Stuart McCallum

The data, compiled and produced by STR and analysed by RSM, shows the average occupancy rate in Scotland has risen from 64% on July 2021 to 71% in August, but despite a staycation boost, Scotland didn’t reach ‘The Festival’ driven pre-pandemic highs of 86% occupancy rates in 2019.

By comparison, the average UK occupancy rate also increase six per cent to 71% in August from 65%  in July 2021. The average room rate across the UK has almost recovered to pre-pandemic levels at £94, with Scotland reaching £98, up from £86 the previous month. In addition, revenue per available room across Scotland was £70 in August 2021, up from £36 in 2020; but still behind pre-pandemic levels at £93.

Stuart McCallum, RSM UK’s head of hotels and accommodation in Scotland, said: “The hotel sector is on the right track with a welcome staycation boost driving occupancy levels up again this month. Scotland saw marked improvement but without international travel and the ‘Festival’ boost over August, occupancy rates fell short of pre-pandemic levels.

“Staff shortages continue to impact the sector which is starting to push up wage costs – applying acute financial pressure as the sector looks to recover post-Covid. Looking forward, travel restrictions for the double jabbed and the re-opening of travel corridors to the US will hopefully fuel further growth as the hotel sector looks to enjoy a post-summer boom and busy build up to the festive period.”