What is Consolidation in the butler model?

In the Butler model, consolidation refers to the stage where a tourist destination experiences a peak in visitor numbers, leading to increased infrastructure development and commercial activity. At this stage, the destination becomes well-established, often resulting in the over-reliance on tourism as a primary economic driver. This can lead to issues such as environmental degradation and loss of local culture, as the focus shifts towards meeting tourist demands. Ultimately, consolidation is a critical phase that sets the stage for potential decline if sustainability is not prioritized.