Scottish Tourism Alliance responds to First Minister’s announcement on continued easing of restrictions

Marc Crothall, Chief Executive of the Scottish Tourism Alliance said:

“The STA welcomes the First Minister’s announcement this afternoon; this is continued progress for our industry towards a more normal trading environment relative to what our sector has experienced over the course of the pandemic, particularly the removal of the 1 metre physical distancing requirement which I know will be a huge leap forward for so many businesses which have continued to be severely impacted by restrictions in terms of capacity.

Further clarity around the definition of ‘high risk venues’ which may require Covid certification will need to be given over the coming days; it’s also hugely important that the legal requirement for wearing masks is placed on the consumer and not just the venue to enable businesses to maintain compliance and trade effectively without jeopardising licenses.  I know that all sectors will be doing their utmost to build public confidence around safety as we progress beyond level 0.

This is very much the news that our industry has been hopeful to receive for some time and comes with a few weeks of the summer season left to perhaps recoup some lost earnings and get businesses into better shape for the next few months as we move into the shoulder season.

It is however important to highlight that with so many trading weeks lost and the requirement for debt to be repaid, the need for support for tourism and hospitality businesses cannot be overlooked; it will indeed be some time before businesses can become financially sustainable although today’s news marks that huge step forwards after the most difficult period for Scotland’s tourism industry.”