Park People
www.parkworld-online.com
Again, our immediate goals are identified by the 2013-2015 Strategic Plan, which maintains our current number of Expos.
Apart from trade shows, what other events and initiatives can we look forward to from IAAPA in 2013? Several great events and programmes are already lined up for 2013, including several IAAPA Safety Institutes. Coming up in the first few months are: the IAAPA Institute for Executive Education, which takes place at the end of January in San Diego; FEC Phoenix, a new event for FEC operators which will be held at the end of February; and the 2013 IAAPA Leadership Conference and Latin America Networking Event in Sao Paolo in March. Members should also keep an eye out for webinars of interest, free to members throughout the year.
What park or attraction has most inspired you during your travels with the association?
I’ve been fortunate in my life and career to travel to parks and attractions all around the world and I am inspired by each place I visit in different ways. The people you meet during these visits are, however, most often what is so especially inspiring. I’ll be candid though – when it comes to a favourite ride or attraction, the Wipe Out giant slide, formally on Morey’s Piers, will always be very special as that’s where “it all began” for the Morey Family.
Most big theme/amusement parks in North America are corporate-owned. How does a family-owned operation like yours remain competitive? Know your customer, make sure you offer a compelling place to visit, show gratitude, and give back. Today, people have many choices as to where and how they spend their money and their leisure time. Great customer service and new experiences are the best way to remain competitive. Also, family-owned businesses are part of the community – at Morey’s Piers we take that role very seriously.
Is there still the same pressure on land values (for condominium development etc) by the ocean? Thankfully, the poor real estate market has dramatically relieved the pressure on land values. In many cases, restrictive zoning is in place to help thwart the conversion of amusement park/attractions to other uses. Zoning is very important to protecting the value and unique culture that seaside amusements facilities contribute to their communities.
What positive signs do you see that the industry in North America and Europe is bouncing back? Parts of Europe had a rainy summer season, yet IAAPA’s Euro Attractions Show in Berlin had the largest pre-registration number to date. That’s encouraging. I do think there is still significant uncertainty about the world economy. If there is a recovery, it is certainly a slow one, but registration for Attractions Expo in Orlando is strong and it will boast nearly 480,000 net square feet of exhibit space, which is more than in 2011. While clearly not immune to recessionary pressures, what’s great about our industry is we continue to offer people an affordable way to escape the day-to-day stresses, and spend quality time with family and friends.
Apart from the obvious Expo events, park visits etc, what’s your personal tip for IAAPA attendees visiting Orlando? Plan ahead as much as you can. There is so much to see and do that
NOVEMBER 2012 43 Morey’s Mariner’s Entry Pier
deciding on site can be overwhelming and you may miss something that would benefit you had you attended. Be relentless about meeting new people. If not involved on an IAAPA committee, inquire about which committee(s) might be the best for you and try to meet the committee chair to express your interest. There is so much to learn through serving on a committee.
moreyspiers.com iaapa.org
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