The global theme park industry

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to analyze the dimensions and practices that have shaped the present global theme park industry. The reader is first introduced to the characteristics of the global theme park industry. Following a historical review of the evolution of theme parks, the paper reports on the scope of the global theme park industry, according to major geographical regions. The overview continues with an explanation of how themes are created and communicated to guests and finally, addresses the impact of theme parks on the economic sustainability of destinations. Design/methodology/approach - The paper provides an overview and historical examination of key concepts and phenomena. The paper is more descriptive than analytical. Findings - The paper concludes that continuous growth of the global theme park industry will be influenced by the quality and amount of marketing and advertising campaigns, development of new products and guest experiences, as well as external variables that the parks have no control over like competitors' strategies, weather, economic conditions, gasoline prices, government regulations, and so on. Research limitations/implications - The paper reports on several secondary research, scholarly as well as industry and government publications. Some of the original research quoted is conducted by the author. Practical implications - The theme park industry has generated a wide circle of social, economic, and political influences ranging from town planning, historic preservation, building architecture, shopping mall design, and landscaping. Its impact extends further to video and computer-assisted education, home and office design, exhibit design, and crowd management. Originality/value - The paper provides a general overview of the theme park and attraction industry.