Operating small tourism firms in rural destinations: A social representations approach to examining how small tourism firms cope with non-tourism induced changes. (February 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lai, Po-Hsin; Morrison-Saunders, Angus; Grimstad, Sidsel
• Is Part Of: Tourism management. Volume 58(2017)
• Page Start: 164
• Page End: 174
• Publication Date: 2017-02
• Subjects: Small tourism firms -- Rural destinations -- Social representations theory -- Non-tourism induced changes -- Coping; Tourism -- Periodicals; 338.4791
• DOI: 10.1016/j.tourman.2016.10.017
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0261-5177

Abstract

Abstract: This study explores the representation that owners and managers of small tourism firms ascribe to their rural destination and how non-tourism induced changes interfere with this representation and motivate coping as guided by social representations theory. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with twenty-four owners and/or managers of at least one small accommodation property in Gloucester, New South Wales, Australia. The informants became involved in the area's accommodation sector primarily driven by the lifestyle goals embedded in their representation of Gloucester. The perception that mining-induced changes might transform Gloucester into a mining town as opposed to its current representation as a town with a mine has motivated many informants to cope. However, coping is impeded by feelings of powerlessness, perceived uncertainties, and distrust in both government and industry. The findings provide preliminary insight into why and how small tourism firm owners/managers cope when faced with change from the perspective of social representations. Highlights: Small tourism firms in rural destinations are constantly challenged by industry related and external changes. Representations of a rural destination by small tourism firm owners and managers are explored. Coping is mobilised by perceived threats to the destination's representation. Implementation of coping is not without difficulties and concerns. Collaborative planning with stakeholders concerned about rural development is needed.