EY has released its first Media & Entertainment (M&E) Pulse Poll, exploring global consumer attitudes towards experiential entertainment activities, including cruises, theme parks, local events, sporting events, live shows, casinos and resorts.
Conducted in April 2025, the survey draws on responses from more than 4,000 consumers across the US, the UK, Western Europe and Asia-Pacific, offering a snapshot of consumer sentiment amid economic uncertainty.
The results highlight a continued interest in real-world entertainment experiences. Local and live entertainment were the most commonly purchased categories over the past year, with 48% and 46% of respondents respectively reporting recent purchases. Looking ahead, 21% of consumers globally plan to increase their spending in both areas. Regional differences are notable, with Americans more likely to plan a casino visit in the next 12 months (66% compared to 49% globally), while Asia-Pacific consumers show a stronger interest in theme parks (74% vs. 65%).
Technology also plays a key role in shaping the entertainment experience. Consumers of all ages identify digital tools as valuable, especially digital ticketing, navigation aids, and contactless services. Among Gen Z, 66% plan to purchase fast or priority passes for theme parks in the coming year, compared with 59% of all respondents, underlining the importance of convenience for younger consumers.
When choosing entertainment activities, cost and value for money are the most important considerations for 59% of respondents. Lower-income groups are more price-sensitive than higher earners. High costs were also cited as the biggest barrier to enjoyment (52%), ahead of crowded spaces and long wait times (both 42%). Younger consumers, particularly Gen Z, place more importance on cleanliness (27%) compared with the overall average (21%).
The poll also found that premium offerings remain in demand. About half of those who visited large theme parks or went on cruises in the past year purchased upgrades. A third of those who visited casinos, resorts or sporting events did the same. Most of these consumers felt the upgrades were worth the additional expense, particularly in theme parks, where 56% said the upgrades met expectations. Consumers in Asia-Pacific were more likely than the global average to pay for premium options across several categories, including theme parks (59% vs. 49%), sporting events (42% vs. 37%) and live entertainment (37% vs. 26%).
Motivations for entertainment purchases vary by age. While most respondents said they sought enjoyment (62%) and time with loved ones (55%), younger people were more likely to cite mental health as a key factor. Improving mental health was mentioned by 32% of Gen Z and 27% of millennials, compared with 23% overall.
Sustainability also influences purchasing decisions, especially among younger consumers. The most popular sustainable features globally were locally sourced food (69%) and contributions to local communities (67%). Gen Z and millennials were more willing to pay a premium of 26% or more for sustainability-related features, including carbon offsetting (28% Gen Z and 16% millennials vs. 12% globally), lower carbon footprints (25% Gen Z and 15% millennials vs. 11%), and water conservation (23% Gen Z and 15% millennials vs. 11%). This is notable given that younger consumers typically belong to lower income groups.
Javi Borges, EY Global and EY Americas Media & Entertainment (M&E) sector leader, commented: “At a time of global economic and geopolitical upheaval, our research shows consumers’ desire for immersive, live entertainment experiences is as strong as ever – and potentially getting stronger. For providers offering these experiences, this robust demand presents major opportunities. But to reap the full benefits, they’ll need to understand consumers’ varying motivations and preferences – and align their efforts, accordingly, including making effective use of technology to meet rising expectations.”
