“Green is the New Gold” ASSC Regional Gathering Stirling

With Special thanks to our Event Sponsors:

This event was held on 3rd November 2025

Hosted by Fiona Campbell MBE, Chief Executive of the Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers (ASSC), the Gathering brought together operators, partners, and policy experts to explore practical, actionable ways to build resilience, embrace responsibility, and shape the future of Scottish tourism.

We enjoyed thought-provoking panels, interactive discussion, and meaningful connections with peers across the sector – all designed to leave you inspired, informed, and ready to take your business forward.

There was

✔️ Networking Opportunities

✔️ Exhibitors

✔️ Expert-Led Panels & Presentations

Key Sessions at the Event

💬 State of the Nation Update delivered by Fiona Campbell MBE, setting the scene for the challenges and opportunities ahead.

💬 Panel Discussion 1: Green is the New Gold – What It Really Means to Be a Responsible Self-Catering Business led by Melanie Allen, Director of SCOTO, with contributions from Booking.com, Loch Ken Eco Bothies, and the ASSC. Explore what responsible tourism means in practice, from visitor expectations to achievable actions for operators.

💬 Panel Discussion 2: Tourism at a Crossroads – Regulation, Resilience, and the Road Ahead, chaired by Fiona Campbell MBE, with expert perspectives from WYM Rating, Burness Paull, and Jackie Baillie MSP. A focused look at the key pressures facing the sector – including Short-Term Let Regulations, Non-Domestic Rates, the Visitor Levy, and climate action – with practical strategies for resilience.

💬 Live Q&A with Fiona Campbell MBE: Your opportunity to put questions directly to the ASSC Chief Executive.

Supporting Local Communities through ASSC Regional Gatherings 

As part of the Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers commitment to the communities we visit, and in line with our objectives around responsible tourism, the ASSC is proud to support Start Up Stirling at our upcoming Regional Gathering in Stirling. 

Since 1994, Start Up Stirling has been providing vital assistance to local people in crisis – from operating food banks and rural delivery services, to offering Home Starter Packs and running weekly Community Hubs that help tackle loneliness and isolation. 

For the event, we encourage everyone to bring along non-perishable food items and / or a cash donation to support this essential service as we move into the winter months and navigate challenging times together.