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Posted in Categories:Theme Park Design
By Mason Schmitz, Director P+A Projects
Organized by the China Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (CAAPA), the China Attraction Expo (CAE) took place 1-3 April in Beijing, P.R.C. Over 40,000 visitors came to explore and interact with over 700 exhibitors representing 14 countries. This well-known international amusement and attractions exhibition is drawing more and more visitors each year, especially due to the increasing opportunities in China and all over Asia.
P+A Projects attended to meet with potential partners, see what new technologies are being featured, and to get a sense for the market in China. With a recent entity created in Beijing, expansion into the Chinese market is an important focus for our business.
Like many attractions expos, the vibrancy and excitement was evident as soon as we walked through the door. Inside, many visitors were quick to exchange brochures, name cards, and of course, WeChat credentials. Every twist and turn through the halls emerged some new VR simulation, a video game, a robotic arm, or sculptures representing Chinese culture. Every exhibitor seemed to be competing hard to earn their presence. China’s audience seems to be focused on VR and gaming, as we noticed an entire area dedicated to this. It was interesting to see how they took this technology and applied it to create new experiences.
Prior to the expo, CAE held the China Culture Tourism Industry Development Conference on 30-31 March, to present the latest trends in the market, recognize award recipients, and educate the audience. The theme was “New Start, New Thoughts, and New Glory”. The conference explored new ideas of development trends for the industry through presentations of the world’s leaders from attraction spots, commercial real estate, theme parks, indoor parks, pastoral complexes, water parks, zoos, folk customs, museums and related industries.
The existing and potential growth was evident throughout the presentations. In fact, a presentation by Mr. Paul Osterhout, the Executive VP of Century Culture, noted that the total attendance of China Theme Parks was 190 million in 2018, and expected to be 230 million by 2020. These are promising numbers for investors and the industry.
Following this trade show and conference, CAAPA will hold it’s next CAE in Shanghai this 23-25 October. In addition, IAAPA will bring its Asia Attractions Expo to Shanghai this 11-14 June. P+A Projects plans to keep up with the industry trends, and to develop relationships, by continuing to attend events like this.
