About Cooperativa paranaense de turismo
Cooperativa Paranaense de Turismo: Revolutionizing the Tourism Industry with Cooperative Principles
Cooperativa Paranaense de Turismo, also known as Cooptur, is a pioneering cooperative enterprise that has created a unique business structure with its own statutes and internal regulations. The company follows the principles of the World Tourism Organization's Global Code of Ethics for Tourism, as well as the principles of cooperativism and the Charter of Principles for Cooperative Tourism.
Cooptur was founded in 1997 by a group of tourism professionals who recognized the need for a new approach to tourism that would prioritize sustainability, social responsibility, and community development. They believed that by working together in a cooperative framework, they could create more equitable and sustainable tourism practices that would benefit both tourists and local communities.
Today, Cooptur is one of Brazil's leading cooperative enterprises in the tourism industry. It has over 200 members who are involved in various aspects of tourism such as accommodation providers, tour operators, transportation services providers, restaurants and cafes owners among others. The company operates primarily in Paraná state but also offers tours to other regions within Brazil.
One key aspect that sets Cooptur apart from other companies is its commitment to sustainable tourism practices. The company believes that responsible travel should not only benefit tourists but also contribute positively to local communities' economic development while preserving their cultural heritage and natural resources.
To achieve this goal, Cooptur works closely with local communities to develop sustainable tourism products such as eco-tourism activities or cultural tours. These products are designed to showcase local culture while minimizing negative impacts on natural resources or disrupting traditional ways of life.
Another important aspect of Cooptur's work is its focus on promoting social inclusion through employment opportunities for marginalized groups such as women or people living with disabilities. By providing training programs and job opportunities within the tourism industry, Cooptur helps these groups to become more economically independent and socially integrated.
Cooptur's cooperative structure also ensures that all members have an equal say in the company's decision-making processes. This democratic approach to management helps to foster a sense of ownership and accountability among members, which ultimately benefits both the company and its customers.
In terms of services, Cooptur offers a wide range of tourism products such as city tours, adventure tours, cultural tours, eco-tourism activities, and customized travel packages. The company also provides transportation services for tourists who want to explore Paraná state or other regions within Brazil.
Overall, Cooptur is a shining example of how cooperative principles can be applied successfully in the tourism industry. By prioritizing sustainability, social responsibility, and community development over profit maximization, Cooptur has created a unique business model that benefits both its members and the wider community. If you're looking for an ethical and sustainable way to explore Brazil's natural beauty or cultural heritage while supporting local communities' economic development - look no further than Cooptur!