Local Residents’ Perceptions of the Impact of 2010 EXPO

Abstract

The aim of this study is to examine Shanghai residents’ perceptions of the impact of 2010 EXPO and to identify different groups of residents. A survey using a 42-item impact scale was conducted in Shanghai. The results showed that there were five factors of positive impacts and three of negative impacts. The majority of respondents perceived the impacts of 2010 EXPO positively, particularly those who were employed in the industries closely related to city image enhancement and consolidation. Based on their different perceptions, residents were classified into three groups: Favorers, Realists, and Haters. This study contributes to the existing body of knowledge in an attempt to understand local residents’ perceptions of a mega-event in different economic and cultural settings.

KEYWORDS:

• residents’ perceptions
• 2010 EXPO
• Shanghai

The research for this article was supported by Shanghai Municipal Education Commission (egd08025).