Scotland is poised to take a significant leap forward in its bid to become a major player in the global tourism market, with the launch of VisitScotland Connect 2025, a major trade event aimed at boosting Scotland’s share of global tourism in a sustainable way.

Connecting Businesses and Buyers

At the heart of the event is a platform for more than 240 ‘trade-ready’ businesses from across the country to connect with over 250 buyers representing 20 countries. These businesses will have the opportunity to showcase new destinations, experiences and products, allowing them to be featured in travel itineraries that are sold worldwide.

• Accommodation providers
• Experience specialists
• Attractions

These businesses will have the chance to meet face-to-face with potential buyers, share their unique selling points, and demonstrate how their products or services can contribute to the overall tourism experience.

East Lothian Businesses Make Debut

Several East Lothian businesses will be attending the event for the first time, including Archerfield Walled Garden, Belhaven Brewery, BlueWild Nature Boat Tours, Carfrae Farm, Papple Steading, The Leddie, Wild Cairns, and The Yarrow Cookery School. Also attending are Visit East Lothian, Scottish Seabird Centre, and Carberry Tower Mansion House and Estate.

Sustainability Focus

VisitScotland Connect is part of the national tourism organisation’s strategy to help Scottish businesses broaden their reach and sell their experiences in international markets. The event places a strong emphasis on sustainability, highlighting products and experiences that are environmentally friendly and responsible.

Meet the Exhibitors

Scott Smith, director of Wild Cairns, based at Whitekirk Hill, is one of the many exhibitors who will be attending the event. Smith said: “As this is our first time attending VisitScotland Connect, we’re genuinely excited about the opportunity to meet businesses who can help bring international visitors to experience Wild Cairns. “Our meeting schedule is full. We’ll be speaking with 17 different businesses on the day.”

Fam Trips and Product Showcase

In addition to the trade event in Aberdeen, participants will also embark on a specially curated programme of 13 ‘fam trips’, showcasing the best of Scotland’s tourism offering across 21 regions. These trips will involve about 130 businesses and highlight products with a strong emphasis on sustainability. blockquote>
“The fam trips are an excellent opportunity for travel trade representatives to experience first-hand everything from local culture, food and drink to luxury and outdoor adventures and wildlife. They’ll be able to see firsthand the products and services that we offer, and get a real feel for the type of experience that we can provide. It’s going to be a fantastic opportunity for us to showcase Scotland’s tourism offering in a unique and memorable way.”
– Neil Christison, VisitScotland regional director

A Key Strategy for Scotland’s Tourism

Neil Christison, VisitScotland regional director, said: “VisitScotland Connect is part of our wider plan to support tourism and events. It presents an important opportunity for tourism businesses to meet face-to-face with global tour operators and travel agents to showcase the amazing visitor offering this region has, which enhances the economic growth of tourism and events.”

Conclusion

Scotland is poised to take a significant leap forward in its bid to become a major player in the global tourism market, with the launch of VisitScotland Connect 2025. The event provides a unique opportunity for businesses to connect with buyers, showcase their products and services, and contribute to the overall tourism experience. With a strong focus on sustainability, VisitScotland Connect 2025 is set to play a key role in Scotland’s tourism strategy for years to come.