Kathleen H. Gruben

An empirical test of the Olympic tourism legacy

ABSTRACT International tourism legacies are a key justification for hosting the Olympics. Although strong theoretical arguments have been made to support the tourism legacy, empirically measuring the effect has been problematic. Strong arguments for enhancing the legacy effect through the proper leveraging of the Olympics by means such as positive media coverage exist. This research empirically tests for the legacy effect and whether leveraging the Olympics by exposing potential tourists to more media enhances the legacy effect. The data used in this research are monthly international air passenger arrivals for nine Olympic host cities. A time series methodology that controls for problems noted in prior studies such as pre-existing trends, external events, seasonality, and crowding out is incorporated. The results show little evidence to support the legacy effect in the short run.

The Retail Buying Process for Small Retailers: A Conceptual Model

Extensive research has been devoted to conceptualizing the organizational buying process. Four dominant models have been established (Johnston and Lewin 1996; Robinson et al. 1967; Sheth 1973; Webster and Wind 1972). Webster and Wind (1972) suggested that organizational models developed for industrial buying can or should be adapted to fit the needs of retail buyers. However, this approach is not always appropriate. Vast differences become apparent between industrial and retail buying when the retail buying process is examined—especially when the retailer is small. The purpose of this study is to develop a conceptual model that represents the buying process of small retailers.