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DEAL 2011
The Middle East’s premier trade show for the parks and attractions industry starts on April 4, and once again visitors will be able to enjoy a full seminar programme as part of the proceedings.
Nicco Parks – 20 years of fun
Since diversifying into the amusement industry at the end of the 1980s, India’s Nicco Corporation has successfully opened four amusement parks, boasting profits almost from day one.
Season Preview – North America
After a tricky few years, with minimal new attractions and as many parks closing as opening, a steadily improving economy means the 2011 season promises to be one of the best in years for park-goers in North America, writes Paul Ruben.
Curt Caffey – CNL Lifestyle Properties
CNL Lifestyle Properties entered the amusement industry in 2007 with the acquisition of two Great Wolf Lodges – yet doesn't operate a single one of its 24 park and FEC properties. Here senior vice-president and managing director Curt Caffey talks to Park World about the strategy behind what is now North America’s third largest park owner (by number of properties).
Wonder Full at Marina Bay Sands
A breathtaking 360-degree multimedia spectacular, Wonder Full at Marina Bay Sands lights up the Singapore sky each and every night, acting as a beacon across the bay.
Leadership in place at Legoland Florida
“After interviewing internal and external candidates from around the globe, I know that we’ve hired the absolutely best leadership team possible,” says Adrian Jones, general manager of Legoland Florida (pictured).
New trains for Gwazi
Cantilevered Coaster
Two American ride designers have joined forces to market a cantilevered rollercoaster system.
Washington's new waterpark
Shark Reef Water Park is coming soon to Kennewick, Washington. The project is the brainchild of local businessmen Mike Hillman and Dave Schlotthauer.
The Price Is Right – or is it?
As a new approaches at many of the world's parks and attractions, pricing decisions must be made. Frequently managers make such decisions based on costs rather than market realities.
Shoot! It's the Rapids!
It was off last summer to Cedar Point to check out the Ohio park’s new flume ride, Shoot the Rapids. "You will get wet," I was told. We'll see.
Are IP-branded attractions worth the investment?
Al Weber, Six Flags (pictured): As one of the most recognised entertainment brands in the world, Six Flags is very brand-centric. We have enjoyed a long and healthy partnership with Warner Brothers and utilise the intellectual properties of DC Comics, Looney Tunes and Hanna Barbera in various applications throughout our parks. IP investments are worthwhile when they extend and complement the goal of providing a fully integrated guest experience, namely branded characters combined with themed rides and attractions.
Technology focus for TiLEzone London
TiLEzone returns to London for a sixth time on Wednesday, March 16, with a technology-focused seminar programme and additional networking opportunities both before and after the event.
Legoland Discovery Center Atlanta
As part of its aggressive US expansion, Merlin Entertainments plans to build a third Legoland Discovery Center (LDC) in North America.
Underwater first for Legoland Windsor
The first Lego-themed underwater ride in the world will open this summer at Legoland Windsor near London.
Sea Life Kansas
Merlin Entertainments is to open a Sea Life aquarium in Kansas City, its fifth such outlet in the USA, which will open next spring on the first floor of Halls department store at Crown Center.
Mack Manta for SeaWorld San Diego
SeaWorld San Diego, California, is to add a Manta coaster in time for the 2012 season.
Winter at Phantasialand
For the eighth successive year Phantasialand in Brühl near Cologne staged a special winter celebration.
Let Battle (re)commence!
The world's tallest duelling coaster, Battlestar Galactica at Universal Studio Singapore, will reopen on February 21 after almost a year out of action.
Neptune Benson appoints Turner
Michael Turner, ex-Gateway Ticketing, has a new job. The attractions industry veteran is now vice-president of international business development for Neptune Benson, a leading manufacturer of filtration systems for waterparks, zoo and aquariums.