Models and projects for the development of industrial tourism in Biella’s district

The elaboration is intended to analyze the offer and possible developments of industrial tourism in the Biellese territory. In the first chapter, the concept of industrial tourism and related activities is examined from a theoretical point of view. In addition, a geographical overview of the Biellese territory will be made, and the tourist flows recorded in recent years will be analyzed. The second chapter will present the Natural Fibre Connect case study, an international event organized in the Biellese district by the Schneider Group on the theme of sustainable textile fibres; the week's organization includes several mill visits before the conference days. This type of industrial tourism is mainly dedicated to business tourists and stakeholders of all categories related to the textile industry, but it can implement also the promotion of industrial tourism in the area of Biella. Participants' interest was assessed through a satisfaction form provided to attendees to express their impressions and evaluations on the business visits and the conferences they attended. In conclusion, the third chapter will present the work in cooperation with Unione Industriale Biellese on the evaluation of business visits by citizens and host companies. Unione Industriale Biellese is focusing on the development and implementation of industrial tourism; last May, a pilot project related to business visits entitled "Giro d'Impresa" was launched to coincide with a major event in Biella, the second stage of the 2024 Giro d'Italia. The analysis of the results of the business visits will help to understand in which direction to turn the future and the development of industrial tourism through the storytelling of business culture in the territory.