The International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) has confirmed that it will host the IAAPA Attractions Expo at the Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) in Orlando, Florida, for the next 10 years.

IAAPA Expo is the world's largest annual exhibition and conference for the visitor attractions industry, attracting around 25,000 people from 90 nations each year.

The news marks a u-turn on a previous decision to alternate the show between the west and east coasts of the US, as the show was scheduled to return to Las Vegas in 2011 after being held in the resort city in 2009.

A spokesperson for IAAPA said the decision to host the show in Florida until 2019 was based on six factors.

He said: "Florida is our preferred location - Expo attendees and exhibitors have indicated that the Orange County Convention Center (OCC) is the ideal building for IAAPA Attractions Expo.

"Orlando is the Mecca of the theme Park and attractions industry, so Expo participants are able to enjoy visiting the region to see what's new in the parks and attractions.

"Also, the location offers cost savings for us - signing the agreement with Orlando was the best long-term business decision for everyone involved. It will generate significant expense savings over the 10-year period of the agreements for exhibitors, attendees, and the association.

"There is also affordable worldwide access to Orlando - travelling in and out of Florida is affordable, and the Orlando International Airport is easily accessible from throughout the world.

"Lastly, the city has a proven track record. The 91-year attendance and exhibit sales records for IAAPA Attractions Expo were both established when the Expo was located in Orlando."