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Campaign urges 'Take 5 for Tourism!'


By Alan Beresford

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VISITSCOTLAND is calling for people across the north-east to support the tourist sector in its "time of need" as lockdown eases further.

It has outlined five simple actions that Scots can take to help restart the visitor economy, including taking a trip, visiting an attraction or experience, shopping locally, dining out and booking a staycation.

The campaign will run on social media and VisitScotland will be urging Scots and the tourism industry to share the message with their friends and customers, encouraging them to #take5fortourism to help inspire others to do their part.

With tourism mainstay of the north-east economy and worth more than £11.5 billion to the Scottish economy, supporting one in 12 jobs, the sector has been devastated by the Covid-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdown and travel restrictions.

While VisitScotland believes that the industry is resilient, it has warned that it will not bounce back over night and the support of the domestic market will be vital for survival over the coming months.

In order to allay concerns regarding public safety, VisitScotland, alongside the national tourism bodies of England, Northern Ireland and Wales, announced a new UK-wide industry standard and consumer mark to provide confidence for visitors, communities and tourism businesses alike, as the sector works towards reopening. Since its launch last month over 4000 businesses have signed up to the We’re Good to Go scheme.

A new visitor charter was also created by the national tourism organisation aimed at encouraging safe and responsible travel around the country. Businesses are currently updating their listings on visitscotland.com with opening information to make it easier for visitors to plan ahead.

Malcolm Roughead, VisitScotland chief executive, said: “Scottish tourism is facing its biggest challenge in a generation and will need financial support for some time to come to help it recover.

"The Scottish public has a crucial part to play in helping this happen. It’s easy to not think of yourself as a tourist in your own country but many of the experiences that we often enjoy with loved ones, such as holidays, shopping or eating out, all contribute to our visitor economy.

“[This] a new era for the industry as we start to welcome back visitors and take our first steps on the road to a safe and responsible recovery. However, reopening won’t be the same for all businesses, many are still adapting to this ‘new normal’, so it’s important that we recognise that as we move forward to try and restore our industry.

“We look forward to helping Scots rediscover their own country in a way that is safe for everyone - visitors, residents and those working within the industry. Recovery will require our collective efforts and we must act as one to ensure the best possible outcomes for the whole of the visitor economy."

The news was welcomed by Vivien Rae, co-chair of the world renowned Scottish Traditional Boat Festival,

She said: “Large scale events and festivals, including the Boat Festival in Portsoy, usually attract thousands of people annually, providing economic benefit to numerous businesses in the local area and indeed across the region. This year of course has been very different, with businesses experiencing the consequences of a lack of tourism and a non-existent events calendar. In return for the support and sponsorship normally displayed by local business communities towards our festivals and events, we can now actively repay that support at a time when it is most needed. We have a fantastic coastal offering in the north east, with a range of attractions, shops, restaurants and cafes to discover and enjoy, and by doing so, actively supporting our local business communities.”

The announcement was also hailed by Moray MP Douglas Ross.

"Its great that our tourism sector can finally get up and running again. The pandemic has hit tourist businesses really hard and it’s been extremely difficult for everyone, particularly those who rely on seasonal trade.

"I know that everyone will be keen to get out and about now restrictions have been eased and we can all help give our local tourism sector a boost, whether that’s by supporting a local businesses or restaurant, or enjoying an afternoon tea with the family or visiting a local attraction, these choices will help support our businesses here in Moray and across the country at this crucial time.

"I know a lot of people will also be planning a staycation now the summer holidays are here, and given we have some of the most fantastic scenery and facilities here in Moray, I can't think of anywhere better!

“I’m planning to take a few days off myself when parliament is not sitting in August and as a family, we’re all looking forward to trips out and about in Moray supporting local businesses and enjoying the delights we have on offer right here on our doorstep."

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