Businesses across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire are invited to find out how to get on board the “high tide of opportunity” arriving with the Tall Ships Races this summer.
A free webinar is being held on Tuesday 18 February, to offer practical advice, information and resources so local businesses can make the most of this once-in-a-generation opportunity which will bring 400,000 visits to Aberdeen.
More than 270 have already signed up and organisers are urging more to join the event to make sure they don’t miss out.
Top speakers from The Tall Ships Races Aberdeen 2025, VisitScotland and its EventScotland team, VisitAberdeenshire and Aberdeen Inspired, will steer those attending on the right course to get involved and tap into the “limitless possibilities” during the event from 19-22 July.
The webinar, running from 10am to 11.30am, will be an inspirational session full of advice and guidance you can use. This includes an opportunity for Q&A.
Businesses will hear from:
- Matthew Williams, Aberdeen City Council
- Nadia Cesari, EventScotland
- Laura Delaney and Millie Clarke, VisitAberdeenshire
- Lynette McLennan, VisitScotland
- Kate Timperley, Aberdeen Inspired
David Jackson, VisitScotland Regional Director, said: “The Tall Ships races are a showpiece event in Scotland’s 2025 calendar, and we’re excited to be working with all the host partners to help realise the incredible opportunity it provides Aberdeen and the wider region. It is gearing up to be one of the biggest events in the city and the North-east for a generation.
“A predicted audience of 400,000 over the four days provides a huge opportunity for businesses to benefit – from city centre retailers, cafes and restaurants to local attractions and accommodation providers – both in the city and further afield.
“We’re pleased to host the industry webinar on behalf of the organising partners which will show businesses how they can engage with, and capitalise on, this major event.”
Adrian Watson, chief executive of Aberdeen Inspired said the experience of Hartlepool in hosting the Tall Ships Races two years ago was a signpost to the economic impact Aberdeen and its businesses might see.
A post-event survey from Hartlepool concluded the Tall Ships created a total economic impact of more than £12.5 million for their local economy. It also said for every £1 invested a social value of £9.61 was created.
Adrian said: “Those figures alone are reason enough for local businesses and traders to join the webinar to find out all they can about how to get involved, and how they can maximise the benefits the Tall Ships will bring.”
“Aberdeen will be the only place to be in Scotland for those four days in July as more than 50 magnificent ships berth at the Port of Aberdeen, drawing in hundreds of thousands of visits.
“There truly are limitless opportunities for local businesses to catch the high tide of massive economic benefits the Tall Ships will bring to the Granite City and the entire region.”
Councillor Martin Greig, Chair of the Tall Ships Organising Committee, said: “The Tall Ships Races 2025 will be the biggest event Aberdeen has hosted in a generation with 50 ships and crews from worldwide, internationally renowned music acts and an expected 400,000 visits over the four-day spectacular.
“The opportunities for city businesses are enormous, not only through increased footfall but through active participation in the festival. I would encourage business owners to attend the webinar and find out just how they can share in the benefits the Tall Ships will bring.”
Registration for this event is essential, so make sure you book your space today here.
