The Scottish Passenger Agents’ Association (SPAA) has urged new Scotland first minister Humza Yousaf to retain engagement with the country’s outbound travel sector.
Jacqueline Dobson, vice-president of the SPAA, said outbound travel has the "power to generate millions" into the economy as well as positioning Scotland as an outward, global-thinking nation.
"We would welcome a meeting with Yousaf and his new cabinet, once appointed, to discuss the biggest challenges facing industries here in Scotland," she said.
"Great strides have been made in the last year with the growth of the CPG for Aviation and Tourism, but we hope the findings of the recently published report are taken seriously."
Dobson said the association would also like to see improved opportunities for young people who wish to embark on an apprenticeship programme.
"The Scottish government has, unfortunately, capped the places in travel for the next academic year which does not support overall industry recovery objectives," she continued.
"It also means there are more opportunities for apprentices joining in England, creating an imbalance for both businesses and young people."
The SPAA further encouraged the new first minister to place a renewed focus on investing in Scotland’s high streets through targeted funding and initiatives.
"It is concerning that one in six retail units across Scotland’s retail network lies empty," Dobson added.
"A meaningful engagement process with business leaders of all sizes followed up with purposeful action is the first step to addressing this escalating problem."
The primary conversation point should be the "outdated" non-domestic rates system which is currently "suffocating" retail potential and is "not fit for purpose", Dobson concluded.
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