IAAPA Attractions Expo Boasts Largest Showfloor in Four Years
November 27, 2012
People just want to have fun, and that was apparent with the recent success of the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions trade show – IAAPA Attractions Expo 2012 – held Nov. 12-16 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando.
The show drew 26,500 attendees, which included an increased number of buyers, 15,800, an expansive trade show floor – the largest in four years - and largest outdoor space in 10 years, as well as a 14-percent increase in education attendance.
“IAAPA Attractions Expo 2012 is the one time of year when the amusement park and attractions family gathers to conduct the business of fun and this year was a homerun for the industry,” said IAAPA President and CEO Chip Cleary.
He added, “The dynamic show floor was filled with innovative products, comprehensive education sessions were filled to capacity, and countless business connections were established throughout the week.”
The five-day show is the world’s largest conference and trade show for the $24 billion worldwide attractions industry and serves as the global marketplace for the industry, according to association officials.
Amusement park and attractions industry professionals from 102 nations gathered in Orlando to learn, discuss the current trends and hot topics, test the latest innovations, sample new food and beverage creations and develop new experiences for the future.
Here is IAAPA Attractions Expo 2012 by the Numbers:
1,167 companies displayed innovative new products and services on 494,770 net square feet of trade show floor space, including an outdoor exhibit area measuring 57,150 net sq. ft., the largest at the Expo in almost a decade.
15,800 total qualified buyers, including executives from amusement parks, water parks, family entertainment centers (FECs), zoos, aquariums, museums, science centers, resorts and roadside attractions from around the world participated.
9,100 people participated in 115 education programs, which included multiple-day Institutes, behind-the-scenes tours, panel and roundtable discussions and half-day symposiums.
More than 1,800 people attended the Kickoff Event, for an update on IAAPA’s accomplishments; to see the exciting new attractions introduced around the world in 2012; and to preview new developments for 2013.
1,200 participants met, socialized, and shared ideas at the Opening Reception.
450 industry leaders enjoyed the keynote address by Jim Reid-Anderson, president, CEO and chairman of Six Flags Entertainment Corporation.
1,785 people enjoyed “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem,” “The Simpsons Ride,” “Men in Black Alien Attack,” “Shrek 4-D,” and “Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit”duringIAAPA Celebrates at Universal Studios Florida.
350 young professionals attended a reception at Fat Fish Blue Restaurant.
$94,000 was raised for Give Kids The World, the Kissimmee, Fla., a resort for children with life-threatening illnesses with a golf tournament, motorcycle ride, fun run and walk and a chance-to-win.
The show had an estimated $47.7 million economic impact on the Orlando area, according to association officials, and will return to the Orange County CC Nov. 18-22.
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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