An Overview of Personal Selling with Cigarette Sales at Tourist Attractions in Medan City

Abstract

The study purpose was … This study aims to describe personal selling practices in cigarette sales at tourist sites in Medan City. The background of this study is based on the phenomenon of increasing cigarette sales activities in tourist areas involving direct interaction between sellers and tourists, thereby giving rise to economic, social, and regulatory dynamics.

Materials and methods. The study uses a quantitative approach with a descriptive design, involving 70 cigarette seller respondents selected through accidental sampling. Data were collected through observation, interviews, and questionnaires, then analyzed univariately and bivariately using Pearson's correlation test.

Results. The results show that the majority of sellers are street vendors (71.4%) operating in natural tourist locations (64.3%), with cigarette displays mostly placed at the front (75.7%). Most respondents were active smokers (70%), and the highest sales volume was in the range of 6–10 packs per week (42.9%).

Conclussion. The personal selling strategies used tended to be persuasive, relaxed, and tailored to the characteristics of tourists. This activity contributes to the local economy but presents challenges in terms of health regulations, tourism image, and the sustainability of tourist destinations. This study is expected to provide input for policymakers, tourism managers, and the community in balancing economic aspects with public health and tourism sustainability.