Press Releases

Worldwide Amusement Industry Gears Up For Next Season with Estimated 30,000 Expected At IAAPA Orlando 2003

The Future of Thrill Seeking, Food and Fun at Members' Fingertips in November

ALEXANDRIA, VA. USA (Sep. 10, 2003) – The International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions ( IAAPA) will host its 85th annual convention and trade show " IAAPA Orlando 2003" in Florida's theme park capital Nov. 17-22 for the $19 billion global amusement industry.

IAAPA Orlando 2003 is where park representatives go to secure the newest and most sophisticated systems for light, sound, ticketing, food, security and excitement for their hometown guests. The largest convention for the worldwide amusement industry, it is customary to see business suit and tennis shoe-clad men and women playing games or checking off their one-stop "shopping lists" of the most innovative ideas and products for 2004.

With more than one million gross square feet of exhibit space in the halls of the Orange County Convention Center - NEW North/South Complex, IAAPA Orlando 2003 will host an estimated 30,000 attendees. More than 1,300 companies will show their wares to owners and operators of amusement parks, waterparks, family entertainment centers, zoos, aquariums and all types of permanently situated leisure and entertainment attractions.

The IAAPA convention is among the few, if any, international trade shows that includes an outdoor Magical Midway, showcasing some of the biggest and most exciting thrill rides in a mini-park of full-size rides for members to try out on-site ( IAAPA Orlando 2003 is not open to the public). IAAPA Orlando 2003 is so big, guests will want to use the new "Personal Planner" developed for the convention's new official website (www.iaapaorlando.com), to get the most out of what is sure to be the best IAAPA show ever.

NEW this year is the DARK ZONE. Join the masters of the Halloween industry as they showcase the latest products and special effects! Meet some of the biggest names in "Haunting," and see why many parks have extended their seasons to include a frightfully good time at Halloween!

IAAPA Orlando 2003 is also a learning laboratory - the place to see, test and experience everything exciting in the world of amusement. Through the popular Attractions Management School, held Nov. 17-19, and more than 50 skill-building seminars, industry staff learn best practices to recruit and retain excellent employees, identify and attract new markets, and apply the latest advances in financial management and safety.

Some of the scheduled sessions include:
- What Would You Do If It Happened To You. Emergencies come in many shapes, sizes and species. How well is your facility prepared to handle the worst - From serious accidents to terrorism, a comprehensive emergency preparedness plan is more important today than ever before.

- FISH! Join renowned performer Carr Hagerman as he explores the FISH! Philosophy and explains how to make your park one of the most enthusiastic, energetic, creative and exciting places to work!

- Recruit Right! Getting and Keeping the Right People. Join Christine Brownie, CN Tower (the world's tallest building), and Tim Ruedy, Warner Brothers Movie World, as they describe different approaches to recruitment and selection of "just the right" employee for the job.

- Access For All. In this interactive session, small groups will be presented with real-life operational challenges involving guests with disabilities.

- Museums: Competition and Renewal. Museums and education-based attractions face tough competitive challenges. Hear how three icons are financing courageous expansions in today's economy.

Networking and idea-sharing opportunities between facility owners, operators and managers will take place during open information exchanges, special receptions and fun-filled events hosted by Florida attractions. Several behind-the-scenes tours are scheduled at top Florida destinations, including: Lunch with the Sharks at SeaWorld Orlando, Universal Studios, Discovery Cove Orlando, and Disney by Design.

IAAPA Orlando 2003 is also the time when the best and brightest in the industry are honored for their hard work. The Hall of Fame Awards, Service Awards, Exhibitor Awards, Brass Ring Awards, Souvenir Awards, Spirit of Excellence Awards, and Big "E"(ntertainment) Awards will all be presented during the week. Other special events include the convention's signature kick-off event, "What's New Theatre," the General Managers and Owners breakfast, and the Thursday Night Social at Universal Studios.

More information about IAAPA Orlando 2003 can be found at www.iaapa.org or the convention website, www.iaapaorlando.com.

NOTE: Amusement Management School programs and some behind-the-scenes tours (subject to the rules of the host facility) are open to the media, assuming there is adequate space available; please indicate your interest in advance to the contact name listed above. Certain special events (again, subject to the rules of the host facility) are open to the media, but do require the purchase of a ticket. Workshops are open to the media at no cost.

# # #

IAAPA is the largest international trade association for permanently situated amusement facilities worldwide. The organization represents over 4,500 facility, supplier, and individual members from more than 90 countries. IAAPA strives to help members improve their efficiency, marketing, safety, and profitability while maintaining the highest possible professional standards in the industry. www.iaapa.org