It's official: All major 2020 aquatics-related trade shows have converted to virtual formats.
The last to make the announcement: The International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions.
In lieu of the nearly 600,000 square-foot event that takes place every year in Orlando, with full-sized rides and attractions on display, the organization will offer a slate of virtual conference sessions for global attractions industry professionals. The 25 sessions and two keynote addresses, originally planned for the in-person Expo, will take place Nov. 16-18.
The decision came after the organization received input from members, exhibitors and its own leadership team.
"We recognize this year there are many challenges facing our members from around the world,” said Hal McEvoy, president and CEO, IAAPA. “...The continuing barriers to international and domestic travel coupled with the evolving guidance on mass gatherings, and members’ need to focus on their businesses helped lead to this decision. While we are disappointed we are unable to meet in-person this year, we are already looking ahead to IAAPA Expo 2021 in Orlando.”
This will be the organization's fourth virtual conference this year. IAAPA Virtual Expo: Asia took place in July and reported 4,000 participants. IAAPA Virtual Conference: The Americas took place Sept. 2-3, and IAAPA Virtual Conference: EMEA and APAC are scheduled for Sept. 22-24.
IAAPA is finding new ways to help manufacturers and suppliers connect with the customers, he added. Exhibitors who were registered for the 2020 Expo should contact the IAAPA Global Sales Team at [email protected] to discuss next steps.
Next year's event, IAAPA Expo 2021, is scheduled to take place in Orlando Nov. 16-19.
The organization's other 2021 Expos around the world also are planned as scheduled: IAAPA Expo Asia, Macao, China, June 7-10; and, IAAPA Expo Europe 2021, Barcelona, Sept. 28-30.
