ASSC Scotland

02/07/2024

💚 Team ASSC is in Edinburgh preparing for our exciting Partner Event this evening!

We can’t wait to welcome our esteemed partners for an evening of insightful updates from Fiona Campbell and valuable networking opportunities with fellow partners and industry leaders. See you soon!

01/07/2024

Welcome to “On the Doorstep,” the first blog in our exciting summer marketing campaign: Embrace Authentic Scotland

If you would like to be part of this campaign, email us now [email protected] and find out how!

As we dive into summer, we're focusing on the hidden gems right 'On the Doorstep'. Our goal is to support local businesses and encourage our self-catering visitors to savour the authentic charm of Scotland at a more relaxed pace.

Stay Connected and Discover More:

💠 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EmbraceScotlandUK/

💠 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/embracescotland

💠 X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/embracescotland

We aim to inspire visitors to enrich their experiences and support the local communities they visit during their self-catering holidays. Here’s how:

💠 Shopping Local: Support small businesses and local markets to get a real taste of regional specialties and craftsmanship.

💠Exploring ‘What’s on the Doorstep’: Venture ‘off the beaten track’ to discover the less travelled paths and hidden gems that Scotland offers.

💠Embracing local flavours: From local eateries and farm shops to coastal fisheries, Scotland offers an incredible culinary experience to be enjoyed at a relaxed pace.

💠Nurturing slow adventure: Whether you walk, stroll, paddleboard or bike, there are plenty of activities that are off the beaten track to explore. Make sure you check in with your host / owner to find the true gems ‘on the doorstep’.

Read our blog and feel free to share -On the Doorstep: Embrace Authentic Scotland and Discover Hidden Gems: https://www.embracescotland.co.uk/article/on-the-doorstep-embrace-authentic-scotland-and-discover-hidden-gems

Let's embrace the beauty and culture of Scotland, one doorstep at a time!

01/07/2024

What would you say are the main challenges facing the Scottish tourism and hospitality industry? What should the next UK Government do to support tourism better?

"A critical item for all tourism businesses moving forwards is to get to grips with is the journey to net zero and how our industry will be part of that solution.

"For this journey to be possible at the pace that is required, businesses need to be profitable. Creating warm conditions for profitability will be an important contribution from government in partnership with the private sector. This assumes as a minimum, returning our national marketing agency, VisitScotland, to its pre-inflationary budget and over time improving its funding level. This is essential if Scotland is to compete on the world stage.

"It also requires meaningful and timely consultation with industry and consideration of wider implications of planned legislation across ministerial departments. Unfortunately, we have seen the consequences of the opposite or the ignoring of the advice and or warnings signalled by industry that has resulted in detrimental impact."

Rebecca Brooks, chair of the Scottish Tourism Alliance and boss of Abbey UK, addresses the big challenges facing the sector

28/06/2024

In this edition of the STA Industry Newsletter Update:

🏠Short-Term Let Licensing Scheme Update via ASSC Scotland
📣Scottish Covid-19 Inquiry: Business Owners Survey
💡Advice on navigating Covid-19 business interruption losses
🏆Scotland Food & Drink x NFU Mutual Scotland: Applications open for Inspirational Young Person Award 2024
🎟️Scotland’s summer of events gets underway
🤝Businesses launch partner campaign to drive tourism in Aberdeenshire

Read the full update here ➡️ tinyurl.com/9s2xuxr8

27/06/2024

'Stop demonising' plea as figures show empty homes outnumbering holiday lets

“Holiday lets have been taking the blame for the housing crisis for a long time but this research reveals the true picture.”

27/06/2024

The ASSC has warned that the Amendment Order provided “little more than minor tinkering around the edges” rather than the changes necessary for a key component of Scottish tourism, with jobs and livelihoods remaining at risk:

MSPs have backed a range of technical updates to the short-term lets licensing scheme in response to engagement with accommodation operators.

27/06/2024

“It is very disturbing to see evidence of a burgeoning black market in Edinburgh,” says Fiona Campbell, chief executive of the Association of Scottish Self-Caterers (ASSC). “This undermines the entire purpose of licensing and is yet another example of an own goal by policymakers.

“With costs soaring and supply plummeting, it is little wonder that the unscrupulous are seeking to take advantage through circumventing the rules.”

As cities clamp down on Airbnb, an underground holiday rental network is growing in places like New York City, Edinburgh and Barcelona

27/06/2024

Fiona Campbell, chief executive of the Association of Scotland Self Caterers, the industry body for self-catered accommodation hosts, said: “Clearly we are delighted that there has been some movement, but they have merely tinkered around the edges”.

But she added that the new provisional licence, which is designed to help landlords obtain mortgages on newly constructed holiday lets, may not be good enough for lenders.

“It’s meant to provide comfort that you will get your licence. But in reality it means you can’t because you can’t start trading until you actually do get your licence. It’s a waste of time,” she said.

Climbdown comes amid dwindling number of overseas visitors

27/06/2024

EmbraceScotland – Water Safety Guide: Keeping Safe in Scotland’s Coasts and Waters

Welcome to the latest EmbraceScotland Blog! Whether you’re a self-catering owner or a visitor exploring Scotland’s breathtaking coastlines, it’s essential to stay informed and safe. Share this useful guide with your guests, friends, and family to ensure everyone can safely enjoy the spectacular marine environments Scotland has to offer.

Scotland’s Coasts and Waters are renowned worldwide for their breathtaking beauty. From sparkling lochs and meandering rivers to the appeal of white sandy beaches and the inviting turquoise ocean. It is no wonder that with the arrival of warmer weather, an irresistible yearning arises within us to immerse ourselves in the wonders of water!

During these warm days, it’s crucial to prioritise water safety to ensure a pleasant and responsible experience. We’ve compiled a handy guide to help you enjoy Scotland’s outdoor water destinations while keeping safety at the forefront.

Whether you’re planning to take a dip in a tranquil loch, relax on the beach, or engage in water sports, here are some essential tips to keep in mind.

Read the Water Safety Guide here: https://www.embracescotland.co.uk/article/water-safety-guide


Embrace Scotland VisitScotland VisitScotland.org Scottish Tourism Alliance Scottish Agritourism Wild Scotland

26/06/2024

ASSC Comment on Approval of Short-Term Let Licensing Amendment Order

The Scottish Parliament has approved the Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982 (Licensing of Short-term Lets) Amendment Order 2024.

This made some amendments to the Scottish Government’s STL licensing scheme despite strong concerns from across the tourism industry that the measures did not go far enough.

Fiona Campbell, CEO of the Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers, said:

“Key Scottish tourism stakeholders are united in saying these amendments are insufficient to address business concerns. Nobody would expect the Scottish Government to adopt every industry recommendation but what is on the table is a paltry offering. It is akin to re-arranging the furniture on the deck of RMS Titanic whilst it sinks.

Sadly, commitments to cut red tape have bypassed a sector facing irreversible damage. We can’t keep kicking the can down the road and hoping for the best when small and micro businesses urgently need help now.

All licensing is doing is pushing up the costs of holidaying in Scotland, squeezing the supply of accommodation for our world-leading Festivals while generating a flourishing black market, damaging local businesses for no material benefit, and further legal challenges cannot be ruled out.

Our message to government is clear: there has to be real, tangible change otherwise more small indigenous Scottish businesses will continue to close, it is as simple as that.”

A further update will be shared on the ASSC website including detail such as the full recording and report.

26/06/2024

Fiona Campbell, ASSC CEO and Iain Muirhead, ASSC Board Director attended an extremely technical meeting regarding the overly complex conflation of short-term term licensing, planning and licensing regimes, with Minister for Finance, Ivan McKee today in Scottish Parliament.

Armed with further legal opinion from Burness Paul LLP, it’s now time to draw a line under unlawful policies.

26/06/2024

💚 ASSC Bi-Monthly News Update! 💚

ASSC members, check your email for all the latest updates including:

📅 CEO Surgery: Tonight, 26th June, 5pm - Join Fiona Campbell live and ask your self-catering questions.

📊 COVID-19 Inquiry Survey for Business Owners

📈 Updated Scottish Market Trends with Key Data - Pre-recorded Session

🎥 ASSC Talk Recording: Eureka Capital Allowances - Missed the talk? Watch the recording and learn how to maximise your capital allowances.

⚡ New Guidance Sheet - Boost your self-catering business with Battery Energy Storage Systems by Shire Energy Services.

🔄 Partner Renewal: WYM Rating - Business rate specialists continue their valuable partnership with us for another year.

🌊 Open Water Safety Guide - Ensure your guests enjoy Scotland’s stunning coasts safely with EmbraceScotland's comprehensive guide.

🏡 EmbraceScotland Marketing Campaign - Upgrade your membership and fill last-minute availability with our marketing platform.

📰 News Round-Up - Stay informed with the latest industry updates and media coverage.

📱 Join the ASSC "WhatsApp Community" - Engage with fellow members and stay at the forefront of industry insights.

Check your email for more details. 📧✨

If you are not an ASSC member, you can join now and start benefiting: https://www.assc.co.uk/join-the-assc

26/06/2024

Get your questions ready for tonight's CEO Surgery with ASSC, CEO, Fiona Campbell! 💚🎙️

The ASSC Member "CEO Surgery" takes place tonight, 26th June at 5 pm on Zoom. This is the perfect opportunity to have your queries answered and live, or to simply join and listen to informative discussions.

To join the CEO Surgery, click here at 5pm tonight: https://bit.ly/4eQTLtd

🗒️ Please note, these CEO Surgery sessions are not recorded, we encourage people to attend the live sessions and interact on or off camera 😀

🏡 Not a member of the ASSC and want to join? https://www.assc.co.uk/join-the-assc

26/06/2024

Catch up with the ASSC Member Exclusive video recording of the recent ‘Talk’ with Key Data…

(Make sure you are signed in as a member to view)

Are your booking numbers fluctuating?

Do you know why?

How does this year compare to the same period last year?

Understanding these trends and insights is crucial for staying ahead. If you’re unsure where to start, this video is tailor-made for you!

The Association of Scotland's Self-Caterers. Supporting self-catering in Scotland. ASSC Membership. Benefits. Advice. Representation.

25/06/2024

Do you have any burning questions for ASSC, CEO, Fiona Campbell? 🙋‍♀️🔥

The ASSC Member "CEO Surgery" takes place tomorrow, 26th June at 5 pm on Zoom. This is the perfect opportunity to have your queries answered and discussed live.

To join the CEO Surgery, click here at the time of the event: https://bit.ly/4eQTLtd

🗒️ Please note, these CEO Surgery sessions are not recorded, we encourage people to attend the live sessions and interact on or off camera 😀

🏡 Not a member of the ASSC and want to join? https://www.assc.co.uk/join-the-assc

25/06/2024

Scottish Government Short-Term Let Amendments Don’t Go Far Enough Say Leading Tourist Bodies

A number of leading Scottish tourism organisations state that the Scottish Government’s amendments to their short-term let licensing regulations do not go far enough in addressing business concerns.

This intervention comes ahead of the Minister for Housing Paul McLennan’s appearance at the Scottish Parliament’s Local Government Committee on 25th June – where he will provide evidence on the licensing 2024 Amendment Order – as well as Scottish Government commitments to foster a ‘New Deal with Business’ and reduce red tape.

Fiona Campbell, Chief Executive of the Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers, said:

“Key Scottish tourism stakeholders are united in saying these amendments are insufficient to address business concerns. Nobody would expect the Scottish Government to adopt every industry recommendation but what is on the table is a paltry offering. It is akin to re-arranging the furniture on the deck of RMS Titanic whilst it sinks.

"Sadly, commitments to cut red tape have bypassed a sector facing irreversible damage. We can’t keep kicking the can down the road and hoping for the best when small and micro businesses urgently need help now.

"All licensing is doing is pushing up the costs of holidaying in Scotland, squeezing the supply of accommodation for our world-leading Festivals while generating a flourishing black market, damaging local businesses for no material benefit, and further legal challenges cannot be ruled out.

"Our message to government is clear: there has to be real, tangible change otherwise more small indigenous Scottish businesses will continue to close, it is as simple as that.”

The Association of Scotland's Self-Caterers. Supporting self-catering in Scotland. ASSC Membership. Benefits. Advice. Representation.

24/06/2024

Action on housing emergency condemned as building standards legislation delayed.

"Fiona Campbell, chief executive of the ASSC, said: “Nobody would expect the Scottish Government to adopt every industry recommendation, but what is on the table is a rather paltry offering.

“Sadly, commitments to cut red tape have bypassed a sector facing irreversible damage, we can’t keep kicking the can down the road and hoping for the best when small and micro businesses urgently need help now.

“All licensing is doing is pushing up the costs of holidaying in Scotland, squeezing the supply of accommodation for our world-leading festivals, while generating a flourishing black market, damaging local businesses for no material benefit, and further legal challenges cannot be ruled out.”

Meanwhile, Scottish tourism bodies complain that the government’s short-term let licensing amendments don't go far enough

24/06/2024

💚 The next ASSC Member "CEO Surgery" takes place this coming WEDNESDAY 26th June at 5 pm (virtual). 🎙️

Prepare for a unique ‘member-only’ experience as ASSC Chief Executive, Fiona Campbell, steps into the spotlight to host the captivating live chat on Zoom.

🏡 Wednesday, 26th June at 5:00 pm
🏡 Zoom, online
🏡 Not a member of the ASSC and want to join? https://www.assc.co.uk/join-the-assc

To join the CEO Surgery: Click here at the time of the event - https://www.assc.co.uk/event/assc-ceo-surgery-for-members-with-fiona-campbell

Please note, you must be logged in as a member to view this page, and sessions are not recorded.

All attendees will have the opportunity to pose questions in the chat but are encouraged to engage and ask questions live. 😀

21/06/2024

The Local Government, Housing and Planning Committee will meet on Tuesday 25 June 2024 to consider the Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982 (Licensing of Short-term Lets) (Amendment) Order 2024.

The Minister for Housing, Paul McLennan, and Scottish Government officials will provide evidence to the Committee on the draft Order at this meeting.

The Minister will then move the following motion:

That the Local Government, Housing and Planning Committee recommends that the Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982 (Licensing of Short-term Lets) Amendment Order 2024 [draft] be approved.

You can access the full papers for the meeting of the Local Government Committee here:

The Association of Scotland's Self-Caterers. Supporting self-catering in Scotland. ASSC Membership. Benefits. Advice. Representation.

19/06/2024

Did you join us for yesterday's ASSC 'Talk' with Eureka Capital Allowances?
If you missed it, and you are a member of the ASSC, you will be above to soon view the recording in the members area of the ASSC website. We will let members know as soon as this is live.

Key 'Talk' Takeaways:

✅Typically the capital allowances that are to be claimed require the expertise of surveyors rather than accountants
✅CA Purchase Claims – widely unknown by property owners. Claim on items already in your property, items such as – see screenshot (Kitchens, desks, bars, security systems, alarms, swimming pools, extensions, carpets, heating and ventilation, fire alarms, bathrooms, electrics and lighting and much more)
✅Widely overlooked, there is a misconception that people think they don’t qualify, always good to get in touch for a free consultation to make sure
✅When will finer details emerge regarding FHL Abolition? We don’t know – we wait to hear
✅CA assessment is fully compliant with HMRC

Find out more about Eureka Capital Allowances and the Exclusive Member Offer on the ASSC website in the Trade Directory (please note the directory is currently in alphabetical order): https://www.assc.co.uk/holiday-let-trade-suppliers

19/06/2024

We are so thrilled that the ASSC Scotland is partnering with Sustonica to help support the association's members on their sustainability journey.

Shorttermrentalz covered the news in their website https://shorttermrentalz.com/news/sustonica-assc-partnership-responsible-tourism/ and Holiday Cottage Handbook in their newsletter. Thank you!

The ASSC joins our growing list of associations, DMOs, consultancies and sustainability programs worldwide that partner with us: https://www.sustonica.com/our-partners/ 💚 🌍

18/06/2024

Weekly Update: ASSC Chief Executive in Action

Fiona Campbell, ASSC Chief Exec has a week planned to address crucial matters across Scotland's self-catering industry. Here’s a glimpse into her key activities this week:

1. Addressing Planning Control Areas:
Fiona is actively tackling significant concerns regarding the implementation of planning control areas in both the City of Edinburgh and Badenoch and Strathspey. Her efforts include engaging in multiple meetings and seeking expert legal advice to navigate these issues.

2. Visitor Levy Expert Group:
This week, Fiona will take part in discussions with the Visitor Levy Expert Group. The meeting will focus on updating the statutory guidance in response to the recently passed Visitor Levy (Scotland) Bill.

3. Scottish Thistle Awards:
Fiona continues her involvement in the Scottish Thistle Awards judging process. She noted, "It is such a joy to see more nominations than ever from every corner of Scotland. Despite the extreme pressure and stress these businesses are under, this outpouring of entries highlights the professionalism, innovation, resilience, and sheer brilliance of the operators within Scotland's self-catering community."

17/06/2024

🔔 TOMORROW - Get Tickets While You Still Can! 🔔 You Could be Owed Thousands in Unclaimed Capital Allowance Tax Relief!

🎟️ Don't miss our next ASSC Talk with Eureka Capital Allowances: https://bit.ly/45cmFzf

Join us for an exclusive session with Jason Batty from Eureka Capital Allowances and ASSC. Learn how to potentially save thousands of pounds in tax relief before the FHL Abolition.

📅 Date: Tuesday, June 18th
⏰ Time: 11am
💻 Where: Zoom (link provided after registration)

Secure your spot now and discover how Eureka can help you and your business maximise your capital allowances. ASSC members can attend for FREE with a promo code!

17/06/2024

The Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers [ASSC], representing thousands of self-catering operators in Scotland, and sustainability certification provider Sustonica have announced a strategic partnership to promote responsible tourism in Scotland’s self-catering community.

The collaboration marks the first time that a Scottish short-term rental association has endorsed a global sustainability certification label, emphasising the growing importance of sustainable and responsible tourism in the short-term rental sector.

Through the partnership, the ASSC wants to demonstrate its commitment to promoting sustainable practices among its members. By recommending the Sustonica sustainability label, ASSC is encouraging property owners and managers within its network to adopt measures that reduce environmental impact and strengthen the local short-term tourism sector.

Fiona Campbell, chief executive of the ASSC, said: “Supporting our members on their sustainability journey is a big part of our commitment to promoting responsible tourism, and partnering with Sustonica, an innovative, global, user friendly platform will help us achieve our mission. This collaboration allows us to offer our members a tangible way to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and to their guests, setting a new standard in the industry.”

ASSC partners with Sustonica to promote responsible tourism: Read on for more information at our ShortTermRentalz website.

17/06/2024

"A tourist tax is set to take tens of millions out of the pockets of the one in four Scots who decide to holiday at home, leading to calls for local authorities to boycott it."

https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/24389420.revealed-multi-million-pound-stealth-tax-hit-scots/?ref=suit

16/06/2024

🔔 Just Two Days Away! 🔔 You Could be Owed Thousands in Unclaimed Capital Allowance Tax Relief - Find Out for FREE!

🎟️ Get your tickets now: https://bit.ly/45cmFzf

Meet Jason Batty Director of Eureka Capital Allowances:

Before entering the world of capital allowances eight years ago, Jason spent over a decade in financial services as an owner of a specialist mortgage company.

Spotting an opportunity in the market, Jason co-founded and grew a capital allowances consultancy before creating Eureka in 2021 with his team. Jason has a passion for helping businesses decrease their costs and increase their profits.

Join for an exclusive session with Jason Batty and ASSC. Learn how to potentially save thousands of pounds in tax relief before the FHL Abolition.

15/06/2024

⏳ Just a Few Days Until the ASSC Talk! ⏳ You Could be Owed Thousands in Unclaimed Capital Allowance Tax Relief!

🎟️ Don't miss our next ASSC Talk with Eureka Capital Allowances: https://bit.ly/45cmFzf

Take a look at another amazing saving Eureka managed to save their client in the image below!

Eureka offers a free forensic review to ensure you capture all eligible Capital Allowances.

Secure your spot now and discover how Eureka can help you and your business maximise your capital allowances. ASSC members can attend for FREE with a promo code!

14/06/2024

🔔 Remember to Get Your Ticket! 🔔 You Could be Owed Thousands in Unclaimed Capital Allowance Tax Relief!

🎟️ Don't miss our next ASSC Talk with Eureka Capital Allowances: https://bit.ly/45cmFzf

Join us on Tuesday, June 18th at 11am for an exclusive session with Jason Batty from Eureka Capital Allowances and ASSC. Learn how to potentially save thousands of pounds in tax relief before the FHL Abolition.

📅 Date: Tuesday, June 18th
⏰ Time: 11am
💻 Where: Zoom (link provided after registration)

Secure your spot now and discover how Eureka can help you and your business maximise your capital allowances. ASSC members can attend for FREE with a promo code!

13/06/2024

💚 Fiona Campbell attended todays SuperControl Self-Catering Summit today in Dumfries!

"Delighted to have attended the South of Scotland Self-Catering Summit today in Dumfries, sponsored by SuperControl. It was wonderful to have caught up with so many ASSC members and partners including KeyData, Discover Scotland, Creatomatic, and ACT Studios." - Fiona Campbell, ASSC, CEO