The report commissioned by National Museums Scotland and
compiled by independent consultants Biggar Economics, projects that
£58.1 million in Gross Value Added (GVA) per year will be generated
for the Scottish economy, supporting over 2600 full time equivalent
(fte) jobs. In Edinburgh alone, this equates to £39.9 million GVA
and 1,772 fte jobs in the economy.
In addition to the economic benefits, the report emphasises the
importance of National Museums Scotland in helping sustain and
enhance the tourism economy for Scotland and its capital, noting
that world class museums are a proven driver of contemporary
international tourism.
The report also notes the relevance of National Museums Scotland
to business, highlighting the scale and quality of spaces for
corporate hospitality and events, and the wider importance of
culture in terms of attracting investment and retaining
high-quality employees. National Museums Scotland is also a centre
for unique learning experiences, from school visits to informal
events for families - inspiring people of all ages and boosting
creativity.
The economic impact of National Museums Scotland’s activity
extended to across Scotland’s 32 local authority areas last year.
In addition to having operations in four local authority areas, it
also has an impact through procurement and an extensive outreach
programme. Museums are major attractions locally and nationally,
with high footfall all the year round, high visitor satisfaction,
and consistent investment in development.
Dr Gordon Rintoul, Director of National Museums Scotland
said:
“This Report underlines the significant economic benefit that
the redeveloped National Museum of Scotland will bring to Edinburgh
and Scotland when it opens next summer. It shows the real financial
contribution that we make to Scotland’s economy, both through the
visitors we attract and the projects, business and employment that
we support through our activities. Our Museums and collections are
a key social, cultural and educational asset for our nation, and
this report confirms our place as one of the key contributors to
the competitiveness of Edinburgh and Scotland’s unique tourism
offer.”