IAAPA, the global association for the attractions industry, heads to New Orleans, Louisiana, Jan. 19 – 21 for its first summit of the year. IAAPA FEC Summit is the association’s annual event where family entertainment center (FEC) and location-based entertainment (LBE) operators come together to learn, network, exchange best practices, and partake in exclusive EDUTours designed for the FEC/LBE sector.
The event will feature keynote speaker Gerry O’Brion, founder of What Big Brands Know® and creator of The Power of BECAUSE. O’Brion will share his proven framework to help businesses stand out in competitive markets by understanding the factors that influence customer decision-making. This session will have an increased focus on actionable strategies for staying unique and building a brand that resonates with customers.
Additional panelists include Kyle Allison, owner of Altitude 1291; Erin Davis, director of operations at Big Air Franchising; and Kim Valadez, owner of Conroe’s Incredible Pizza Company. Together, they will lead a discussion on enhancing the guest experience and developing marketing strategies to successfully compete with larger companies targeting the same audience.
Other educational sessions will cover topics on how to curate a profitable FEC, attract diverse age groups, drive repeat visits, and adopting a disciplined leadership approach. Jeremy Hoyum, owner of Makutu’s Island and an experienced business coach, will lead the session on leadership strategies for operational excellence.
The education will continue off-site as attendees embark on exclusively guided EDUTours to some of New Orleans’ most innovative FECs. The first stop is to NOLA Motorsports Park, a premier motorsports venue with a 30-arce karting facility, entertainment and a soon-to-come mini golf experience.
The learning will then lead participants to the 300,000-square-foot attraction facility Mardi Gras World. This will be an opportunity to see where the iconic Mardi Gras floats are designed and stored. The unique attraction also serves as a premier event destination, hosting corporate events, private parties, and festivals in its one-of-a-kind venue. IAAPA will then host the summit’s final EDUTour at Game On Social Hub, a family-owned entertainment center known for its state-of-the-art laser tag arenas, bowling, awe throwing, and high-tech features.
