The show featured a record number of exhibitors, delivered information-packed education programs, and featured sold-out networking events at the Hong Kong attractions event. Asian Attractions Expo, which is organized by the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA), took place at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, 16-19 June.
Based on preliminary estimates, a total of 8,500 people participated in the show from 74 countries, including 6,100 buyers. This is the second highest number of participants in AAE history and represents 65 percent and 91 percent increases, respectively, when compared to the last time the Expo was in Hong Kong (2012).
Owners, executives, managers, and leaders from the region’s theme parks, water parks, family entertainment centers, zoos, aquariums, museums, science centers, and resorts, as well as a number of developers and investors, participated in Asian Attractions Expo 2015.
A record 353 exhibiting companies filled 9,432 net square meters of space on the trade show floor. Exhibitors came from 40 nations and showcased the latest innovations for the attractions industry, including high-tech multiple-dimension motion simulators, roller coasters of all shapes and sizes, next-generation video game concepts, immersive themed design elements and services, interactive water slides, and much more.
Mario Mamon, former IAAPA Chairman of the Board, and Chairman and President of Enchanted Kingdom, Philippines, said: “It’s another unprecedented success and we’re very happy that it’s a good follow through after Beijing. It really shows how exciting the market is and the number of opportunities in this part of the world. What’s more interesting is that we don’t just see the traditional companies here—we see companies from Australia, New Zealand, and Vietnam. These are old and new economies that really have a very vibrant future. All in all it’s another show to end all shows as far as Asia is concerned. And, hopefully, we can do it again in Shanghai next year.”
The IAAPA Institute for Attractions Managers, hosted by Ocean Park Hong Kong, sold out, while the IAAPA Safety Institute was also well attended. The education conference at AAE featured industry leaders from around the world who addressed topics including: what’s new in Asia, implementing effective human resources strategies, creating risk management programs, developing a business recovery strategy, launching a corporate social responsibility program, leveraging brands, media-based attractions, and destination marketing.
IAAPA President and CEO Paul Noland was pleased with AAE 2015: “As we move Asian Attractions Expo to different cities around Asia, we appreciate the unique dynamics of each location. The successful show here in Hong Kong illustrates the strength of the industry throughout the entire Asia-Pacific region.”
”This is an amazing industry and it has been great to see operators and suppliers from around the world gather here in Hong Kong,” said IAAPA Vice President, Asia-Pacific Operations, June Ko. “I’ve been particularly impressed by the caliber of the education programs and the popularity of the special events. Clearly, there is a thirst for more industry knowledge and everyone enjoys connecting with their peers and colleagues from throughout the Asia-Pacific region and from around the globe.”
Asian Attractions Expo 2015 by the Numbers
- 353 companies from 40 countries displayed new and innovative products across 9,432 net square meters of space, the most expansive exhibition floor in the Expo’s history.
- 6,100 qualified buyers from 74 nations met with industry suppliers, attended education sessions, and participated in networking events to find new ideas and learn about important trends in the industry.
- Attendance for the education conference was approximately 1,500, including 60 registrants for the IAAPA Institute for Attractions Managers; more than 130 attendees at the IAAPA Safety Institute; and 70 participants in the Young Professionals Forum at Ocean Park.
- 380 people attended the Leadership Breakfast featuring a keynote address by Jim Reid-Anderson, chairman, president, and chief executive officer of Six Flags Entertainment Corporation.
- 90 people participated in a facility tour to Ocean Park Hong Kong.
- Approximately 650 people participated in the Opening Night Event at Hong Kong Disneyland.
- 52 people registered for the Post-Expo Tour to Chimelong Ocean Kingdom on nearby Hengquin Island.
Greg Hale, Second Vice Chair on the IAAPA Board of Directors, and Vice President and Chief Safety Officer of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, US, praised the event and how it has grown substantially over the years: “It’s been incredible. Everything from the hotel to the convention center floor, all the events, all the quality education put together—it’s gone to a level that’s world-class. It was a very small Asia show for many years and it’s an absolute international, world-class show now.”
The Platinum Sponsors for Asian Attractions Expo 2015 were Chimelong Group and Wanda Group. FUNA a Wärtsilä company, Galasys, Golden Horse Technology Entertainment Corp. Ltd., JRA, Mack Rides, Pictureworks, Rhetroactive Design, The Producers Group, and WhiteWater Waterparks and Attractions were Gold Sponsors, while Kraftwerk Living Technologies was a Silver Sponsor. InvestHK and MEHK were supporting organizations.
Asian Attractions Expo 2016 will be held at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre, 13-16 June, and advance exhibit sales are strong. Exhibitor information on the 2016 event is available on the IAAPA website, www.IAAPA.org. More detailed information on AAE 2016 will be available in late 2015.
