Craft routes for developing craft business in South Africa: Is it a good practice or limited policy option?

The establishment of themed routes by packaging together geographically disparate tourism products is an important issue in tourism planning. New interest has been raised around the potential of craft routes. This article examines the utility of craft routes for developing the craft sector. In the context of South Africa it is argued craft development is promoted through a number of existing initiatives, including the establishment of integrated craft hubs and support for attendance at trade shows. The international and South African experience highlights several promising initiatives for craft sector development and suggests the establishment of craft routes offers only a marginal policy option for growing craft sector businesses.