Home » TOURISM NEWS » Scotland’s Tourism Sector Gears Up For VisitScotland Connect 2026, Creating New Opportunities For Businesses To Expand Internationally
Published on
September 15, 2025
Scotland’s tourism sector is gearing up for VisitScotland Connect 2026, an event that will provide local businesses with invaluable opportunities to expand internationally. By connecting tourism providers with global buyers and industry professionals, the event facilitates key partnerships and exposes Scotland’s unique attractions to a wider audience. As the tourism sector rebounds, this initiative allows businesses to tap into emerging international trends, boosting their global presence. With Scotland’s tourism industry playing a vital role in the economy, Connect 2026 offers a platform to foster growth, drive economic benefits, and elevate Scotland as a top-tier global destination. This creates lasting opportunities for businesses to thrive and reach international markets more effectively.
VisitScotland Connect 2026 will be held at the Scottish Event Campus in Glasgow for the first time, and tourism businesses are encouraged to register now. This event plays a significant role in promoting Scotland’s tourism industry by connecting local businesses with global tour operators, travel advisors, and destination management companies.
The primary goal of VisitScotland Connect is to increase Scotland’s share of international tourism by facilitating valuable partnerships between Scottish tourism businesses and influential players in the global travel industry. With the global tourism sector continuing to expand, this event offers a unique platform for Scottish businesses to reach a wider audience and forge strong, long-lasting relationships with key international partners. By attending this event, Scottish businesses have the opportunity to showcase their products and services, create new business opportunities, and drive international interest in Scotland as a premier destination.
This year’s event in Aberdeen saw businesses from Ayrshire represent the region on a larger stage. Among those participating were well-known establishments such as SimpsInns, Auchrannie Resort, and Trump Turnberry. Their participation highlighted the region’s diverse offerings and showcased Ayrshire’s ability to attract international visitors. For the first time, a regional partnership called Visit Ayrshire and Arran was formed, bringing together the Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce, VisitArran, and local councils. This collective effort underscores the importance of regional cooperation in the tourism sector and the power of a united front when promoting a destination.
At this year’s event, a total of 8,200 meetings were held, bringing together tourism businesses from across Scotland and global tourism professionals. These meetings resulted in bookings worth an estimated £8.6 million for Scotland, demonstrating the effectiveness of VisitScotland Connect in driving economic growth and fostering new business opportunities. The significant number of meetings and the resulting bookings provide a clear indication of the event’s impact and the value it brings to Scottish businesses.
VisitScotland Connect 2026 is expected to be even larger and more impactful, as businesses across Scotland are urged to sign up and participate. Tourism is a vital part of Scotland’s economy, and events like VisitScotland Connect help support its continued growth by connecting Scottish businesses with international markets. The event also allows local businesses to understand global trends, develop better marketing strategies, and create tailored products that appeal to international visitors. Through this process, businesses can better position themselves to meet the demands of the evolving global tourism landscape.
The event not only helps businesses in major cities but also benefits the more rural regions of Scotland, including Ayrshire & Arran. The tourism industry has a significant impact on the local economy, with overnight visitors to Ayrshire & Arran spending £161 million last year alone. This spending helps stimulate investment, create jobs, and support local businesses, enhancing the overall prosperity of the region. The tourism industry in Ayrshire & Arran plays an important role in the region’s economic success, and initiatives like VisitScotland Connect help strengthen the area’s presence on the global tourism map.
By connecting Scottish businesses with global partners, VisitScotland Connect boosts Scotland’s global reputation, helping to increase awareness of Scotland as a top-tier travel destination. The event highlights Scotland’s diverse offerings, from stunning natural landscapes and historical landmarks to world-class cultural experiences. As international visitors become more discerning, they look for unique and authentic travel experiences, which Scotland can provide in abundance. The opportunity for Scottish businesses to market their products and services to a global audience helps solidify Scotland’s position as a leading tourism destination.
Participating in VisitScotland Connect also has significant benefits for the wellbeing of both visitors and residents. Tourism fosters greater cultural exchange, strengthens social connections, and helps promote healthier lifestyles. Visitors often participate in outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and exploring scenic locations, which have proven positive effects on mental and physical health. Moreover, the influx of international tourists creates jobs and opportunities for local communities, improving the quality of life for residents.
As the tourism industry continues to grow, businesses in Ayrshire & Arran and across Scotland are encouraged to take advantage of the opportunities presented by VisitScotland Connect. Tourism businesses that are ready to engage with the global travel trade should sign up for the 2026 event, ensuring they are part of the conversation as Scotland continues to build its international profile. The event is set to take place on April 15-16, 2026, and it is open to businesses prepared to collaborate with the travel trade and enhance Scotland’s presence in the global tourism market.
For businesses in Ayrshire & Arran, attending VisitScotland Connect presents a unique chance to connect with international partners and raise awareness of their offerings on a global scale. By participating in this event, businesses can generate new revenue streams, develop international partnerships, and contribute to the ongoing success of Scotland’s tourism industry. The impact of these efforts is far-reaching, as it creates opportunities not only for individual businesses but also for the broader Scottish economy.
Scotland’s tourism sector is gearing up for VisitScotland Connect 2026, a key event that will create new opportunities for local businesses to expand internationally by connecting them with global buyers and showcasing Scotland’s unique offerings to the world. This initiative will drive growth and strengthen Scotland’s position as a leading global tourism destination.
VisitScotland Connect is an essential event for anyone involved in Scotland’s tourism and events sectors. It supports businesses in broadening their global reach, helps grow Scotland’s reputation as a must-visit destination, and ultimately drives economic growth and job creation. As the event continues to evolve, it will remain a key part of Scotland’s strategy to boost its share of global tourism and strengthen its position as a leading destination for international travelers.
