Considered part of the tourism trio – airline hotel,
product - the amusement, leisure and entertainment
sector plays a principal role in Europe, North
America and Australasia. It is poised to acquire the
same respect in India.
DEMAND :The industry has been making quiet
strides in recent years, as airlines and hotels
received the lion’s share of investment and
attention. This is in due measure to the burgeoning
domestic market with its increase in disposable
income and the need to travel to and experience
places other than the ‘native place’. In 2006, an
estimated 300 million Indians generated Rs. 5,000
crores in turnover, a 25% surge. As the Indian
industry is primarily domestic oriented, a strong
economy will increase footfalls, by a good measure.
INVESTESTMENT :With such a positive response,
the industry is gearing up to cash in. In 2006, an
investment of approximately Rs. 2,800 crores was
announced for large greenfield theme parks. Industry
analysts agree that it is the tip of the iceberg as
investors and operators have been in wait for this
upswing. In 2007-08, substantial capital is expected
to be channelled into renovations, upgrades and
expansions. FIIs and MNCs too have expressed
interest in India’s revitalised amusement, leisure
and entertainment sector. This includes the Walt
Disney conglomerate which is considering its first
Disneyworld here five years hence.
ROLE : The industry’s biggest draw is that it
provides wholesome, constructive recreation,
generally family-centric. In effect, it is a
significant part of the ‘destination product’ so
heavily marketed by the international tourism
sector. The necessity is to actively involve
amusement, leisure and entertainment providers to
enhance the appeal of the destination beyond the
obvious heritage, cultural, beach, hill station,
etc. This realisation is dawning upon hospitality
and tourism.
DIVERSE : As an industry; amusement, leisure
and entertainment is more pervasive than is visible
and realised. From the obvious large scale theme
parks on city outskirts, to mid-small sized parks in
towns and along highways, the industry also includes
water rides on lakes and beaches; kiddie rides in
hotels, resorts and malls; video arcades (Not
gambling games) and the ‘melas’ and ‘fairs’.
STRUCTURE ; As with most Indian industries,
amusement, leisure and entertainment too has both
organised and unorganised sectors; where the latter
has the larger share. Efforts are being made to
consolidate the industry.
IAAPI 2007 : As the only amusement, leisure
and entertainment association in India, IAAPI’s
annual trade show is the best business and
networking opportunity for the industry. In its
seventh edition, the three day conclave (Feb 21-23)
is expected to register its best, with attendance in
the region of 3000 industry associates. The event
has already set a record for the highest number of
exhibitors, 75; from 15 countries (Argentina,
Belgium, Canada, China, Hong Kong, Italy, Japan,
Luxembourg, Singapore, Spain, Switzerland, Taiwan,
Thailand, USA and India).
ABOUT IAAPI : The Indian Association of
Amusement Parks and Industries (IAAPI), established
in 1999 is a non-profitable organization, comprising
of operators, manufacturers, importers, traders,
suppliers, distributors and other related
industrialists from the amusement, leisure and
entertainment industry in India. IAAPI is the only
authentic source of information for the industry in
India.
IAAPI has played a pivotal role in the development
of inbound and domestic tourism and has generated
significant development in this sector. IAAPI’s
existence has been essential to enfold the entire
industry under one umbrella and give it a united
voice. Being a representative body of the industry,
IAAPI provides a suitable platform for its members
to present their perspective.
VISION : Keeping the ultimate users in mind,
IAAPI intends be a body to influence the decision of
policy makers, investors and the fraternity, which
should lead to the growth of the sector.
OBJECTIVES :The association’s prime objective is:
• To promote, encourage, protect, and safeguard the
interests of the sector.
• To promote, encourage, protect and safeguard the
interests of the manufacturers and suppliers of
various infrastructural amenities and facilities
pertaining to the industry.
• To collate information relating to amusement,
leisure and entertainment, and be an authentic
source of information and to advice on the opening,
operating, managing and functioning of the
industry’s operations of various types, styles,
designs and objects.
• To maintain high standards of service to its
members. |
