Sport hospitality as a business strategy

Abstract

Purpose

The demand for sport tourism throughout the world has risen in recent years for several reasons, most significantly an increased emphasis on health and fitness and the increased use of sporting events by cities in order to attract tourists. The purpose of this case study is twofold. First, to trace the corporate communication process implemented by the management of Isrotel Hotels in its effort to build the new Sport Club Hotel, focusing on internal and external communications. Second, to describe how the marketing and promotion of sport hotels differs from that of ordinary hotels.

Design/methodology/approach

This article describes one unique example of a hotel based entirely on the idea of fulfilling the dreams of active sport tourists, provided by the Isrotel Hotel Management Group, who have given the concept of a sports vacation a whole new meaning in the world of hospitality.

Findings

The case study described here suggests that sports‐oriented hotel identity must be achieved via the most efficient corporate communication channels in the hospitality industry – nomenclature and branding, graphic design, formal statements, architecture, media relations and routine interactions.

Originality/value

This case study provides insights into the marketing and communication strategies used in creating a sports‐oriented hotel for people who wish to live and breathe sports 24 hours a day during their vacation. This case can serve other hotel managements in their attempts to provide their guests with a different experience that effectively amalgamates hospitality and sports.

Citation

Herstein, R. and Jaffe, E.D. (2008), "Sport hospitality as a business strategy", Journal of Business Strategy, Vol. 29 No. 6, pp. 36-43. https://doi.org/10.1108/02756660810917228