IAAPA EMEA Spring Summit 2022 Presents New Learning Opportunities in Rome

Rome, known for its famous landmarks and vibrant attractions, will be the site for this year’s IAAPA EMEA Spring Summit, May 11-13. Hosted by IAAPA Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA), this three-day event will include a panel, keynote presentations, and time for networking, as well as opportunities to hear from leaders, learn about timely topics, and gain inspiration to move attractions businesses forward. Funworld spoke with Peter van der Schans, vice president and executive director of IAAPA EMEA, to get details on the upcoming event. 

Funworld: What will the IAAPA EMEA Spring Summit entail?
Peter van der Schans: In a few weeks, leisure industry professionals will be gathering at the IAAPA EMEA Spring Summit in Rome, Italy. We have organized opportunities for learning and networking, as well as three tours of local attractions—Cinecittà World, MagicLand, and Zoomarine. We think that it will be an insightful journey, filled with historical sights and predictions for the future.

FW: What do you mean by “historical sights and predictions for the future”?  
PS: The summit will offer attendees a chance to visit Villa Torlonia, a centuries-old home converted into a museum, where guests will get the chance to be transported back through time by viewing these historical treasures of Italy. 
But, at the same time, throughout the rest of the event, our attendees will be looking into the future, as well, by gaining inspiration from industry experts and presentations on new ideas, trends, models, and ways of thinking.

FW: What are some examples of topics that will be explored?
PS: Leaders will be presenting on various topics, such as the current state and outlook of the leisure industry, different aspects of sustainability, and ecological and social interactions with stakeholders, including younger generations. They will also speak on how to create new experiences for guests and the hybridisation of attractions—such as phygital approaches, the use digital experiences to connect with guests—and how to monetise on expansions with a case study of “retailtainment.”

FW: Who will be present to share knowledge and inspire attendees?
PS: We’re excited to share that a handful of local park representatives will be speaking. Among them will be Stefano Cigarini, CEO, Cinecittà World; Dr. Renato Lenzi, chief operational officer, The Dolphin Company; and Guido Zucchi, CEO, MagicLand. 

The panel discussion will include Massimiliano Freddi, who is CEO of Wonderwood, chairman of the IAAPA EMEA Education Subcommittee, and a member of the IAAPA Board of Directors; Filip De Witte an industry expert with knowledge on the European market from Familypark in Austria, owned by Compagnie des Alpes; and Jürgen Gevers, managing director from Der Verband Deutscher Freizeitparks und Freizeitunternehmen (VDFU). 

Stephanie Dahl from Karls Tourismus GmbH will also deliver a keynote. 

The summit will begin with a welcome reception and lunch buffet for networking, before transitioning into the myriad activities and educational opportunities offered by the IAAPA EMEA team. This will be an excellent opportunity for attendees to connect, as well as gain new insights into sustainability practices, marketing strategies, experiential retail offerings, and the future of the industry. Click here to learn more about IAAPA EMEA Spring Summit 2022 and to register.