GRANT CAMPBELL: Scottish Government needs to regain the trust of Highland businesses
The success and diversity of our regional economy was acknowledged earlier this month at SCDI’s Highlands and Islands Business Excellence Awards which celebrates local businesses for their contribution to a prosperous Scotland.
Nearly 300 change-makers gathered at the Kingsmills Hotel to recognise the impact of the finalists and 10 winners. The evening was hosted by, STV News Reporter, Nicola McAlley with a performance from comedian Susie McCabe. You can see the full list here.
With the changing of the seasons, I have been really pleased to hear from our members in the tourism and hospitality sectors that this is not just marking the end of a busy summer, but also to the success of our region in extending the offering for visitors and tourists until much later in the year than was previously the case. Given the challenges of Covid on the sector, it is welcome news that businesses can continue to generate revenue through autumn and winter which in turn can support their viability and indeed growth.
Earlier this month, the First Minister unveiled Scotland’s Programme for Government and we support the focus on creating a wellbeing economy, on economic growth and the investment in childcare which is key to enabling more people to access meaningful work. We hope that the Scottish Government continues to work with businesses to deliver a new deal that prioritises a competitive business environment to help deliver a greener, fairer and growing economy. Implementation of the new deal for business recommendations will contribute to regaining the trust of Scottish businesses and strengthen the partnerships needed to unlock sustainable and inclusive growth.
The SCDI Highlands and Islands regional committee continue to drive our local policy agenda and our priority areas of infrastructure, housing and people, and skills will continue to be key in delivering our regional economic growth. With so many opportunities across existing and emerging industries there is no time to spare and we must take meaningful action to unlock the significant potential of the Highlands and Islands.
Grant Campbell is SCDI’s regional manager for the Highlands and Islands
