A Letter From Mike Konzen
We are pleased to present our eighth edition of PGAV’s Voice of the Visitor (VOV 2023).
As with prior editions, VOV 2023 enables us to evaluate the previous year’s industry performance and offer a look into the coming year. Across twenty different attraction types, we paint a picture of the many factors that will shape 2023’s performance for the thousands of attraction destinations across America. We are proud that so many VOV readers have come to rely on it as a valued resource in planning their success strategies for the coming year.
Visitors see the value in our attractions and the value of connection with each other. VOV 2023 again surveyed attraction visitors to learn what’s driving their choices, but we also know that environmental factors continually impact our visitors and attraction operations. The reality is that inflation and fears of a recession impact spending, but VOV 2023 shows there’s plenty of room for optimism. Visitors haven’t satisfied all their pent-up demand and are still relishing the chance to get out and explore.
They’re still willing to spend and continue to find new attractions to visit. VOV 2023 forecasts are strong—exceeding 2019 levels. Airlines, despite their recent troubles, are recovering along with hotels and cruise lines. Flexible work schedules allow for extended travel, and business travel is continuing to recover, enhancing the opportunity to entice bleisure visitors. Other factors in the economy are promising too—China reopening, low unemployment, and a growing GDP.
We continually analyze and respond to the changing world. Timed ticketing is here to stay in many places, and many attractions have seen surprising success by maintaining a lower capacity. Our ability to innovate allows us great opportunities to connect with our visitors and create beautiful moments and memories.
We invite you to review VOV 2023, and as always, we welcome your feedback.
Mike Konzen
Chairman
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