Digital tools would unleash rural firms

RURAL businesses could add billions to the economy if they are given the tools to embrace digital technology, according to a report commissioned by Amazon.

More use of digital services by rural firms could add £1.2-£2.5 billion to Gross Value Added (GVA), according to Scotland’s Rural College and Rural England.

The report says this is on top of more than £30bn of GVA that Scotland’s rural economy already contributes in the UK.

Analysis published today also shows at least £1.44bn could be added to Scotland’s rural business turnover.

Dr Jane Atterton, of the Rural Policy Centre at SRUC, said: “With the right support, our report suggests there could be a substantial economic boost, not to mention the positive impact on the sustainability of communities including the most remote rural areas.”