The Edinburgh Tourism Action Group (ETAG) has announced the appointment of Donald Emslie to the role of Chair.
Donald will lead the work of ETAG, the umbrella organisation for the Edinburgh tourism sector, which brings together and supporting the work of key stakeholders, business associations and businesses to create and support a strong, thriving tourism community in Edinburgh. He brings a wealth of experience in business, media, sport and hospitality that will be crucial in continuing to drive progress within Edinburgh’s vibrant tourism sector.
He replaces outgoing Chair Robin Worsnop, as he prepares to step down following a nine-year term. Robin oversaw the successful development and implementation of the sector’s current tourism strategy which has helped drive consistent and sustainable growth in visitor numbers and spend.
Donald Emslie, new Chair of ETAG, said:“I am delighted to have been appointed as ETAG’s new Chair and excited to have the opportunity to contribute to the development of Edinburgh’s tourism sector and build on Robin’s legacy of strong and sustainable growth seen in the sector in recent years.
“ETAG’s work has played a unique and valuable role in bringing together all the many and varied sector stakeholders who are responsible for delivering a great visitor experience in Edinburgh. Looking ahead, I have no doubt that this will provide an essential platform to build on the many opportunities and challenges that face the city’s tourism sector going forward.
“Edinburgh has enjoyed eight years of continuous growth and Edinburgh’s tourism sector is in a strong position. However, it is essential that we continue to work hard to ensure that the sector continues to thrive and in doing so contributes to what make Edinburgh such a great place to live, work, study and invest, as well as visit.”
Robin Worsnop commented: “I am extremely proud to have played my part in the growth of Edinburgh’s tourism sector, one of the city’s great economic success stories in recent years. In my time at ETAG we have worked hard to build a unique model that supports the development of tourism in the city at all levels to improve and build upon Edinburgh’s world-class visitor offerings.
“As I reach the end of my tenure after nearly ten years, I am glad to welcome Donald into this role. He will bring fresh thinking and insights, as well as his wealth of knowledge and experience, to ensure that ETAG continues to go from strength to strength and support the tourism sector going forward.”
Garry Clark, local FSB Development Manager for Edinburgh, said:“We would like to congratulate Donald on his appointment and look forward to discussing with him the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for Edinburgh’s tourism economy.
“This is an interesting time for Edinburgh, with the proposed tourism tax currently subject to a national consultation, whilst areas of the city are about to suffer prolonged disruption due to the tram extension and utility works, with little clarity yet on support for businesses during these periods; not to mention the ongoing impact of Brexit.
“The Federation of Small Businesses remains a strong supporter of the work of ETAG and we look forward to working together to ensure that the city continues to maximise the economic benefits of our tourism potential.”
Founding Editor of The Edinburgh Reporter.
Edinburgh-born multimedia journalist and iPhoneographer.
