A quote from ASSC, CEO, Fiona Campbell:
“We are absolutely thrilled and honoured to sponsor the 2023 Highlands and Islands Thistle Awards. We firmly believe in championing businesses that create a genuine impact, and HITA’s self-catering operators truly embody that spirit. Their dedication to the region and remarkable contributions to the Scottish tourism sector and economy are truly commendable.”
HITA 2023 Shortlist: Best Self-Catering Accommodation Experience
Why do we believe the HITA awards are significant for both the industry and the region?
The Highlands and Islands Thistle Awards hold great significance for both the tourism industry and the region as a whole. This prestigious event serves as a platform to honour and acknowledge the outstanding achievements within Scotland’s tourism sector. Particularly in times of adversity, it is vital to celebrate, inspire, and motivate individuals and businesses across every corner of Scotland. To ensure long-term-term sustainability of the Highlands and Islands as a tourism destination, it is vital that as an industry we continue to support businesses and celebrate success. Awards such as the Thistle Awards foster healthy competition and encourage high quality, responsible and sustainable practices among businesses operating in the region.
What motivated us to sponsor the awards?
The ASSC were motivated to sponsor the Awards due to the significant impact of self-catering operators in the Highlands and Islands, as well as their substantial contribution to the Scottish economy. With thousands of self-catering operators in the region, they play a vital role in supporting rural communities, boosting fragile economies, and creating employment opportunities. Recognising and celebrating these businesses is crucial to highlight their remarkable contributions. The current state of the tourism sector in Scotland demands unwavering support, and membership organisations like the ASSC play a pivotal role in providing guidance, assistance, and inspiration to businesses within this incredible sector. By sponsoring the Awards, we aim to show our commitment to supporting and promoting the tourism industry, which offers amazing holiday experiences to visitors from all over the world.
What is our vision for the future of the industry?
Our vision for the future of the tourism industry in Scotland is to see it thrive as a sustainable and responsible sector that is deeply rooted in local communities from the Highlands and Islands to the cities and lowlands. A sector that continually delivers and is globally recognised for exceptional experiences where visitors are constantly reminded of the warm hospitality, cultural encounters, natural wonders.