Regional Gathering – Inverness “Adapting and Thriving Amidst Regulation, Tourism Trends and Economic Pressures”
With special thanks to our Event Sponsors:
Join us for the next ASSC Regional Gathering in Inverness: “Adapting and Thriving Amidst Regulation, Tourism Trends and Economic Pressures”
Date: Wednesday, 14th May 2025
Time: 1:30 pm – 5:00 pm
Location: Kingsmills Hotel, Inverness
Programme: Full event guide here
Tickets: Secure your spot here! ASSC Members can attend for free using the exclusive member promo code (available here). Non-members are warmly invited to join for a small fee.
Are you a self-catering operator, industry professional, or associated business in Scotland’s tourism sector? Don’t miss the next ASSC Regional Gathering in Inverness – an afternoon of networking, engaging discussions, and industry-focused exhibitors tailored specifically for self-catering businesses.
Hosted by Fiona Campbell, Chief Executive of the Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers (ASSC), this gathering will bring together key voices in the industry to discuss pressing challenges, explore new opportunities, and shape the future of Scotland’s self-catering landscape.
What to Expect:
✔️ Networking Opportunities – Connect with fellow self-catering operators, industry experts, and ASSC partners.
✔️ Exhibitor Showcase – Explore a range of exhibitors providing services and solutions tailored to self-catering businesses.
✔️ Expert-Led Discussions & Presentations – Gain valuable insights from industry leaders on key issues and opportunities impacting Scotland’s self-catering sector.
Key Sessions:
Panel Discussion: Tourism Tax & Red Tape – Is Scotland Losing Its Competitive Edge?
Scotland’s tourism industry is facing mounting regulations, including Short-Term Let Licensing and the impending Visitor Levy. But are these measures making the industry fairer- or putting Scotland at a competitive disadvantage?
Join an engaging discussion led by Fiona Campbell, Chief Executive of the ASSC, featuring a panel of policymakers, business leaders, and tourism stakeholders as they tackle key questions:
- Is Scotland moving too fast with new regulations?
- Are self-catering businesses struggling under increasing costs and administrative burdens?
- Could over-regulation drive tourists to other destinations in the UK?
- What is the best path forward for a sustainable and competitive tourism industry?
This session will provide practical insights, diverse perspectives, and actionable recommendations for shaping Scotland’s tourism policies.
Regional Update: Chris Taylor, VisitScotland Destination Development Director – Highlands and Islands
Get the latest updates on tourism trends, opportunities, and plans for the Highlands and Islands region from a key industry leader.
Panel Discussion: Beyond the Stay – The Growing Role of Experiential Tourism in Self-Catering Stays
How can self-catering operators enhance visitor experiences beyond providing accommodation? This panel will explore the power of experiential tourism and the role of collaboration with sectors such as:
✔️ Food & Drink – Partnering with local producers to offer unique culinary experiences.
✔️ Wildlife & Adventure – Promoting outdoor activities and eco-tourism opportunities.
✔️ Visitor Attractions – Creating seamless guest experiences with nearby attractions.
✔️ Agritourism – Leveraging Scotland’s rich farming heritage to enhance stays.
ASSC’s Inverness Community Charity: Supporting SurfABLE Scotland
As part of our commitment to giving back to local communities, the ASSC is proud to support SurfABLE Scotland at our Inverness event.
Based along the Moray Firth, SurfABLE Scotland is the first organisation of its kind in Scotland—and the most northerly adaptive surf school in the world. They are dedicated to breaking down the barriers that prevent individuals with disabilities from accessing the joy of surfing.
At the heart of their mission is a deep commitment to the neurodiverse community and those marginalised by physical or neurological conditions. Through inclusive surf therapy, they ensure that everyone – regardless of ability – can experience the freedom, confidence, and therapeutic benefits of surfing. Beyond the waves, their work challenges societal obstacles, fostering a world where inclusivity isn’t just an ideal, but a reality.
We invite all delegates attending the event to support this incredible charity. Donations can be made in person—so feel free to bring cash—or directly through their website. Every contribution helps SurfABLE Scotland continue their life-changing work!
Kingsmills Hotel has partnered with ASSC Partner, Green Tourism to help them achieve the best environmental practices. For more information, please see here: Green Tourism in Inverness, Scotland | Kingsmills Hotel
