Transforming cider tasting tours with sustainable digital solutions
PROJECT ID
SME Name:
Talava Cidery
Country:
Latvia
Subsector:
Food & beverage
*Thematic Axis and Specific Topic:
*These are Cross-Re-Tour-specific thematic axes inspired by the Transition Pathway for Tourism. The thematic axis were chosen based on what category best reflects the main contributions of the project.
PROJECT SUMMARY & NEEDS
Project summary
TĀLAVA Cidery introduced a digital visitor engagement solution to modernise its cider tourism experience in rural Latvia. Using tablets, QR codes, interactive product information and sustainability nudging, visitors can learn about cider production, local ingredients, circular economy practices and regional heritage. The solution improves visitor engagement, reduces paper use, supports consistent communication and creates a scalable model for sustainable rural tourism.
Exploitation Area(s):
SME needs adressed:
OUTPUTS & OUTCOMES
Solution implemented
TĀLAVA implemented a digital visitor engagement system using tablets and QR-code access points placed throughout the cider tourism experience. The system provides interactive information on cider production, local ingredients, sustainability practices, circular economy and regional heritage. It was designed to support guided and self-guided visits, reduce paper-based materials and make communication more consistent. The solution aims to improve visitor engagement, sustainability awareness, staff efficiency and product promotion during and after the tour.
Cross-Domain Innovation element
The project adapted digital interpretation and behavioural nudging methods from museums, visitor centres, education and digital marketing to rural food tourism. Tablets, QR codes and interactive storytelling were used to improve visitor engagement, sustainability communication and operational efficiency.
Key ouputs:
Key outcomes (Quantitative)
Key outcomes (Qualitative)
Lesson learned & Best practices:
Digital tools work best when they support, not replace, the human visitor experience. For other tourism SMEs, the key is to combine QR codes, tablets or other digital content with clear storytelling, staff engagement and practical sustainability messages. The solution should be simple to use, easy to update and linked to the real visitor journey. Avoid creating digital content only for the sake of technology; it must make the experience clearer, more engaging and more useful for visitors.