The role of intermediaries in the growth of a lesser-developed region: some empirical evidence from Calabria, Italy

This paper provides empirical evidence regarding the impact of tour operators on the performance of accommodation enterprises in a southern Italian region. The region, in spite of its strategic geographical position and beautiful natural resources, is still characterized by limited tourist flows and production capacity with regard to its accommodation potential. A logistic regression is implemented on data collected through a direct survey. This survey made use of the results from questionnaires given to a sample of 255 accommodation providers. The study concludes by proposing policies that might be adopted by private firms, intermediaries and local government in order to improve competitiveness and enhance economic growth.