Key Sector Profile: Tourism

Scotland's tourism industry has been identified as one of the 6 key sectors crucial to growth in the Government Economic Strategy, so will be a priority for investment in training and infrastructure over the next few years.  It currently generates £4.1 billion a year, about 5% of Scottish GDP, and is made up of around 20 000 businesses, supporting more than 200 000 jobs, directly and indirectly. 

The sector covers businesses including hotels and hostels, visitor attractions, restaurants and travel services.  Besides the more mainstream services there are niche and emerging markets such as gambling, business tourism and ecotourism.

Research by the Sector Skills Council People 1st found that the main skills gaps within the sector include management, customer service and food preparation.  13% of staff lack some skills they need for their job role, and 15% of vacancies are classified as 'hard to fill', as there is a shortage of suitable candidates. 

Tourism currently has the highest staff turnover rate of all major employment sectors.  Research shows that by investing in training, employers can significantly improve staff retention.  There is also an opportunity to improve IT literacy as many of the sector's small businesses would benefit from a more effective online presence.

People 1st has recently reviewed the qualifications available in the sector in line with employer needs, and is promoting the use of courses like the Diploma in Professional Cookery and the Modern Apprenticeship in Hospitality Supervision and Leadership to raise standards in the industry.

You can find more labour market information about this and other sectors on Skills Development Scotland's Research Online portal.