The Mzantsi Restaurant project is a project that focuses on social, community, and economic development through the enhancement of marketing and its business model. Because the success of the restaurant relies on its customers, I though it would be helpful to understand how a business can benefit the most from both, locals and tourists.
I found a few articles regarding the impact of tourism on South Africa's economy and community. As of today, its been recorded that tourism contributes to 3% of South Africa's GDP and employs 4.4% of the overall labor force. Local entrepreneurs and other international marketeers associate benefiting from the tourism business by focusing on sustainable tourism.
Sustainable tourism is the concept of visiting a place as a tourist with the intentions on having a positive impact on its society, environment, and economy. According to articles such as, Responsible Tourism is About Ethics, not Marketing, tourist who visit South Africa are people who are looking for "meaningful and unique experiences" while attempting to have a positive impact on the place they visit. With this in mind, marketers insist that in order for business to continue benefiting from tourism is by granting tourist with a "rewarding experience."
1. http://mg.co.za/article/2015-04-15-africa-travel-week-focuses-on-sustainable-tourism
2. http://mg.co.za/article/2015-04-15-responsible-tourism-is-not-a-marketing-decision-but-an-ethical-one
3. http://traveltips.usatoday.com/meaning-sustainable-tourism-2297.html
I think these articles are very important. I'm assuming most of the tourists who visit the township will want to have that "authentic" and "real" experience so that is definitely one of the business's unique strengths.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you on the piece discussing "sustainable tourism"- it is important to understand both perspectives: the tourists and the effect of the local workers providing the services. I posted an academic article that looked at tourism and the downfalls of "pro-poor" tourism that is implemented in South Africa at the moment; perhaps it could complement your own research.
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