Average annual real per capita GDP growth 2010-2024
Thermal pool outdoor and bar at Therme Bucharest, Romania
6.0%
5.0%
4.0%
3.0%
2.0%
1.0%
0.0%
Source: IMF WEO April 2025 Edition
Central Europe Central Europe represents one of the most promising growth areas for leisure and entertainment development. Economies across the region have posted strong GDP per capita growth, outpacing many larger Western European economies over the past decade. While the market remains less mature than other regions, rising disposable incomes are driving increased spending on recreational experiences, fuelling demand for attractions of all types. With a population of over 36 million and GDP per capita growth averaging 3.7% since 2010, Poland is Central Europe’s largest and most developed market. Energylandia has rapidly expanded to offer a wide range of attractions for families and thrill-seekers, while Majaland now operates three parks in Kownaty, Warsaw, and Gdańsk. The recent investment in Suntago World, Europe’s largest indoor water park beating Tropical Islands, underscores the appetite for large-scale leisure destinations, further supported by the planned opening of Hossoland, a major 40ha theme park, later this year. Investor interest remains strong across multiple markets and attraction types. Czechia has a favourable outlook, with one of the highest GDP per capita in Central Europe, low
unemployment and strong domestic tourism. Cities such as Prague, Brno, and Ostrava offer opportunities for appropriately scaled attractions. While the population is modest at 10.8 million, proximity to neighbouring markets - including Katowice in Poland and cities in Germany - enhances cross-border visitor potential. Romania is an emerging market that has been particularly active for LDP. Bucharest is home to the highly successful Therme Bucharest spa, wellness, and water park, while growing interest in Cluj-Napoca, Constanța, and Brașov reflects rising disposable incomes among the country’s 19 million residents. Long-term GDP growth has Economies across the region have posted strong GDP per capita growth, outpacing many larger Western European economies over the past decade.
Central Europe represents one of the most promising growth areas for leisure and entertainment development.
10 THE EXPERIENCE ECONOMIST: EUROPE EDITION 2025 | © LDP
THE EXPERIENCE ECONOMIST: EUROPE EDITION 2025 | © LDP 11
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