Working together for Caithness tourism

12th November 2011

Tourism experts from across Scotland are coming together this week in the first of a series of events taking place before the end of the year looking at how working together improves visitor experiences and business growth.

The chairman of VisitScotland, Dr Mike Cantlay will host 'Making things happen for Tourism' in Wick on Friday. Instigated by the Federation of Small Business (FSB) it provides an opportunity to discuss the local scene and how to make best use of VisitScotland marketing tools.

Hot on the heels of this event, Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) which leads the Ambitious for Tourism Caithness and North Sutherland (ATCNS) programme, will be hosting four sessions across the area:
14th Nov at the Blue Door Café, Thurso Campsite 2-5pm;
15th Nov Helmsdale Timespan 2-5pm;
16th Nov Mackays Hotel Wick 2-5pm and
18th Nov Skerray Village Hall 2-5pm.

These sessions will bring together a range of tourism providers and experts involved in the ATCNS programme, which as well as businesses include The Highland Council, Caithness Chamber of Commerce, North Highland Tourism and the FSB. They explore how to make the most of tourism opportunities.

HIE's Rachel Skene is Head of Tourism for Caithness and Sutherland. She commented: "Local businesses working alone can provide good visitor experiences. However, by working together the same businesses and their communities can create great destinations, where everyone can benefit. Hotels, activity providers, visitor attractions and community groups all play an important role in ensuring tourism is a positive part of the local and regional economy.

"HIE is keen to encourage providers to work together as much as possible. Momentum will be maintained through November and December, with further development sessions on activity tourism development; cultural and creative development tourism and hospitality, food and drink."

Everyone involved in local level initiatives and in the focus sessions will be linked into other businesses, organisations and groups across the area. Ideas and views will contribute to shaping a programme of destination development activity over 2012.

For more details on Highlands and Islands Enterprise Ambitious for Tourism Caithness and North Sutherland -: http://www.hie.co.uk/highlands-and-islands/economic-reports-and-research/ or please contact Rachel.skene[AT]hient.co.uk