SCOTTISH tourism businesses are being urged to focus on the youth market after a new report revealed 16 to 24-year-olds stay longer in Scotland than any other age group.
National tourism organisation VisitScotland published their new Trends for 2016 study yesterday which sets out seven key consumer development areas for hotels, B&Bs, restaurants and other tourism businesses over the next year.
Part of the report, headlined "Recognising the Importance of Youth", focuses on the fact that younger people stay longer in Scotland during January-March than any other domestic demographic, so businesses are being urged to think about appealing to younger visitors during the off-season and highlights the fact they seek quality for good value.
The paper also focuses on the young at heart, with "The Return of the Original Trendsetters" section inviting businesses to help the baby boomer generation (those born between 1946 and 1964) to rediscover their youthful exuberance by offering pursuits normally associated with younger visitors.
Chris Greenwood, senior tourism Insight manager at VisitScotland, said: “The tourism and hospitality sectors are increasingly sensitive to consumer trends and economic conditions, so having an informed outlook is vital.
"By analysing and identifying trends, we are able to offer valuable advice to Scotland’s tourism industry, ensuring they are in the best possible position to welcome visitors from all over the world.”
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