Estela Marine-Roig, Natalia Daries, Eduard Cristobal-Fransi and Javier Sánchez-García
High-end gastronomic tourism is currently trending and significantly impacts a destination’s image. This research aims to demonstrate the importance of high-level local gastronomy…
Abstract
Purpose
High-end gastronomic tourism is currently trending and significantly impacts a destination’s image. This research aims to demonstrate the importance of high-level local gastronomy in forming the destination image from a semiotic perspective.
Design/methodology/approach
To achieve this objective, the three phases of the upscale dining experience – pre-visit, in situ and post-visit – are examined from a descriptive (informative use), appraisive (valuative use) and prescriptive (incitive use) semiotic perspective. This conceptual model includes six constructs: restaurant image, consumer need for status, consumer expectations, consumer satisfaction, restaurant loyalty and destination loyalty. The study is based on a survey of high-end restaurant customers (N = 421).
Findings
The research findings highlight that the characteristics of upscale dining establishments influence customer expectations, while customer satisfaction plays a crucial role in fostering loyalty towards both the restaurant and the destination. Additionally, the study reveals that individuals' social status or reputation moderates their expectations and satisfaction levels.
Originality/value
Although studies relate gastronomic image to global destination image, this relationship from a semiotic perspective has not been demonstrated through surveys. This proposed three-phase model based on the Peircean semiotic triad and Morris semiotic trichotomies not only addresses a gap in the existing literature but also offers valuable insights for destination managers and restaurant owners.
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Eva Martin-Fuentes, Estela Marine-Roig, Eduard Cristobal-Fransi and Berta Ferrer-Rosell
This chapter analyzes the pricing policy of hybrid P2P lodgings versus traditional hotels in relation to seasonality. A quantitative comparative analysis of room prices in Airbnb…
Abstract
This chapter analyzes the pricing policy of hybrid P2P lodgings versus traditional hotels in relation to seasonality. A quantitative comparative analysis of room prices in Airbnb and hotel lodgings in the city of Barcelona was conducted across four different pairs or dates (peak versus low season) in one year. Overall, the study shows that Airbnb prices are significantly lower than those of hotels and that the former’s prices fluctuate very little, whereas hotels use yield or revenue management techniques to adjust prices in high and low seasons. This implies that relevant purchase behavioral changes may occur in terms of customers waiting until the last minute to book.
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Eduard Cristobal, Carlos Flavián and Miguel Guinalíu
The objectives of this article are to develop a multiple‐item scale for measuring e‐service quality and to study the influence of perceived quality on consumer satisfaction levels…
Abstract
Purpose
The objectives of this article are to develop a multiple‐item scale for measuring e‐service quality and to study the influence of perceived quality on consumer satisfaction levels and the level of web site loyalty.
Design/methodology/approach
First, there is an explanation of the main attributes of the concepts examined, with special attention being paid to the multi‐dimensional nature of the variables and the relationships between them. This is followed by an examination of the validation processes of the measuring instruments.
Findings
The validation process of scales suggested that perceived quality is a multidimensional construct: web design, customer service, assurance and order management; that perceived quality influences on satisfaction; and that satisfaction influences on consumer loyalty. Moreover, no differences in these conclusions were observed if the total sample is divided between buyers and information searchers.
Practical implications
First, the need to develop user‐friendly web sites which ease consumer purchasing and searching, thus creating a suitable framework for the generation of higher satisfaction and loyalty levels. Second, the web site manager should enhance service loyalty, customer sensitivity, personalised service and a quick response to complaints. Third, the web site should uphold sufficient security levels in communications and meet data protection requirements regarding the privacy. Lastly, the need for correct product delivery and product manipulation or service is recommended.
Originality/value
Most relevant studies about perceived quality in the internet have focused on web design aspects. Moreover, the existing literature regarding internet consumer behaviour has not fully analysed profits generated by higher perceived quality in terms of user satisfaction and loyalty.
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Frederic Marimon Viadiu and Eduard Cristóbal Fransi
This article aims to analyse the process of introducing the ISO 9000 quality standard with the help of an external consultancy company. The main objectives are to investigate…
Abstract
Purpose
This article aims to analyse the process of introducing the ISO 9000 quality standard with the help of an external consultancy company. The main objectives are to investigate: whether there were any basic differences in the way that companies behaved when implementing a quality system based on ISO 9000; and how the quality of the consultant can be measured.
Design/methodology/approach
The methodology involved an empirical study of a sample of companies that obtained their ISO 9000 certifications in the years 1997, 1998, and 1999. All of these companies were based in Catalonia (Spain). The results were subjected to various statistical treatments to determine the segmentation of the market. Subsequent factor analysis determined the main factors that configured the quality of the consultancy services provided.
Findings
Three types of company behaviour when faced with the task of obtaining certification are identified. The companies that obtain the greatest benefits from the project are those that regard certification as just one more step towards total quality management. In contrast, companies that are sceptical about ISO 9000 are more likely to have negative perceptions of the consultant's work. The analysis also assesses the quality of the service provided by consultants. Finally, the paper finds that the quality of the service can be appreciated in terms of three factors. The factor that is best regarded by companies is referred to here as “human quality”, whereas the least regarded is “scheduling”.
Practical implications
The paper contributes a series of recommendations for consultants and companies looking to contract the services of specialised consultants in ISO 9000.
Originality/value
The article provides a tool to measure the service quality to the consultancy firms in order to improve its performance. On the other hand, it has been found that two out of the three dimensions related with this service were not found in the academic literature.
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Philip L. Pearce and Hera Oktadiana
In this chapter, the analysis-action nexus will be addressed by reviewing studies from across the chapters. The broad themes covered have included governance and sustainability…
Abstract
In this chapter, the analysis-action nexus will be addressed by reviewing studies from across the chapters. The broad themes covered have included governance and sustainability, consumer benefits and experiences, and networking among entrepreneurs and associated opportunities. It is argued that addition to tourism intelligence often lies in improving communication, building trusted connections, and affirming local networks. A focus on the need for trust, the use of tools for insights, the value of identifying new trends, and understanding target markets, together with the usefulness of training and an appreciation of time, help smooth the journey along the long and winding road from analysis to action.