The North Coast 500 – the 517-mile road trip from Inverness and around the coastline of the Northern Highlands of Scotland – is looking to benefit from the increased level of local tourism this summer, with a brace of licensees joining the programme.
A recent survey of 4,000 people to gauge appetite for the route once the pandemic subsides, showed that 80% were still keen to tour the Highlands once restrictions are lifted. In 2019, it was estimated that the NC500 boosted the economy by £22.89 million within the Northern Highlands region which helped create 179 new jobs.
“It’s extremely encouraging to see that a significant number of visitors are already rescheduling their plans to visit the NC500 this summer, into 2021 and beyond,” said Tom Campbell, executive chairman of NC500. “We are proud of the financial impact we have made to the region. To continue to increase this key component of our strategy, we have invested in new brand identity along with a comprehensive style guide to allow partners, licensees and others to get involved and work with us on the longer term vision.”
Licensing Link Europe, which handles the NC500 licensing programme, has recently welcomed Star Editions – which has signed a personalisation deal for the route – while local artist Roy Anstey will be creating holiday keepsakes and souvenirs.
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