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the Press Release Index
28th September 2009
Tourism Figures Show Mixed Results
Statistics released by tourism body
VisitScotland have shown an overall decline of 10% in
international visitor trips to Scotland compared to the same
period last year. However trips to Scotland from other
European countries have increased by 11%.
The research also found that business
travellers had cut travel costs by 60% through the use of
teleconfrencing facilities.
Commenting on the news, Tory MSP Alex
Johnstone said "Consumer confidence in the United States has
had a serious impact on visitor numbers from outside the
Eurozone, and this is expected to continue until the end of
the year."
"I suggested some months ago that we would
see higher numbers of visitors from inside the EU and the
statistics back this up and are hugely encouraging. Judging
from conversations I have had from local business owners,
the North East does seem to be attracting many of these
visitors."
"I am also delighted to see that visitors
are staying longer and spending more whilst they are here.
Notwithstanding the favourable exchange rates, I believe
that these figures demonstrate that we have an excellent
tourism product in the North East, and I am keen to ensure
that we do everything possible to maintain high standards of
service and provide a second to none visitor experience for
those who choose to visit us."
Mr Johsntone concluded "A close analysis of
this information suggests that with continuing economic
uncertainty, it is likely that domestic and European
visitors will continue to play a huge role in the economy of
the north east for the short term. This is also because of
reduced capacity in package holidays and fluctuating prices,
so we may well see this trend continue into 2010."
"I would urge business owners in
Aberdeenshire who cater for the tourism market to take these
changes into account when looking at their marketing
strategies over the next twelve months, so that they are
best placed to get their market share."
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