As a researcher and published author, ASSC’s CEO has conducted in-depth studies on Scotland’s self-catering sector, focusing on regulatory challenges, external pressures, and policy implications. My work contributes to both academic literature and real-world discussions on tourism governance, sustainable development, and industry resilience.
Co-authored with Masood Khodadadi, Reader (Associate Professor) in Tourism, Culture, and Society at the School of Business and Creative Industries, University of the West of Scotland the research aims to bridge the gap between academia and industry, ensuring that tourism policies reflect the realities of business owners while promoting responsible and sustainable growth.
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External Forces and Sector Fragility: A Policy Perspective on Scotland’s Self-Catering Industry
This study examines the challenges and opportunities facing Scotland’s self-catering sector, based on insights from a comprehensive survey by the Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers (ASSC). Using a mixed-methods approach, it combines quantitative data with qualitative insights to offer a nuanced understanding of the sector. Despite growing consumer demand, the industry faces significant pressures, including rising living costs, evolving consumer behaviours, dynamic shifts in tourism markets, tightening regulatory frameworks, and negative political and media narratives. These challenges are exacerbated by concerns about overtourism and anti-tourism sentiments, testing the sector’s resilience and adaptability. The study contributes both theoretically and practically by exploring the cumulative effects of these externalities, offering evidence-based insights for industry practices and tourism policymaking. Recommendations emphasise fostering a supportive regulatory environment and promoting sustainable growth to safeguard the sector’s viability. The findings underscore the importance of embedding resilience and adaptability into tourism management strategies, aligning with broader goals of sustainable tourism development. This research advances understanding of Scotland’s self-catering sector while contributing to wider academic and policy discussions, offering value for practitioners, policymakers, and academics focused on tourism governance and sustainable development.
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Published January 2025