The International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions – Europe (IAAPA-Europe) recently joined ECTAA, EFCO&HPA, ETOA, HOTREC and IRU as a member of "NET". These 6 associations will work more closely together in the future to further the interests of private tourism entrepreneurs in Europe.

With a total turnover in Europe of about €3 billion, and more than 100,000 people employed across the EU, the attractions sector is one strong engine of the European economy. IAAPA-Europe is composed of 650 of IAAPA’s worldwide membership of 4,000 businesses; 95% of which being private enterprises, while the remaining 5% are non-profit-making organisations.

Through its membership in the network, IAAPA will add its voice and expertise to those of the other NET members, allowing NET to present a co-ordinated private industry view on EU tourism-related issues. The voice of NET is thus reinforced. NET has become the most representative umbrella for the tourism industry at EU level, standing as a key interlocutor for the European authorities in consultations on the likely consequences of their proposals impacting tourism.

However, each member organisation maintains its identity and continues to work on sector-specific issues when appropriate.

The NET has a flexible structure and remains open to other important industry associations representing tourism entrepreneurs in Europe.

Date of publication: 16th June 2009