International Journal of Economics, Management and Tourism
The International Journal of Economics, Management and Tourism (IJEMT) is published by the Faculty of Tourism and Business logistics at University “Goce Delchev”, Shtip, N. Macedonia. The journal is dedicated to the advancement of interdisciplinary research and practices across economics, management, and tourism, and become a leading journal in its field. Each submitted paper will be sent for blinded peer review. The IJEMT is peer-reviewed and issued two times per year, in both online version and printed version[*]. All manuscripts should be classified according to JEL Classification System https://www.aeaweb.org/econlit/jelCodes.php?view=jel [*] - Printed version of IJEMT e-ISSN. Printing on demand - Extra fee will be charged to the author/s.
Faculty of Tourism and Business Logistics, Goce Delcev University, Stip, North Macedonia
IMPORTANCE OF MEASURING SERVICE QUALITY IN THE SERVICE INDUSTRY
Measuring service quality is essential for ensuring greater customer satisfaction as well as sustainable competitiveness in service industries. This research examines methodologies for assessing service quality and their essential role in driving customer satisfaction and loyalty, with a focus on their practical application in service industries. Also, the application of various methods and tools for assessing service quality has highlighted the importance of measuring service quality, due to customer retention, operational efficiency and overall profitability. The research highlighted the impact of measuring service quality by building customer loyalty, improving employee performance, and achieving long-term business success
Copyright (c) 2025 International Journal of Economics, Management and Tourism
THE ROLE OF STANDARDIZATION IN THE FOOD INDUSTRY
Standardization and the implementation of standards are vital in the food industry and ensure safe and quality products, increasing the customers’ loyalty. Furthermore, the process has a great role in the promotion of economic stability. The standards implementation process enables safer food products, improved operational efficiency and greater accountability within the food industry. As the global food supply chain becomes more complex, the importance of these standards is greater. The most common standards implemented in the food industry are ISO 22000, HASSP, GMP, etc. By introducing these standards, organizations improve their food safety practices, but also meet the needs of the customers. Standardization is a legal requirement, builds trust in food products and increases market stability. Standardized products save time, energy and money, and increase competitiveness and consumers’ loyalty.
Copyright (c) 2024 International Journal of Economics, Management and Tourism
BRIEF HISTORICAL ACCOUNT OF THE HOTEL INDUSTRY IN BITOLA (On the occasion of 180 years since the first hotel in Bitola 1843)
The occasion for this work is 180 years since the first hotel in the city of Bitola, in 1843. The text is supported by selected photos and a table through which a brief historical development of the accommodation facilities in the city in the last two centuries. The purpose of the research is to determine the appearance of the first hotel, other accommodation facilities, their classification, the division by types and time periods. The first accommodation facilities were caravanserais and anns. From the middle of the 19th century, the first hotels appeared, and later other types of accommodation facilities appeared in the city. The entire paper is presented chronologically through six periods and follows the development of the hotel industry in the city of Bitola. The research uses several sources, archival documents, scientific and professional papers, monographs, books and interviews.
an, caravanserai, hotels, hotel industry, Bitola, RN Macedonia
Copyright (c) 2023 International Journal of Economics, Management and Tourism
CHALLENGES IN MANAGING EMPLOYEES WITH DIFFERENT CHARACTERISTICS
Inclusive management of diversity in the work environment is essential to organizational success and productivity in today's globalized world. With employees who differ in terms of culture, generation, gender and socio-economic background, organizations face unique challenges as well as opportunities. The inclusion of all team members, regardless of their characteristics, not only improves team dynamics, but also increases innovation and employee engagement. Research shows that inclusive cultures have a significantly higher rate of employee satisfaction, which in turn leads to increased loyalty and a better reputation for the organization. The role of inclusive leadership is crucial in creating a work environment where diversity is valued. Leaders with cultural intelligence and empathy contribute to the development of trust and cooperation in teams, which supports organizational growth and productivity. By using cultural competence training and introducing inclusive policies, companies create conditions in which employees can express their potential and feel valued. In conclusion, inclusive management not only helps to overcome differences, but also lays the foundation for long-term success and positive organizational development.
inclusive management, management challenges, cultural intelligence
IMPLEMENTATION OF TQM TOOLS FOR OPTIMAL RESULTS: TOOLS FOR BETTER PRODUCTS
Total quality management (TQM) represents a strategic approach with a goal for better quality of the products through the integration of its techniques and tools for continuous improvement of the processes, increased satisfaction and fulfillment of the customers’ expectations. By introducing the TQM, better quality of procucts and services is obtained, costs are redusts, and greater market penetration is enabled. This research is aimed at the appreciation and understanding of the need for introducing TQM tools such as Pareto Chart, Control Charts, Flow Charts, Fishbone diagram, Checksheet, Histogram and Scatter diagram. Also, it evaluates their effectiveness in achieving optimal results in production processes. Additionally, the paper points out organizations which have successfully implemented TQM and its tools demonstrating their ability to deliver defect-free products thereby gaining the loyalty of their customers as well as acquiring new ones. This paper highlighted the importance of TQM implementation through the introduction of best practices and innovative techniques.
This paper is about Ben-Porath model of human capital investments and non-trivial labor supply decisions throughout the lifetime of the individual. In Ben-Porath model without taxation: The time allocation condition ensures optimal trade-offs between leisure, work, and investment in human capital. Shadow price of human capital is increasing over time. In Ben-Porath-Huggett model Mirrlees taxation is the best option when skill is private knowledge, Ramsey taxation requires subsidies to prevent human capital stagnation. Pareto taxation is the second-best solution when redistribution is a goal. Ramsey taxation yields highest government revenues, Mirrlees and Pareto taxes yield highest utility.
THE CHALLENGES OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS IN THE POST-COVID ERA
The Covid-19 pandemic has significantly transformed international relations, exposing critical vulnerabilities in global cooperation frameworks. This paper explores the multifaceted challenges that have emerged in the post-Covid era, focusing on political, economic, security, and socio-cultural dimensions. The initial global response was marked by a surge in nationalism and isolationism, disrupting established multilateral systems and exacerbating geopolitical tensions, particularly between major powers such as the United States and China. Trust in international institutions, including the WHO and the UN, has declined, highlighting the urgent need for reform and stronger global coordination mechanisms. Economically, the pandemic caused widespread supply chain disruptions, increased unemployment, and widened inequality, compelling nations to reconsider their dependency on global networks. In terms of security, the crisis emphasized the importance of cybersecurity and health systems as integral components of national and global stability. Moreover, the pandemic catalyzed social and cultural shifts, with digitalization redefining communication, work, and education, while mental health and local resilience emerged as key priorities. The research underscores the necessity of revitalizing multilateralism and developing adaptive strategies for future crises. By analyzing the pandemic’s long-term impact on international relations, this paper advocates for stronger international solidarity, inclusive governance, and sustainable global policies. The findings aim to contribute to a deeper understanding of the post-Covid international order and provide strategic insights for building a more resilient and cooperative global community.
diplomacy, multilateralism, geopolitical tensions
EXCHANGE RATE REGIMES AND INFLATIONARY INSTABILITY IN SMALL AND OPEN ECONOMIES: FROM CRISIS TO ECONOMIC RECOVERY
This paper explores the relationship between exchange rate regimes and inflationary instability in small open economies, focusing on their role during periods of crisis and economic recovery. Small economies, due to their high degree of openness and limited monetary autonomy, are particularly vulnerable to external shocks and currency fluctuations. The choice of exchange rate regime—whether fixed, floating, or intermediate—plays a significant role in shaping inflationary trends and overall macroeconomic stability. Through an analysis of various regime types and their historical impact on developing countries, the paper highlights the importance of consistent and well-coordinated monetary and fiscal policies. Special attention is given to the challenges of maintaining price stability amid global uncertainty and the mechanisms through which exchange rate policy can either mitigate or amplify inflation. The findings emphasize that while no one-size-fits-all solution exists, flexible and credible exchange rate frameworks, combined with institutional resilience, are key to sustaining long-term economic recovery in small open economies.
еxchange rate regimes, Inflation, economic crisis, recovery
THE IMPACT OF EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION AND APPLICATION OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) IN BUSINESS COMMUNICATION CHANNELS
In the modern digital society, effective communication is one of the key factors for success in business. At the same time, artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming an important tool for improving communication processes, enabling automation, personalization and better availability of information. This paper aims to explore the impact of effective communication and the application of AI on business communication channels. Through an analysis of relevant scientific literature and contemporary practices, the basic principles of effective communication, traditional and modern business communication channels, as well as the way in which AI transforms these channels are reviewed. Special emphasis is placed on the use of chatbots, email automation tools, sentiment analysis and translation services. This manuscript identifies key benefits from the application of AI, such as increased efficiency, improved user experience and resource optimization, but also potential risks such as lack of empathy, privacy threats and misinterpretation of messages. Also, it concludes with recommendations for a balanced and ethical integration of AI in business communication.
THE IMPLICATIONS OF ADVERTISING AND SOCIAL MEDIA ON CONSUMER AWARENESS AND BEHAVIOR
With the expansion of digital technologies, advertising strategies are evolving significantly on a daily basis, influencing consumer awareness and behavior by personalizing and making consumption experiences more interactive. The aim of this paper is to analyze the implications that advertising and social media have on consumer awareness and behavior. A comparison is made between traditional and modern methods and approaches to advertising, with a focus on emotional, cognitive, and behavioral influence. Influencers (prominent figures on social media), individualized advertising algorithms, and user-generated content tailored to consumer needs are highlighted as contemporary advertising tools. This research indicates that consumers—especially from younger age groups—often make impulsive purchases due to the constant exposure to social media content from various brands and influencers who frequently advertise brands through tailored content (setting trends), which is often considered manipulative rather than authentic and based on personal views regarding product quality. Although consumers have access to information before making purchases, due to limited product research and the ease of succumbing to persuasive ads, such opportunities are rarely used. This paper will offer recommendations for ethical advertising and help consumers better understand the purpose of digital advertising.
EUROPEAN BUSINESS, STRUCTURE AND PERFORMANCE
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are key to the economy, creating more than 85% of new jobs in Europe. To ensure sustainable development, SMEs should be a priority in national and international strategy, supported through laws, by-laws and development mechanisms. According to the European Union, nine out of ten enterprises are SMEs, generating two out of every three jobs and contributing significantly to global market sustainability.
Europe, business, small and medium-sized enterprises, strategy, performance, economy, politics
This paper analyses the development of regulatory frameworks in the context of growing technologies and new industry models. Research focuses on the need for regulators to adapt in a world of rapid technological change, balancing the need to foster innovation and protect public welfare. Through an analysis of successful and failed examples of regulatory approaches, the importance of flexibility, innovation, and collaboration between industry, government, and academia is highlighted. Properly implemented regulation in emerging industries is key to creating confidence, protecting consumers, and sustaining growth.
Regulatory frameworks, Technologies, Innovation, Data protection, Sustainable growth
NORMATIVE BELIEFS AS A FACTOR FOR DEVELOPMENT OF THE ENTREPRENEURIAL INITIATIVE AMONG YOUNG PEOPLE
In order to find the real essence of youth entrepreneurial behaviour, the paper investigates those determinants that are part of social environment and have the greatest influence on the decision of young people to undertake an entrepreneurial venture. The paper is based on theoretical postulates of the Theory of Planned Behaviour. The conclusions are drawn from the primary data obtained from empirical research conducted in the Republic of North Macedonia among young students aged 18 to 29 years. The findings show that young people recognize the acceptance of the business community as the most important factor for an entrepreneurial decision.
youth entrepreneurship, entrepreneurial behaviour, Theory of planned behaviour
REGIONAL VALORIZATION OF TOURIST POTENTIAL IN THE R.N. MACEDONIA
The main goal of the paper is to present the tourist valorization of natural and anthropogenic attractive motifs in the R.N. of Macedonia by planning regions. In the research, we evaluate 400 tourist attractions, of which 160 are natural and 240 are anthropogenic motifs. In the evaluation, all eight planning regions are represented by 50 tourist attractions, of which 20 are natural and 30 are anthropogenic. We carry out the valorization process through 10 parameters and evaluate each one with three numerical values. The conclusion presents the main specificities of the tourism potentials for each region separately and for the R.N. Macedonia as a whole.
natural, anthropogenic, attractiveness, valorization, regions
TRAFFIC INFRASTRUCTURE OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF PRILEP
With this scientific paper we want to show the key role, i.e. the importance of the traffic infrastructure for the transport of passengers and goods in the city to the villages and neighboring municipalities, in the function of developing tourism and the economy of the municipality of Prilep. The geographical position of the municipality of Prilep within North Macedonia is given. The municipality of Prilep is presented on a geographical map with the areas of all 58 rural settlements as well as the type of roads that pass through the municipality itself and the connection with neighboring municipalities. The scientific paper provides a traffic map for city bus transport in the city of Prilep. Furthermore, the scientific paper covers a growing number of objects and provides an overview of the entire road and rail traffic infrastructure that exists in the municipality of Prilep. The entire road infrastructure is presented both in the city and to 58 rural settlements and neighboring municipalities according to the category of the road, traffic transport companies, bus transport companies, bus stations, car services, auto electrical services, auto tire repairers, road towing services, gas stations, taxi companies and railway transport in the municipality of Prilep. Each transport company has a specific purpose for which it exists, and the management has the responsibility to use and combine organizational resources in the most optimal way, thus achieving the goal of the transport companies.
traffic, infrastructure, companies, goals, profitability, economy, tourism
ANALYTICAL APPROACH OF MANAGEMENT AND ITS APPLICATION IN THE PROCESS OF FINANCIAL DECISION-MAKING IN TOURISM ENTERPRISES
With managerial activities, it is necessary to address the problems that arise during the operation of the tourism enterprise. In this way, the desired state is ensured, that is, the achievement of the enterprise's goals in the field of tourism. The essence of managerial activities is decision-making. Management decisions are made in situations characterized by the need for action and the existence of multiple lines of action. At the same time, linking these activities into the function of making the right decisions is a basic condition and task of the financial manager. Of course, all this in the directionof achieving the ultimate goal, increasing shareholder wealth. In this regard, financial management, and especially in tourism, should give an answer to the optimal use of funds, i.e. the use of funds, the provision of sources of financing, the provision of optimal cost of the capital employed, the decision on the distribution of profits, the dividend policy, in order to achieve the stated ultimate goal. The application of an analytical approach in financial decision-making in enterprises in the field of tourism in the Republic of Macedonia is very important for a more efficient and effective realization of the goals.
tourism, finance, planning, decision-making, companies
THE USE OF QUALITY MANAGEMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES
This research aims to present various methods and techniques for improving business processes through proactive management. The contemporary approach to process management requires a rapid response to enhance or halt the production process, with quality control emerging as an operational activity primarily focused on process improvement, rather than merely an activity that monitors the current state. For manufacturers to meet consumer expectations, they must adjust the design of the production process, the performance of machines, acquire necessary equipment and technology, use appropriate materials, ensure skilled workers with continuous training and supervision, all while applying Total Quality Management (TQM). Process management, as a key factor in customer acquisition, involves a continuous search for the best technical, technological, marketing, and other improvements. To achieve this, all phases of the process—from the input elements of production and the production process to the creation of the new product—are controlled. The central question addressed in this paper is: How can methods such as Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (FMEA) and other approaches be optimally applied to eliminate errors in industrial processes to improve quality and productivity? The aim of this paper is not only to analyze the application of FMEA but also to identify the most effective strategies for implementation, best practices, and possible improvements in business processes.
management, quality, optimization, business processes, improvement.
CAREER CHOICE AND ЕFFECTIVE CAREER MANAGEMENT: ENTREPRENEURSHIP AS BASIS ON THE WAY TO CAREER
This paper identifies the importance of effective career management and need for organizational support for employees’ career management. Effective career management refers to the policies and practices deliberately designed by the organizations in order to enhance the career effectiveness of their employees. We examined empirically the relationship between opinions of employees about strategy that is most important in career and their opinions about effective career management. In research data were gathered and analyzed from 102 employees. Some of the opinions of the employees emphasize that a career strategy is a process of realization of the idea for one’s own career progress. Their opinions point out that effective career management refers to continuous personal and professional upgrade. By understanding what we want in our careers and how this will affect our nonwork activities, we can be in a better position to plan our future.
career management, career strategy, entrepreneurial goals, process, employees
Copyright (c) 2022 International Journal of Economics, Management and Tourism
ANALYSIS OF TOURIST MOVEMENTS BY TYPES OF PLACES IN R.N. MACEDONIA FROM 1961 TO 2021
The paper deals with tourist movements by types of places in RN. Macedonia[1] for selected years from the period 1961 - 2021. The analysis of tourist movements was made on the basis of extensive statistical data on tourists and overnight stays, for five groups of types of tourist places: Skopje, spa, mountain, lake and others. The purpose of the paper is to see the participation and the role of each type of tourist site in tourist movements for the entire statistical period of 60 years. The text is the result of the analysis of ten thematic tables and ten graphs, all integral parts of the paper. The paper presents the reasons for fluctuations in tourist movements by types of places, and recommendations are given for the growth and improvement of tourist movements by types of places. [1] Additions to the name Macedonia due to political reasons in the last eight decades (1944-2019): Democratic Federal Republic of Macedonia, DFRM (1944-1946); People's Republic of Macedonia, PRM (1946-1963); Socialist Republic of Macedonia, SRM (1963-1991); Republic of Macedonia, RM (1991-2019), recognized by 133 countries worldwide; application to the UN with temporary reference Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, FYROM (1993-2019); Republic of Northern Macedonia, RNM (2019-). https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/North_Macedonia retrieved on 08.12.2021. In the text, we will use the abbreviated name of the country, that is, only the initial letters of the adjectives or RN Macedonia.
tourism, domestic, foreign, tourists, overnight stays, types of tourist places
THE IMPORTANCE OF THE PLANNING FUNCTION IN THE BUSINESS FINANCIAL DECISION-MAKING PROCESS IN TOURISM ENTERPRISES
Planning is an introduction to selecting findings and goals, and the first activity to successfully implement the above. The result of the planning process is the plans. Many elements that go into the plans, before being taken for consideration, should be selected in detail. Plans are made for different intervals. They strongly imply not only new ideas but also sensitivity, equipment in the workplace and so on. It should be apostrophed that the plan is a means of action and a way to achieve the goal. If planning is efficient, it can also be expected to be successfully implemented
MANAGEMENT AND POSSIBLE SCENARIOS FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE EUROCITY CHAVES-VERIN PROJECT
The European Union (EU) and its territories depend on increased synergy between cohesion policies and strategies to promote competitiveness, as well as on the development of sectoral policies enabling less-favoured territories to face the challenges of globalization by applying cross-border, transnational and interregional approach. Cross-border, transnational and interregional cooperation has already added and continues to create added not only European, political, institutional, economic, but also socio-cultural value. Such an example of cooperation is Eurocity Chaves-Verin, located on both sides of the Spanish-Portuguese border.
KRIPKE SEMANTICS, COMMON KNOWLEDGE, BOUNDED RATIONALITY AND AUMANN’S AGREEMENT THEOREM
The first model with k-level thinking with Gaussian noise shows that small deviations for common knowledge led to “almost” common knowledge equilibria. The second model demonstrated the semantic economy idea: as agents exchange and adapt beliefs, they create shared informational value by reaching a consensus that reflects network-wide insights rather than mere individual optimization. Higher reasoning depth does not change Nash equilibria but shifts up Kantian beliefs. The shift up in Kantian beliefs suggests a greater alignment toward strategies that maximize collective welfare, rather than purely individualistic or competitive outcomes. This doesn't alter the Nash equilibrium, where players still act independently, but it emphasizes a higher baseline of cooperative or altruistic expectations among players due to more profound belief hierarchies in the reasoning process. In the third model: networked economic context where agents interact in an economic network where competitive advantage depends on the informational value generated across the network, results differ from the second example: Nash beliefs adjust based on others' best responses (shift up), while Kantian beliefs account for mutual benefit, dampening large shifts. Nash and Kantian equilibria differ when only three agents exist versus network economy.
Inclusive management of diversity in the work environment is essential to organizational success and productivity in today's globalized world. With employees who differ in terms of culture, generation, gender and socio-economic background, organizations face unique challenges as well as opportunities. The inclusion of all team members, regardless of their characteristics, not only improves team dynamics, but also increases innovation and employee engagement. Research shows that inclusive cultures have a significantly higher rate of employee satisfaction, which in turn leads to increased loyalty and a better reputation for the organization. The role of inclusive leadership is crucial in creating a work environment where diversity is valued. Leaders with cultural intelligence and empathy contribute to the development of trust and cooperation in teams, which supports organizational growth and productivity. By using cultural competence training and introducing inclusive policies, companies create conditions in which employees can express their potential and feel valued. In conclusion, inclusive management not only helps to overcome differences, but also lays the foundation for long-term success and positive organizational development
COMPULSORY OIL RESERVES OF THE RNM - status and challenges
The supply of crude oil and oil products in the EU is a very important issue, especially for the transport sector and the chemical industry. The concentration of production, the reduction of oil reserves and the increased consumption of oil products worldwide contribute to an increased risk of supply difficulties. The European Council in the Action Plan 2007 to 2009, within the Energy Policy of Europe, emphasized the need to strengthen the security of the supply of oil reserves to the European Union, as well as to each EU member state, with the aim of oil availability in case of crises. The Energy policy of Europe imposes the need for greater compatibility of the European Community system with the system envisaged by the International Energy Agency. In accordance with Council Directive 2006/67/EC of July 24, 2006, the obligation of EU member states to keep minimum reserves of crude oil and/or oil derivatives is imposed[1]. Oil reserves are calculated based on the average daily domestic consumption during the previous calendar year. However, reserve holding obligations under the International Energy Program Agreement of November 18, 1974 are calculated on the basis of net imports of oil and petroleum products. For that reason and as a result of other differences in the methodology, the way in which the obligations to keep compulsory reserves and emergency reserves of the EU are calculated, with the directive 2009/119/EC of the Council of September 14, 2009, it is stipulated that the Member States should pass laws, regulations or other administrative provisions by which the stocks of oil reserves until December 31, 2012, will be at a level of at least 90 days of average daily net import or 61 days of average daily consumption in the country, respectively which of the two quantities is bigger. The Law on Compulsory Oil Reserves of the RSM regulates the obligation to ensure a high level of security of the supply of crude oil and oil derivatives through the creating, storing and maintenance of minimum stocks of crude oil and/or oil derivatives in the form of compulsory oil reserves. the manner and conditions of creation, storage and maintainance of the compulsory oil reserves, introducing the necessary procedures for intervention in order to deal with a severe shortages of oil derivatives in the market and other issues of importance for the compulsory reserves. This Law began to be applied from 01.01.2021 and it partially transposes the Directive 2009/119/EU, compulsory reserves should be formed gradually in order to ensure the total compulsory reserves kept at all times in the Republic of N. Macedonia to correspond to at least 90 days of daily average net imports or 61 days of average daily domestic consumption, in the previous calendar year, depending on which of the two stated quantities is bigger. The formation of compulsory reserves of oil and oil derivatives is a process of procurement of crude oil and/or oil derivatives and their storage in storage facilities, thus providing conditions for intervention supply to the market with oil derivatives in case of disruption of the energy security of the state caused by large-scale supply disruptions. The central body for keeping oil reserves is the RSM is Compulsory Oil Reserves Agency, which is authorized to establish, maintenance, storage and selling of the compulsory oil reserves. Storage and maintenance of the oil reserves is the responsibility of the trading companies – warehouses keepers, which in their tank capacities should store, keep and replenish crude oil and/or oil derivatives from the compulsory reserves. [1] Official gazette L 217, 8.8.2006.,page 8.
APPLICATION OF THE AGGLOMERATIVE CLUSTERING PROCEDURE FOR ASSESSING THE CIRCULARITY OF THE EUROPEAN UNION COUNTRIES
The circular economy represents a regenerative concept of the functioning of the economy and society, which aims at a more efficient allocation of resources and their use with the application of the principles of recycling and reducing the rate of waste generation to protect the environment. At the same time, the circular economy transforms and absorbs the existing industrial waste generation to create energy that encourages the further sustainable development of industrial ecosystems by directing processes to improve general business conditions. The primary methodological framework of this research is based on the selection of circular economy indicators and their performance at the level of the European Union for the five years 2017-2021, based on the latest available data from the Eurostat Database. By analyzing the five-year average values of circular economy indicators, using hierarchical cluster analysis using the agglomerative procedure, the European Union members are grouped by similarity into six clusters. Descriptive statistics within a cluster can determine the dominance of a particular cluster and progress in the area of the circular economy. Based on the results obtained, the most significant progress in circular performance was achieved by Croatia, Estonia and Latvia.
DIGITAL NOMADS AS CONTEMPORARY FORM OF BUSINESS TOURISM
Business tourism is a term used to describe all travel that results directly from work duties or indirectly in the performance of work-related activities. This includes activities related to daily work duties, but also travel for corporate or organizational meetings, conventions and congresses. Digital nomad is a term used to describe people who use telecommunication technologies in their work and live a nomadic life. Digital nomads work from different countries, in different spatial conditions such as cafes, libraries, recreational vehicles, etc. The subject of this paper is the digital nomads as contemporary form of business tourism. The paper presents review of research concerning digital nomads and business tourism. For the purpose of the paper, a research methodology and secondary data sources have been used by consulting literature, studies, statistical data and official web pages of institutions concerning digital nomads and business travel. An analysis and review of different types of nomads and destinations offering digital nomad visa in selected Mediterranean countries has been made, based on a systematic evaluation of the current content of relevant literature using methodology of content analysis.
OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF RELIGIOUS TOURISM IN BULGARIA
Religious tourism is a specialized type of tourism in which people travel individually or in groups to religious destinations, outside their usual environment, in order to consume religious values ​​in one form or another. Religiously motivated travel is as old as religion itself, and thus religious tourism is the oldest type of tourism dating back to ancient times. Bulgaria has significant religious tourism resources and can specialize in this type of tourism.
TOURIST PLACES, FACILITIES AND EVENTS THAT MACEDONIANS SHOULD VISIT
Identity is a trait, a property, a sense of something that exists and that stands out and differs from others. Macedonian identity is a unique feature of an ancient nation with its own language that existed and still exists on the territory of Macedonia. The uniqueness of the Macedonian identity is a multi-millennium mosaic layered and supported by a diverse natural and cultural heritage. The aim of the paper is to strengthen the Macedonian patriotic identity through tourism by identifying tourist places, facilities and events that Macedonians should visit to confirm their continued existence at home, in the immediate neighborhood and beyond to promote cosmopolitanism. Whether Macedonians will make the visit with a physical presence individually or organized through travel agencies, or virtually using the Internet - modern technology for education, is a personal decision of every Macedonian. The material in the paper is divided into three parts. The first part mentions tourist places, facilities and events in the area of ​​RS Macedonia. We are talking about locations that reflect the continuity of Macedonia and Macedonians from the earliest days until today. From the large number of locations, we single out the most important tourist places, facilities and events that Macedonians should visit. The second part mentions tourist places, facilities and events in neighboring countries, as well as in other countries on the Balkan Peninsula and in Europe, which should be visited by Macedonians, because they are important for Macedonian patriotic identity and cosmopolitanism. In the third part, there are listed tourist locations in countries on other continents that are significant for Macedonians and should be visited for the purpose of strengthening Macedonian patriotism, identity and cosmopolitanism. The selection of tourist locations - places, objects and events are grouped by time period of creation, type (natural and anthropogenic) and geographical location. At the end, in the conclusion, we give an overview of sister cities from Macedonia with cities in the world, and there are over 300 cities that Macedonians should know and visit for the sake of tourism promotion of Macedonia and the Macedonian people in the world
QUALITY SYSTEM MANAGEMENT IN THE HOTEL INDUSTRY IN THE REPUBLIC OF NORTH MACEDONIA
The introduction of the TQM (Total Quality Management) system in the hotel industry requires a complete understanding of the needs and demands of tourists, respect for the established standards and the creation of products with superior values that will meet or exceed their expectations with their quality. Total quality management applies to the entire organization, in all hotel activities and functions (reception, accommodation, procurement, sales, marketing, kitchen block, service, technical maintenance, hygienic maintenance, etc.). In this way, the established system will enable the hotel company to continuously improve its performance, whereas the needs of all interested parties participating in the process of creating and delivering the hotel product must not be neglected. Analyzing the findings of the research, this paper provides guidelines for the direction in which the hotels in the Republic of North Macedonia should move by applying the principles of the process orientation, based on the process approach and management of the entire value chain.
business processes, hotel service, TQM (Total Quality Management) system
NEOBANKS ROLE IN SUPPORTING FINANCIAL INCLUSION
Financial inclusion has a significant impact on economic growth and development and improves the living standards of individuals in emerging economies. However, today, there are still individuals and businesses in developing and low-income economies that are unbanked or underserved with limited access to basic banking services. It must be noted that during the last two decades, many instruments, tools, and programs have been developed to support financial inclusion, which yielded positive results. However, the challenges and barriers remain to be further addressed and resolved to increase financial inclusion. The challenges originate on the supply side as well as the demand for financial services. Neobanks, as technologically advanced financial institutions, are valuable instruments in overcoming key barriers to financial inclusion. The manner in which neobanks’ operations are structured enables them to easily adapt their products and serve even the smallest groups or segments with similar needs. Affordable financial services are also provided by neobanks as a result of their higher operational efficiency compared to traditional banks.
Neobank, financial inclusion, traditional banks, financial services, financial literacy