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Tourism distribution research to date has essentially taken a tier-by-tier approach to questions of channel structure and channel relationships rather than a nodal network approach. This article provides a new perspective by extending existing notions of distribution channels through a more explicit articulation of tourism distribution in network terms. It is based on a review of the literature and is informed by the experience of undertaking a major 5-year project on tourism distribution in New Zealand. Concepts and examples of tourism distribution networks are outlined; limitations in existing distribution research reviewed; ways to take network analysis forward are suggested and illustrated with examples; and the management implications for firms and destination management organizations are outlined. Steps to operationalize a network approach to tourism distribution include identifying the focal actors, considering the form of network and the structural dimensions to be analyzed, developing typologies and exploring network relationships. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines outbound travel distribution channels from a national market perspective exploring the case of New Zealand. In particular, the paper analyses the structure of the industry, intermediary patterns of sourcing, distributing and promoting as well as trends and challenges. Consistent with global trends, consolidation and vertical integration are pronounced structural features, and technological change along with evolving customer preferences and travel patterns have fostered increased multichannel distribution with online channels complementing traditional trade outlets. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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This paper contributes to the literature on business-to-business relationships in tourism distribution by examining questions of supplier selection in the New Zealand inbound tourism industry. In particular, the paper examines the factors that influence offshore intermediaries' selection of new suppliers; analyses the factors that would lead them to change suppliers; and investigates the ways they stay abreast of what products and suppliers are available in New Zealand. An open-ended approach is taken to addressing these questions based on interviews with a range of intermediaries in New Zealand's three main international markets: Australia, Great Britain and the USA. Three broad sets of factors are found to influence their behaviour in terms of selecting and changing New Zealand suppliers of travel products: those related to products, people and pricing. In contrast to earlier work in this field, product-related factors are shown to be particularly important. TRENZ, the country's annual travel trade fair, and the activities of the national tourism marketing organization are the main means by which intermediaries remain abreast of product development. The paper concludes by outlining the implications of these results for those researching tourism distribution and for suppliers operating, or seeking to operate, in international markets. doi:10.1300/J073v23n01_05 [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper complements recent research on distribution in the airline industry by examining distribution channels for a range of surface transport businesses (coaches, rental cars, campervans, rail and inter-island ferries) in New Zealand. The study takes a national perspective. adopts a supply-side approach and is based on the analysis of information from in-depth interviews with selected providers. Particular emphasis is given to establishing the nature of the channels used and to the factors that contribute to differences and similarities in channel structures from one form of transport or product to another. Three broad classes of channels are identified: direct; conventional travel intermediaries; and local intermediaries. While carriers use multiple channels, broader patterns do emerge related to particular forms of travel and market segments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on in-depth interviews with 20 providers, this article examines the distribution mix for tourism attractions in Rotorua, a major New Zealand destination. It seeks to establish the balance between direct and indirect distribution channels, to identify the different forms of distribution involved, and to examine the factors influencing their use. The distribution mix was found to be very mixed, the percentage of direct sales ranging from 95% to 20%. Little systematic variation was evident, with the exception of an inverse relationship between the percentage of direct sales and the proportion of business from group tours. Variation was also found in the structure of direct and indirect channels and in the reasons given for using each of these. Factors influencing the overall distribution mix include the segments targeted, the characteristics of the attractions, and the perceived advantages and disadvantages of different channels with respect to yield, control, and seasonality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper analyses the structure and functioning of distribution channels for cultural tourism in Catalonia, Spain. In particular, it seeks to identify the current structure of distribution channels for selected cultural tourism sites throughout the region; to analyse the factors that influence channel structure in this sector; and to discuss the ways in which and extent to which the channels and the factors influencing them reflect broader aspects of tourism distribution and cultural tourism. The study takes a regional perspective, adopts a predominantly supply-side approach and is based largely on the collection and analysis of information from in-depth interviews. Much of the demand for cultural tourism in the region comes from independent tourists or from excursionists, and the distribution channels are generally much simpler than those commonly found in the transport and accommodation sectors. The cultural attraction providers generally follow 'at destination' distribution practices and direct channels predominate. These are supported in both a passive and more proactive way by a range of promotional activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the structure and functioning of tourism distribution channels in Southland, a temperate, peripheral region of the South Island of New Zealand, with a high degree of independent travel based mainly on natural features. It takes a regional perspective, adopts a supply-side approach and is based largely on the collection and analysis of information from in-depth interviews. Consideration of the distribution strategies aimed at each of five major segments – tour groups, special interest visitors, semi-independent travellers, independent travellers and business travellers – provides a focal point for synthesizing the analysis and discussion of channel structures. Businesses serving the group, special interest and semi-independent segments make greater use of inbound operators, wholesalers and retail travel agents and have their products pre-purchased in the market, generally either as part of a group or personalized package. Businesses catering to independent travellers tend to rely on a mix of ‘en route’ and ‘at destination’ strategies, involving information dissemination and sales through other intermediaries, especially information centres and formal or informal networks of other providers. The channel mix is influenced by regional supply and demand characteristics as well as by the prominence of circuit tourism in New Zealand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]