Top 4 Trends that Break Boundaries and Boost Success
Staying ahead of amusement park and carnival trends can help secure long-term success for your business and enable you to keep providing unforgettable experiences for your guests in this rapidly changing industry.
Our team of carnival and amusement park insurance experts has thoroughly analyzed the industry to identify four key trends for 2024. Armed with this valuable insight, you can make informed decisions that will positively impact the future of your business.
- Going all-in on inclusive environments
Inclusive businesses are more successful, better at expanding into new markets and are more socially responsible than businesses that do not foster an inclusive environment. This is why many amusement parks, carnivals, and family entertainment centers are adding more accessible rides and attractions for people of all backgrounds and capabilities.
Among the biggest trends in accessibility are experiences designed for people with hearing or vision impairments, sensory-friendly days, special events for people with disabilities, and wheelchair-accessible rides. These rides and attractions focus on having fun and making memories, rather than relying on thrills provided by rides like roller coasters.
Another important way amusement parks are promoting diversity and inclusion is by training their staff on these topics. Specialized training helps staff members understand different cultures and perspectives of their guests, while also teaching them how to create a more inclusive environment.
Learn more: The Importance of ADA Compliance
- Providing top-tier safety with elevated security
Amusement parks and carnivals are taking steps to bolster security in response to a surge in crime. These measures include increasing security cameras and security towers, adding security staff and guards, and implementing 24/7 command centers.
It is essential for all levels of the amusement park team to be on board with security measures. This includes leadership, staff, and even ticket sellers. By everyone being aware of security measures and how to respond to incidents, amusement parks can create a safer environment for everyone.
Clear communication and regular training are also key to ensuring that security teams and staff are properly trained in crisis response. This training should cover everything from how to identify and report suspicious activity to how to respond to active shooter situations.
McGowan Allied Specialty Insurance understands the importance of risk mitigation and swift response to incidents. Our carnival and amusement park insurance coverage provides comprehensive protection, giving you peace of mind. Whether it is a slip and fall or something more serious, our team of experts is always available.
Learn more: Reopening & Preparing: Reopening & Preparing: Active Shooter Response
- Using big data to boost revenue
Amusement parks and carnivals are increasingly using data collection to gain valuable insights into guests’ preferences and behaviors, prevent fraud, increase operational efficiency, reduce costs, and boost profits.
For example, Tomorrow Entertainment, a family entertainment center in Asia, used data collection to rebound after the pandemic. The company increased revenue by nearly 20% and cut the time required for financial reconciliation by two-thirds, according to IAAPA (International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions).
Data can be collected in a variety of ways, including ticket sales, guest Wi-Fi usage and loyalty programs. Keep in mind that amusement parks and carnivals need to protect the security of their data. This includes using strong passwords, encrypting data and monitoring for security threats.
Learn more: Harnessing the Power of Technology to Improve Guest Experience
- Managing long-term labor shortages
Labor shortages in the amusement and carnival industry are having a significant impact, leading to longer wait times, higher prices, and a decrease in the quality of service.
The industry relies heavily on the government’s temporary work visa program (H-2B and J-1 visas) to meet staffing needs. However, the pandemic caused a sharp decline in the number of applications to the program, leading the Department of Homeland Security to slash the number of visas issued.
Another major factor contributing to the labor shortage is the rise of inflation. Current wages are not enough to cover the rising cost of groceries, transportation and other necessities.
To address these challenges, many amusement parks and carnivals are holding regular job fairs and offering sign-on bonuses. They are also working to improve wages and benefits in order to attract more employees.
Learn More: Amusement H-2B Visas and Labor Shortage
Secure Your Business’s Future with McGowan Allied Speciality Insurance
At McGowan Allied Specialty Insurance, we understand your unique needs and can customize a carnival or amusement park insurance policy that is perfectly tailored to your business. With more than 40 years of experience, we have been dedicated to providing exceptional insurance coverage for amusement parks, family entertainment centers, carnivals, fairs, festivals and other entertainment venues.
To learn more about how McGowan Allied Specialty Insurance can support and protect your business through these trends, contact our experts online or call 727-547-3023 to receive a personalized quote. Be sure to ask about our IAAPA Elite Insurance Program!
