US theme park revenues are expected to increase by around 3-4 per cent each year between 2011 and 2015, according to a new study published by research agency Mintel.

The group found that revenues grew 10 per cent between 2005 and 2007, but fell 5 per cent in 2009 following the onset of the economic downturn and high gas prices.

Mintel now predicts that theme parks will see an upturn in revenues going forward, with US residents "more comfortable" with spending money on holiday.

It has been revealed that admissions represent 60 per cent of annual revenues at theme parks, which is followed by food and beverage (17 per cent) and merchandise (10 per cent).

Mintel senior analyst Fiona O'Donnell said: "While Americans are still budget-conscious, they are starting to become more comfortable spending their money on travel.

"A greater willingness to take vacations, along with the incentive of enticing price promotions offered by many leading theme parks, we anticipate an increase in theme park attendance and therefore, an increase in sales in the coming years."

Details: www.mintel.com