Innovative Activity of Russian Tourism Enterprises

Abstract

The analysis of innovation activity and its elements in the quantitative and qualitative characteristics of tourism enterprises belonging to small and medium-sized businesses has been presented. The changes taking place in the world in the tourism market, including under the influence of COVID, as well as the peculiarities of tourism as part of the service sector and industry, determine the search for new non-traditional destinations with innovative elements. The purpose of this article is to present the innovation activity in quantitative and qualitative characteristics, which allows informatively characterizing the Russian practice in general and in small and medium-sized businesses on the example of the tourism sector. The research methods used were content analysis, comparative analysis, the method of expert assessments, and statistical methods. The results of the research of innovation activity based on monitoring, taking into account the industry characteristics, characterize a low share of small enterprises interested in innovation, an insignificant connection with higher educational institutions, a low share of environmental and managerial innovations. The results of the monographic observation of tourism enterprises allow assessing innovation activity positively for most enterprises, however, there is a lack of state support for regional administration, financial capabilities, and strategic planning at enterprises. Conducting research and obtaining new information will be necessary for the development of innovative projects and strategic development of tourism in Russia in the future, in innovative activities, especially in terms of marketing. As a priority area – the interaction of small and medium-sized businesses with scientific departments of universities to integrate their joint activities.