STA sets out three key economic asks for Scottish Government ahead of SNP Conference
Champion, Connect and Invest
As the SNP prepares for its annual conference in Aberdeen, the Scottish Tourism Alliance (STA), which represents more than 250 trade associations, destination groups and businesses, has set out the key priorities and policy actions it hopes to see reflected in political debate and future party manifestos.
The STA is calling on all parties to recognise the economic and social value of tourism, a sector worth nearly £17 billion which supports one in twelve Scottish jobs, and to commit to creating a more supportive policy environment that safeguards competitiveness and drives sustainable growth.
The organisation’s Holyrood 2026 Manifesto centres on three economic asks for the next Parliament:
– Champion Scotland – give tourism a clear voice in government, deliver supportive policy and long-term investment in VisitScotland, EventScotland and Destination Management Organisations.
– Connect Scotland – invest in modern, sustainable transport and digital infrastructure to enhance connectivity for visitors, residents and the workforce.
– Invest in Jobs & Growth for Scotland – empower the sector to drive economic growth through skills development, affordable housing, innovation and destination marketing.
Marc Crothall, Chief Executive of the STA, said: “Scotland’s visitor economy underpins jobs, businesses and communities in every part of the country, yet rising costs, declining domestic trips and increasing global competition mean we cannot take our success for granted.
“As ministers and party delegates gather in Aberdeen, we’ll be listening for clear commitments that align with the shared vision set out in Scotland Outlook 2030 – to be the world leader in 21st-century tourism. Delivering that vision depends on the right policy and regulatory environment to enable our people, places, businesses and experiences to thrive.
“We want to see all parties place tourism at the heart of their election manifestos and commit to investing in and sustaining one of Scotland’s greatest economic, cultural and social assets.”
Marc Crothall will attend the joint UKHospitality and Scotch Whisky Association reception on Sunday evening, hosted by Richard Lochead MSP, Minister for Business and Employment and the Business Breakfast on Monday morning at the SNP Conference in Aberdeen. Both events will provide opportunities to engage with ministers, MSPs and industry leaders, reinforcing the STA’s key messages around partnership working and the need for supportive policy to secure the sector’s long-term growth.
