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Abstract

The main purpose of the article is to explain the basic concepts related to regional marketing and to propound a model of region branding. Design/methodology/approach: The study incorporates the results of a study on various aspects related to region branding. The process of branding, especially implementation of the region brand, usually is a long and complex undertaking. It certainly should take into account the specificity (nature) of the region. The model proposed in the paper includes the most important and universal aspects of region branding. The following assumptions have been made, which constitute the basis of many such model studies propounded by the authors of foreign and domestic models. Findings: The process of building a region's image and reputation is associated with its search for ways to present its strengths and the increasingly effective methods supporting development and competitiveness. Region branding and its management has become a phenomenon undertaken quite commonly as to communicate the region's competitive advantages to its internal and external stakeholders. Poland's accession to the European Union meant that native places (regions) should also be recognizable, positively associated, offering above-average values for consumers, tourists as well as Polish and foreign investors. Practical implications: The strategic plan developed for implementation of the region brand indicates the methods and tools, arranged by functional areas and their initial planning in time. Another challenge that is quite important in the implementation phase is the development of a system for diffusion of the region brand's guiding idea to various institutions, entities and groups that are partners in the region brand implementation program. Social implications: The main (key) strategic objective of region brand implementation program is to transfer the guiding idea and the knowledge about the program to lower levels, as to facilitate the greatest possible reach and support of local communities. Originality/value: This paper presents selected results of the study on various aspects associated with regional marketing. One of the research objectives was to build the model of that includes the most important and universal aspects of region branding.