Ropes Courses Incorporated (RCI) has recently expanded its global reach even further thanks to a new partnership with Canadian adventure product supplier, Challenges Unlimited (CUI). Founded in 1988 and based primarily out of Bracebridge, Ontario, CUI specialises in challenge courses, aerial adventure parks, zip lines and climbing walls or towers. The decision to partner in turn makes CUI the first official Canadian distributor of RCI’s adventure attractions and adds them to a growing list of worldwide partners as RCI launches RCI Global, an international division of the company that will serve as a base for a network of distributors.
Starting off in the world of traditional challenge courses largely for the educational, therapeutic and camp markets, CUI began with a passion and an understanding of people’s desire to have fun. While in the last 10 years the adventure company has transitioned into the commercial market and found new opportunities with technology and other industries across Canada, founders Andrew Hubert and Sarah Oosterhuis have always had a positive relationship with RCI’s Jim and Michelle Liggett. It was both couple’s involvement in the Association for Challenge Course Technology (ACCT) and an aerial course collaboration in 1994 that helped to cement their decision to partner with RCI.
“We have the greatest respect for RCI. Their customer service, care for the product and the care of the people behind the product have always been there from the get-go,” explains Sarah Oosterhuis, general manager for CUI. “Making the decision to partner was simple for us as we see their adventure products as really having potential here in the Canadian market.”
Currently, CUI has two projects planned involving RCI attractions and installation dates have been set for this year. The two locations, both Playdium family entertainment centers, will soon be able to provide guests with indoor fun thanks to the addition of Sky Trail® and Sky Rail™ aerial attractions.
“CUI has proven their expertise in the Canadian adventure industry and their ability to deliver exceptional service to their clients is above par” says Jon Weston, vice president of sales & marketing for RCI.
Expansion into the Canadian market equals yet another trusted distributor of adventure products for RCI. Their new international division, RCI Global, aims to seek out qualified people in designated regions across the world, like Canada, to establish long-term mutually beneficial relationships and distributor partnerships. With a trial period of 6-12 months, RCI Global works with prospective distributors to complete projects, develop specific regional markets and learn about each other’s capabilities.
“We’re prioritising our relationships with our global partners in order to provide the best support and service to both our clients and the end-users” explains Weston. “We are excited for the future and eager to form additional relationships with partners around the world.”
For more information about RCI attractions including Sky Trail®, Clip ‘n Climb® climbing walls, and Amaze’n Mazes, visit www.ropescoursesinc.com. To learn more about Challenges Unlimited and their services, visit www.challengesunlimited.com.
