Cairngorms is re-Connecting with the world
With VisitScotland Connect showcasing regional tourism again, tourism businesses in the Highlands are being encouraged to register for a major event aimed at bringing more visitors to Scotland.
Connect is the national tourism organisation’s flagship travel trade event, connecting Scottish businesses with international tour operators and travel advisors.
It’s returning to Aberdeen on April 17-18 2024 and eligible businesses are being invited to now register their attendance.
The event is open to Scottish tourism businesses that are offering a tourism product that can be contracted at trade rates and based in Scotland or have a Scottish office.
They will also need to have staff experienced in working with UK and international trade buyers, and have a listing on VisitScotland’s travel trade website.
Held for the first time in April 2023, the event aims to grow Scotland’s share of global travel in a sustainable way. Tour operators and travel buyers meet with local tourism businesses and attractions, in person, under one roof.
Mark Tate, chief executive officer of VisitCairngorms, said: “VisitScotland Connect gives us the opportunity to promote the excellent year-round travel trade ready product we have across the Cairngorms National Park through our DMO (destination marketing) brand, VisitCairngorms.
“It is focused and professional and in 2023 we had a full duty of engaged buyers from around the world giving us some excellent results.”
More than half of international visitors plan and book their travel through the travel trade.
International visitors stay longer and spend more in local communities in every part of Scotland. International visitors account for approximately a fifth of total inbound visits but account for nearly half of total spending.
Chris Taylor, VisitScotland destination development director, said: “After the success of VisitScotland Connect 2023 and positive feedback from both buyers and suppliers, we are thrilled to be returning next year to P&J Live, the most sustainable venue of its type in the UK.
“I would encourage any trade-ready tourism businesses in the Highlands to register for the event, which offers a targeted opportunity to connect them with the travel trade, helping to generate sales and new business opportunities.
“Since the pandemic, more consumers have been using tour operators and travel agents to plan and book, due to the extra reassurance and guidance they offer.”
2023 was the first time the national tourism organisation ran a workshop style event, offering a more targeted opportunity to conduct 1-2-1 meetings between trade-ready Scottish suppliers and international buyers.
Register now
