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An analysis of the factors affecting the attractiveness of scientific conferences

Tsiskaki Georgia

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Summary

Tourism is one of the most important activities in Greece, as it offers valuable currency to the country, creates jobs and helps achieve rapid economic growth. Conference tourism in particular has gained significant international growth recently, and is one of the most profitable alternative forms of tourism. According to the HAPCO estimates and based on the conferences scheduled to be held in Athens by 2020, there is an increase of 30% in conference tourism in Greece as compared to the period 2012-2017 (https://www.tour-market.gr/giati-afxithike-o-synedriakos-tourismos-stin-ellada/).The benefits to the economy, as well as to the various business sectors (accommodation, audiovisual sector, construction, catering, etc.) supported by MICE (Multi-events, Conferences and Exhibitions) tourism are multiple compared to traditional tourism. Tourists who come to Greece to attend conferences are high-income visitors, who spend up to 7 times more than most traditional tourists. On average, the amount spent by a visitor attending a conference is estimated at 1,900 euros, while the cost of a tourist who comes for vacation is estimated at 690 euros.(https://www.tour-market.gr/giati-afxithike-o-synedriakos-tourismos-stin-ellada/).Conference tourism can be one of the most promising forms of tourism, given the fact that tourists' demands are constantly increasing. Notwithstanding its economic importance, there is no extensive research into the field of incentives for participation in academic conferences. The existing surveys focus mainly on the competitiveness of conference destinations and the economic impact on the venue. The conference market is mainly defined by the supply, with less attention paid to individual conference participants’ needs and preferences. Conferences are typically based on organized and structured groups of people with similar interests (McCabe, Poole, Weeks & Leiper, 2000), whose decisions significantly affect the conference tourism market. The purpose of this study is to analyze the determinants of the attractiveness of scientific conferences that affect participants in the decision to attend scientific conferences. The results of the study will help conference planners to develop strategic plans for conference tourism. In addition, better understanding of the motives and factors affecting potential participants, whether positive or inhibiting, when deciding to participate in a scientific conference, will help its organizing committee to design conferences that best meet the needs and preferences of the participants. Finally, increasing conference attendance will reduce the total cost of the conference and allow organizations to increase profits.

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