance: Join Our Exclusive Webinar on Package Travel Regulations
In a busy tourism industry, staying abreast of regulations can be challenging, do you know if the current regulations affect you, or how proposed changes may open up new opportunities? If you are offering add-on and extras, the regulations may affect you.
That’s why we invite you to an essential webinar on Package Travel & Linked Travel Regulations, featuring insights from industry experts Matt Gatenby, Senior Partner at Travlaw, Erika Miller, Package Travel Lead and Andrew Powell, Package Travel Advisor from the UK Government’s Department for Business & Trade.
Date & Time: Friday 1st December at 13:00hr Book Here: LINK
Why Attend?

Current Regulations Decoded. Explore how these regulations could directly affect your business operations. From booking processes to customer communications.

Insights from Travlaw: Matt Gatenby, a leading authority in travel law, will dissect the proposed changes to the existing regulation.

Government’s Call for Evidence: Get a first-hand account from Andrew Powell and Erika Miller, representing the UK Government’s Department for Business & Trade. Understand the current call for evidence on Package Travel Regulations and learn how your input can shape the future of industry compliance.

BOOK NOW!
What are the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018
The Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018 provide consumers with protections for two types of holiday booking – packages and linked travel arrangements (LTAs). Packages are formed of two or more elements (such as transport and vehicle hire) made under one booking. The Regulations place requirements on package holiday organisers, including that they will be responsible for the performance of all elements that make up the package.
An LTA is formed when a looser connection of travel services is purchased in relation to the same trip. The regulations require businesses to make clear at the time of booking whether an LTA is being purchased and what protections are associated with it. Travellers who purchase LTAs do not benefit from the same rights that they would do if they bought a package. For instance, there is no requirement for any one party (such as the trader that facilitates the LTA) to be liable for the performance of all the travel services that are part of an LTA. This reflects the nature of an LTA as a looser booking of connected services.
The Department for Business and Trade launched a twelve-week Call for Evidence on the Package Travel Regulations 2018 on September 20th 2023, open until 13th December 2023. Please see Press Release and Package Travel Call for Evidence.
The Call for Evidence tests whether existing regulation is proportionate and effective. We are seeking views on the scope of the rules, including whether the same protections should be in place for international and domestic holidays and whether a minimum cost threshold for the rules to apply would make the regulatory burdens more proportionate. We are also seeking feedback on areas where the regime could be clearer, such as by changing the approach to currently named “Linked Travel Arrangements” and how other tourist services form part of a package. Throughout the Call for Evidence, we are inviting views on how the rules have operated across the last five years, particularly through the Covid pandemic. This includes inviting views on whether reforms should be brought forward so the rules can work better for consumers and businesses when there are extreme extenuating circumstances.
Looking forward to engaging with you on this, and if anyone wants to reach out to us outside of the Webinar they can contact us on PackageTravel@businessandtrade.gov.uk
