Exploring Toursim

Tourism Supply

Tourism Supply

• Tourism supply is a complex phenomenon because of both the nature of the product and the process of delivery.

• Principally, it cannot be stored – it is a perishable product

• It is intangible so it cannot be examined prior to purchase

• It is necessary to travel to consume it

Tourism Supply

• There is a heavy reliance placed on both natural and constructed resources

• Several components are required, which may be separately or jointly purchased

• It is a composite product involving transport, accommodation, attractions and activities, entertainment, travel agents and ancillary services e.g. banks, shops

Tourism Supply

• Transport and information technology are key elements

• Relies on inter-sector linkages – one industry concept

• Political factors influence regulatory framework in which the tourism industry operates

• Policy, planning and development issues

Public sector role in tourism supply

• Local authority e.g. DCC provides services, facilities and infrastructure

• Provide, manage and co-ordinate services which meet the needs of both locals and visitors

• Responsible for economic and social development, licensing, planning, roads and transport, support for events, operation of facilities e.g. museums, gardens, art galleries, entertainment venues etc

Local government role in tourism supply

• Infrastructure

• Visitor attractions

• Information

• Care of environment

• Security and safety

• Signage

• Support for tourism development

Private sector in tourism supply

• Small businesses

• Lifestyle and/or profit

• Trans-national and global companies

Not for profit sector in tourism supply

• Volunteer

• Custodians of state resources

• Long term protection of natural and built assets

• Not profit driven