Local businesses urged to join industry event

Issued by VisitScotland

Local tourism businesses are being urged to attend a free industry event to be held at the National Park Headquarters in Balloch.

The event, that will be attended by National Park partners, will take place on Thursday 16 February between 10am and 1pm. It will offer tourism businesses a chance to explore the major developments that should make 2012 a landmark year for tourism businesses across the country.

VisitScotland regional director David Adams McGilp will talk about ways businesses might seize the opportunities that come with the Year of Creative Scotland 2012, the marketing power of Disney/Pixar behind their new Brave movie and the Olympics at the height of this summer.

Mairi Bell, Tourism Manager at Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, will give an update on work to develop tourism in the Park.

Businesses also have an opportunity to hear from VisitScotland’s Digital & Media team who will unveil exciting changes to VisitScotland.com that will help both visitors and businesses get more out of the website.

There will also be discussion about the changes to tourism ‘Oscars’ - The Scottish Thistle Awards - which are currently open for entries and this will be followed by a free networking lunch.

David Adams McGilp, regional director for VisitScotland, said;

“This event is an excellent opportunity for local businesses to meet and discuss opportunities to work together throughout this Year of Creative Scotland which gives the country an excellent platform from which to sell themselves. With so much focus on Scotland this year we hope that businesses will make the most of this free networking opportunity to meet, collaborate and sell Loch Lomond & the Trossachs and Dunbartonshire to the world.”

Fiona Logan, CEO of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, said;

“Tourism is hugely important for the National Park, providing a third of all employment in area. We are committed to improving the rural economy and making sure our local businesses and communities continue to thrive. This event provides an opportunity to network, focus on ideas to promote the sector and share plans to help grow business. “

Further information