GOSA celebrates 75 years of amusement industry leadership

By | February 12, 2025

Fairs and festivals industry advocate and advisor, Greater Ohio Showmen’s Association (GOSA) is celebrating 75 years of impactful leadership in 2025. The non-profit organization, 455 members strong, represents the enterprises of modern midways at fairs and festivals across the State of Ohio. 

The Ohio Concessionaires Association was established in 1950, changing its name to GOSA in 1953 to serve the growing community of food, rides, and game businesses on the modern midway. As Bill Sterling, GOSA president notes, “we have achieved a significant impact over the years for our members and the industry in Ohio, and nationally too.” 

GOSA spearheaded initiatives creating the Ohio Amusement Ride Safety Advisory Council, and the first Rider Responsibility Law in the United States. Recognizing the value of the Association’s leadership, State regulators have awarded GOSA two seats on the Advisory Council. In addition, GOSA is represented on the Ohio Food Services Advisory Board, and the Ohio Game Rule Advisory Board. 

“Our fairs and festivals are the showcases of the agriculture industry, where families look forward to creating new memories each year,” said Brian Baldridge, Director of the Ohio Department of Agriculture. “Ohio’s ride safety regulations are among the strongest in the country, which help ensure a safe experience for fairgoers. ODA commends the Association for their strong industry representation, dedication and focus on safety.”

Howard Call, Director of the Ohio Fair Managers Association, echoes the sentiment noting, “GOSA is an indispensable partner given everything they bring to the table, and we anticipate continuing our strong relationship going forward.” “Our amusement industry is evolving every year with more sophisticated rides, menus, food options and staffing challenges,” Bill Sterling observes, adding, “We need to leverage our advisory affiliations, and continue to work in concert with our members, government, and industry partners advocating for common sense regulation to achieve efficient operations while staying on our toes to meet every challenge.” Sterling concludes, ” And we will, as we have done for the past 75 years.”