Work-leisure concepts and tourism: studying the relationship between hybrid coworking spaces and the accommodation industry in peripheral areas of Germany

ABSTRACT Coworking spaces (CSs) have become increasingly popular as a mode and place of work, particularly in urban areas and among digital nomads. However, these spaces are also expanding in remote and attractive locations. Despite this trend, little is known about how tourism can influence the emergence of CSs. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the accommodation industry (hotels and other short-term and medium-term lodging options) and the presence of CSs in peripheral districts of Germany. By analysing both panel and longitudinal data at the district level, we found that the impact of the accommodation industry on the emergence of CSs was moderate. Using a design-thinking perspective and the breakthrough model, the study demonstrated that concepts related to work and leisure have broad applications for hotels, CSs in peripheral areas, and regional policymakers. Therefore, these stakeholders should consider making changes to their business strategies to adapt to structural changes and take advantage of the growing market potential for a resilient business.