Mercat Tours kicks off 40th anniversary with A Day in Edinburgh, inspiring pupils to explore their city’s heritage and tourism career opportunities.
Mercat Tours has launched its 40th-anniversary year with “A Day in Edinburgh,” inspiring the next generation of storytellers and tourism professionals. The event welcomed 90 second-year local pupils from Holy Rood High School to kick-off its year-long celebrations.
Attended by Business Minister Richard Lochhead MSP, the event explored Edinburgh’s rich cultural heritage and career opportunities in tourism. Eight partners supported the initiative: Mercat Tours, Edinburgh Castle, Royal Yacht Britannia, Edinburgh Zoo, Camera Obscura, Rabbie’s Small Group Tours, Dovecot Studios, and Holyrood Distillery.
The brainchild of Managing Director Kat Brogan, since its launch in 2016 “A Day in Edinburgh” has given over 685 pupils confidence-building experiences, connecting them to Edinburgh’s history and tourism careers. Survey results show 95% of students leave with a stronger connection to their city and a greater appreciation for its culture.
Kat Brogan, Managing Director of Mercat Tours, said: “As we celebrate 40 years of giving Edinburgh’s history ‘a damn good telling,’ it’s fitting to start our anniversary by investing in the future. ‘A Day in Edinburgh’ is more than an educational day out—it ignites pride, ambition, and curiosity in young people while showcasing the vibrant, rewarding and diverse careers available in tourism. This initiative embodies what Mercat Tours stands for: connecting people to their past while inspiring their future.”
Business Minister Richard Lochhead said: “Tourism careers are vital to Scotland’s communities. This programme inspires future generations to consider opportunities in this vibrant sector, making it an invaluable initiative.”
James Campbell, Acting Depute, Holy Rood High School, added: “It will go a long way in raising aspirations and building the skills and confidence pupils need to engage in society as the young workforce of the future.”
“A Day in Edinburgh” kicks off Mercat Tours’ anniversary programme, which will feature events and initiatives throughout 2025. Further details will be revealed soon.
As the UK’s first and only Certified B Corporation™ visitor attraction and a Living Hours Employer, Mercat Tours exemplifies the ethos that “good business does good.” Programmes like A Day in Edinburgh ensure Edinburgh’s stories endure while inspiring young people to shape the city’s future.
