The 2023 TEA/AECOM Theme Index has once again confirmed Disney Experiences as the global leader in theme park attendance, maintaining its position at the pinnacle of the industry. However, the latest data also reveals a significant shift in the landscape, with Chinese operators, particularly the Fantawild Group, showing remarkable growth and emerging as formidable contenders in the global market.
The index is an annual report produced by the Themed Entertainment Association and infrastructure consultancy AECOM, providing an authoritative analysis of trends in the theme park industry. The 2023 edition highlights a strong recovery across the sector, with the top 25 theme parks worldwide recording a collective attendance increase of 23% compared to 2022. This surge, while impressive, reflects a relative bounce-back from the pandemic-driven closures of previous years. Compared to 2019, the industry has nearly returned to its pre-pandemic strength, underscoring the global resilience and enduring appeal of theme parks.
Disney Experiences continues to dominate the market, with 142 million admissions in 2023, representing a 23% year-over-year increase. This figure cements Disney’s position as the world’s most popular theme park operator, driven by its iconic parks in the United States, Europe, and Asia. Despite challenges such as fluctuating international travel demand, particularly in Orlando, Disney’s ability to draw massive crowds remains unmatched.
However, the most striking development in the 2023 report is the rapid ascent of the Chinese theme park operator Fantawild Group. With an astonishing 111% increase in attendance, Fantawild surged to 85 million admissions, securing the number two spot on the global list. This growth is particularly noteworthy given the challenging operating environment in China during the pandemic, where parks faced stringent restrictions well into 2022.
Fantawild’s success can be attributed to its aggressive expansion strategy, which opened ten new venues between 2020 and 2023. The group’s “asset light” model, which involves partnerships with government entities that fund the construction of new parks while Fantawild focuses on operations, has proven highly effective. This approach has allowed the company to scale rapidly and efficiently, positioning it as a major global theme park industry player. The TEA/AECOM Index suggests that further growth from Fantawild is anticipated in the coming years, potentially narrowing the gap with Disney even further.
Other notable performers in the 2023 Index include Merlin Entertainments Group, which reported a 16% increase to 62 million admissions, and Universal Destinations & Experiences, with an 18% rise to 60 million admissions. These operators, along with Chimelong Group, which saw an impressive 148% growth to 36 million admissions, highlight the overall health and dynamism of the global theme park industry.
The resurgence of theme park attendance, particularly in China, reflects broader trends in the global economy as regions emerge from the pandemic at varying paces. In China, lifting restrictions has unleashed pent-up demand, driving significant year-over-year gains. In contrast, growth in the Americas has been more modest, with a 3% increase, reflecting softer international travel to major destinations like Orlando. Europe, meanwhile, has seen steady growth of 5%, bolstered by investments in expansive resort offerings.
As the global theme park industry continues to evolve, the competition between established giants like Disney and emerging powerhouses like Fantawild will likely intensify. Disney’s unparalleled brand recognition and extensive portfolio give it a substantial advantage, but the rapid growth of Chinese operators signals a shift in the industry’s centre of gravity.
For industry professionals and stakeholders, the index provides valuable insights into the global theme park market’s current state and future direction. As the industry moves forward, monitoring the rising influence of Chinese operators and the strategic responses from established players like Disney will be crucial in understanding the competitive dynamics shaping this vibrant sector.
