A Journey into Wonder and Fair Wage
Camera Obscura & World of Illusions isn’t only set apart by its location at the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town. A long-time tourist favourite, it offers visitors a magical experience: over 100 interactive sense defying exhibits, from the Vortex Tunnel that will leave you staggering to the Ames Room that shrinks you down or blows you up. But beyond all this, it is its underlying commitment to fairness and staff welfare that truly makes it special.
This comes from recognition of the significant impact fair pay has on the tourism industry. Committing to the real Living Wage not only enhances the lives of employees but also enriches the visitor experience. Fairly paid employees are happier, more motivated, and deliver service that is both warm and enthusiastic, mirroring the magical environment they work in.
The Real Living Wage: A Game Changer for Employees
Speaking with some of the team members at Camera Obscura, it’s clear that earning the real Living Wage is a transformative experience. One employee shared that:
‘Knowing that my employer values my effort and time enough to pay a real Living Wage makes coming to work enjoyable. It makes me feel respected and valued.’
This sentiment is common among the staff, who often go above and beyond to ensure visitors have a memorable experience.
The real Living Wage not only helps in retaining talent but also attracts a diverse pool of enthusiastic candidates who are passionate about providing a top-notch tourist experience. Another team member mentioned:
‘Working for a Living Wage employer gives me a sense of security and pride. I am proud to be part of an organisation that is considered a leader in both tourism and employee welfare.’
The Employer’s Perspective
From an employer’s perspective, adopting the Living Wage has been equally beneficial. Tony Millar, Manager at Camera Obscura, said:
‘It’s a clear statement of our values. We see it as an investment in our people and, by extension, in our business’s success. The benefits – reduced turnover, increased staff morale, and enhanced reputation – far outweigh the costs.’
Moreover, the commitment to the Living Wage has strengthened their position in Scotland’s competitive tourism market. It sets Camera Obscura apart as an ethical business where visitors can enjoy themselves knowing that the staff are treated fairly and with respect. This was recognised on a national stage, when Camera Obscura won Tourism and Hospitality Employer of the Year award in the annual VisitScotland Thistle Awards at the end of 2024.
A Call to Action
As we continue to celebrate the marvels of Scottish tourism, we must also embrace the practices which make it sustainable and fair. Camera Obscura & World of Illusions exemplifies how the tourism industry can enhance visitor experiences and lead in social responsibility by supporting the Living Wage.
Tony Millar summed this up:
‘We invite other tourism businesses to consider the long-term benefits of the Living Wage. It’s not just good for employees; it’s good for business and essential for a thriving tourism sector that values the people who power it.’