Seasonality and regional productivity in the Spanish accommodation sector. (December 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Saito, Hisamitsu; Romão, João
• Is Part Of: Tourism management. Volume 69(2018)
• Page Start: 180
• Page End: 188
• Publication Date: 2018-12
• Subjects: Tourism -- Regional development -- Productivity accounting; Z32 -- D24 -- R11; Tourism -- Periodicals; 338.4791
• DOI: 10.1016/j.tourman.2018.06.005
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0261-5177

Abstract

Abstract: This study quantifies the impact of peak demand and seasonality on regional productivity in the Spanish accommodation sector. We then identify factors affecting seasonal fluctuations and their relative contributions to regional variations in seasonality. The results show that demand for accommodation in the peak season mainly determines productivity. Thus, improving a region's attractiveness as a tourist destination is most effective for tourism-based regional development. In addition, reducing seasonal variations has a non-negligible impact on productivity. A decomposition analysis reveals that providing climate-independent tourist attractions and attracting business travelers are effective in reducing seasonality. Highlights: The peak demand mainly determines productivity in the Spanish accommodation sector. Reducing seasonality has a non-negligible impact on productivity. Providing climate-independent tourist attractions is effective to reduce seasonality.