Themed Entertainment Association (TEA) president Michael Mercadante plans to drive the organisation's growth in new markets.

Speaking to Attractions Management (Issue 1 2019), Mercadante said that while expanding the association globally is one part of the plan for his tenure, the expansion would not only be governed by geography.

"The industry is evolving and diversifying in terms of market sectors, types of projects, guest expectations and business culture," he said. "My own background puts me in an ideal position to help expand the conversation within the museum and zoo communities and to grow TEA's presence in those communities around the world.

"There are many business spaces in need of what TEA members can do in terms of storytelling, placemaking and compelling experiences."

Mercadante, who has been a member of TEA's board since 2012, is president of US-based experience design firm Main Street Design. He succeeded David Willrich as TEA president in November 2018.

Mercadante says Willrich's legacy is one of a strong foundation for TEA events around the world, and he intends to build on this, saying: "A huge benefit of TEA membership is the access to people, places, discussions and venues we provide."

To read the full article see Issue 1 2019 of Attractions Management here

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