Germany – fuTOURiSME

Tourism services for visitors and residents alike

Écrit par Pircher Mascontour.Info le septembre 13, 2024.

Restaurants and other suppliers, already grappling with post-pandemic difficulties, are now confronted with additional hurdles such as labor shortages and the rollback of VAT reductions. The difficulty of finding and retaining staff is a significant problem that is impacting operations.

Compliance with COVID measures and hygiene standards makes the provision of services and interaction with guests even more complex. The introduction of new legislation combined with bureaucratic hurdles poses major challenges for small businesses and business owners. In addition, the difficulties are compounded by the ambiguities surrounding new legislation, creating uncertainty and hindering compliance.

Global activity platforms are proving to be formidable competitors and pose major challenges for SMEs. With their vast resources and wide reach, these platforms exert a significant influence on consumer behaviour and preferences. By offering a wide range of services and experiences, often at competitive prices, they attract the attention and loyalty of customers and divert traffic away from local businesses. In addition, the extensive marketing budgets of global platforms enable them to flood the market with targeted advertising and sales promotions, further marginalising SMEs.

Awareness raising on changes in tourism demand and the opportunities of twin transition for tourism

Écrit par Pircher Mascontour.Info le septembre 13, 2024.

The case of BayTM (Bavarian Tourism Marketing) is one of numerous other tourism Destination Management Organisations (DMOs) in Germany that work towards advancing the digital and sustainable transition within the tourism sector. One of the main gaps noted is the ongoing difficulty in effectively distributing the information to all relevant stakeholders, highlighting the importance of the right communication and dissemination channels. Additionally, concerns regarding data quality and legal considerations when sharing information via Open Data platforms need to be addressed to foster trust and compliance.

SMEs in particular feel overwhelmed by the volume of information and seek assistance in filtering relevant content. They prioritize saving time and money, and therefore seek for tailored support in accessing best practices and funding opportunities. The same comes with training options: Despite the availability of various (partly free of charge) training platforms, SMEs struggle to identify the most suitable options for them, as there is mostly the need for training sessions and individual coaching addressing their specific business operations. As highlighted already, there is also a need for a clear mandate within tourism organizations which can address transition challenges effectively and disseminate information to stakeholders on the ground.

Awareness raising on skills needs for twin transition in tourism

Écrit par Pircher Mascontour.Info le septembre 13, 2024.

For SMEs in the tourism industry, it can be a challenge to participate in training courses and invest time and money to train staff in sustainability and digitalisation. This has been mentioned for example by Aqua Turm Hotel, Fernwaerts Reisen, Dervish Catering or Bodensee-Schiffsbetriebe GmbH.

SMEs often work with limited financial resources and tight budgets. Allocating funds to training programmes may require diverting funds from other critical areas of business operations, which is a difficult decision for SME owners. The tourism industry is highly competitive and SMEs may feel compelled to prioritise immediate concerns such as marketing and customer service over long-term investments such as training programmes. This short-term focus can make it difficult for SMEs to justify the time and resources needed for training initiatives.

SMEs usually have smaller teams and fewer employees. This means that employees being away from their regular duties to attend training can disrupt day-to-day operations and potentially impact productivity, which SMEs cannot afford. In addition, SMEs may lack the necessary expertise or knowledge about sustainability and digitalisation. It is therefore difficult for them to find suitable training programmes or understand the potential benefits of investing in such initiatives.

SMEs may perceive sustainability and digitalisation as complex and abstract concepts, further discouraging them from investing in training programmes. Without a clear understanding of the tangible benefits and practical applications of these initiatives, SMEs may be reluctant to commit resources to training their employees.

Support for digitalisation of tourism SMEs and destinations

Écrit par Pircher Mascontour.Info le septembre 13, 2024.

German SMEs face a significant deficit in digital proficiency, with many lacking the internal skills and resources necessary for successful implementation of a digital transformation. Identifying suitable partners or specialists for specific requirements proves challenging, further complicating the transition. Moreover, bureaucratic hurdles, including complex regulations and constantly evolving legislation, hinder long-term planning and deter SMEs from seeking financial support.

Additionally, a lack of commitment towards training, limited internet coverage in rural areas, and difficulties in compliance with data protection laws further impede a faster digital transition. Also, awareness of available funding options for digitalisation programs remains low among SMEs, hindering their ability to access crucial financial support – which is especially important for SME’s. Summarized, there is a gap in raising awareness of available funding options, providing targeted training and support, simplifying regulations, and fostering collaboration among stakeholders.

Destination surveys conducted by DTV show that digital strategies and solutions are being developed at different levels. However, the greatest need for further training is still seen in the foundational domain, e.g. the creation of a holistic digitalisation strategy, the analysis of visitor flows or the online bookability of tourism offers. Many are reluctant to get involved in the sometimes complex process of converting existing systems. As a result, current buzzwords such as artificial intelligence, chatbots and open data are often of little or no relevance at this stage.

Funding is also a complex issue that many companies seek assistance with. In this context, the lack of information and the amount of bureaucracy involved is a major obstacle. In general, the availability of sufficient financial and human resources is currently a widespread problem that also affects the progress of digitalisation. The issue is further complicated by the fact that rural providers in particular still face basic challenges such as ensuring stable networks and a fast internet connection

Easily accessible best practice, peer learning and networking for SMEs

Écrit par Pircher Mascontour.Info le septembre 13, 2024.

Peer learning and networking platforms face significant challenges as a result of their reliance on the commitment of their members to ensure progress and continued implementation. This dependency can lead to obstacles, such as member engagement and participation fluctuates. In addition, the lack of resources and internal capacity is a significant obstacle for operating smoothly operation and sustainable growth.

In the past, the Brandenburg Tourism Network was managed by a single person who was responsible for both content creation and technical performance. Whilst this approach was initially functional, it proved to be inefficient and unsustainable in the long term. To overcome this limitation, a reorganisation was initiated and a dedicated team was formed. An editorial team was formed to manage the content, with the overarching aim of efficiently collecting and disseminating information.

However, the transition to a team-based approach can present challenges in terms of coordination, communication and alignment of efforts. Careful planning and coordination is required to ensure that all team members are working towards common goals and that responsibilities are clearly defined. It may also be necessary to further optimise and refine processes to maximise the team’s efficiency and effectiveness in managing the network and platform.

Potential gaps and difficulties for the success of such a platform are member engagement, resource constraints, technological barriers, relevance of content and sustainability of initiatives.

Green transition of tourism companies and SMEs

Écrit par Pircher Mascontour.Info le septembre 13, 2024.

In transitioning German tourism SMEs towards greener practices, we encounter several challenges and gaps. Firstly, there’s still a prevalent lack of understanding regarding sustainability concepts and certification schemes among SMEs in the tourism sector. The abundance of sustainability certification schemes poses a challenge for SMEs, necessitating assistance in selecting the most suitable option. This hinders them from implementing comprehensive sustainability initiatives and attain recognized certifications, critical for credibility and competitiveness. Challenges are further related to paperwork burdens, limited capacity (money and people), and time constraints, amplified by the need for external expertise and specialized knowledge. Additionally, SMEs often face difficulties in getting the right information about newly introduced EU or national legislation related to the green transition, leading to uncertainty and non-compliance. As legislation is often not applicable to such a small company, the interest is low.

Many lack a concrete sustainability strategy, particularly micro-businesses, focusing instead on economically driven decisions and re-acting instead of anticipating. In addition, measurement of sustainability impact remains a challenge due to limited capacity and knowledge about suitable KPIs.

Interestingly, also communicating sustainable initiatives to clients proves challenging, as they may perceive responsible options as offering less quality for (more) money, and therefore are often unwilling to pay extra. (Financial) Support from public authorities is essential, while collaborations with municipalities and tourism associations also require further expansion. Ultimately, the interviews highlighted the following gap: certifications and sustainable practices are predominantly driven by market demand rather than intrinsic motivation.

Circularity of tourism services

Écrit par Pircher Mascontour.Info le septembre 13, 2024.

SMEs in the tourism sector face major challenges when it comes to implementing circular economy in their services. These difficulties are due to several factors, including lack of capacity, funding, knowledge and understanding of circular principles.

The integration of sustainability into the corporate culture of the MERCURE HOTEL MOA BERLIN brings with it several challenges. Firstly, this integration requires a gradual rethink and action on the part of employees and management. This is not just about implementing sustainable measures, but also about promoting a deep understanding of and commitment to sustainable principles at all levels of the organisation.

Effective integration of sustainability requires the active participation and engagement of both staff and guests. Employees must be trained and empowered to incorporate sustainable practices into their daily operations, while guests should be encouraged to participate in sustainable initiatives during their stay.

One of the main gaps in this process is the time-consuming process of embedding sustainability into the organisation’s DNA. Changing established processes and ingrained habits takes time and patience, and progress can be gradual rather than immediate. This gradual approach is essential to ensure that sustainability becomes an integral part of the company’s identity and operations.

Another major challenge is to keep an eye on profitability while honouring social and environmental commitments. Sustainable practices often require upfront investment and can have an initial impact on profitability. Balancing these financial considerations with the long-term benefits of sustainability requires careful planning and strategic decisions.

Like many others, Dervish (Restaurant and catering) faced significant financial challenges in the midst of the pandemic, which led to a shift in priorities to other important aspects of the business. As Dervish operates with limited resources and a limited number of employees, it is a challenge for the company to dedicate sufficient time and staff to understand and effectively implement the circular economy. The complex nature of circular economy concepts combined with the need for customised strategies exacerbates this difficulty. Shifting to sustainable practices would require upfront investment in technology, infrastructure and staff training – expenses that Dervish would struggle to sustain without external support or funding.

Comprehensive tourism strategies development or update

Écrit par Pircher Mascontour.Info le septembre 13, 2024.

In developing a concept and guidelines for sustainable tourism development in Rhineland-Palatinate several obstacles and challenges have been identified. First of all, the pandemic highlighted the need for adaptable strategies, often realized only when directly impacted, as seen in responses to climate change and natural disasters (e.g. Ahrtal flood). Also, gathering data with good quality remains a hurdle, limiting the ability to make informed decisions. Moreover, stakeholder consultations were an essential part, but challenging due to the diverse interests and priorities involved. Bringing stakeholders together, gaining insights, and fostering consensus requires significant effort.

In general, coordination across those entities and companies involved in tourism is crucial, necessitating a central body to oversee and integrate efforts effectively. Sometime, Sometimes, sustainability is not given the importance it would deserve within organizational structures. Gaps arise, when there are no dedicated roles defined.

Engaging SMEs is key, as they play a significant role in tourism but may lack resources or awareness. Encouraging them to participate and engage in this transformation is not always easy. Lastly, strategies must not remain theoretical; they should offer concrete recommendations for implementation to drive tangible outcomes.

Tourismus-Marketing Brandenburg GmbH

Écrit par Pircher Mascontour.Info le septembre 12, 2024.

The Brandenburg Tourism Network brings together key players in the tourism industry in Brandenburg and informs its members about topics that are of interest to them, but also about topics that are politically important or prepare tourism businesses for economic competitiveness in the coming years.

A wealth of expertise and knowledge is gathered and shared with interested stakeholders, supporting local businesses and creating awareness. The network offers a variety of educational programmes, webinars, and courses, which benefit members and support the tourism industry as a whole to implement Brandenburg’s tourism strategy.

It is a successful way of involving local interest groups and informing them about current projects. The platform is a digital collection point for projects that are being worked on and to communicate these successfully with industry partners. The network aims to make important topics accessible, educate, inform and invite the industry.

Tourism strategy Rhineland-Palatinate

Écrit par Pircher Mascontour.Info le septembre 12, 2024.

Sustainability is anchored as one of the five goals in the Rhineland-Palatinate Tourism Strategy 2025. The Ministry of Economic Affairs, Transport, Agriculture and Viticulture (MWVLW), together with the partners of the Rhineland-Palatinate Tourism Strategy, has developed the expert concept and guidelines for sustainable tourism development in Rhineland-Palatinate in order to strategically and in a structured manner dedicate itself to sustainable, responsible tourism development.

The aim was to initiate a strategic and operational change process towards sustainable tourism development and to implement it on the basis of a concept and guidelines.

Country : Germany