IAAPA, the global association for the attractions industry, will host a major sector event in California, US next month.
Speakers for this event include The League of Extraordinary Dining CEO & founder George Walker; ShiftForward Consulting CEO and army veteran Cherrie Davis; and Five Star Parks & Attractions SVP of Sales & Marketing, Troy Sacco.
Speaking on “Authentic Reality”, Walker will explore with participants how the industry has changed from a service economy to an experience economy and how the popularity of virtual reality is giving way to a preference for what is referred to as Authentic Reality in this presentation.
He will examine current trends to help provide context and hints that look at this “next reality” and how technology enhances the visitor experience rather than drives it, drawing on his personal experience as a creative director, writer, and industry thinker.
The League of Extraordinary Dining is a new business that will combine theme design with experiential dining for the creation, construction, and operation of several distinctive venues across the state of Florida and further afield. It was recently announced by Walker and his fellow founders David Perry and Emad Shahid.
Leadership and personalities
The keynote address by Davis, whose session is named “YOUR MOVE! COURAGEOUS LEADERS THINK, CREATE, REPEAT,” will enhance leaders’ capacity to flourish and inspire in a setting that is more connected and competitive than ever.
Sacco will discuss the significance of employing particular tools along with the knowledge that can be applied to hire better cultural fits, match up leader and colleague personalities, and use his 5 Easy & Effective Principles of Behavioral Management.
The North America Trade Summit, which will take place from 20 to 23 March at the Hyatt Regency La Jolla at Aventine, will feature educational guided tours of facilities as well as the conference led by international experts who will motivate attendees to expand their businesses to new heights.

Ready to inspire
Additional programme highlights include unique access for attendees exclusively to the USS Midway Museum, the San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld San Diego, and the Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography.
“The first-ever IAAPA North America Trade Summit is sure to inspire all who attend,” said Michael Shelton, vice president and executive director of IAAPA North America. “It is a rare opportunity to learn from industry leaders, connect with attraction suppliers and visit top attractions in the San Diego area for a behind-the-scenes look at how other members are adapting to our ever-changing landscape.”
More information about event pricing and accommodation can be found on the IAAPA website.
IAAPA will also hold an all-new trade summit in Saudi Arabia next month, following its successful summit in Dubai last year.