We are delighted to invite you to an exclusive tourism event to celebrate East Lothian Business Week. This event is free and open to all tourism businesses based in East Lothian only.
We have a fantastic line up of speakers joining us who will share their expertise and insights to help you grow your business and navigate the dynamic world of tourism.
The day will be structured into two informative sessions, you are welcome to attend the morning session, the afternoon session or for the full day. You can indicate which session you wish to attend when you book. Lunch will be provided after the morning session and prior to the afternoon session.
The programme for the day is as follows:-
0930
Registration and Tea/Coffee
Start the day with refreshments and networking opportunities as you register for the event.
1000
Welcome - Provost John McMillan, East Lothian Council
1005
Morning Session: The Benefits of Film Tourism
Jenni Steele, Film & Creative Industries Manager, VisitScotland
Find out how film tourism can attract more visitors to destinations and significantly boost economic growth. From iconic film locations to lesser-known gems, discover how you can tap into the growing trend of film-inspired travel.
Rosie Ellison, Film Commissioner, Film Edinburgh
Understand the process of becoming a film production location. Find out how to register your site for potential film projects and understand what it takes to make your destination camera ready!
1130
Case Study: The Benefits of Being a Film Location
Stuart Maxwell, Regional Director, Edinburgh & East, National Trust for Scotland
Will share insights on the benefits of being a film location. From increased exposure and visitor engagement to economic advantages, learn how your site can thrive by becoming a backdrop for film and TV productions.
1145
Panel discussion and Q&A
1215
Lunch and Networking opportunity
1330
Afternoon Session: Navigating Online Travel Agents (OTAs)
Hear from industry experts about leveraging OTAs for your business and gain valuable knowledge on effectively utilising online travel platforms to enhance your online presence and reaching more visitors.
Daniel Hasselbach, UK Country Manager, Bokun
Will showcase their innovative online platform and provide insights on their integration with Viator and TripAdvisor. Learn where Bokun fits within this portfolio and how these platforms connect to drive greater visibility and bookings. Discover how Bokun's powerful tools can help you optimise your operators, enhance your listings and reach more travellers globally.
Kim Kjaerside, Account Manager, Expedia Group
A global leader in travel, Expedia will share their expertise on leveraging their extensive platform to connect your business with potential customers. Find out how you can increase your reach and drive more bookings through one of the world's most influential travel platform.
Patrick O'Shaughnessy, Industry Manager, Development, VisitScotland
Learn how to promote your business on VisitScotland's website, how to manage your listing and add media and facilities.
1500
Comfort Break
1515
Panel discussion and Q&A
1600
Session closes
