Integrating industrial tourism into active industrial companies: Advantages, barriers, and strategic approaches using the Delphi Method

Abstract

Objective: This article explores how to incorporate industrial tourism into active industrial companies, whose main focus is industrial production rather than tourism. In contrast to most of the research on industrial tourism, this article focuses on the point of view of active industrial companies, the so-called "living industry", to identify the impact of this product on industrial companies, as well as strategies and barriers to its implementation. Theoretical Framework: Industrial tourism includes visits to industrial sites that have ceased their operations, industrial companies currently in operation and future industrial establishments, as well as visits to other destinations with an industrial theme, such as industrial technology hubs, museums, industrial tourist routes, educational institutions with industrial programs, laboratories and similar sites. Method: The Delphi methodology was employed, involving 27 experts, both academics and practitioners, with different backgrounds, such as Anthropology, Tourism, Business Sciences, Marketing, Economics, International Public Relations, History, Museology, Cultural Heritage, Art and History. Results and Discussion: The results provide new knowledge on the advantages, weaknesses, strategies and barriers to implementing Industrial Tourism in active industrial companies, promoting the development of l business strategies and future studies on this subject. Implications of the Research: The research contributes to understanding the challenges to implementing this tourism product, offering a basis for analyzing and formulating successful business strategies. Originality/Value: The study proposes a practical approach to the applicability of industrial tourism to industrial companies, providing relevant information for industrial companies, government bodies and other stakeholders.