There is an strong line-up of industry leaders and innovators as speakers at IAAPA Expo Europe 2019 (formerly Euro Attractions Show). IAAPA Expo Europe can be regarded as the largest show in event history, occupying 17,500+ net square meters of exhibition space at the Paris Expo Porte de Versailles in Paris, France, 16-19 Sept. 2019. The speaker of Leadership Breakfast, held on 18 Sept., was Nicolas de Villiers, president of Puy du Fou, as he shares the successes of the unique Grand Parc and looks ahead to new international expansions. De Villiers directs the staging and oversees the strategy of unique Puy du Fou historical shows and performances. Puy du Fou, which welcomes more than two million visitors annually, is a popular theme park in France.

During Future Feature: The Future of Disneyland Paris on 19 Sept., Daniel Delcourt, chief operating officer for Disneyland Paris and David Wilson, Walt Disney Imagineering site leader for Disneyland Paris, share a unique look into the future of the resort. As chief operating officer, Daniel Delcourt is the head of more than 13,000 Cast Members and develops and implements the operational strategy for the destination with one objective in mind — to develop an excellent service and high-quality guest experience. As Walt Disney Imagineering site leader, David Wilson leads the design and delivery efforts for all major new attractions and resort projects at Disneyland Paris for Walt Disney Imagineering.

World-renowned industry leaders shared their views at IAAPA Expo Europe in France. The figures in order are Nicolas DE Villiers, Daniel Delcourt and David Wilson. (From left to right)

On 17 Sept., prominent leaders of European park groups particularly share their insights and perspectives on the French amusement park market while sharing news about the goals and strategies for their organizations. Speakers at the Lunch and Learn: What's Next for the French Attractions Industry include: Francois Fassier, director of Leisure Parks Operations at Compagnie des Alpes; Laurent Bruloy, president of Looping Group; and Benoit Chang, CEO of Europa City. On 18 Sept., the Lunch and Learn: Eye on the Middle East and Africa Attractions Industry feature industry leaders discussing the latest developments in the Middle East and Africa regions. Speakers include: Sabine Lehmann, executive director, Attractions Africa; Bill Ernest, CEO, Saudi Entertainment Ventures (SEVEN); and Bianca Sammut, general manager, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. (2019/09, 178G)