The attractions industry is rapidly growing in the Asia-Pacific region, with large new resorts, theme parks, waterparks and other attractions in development. And as the industry grows, Asian Attractions Expo grows with it. This year’s event, held at the China National Convention Center in Beijing, China, 17-20 June, will be the largest yet, with 3,500 buyers from 60 countries and 275 companies displaying products and services for the amusement and theme park industry.

Asian Attractions Expo 2014, produced by the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions, (IAAPA) will also offer attendees five days of education sessions in both English and Mandarin Chinese. The sessions include:-

What’s new in Asia:
A panel of industry experts, including Tom Mehrmann, CEO of Ocean Park Hong Kong, will discuss the new parks and attractions, rides and exhibits opening in the Asia-Pacific region.

Keeping your guests happy while keeping your employees engaged:
Learn training and motivation strategies from Ocean Park Hong Kong officials to keep employees engaged and happy.

Waterpark trends and innovation:
Franceen Gonzales, vice president of waterpark business development for WhiteWater West (see AM Q1 14 for Gonzales’ article on waterpark trends) and Wuthichai Luangamornlert, managing director of Siam Park City in Bangkok, will provide insights into new trends and innovations within waterparks.

Entertaining your guests:
Mike Davies from Universal Studios Japan and David Lightbody from Hong Kong Disneyland will give advice on entertaining stage productions, shows and atmosphere entertainment.

Maximising your retail and F&B revenues: Industry experts from Hong Kong Disneyland and Ngong Ping 360 in Singapore will advise how displays, menu selection and marketing increase revenue from retail, food and beverage.

Travelling exhibits:
Heather Farnworth from the Ontario Science Centre and Ashley Larose from Science North in Canada will show how museums use travelling exhibits to drive attendance to museums.

Keynote address:
Bill Ernest, president and managing director of Asia for Walt Disney Parks and Resorts will be the keynote speaker at the Leadership Breakfast. He’ll discuss the industry in Asia and share his insight into Disney’s expansion in the region.

Safety:
In-depth learning related to safety and attractions management for seasoned attractions industry professionals.

Visitors will also get the opportunity to have guided tours at Beijing’s premier attractions – Happy Valley theme park, The Great Wall of China and The Forbidden City.