Promoting the Tourist Experience Economy in LEDCs Through Authentic Fair-Trade Handicrafts

Abstract

The handicraft sector plays an important role in providing economic benefits of tourism to local communities. However, this sector is threatened by globalized supply chains. This conceptual chapter explores the synergistic value of linking the experience economy, creative tourism, and fair-trade principles to increase the benefits of the handicraft sector to local communities while supporting positive tourist experiences. The handicraft sector contributes to the livelihoods of marginalized members of the supply chain side of a destination by opening opportunities for adding value to their tangible products through co-created experiences. Furthermore, the creative potential allows tourists to create memories, connecting with producers in interesting and meaningful ways, when fair-trade principles are integrated as part of the tourist experience. To ensure a balanced synergy and active connection between experience economy, creative tourism, and fair-trade concepts, well-trained and skilled artists, art managers, and creative entrepreneurs are needed in tourist destinations.