Industry

What is Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers (ASSC)?

Updated 2026-05-28

The Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers (ASSC) is the leading trade body for the traditional self-catering sector in Scotland. It serves to represent, promote, and support its members, which range from individual property hosts to large-scale operators.

The ASSC actively engages in advocacy with the Scottish Government and other public bodies to influence policy and legislation affecting the industry. It also provides a platform for networking, knowledge-sharing, and upholding professional standards among its members.

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How it works

The ASSC operates as a member-funded organization, acting as the collective voice for Scotland's self-catering industry. It lobbies policymakers by submitting evidence, responding to consultations, and maintaining dialogue on key issues like short-term let licensing and taxation.

For its members, the ASSC provides access to a wide range of resources, including legal advice, business guidance, marketing opportunities, and industry-specific data. It also organizes events, webinars, and an annual conference to facilitate professional development and collaboration within the sector.

Why it matters

For vacation rental operators in Scotland, the ASSC is a vital resource for navigating the country's unique regulatory landscape. Its advocacy is crucial in shaping fair and practical legislation, such as the licensing schemes implemented by local councils.

Membership provides operators with essential support, credible information, and a sense of community, helping them to run their businesses more effectively and professionally. By promoting quality and best practices, the association also helps to enhance the reputation of the self-catering industry as a whole.

Examples

  • A host in Edinburgh uses the ASSC's legal guidance to correctly navigate the application process for the city's short-term let license.
  • An owner of several cottages in the Highlands attends an ASSC regional meeting to connect with other local operators and discuss challenges related to rural tourism.
  • A new property manager joins the ASSC to access their directory of trusted suppliers, finding a reliable local cleaning company and professional photographer.
  • During a government consultation on a potential visitor levy, the ASSC surveys its members and submits a detailed report representing their collective views to policymakers.

Frequently asked questions

What are the main benefits of joining the ASSC?+
Primary benefits include advocacy and representation at a national and local level, access to a members' helpline for business and legal advice, industry-specific updates, networking events, and discounts on supplier services.
Does the ASSC represent only large property management companies?+
No, the ASSC represents a diverse range of members, including individual owners of a single property, owners of multiple holiday lets, and larger agencies and property management companies.
How does the ASSC influence Scottish tourism policy?+
The ASSC influences policy through direct lobbying of Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs), engaging with local authorities, submitting formal responses to government consultations, and providing data-driven research on the economic impact of the self-catering sector.
Is the ASSC affiliated with other UK tourism bodies?+
Yes, the ASSC works closely with other regional and national bodies, such as the Professional Association of Self-Caterers UK (PASC UK), to address issues affecting the self-catering industry across the United Kingdom.
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