DILEMMAS OF THE SHARING ECONOMY DEVELOPMENT IN THE CONTEXT OF ACCOMMODATION SERVICES FOR TOURISTS

Abstract

Purpuse – The sharing economy has had a significant impact on the accommodation services market, particularly in the rental of private properties to tourists worldwide, including in Central and Eastern European countries.Despite the unquestionable benefits valued by tourists and the better use of resources from a macroeconomic perspective, various threats exist for local communities and the traditional tourism sector, for the economy and for the natural environment. Consequently, various dilemmas arise both among participants in this market and among policymakers: how and to what extent the short-term property rental market should be regulated, and whether benefits outweigh negative aspects. The aim of the article is to examine the developmental trends of the accommodation services market for tourists and to determine its future prospects, with particular attention to Poland.

Methodology – The characteristics of the concept of the sharing economy and its areas of application were outlined based on a review of the relevant literature. Similarly, benefits and threats arising from the development of the accommodation base for tourists through resource sharing were identified based on literature research. Development trends were determined using available statistical data, while future prospects and the most significant dilemmas were identified through a SWOT analysis.

Findings – The dynamic development of the accommodation services market for tourists in Poland and other countries  has been confirmed. Benefits are observed for both tourists (lower prices, flexibility) and property owners (additional income). The economy of tourist regions also records advantages. On the other hand, the identified threats give rise to dilemmas regarding the use of this form of accommodation services, the offering of private properties to unknown individuals, and the regulation of this market by public authorities.