DNO - Local specialties are gaining more opportunities from the tourism market, but the competitiveness of souvenirs depends on not only quality but also convenience, brand recognition, and the stories behind them.

Before departing Da Nang, Australian visitor Emily Carter stopped by the “Da Nang Quintessence) showcase venue at the international passenger terminal (T2) of Da Nang International Airport which officially opened on July 28.
The space features over 100 items, including tea, cakes, products made from ginseng and medicinal herbs, natural cosmetics, and handcrafted souvenirs.
Ms. Emily Carter was particularly interested in products with English-language information about their ingredients, place of origin, and the people behind their production.
According to her, travelers often look for gifts associated with destinations they have just visited. Therefore, besides beautiful and easy-to-carry packaging, clear product origins and compelling stories are also key factors that make souvenirs more appealing.
Bringing products closer to customers is a way to increase the chances of being chosen, she added.
The opening of two “Da Nang Quintessence” showrooms at the T2 international passenger terminal and Koi Resort & Residence Da Nang opens up more access channels for local businesses.
To be displayed at these showrooms, products must meet food safety requirements, quality certification standards, and other sector-specific regulations. For international visitors, packaging should clearly present information in both Vietnamese and English, including ingredients, origin, nutritional value, expiry date, and usage instructions.
Ms. Ho Thi Oanh, Director of the Da Nang-based Ngoc Oanh Food Co., Ltd.
According to Ms. Ho Thi Oanh, Director of the Ngoc Oanh Food Co., Ltd., gathering signature local products, OCOP-certified items, and outstanding rural industrial products in a professionally curated space helps build consumer confidence and enable businesses to promote their brands to a broader range of customers.
Visitors can browse, compare, and purchase a wide variety of products at a single location instead of traveling to individual producers.
Having products displayed at the airport and a beachfront resort also creates opportunities for businesses to connect with potential partners, expand into new markets, and develop the tourism gift segment.

According to Mr. Nguyen Doan Dong, Chairman of DHTC Da Nang JSC, which manages and operates the display area at Koi Resort & Residence Da Nang, every product showcased there is intended not only for shopping but also to convey the stories of local culture, people, and the craftsmanship behind its creation.
The display space has been designed to complement the resort environment, providing a more professional setting for OCOP products, local specialties, and regional souvenirs to reach visitors.
Deputy Director of the Da Nang Department of Industry and Trade Do Thi Quynh Tram said the “Da Nang Quintessence” locations are part of the city's plan to develop a network of showcase venues for OCOP products, signature local goods, and outstanding rural industrial products at major tourist destinations.
The model is designed to combine shopping with hands-on experiences, allowing visitors to sample tea, coffee, and local delicacies, learn about production processes, and interact with artisans and business owners.
She also emphasized that to achieve sustainable sales, businesses must maintain consistent product quality, competitive pricing, reliable supply, and effective customer engagement even after visitors have returned home.