IAAPA opens new global headquarters in Orlando

IAAPA, the world's largest trade association for the attractions industry, has officially opened the doors of its new 2,040 metre² global headquarters in the US state of Florida.

Located in the heart of Florida’s theme park industry in the city of Orlando, the custom-built headquarters is uniquely designed to celebrate and support IAAPA members from around the world.

David Rosenberg, 2019 Chairman of the IAAPA Board of Directors and Vice President of Monterey Bay Aquarium, explained "we are thrilled to begin this next chapter of IAAPA's history with the completion of this beautiful new building.

"Orlando is the heart of the attractions industry, and the perfect location for IAAPA. The headquarters will serve as the place for industry professionals to come together, to work, and to collaborate. It is also perfectly positioned to support the association's global operations."

Located on seven acres near the headwaters of the Florida Everglades, the new office was designed to reflect the diversity of the attractions industry. The building's exterior features a unique wave pattern, representing the dynamic attractions industry. Inside, dramatic artistic elements include varying ceiling heights and a colourful mural.

Built for IAAPA's members, the building features exclusive meeting rooms, special event space and workstations. The spacious patio features an outdoor kitchen and ample seating overlooking the natural landscape.

Hal McEvoy, IAAPA President and Chief Executive, added “we are incredibly proud to officially call Orlando home and welcome members from all over the world.

"We look forward to engaging and collaborating with members when they are in town and continuing to serve the global attractions industry. This building is the result of three years of hard work and teamwork with our members and many community partners and organisations, who came together to create this amazing space."

IAAPA employs 73 people worldwide, with close to 50 team members based in Orlando.

The new building is home to the IAAPA North America regional office as well as the Association's headquarters team.

Locally, IAAPA is most widely recognised for its IAAPA Expo held each November at the Orange County Convention Centre. The annual conference and trade show, currently booked to remain in Orlando through 2030, attracts more than 38,000 attractions industry professionals from 100 countries each year.

IAAPA Expo 2019 is taking place from 18th to 22nd November this year.

Click here for more information on the IAAPA Expo in the Australasian Leisure Management industry Calendar.

Images: Top, from left; Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings with IAAPA's David Rosenberg and Hal McEvoy at the opening of the Association's new global headquarters and (below) the exterior of the new building.