The awards ceremony, run by Scotland’s national tourism organisation, VisitScotland, will hold three regional finals at Edinburgh’s Royal College of Physicians, Glasgow’s Hampden Park and Perth Racecourse, with a similar ceremony taking place for tourism companies based in the Highlands.
Stephen Carter, the Chair of the Thistle Awards Industry Panel and a board member for VisitScotland, said: “The Scottish Thistle Awards is an opportunity to recognise those that are going the extra mile to make a visit to Scotland an unforgettable experience.
“The sheer caliber of entries we have seen this year demonstrates the quality, commitment and dedication of individuals and businesses across the entire country.”
Sodexo have also announced that they will be sponsoring this year’s ‘Creative Ambition Award’. Finalists from each category from the regional awards will go on to attend the national Thistle Awards ceremony, which is due to be hosted at the Crowne Plaza in Glasgow in March 2015.
Amanda Brown, National Accounts Director for Prestige Venues & Events, said: “This is a very special national only award, which looks to recognise and celebrate entrepreneurial creativity and dedication within Scottish tourism.
“As a company that is passionate about food and drink, we are constantly looking for creativity and innovation, therefore, this award is one we can relate to and are very proud to sponsor.”
A team of Executive Chefs from PV&E will be working round the clock at all three venues to put together a five-star menu to whet the appetite of the industry partners in attendance.
For 20 years, the Scottish Thistle Awards have looked to celebrate success, innovation and dedication by those working in the Scottish tourism industry.
This year’s awards will have a particular focus on customer experience, while also looking to acknowledge and support excellence in Scottish tourism, as well as unwavering commitment to the tourism sector.
Sodexo Prestige is Sodexo’s sports, leisure and travel division that includes Prestige Venues & Events. The division has over 50 venues and events in its collection across the UK, 17 of which are based in Scotland.