Promoting the Sales of Regional Specialty Products through Local Festivals in Rural Korea

지역문화행사를 통한 전통산물 판매활성화 방안

Local fairs are often part of the economic development strategy of rural areas. This study aims to find out marketing strategies for promoting the sales of regional specialty products through local festivals in rural Korea. The data were collected in late 2003 (from a sample of interviews and surveys from 351 visitors. The data were analyzed using the SPSS computer program. The results were as follows; First, the factors that visitors were considered in purchasing were quality (49.5％), commemorative value (36.9％), and reliability (33.0％). And the top reasons cited for not buying were lack of distinction (45.1％) and high prices (26.6％). The discount rates expected in markets was 16.8％. Second, 49.8％ of visitors has spent over 10,000 won and their purchase pattern has been for themselves and their family. Third, the public organizations for certi(ication for visitors were the National Agricultural Cooperative Fedration (37.9％) and the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF) (22.5％). In conclusion, it was important for local stakeholders to provide more locally-manufactured, seasonal and traditional food, and to plan more locally characteristic events for their fairs. Further recommendations have included having a guide showing pricing and quality standards for products bought at rural fairs, developing product ideas for inducing impulse purchases, active promotion and marketing at event sites, and setting a standard system of warranties on products under the certification of the local authorities and with the financial support of the MAF Such recommendations were aimed at increasing the sale of traditional and regional specialty products at local festivals.