An independent report has shown that, despite a weekday down turn in hotel occupancy, the work being undertaken by VisitAberdeen to market the city as a weekend break destination is reaping rewards.
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Demand for weekend hotel rooms increased in January and February by almost 9% compared to the same period in 2014 according to the STR global report. Revenue from hotel rooms on Friday and Saturday nights has also increased by more than 12%.
One of VisitAberdeen’s main objectives is to attract increased weekend visitors to the city. A key measure of this success is to demonstrate greater demand for Friday and Saturday night bedrooms in the city.
Steve Harris, Chief Executive of VisitAberdeen says, “It is very encouraging that our marketing of the city as a weekend break destination is paying off for businesses across the area. Increased numbers of people staying in hotels at weekends means more people eating, drinking and shopping as well as visiting attractions. Importantly too, all of these visitors will also spread the word about our beautiful city and surroundings encouraging even more people to take weekend breaks here.
“At a time when the hospitality industry is facing a downturn in some areas, in particular discretionary business travel relating to the oil and gas industry, it’s good to see that the city is carving a niche as a short break destination.
“We’re getting the message out there that Aberdeen at a weekend is great value. Sainsbury’s online magazine Tried and Tasted recently published a feature on the area saying that we’re “good value” with “quality restaurants, bars and hotels”, that Aberdeen is “very pretty” and that “some of the best food and drink in the world is here”. We need to continue to shout about what a great city we have for visitors and to sustain and develop our marketing activity further.”
VisitAberdeen is a partnership between Aberdeen City Council and the industry, the board is chaired by Colin Crosby and includes representatives from Aberdeen Inspired, Aberdeen City and Shire Hotels Association, Aberdeen City Council and independent members. For further information contact VisitAberdeen on 01224 900491.
