Just before Christmas, the Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers (ASSC) met with PASC UK in Glasgow to agree next steps on closer collaboration in 2026, building on the Memorandum of Understanding signed in October 2024.
With the self-catering and short-term rental sector facing sustained regulatory and fiscal pressure across the UK, both organisations recognised the importance of working more closely to support operators and strengthen collective advocacy. While the ASSC and PASC UK will continue to operate independently, there is significant value for members in aligning where interests, evidence and expertise overlap.
Both organisations are firmly grounded in supporting operators first and foremost. The sector exists because of its businesses – largely micro-enterprises and family-run operations – and ensuring their sustainability remains the central priority. By pooling resources and coordinating efforts, the ASSC and PASC UK aim to help members navigate an increasingly complex tax and regulatory environment and continue to operate viable, high-quality businesses.
As part of this strengthened collaboration, the two organisations will:
- Share and cross-reference their extensive libraries of sector guidance, research and technical papers, expanding the resources available to members
- Review member benefit schemes to identify opportunities for broader access across both membershipsWork more closely with trade partners to deliver increased value to members
- Share technical, legal and tax expertise developed through significant investment by both organisations, delivering real financial benefits
- Collaborate on sustainability initiatives, building on insight gathered through a joint member surveyEncourage platforms and technology providers that benefit from the sector to contribute more meaningfully to advocacy and representation
- Actively share legal and regulatory successes across jurisdictions, reinforcing the value of informed, coordinated action
The self-catering sector plays a vital role across Scotland’s visitor economy, where it provides essential accommodation that underpins local businesses, employment and year-round tourism.
The ASSC remains committed to ensuring policymakers across the UK understand the true nature and value of the sector, and to challenging the continued conflation of self-catering businesses with empty and second homes. Our members are responsible operators, running legitimate businesses that make a significant contribution to communities and local economies.
Further updates on this collaboration will be shared in early 2026.
