Middle East Tourism: The Elephant in the Room

Six Flags has officially named Travis Kelce as a brand ambassador. Kelce, who joined investor group Jana Partners when they acquired a 9% stake in the company last October, will provide marketing support across Six Flags' portfolio of parks — including digital content on his own social media platforms and the use of his name, image, and likeness in broadcast, streaming, and in-park marketing.We also tackle what listeners have been asking us about for weeks: the impact of the Middle East situation on tourism and the attractions industry. IAAPA has canceled its Middle East expo, the Strait of Hormuz remains closed, and the inflationary ripple effects of higher oil prices could squeeze discretionary spending. Scott and Philip disagree on whether that helps or hurts regional parks like Six Flags, and we talk through what parallel planning actually looks like for operators right now.Plus, Disney Experiences announces its post-D'Amaro leadership team: Thomas Mazloum as chairman, Jill Estorino to Disneyland Resort, Tasia Filippatos to Parks International, and Lisa Baldzicki to Consumer Products.For the full conversation and our deeper takes, check out this week's bonus episode on Patreon.