2025 Consumer Research: Motivations, Preferences, Perceptions

Explore views of Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire from across the UK

About this Research

This consumer research has been carried out annually since 2022. Working with Taylor McKenzie Ltd and Scattered Clouds, VisitAberdeenshire captures in-depth views from 1,600 respondents across the UK.

The fieldwork takes place in October each year, and the outputs include a factsheet, comprehensive slide deck and the findings feature within an annual webinar as part of VisitAberdeenshire's industry engagement programme.

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Key Findings

Top 5 holiday type preferences: City break; Beach holiday; Scenic/landscape holiday; All-inclusive resort; Self-catering holiday.

Top 5 activities when on holiday: Enjoying local food and drink; Sightseeing; Exploring cities; Relaxing/people watching; Short walks (up to 2 miles/1 hour).

Top 3 information sources at planning stage: Digital/online tools; Friends and family; Past personal experience.

Top 4 social media platforms used at planning stage: Instagram; YouTube; Facebook/Facebook Messenger; TikTok.

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Top 3 smartphone uses once in destination: Checking the weather; Sharing photos of places with friends and family; Maps to find way/spot places to visit.

Top 5 words/phrases that describe "ideal" holiday destination: Relaxing; Value for money; Rich in culture and heritage; Beautiful; Fun.

Top 5 words/phrases that describe Aberdeen city: Traditional; Rich in culture and heritage; Accommodation choices suitable for all budgets; Easy to get to; Suitable for all ages.

Top 5 words/phrases that describe Aberdeenshire: Beautiful; Traditional; Rich in culture and heritage; Accommodation choices suitable for all budgets; Uncrowded.

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