ABSTRACT
The concept of tourism represents a wide field of research and development, especially considering the global dimensions it is taking. In Albania, the tourism sector has become one of the most important sectors of economic development, especially in recent years when attention has increased in the international arena. The financial and social impact has begun to be experienced, when seeing that almost all figures in the tourism components show growth. The earthquake of November 26, 2019, and especially the isolation from the COVID-19 pandemic, had a negative impact, that limited the development and investment capacities in this sector. As a result of the great opportunities that our country offers in the field of tourism, technology has played a no less important role, especially for promotion to foreigners. The standardization of services has come as a result of awareness on development opportunities, but also as a result of constant demands and models borrowed from other countries, where digital transformation also undoubtedly plays a role. Another element affected in this study is the digitalization of business in the provision method of the tourism product. Specifically, tel_Albania, as a leadi ng company in the country, has launched the tel_Business platform, by aiming to contribute to the fulfilment of the concepts of smart tourism and e-tourism. © 2022 by ASERS® Publishing. All rights reserved.
ABSTRACT
The main goal of this paper is to measure and compare the awareness and preferences of consumers in relation to local products in three countries: Albania, Bulgaria, and Poland. (1) Background: The analysis focused on consumer choices when presented with local products, specifically knowledge as to their environmentally friendly status. The study was evoked by the need to recognize and evaluate changes in consumer behavior as a result of the pandemic and the global challenges related to climate change and the widespread call for nature preservation. (2) Methods: An online survey was conducted with 300 respondents from Poland, 262 from Albania, and 250 from Bulgaria. Statistical analysis was applied. (3) Results: The study answered research questions about consumer readiness to pay a premium price and awareness about the impact of regional products on the environment and livelihood of rural communities. (4) Conclusions: The study proved that consumer perceptions and behavior are influenced by a variety of factors and driving forces in the three countries surveyed depending on socioeconomic characteristics and relevant policies. COVID-19 accelerated the demand for products derived from nature-friendly production systems. Products with geographical indication (GI products) are a better choice from the perspective of sustainable consumption.