International Tourist Spend in Scotland Rose 9% In The Year to March 2017

INTERNATIONAL TOURIST SPEND IN SCOTLAND ROSE 9% IN THE YEAR TO MARCH 2017

International tourists spent around £1,850 million in the year to March 2017, figures from the Office for National Statistics show, while overnight stays by overseas visitors rose almost 3% to 2.75 million.

Tourists from North America where the biggest spenders by geographic location, with spending up 40% year to year to £641 million as North American visitor numbers rose 19% to 590,000.

European visits also increased, although spending fell from about £883 million to £833 million, due to Brexit impacting on the value of the £.

VisitScotland chief executive Malcolm Roughead said:

"These latest figures show that Scotland continues to punch above its weight in a hugely competitive global market, with our country seen around the world as a 'must-visit' destination.

“We will, of course, not rest on our laurels.

“We need to think bigger about Scotland as a tourism destination to ensure we fulfil our potential. Every visitor must get a quality experience every single time.”

Patricia Gibson added:

"Scotland's tourist industry, which employs 217,000 people, continues to flourish acting as a magnet for tourists drawn to our world-class attractions.

“It is great news for our economy, not least here in North Ayrshire and Arran.

“The rise in overseas tourists is encouraging. Visitors are spending generously when they visit Scotland, particularly those coming from North America.”