The formation and development of tourist clusters: case of Poland and Armenia

The purpose of this article is to analyse the theoretical and practical basis for tourism cluster formation considering the similarities and differences of Poland and Armenia. The hypothesis assumes that despite the differences between the two countries, the cluster model does not show significant differences. The information for this study was obtained through various secondary sources, particularly, official statistical reports, Government programs of Armenia and Poland. In order to fill the information gap in official statistics in Armenia, sector observations were organized through online and off-line interviews with state representatives of the tourism sphere governance. As a result, the collected information was used to show existing models in Poland and to create a proposed tourism cluster models in Armenia. In Poland, especially it's Eastern part formation and development of clusters in the tourism sphere has become very popular, which is evidenced by constantly emerging new structures. It is important to note that the leading role of tourist cluster development in Poland has non-governmental organizations. Besides, taking into account the clustering experience authors have found that the role of self-government authorities in cluster structures in Poland should be increased because they are responsible for their community development through partnership and cooperation within tourist clusters. The main peculiarity of the suggested cluster model concept for Armenia is that the authors consider the role of cluster's coordinating body, which should be collegial including either state bodies, or university and private sector representatives. Though there are different initial conditions and economic situations in these countries, the case study of tourism clusters of Poland and the analysis of clustering potential of Armenia has shown that some of the successful experience will become an example for both of these countries. Armenia can use the experience of cluster coordinating body development in Poland and, at the same time, share positive initiatives of transnational cluster formation, as this type of clusters was not very productive in Poland.