IAAPA 2001: Orlando Show and Convention Third Largest Ever

Orlando, FL – IAAPA Orlando 2001, the 83rd Annual convention and tradeshow of the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA), was attended by nearly 29,000, bringing to close the third largest event ever for the organization.

A total of 28,586 attendees descended upon Orlando to look at the latest and greatest products and services in the amusement industry. The eight-day convention and tradeshow featured exhibits, seminars and special events at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando.

"It's an honor to host the best amusement industry trade show on earth right here in my home state," said outgoing IAAPA Chairman Bill Sims. "The crowds came out, despite the current political and economic climate, because they know the annual IAAPA trade show is a truly 'can't miss' event. We're glad they made IAAPA Orlando 2001 a great show, and we look forward to seeing them back here next year."

IAAPA officials said that buyers came from 82 countries to view products and services of 1,265 exhibitors who set-up shop on the more than half-a-million square feet of floorspace IAAPA used at the convention center.

According to IAAPA officials this years exhibitors seemed equally excited and satisfied with the show.

"Traditionally, IAAPA is a show where you spend brief moments with potential clients. The attendees this year were educated and informed, and we are excited by the business we generated throughout the week," stated Terry Reeves of Dippin' Dots.

"This is the first time we have exhibited at IAAPA, and we are thoroughly pleased with the traffic and the quality of the leads we made this week," exclaimed Bettina Buckley of Wow! Works. "We will definitely return next year."

"Despite everything that happened in September, we are very satisfied with the customers we met," commented Alberto Zamperla of Zamperla Rides. "Holding the IAAPA show in Orlando is perfect! The convention center made move-in easy, and we are looking forward to returning for the next three years."

IAAPA attendees had plenty of options to choose from during the eight-day event. There were nearly 70 educational sessions, including IAAPA's Attractions Management School and facility tours of Universal Orlando, SeaWorld Florida, and Wet 'n Wild. All of the sessions were well attended according to IAAPA officials.

Thursday's Islands of Adventure evening party was popular with IAAPA attendees. Nearly 3,900 attended the social event that included exclusive access to the rides and attractions at the Universal Orlando theme park, plus food and drinks.