Rebranding Macau: views of cultural industry insiders
International Journal of Culture, Tourism and Hospitality Research
ISSN: 1750-6182
Article publication date: 7 March 2016
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to evaluate the feasibility of utilizing the performing arts as one element in changing the destination image of the Macau special administrative region from that of the Las Vegas of the East to a “World Centre of Tourism and Leisure”. The context is of particular interest as rebranding is typically associated with negative or outdated images, whereas Macau’s existing brand is strong and associated with positive tourism revenues.
Design/methodology/approach
Semi-structured in-depth interviews with frontline participants in Macau’s performing arts sector are utilized to evaluate the relevant re-branding strategies and goals of the city’s administration. In-depth interviews focus on understanding policies through the thoughts and experiences of respondents. They are particularly useful in cases where insiders are likely to be better informed than others with respect to policy issues.
Findings
Three main themes related to the use of the performing arts as a vehicle for destination rebranding are explored. Findings suggest that few elements common to successful branding campaigns are evident in the approach of the Macau administration. Shortcomings are evident, for example, in communication, infrastructure development, long-term planning and the allocation and monitoring of funding.
Research limitations/implications
Although qualitative research relies on rich data from small numbers, the study focuses only on the views of informed insiders in the performing arts. Input from commercial stakeholders and higher-level policy makers would broaden the perspective.
Practical implications
The findings are relevant for any destination wishing to alter or update its image.
Originality/value
Cultural aspects are increasingly utilized in destination branding. This study is one of only a few which focuses on the performing arts sector.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors wish to thank the Institute for Tourism Studies, Macau, for the funding provided for this research, and the interviewees who contributed their valuable knowledge of the performing arts sector in Macau. The authors would also like to thank two anonymous reviewers for their insightful comments and suggestions.
Citation
Sou, J.P.U., Vinnicombe, T. and Leung, T.C.H. (2016), "Rebranding Macau: views of cultural industry insiders", International Journal of Culture, Tourism and Hospitality Research, Vol. 10 No. 1, pp. 91-104. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJCTHR-01-2015-0004
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2016, Emerald Group Publishing Limited