Tourism and Hospitality Industry Leadership Group | September 2026 update

Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Tourism & Transport

The meeting marked the first opportunity for the group to engage collectively with the Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Tourism and Transport, Stephen Flynn MSP, who joined the meeting to hear directly from industry leaders about the opportunities and challenges facing Scotland's visitor economy.

During the session, the Cabinet Secretary reaffirmed the Scottish Government's focus on economic growth and recognised the important contribution tourism and hospitality make to communities, employment and investment across Scotland. He highlighted international opportunities in key growth markets, including China, India and the United States, and stressed the importance of continued collaboration between industry and government to maximise Scotland's potential.

THILG members provided updates on several key workstreams supporting Scotland Outlook 2030, including;

• the Scottish Tourism Data Partnership
• the development of a Rail and Visitor Economy Strategy
• workforce and skills initiatives
• community-led tourism activity
• tourism and hospitality's transition towards net zero

Reviewing priorities for the future

A significant part of the meeting was dedicated to a strategic review of THILG's five missions as members considered how they should evolve to reflect changing economic conditions, technological advances and emerging national priorities.

Drawing on recent horizon-scanning and industry insights, as well as topics covered at previous THILG meetings, discussions highlighted support for the group's current mission-based approach while also identifying opportunities to increase impact through collaboration and clearer priorities.

Several themes emerged consistently across discussions, including;

• the central role of data and technology
• the importance of place and community
• the need to ensure tourism continues to contribute positively to Scotland's economy and environment

Looking ahead

Next steps over the coming months include a refresh and refocus of priorities, ensuring activity remains aligned with Scotland Outlook 2030 and consideration of potential collaborative initiatives across the visitor economy.

The next meeting of the Tourism and Hospitality Industry Leadership Group will take place in November 2026.