Green Tagged: Theme Park in 30 (Philip Hernandez)

August 30th Edition - Welcome to the Green Tagged Podcast!

Top Stories
Guggenheim approves plan to become more inclusive and racially diverse following accusations by employees of racism at the museum in New York.

Chessington launches free safari experiences including entry to the theme park.

Singapore’s S.E.A. Aquarium offers dining with underwater views.

Georgia’s Wild Adventures park unveils Pumpkin Spice Festival instead of its “Terror in the Wild” experience, which won’t be happening this Halloween season.

SeaWorld San Diego opens a zoo and dining experience.

Full Show Notes Here:
https://greentaggedshow.com/theme-park-industry-news-green-tagged-aug30/

We divided this week’s news into three piles: the Florida and New York governors’ responses to how themed attractions can move forward during the pandemic, the evolution of IP experiences, and the trend to virtual.

Full show notes here: https://greentaggedshow.com/theme-park-industry-news-green-tagged-sep6/

This week on Green Tagged: ‘Schoolcation’ packages debut at Four Seasons Resort Orlando, Cancellations for Mickey’s Christmas Party and IAAPA Expo, live performances are coming back, and the theme park capital of the world battles public attitude.
Read the Full Show Notes:
https://greentaggedshow.com/theme-park-industry-news-green-tagged-sept13/

This week on Green Tagged: Theme Park in 30 -

Halloween-themed drive-in movies debut at theme parks in the US and UK; Round One is slated to Replace a Sears store in Florida; while droves of escape rooms pivot virtual others reopen in-person; updates from the attractions industry in Singapore, Australia, Japan, and Hong Kong on working towards recovery plans.

Read the Full Show Notes: https://greentaggedshow.com/theme-park-industry-news-green-tagged-sept20/

On this Bonus Green Tagged, everything you need to know about Halloween in 30 minutes:

What 11 drive-in haunted attractions have in common, where they differ, and why it matters; a rundown of what every major US theme park is doing for Halloween; musings on The Haunted Toilet Experience; what hotels, a small town in Maine and, Mars Candy is doing to innovate this season.

Read the show notes: https://greentaggedshow.com/theme-park-industry-news-green-tagged-halloween

This week on Green Tagged:
An update on policies at play in the attractions industry; the latest pandemic proof ideas including flights to nowhere and Driven: A Latinx Artist Celebration; expansions and openings; how attractions in the US and Japan are planning for a longer recovery.
Full show notes: https://greentaggedshow.com/theme-park-industry-news-green-tagged-sept27/

This week on Green Tagged: Florida governor lifts restrictions as Disney lays off workers; the CDC and White House disagree on “no-sail” guidelines; associations worldwide continue to plead for assistance; guests are on-edge and attractions must respond; and pandemic-resistant ideas.

Show notes: https://greentaggedshow.com/theme-park-industry-news-green-tagged-oct3/

This week on Green Tagged: California theme-park reopening redux; discouraging cruise news; USO to invest in affordable housing; “Frozen” sing-a-long returns while movie theatres close; Disneyland opens a popup; Shanghai Disney Resort celebrates Halloween; Silver Dollar City creatively pivots; brands pivot to in-person Halloween experiences; Zipline into Godzilla’s Mouth.

Full Show Notes: https://greentaggedshow.com/theme-park-industry-news-green-tagged-oct11/

This week on Green Tagged:

Big moves at Disney; Eastern State Penitentiary considering discontinuing Terror; INSIDE brings new voyeuristic experience to LA; coworking from a Ferris Wheel at Tokyo’s Yomiuriland; Aquarium Yoga debuts at Hong Kong’s Ocean Park; Knott’s launches Spotify playlist; Airbnb celebrates Halloween.

Full Show Notes: https://greentaggedshow.com/theme-park-industry-news-green-tagged-oct18/

This week on Green Tagged: Attractions weigh in on sustainability; Hong Kong has a new COVID Safe Certification Plan; India Operators Doubt Demand; Disney and Six Flags continue to Rightsize; Hong Kong’s Ocean Park Faces Rebranding Challenge; Both Disney and Universal are testing new hotel models.

Full Show Notes: https://greentaggedshow.com/theme-park-industry-news-green-tagged-oct25/

This week on Green Tagged: Commentary on California's Reopening Guidelines and 10 positive trends to come out of the Pandemic. Full show notes: www.greentaggedshow.com

This week in Green Tagged: We discuss how different countries are recovering their tourism sectors amid the pandemic. The through line is, of course, how well local governments are containing the virus to ease consumer distress. Western countries continue with broad approaches which Eastern countries experiment with targeted approaches. In Europe, attractions are shutting back down. Demand is suffering in the UAE despite attractions remaining open. Indonesia and South Korea are experimenting with more targeted recovery plans. In the US, Universal is down 81% and yet Comcast reaffirms commitment to park development. Six Flags is surveying guests about mandating COVID testing for park entry.
Read full show notes at: www.greentaggedshow.com

This week on Green Tagged: How does a vaccine change planning at your attraction? While Buena Vista Street plans to open on November 19th, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk closed after only one weekend. The Pandemic has inspired a cornucopia of new tech, including AI Bag Scanners, UVC light fixtures, disinfection robots, socially distanced roller coasters, and wearables. Planning for a post pandemic future, MAD System has registered a patent for facial recognition technology they hope will personalize visitor attractions.
Full Show Notes: greentaggedshow.com

This week on Green Tagged we explore trends and new experiences in the theme park and themed entertainment industries. Universal Hollywood launches a drive-in experience; Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser; Own The Park at Great Wolf Lodge; IAAPA went virtual; PortAventura World is carbon neutral; The Hyperloop test was successful; 3 bid opening announcements.
Full show notes: www.greentaggedshow.com

This week on ‘Green Tagged: Theme Park in 30’ we examine the slow US recovery and what some attractions are doing to diversify revenue. Stories: The Malaysian Tourism Ministry reveals recovery plans for pandemic-hit travel sector; Reuters reports US $500B travel spending dive, slow recovery through 2024; Academy Museum of Motion Pictures exceeds pre-opening fundraising goal by leaning mostly on private investors; The Dublin Zoo also leaned on private investors to raise operating capital; California’s theme parks may not open until summer 2021; Kennywood offers annual pass pandemic protection; Wine Bathing in Japan; Blooloop reports How Monterey Bay Aquarium is engaging AND generating revenue with Animal Crossing on Twitch; Imperial War Museum opens online center; Falcon’s Game Suite is the Karaoke Lounge of Gaming; and the International Association of Mixed Reality Sports is here.
Full show notes: www.greentaggedshow.com

This week on ‘Green Tagged: Theme Park in 30’ we examine Big Moves in brands monetizing DTC digital experiences, vaccine requirements from Airlines, and big openings.

Stories covered: Warner Bros to Release 2021 films on HBO MAX concurrently with theatrical release; Qantas to require COVID-19 Vaccine to fly; Online shopping up 21.5% with 47% being via mobile; Cirque resuming in Summer 2021; USJ opens Super Nintendo World on Feb 4th; The National Gallery and The Design Museum sell tickets to digital exhibits; Monterey Bay Aquarium launces YouTube Music Playlists; Another Disney Minute.
Full Show Notes: www.greentaggedshow.com

This week on ‘Green Tagged: Theme Park in 30’ we dive deep into the ripples caused by Warner Brothers in the entertainment and attractions industry.
Stories covered: Warner Bros CEO Jason Kilar explains his move in an interview with the NY Times; California lockdowns resume; Russia announces plan for tourism recovery; Technifex pivots to offering themed environments to real training; Enchanted Forest raises $350K in crowdfunding; Flamingo Mingle; Rage Rooms; Museums in China are cashing in on blind box gift campaigns.
Full Show Notes: www.greentaggedshow.com

On today’s Green Tagged: Virtualizing pieces of your experiences and what the FTC’s case against Facebook means for your attraction.
Stories: BBC’s new Radiophonic Travel Agency, VR waterslide at Vana Nava Water Jungle, Thailand, MicroStrategy’s massive purchase of Bitcoin, & 4 Takeaways From The Government's Case Against Facebook.

On today’s Green Tagged, we continue the Futureproofing discussion with two topics your attraction should tackle in 2021: Diversity and Sustainability. Stories covered: “The World Travel & Tourism Council published new diversity guidelines for the travel and tourism sector,” “Walt Disney Company releases 2030 environmental goals,” “Self-driving vehicles launch at Wuhan’s Longlingshan Ecological Park,” “Wall Street’s Dilemma: What Are Tesla’s Shares Worth?,” “Army tests wrist-worn Covid-19 tracking device,” and “Tivoli donates Christmas trees to Corona test centers in Copenhagen, Denmark.”

On today’s Green Tagged, we examine three trends that will impact your attraction in 2021: Demand regeneration, Changing Guest Expectations, and Deglobalization. Stories covered: Universal reaches capacity before 9AM; Denny’s hostess quits on the spot after customers claim ‘religious exemption’ to wearing a mask; Discussion points taken from an interview with the new head of global content at Netflix.

On today’s Green Tagged, we discuss Combating Disenfranchisement and Designing for Empathy. Stories covered: “Inside the Capitol Siege,” “Japan declares 2nd State of Emergency,” “Busch Gardens Williamsburg to be open for first time in January,” “Glamping at Singapore’s Changi airport as traveltainment help airports weather COVID.”
Show notes: www.greentaggedshow.com

This week on Green Tagged: Policies and Mandates to get back out in front of the COVID Spread and Climate Change leads to more Experience Based Economy. Stories covered: “Japan to halt all business travel in new step to curb COVID-19,” “Around 80% of people in Japan believe the postponed Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics should be canceled or rescheduled,” “California's San Diego Zoo reports coronavirus cases,” “Tourism industry in Malaysia details expectations for 2021,” “Travel to Kamikatsu for a green epiphany: ‘Zero waste is about knowing yourself,’” “NEOM, The Line…The REAL Epcot,” “Moody’s new report outlines risk of climate vulnerable companies.”

This week on Green Tagged, we dedicate the entire show to pivots happening across the industry. Stories covered: “Disneyland in California to host COVID-19 vaccination site,” “LVHN setting up mass COVID-19 vaccination site at Dorney Park,” “IAAPA Expo Asia 2021 to take place in Shanghai,” “Show Up: A New Social Convention for FECs,” “ADG creates neighbourhood FECs from Moscow’s Soviet cinemas,” “Pawprints and lion-ripped jeans: Struggling zoos and aquariums in Japan offer unique gifts for donations,” “Al Ain Zoo launches new mountain biking experience,” “Ocean Park in Hong Kong to overhaul business model.”

This week on Green Tagged we cover the controversy surrounding Ocean Park in Hong Kong and then discuss other news that impact the guest experience worldwide. Stories covered: “Ocean Park in Hong Kong to overhaul business model,” “Ocean Park must show its will to survive,” “JRA partners with Holocaust & Humanity Center to present new AI exhibit,” “Disney's Jungle Cruise Attraction is Getting an Update,” “What 'vaccine passports' mean for your summer vacation,” “Lower House OKs ¥19 trillion extra budget despite criticism of virus measures.”

This week on Green Tagged we explore the concept of building a town square and adding tiers of play to your offerings. Stories covered: “With no Mardi Gras parades, New Orleans transforms houses into ‘floats,’” “NBBJ unveils spiral tower with hiking trails for Amazon’s new HQ,” “Expect revivals and VR from the stage as theater continues to deal with the coronavirus,” “Japan's new virus law: Fines for noncompliance and support for hard-hit firms,” “Hong Kong landlords adjust rent expectations as pandemic reshapes retail landscape amid changing consumer preferences,” “Quarantines are killing Thailand’s tourism industry, and not even a long holiday can offset 14 days of isolation,” “Walt Disney World Updates Social Distancing Policy.”

This week on Green Tagged we dive into how attractions in the western world are celebrating Valentine’s Day and what impact the Lunar New Year is having in Asia. Stories covered: “Ranch of Horror sends in the clowns for a twist on Valentine's Day grams,” “Hong Kong may ease coronavirus control measures after Lunar New Year, but rule on tracking app sparks business fears,” “China’s Covid-19 outbreaks force caution as Lunar New Year travel rush begins,” “Israel’s ‘green passports’ plan could lead way in reviving world tourism after Covid-19 vaccination programme is complete,” “SeaWorld San Diego’s Howl-O-Scream takes on Universal, Knott’s and Six Flags Halloween events.” Kung hei fat choi! 新年快乐!

This week we explore the avalanche of reopenings and new openings happening worldwide. Sit back and relax for this feel-good episode that shows light at coming at the end of the summer. Stories covered: “More than 40 U.S. theme parks set 2021 reopening dates,” “Disney World visitors may be wearing masks through 2021,” “Reopening guidance issued for New York amusement parks,” “Hong Kong theme parks resume operations with changes,” “New section to open at Energylandia in Poland, in 2021,” “Yerevan Park set to open in spring 2021 in Armenia,” “Bath, England, to see debut of Mary Shelley museum,” “Harry Potter exhibition planned for 2022,” “Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart now open at AREA15 in Las Vegas,” “HOLOGATE WORLD planned for Germany,” “Disney California Adventure Park to debut ticketed food and entertainment event in March; 1,000 employees to return to work.”

The industry professional's weekly dose of important Theme Park news in 30 minutes.
This week on Green Tagged, we discuss two new industry reports. First IAAPA released a study showing the impact of COVID-19 on the industry. Thinkwell’s study is the ‘2021 Guest Experience Trend’ and focuses on artificial intelligence.

The industry professional's weekly dose of important Theme Park news in 30 minutes.
Americans are holding on to $1.3 TRILLION and you must be ready to catch the wave of demand when the gates open. On this BONUS episode of green tagged, we’re discussing preparing you for the tidal wave of demand coming this year. Stories covered: “Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary to transform park icons into “Beacons of Magic”” “A Touch of Disney: Brand New Ticketed Festival Experience Coming to California Adventure in March,” “Far from done with lifetime achievements, former Imagineer Joe Rohde joins Virgin Galactic in key role,” “Herschend takes over as operator of Kentucky Kingdom.”

This week on Green Tagged we discuss how attractions will navigate states dropping restrictions, additional changes in the guest experience, and new pivots. Stories covered: “Texas Drops Its Virus Restrictions as a Wave of Reopenings Takes Hold,” “California theme parks, stadiums can reopen as soon as April 1 under revamped COVID-19 rules,” “Hongkongers may have to wait up to six months to resume travel, top tourism official warns,” “IAAPA updates COVID-19 guidance for physical distancing on rides,” “Work resumes on Universal's Epic Universe in Florida,” “Walt Disney Co. to focus on improving guest experience,” “Space tourism: world’s first space hotel opening in 2027,” “Steakhouse in New York fills dining room with wax figures,” “New Exhibit Coming to Philadelphia for Disney’s 100th Anniversary in 2023.”

This week we discuss announcements from Disney and Universal, vaccine policies in Israel and Thailand, the Tokyo Olympics, and pivots. Stories covered: “WDW is selling out,” “Florida's Walt Disney World reveals "Ratatouille" ride debut date,” “HHN30 announces dates,” “As Israel Reopens, ‘Whoever Does Not Get Vaccinated Will Be Left Behind’,” “Japan to stage Tokyo Olympics without overseas fans,” “Thailand eyes plans for vaccine passports and quarantine waivers to reopen travel to potentially millions of tourists,” “Online funerals and Zen apps keep Japan’s Buddhist temples afloat” “Spanish park and football league partner to create "The Beat Challenge"” “This patch developed in Japan could let you vaccinate yourself.”

Should we develop a worldwide tracking system that allows international travelers to skip quarantine? We detangle this topic including the sticking points and where we stand. Stories Covered: “China’s plans for ‘vaccine passport’ may be hampered by lack of data, diplomats say,” “This Is The Latest Cruise Line To Require Vaccinations For All Passengers And Crew,” “China asks visa applicants to get inoculated with Chinese-made vaccines,” “China creates a digital vaccine passport,” “British Airways boss says vaccinated people should be allowed to travel without restrictions,” “'Vaccine passports' could help global travel resume. But is Japan on board?” “Oxford Street plans include visitor attractions and green spaces,” “Hong Kong lawmakers almost unanimously approve HK$6.8 billion rebirth plan for Ocean Park.”

Airbnb is now the most valuable hotel company and attractions are testing face recognition technology. This week on Green Tagged we’re discussing your Digital Footprint and how that is changing what attractions know about guests. Stories Covered: Airbnb’s IPO; Facial recognition technology coming to Abu Dhabi, UAE, theme parks; Disney World Testing Facial Recognition Tech to Enter Parks; State Museum of Baden to feature Tinder-style app, My Object; Vacancy rates of Hong Kong street shops stabilize as eateries bet on spending bounce, cheaper rents to move into trendy districts; Marriott Quietly Launches Day Passes; Start-up Dash Living helps Hong Kong hotels switch to monthly leases, ride out pandemic slump.

This week we have updates to stories we’ve been tracking and news on new openings. Stories covered: US Vaccine Passports, State of California issues full updated theme park opening guidance, Hong Kong to lift ban on residents stranded in Britain, Taiwan And Palau Launch Coronavirus Travel Bubble, Disney World Will Pay Cast Members Who Get Vaccinated, IMF chief says lack of fans at Olympics won't harm Japan's recovery, Disneyland Proposes MAJOR Theme Park Expansion.

This week on Green Tagged we summarize the stumbling blocks attractions still face to successfully reopening. Specifically: the differing policies on travel, the new CDC guidelines, and scaling your workforce.

Stories covered: Summaries of policies from New Zealand, Britain, Japan, China, and the US. “Disney also announced cancellations of all Disney Magic cruises from European ports through Sept. 18,” “The C.D.C. advised that there was very little chance of contracting Covid from surfaces,” “HOLOGATE returns to peak player numbers following pandemic,” “More workers at Japanese airlines seconded amid pandemic,” “RWS Entertainment Group has announced the launch of RWS Staffing.”

Curation is the antidote to our recent algorithm poison; how can your attraction use Thought Leadership to excel? This week on Green Tagged we discuss the curation and discuss openings we love.

Stories: Time Out Market: first editorially curated market opens in Dubai; Avengers Campus; Super Mario Land; The Secret Life of Pets; Eye candy: getting high at California's Sugar Rush theme park; Cupnoodles Museum at China Hong Kong City now open; Cupnoodles Museum at China Hong Kong City now open; Ocean Park’s Spring Butterfly Festival.

How’s your merch game? This week we’re discussing large retailtainment openings and the land grab happening as companies struggle to go vertical.

Stories covered: ‘Harry Potter New York flagship store opening date set for June 3,’ ‘Next-Gen Luxury Guest Experience at the new IWC Flagship Boutique in Zurich, Design Build by The Producers Group,’ ‘Design Museum supermarket is selling artistic essential items,’ ‘2 new solar plants planned for Florida's Walt Disney World,’ ‘Disney launches plastic-free boxes for dolls ahead of Earth Day,’ ‘James Cameron’s ‘Secrets of the Whales’ debuts on Disney+ on Earth Day,’ ‘Disney and Sony announce unprecedented licensing agreement,’ ‘Escape Room Reality TV Show,’ ‘California theme parks can open to out-of-state guests.’

Fall is coming and as attractions ramp up, some are scrambling to find employees. We discuss why that is, how attractions are adding incentives, and what training will look like in the new normal.

Stories Covered: Genting SkyWorlds in Malaysia seeks 1,500 new workers; Great Wolf Resorts has almost 2,000 job openings available at 16 of its locations; 900 jobs available at Pennsylvania parks for 2021 season; Dutch Wonderland in Pennsylvania hiring 200 employees; Walt Disney World begins mass hiring again; Meow Wolf is hiring for various positions; A third of Basecamp’s workers resign after a ban on talking politics; Current Research Surrounding Social Distancing (April 2021) From IAAPA and UCF; Japan to introduce 'vaccine passports' for international travel

Seasonal events have always been used to encourage FOMO and drive attendance – and they work. Despite the staffing concerns we discussed last week, attractions are pushing Fall 2021 for all they’re worth. Attractions, restaurants, and streaming services are jumping on the Halfway to Halloween bandwagon – and you should too! This is the perfect time to begin pre-sales and get audiences a preview of the Fall. Clearly they’re ready for it.

Stories: Disney After Hours BOO BASH to Replace Halloween Party in 2021; Disney conjures up recipes for a ‘Halfway to Halloween’ celebration; The Muppets take The Haunted Mansion with new interactive YouTube world tour and Disney+ show; Inferno Lodge: People Living in the Red Forest; The forbidden Wedding.

This week’s major news is – of course – the CDC announcement that fully vaccinated Americans can stop wearing masks and maintaining social distance in most settings — both indoors and outdoors. While this is great news for attractions, it’s going to take some adjusting with your team. We discuss the Disney/Universal response and how you should open the dialogue at your attraction. Plus – as demand surges at attractions, the support infrastructure of tourism is straining.

This week, we’re circling back to cover updates on some big topics from previous shows. The EU is reopening to international travel, staffing struggles have escalated, and Disney doubles down on demand bets by raising prices.
Stories covered: The EU Reopens; Cedar Point to pay $20/hour; Disney Cruise Line Releases Pricing for the Inaugural Season of the Wish; Hong Kong Disneyland has posted its worst net loss on record at HK$2.66 billion.

Disney is reopening to out of state guests in California and Universal Orlando Resort is raising wages to compete on staffing. Companies are betting on the future of in-person experiences, but meanwhile media companies are trying to consolidate to combat Disney +. But what’s the big deal? IP is critical because it has extendibility. This week we summarize the state of media consolidation and discuss how attractions are using IP to extend experiences.

This week is full of updates from around the world. The EEOC gave guidance for mandating vaccines, while Universal Orlando became the first theme park to make masks voluntary for all guests. Seaworld Orlando enters into Universal’s territory with a new Halloween event; is allowing 100% ownership by foreign investment; Butterbeer is coming to New York; The Studio Tour in Tokyo is under construction; Japan’s TeamLab expands into food experiences; and Disney is cashing in on Pride month.

Quick Hits, a roundup of some of the new experiences catching our attention, and a discussion on app extensions.

Stories: Spain reopens borders to vaccinated tourists; Walt Disney World makes masks optional for guests effective June 15; Fantawild opens new Glorious Orient park in Ganzhou; Cedar Point opens Snake River Expedition; Hasbro unveils new Monopoly experience set to open in London; Musion delivers world's first hologram dining experience; Maya Hawke’s ‘Stranger Things’ Character Robin is Getting a Scripted Podcast and Novel Prequel; Youseum opens TikTok museum at Westfield in the Netherlands

This week we’re following up on trends impacting the day to day and the near future. Stories covered: California is reopen; prices for travel services are surging; Universal opened sales for HHN30; the Boo Bash is selling out; Midsummer Scream’s Awaken the Spirits; Dorney reduces summer days due to staffing shortage; and Universal hints at the future of Epic Universe.

This week: American cancels hundreds of flights; Knoebels and Seaworld Orlando add incentive programs for new hires; Disney resumes college program in time for 50th anniversary; Royal Caribbean discourages unvaccinated guests from sailing.

Despite the rising Delta Wave, surveys show that Americans are ready to go out. We’ll discuss recent travel surveys and look at new business opportunities for attractions. This week: Surveys from Morning Consult and AnyRoad show a return to events; Marriott on bleasure trends; parades return to Orlando; NCAA ruling; Knott’s Releases Official Podcast; Great Wolf Resorts Moves into Animation with ‘The Great Wolf Pack’

Stories covered: The Travel industry has a blueprint for reopening international travel; A congressional update from IAAPA; IAAPA Awards are open; The Theas are now free to stream; Universal Hollywood and Disneyland announce Halloween events; Lego’s NY Store has upped the retailtainment game; and Hans Christian Andersen museum opens in Denmark.

While France and LA are adding new mandates, new attractions are opening in time for the Fall Season. This week: LA County’s mask mandate; France’s tourism pass; Disney’s new campus; Halloween Nights at Eastern State; よみうりランド Pokemon Hunt; Universal Osaka’s Demon Slayer partnership.

This week we’re giving updates on industry staffing and then discussing new openings that focus on blending IP with the natural world to refurbish existing attractions. Stories: Disney Cruise Line to resume Bahamian voyages from Florida in August; multiple layers of safety measures added; IAAPA Supports the Robust Resumption of Visa Processing; Ohio's Coney Island offers new incentive for seasonal staff; Disney staff relocation to Florida indicates shift in priorities; Scream n' Stream; Ocean Park Launches Explorer R; Step into the Wizarding World with ‘Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience’; Pokémon Fossil Museum exhibit coming to museums across Japan

Delta is all that’s on anyone’s mind this week, so we’re doing something a little different. We dedicate the show to what you can do no to prepare. What contingency plans can I make?
How much should I reduce capacity? How will that impact staffing? Will demand go soft? All those questions answered and more.

As China begins to shut down again, attractions in the US are fighting to stay open and working. NYC’s new mandate program for recreation is one path, while Florida’s is another. And yet, numbers released this week show Universal already matching 2019 attendance with Cedar Fair at 85%. Plus, AA shows business travel returning.

The bad news: guests are grumpy, violent interactions are on the rise, and differing restrictions continue to confuse.

The opportunity: keeping reservation systems and upcharge experiences.

This week we’ll discuss all this and what you can do to navigate the next few months.

Last week we mentioned that Universal matching 2019 attendance levels with Cedar Fair at 85%. Disney’s Q3 Earnings report is better. Stories Covered: Disney’s Earnings Report; Cedar Fair Announces 2022 Investment; 12 Hasbro-themed entertainment Centers Openings; San Francisco’s Mandates; Disney Very Merriest After Hours offerings revealed; K11 Art Mall in Hong Kong welcomes new Meme Museum; Six Flags Over Texas celebrates 60th anniversary with new ride.

This week’s big news is the unveiling of Disney Genie. The service puts Disney one large step closer to the ‘park sharing’ model of peak efficiency. While the service democratizes concierge planning for every ticketholder, the lightning lane marks another set of ‘velvet ropes’ to get more spend per guest. Disney’s walls climb ever higher by adding technology and cash to the chasm. Will the service discourage passholders? How will other attraction compete? Does this kill vacation spontaneity? There’s a lot to discuss.

After some quick hits, our deep dive this week is retail experiences versus app extensions; while many brands are crafting experiences with licenses, Disney is doubling down on app experiences. Stories: Walt Disney World requiring COVID vaccine for unionized cast members; Delta’s Extra $200 Monthly Healthcare Surcharge To Unvaccinated Airline Workers May Have Serious Unintended Consequences; Vinyl dividers will separate guests and scareactors at Universal Studios; Universal Beijing Begins Trial Operations Sept 1; Ocean Park Hong Kong opens Bid for Development; Licensing International selects its 2021 Excellence Award winners; Universal Orlando releases Halloween Horror Nights menu inspired by haunted houses; Nearly all Disney store locations in Florida closing as Target announces ‘shop-in-shop’ expansion; Disney Wish to include interactive mobile device experience on board.

We’re one year old! This stories in today’s show deal with attractions choosing between wide audience appeal versus targeting audience segments. Stories: Walt Disney World Annual Pass sales to resume Sept. 8 with four new pass types; Merlin Entertainments & LEGO break ground on LEGOLAND Shenzhen Resort; Storyland Studios to design experiences around Ubisoft franchises; Europa-Park to launch its own on-demand streaming service on VEEJOY; InPark Magazine’s interview with Cedar Point’s new GM.

The administration is asking entertainment venues to require vaccines for guests; what should attractions do? Also – a discussion on SeaWorld’s inaugural Halloween event HowloScream, Universal Orlando’s Sellout nights, and Disneyland’s Very Merriest Nites.

After some quick hits, we’re discussing the Golden Ticket awards and how attractions are engaging their super fans. Stories covered: LA County Guideline updates; Amusement Today’s Golden Tickets; Universal Beijing’s Opening; Takeaways from Knott’s Scary Farm, Universal Orlando Horror Nights, SeaWorld, and more.

Quarterly reports from Disney and Cedar continue to show good trends, but more people at fall events means more conflict. Media has been latching on to anything that can be viewed as unsafe at attractions. In this episode we touch on larger trends and discuss what some folks are doing as a defense. Plus, we finish up with some killer collaborations at ScareHouse, Hershey Park, and the first haunted house NFT.

Crowds continue to swell at mega fall events, leading to more accidents. We dive into the incident report from Glenwood Caverns and the fighting at Six Flags properties, then discuss how attractions are responding. Plus, are unvaccinated people more likely to visit theme parks?

This week: A PSA for EIDL extensions, USJ and The Pokemon Company announce partnership, Six Flags Magic Mountain works with Clear, Prices for Lighting Lane Released, plus a roundup of new openings.

We’re discussing trends for this holiday season and crafting sophisticated fear on this episode of green tagged. Stories: Accesso reflects on industry trends; The Harris Poll releases Halloween metrics; Haunted Ghost Town (Findlay, Ohio) has cancelled their 2021 haunt season due to a lack of staffing; WDW will begin Christmas November 8th with Universal following on November 13th; Reflections from Terror Vault, The Vault of Souls, and Creatures of the Night at Zoo Tampa.

Stories: Insurance hikes threaten show rides and amusement parks, Vienna museums take to OnlyFans to share uncensored art, InPark Tracks is now available from InPark Magazine, Storyland Studios to create luxury tattoo experience for Fine Ink Studios, The labor shortage is spooking a new victim: haunted houses. Takeaways from The Vault of Souls, The Clown Academy, and Sir Henry’s Haunted Trail.

We're reflecting on the Halloween experiences we've worked on or attended this year. Mentioned: Creatures of the Night at ZooTampa, Ghoul School at Gaylord Palms, Hauntoween, Leogoland, Franklin Frights, Six Flags Fright Fest, Castle Park's Castle Dark, Luna Park Sydney, Universal, Knott’s Scary Farm, Seaworld Orlando and San Deigo, LA Haunted Hayride, The Vault of Souls, Nosferatu, Clown Academy, Winchester Mystery House, House of Spirits, and Terror Vault

With Halloween coming to an end, it’s time to recognize your cast and celebrate the transition over to Christmas. Staffing will continue to play a major role as international travel resumes. Stories Covered: Orlando Welcomes the Brits Back; Tokyo Disney Posts loss for 2021; Shanghai Disney Reopens after testing guests; Cedar Point Q3 earnings report is positive; the US added 531,000 jobs in October; IAAPA Announces 2021 Brass Ring Winners.

Results are in from the Q4 earnings reports: Disney continues to lead the pack as their strategy pays off while other parks are hoping seasonal events will save them. Meanwhile, the Halloween Autopsy revealed that the holiday season is beginning earlier than ever. Stories: Party City Halloween Revenue; HauntPay Industry Report; Disney Q4 Earnings Call; Cedar Fair Earnings; Seaworld Earnings; Holiday World Announces Return of 'Thanksgiving to Go' Meal Program; a preview for IAAPA 2021.

IAAPA Expos 2021 is over, and we’re recapping some the largest takeaways. Plus, a little update on Thanksgiving Travel Trends.

In the wake of the holiday season, Disney is doubling down on the day guest and working to secure staffing. Also a new slate of Thea recipients and Peppa the Pig! Stories: NY State of emergency; Walt Disney Co. pauses vaccine mandates for employees; Walt Disney World Pauses Select Annual Pass Sales; TEA announces 28th annual slate of Thea Awards recipients; Peppa Pig Theme Park at LEGOLAND Florida Resort to open as Certified Autism Center; Innovative FOTO at Field Museum allows guests to capture memories unaided

While attractions are benefiting from a booming economy, low unemployment and a high quit rate continue to confound. Is it time to rethink the employment model for attractions? Also, has Disney lost it’s magic?

While we’ve been focusing on the US market the past few shows, there’s growth showing in Asia and the UAE. Plus a round up of new openings. Stories: Universal Beijing Resort likely to surpass Shanghai Disney's daily visitors; Expo 2020 Dubai in UAE posts 7-week attendance figures; Melco unveils concept for second phase of Macau’s Studio City; Lunar New Year, Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival returning to Disneyland in 2022; Disney Genie Service coming to Disneyland Resort starting Dec. 8; The Arcane Experience in Los Angeles; Holiwood Nights 2022 Requires application at attend; Universal Orlando debuts Earl the Squirrel walk-around character

Omicron updates; Winter programming updates at parks (09:30); Theme Park Holiday Viewing Guide (18:30); Instagram Data Dive (26:10).

It's our Christmas special! In this special we take a break from the news to discuss the elements of a Christmas event at attractions.

In this New Year Special, we review our top 5 trends that will impact you and your attraction most in 2022. The list is: Reducing friction for the guest; Inflation; Season Creep; IP Extension; and Market Expansion.

This week we're recapping some of the largest stories from the last three weeks, all centered around the trend of attractions moving forward into the new year.

This week we explore stories about how attractions keep the guests flowing. From combating low staffing to setting attendance records, Half a Billion Dollar Renovations, and new seasons of fun – this week we’re showing the resilience of attractions. Take the Haunted Attraction Benchmark Survey here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/HAAHANSurvey

This week we’re discussing Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard and what that means for the Themed Entertainment Industry. Plus, how 2 large attractions are combating staffing issues. Participate in the Haunted Attraction Benchmark Survey here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/HAAHANSurvey

This week we delve into the deluge of opening announcements from attractions around the world and look at two museums are pivoting. Openings: EPIC Universe, Iron Gwazi, Emperor, Pantheon, Peppa Pig, the NFT Museum, Studio Ghibli Theme Park, Avengers Campus in Paris, Animax’s new China Facility, Universal Studios Beijing’s Chinese New Year Celebration, EPCOT’s Flower & Garden Festival, & Legoland New York.

This week we discuss SeaWorld offering to buy Cedar Fair, Bob Iger’s exit interview with the NY Times, and what it all says about the attention economy.

Disney continues to build higher walls around their properties. This week we discuss takeaways from the latest earnings call and compare that to Bob Chapek’s 2022 Goals.

While Disney continues to build walls around experiences with ‘Storyliving by Disney,’ attractions across the world are tearing them down by inviting guests to engage in cultural festivals. This week we touch on: Storyliving, Lost Spirits Distillery, St Patrick’s at Busch Gardens, Mardi Gras at Seaworld, The Batman Season in Abu Dhabi, and Cool Japan at Universal Osaka.

Today, we’re discussing ways the industry will change from the Russia Invasion, the Galactic Starcruiser, the Harry Potter Exhibition, Peppa the Pig, and the new Attack on Titan Exhibition.

This week we discuss the latest SeaWorld earnings, takeaways from the PLASA survey on live events, and why two cedar fair parks are discontinuing scary Halloween events.

Today’s show is all about the impact of policies on the attractions industry. From Chapek’s latest debacle to the Russian Oil Ban, Tokyo Disney’s new passes, and the cancellation of IAAPA Expo Asia – it’s a policy week on Green Tagged.

2 Attractions are stepping up their hiring incentives, plus we go LIVE from this year’s Transworld’s Halloween & Attractions Show in St Louis. Subscribe: https://www.haunt.news/

Supply chain disruptions are back as attractions also struggle with training new staff. Meanwhile, it’s full steam ahead for a record fall season. Stories covered: 14-year-old boy dies from fall on ICON Park ride in Orlando; China’s Covid Lockdowns Set to Further Disrupt Global Supply Chains; Select Tickets and Packages are on Sale Now for Halloween Horror Nights; Expo 2025: “More than an event.”

After a round of Quick Hits, we discuss the recent string of acquisitions and Universal’s new housing project. Find all the stories we discussed in our show notes: https://www.haunt.news/green-tagged-curation-community

This week we explore stories of staffing, acquisition, diversification, and breaking the 4th wall. https://www.haunt.news/green-tagged-the-staffing-balance

We’ll review the most important new attractions openings and break down why they’re all continuations of ongoing trends. Show Notes: https://www.haunt.news/green-tagged-trend-convergence

We dive deep into Disney’s troubles in Florida, then hit takeaways from the dissolution of CNN+ and the latest RWS acquisition. Show Notes: https://www.haunt.news/green-tagged-parks-politics-purchases

It’s Halfway to Halloween and we’re breaking down what you can learn from how other attractions are celebrating! Show notes: https://www.haunt.news/green-tagged-halfway-to-halloween

This week: The new queueless experience from Disney, SeaWorld and Cedar Fair are seeing financial recovery (despite still loosing millions), Universal staffs up, and performer safety.

This week Scott and Philip argue quite a bit over the Six Flags Q1 Earnings and Meow Wolf’s 2 new locations. Plus, are teens convinced about the Metaverse? Show notes: https://www.haunt.news/green-tagged-make-your-position-known

Coming up, Big Moves in the Right Direction. We’ll talk about Disney’s pride collection, Pirates of Speelunker Cave, the Summer Celebration at Busch Gardens Tampa, and how attractions are using TikTok.

This week we recap Licensing Expo 2022, discuss Ocean Park Hong Kong’s new water park, Hersheypark’s 2 new rides, Rocky Mountain Construction’s apprentice program, the Milwaukee County Zoo requiring masks, and the Drive-thru zoo experience returns to San Antonio Zoo.

Tiqets.com published “Must-Know Travel Industry Trends For the 2022 High Season” and we dig into the report and discuss some key takeaways. We also discuss the Shanghai reopening, Castaway Cove’s staffing, the live production of “The Greatest Show On Earth,” and new announcements from Matel Adventure Park. Download the report here (https://www.tiqets.com/venues/resources/high-season-travel-industry-trends-2022/) and read the show notes here: https://www.haunt.news/green-tagged-2022-summer-travel-trends

In our first "IRL" episode, Scott takes us on-location to the Indianapolis Zoo for a construction update. Then, Philip speaks with Brian Morrow at BMorrow Productions HQ about the recession, staffing, upcoming projects, and working with IP.

How much would you pay for a 24-day dream Disney vacation? Coming up – Disney unveils a new luxury experience, Universal Orlando unveils escape rooms, Ghost Town Alive! and Forbidden Frontier are returning for the 2022 season, and Electric Ocean comes to SeaWorld Orlando.

We discuss Disney's Abortion Travel Credit and their delayed move to Florida, plus new openings with Shaqtoberfest and Volkanu

Coming up, we’ll discuss Bob Chapek’s extension, the closing of California’s Great America, and Pride Day celebrates inclusion at Busch Gardens Williamsburg. Subscribe to all our offerings: https://linktr.ee/hauntedattractionnetwork

This week we’re sticking to I-5 for a few stories including girl injured by flying cellphone, Oogie Boogie Bash has sold out, Universal Studios Hollywood adds ‘Nope’ Jupiter’s Claim set to Studio Tour, and United has expanded their pilot program. We finish with two stories and a word of caution from China.