IAAPA Attractions Expo hits Orlando

The International Associations of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) swings into Orlando this week for its annual Attractions Expo. Industry leaders, companies and hangers on swarm over the Orange County Convention Center for a week trying out all the new things the industry has to offer. It’s also a great place to pick up scents and rumors for what’s coming down the line technology wise.

This year the main story is the same unavoidable story that’s affecting companies and families all over the world – the economy. A few parks did not survive last year (Hard Rock Park, for one) and even more look to fall to the side of the road this year. So everyone is a bit nervous. When I hit the exhibit floor this year, I’m curious to see how big a contraction the industry has already experienced.

I’d invite everyone down, but there is no public day this year. Next year the Expo will be in Las Vegas, and I’ll be looking for a correspondent. <grin>

That’s it for now. I’ll be back later with some stories on what’s happening at IAAPA. If you’re at the show keep an eye out.