IAAPI gears up for expo

The association gets ready for its 19^th expo in Mumbai that will showcase exhibitors from 20 countries and attract decision-makers from the amusement, hospitality and entertainment industries.

TT Bureau

The Indian Association of Amusement Parks and Industries’ (IAAPI) 19^th Amusement Expo, the biggest B2B exhibition on sourcing for the amusement and theme park industry in South East Asia, will be held from March 6-8, 2019 at Bombay Exhibition Centre, Goregaon (East). The exhibition is supported by Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, under its banner of ‘Incredible India’ and Madhya Pradesh Tourism as partner state.

Speaking about how tour operators can benefit by attending this expo, Pradeep Sharma, President, IAAPI, says, “We recommend tour operators to include at least a day’s visit to an amusement or a theme park while creating itineraries. It is important to propose this because it encourages families with kids and youth who are otherwise glued to gadgets to engage in physical activity through outdoor games, rides and attractions which are educational and fun. Visit to the amusement park also helps foster bonding with families and friends, relieves stress and provides a rush of adrenaline. IAAPI can share a state-wise list of amusement parks which will benefit tour operators when creating travel itineraries.”

Sharma also shares his views on upcoming trends in India, which include virtual reality, trampoline parks, paint ball and PUBG to name a few. “Indoor and outdoor sporting arenas which include actual dedicated play zone areas for football, cricket and golf is witnessing growth along with high-thrill rides. Moreover, highway dhabas and large restaurant chains are investing in indoor amusement centres. The dedicated play zone created for kids helps in generating additional revenue. In metros, sports bars, which offer attractions like bowling alleys and virtual sporting games, are attracting youth in large numbers. This has helped in generating employment as well,” Sharma concludes.

The expo will witness a gathering of over 142 exhibitors from India and 20 other countries, and will be spread across an area of 10,000 square metres. Participating countries include Bulgaria, Canada, China, Dubai, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Italy, Kuwait, Luxembourg, Philippines, Poland, Russia, Spain, Switzerland, Thailand, The Netherlands, Turkey, UK and USA. They will display rides, equipment for amusement parks, theme parks, water parks, adventure parks and indoor amusement centres.

Did You Know?

• The Indian amusement industry is expected to grow at a CAGR of more than 25% with the annual revenue of around `2261 cr ($315 mn) in 2018 and is estimated to grow to `6250 cr ($884 mn) by 2022