My special thanks go to the following people and institutions that assisted in the completion of this study. My supervisor, Dr Elmarie Slabbert: Thank you for your guidance and assistance with the research of this study. You inspire your students and serve as an example for us. The Institute for Tourism and Leisure Studies at the North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, and the National Research Foundation (NRF). Thank you very much for the financial assistance and support. Mr. PA Viviers for accompanying and leading the research in Grahamstown and for helping with the graphs, figures and tables. Thank you for all the much needed laughs. Prof Jan du Plessis for your help and guidance with the statistical chapter of the study. Special recognition to the following people: • Herman and Anita Roodt, for your support and love. • Ane Mare, for your hopeful and optimistic influence which was needed at times. You truly will stay with me forever. • Leanne Coetzee, thank you for a priceless friendship, your help and support. • Sonja Wijnja, for your friendship and inspiration. No knowledge is wasted. • The Personnel at the Ferdinand Postma Library for exceptional service. • The statistical department of the Potchefstroom University. I am thankful for my Heavenly Father for giving me the strength and opportunity to accomplish

Abstract | This study attempts to answer one question: are there structural characteristics of the hotel industry that has caused it to historically be reluctant in embracing environmental responsibility? To do so, the study draws on a number of different research areas in different disciplines, including business, management, and environmental management. It also attempts to draw upon industry sources like trade magazines and publications, as well as corporate information and primary interviews with industry stakeholders and insiders. Through a marriage of these sources, the study identifies four levels – property, brand, corporation, and industry – whose characteristics together define the hotel industry structure and have, and will continue to affect, the ability of hotels to implement environmental responsibility programs. The study also suggests how the conclusions and findings from the research contained herein can be applied for both future studies and applications in real-life,on-the-ground scenarios. This document has been formatted to save paper. Print (double sided) only if necessary.

i | P a g e Declaration with regard to independent work I, Esmarie Myburgh, identity number 90070190088084 and student number 21704724, hereby declare that this research submitted to the North West University, for the Master study: Market segmentation of triathletes participating in Ironman South Africa, is my own independent work; and complier with the Code of Academic Integrity, as well as other relevant policies, procedures, rules and regulations of the North West University; and has not been submitted before to any institution by myself or any other person in fulfilment of the requirements for the attainment of any qualification.

Abstract not found

Abstract not found