HOTELIER turned hospitality lobbyist Willie Macleod has been recognised for the contribution he has made to the sector in a career spanning several decades,

writes Scott Wright.

Mr Macleod, who played a key role in the successful campaign against punitive hikes in business rates in the licensed trade last year, received the industry achievement prize at the SLTN Awards for 2018.

Now executive director of trade body UK Hospitality, which emerged from the former British Hospitality Association, Mr Macleod joined the industry in the 1960s and went on to work for Forte Hotels and other operators. His career has also included spells with the Scottish Tourist Board (now VisitScotland) and PwC, as part of the accountancy giant’s tourism team.

At UK Hospitality, he has campaigned for the industry on a range of issues, including moves to introduce a tourist tax, the impact of VAT (valued added tax) and Brexit.

The award for Mr Macleod was one of more than 20 presented to operators across the industry at this year’s SLTN Awards, held by trade publication Scottish Licensed Trade News.

Editor Gillian McKenzie said: “Pubs, bars, restaurants, clubs and hotels play a vital role in Scotland... and their importance must not be overlooked.”