Valued at £864 million in Gross Value Added (GVA) annually and supporting over 29,000 jobs, Scotland’s self-catering sector is a vital contributor to the Scottish economy.

The event aims to provide a platform for industry professionals to unite, strategise, and fight for the future of Scotland’s self-catering sector.

According to ASSC, increasing regulatory pressures, economic hurdles, and policy changes are threatening the viability of small businesses and putting the self-catering community at a crossroads.

Sponsored by Booking.com, SuperControl, Howden, and EmbraceScotland, the event features leading voices in tourism, policy, and industry regulation, including:

• Murdo Fraser MSP, Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Tourism
• Caroline Warburton, destination development director (Central and North East) at VisitScotland
• Industry experts covering planning, licensing, and taxation.

The gathering will tackle some of the most pressing issues facing Scotland’s self-catering sector, including:

• Visitor Levy – How will it impact small accommodation providers?
• Abolition of the Furnished Holiday Let (FHL) Tax Regime – What does it mean for self-catering businesses?
• Short-Term Let Licensing & Planning Regulations – How can the sector navigate the shifting landscape?

The event will support Dundee Bairns, a charity dedicated to improving the lives of vulnerable children in high-deprivation areas. Delegates are encouraged to donate essential items such as sheets, blankets, towels, cleaning products, and toiletries.

This initiative follows ASSC’s strong track record of community support, including a beach clean in Oban and food bank donations in Glasgow.

Fiona Campbell, chief executive of the ASSC, stated: “Scotland’s self-catering sector plays a crucial role in our tourism industry, local economies, and communities. However, mounting regulatory pressures and policy changes are making it increasingly difficult for operators to sustain their businesses. At the same time, demand for self-catering in Scotland has risen for the third consecutive year, while demand for hotels has declined. Travellers are actively seeking space, flexibility, and authentic local experiences -all of which our sector provides. Scotland remains a highly desirable destination, and self-catering properties continue to attract visitors.

“Yes, the challenges are real, but so is our determination. We are resilient. We are united. We are not going anywhere. This event is a vital opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions, seek solutions, and advocate for a fair and balanced approach that allows our sector to thrive. The ASSC remains committed to fighting for urgent reforms to secure our future and ensure that self-catering remains a thriving, vital part of Scotland’s tourism industry.”