Why invest in Scotland's tourism industry?

As a modern, ambitious country with a rich heritage, Scotland holds a special appeal for millions of tourists from across the globe.

An abundance of natural resources, a commitment to customer service and a thirst for innovation provide significant opportunities for growth and the industry will continue to play a vital role in Scotland’s economy.

Scotland is an extremely competitive location and excellent investment option for high quality tourism developments.

Clyde Waterfront

Why does Scotland offer such an excellent return on investment?

Sustained growth

When it comes to tourism development, Scotland sets the pace. Many prestigious brands such as Hilton, Fairmont, De Vere, Malmaison, Marriott and Radisson have chosen to invest and take advantage of the innovative environment that supports their business.

As a result of these investments, the tourism industry in Scotland has demonstrated consistent and sustained growth and currently contributes £5.2 billion annually to the economy.

While new tourism projects are planned or in progress, demand currently outstrips supply and further developments are required to maintain the consistent pace.

Satisfied customers

  • The Visitor Experience 2008 survey found that 99 percent of those interviewed were satisfied with their recent holiday in Scotland and 73 percent were very likely to recommend Scotland as a holiday destination. Positively, over four fifths of international and nearly all UK visitors are likely to holiday again in Scotland, an increase on the previous year’s survey
  • In 2009 around 15 million tourists took overnight trips to Scotland - their annual expenditure was over £5.2 billion

Consistent profits

  • Repeat visitor rates are high, with regular visitors averaging at least six visits over a 10 year period 
  • The UK accounts for 83 percent of tourism trips to Scotland (2009) 
  • Overseas tourism accounts for 17 percent of tourism trips to Scotland, an increase from 14 percent in 2005 
  • Overseas tourists account for 32 percent of tourism spend 
  • The US is our biggest overseas market, accounting for 14 percent of overseas trips 
  • France, Germany and Republic of Ireland are the next three biggest markets for Scottish tourism

High spending tourists

  • Overseas tourists stay an average of 7.8 nights 
  • English tourists stay an average of four nights 
  • Scottish tourists stay an average of 3.3 nights 
  • Average spend per night is £64 for overseas tourists, £73 for English tourists and £48 for Scottish tourists

(Source: Visit Scotland)

Specific investment opportunities