The young tourist's co-creation nexus: market mavens and existential authenticity as driving forces of intentions to revisit and recommend

PurposeThis study explored the role of market mavens for young tourists and existential authenticity for young tourist co-creation experience. It determines intentions to revisit and intentions to recommend tourism service providers. The theoretical foundation of this study is based upon the macro-micro theory approach of service-dominant (S-D) logic and customer engagement, which explains the idea of tourist co-creation interactivity and value creation between the service provider and tourist.Design/methodology/approachThe positivist deductive approach, survey-based methodology was followed for this study. Data was collected from 349 young tourists who have traveled and contributed to travel services through collaboration and interaction with the service provider. The data were analyzed in SmartPLS, and structured equation modeling technique was used for hypothesis testing.FindingsIt was found that market mavens have a positive impact on young tourist's co-creation process, hence depicting intention to revisit and recommend the tourism service provider. Existential authenticity was also found having positive impact on tourist co-creation and intention to revisit and recommend the service provider. The results show that young tourists plan domestic trips in Pakistan and co-create with service providers.Research limitations/implicationsThis study theoretically and practically contributed in the literature and enhanced the literature concerning mainly the young tourists co-creation. It has also enhanced the knowledge about intentions to revisit and recommend with special focus on market mavens. Also, existential authenticity of the tourist spots was keenly considered in the underlying research.Originality/valueThis study highlights value-creation phenomenon in tourism for younger tourists. Their input is important in the form of creativity and innovation and by incorporating these young tourists in decision-making process. They ensure their ability to participate and design, resulting in loyalty towards service provider.