Catering Scotland

An event for tourism professionals in the North East aims to offer ‘a glimpse into the future of the industry…’

The Aberdeen City and Shire Tourism Conference, to be held on 15th March at the Jurys Inn Aberdeen Airport hotel, will provide information about the changing shape of tourism in the area, as well as detailing how advances in technology can be used to improve the customer experience.

Steve Harris, chief executive of VisitAberdeen, will outline the remit of the area’s new destination organisation, addressing the changes in digital technologies and social media that tourism operators can use to their advantage.

Claire Bruce, chair of the Aberdeen City and Shire Tourism Partnership (pictured), said: ‘While it is widely known that Brits book later than other European holidaymakers, it is also true that they consume the largest amount of travel advertising before making their final decision.

‘Over a third of UK internet users are now also happy to purchase goods via social media and it’s important that operators are evolving their businesses in order to interact with their customers in a dynamic manner.’

Alongside Steve Harris, speakers include innovation specialist Moira Forsyth and VisitScotland’s Vicki Miller.

Registration for the Aberdeen City and Shire Tourism Conference is open now at www.regonline.co.uk/aberdeentourism2016. Tickets cost £30 + VAT.