International themed attraction design company, Katapult, have published their latest insights report forecasting the top industry trends for 2023. The report was launched alongside the IAAPA EMEA team as part of their educational webinar series.
Top 2023 trends
Conscious consumers
80% of shoppers worldwide are now doing more research, compared to 12 months ago. Not only are consumers looking for value for money from their purchases, they are also looking to buy from companies with the same values as them – sustainability and the protection of natural resources being one example.
Authentic, untouched experiences
Consumers are looking beyond the ‘typical’ holiday destinations in an attempt to visit somewhere untouched by commercialisation and other tourists. The trend, driven by TikTok and Instagram, is seeing unique, cultural towns and villages become popular destinations for 2023. Kalabaka, Bolzano and Pondicherri to name a few.
Cbeebies Land at Alton Towers
Respite zones
20% of the world’s population is classiï¬ed as neurodiverse. Some visitor attractions are already responding to the needs of both children and adults who need calmer spaces in themed environments. This year will see attractions understand both the requirement and beneï¬t to accommodate for a ï¬fth of their annual guests.
Hands-on experimentation
81% of people surveyed will spend more at an experiential retail experience, compared to a traditional store. Guests are wanting to inject more physical experiences into their mainly digital, screen-based world. This means retailtainment will grow, and, indirectly become a competitor to visitor attractions in shopping centres and malls.
Download the full report
The full Visitor Attractions Trends Report 2023 is available to download for free on the Katapult website, and features an exclusive recording of the webinar featuring Katapult’s Insights Lead, Robbie Jones.
Speaking on the launch of the report, Robbie said, “With so much uncertainty in the world for both guests and visitor attractions, we understand the importance of clear and concise insights to make better commercial and operational decisions. This report provides a future look at the next 12 months, helping visitor attractions plan ahead.”
The report also includes trends on gaming IPs, the global economy, new consumer behaviours and the impacts of technology in theme parks, family entertainment centres, museums and other visitor attractions.
Words and imagery supplied by Katapult
More about Katapult’s top 2023 trends can be found here.
