Innovation potential of Slovak spa enterprises: a cluster-based classification approach

This study explores the innovation potential of Slovak spa enterprises by applying a cluster-based classification approach. Using survey data from 21 spa enterprises (75% response rate), 27 internal innovation-related factors were assessed and analysed through Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and k-means clustering. The results reveal five key dimensions of innovation potential, ranging from innovation engagement and external cooperation to professional expertise and technological readiness. Based on cluster analysis, the study identifies two groups of Slovak spa enterprises reflecting differences in the importance they attribute to internal innovation factors and their self-reported innovation-related engagement: (1) more conservative enterprises with lower prioritisation of innovation drivers and limited innovation investment, and (2) more innovation-oriented enterprises characterised by higher prioritisation of internal drivers, collaborative engagement, and higher reported innovation investment. The findings contribute to the underexplored area of medical spa-related tourism innovation in Slovakia and provide practical insights into how regulated and traditional tourism subsectors may enhance competitiveness and sustainability through innovation-oriented strategies and cooperation.