© Peebles Hydro
The South of Scotland Destination Alliance (SSDA) has announced that tickets are now available for its fourth annual conference. This key event for the region’s tourism and hospitality sectors will feature various speakers, panel discussions, and hands-on activities to share insights and foster collaboration among industry professionals.
Taking place on 19 March at The Peebles Hydro in the Scottish Borders, this year’s conference will feature speakers including TV personality, artist, and adventurer Timmy Mallett, who recently documented his journey cycling around Dumfries and Galloway to his social media following.
Following the unveiling of the South of Scotland Responsible Tourism Strategy 2025-2035 at last year’s conference, this year, the focus will remain on the four pillars of the South of Scotland Responsible Tourism Strategy: Inspire, Develop, Responsible, and Support.
The 10-year plan was developed jointly by South of Scotland Destination Alliance (SSDA), South of Scotland Enterprise (SOSE), Scottish Borders Council, Dumfries & Galloway Council and VisitScotland with input from dozens of regional tourism and hospitality businesses and local and national stakeholders.
The conference will revolve around the four main strands of the strategy to share experiences, learn and inspire new local collaborations between businesses. The Responsible Tourism Strategy will underpin all agency work in the South of Scotland over the next decade.
David Hope-Jones, Chief Executive, South of Scotland Destination Alliance said, “Our annual conference is a vital gathering of tourism and hospitality businesses from across the South of Scotland, with opportunities for businesses to inform the SSDA’s strategy as well as an inspiring programme of speakers and activities.
“Earlier this year we revealed STEAM data showing that the South of Scotland grew its visitor economy by 20% last year and increased visitor numbers by 26%, to over 5 million, making it clear the incredible potential of ambitious collaboration. This year’s event will focus once again on the South of Scotland Responsible Tourism Strategy as we come together to map out the next decade of sustainable growth. Book your tickets now to have your say!”
Gordon Smith, Destination Development Director at VisitScotland said, “The SSDA conference is a key highlight in the tourism calendar and we’re proud to once again be supporting this important industry event.
“The South of Scotland is an incredible region, with a wide tourism offering. The past year has seen international tourism return in record numbers nationwide and while there are many positive developments in the region, we know that the cost of living and doing business remains a challenge for our valuable sector.
“At this time, it is vital that we embrace these opportunities to share knowledge and seek collaboration to help us achieve the aims of the South of Scotland Responsible Tourism Strategy.”
Click here to book your South of Scotland Destination Alliance Conference 2025 tickets.
