IAAPA's (The International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions) first Thai Chair, Wuthichai Luangamornlert, emphasises industry resilience, and highlights adaptation to staff shortages and sustainability efforts
You are the first Thai chairperson since IAAPA’s establishment in 1918. How did it feel when you got elected, and what have you been up to since you first took up this post last year in November 2023?
Being elected as the first Thai and second Asian Chair of IAAPA, a global association with a rich history dating back to 1918, was an incredible honour and source of pride for me.
However, IAAPA’s essence transcends any individual; it is about our collective mission to serve and represent our industry members worldwide.
Since taking up my post in November 2023, our board of directors has been focused on developing a five-year strategic plan aimed at advancing our industry’s key objectives. These include prioritising safety, promoting sustainability, and ensuring that we remain the foremost voice representing our industry globally.
I firmly believe that IAAPA stands as the premier organisation capable of advocating for our industry in the most diverse locations around the world.
I personally find a one year term short, is it enough time for you to do what you set out to do? What legacy would you like to leave behind when your one-year term is up?
I believe that the length of a term is just a number. Those who serve as IAAPA chair have typically been dedicated to this industry for many years through their work, volunteering, and contributions.
While serving a one-year term as Chair is a great honour, the impact of each Chair’s efforts extends far beyond that single year. This process drives IAAPA forward by highlighting the contributions of many unsung heroes working behind the scenes. Recognising and bringing these individuals and their ideas to the forefront is essential. One way to achieve this is by considering them for future Chair positions.
How has the attractions industry evolved since you first started working in it from a young age?
I have been involved in this industry since I was six, which means I’ve seen around 40 years of its evolution. In the beginning, the industry was quite fragmented. Waterparks were just waterparks and theme parks were just theme parks. Today, everything has become a hybrid. New technologies and innovations, like those showcased on our expo floors, allow us to create comprehensive experiences for customers without them needing to visit multiple locations. This blending of experiences is key to providing immensely rewarding experiences for our visitors.
Does the attractions industry also have a shortage of manpower?
Staff shortages are a global concern for our members. However, the hybridisation of industries means that entertainment and attractions are now integrated into various sectors. You can find attraction technologies not only in amusement parks, but also in shopping centres, hotels, and resorts. This crossover allows young professionals from different fields to intersect with our industry, presenting the attractions sector as a dynamic and expansive career path.
What is one piece of advice you would give to younger industry professionals?
Our industry is incredibly exciting, naturally attracting enthusiastic young talent who want to be part of the experiences they enjoyed growing up. At IAAPA, we have our foundation aimed at introducing young people to the industry by providing training and their first opportunities in this vibrant field.
What are some of your members’ main concerns and what do they want IAAPA to do for them?
Sustainability has become a crucial concern for our members, and IAAPA is actively supporting them and driving the industry forward in this area.
Nowadays, parks and attractions must meet stringent sustainability requirements before they can even be approved for construction. In regions like Europe, where regulations are particularly strict, park owners often face challenges in securing financing or knowing where to start. IAAPA can step in to assist our members by educating them on the latest global standards, providing access to available resources, and connecting them with the right experts to achieve both ecological and economic sustainability.
On our tradeshow floors, we showcase innovative ways manufacturers are developing attractions that conserve water and electricity. Additionally, we have a dedicated committee focused on sustainability, which remains a top priority for IAAPA. Through these efforts, we help our members become more sustainable in all aspects of their business, ensuring their success, and contributing to the betterment of our industry.
Why is there a need for IAAPA to exist, and organise such tradeshows globally?
We serve as the central hub where everything comes together. People attend not only to purchase products but also to learn, share, witness innovations, and most importantly, to network. Our three global expos are crucial in this regard, as they bring together major players and suppliers from each region, fostering new partnerships, and unlocking new pathways to success.
What are some of the key highlights from this year’s IAAPA Expo Asia?
Notably, this year marked the return of IAAPA Expo Asia to Thailand after 17 years, underscoring Thailand’s potential as a major attractions destination due to its robust tourism and hospitality industry.
The event saw an impressive increase in media presence and coverage compared to 2023, resulting in greater online views and reach. We were thrilled to welcome 335 more buying companies than last year, representing a 16 per cent increase. This translates to more wallets represented, which likely means greater buying power for our exhibitors. This positive sentiment was echoed across all stakeholders.
Additionally, the expo showcased numerous exciting exhibitor highlights, and offered insightful educational sessions and valuable networking opportunities. The success of IAAPA Expo Asia this year underscores the strength and resilience of the attractions industry, and we look forward to maintaining this positive momentum in the future.
What is IAAPA’s biggest challenge right now?
In 2024, we are navigating through complex challenges. Ongoing conflicts and economic pressures such as inflation, consumer debt, and reduced consumption mark the global landscape. Additionally, severe weather conditions significantly impact our industry.
Despite these obstacles, I want to highlight the remarkable resilience and adaptability of our members worldwide. This perseverance gives me great optimism for our future, showing that our industry is not only surviving but also innovating and evolving amidst these trials. We are witnessing promising growth trends, a resurgence in domestic tourism – especially in China – as well as new consumer preferences that are creating exciting opportunities to engage with visitors in novel ways.
Moving forward, we are committed to embracing these changes, forging strategic partnerships, and prioritising problem-solving. I firmly believe that with our collective resilience and adaptability, we are well-equipped to navigate these challenges and seize the opportunities that lie ahead in 2024 and beyond.
