Bringing Value to our Chain

The business model we proposed — and with it, the app that seams it all together — would be incomplete without the partners that offer the benefits. What we propose is relatively simple: discounts and benefits to those who help maintain that which keeps the tourism afloat or, simply put, the nature that surrounds it.

It’s a win-win situation. In exchange for experiencing the many waterfalls, dense flora and swimming holes present in the local environment, and caring for it as we should, the tourist gets to pay discounted prices for the products and services offered by the brands’ partners. Data collection and easy access to everything the surroundings has to offer in a comprehensive social platform, ensuring the safety of travelers whilst stimulating the local economy in a responsible and value-guided fashion.

At least, that’s what has been proposed. After interviewing business owners and entrepreneurs in Three Rivers, California, some obstacles have come to light. They are:

Lack of Marketing Budget

Businesses depend on local tourism to stay open, but also share economic ties with surrounding cities and towns. Much of the traffic comes from the area’s locals, with the occasional weekend traveler. This year, however, customer traffic has slowed to a near-halt. Marketing and promotions are not in their yearly budget, but they sometimes wish they could attract and retain more tourists, since it is them who are willing to spend the most when in town. All in all, there is a chasm between the visitors and the local commerce, sending the passers-by to better known venues and gas stations.

The Old Way

Artisans and service businesses tend to have a fixed price, not varying unless situations become dire. The stores located in the village’s main street tend to switch owners on a yearly basis, with few venues attracting the majority of customers. Those places tend to have been recently renovated or constructed, from what we could gather.

Tight connections

Businesses located in the whereabouts of parks and national reserves usually fall under the umbrella of a ¨parent¨ organisation that directs and manages marketing and organisation efforts for the totality of the market. As a whole, they do not converse or interact with each other apart from personal neighbourly interactions.

In conclusion, efforts will have to be dispersed into raising awareness in local business for marketing and publicity purposes, assuring a solid value proposition and the retention of customers. Hitherto, marketing efforts will have to be done focusing on a local-business perspective in order to stimulate the many tools we offer for owners to attract and keep the customers they do bring into their commerce.