The LBX Show #46 – Lego’s LBE moves, IAAPA EU debrief, CEC’s book, and more!

Transcript

Sponsored by Intercard!
Sponsored by Alan-1!

On this week’s episode we dive into the major news and developments from IAAPA Expo Europe 2025, explore LEGO’s $270 million acquisition of all LEGOLAND Discovery Centers, and provide essential Q4 holiday promotion strategies.

• LEGO acquires all 29 LEGOLAND Discovery Centers from Merlin Entertainment for $270 million, signaling a major shift in IP owner involvement in LBE
• IAAPA Expo Europe draws 15,877 verified attendees across 121 countries, with 700 exhibitors showcasing the latest industry innovations
• Two new IAAPA board members with extensive FEC experience join, bringing much-needed operational perspective to industry leadership
• Tilt Studio closes in Wichita Falls despite signing a 40-year lease, highlighting risks of mall redevelopment and evolving entertainment preferences
• Chuck E. Cheese partners with Genius Cat Books to release a children’s book that includes 750 free e-tickets, showcasing innovative brand extension
• Spotify announces a Taylor Swift-themed pop-up experience, demonstrating how music platforms are entering the experiential entertainment space
• IAAPA Expo Europe showcases fewer VR attractions than previous years, with increased focus on mixed reality and physical experiences
• Chuck DeMonte shares practical strategies for maximizing Halloween, Thanksgiving, Black Friday, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve promotions

Don’t miss our upcoming Sound Off with Kevin Williams on Tuesday, September 30th, where we’ll discuss LEGO’s acquisition in greater depth, and our Behind Our Doors episode with Do the Beach on Thursday, October 2nd.

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Brandon Willey

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