A FREE industry guide has been launched to help businesses across Forth Valley make the most of growing demand for culinary experiences.

The Scotland Visitor Survey 2023 aims to help understand why people take a short holiday or break in this country and what they do while they are here.

Research has shown that almost half of visitors – around 46 per cent – took part in at least one food and drink activity.

Nearly one fifth (19 per cent) of visitors now name food and drink as a key reason for choosing Scotland as a destination.

Now, VisitScotland has created a free industry guide to help businesses create a quality food and drink tourism experience.

Lynsey Eckford, VisitScotland regional director, said: “Scotland’s reputation for food and drink is exceptional and Forth Valley is home to a diverse range of culinary delights from distilleries and farm shops, to top of the range restaurants and artisanal cafes.

“We know that promoting food and drink is a recipe for success and this free resource on our VisitScotland website will provide a clear and practical guide to help industry understand how to make the most of this growing demand for food and drink experiences.

“With particular demand for locally produced food and drink, developing this tourism offer can benefit those in the wider supply chain supporting communities and the economy as well as our own responsible tourism ambitions.”

This online guide will include market insight from the survey, marketing advice, local produce sourcing guidance, case studies and useful resources.

Access the guide here.