Abstract
In an era where tourism is dominated by requests for tailored experiences,
SMEs play a key role in providing adequate products and
services to tourists by responding to their most specific requirements.
This paper uses network and clusters as a framework providing SMEs
with innovative opportunities to operate in a competitive
tourism environment. A review of relevant literature on clusters,
networks and tourism business innovation is undertaken, then focusing
on the specific issues of Healthy Lifestyle Tourism.
The UK ‘Healthy Lifestyle Tourism Cluster’ experience is employed
to discuss the process and the implication of network and cluster
development in tourism. However, the development of clusters should
not be seen as a simple and spontaneous process due to the nature
of businesses involved, but as a very complex process linked to strong
stakeholder collaboration.
r 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
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