The Indian Association of Amusement Parks and Industries (IAAPI) unveiled its 15th edition of IAAPI Amusement Expo 2015 on February 11, 2015 at Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai. Supported by the ministry of tourism, Government of India (Incredible India), India’s premier Amusement, Leisure and entertainment trade event, hosted over 100 plus domestic and international exhibitors.
The expo was spread across 6000 sq.mt exhibition floor area and showcased latest innovative rides and equipment for amusement park, theme park, water park, adventure sport and family entertainment centres. Also, the customers were able to experience some of the rides there. Around 45 per cent exhibitors this year were international vendors seeking a platform to engage and network with India’s leading retail, real estate, and hospitality and travel sectors. An award function was also held on the second day of the expo which recognised excellence, innovation and best practice.
The Indian Amusement & Theme Park industry has been growing at a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of more than 17.5 per cent with annual revenue of approximately INR 17 billion and estimated to grow to at least INR 40 billion by 2020. Amusement parks in India attract over 30 million visitors annually. Children and youth visit the park either in school groups or with families and constitute 25 per cent of park visitors. Adults constitute the remaining 75 per cent as they either visit with their families or in corporate groups.
IAAPI works to create and sustain an environment conducive to the development of Amusement sector in India, partnering industry, government, and civil society, through advisory and consultative processes. Keeping the end users in mind, IAAPI works to influence the decision of the policy makers, investors, the society and lead in an ever growing amusement industry in India. Extending its agenda beyond business, IAAPI has been making conscious efforts in channelising the entire industry under one umbrella and focus on promoting tourism, employment generation, safety, national integration and enabling potential investors to invest in this sunrise industry.
Dr. Mahesh Sharma, minister of state (independent charge) of tourism and culture and minister for aviation, Government of India said, “I am glad that IAAPI organised the 15th Expo at Mumbai. The immense growth in amusement industry has played a crucial role in boosting our country’s economy. Amusement parks, theme parks, water parks and family entertainment centers (FEC) play a vital role in promotion of tourism and providing entertainment to both inbound and domestic tourists.”