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Redeveloped National Museum of Scotland to Boost Economy

National Museums Scotland will contribute nearly £3 to the Scottish economy for every £1 invested by the Scottish Government when the redeveloped National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh opens next summer, according to a new report published today.

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.”