AM2 8th February 2017 Issue 71

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The news & jobs magazine from Attractions Management

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8 FEBRUARY 2017 ISSUE 71

Tourism shift driving expanding theme park market “The target population in the age A report looking at the future of group of 0-14 is declining,” said an the global themepark market has analyst commenting on the report. predicted annual growth of more “Many theme parks are shifting than 10 per cent through to 2021, their focus toward audience of driven by a shift in consumer taste other age groups to generate more from relaxation to adventure. revenue. Theme parks are creating Covering the market landscape more attractions and rides to target and its growth prospects over a larger audience. For instance, the coming years, the Global children under 15 are not allowed in Amusement Park Market 2017-2021 certain rides in various theme parks. report forecast compound annual “Theme parks are attracting growth rate (CAGR) of 10.16 per adult audience by providing cent during the period 2017-2021. amusement rides such as According to the report by roller coasters, river rapids Research and Markets, with tourism Theme parks are playing an important role in modern day tourism rides, and sky coasters. revenues increasing, governments This shift in the target audience of many countries are coming to the realisation Additionally, the report states that there is a will likely support the growth of the that theme parks play an important role in shift in preference occurring, with individuals market during the forecast period.” attracting tourists, with Dubai’s current park wanting relaxing holidays now turning boom evidence of this emerging trend. instead to adventure sports and tourism. More: http://lei.sr?a=7c6C4_A

SeaWorld’s Doug Stagner named new IAAPA COO and EVP IAAPA has named attractions veteran Doug Stagner as its new COO and executive vice president – a newly created position designed to help the organisation achieve its goals and handle growth and global infrastructure. Stagner, who has been a part of the attractions industry for more than 32 years, started his career in 1984 as a ride operator at SeaWorld San Diego. From there, Stagner worked his way up the SeaWorld ladder, holding a variety of positions including roles in operations, business development, and strategic planning and execution. Most recently as SeaWorld’s vice president of international operations, Stagner was overseeing the company’s expansion into Asia. For IAAPA, Stagner sits on the organisation’s board and is former chair of its education

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committee. In 2013 he was the recipient of the IAAPA Meritorious Service Award. In his new role, Stagner will report to president and CEO Paul Noland, while directly overseeing management of global membership, communications, education, talent and IAAPA’s four regional offices. Additionally, he will play a significant role in IAAPA’s relocation to Orlando later this year. “As IAAPA begins its next chapter, Doug is the right person at the right time,” said Noland. “Doug’s understanding of IAAPA coupled with his previous work overseeing international business development opportunities and day-to-day operation of 12 US domestic parks, uniquely positions him as the person who can help direct it toward its bright future.” Stagner has won IAAPA awards in the past