THE Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers (ASSC) has launched its own quality initiative, extending membership to businesses without a VisitScotland quality award (VSQA).
The ASSC is led and managed by those who own and run Scottish self-catering cottages and currently has over 600 members.
The Association was founded on its commitment to quality and high standards in self-catering and the emphasis on quality remains.
Self-caterers who choose the ASSC’s Committed to Quality (CTQ) option as an alternative to VSQA must be recognised in an online review system, show a commitment to engage in ongoing professional development and sign an annual declaration in order to have CTQ status.
David Smythe, chair of ASSC, said: “Visitors to Scotland get really fed up when they find the accommodation they’ve booked is not good enough.
“We ensure that all the holiday properties on our EmbraceScotland website are managed by owners who are committed to quality.”
He went on to say: “Our Association has been aware for some time that there are high quality self-catering businesses operating in Scotland outwith the VisitScotland grading scheme.
“By launching Committed to Quality, we are delighted to offer these businesses the opportunity to join us, where they will strengthen the voice of the sector and be able to take advantage of our marketing opportunities and member benefits.”
To mark this new initiative, the ASSC is offering any Scottish self-catering business the chance to win a year’s membership (worth £70 + VAT) and experience all the member benefits for free.
The prize draw will run until 28th April 2014 and is also open to existing members. Entry is via the ASSC Facebook page.
As well as the marketing opportunities with EmbraceScotland, member benefits also include a free availability calendar, a low-cost Web Booking Engine, an exclusive members’ area with guidance sheets and a discussion forum, plus discounts and specialist insurance.
Full details of the ASSC CTQ initiative can be found at www.assc.co.uk/join-us/quality-assurance.
ENDS
Editor’s notes:
ASSC (Association of Scotland’s Self Caterers) is the only trade association working exclusively for self-catering in Scotland.
Details of CTQ and how to join the ASSC – http://www.assc.co.uk/join-us/
Prize draw and terms and conditions – https://www.facebook.com/asscscotland/app_237202476309340
Benefits of membership – http://www.assc.co.uk/benefits/
LinkedIn – http://www.linkedin.com/company/association-of-scotland’s-self-caterers
Twitter – @ASSCNews
Marketing via www.embracescotland.co.uk
Contacts
David Smythe, chair – chairman@assc.co.uk – 07703 528099
Matthew Haggis, vice chair – matthew@assc.co.uk – 07967 011029
Emma Gibb, marketing & communications – emma@assc.co.uk – 07517 986126
PRESS RELEASE issued by the Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers. You too can post your story ideas for journalists (aka press or media releases), on allmediascotland.com. Email info@allmediascotland.com for more information.
Contact: Emma Gibb
Phone: 07517986126
Email: emma@assc.co.uk
Website: http://www.assc.co.uk
