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August 2026 Newsletter

The latest news, insights and updates for tourism and hospitality businesses across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire

We recently launched our Annual Review for 2025-2026. This highlights the work delivered over the previous financial year. From marketing campaigns to trade fairs, from convention bureau research and bidding to an extensive business support programme, alongside commercial activity, essential business operations, our welcome initiative and our support for the next generation of tourism professionals, our team have led the growth of the North-east visitor economy. This year's review also marks our tenth anniversary, reflecting on a decade of collaboration, insight and impact across the region.

You can read the review here: VisitAberdeenshire 2025-2026 Annual Review.

Value of Tourism Visualised 

The visitor economy generated ÂŁ1.37 billion in economic impact in 2025, a real-term increase of 4.5% on 2024. We've published three new infographs that visualise key insights.

You can view the full infographs and read more about the results for the region as a whole, Aberdeen city and Aberdeenshire (excluding the city) by following the link below.

View STEAM infographs

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Autumn campaign - A Taste of ...

Our autumn consumer campaign, A Taste of ..., is now live and will run until the end of September 2026, targeting potential visitors across the rest of Scotland and Northern England to drive visitation during late summer and autumn. Delivered in partnership with Scottish Citylink Coaches and the National Trust for Scotland, the campaign promotes the region's rich heritage, food and drink, outdoor adventures and seasonal experiences, encouraging visitors to stay longer and explore more. If you're interested in finding out more about partnering with VisitAberdeenshire on future consumer campaigns, including Spring 2027, we'd love to hear from you. Our partnership campaigns are fully managed by VisitAberdeenshire, helping generate leads, extend your reach and increase your exposure through association with a trusted destination brand.

To find out more, contact Ashleigh Pirie, Marketing Manager.

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Bring your business to The Getaway Show 2026

VisitAberdeenshire is working in partnership with P&J Live to create a dedicated Explore Aberdeen & Aberdeenshire area at The Getaway Show 2026, taking place from 25-27 September 2026 at P&J Live. We are inviting local tourism and hospitality providers to consider exhibiting.

Find out more and register your interest.

Accessibility matters everywhere

Our latest annual consumer research found that 24% of respondents are affected by disability, either personally or through a travel companion. Accessibility is therefore mainstream, not niche. It matters at every stage of the visitor experience, from what businesses offer, to how they describe it, to how people use it.

Update your accessibility information on your VisitAberdeenshire business listing so customers can find you based on their individual requirements. Log in now, review your details, and make sure your access information is clear, accurate and up to date.

For practical guidance on improving accessibility and providing clear access information, explore our Sustainable Tourism Toolkit. 

Sustainable Tourism Toolkit

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Upcoming VisitAberdeenshire Events

News from other organistations

Aberdeen Restaurant Weeks returns this month

Aberdeen Restaurant Weeks is back from Monday 24 August to Sunday 6 September with a line-up of around 80 eateries joining in. The event offers exclusive menus and authentic dining experiences for your visitors.

View participating venues

Vendor opportunity - meet the operator  

The McGinty's Group and Mearns & Gill are hosting an introductory event for potential vendors at Flint, the new Aberdeen market & food hall development which is due to open next year. The event will take place at No.10 Bar and Restaurant, on Tuesday 25 August.

Book tickets for free

Business Gateway influencer marketing workshop 

This interactive session at the Station Hotel, Stonehaven will deliver practical insights into making influencer marketing work for your business.

Register now

VisitScotland - How to optimise your Google Business Profile

Are your customers finding you easily online? A Google Business Profile can help increase the visibility of your business and lets potential customers know the physical location of your business. Read on for guidance on setting up your account and how to make the most of it.

Guide to Google Business Profile

Scottish Rural Leadership Programme

Applications are open for rural SMEs to take part in a six-month transformational leadership journey. Information sessions are available to learn more about the programme and the deadline for applications is Friday 4 September.

Learn more

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Your go-to resource for the latest news, insights and updates for tourism and hospitality businesses across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire. Stay informed about events, workshops and opportunities to help your business thrive in the region’s vibrant visitor economy.

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