Positive Impact Inbound Tour Operator Award

The Positive Impact Inbound Tour Operator Category is a National only Award. Entries can only be submitted through the Scottish Thistle Awards website.

Scotland’s international inbound tour operators play a pivotal role in shaping how global audiences experience our people, places and culture. As the first point of contact for many visitors, this sector holds significant influence in how Scotland’s values of responsibility, sustainability, inclusivity and community benefit are communicated, delivered and upheld. 

This category recognises operators who champion responsible travel, delivering a positive impact – ensuring Scotland’s natural heritage, communities and culture are protected and enhanced – while offering world-class visitor experiences. Judges will be looking to understand the scale and scope of your operations, the partnerships you foster with Scottish businesses and how you use your influence to deliver a positive impact for Scotland’s destinations and communities, across Scotland and throughout the year, driving seasonal and regional growth in Scottish tourism. 

Who should enter?

This is open to Scottish based inbound tour operators and / or Destination Management Company (DMC), promoting and selling packaged product (holidays) to international markets. 

Successful applicants will be expected to show: 

·        Delivery of responsible travel, season extending product programmes that tap into international source market demand 

·        Inclusion of new positive impact itineraries in international tour operator offering, for example: ‘slow’ itineraries with longer stays in fewer locations; routing and scheduling to avoid pressure on tourism hotspots; out of peak season experiences; and giving visitors the inside track on our cultural heritage and showcasing Scottish life.

Preview the questions here by downloading this document.