Growth and profit-oriented entrepreneurship among family business owners in the tourism and hospitality industry

Surveys were conducted among family business owners in the tourism and hospitality industry in two resort areas (one in Canada and one in Denmark) with a view to identifying growth and profit-oriented entrepreneurs. Analysis of owners’ attitudes and goals reveals the predominance of lifestyle and autonomy orientations, but also profiles those who are more profit and growth oriented. This small sub-group differs somewhat in the two resorts—in both cases profit and growth orientation is significantly higher among those who purchased their business, particularly accommodation establishments and restaurants. Bed and breakfast and arts and craft businesses are clearly associated with lifestyle and autonomy. Theoretical, management and policy implications are discussed