Tourism

Tourism is one of Scotland’s key industries. In Glasgow, there are over 29,000 jobs in the tourism industry; around 7.6% of all Glasgow jobs. Tourism is worth over £4 billion each year to the Scottish economy, over £730 million to the Glasgow economy.

Glasgow has a great reputation as a tourist destination with attractions such as the Glasgow Science Centre, Braehead Shopping Centre & Arena and Xscape all facilities located near the river. The tourism industry along with the leisure and sport industries offer a wide range of jobs. They have the shared aim of helping people to enjoy their leisure time. All these industries have the potential for growth.

Glasgow is also a popular centre for conferences and is currently number 25 in the list of world premier conference destinations. There are plans to transform the SECC site into a complete exhibition, conference and entertainments complex. Scotland's new national arena will seat 12,500 and will be the largest entertainments venue in Scotland - and the only one of its scale in the UK built specifically for concerts and events.

Read our case study on tourism and leisure.

Key facts and figures

• Jobs in these industries have very different entry requirements. Some jobs demand specific qualifications while others require no formal qualifications.
• Most people in leisure, sport and tourism work irregular hours.  This can often involve shift, evening, weekend and bank holiday work; a number of jobs, particularly in tourism, are affected by seasonal variations.
• Good commuincation skills and a helpful attitude are important in most of these jobs. Organisational and teamwork skills are often required as well.

See weblinks for local employers.

For more information on tourism and related industries:

Springboard - promotes careers in hospitality, leisure, tourism and travel

People 1st - Sector Skills Council for hospotality, leisure, travel and tourism

SkillsActiveCareers - careers information on leisure, sport and recreation

Creative & Cultural Skills - information on working in the cultural heritage industry