Indian Association of Amusement Parks and Industries

Indian Association of Amusement Parks and Industries (IAAPI) is an apex body representing the interests of amusement parks, theme parks, water parks and indoor amusement centres in India. IAAPI is a non-government, not-for-profit, industry-led and industry-managed organization, playing a proactive role in the development of this sector. Founded in 1999, IAAPI is India's premier business association having more than 461 members from the private sectors including small and medium enterprises consisting of park operators and equipment manufacturers.[1] IAAPI is recognized and affiliated by various international trade bodies operating in the amusement sector.

Indian Association of Amusement Parks and Industries
AbbreviationIAAPI
Formation1999; 25 years ago (1999)
TypeTrade association
PurposeTo promote safe operations, global development, and commercial success of the amusement parks, attractions industry and indoor amusement centers
HeadquartersMumbai, Maharashtra, India
Coordinates{19.11589490473763,72.85612740916041}
Area served
India
Shrikant Goenka
First Vice Chairman
Ankur Maheshwary
Employees (2021)
6
Websiteiaapi.org

IAAPI represents location-based entertainment facilities, including amusement and theme parks, snow parks, indoor amusement centers, arcades, museums, water parks, aquariums, science centers, zoos, bowling alleys and resorts. It also represents industry equipment manufacturers, distributors, operators, industry suppliers, and service providers. IAAPI has its head office in Mumbai and has four regional chapter and sector relevant committees headed by industry leaders. IAAPI serves as a reference point for Indian amusement sector.

Mission & Objectives edit

The mission of IAAPI is to create a conducive environment for the sustained growth of the amusement industry in India. The association aims to achieve this through:

Advocacy: Representing the interests of its members and the industry at large by engaging with regulatory bodies and government agencies.

Education: Promoting knowledge-sharing and continuous learning through workshops, seminars, and conferences to enhance industry expertise.

Safety Standards: Advocating and upholding the highest safety standards to ensure the well-being of visitors to amusement facilities.

Networking: Providing a platform for industry professionals to network, collaborate, and share insights for mutual benefit.

Membership edit

IAAPI boasts a diverse membership base comprising amusement facility owners, suppliers, manufacturers, and other stakeholders. The association's strength lies in its collective approach to addressing industry challenges and driving positive change.

Rebranding edit

On 19th January 2024, as it celebrated its 25th anniversary, IAAPI underwent a rebranding, unveiling a fresh new logo and color schemes. The focus was on reflecting the industry's evolution and embracing upcoming technologies, all while maintaining the existing ethos.

Events edit

Annual IAAPI Expo: One of the flagship events organized by IAAPI is the annual IAAPI Expo.[2][3] This expo serves as a global stage for industry players, featuring the latest technological advancements, trends, and innovations in the amusement sector. With exhibitors from around the world, the expo facilitates networking opportunities and fosters international collaboration.[4]

Anticipation is building for the IAAPI Expo 2024, slated to be the biggest ever, spanning an expansive 12,000 square meter to be held at Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai. This monumental event promises to showcase the pinnacle of innovation and industry trends. With an increased exhibition space, the expo reflects the dynamic growth and significance of the amusement sector in India. IAAPI Expo 2024 would be held from 27th till 29th February 2024.[5]

IAAPI Amusement Expo 2023 was held from March 1-3, 2023 at Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai. This year the Expo attracted huge foot fall as it is held after a long gap due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Exhibitors from 14 countries participated in the event.[6]

IAC Connect: A significant sub-event within the IAAPI Expo is "IAC Connect," focusing on Indoor Amusement Centers (IAC). This platform brings together operators, manufacturers, and consultants from the indoor amusement sector, fostering innovation and growth.

AMTP (Annual Meeting and Training Program): IAAPI hosts the Annual Meeting and Training Program (AMTP), a key initiative that underscores the association's commitment to education and professional development. This program provides industry professionals with a unique opportunity to gather, share insights, and participate in training sessions. Through AMTP, IAAPI contributes to the continuous enhancement of skills and knowledge within the amusement industry.[7]

Other Events: In addition to the aforementioned initiatives, IAAPI conducts diverse training programs, workshops, and conclaves across different regions of India throughout the year. These events serve as comprehensive guidance, training, and facilitation platforms for its members. Furthermore, IAAPI organizes international training events held outside India, offering members a global perspective and fostering strong bonds among them.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the themed entertainment industry faced significant pressures.[8] IAAPI was among several themed entertainment organizations whose members faced potential billions in losses as a result.[9] The IAAPI 2021 Expo was postponed by a year due to the pandemic.[10][11]

Awards edit

Annually, IAAPI unveils the National Awards for Excellence across diverse categories, fostering and promoting new developments and innovations within the industry. This prestigious event takes place during the IAAPI Amusement Expo, serving as a grand platform to celebrate outstanding achievements within the sector. The National Awards for Excellence is a highly regarded annual initiative organized by IAAPI.[12] [13]

Thriller Magazine Publication edit

IAAPI publishes its magazine, Thriller, the official magazine for members. It also comes with monthly newsletter to keep its membership informed about current and pending federal, state and local amusement-related laws and legislation.[14]

Services edit

IAAPI offers training in every aspect of the amusement-park and attractions industry and provides member facilities with opportunities to educate their personnel with workshops, on-site seminars, videotapes, manuals and webinars. The association promotes amusement park safety standards[15] to its members and regularly does safety conclaves. It also does a yearly offshore training program knows as AMTP.

References edit

  1. ^ "IAAPI- surge amid chaos". moderngroup.in. March 24, 2021.
  2. ^ "From rollercoasters to flying theatres; theme parks go all out to woo Indians". June 3, 2018.
  3. ^ "IAAPI – Tourism Breaking News".
  4. ^ "Indian amusement industry to attract 30 million visitors annually". Hotelier India. February 27, 2020. Retrieved March 3, 2021.
  5. ^ "IAAPI Amusement Expo 2024". February 27, 2024.
  6. ^ "Business Standard News; IAAPI". www.business-standard.com.
  7. ^ https://www.business-standard.com/content/press-releases-ani/annual-meet-training-program-23-igniting-the-spark-of-explosive-growth-123081700757_1.html
  8. ^ "Struggling to survive". businessindia.co.
  9. ^ "Indian amusement industry feels doomed in lockdown". National Herald. April 18, 2020.
  10. ^ "IAAPI Amusement Expo 2021 - Mumbai, India - exhibition". expotobi.com.
  11. ^ "Member Resources and Support | IAAPA". www.iaapa.org.
  12. ^ "IAAPI Awards 2020". modernxd.com. March 3, 2018.
  13. ^ "IAAPI Awards". esselworld.in.
  14. ^ "IAAPI Thriller Magazine". iaapi.org. March 3, 2018.
  15. ^ "TUV India (part of TUV NORD GROUP) at 3rd Safety Conclave organised by Indian Associations of Amusement parks and Industries (IAAPI)". www.tuv-nord.com.