The global theme park industry is back in full swing, according to the latest TEA/AECOM Theme Index. The report reveals a 23% increase in attendance worldwide in 2023, marking a strong recovery from pandemic-related closures in 2022. While Disney Experiences continues to reign supreme as the top operator with 142 million visitors, a new force is shaking up the industry.
China’s Fantawild Group has experienced a meteoric rise, securing the No. 2 spot with an astonishing 111% increase in admissions, reaching 85 million visitors. This surge is primarily attributed to the lifting of Covid-19 restrictions in China, which had heavily impacted the country’s theme parks in 2022. Fantawild’s aggressive expansion strategy, including the addition of 10 new venues between 2020 and 2023, has propelled the company into a major player on the global stage. Their “asset light” model, which relies on government funding for new park construction while Fantawild manages operations, is poised for even further growth.
While the Americas saw a modest 3% increase in attendance and European parks enjoyed a 5% rise driven by investments in resort offerings, China’s theme park resurgence is undeniably the story of the year. Other notable performers include Merlin Entertainments Group, which saw a 16% increase to 62 million admissions, and Universal Destinations & Experiences, up 18% to 60 million admissions.
The global theme park industry is clearly back in business, with Chinese parks taking the lead in the recovery. The future looks bright for this sector, with continued investment and expansion expected to drive further growth in the years to come.
