Research

Sustainable product development for inclusive tourism

Case studies show the need for cooperation between stakeholders

Publication
Joachim Josef Nigg & Sarah Schönherr (2021)

Inclusive tourism depends on stakeholder collaboration.

Values of the region should be transported through inclusive offers.

Consideration of ecological, social and economic sustainability

Tourism for all as a core value.

Summary of this study

The remarkable potential of accessible tourism has been demonstrated in several studies, leading to increasing efforts in the tourism industry to develop inclusive destinations that are accessible to all. However, there are still challenges in the development of inclusive tourism.

This study examines product development for inclusive tourism by looking at four pilot regions that have developed and implemented products for people with disabilities in the past. Data was collected through qualitative interviews with managers of these product developments and the websites of the respective regions were analyzed. The results show that product development for people with disabilities strongly depends on the direct cooperation of all stakeholders and the participation of people with disabilities. In order to increase the acceptance and authenticity of inclusive tourism offers, these should also be based on the underlying values of a destination. Furthermore, the study points out that sustainable product development for accessible tourism in accordance with the triple bottom line (social, ecological and economic) is based on the principles of sustainable tourism. Both theoretical and practical implications for tourism facilities and tourism associations can be derived from this.

Findings

Communicating the core values of a destination as a philosophy: Sustainable product development for accessible tourism should be based on the core values of a destination, such as nature, culture and leisure, and serve as a fundamental philosophy.
"Tourism for all" as a core value of social sustainability: The study emphasizes that product development should not only consider people with disabilities, but must include all potential visitors to a destination - including seniors, families, pregnant women or people with temporary disabilities.
Digitalization as an enabler for environmental sustainability:Digitalization can drive sustainable product development in inclusive tourism. Digital solutions such as virtual reality or iBeacon applications can help to make nature experiences accessible to people with disabilities without having to make physical adjustments in sensitive natural regions.
Stakeholder cooperation and involvement of the target group are essential: The success of sustainable product development for accessible tourism depends heavily on the direct cooperation of all stakeholders, especially the ongoing involvement of people with disabilities themselves. Feedback from the target groups as well as from service providers, communities and organizations for people with disabilities is crucial for the design of the products.

Joachim Josef Nigg & Sarah Schönherr (2021)

Sustainable product development for inclusive tourism

Summary of this study

Findings

Prepared for what lies ahead in tourism