A factor analysis of the North American coach tour sector in Ireland

Ryan, Marie; Deegan, Jim; Moloney, Richard

A factor analysis of the North American coach tour sector in Ireland

Files

Global Business Conference paper 2011 A Factor Analysis of the North American Coach Tour Sector in Ireland.pdf(333.27 KB)

Accepted Version

Date

2011-03

Authors

Ryan, Marie

Deegan, Jim

Moloney, Richard

Abstract

The objective of this paper is to identify the most significant travel behaviours and characteristics of North American coach tourists visiting Ireland. The rationale for analysing coach tourists is based on their growth in recent years. The method used is Factor Analysis. Findings suggest tourism policies can now be directed more succinctly to cater for a specific type of coach tourist rather than supplying a generic tourist product. Seven niche market potentials are identified. These markets are physically active coach tours, spa retreat tours, spiritual tours, historical tours, the health conscious tours, adult-only coach tours and family oriented tours.

Keywords

Coach tourists , Factor analysis , Niche markets , Irish tourism

Citation

Ryan, M., Deegan, J. and Moloney, R. (2011) 'A factor analysis of the North American coach tour sector in Ireland', Global Business & Economics Anthology, 1, pp. 75-86.