The Importance of Collective Brands in Protected Areas Management and Promotion: Natural.PT, Portugal Case Study

Abstract

The objective of this study is to gain a deeper understanding of the importance of collective brands in protected areas and what is the process and impact of their development on protected areas management. This study is applied to the collective brand Natural.PT, in Portugal, using a case study approach. The study adds value to the existing literature insofar as it explores what the process of creating a collective brand involves, what benefits and/or difficulties, and what dynamics can be developed to promote this collective brand to the tourism players operating in protected areas. To this end, a qualitative study based on documentary analysis and interviews with key informants was developed, covering the different dimensions of protected areas management and collective brands. Natura.PT case is at an early stage and the main conclusions point to the need for promotion for this collective brand and a higher advantage for stakeholders allowing more decisions according to their personal and business interests and due to the fact of operating in a protected area.