Scottish Tourism Alliance chief executive receives MBE
Figures from across Scotland’s hospitality and food and drink industries have been recognised in this year’s Queen’s Birthday Honours list.
James Walker, director of Aberlour-based Walker’s Shortbread, received a Knighthood for services to the food industry; while brothers Ian and Michael Urquhart, who both led Elgin-based Gordon & MacPhail, were each awarded a CBE for services to the Scotch whisky industry and to charity.
And Scottish Tourism Alliance (STA) chief executive Marc Crothall received an MBE for services to the tourism industry in Scotland.
Crothall, who has worked in the hospitality and tourism industries for more than 40 years, said he was “incredibly honoured and extremely humbled” by the award.
“I feel very privileged to have been entrusted to lead the STA, a job that I love doing,” he said.
“The organisation would not have the strength and stature it has today were it not for the hard work, dedication and resilience of our member businesses and patrons. I have also been supported and guided by the STA board, council and my immensely hard working and talented team; a great many have contributed in a number of ways and I must thank them all for their unwavering support and generous amounts of time given these past ten years.
“My focus will continue to be steered by Scotland’s tourism strategy vision, that Scotland will be the world leader in 21st century tourism; our sector can deliver benefits for not only Scotland’s economy but for our businesses, communities and people. If supported by effective policies, tourism can deliver prosperity for Scotland and act as a force for good.”
