As part of a wider socio-economic study of the cruise tourism market in Shetland, consultants working for Shetland Islands Council are seeking input from local businesses and organisations.
Data gathered will feed into the study, to estimate the economic impact of cruise ship visits to Shetland, as well as highlight challenges and opportunities for Shetland communities to maximise local benefits.
The study is being carried out by McGregor Solutions. Consultants Anne Byers and Naomi Bremner are currently in Shetland promoting the survey and meeting a wide range of businesses, visitor attractions, and community groups across the isles with an interest in the market.
All organisations are encouraged to take part, whether cruise tourism is a major part of their work, or a lesser element, or possibly not an area they’re involved in. The study hopes to show how visitor activity translates into income for local businesses, where the benefits are being felt, as well understanding some of the pressures created by cruise tourism.
Tommy Coutts, Executive Manager of the Council’s Economic Development Service, said:
“We have never assessed cruise tourism at a local level. As cruise becomes more prominent in our tourism sector, both in the main ports of Lerwick and Scalloway but also increasingly in our smaller islands, we need to understand its current economic impact, challenges, and opportunities. Commissioning this study to determine the socio-economic impact of the cruise sector in Shetland will be a significant step in our understanding of the current market. It will also help us to better support communities in future, to maximise benefits whilst minimising any negative impacts.
“I’d like to thank everyone who has so far contributed to the study and urge anyone who has not yet responded to pass on their views.”
The online survey is currently open until the end of September and should only take around 10-15 minutes. All responses will be treated in the strictest confidence and only reported in aggregate form, so no individual, business or organisation can be identified.
Anyone who would like to speak to the study consultants, or request a paper copy of the survey, is asked to contact Anne Byers at McGregor Solutions or 07917 127151.