Integrating sustainable tourism in tour operators' supply chain

Abstract

Implementation of the concept of sustainable tourism development in the business of tour operators is based on the respect of environmental, social and economic aspects in all stages of the formation and execution of travel arrangements. For tour operators, the integration of these principles in the process of creating a supply chain and contracting services with providers is of particular importance. In this way, the tour operator can achieve a greater level of control over inputs included in a travel arrangement, guaranteeing the quality of customer services and taking responsibility in relation to other stakeholders. Experiences of tour operators in leading source markets have shown that it has long-term positive economic effects. Although tour operators face a number of difficulties in the process of integrating sustainable tourism in the supply chain, positive experience has shown that well-placed management system and intensive long-term cooperation with providers gives good results.