The Association of Scottish Visitor Attractions (ASVA), which represents the attractions sector in Scotland, has announced that it will host its annual two-day Autumn Conference at the Crieff Hydro Hotel.
The conference will take place from 7-8 November 2019 and will be sponsored by Gateway Ticketing Systems.
Its theme will be ‘Best Practice Makes Perfect – How to deliver great experiences’. It aims to bring together a range of speakers, which will help visitor attractions to successfully deliver for every visitor.
Speakers will include:
• Rory Hil from the Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts in Norwich, will share tips for maximising retail spend from visitors.
• Aine McVerry, commercial director, MAC Belfast, will outline ways attractions can implement dynamic pricing policies.
• Michelle Emerson, marketing and development director, Eureka! The National Children’s Museum, will discuss how a cultural shift at Eureka has led to inclusion and accessibility.
• Scott MacLean, deputy managing director, Green Tourism, will highlight green practices designed to appeal to today’s eco-minded visitors.
• Bernard Donoghue, director of ALVA will be answering ‘what do your visitors want?’.
• Carole Keltie, head of operations, National Gallery and Bala McAlinn, director, Boo Productions, will both answer ‘what would life be if we had no courage to change anything?’.
• Stephen Whitelaw, CEO, Orthic Consulting, will provide a series of 1-2-1 ‘digital surgeries’ for delegates which is designed to help cure any digital ills.
ASVA will also create interactive breakout sessions which will allow delegates to gain tips on how to create memorable visitor experiences and learn how catering can drive success. It will also feature ‘pop up’ sessions which will include speakers from organisations such as Historic Environment Scotland, National Trust for Scotland and Live Borders.
Douglas Walker, chair of ASVA, said: “This year’s conference is ASVA’s biggest and most ambitious conference to date, with more practical, relevant content than ever before. With speakers focusing on specific areas of best practice, including topical concerns such as delivering memorable experiences, maximising income, staff motivation and development, engaging visitors, delivering a sustainable experience and ensuring your attraction is accessible to all.
“We are confident we have a programme that will be of interest to all within the attractions industry, regardless of size, role or attraction type.”
