IAAPA’s Asian Attractions Expo 2014 Scores 67 Percent Increase in Registered Attendees
June 23, 2014
Preliminary estimates indicate a record-breaking 9,000 industry professionals participated in Asian Attractions Expo 2014, an international conference and exhibition for the attractions industry in the Asia-Pacific region.
Asian Attractions Expo, which is produced by the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA), took place at the June 18-20 at the China National Convention Center.
The estimated total number of registered participants represents an increase of more than 67percent, compared with the 2013 Expo in Singapore.
That number includes more than 6,500 buyers, an increase of 80 percent compared with 2013. The buyers are owners, executives, managers, and leaders from theme parks, water parks, family entertainment centers, zoos, aquariums, museums, science centers, resorts, and real estate development companies from more than 70 nations and regions around the globe.
The sold-out exhibition floor featured new products and services from 325 companies, representing 33 countries and regions. The exhibits covered approximately 9,100 net square meters of space, which was an increase of more than 30 percent , compared with the 2013 Expo.
Total attendance at the Expo education programs, seminars, institutes, tours and networking events exceeded 2,500.
“Business is booming in Asia,” said IAAPA President and CEO Paul Noland. “The Expo was packed with executives and decision makers developing brand new parks and attractions in record numbers, along with leaders of well-established parks looking for the next big idea to drive their businesses to new heights.”
Commenting on the education program, IAAPA Vice President of Asia-Pacific Andrew Lee said, “The education conference is always an important reason many people participate in Asian Attractions Expo. As the industry grows in the region, so does demand for attractions industry-focused professional development. IAAPA helps fulfill that need through the AAE education conference and by producing other learning opportunities around Asia throughout the year.”
Asian Attractions Expo 2014: By the Numbers
· 325 companies from 33 countries and regions displayed new and innovative products on 9,100 net square meters of space, the largest exhibition floor in the Expo’s history.
· 6,500 qualified buyers met with industry suppliers, attended education sessions, and participated in networking events to discover new ideas and learn about the important trends in the industry.
· Attendance at the education conference seminars was approximately 1,200. The IAAPA Institute for Attractions Managers sold out at 85, and more than 180 people participated in the IAAPA Safety Institute.
· More than 300 people attended the Leadership Breakfast featuring a keynote address from Bill Ernest, president and managing director of Asia for Walt Disney Parks and Resorts.
· 285 people participated in tours of Forbidden City, Happy Valley Beijing, and the Great Wall of China.
· Approximately 400 people attended the Opening Ceremony where officials addressed the growth of both the industry and the Expo.
· More than 400 people made new business connections and exchanged information on industry trends and hot topics during the Opening Reception at the China National Convention Center.
Asian Attractions Expo 2015 will be held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre June 16-19.
Partner Voices
MGM Resorts is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse culture, not just among employees and guests but also within its supply chain. The company prioritizes procuring goods and services from businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, people with disabilities, LGBTQ individuals and those facing economic disadvantages. This commitment is integral to MGM Resorts' global procurement strategy.
Through its voluntary supplier diversity program, MGM Resorts actively identifies and connects certified diverse-owned suppliers to opportunities within its supply chain. The company is on track to spend at least 15% of its biddable procurement with diverse-owned businesses by 2025, demonstrating that supplier diversity is not only a social responsibility but also a strategic business imperative.
Supplier diversity isn’t just the right thing to do – it’s good for business. A diverse supply chain allows access to a broader range of perspectives and experience, helping to drive innovation, entrepreneurship and resilience, while strengthening communities. At MGM Resorts, engaging diverse suppliers ensures best-in-class experiences for guests and clients. Supplier diversity ensures a more resilient supply chain while supporting economic development in the communities in which it operates.
The impact of MGM Resorts' supplier diversity initiatives is significant. In 2023, these efforts supported over 3,500 jobs across more than 30 states, contributed over $214 million in income for diverse-owned businesses and generated more than $62 million in tax revenue. The story extends beyond the numbers – it reflects the tangible benefits brought to small and diverse-owned businesses, fostering economic empowerment in their communities.
MGM Resorts also supports the development and business skills of diverse-owned businesses through investment, mentorship and education. Through the MGM Resorts Supplier Diversity Mentorship Program, the company identifies, mentors and develops diverse-owned businesses to fill its future pipeline, while providing businesses with tools and resources to empower and uplift. Since 2017, the program has successfully graduated 105 diverse-owned businesses and is on track to achieve its goal of 150 graduates by 2025.
MGM Resorts’ commitment to supplier diversity not only enhances its business operations but also plays a crucial role in uplifting communities and fostering economic development. This approach reinforces the idea that diversity is a powerful driver of innovation and resilience, benefiting both the company and the wider community.
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