The publisher of Park World Magazine and Park World Excellence Awards organiser, Datateam Business Media, has responded to concerns about travel restrictions and calls for more time to enter this year’s awards scheme, by announcing a live streamed event in December together with an extension to the eligibility period and submission deadline.
Commenting on the move, media director Paul Ryder said: “Despite not being able to meet in person, last year’s virtual event was very well received by the industry and only underlined the value the industry places on being a Park World Excellence Award winner.
“While we would love to hold the Park World Excellence Awards in the traditional way, the reality is that for many, travel will still be difficult so it makes sense to open it up to the entire industry by again hosting the Awards online. This in turn enables us to respond to calls from our readership to take into account the late start to the season, by extending the eligibility period to 31 August 2021 and deadline for entries and nominations to 30 September. ”
Speaking on behalf on the judging panel, Marcus Gaines, owner of Ride and Park Media said: “As the pandemic continues to have a huge impact on visitor attractions across the globe, it’s important that we extend the eligibility period for this year Excellence Awards so as to allow more projects to welcome guests for the first time to be nominated. Allowing a few more weeks gives the opportunity for more entries to be recognised for their incredible work.
“Being a live streamed event, when international travel remains unpredictable, ensures that parks and suppliers right across the EMEA can be a part of the celebration and that even more members of their teams can see their work being championed.”
Launched in 2018, The Park World Excellence Awards is a leading annual awards scheme designed to recognise remarkable operators in the EMEA region (Europe, the Middle East and Africa) and the outstanding manufacturers, suppliers and entertainment specialists that worked with them to bring the year’s top experiences to life.