Mapping the Tourism Industry: Insights and Implications

This study aims to map the intricate network of enterprises within the tourism industry, developing a theoretical framework that is then applied to the Emilia-Romagna region as a case study. It places this investigation within the broader context of regional economic dynamics and the imperative for sustainable tourism development. Our inquiry delves into the classification, geographic distribution, and employment of tourism enterprises, with a particular emphasis on addressing missing employment data. We propose effective solutions, introducing imputation methods able to rectify cases where data on employed individuals is absent for specific local units. That way we provide a foundation for informed decision-making and strategic planning, fostering economic growth and strengthening the region's tourism sector.