VisitAberdeenshire launches latest round of Game Changer programme for tourism businesses

VisitAberdeenshire is offering local firms the chance to join the latest round of its Game Changer for Tourism Businesses programme.  

Applications are now open for 12 businesses to take part in the scheme, designed to help business growth.  

Developed and offered in partnership by VisitAberdeenshire, Opportunity North East and Scottish Enterprise, the programme helps businesses identify target markets, understand consumer needs and supports businesses to tailor services to reflect the experiences that visitors seek. Participants leave the programme with a growth plan for their business. 

The Game Changer for Tourism Businesses programme is now in its fifth round and has supported over 40 businesses since its inception in 2019.  

It runs from mid-January to April and includes seven full-day business growth workshops, three one-to-one coaching sessions and a best practice learning day. The programme is once again offered free of charge to successful applicants. 

The programme provides guidance in tourism business management,a framework for future learning and enables businesses to implement learnings quickly. 

Chris Foy, CEO, VisitAberdeenshire said: “The Game Changer programme quite literally lives up to its name and provides businesses with essential tools to facilitate growth. Amidst an often noisy and crowded competitive market, the programme gives a business the clarity it needs to identify direction of travel and how it can evolve to meet customers’ changing expectations.  

“I encourage any tourism businesses that wishes to take advantage of the skills, knowledge and guidance provided by the programme’s contributors to apply for this year’s Game Changer.”  

Jennifer Craw, Chief Executive of Opportunity North East, said: “Tourism is a key industry in North east Scotland. The sector draws on spectacular natural assets, world-renowned premium food and drink from land and sea, and cultural and historical attractions. The Game Changer programme supports businesses to develop unique experiences for visitors and is part of ONE action and investment to strengthen and diversify the visitor economy.” 

Applications close at 5pm on Monday 28 November, with further information and booking form available at https://industry.visitabdn.com/