IAAPA Global Board Meeting Summary

In late April, the IAAPA Board of Directors met for their spring 2025 meeting ahead of IAAPA Honors in Rust, Germany. The 22-person board discussed several pertinent issues facing operators, owners, suppliers, manufacturers, consultants, and other professionals working in the global attractions industry.

Below, find a summary of the discussions, concerns, opportunities, and details of new initiatives the organization is committed to exploring on behalf of attractions professionals worldwide.

Vision 2025 Task Force – Shaping the Future

• The board approved the creation of the IAAPA Vision 2035: Future of the Attractions Industry Task Force, chaired by IAAPA Second Vice Chair, Chris Perry.
• This strategic initiative will explore the trends that will influence the future of the industry over the next 10 years and culminate in a published report (Q1 2026) that will be available to the members. The findings will also be used to refine the Association’s strategic priorities.  

Association Growth Strategy 

• The board discussed opportunities to collaborate with other industry associations to support global growth and regional engagement.
• The team is also reviewing IAAPA’s legal structure to support long-term global growth and resilience.
   

2024 Financials – A Strong Year

• The association ended 2024 with a solid financial performance and an unmodified audit opinion.
• No material weaknesses were identified in the 2024 audit, reflecting strong financial stewardship within the Association.

Tariffs – Vigilant and Forward-Focused

• IAAPA is closely monitoring trade tariffs and their implications for all members, sharing updates, and information on this dynamic situation. Additional information is available at the following link: Global Trade and Tariff Updates | Advocacy | IAAPA.org.
• IAAPA Expo 2026 and Beyond – Orange County Convention Center West Hall Expansion 
  Plans are progressing for IAAPA Expo’s 2026 expansion into the Orange County Convention Center’s West Hall.
• The board discussed the importance of making it easy to navigate between halls, balancing education across venues, and strategic booth placement to optimize traffic.
   

Digital Roadmap – Elevating Member Experience

• The new IAAPA.org launched in January has seen significant engagement gains. The upcoming enhancements will include community platforms, improved e-commerce, and better access to education/job resources.
• The initial recommended focus areas for community groups include safety and security, sustainability, advocacy, and students/young professionals.
   

IAAPA Honors – Advancing Recognition Strategy

• The IAAPA Team and the global awards committee will continue to review and refine the program for the future with the board of directors.

Recruiting 2026 Global Board of Directors 

• With nine global board seats opening in 2026, industry leaders are encouraged to participate in the application process. Applications are due June 12. Additional information and the application is available here: iaapa.org/boardofdirectors.
   

Upcoming meeting

• The next IAAPA Global Board of Directors meeting will take place virtually in July.