South of Scotland Destination Alliance
Strategic Destination Management and Marketing Organisation for the South of Scotland
An ambitious and inspiring community
The South of Scotland Destination Alliance (SSDA) was set up in May 2020. It is the strategic Destination Management and Marketing Organisation for the South of Scotland, encompassing Dumfries and Galloway and the Scottish Borders.
Their role is to promote the South of Scotland on a UK and international stage, to raise awareness and demand amongst visitors near and far, and to help businesses and communities in the long and the short term.
The SSDA is a platform for an ambitious and inspiring community as they develop a strong future for the region by transforming the South of Scotland into a year-round world-class destination, growing tourism spending in the region and increasing economic prosperity.
Why Choose the South of Scotland?
Supporting National Tourism Outlook 2030
SSDA Supports the National Tourism Outlook 2030 with its mission to grow the value and enhance tourism's benefits across Scotland. They are a key partner for the following 6 actions across 3 themes of the South of Scotland RES Delivery plan:
- Develop a collaborative programme of talent and attraction initiatives.
- Develop and implement an enhanced export support programme for businesses.
- Develop a South of Scotland cycling Strategy.
- Investigate the opportunities for augmenting and enhancing the events programme in the South of Scotland.
- Develop a South Scotland Responsible Tourism Destination Development & Marketing Strategy.
- Grow and expand locally based film/screen development opportunities.
"The South of Scotland is arguably one of the most unspoilt and stunningly beautiful parts of the UK. There’s so much to see, do and explore in the region – it’s one of the few parts of the country you can still truly discover. The area offers stunning beaches and coastline, delicious local food and drink, fascinating history and heritage, adventurous activities and a wealth of nature and wildlife."
David Ibbotson, Chair of South of Scotland Destination Alliance
South of Scotland Destination Alliance Ambition
Anyone driving, training or coaching to Scotland will arrive in the South first – the very first experiences, touchpoints, and memories of Scotland are forged here. Their ambition is to:
- Transform the South of Scotland into a year-round world-class destination, growing tourism spending in the region and increasing economic prosperity.
- Engage and connect with members, businesses, organisations and communities across the south of Scotland to realise the true potential of the region’s tourism offering, harness the collective power and show tourism as a force for good
- Work with members and partners to develop and promote a range and variety of outstanding visitor experiences that capture the attention and imagination of consumers to entice them to visit the South of Scotland.
- Project the South of Scotland onto a global stage by establishing the 'Scotland Starts Here' destination brand across the UK and in international markets, creating a compelling offer to attract visitors to the South of Scotland.
Full of Inspiration