Industry: Global Trends, Players, and Networks in the Theme Park Industry

Abstract

The theme park industry is expanding worldwide, merging with other entertainment and attractions firms, and diversifying toward other areas of amusement, leisure, and consumption. In addition to large transmedia corporations with clear global positioning, the theme park industry also comprises a diverse array of regional companies, including independent attractions, family-owned parks, high-tech facilities, cultural/heritage/environmental-based parks, or small entertainment facilities. Moreover, connections between theme park operators and real estate corporations, shopping outlet companies, and other entertainment activities such as zoos, water parks, or corporate centers have been increasing. This chapter seeks to disentangle the theme park industry system, outlining the various types of theme park organizations, the importance of the main park operators and brands in the evolution of the industry, and the role of the many players that participate in the value chain of the theme park experience delivery. Mainstream trends in the current dynamics of the industry concerning sustainability, social responsibility, digital transformation, and safety/security are discussed, as is the role of influential organizations such as the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) or Themed Entertainment Association (TEA) in setting standards for the industry. Finally, the chapter reflects on the impact of COVID-19 on the theme park industry in different local contexts and depending on the type and characteristics of each venue.

This work is contributed by Salvador Anton Clavé, Astrid Böger, Filippo Carlà-Uhink, Thibaut Clément, Florian Freitag, Scott A. Lukas, Sabrina Mittermeier, Céline Molter, Crispin Paine, Ariane Schwarz, Jean-François Staszak, Jan-Erik Steinkrüger, Torsten Widmann. The corresponding author is Salvador Anton Clavé, Departament de Geografia, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Vila-seca, Spain.