Fair, inclusive, responsible is the way ahead

Tourism businesses seeking Welsh Government support must enter into a new Economic Contract aimed at driving fair work, inclusive growth and responsible business behaviours.

This was the message from Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Transport Ken Skates as he launched the new Economic Contract– one of the key policies of the Welsh Government’s Economic Action Plan.

The Plan sets out our new approach to economic development focused on building strong foundations for inclusive growth, supercharging the industries of the future and empowering Wales’ regions.

The announcement also marked the launch of our new Economy Futures Fund, which will streamline and consolidate a range of existing funding schemes: the Tourism Investment Support Scheme offer will be absorbed into the Economy Futures Fund and will be subject to the new operating model, allowing us to respond to the unique opportunities and challenges in the tourism industry and highlight best practice already in place.

Over the coming months we will continue to take forward wider aspects of the Plan, including our focus on tourism as a foundation sector. This will build on the solid foundations and partnerships already in place to support opportunities for growth and innovation and address any challenges.

Launched during Year of the Sea, Adventure Smart Wales is a new campaign asking visitors to take a little time to plan their day to help ensure that they’ll be safe and comfortable whilst enjoying our beautiful coast and countryside.

Whatever their activity, adventuresmartwales.com provides practical information such as what gear to wear, the weather forecast and tides/sunset times.  There is also a toolkit for tourism businesses to help spread the word and get customers out enjoying great Welsh adventures!

With funding from the Visit Wales Tourism Product Innovation Fund and additional contributions from Snowdonia National Park Authority, British Mountaineering Council, Welsh Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and Welsh Sports, Adventure Smart Wales is a collaborative project involving the many organisations who want to promote the safe enjoyment of the Welsh outdoors. This includes Mountain Rescue Teams, Police, National Parks, National Governing Bodies, RNLI, Local Authorities, Sport Wales and many more.