TERRITORIAL BRANDING AS AN INSTRUMENT FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF RURAL TOURISM (ON THE EXAMPLE OF THE STAVROPOL REGION)

Stavropol Region has the potential for the development of rural tourism. Rural tourism offers a unique solution that will provide jobs, consistently high incomes of the population and preserve the nature of the region intact. An analysis of the state of rural development in the Stavropol Territory showed that the region has enormous resources for rural tourism, but they are used with a low degree of efficiency. The study was completed by making proposals for the formation of the region's brand through the realization of recreational potential and the development of rural tourism. The article justifiably proves that this sphere, along with agriculture, is a backbone for the economy of the Stavropol Territory, and the strengthening of economic activity in tourism will have a noticeable positive impact on other sectors of the regional economy.