Thursday, 10 May 2012 14:10

The Royal Highland Centre, adjacent to Edinburgh Airport, is celebrating after hosting what has been hailed as one of the best VisitScotland expos ever by Mike Cantlay, Chairman of the national tourism organisation.

The Royal Highland Centre, adjacent to Edinburgh Airport, is celebrating after hosting what has been hailed as one of the best VisitScotland expos ever by Mike Cantlay, Chairman of the national tourism organisation.

Scotland's biggest tourism trade show attracted more than 700 buyers from 36 different countries and showcased almost 250 Scottish businesses.

Considered a highly important industry event, The Royal Highland Centre invested over £25k in the latest WiFi systems in order to secure VisitScotland expo.

And it looks like the decision to host the event in the Capital, the first time since 2007, will pay dividends, with the two-day event expected to have generated over £1.7 million for Edinburgh's economy.

Harry Shaw, Director of Coventry-based Harry Shaw Travel, said:

"I had a rewarding few days in Scotland and was able to negotiate new contracts with approximately ten hotels at VisitScotland expo. I am confident this will lead to a significant increase in business in the latter part of 2012 and through into 2013. I have not visited Edinburgh for several years and I forgot what a truly inspiring place it is."

Mike Cantlay, Chairman of VisitScotland, said:

"VisitScotland expo is always a memorable occasion and this year was no exception. we are very encouraged by the number of positive comments we have received from buyers, exhibitors and visitors alike and I would like to thank the Royal Highland Centre for hosting one of the best ever VisitScotland expos."

Archie Glendinning, Director of the Royal Highland Centre, added:

"The Royal Highland Centre is well-known for its ability to host large scale events and the success of VisitScotland expo provides further evidence that we have the location, the facilities and the team on the ground to deliver on clients' expectations."

The Royal Highland Centre is gearing up for two major events in June - Gardening Scotland and The Royal Highland Show.

Archie added:

Between these two events we will attract in excess of 250,000 consumers at the Royal Highland Centre. This demonstrates the endless possibilities this venue provides."