Cairngorms Businesses aim for Green profit

GREEN innovation and the fantastic natural environment of the Cairngorms National Park will help tourism businesses ride out the credit crunch, according to experts.

Green Places, Green Profit is the theme at the free Cairngorms Tourism Conference next Wednesday, 5 November, when businesses from across the National Park will come together to share expertise, practical advice and ideas.

Tourism leaders are urging operators from across the Cairngorms National Park area to attend the conference at Boat of Garten Community Hall from 10am to 4pm. And as a special ‘green’ incentive delegates arriving in a full car will get their fuel paid for by the organisers.

“We know that visitors come to the Cairngorms National Park for the fantastic scenery and unspoilt natural environment” explained Heather Trench, sustainable tourism officer for the Cairngorms National Park Authority.

“At the same time, consumers are becoming increasingly aware of environmental issues, and at this time of rising fuel prices and economic uncertainty, the next few years will be a critical time for many businesses.

“We’re going to be exploring how best to ride out the credit crunch, turning the situation to tourism businesses’ advantage by presenting the Cairngorms National Park as a very special place for everyone to enjoy and attracting a increasing number of visitors who are reluctant to travel abroad.

“We’ll look at how businesses could save money through more efficient use of resources, and use that as a key marketing tool to attract and retain visitors.”

Claire Bruce, chair of Royal Deeside and the Cairngorms Destination Management Organisation said: “As green issues get higher on the priority list for many people, here in Royal Deeside and the Cairngorms we recognise that the green factor can have a bearing on the choices that visitors make. In favour of reducing their carbon footprint and saving money, many people are now choosing to holiday at home and for these people, the Deeside and the Cairngorms area is an attractive destination for a break away.

“This event aims to highlight how important the green message is and how local organisations can enhance their business by understanding and implementing a green approach to their company operations.

“The green bottom line encourages businesses to save money by reducing energy costs whilst attracting visitors who opt to do business with those who are doing their bit for the environment,” she added. “I would encourage as many local businesses as possible from Royal Deeside and the Cairngorms area to attend what promises to be a thought provoking and practical day. There will be a fuel cashback offer for those who car-share to the event, so encouraging others to attend will also bring benefits!”

Pamela Grant of Cairngorms Chamber of Commerce added: “At this time of economic uncertainty, and with environmental issues becoming increasingly high profile, the theme of Green Profit is particularly topical.

“The annual tourism conference is always a popular event, and this year will be no exception. Places are limited, so we would urge businesses to book as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.”

Tourism operators should book their places by phoning 01479 780539 or e-mailing [email protected]