The 2023/24 Scottish Association Survey, conducted by VisitScotland Business Events, shows that high-value inbound association conferences generated nearly £ 350 million in net additional economic impact—an 100 % increase on 2022/23 when measured in current prices. The sector also supported a record number of jobs and delivered an average of over £900,000 in delegate spend per event.

Delegate Growth and Off-Peak Activity Drive Visitor Economy

Delegate attendance climbed to 146,000—a 55 % rise year-on-year—while the total number of association events increased by 12 % to 317. Events averaged 2.7 days in length, with 40 % held in Scotland’s traditional shoulder and low seasons between October and March.