Supercharge Theme Park Fun With Promo From souvenirs to special mementos, promotional products elevate the theme park experience and inspire future visits. By Audrey Sellers Theme parks are the go-to destinations for funseekers of all ages. Every year, more than 300 million people pour through the gates of America’s theme parks, seeking adventure and a little bit of childhood wonder. Whether it’s gazing at a fairytale castle or watching a parade of beloved characters, the magic never gets old. Globally, the theme park industry is projected to grow nearly 4% annually and reach $114 billion by 2029. Much of this growth comes from more people living near theme parks, along with the power of social media, which keeps theme parks top of mind (and top of feeds). Factor in immersive experiences and new and exciting attractions, and visitors have even more reasons to return. In the United States alone, there are more than 1,200 amusement and theme parks to explore. They range from mega parks like Disney World to regional parks like Six Flags to smaller, familyoriented parks like Oregon’s Enchanted Forest and New Hampshire’s Story Land. Three states account for more than a third of the country’s theme parks, with Florida leading the way at 175 parks, followed by Texas with 135 and California with 100. These parks keep people coming back time after time, not only for the rides and attractions but also for the collectible souvenirs and logoed gifts. A water park-branded beach towel isn’t just a memento but a practical item people can use all summer long. A logoed neck fan isn’t just helpful on a hot day at the park but becomes a tangible reminder of fun times. And a branded fanny pack isn’t just ideal for keeping essentials handy – it’s convenient for everyday use, bringing back memories of a fun-filled day. Promo also helps theme parks turn visitors into brand ambassadors. Nearly 3 in 4 parkgoers say they regularly use their phones during their visit, and 19% say phones improve their experience. By giving promo products that double as photo ops, klyaksun / Paper Trident / raga mara / Shutterstock.com 62 • MAY 2025 • PPAI Must Read |
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