Suppliers' perceptions on engaging in smart destinations: Evidence from Ljubljana

Johnson, Abbie Gayle; McCabe, Scott; Rickly, Jillian M.

Abstract

Although it is acknowledged in research and practice that multiple, diverse tourism stakeholders are essential for the development of smart destinations, local tourism supplier participation is still lacking. There is limited understanding of how to engage suppliers in these collaborations, hence, this study explores suppliers' perceptions on their engagement with the development of smart initiatives in Ljubljana, Slovenia. A qualitative approach, based on semi-structured interviews was undertaken. The findings revealed that involvement in smart destination development is based on relational influences that were based on existing collaborative relationships. Organisational factors influenced supplier engagement prior to and during collaboration. Engagement influences are also specific to the destination context, which were related to historical cultural norms. These further facilitated or hindered suppliers' involvement. The paper draws valuable conclusions for leaders of smart developments, destination management organisations, tourism associations and businesses in Ljubljana and further afield where there is a need for implementation, integration and continuance of smart tourism initiatives.

Citation

Johnson, A. G., McCabe, S., & Rickly, J. M. (2023). Suppliers' perceptions on engaging in smart destinations: Evidence from Ljubljana. Tourism Management Perspectives, 47, Article 101125. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tmp.2023.101125

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: May 17, 2023
• Online Publication Date: May 26, 2023
• Publication Date: Jun 1, 2023
• Deposit Date: May 23, 2023
• Publicly Available Date: May 27, 2024
• Journal: Tourism Management Perspectives
• Print ISSN: 2211-9736
• Electronic ISSN: 2211-9744
• Publisher: Elsevier
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 47
• Article Number: 101125
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tmp.2023.101125
• Keywords: collaboration; destination; smart tourism; smart destination development; stakeholder engagement
• Public URL: https://nottingham-repository.worktribe.com/output/21102678
• Publisher URL: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2211973623000533