CEO Roundup: Advocating for Scotland’s Self-Catering Community

As always, the Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers (ASSC) remains steadfast in championing the best interests of the self-catering sector. From high-profile events to ongoing advocacy efforts, we continue to work tirelessly to support and strengthen our industry.

Here’s a roundup of recent and upcoming activities:

Events:

ASSC’s CEO, Fiona Campbell will be attending The Signature Conference Evening Gathering. As part of Scottish Tourism Month, this event will bring together politicians and industry leaders in a stunning setting to celebrate the tourism sector.

She will then attend The Signature Conference. As the flagship event of Scottish Tourism Month, this conference will unite leading voices from across the industry. With engaging speaker presentations, insightful panel discussions, and extensive networking opportunities, attendees will gain valuable insights into emerging travel and hospitality trends, economic forecasts, and policy developments. Additionally, the event will provide an update on the Scotland Outlook 2030 national tourism strategy.

Destinations Deep Dive: Unlocking New Opportunities: Fiona has been invited to a workshop to  explore how destinations can turn national tourism ambitions into meaningful regional impacts. Key discussions will focus on sustainable tourism, supporting businesses in adopting low-carbon approaches, and ensuring that tourism benefits local communities. Attendees will gain practical insights into fostering behaviour change, championing fair and scalable solutions, and driving collective action.

Advocacy Efforts: Ongoing Conversations & Industry Representation

The ASSC continues to engage in critical discussions with policymakers and industry bodies to ensure the self-catering community’s interests are well represented.

• Visitor Levy Clarifications: We are actively seeking clarity on whether the Visitor Levy—introduced under the Visitor Levy (Scotland) Act 2024—will be considered taxable income for businesses.
• Defining the ‘Accommodation’ Element: Discussions are ongoing to establish clear guidelines on what constitutes the ‘accommodation’ portion of a transaction for the purposes of Visitor Levy calculations.
• National Data Gathering Portal: We will continue dialogues with the Improvement Service and City of Edinburgh Council to ensure the implementation of a fair and effective national data collection system.
• Engagement with Scottish Assessors Association: Addressing industry concerns around annual occupancy declarations and ensuring improved communication with businesses.

Looking Ahead The ASSC remains committed to advocating for fair policies, supporting sustainable growth, and ensuring that Scotland’s self-catering businesses thrive in a changing regulatory landscape. Whether through high-level industry events or direct engagement with policymakers, we continue to push for clarity, fairness, and opportunity for all.

Stay tuned for further updates, and as always, thank you for your continued support!