Six Flags Great Adventure announces Jeremy Hacker as first Executive Chef in park’s history
JACKSON, N.J. — Six Flags Great Adventure is proud to introduce Jeremy Hacker as the park’s first Executive Chef. Chef Hacker’s leadership and culinary expertise marks a new chapter in Six Flags Great Adventure’s commitment to elevating the park’s dining experience. Chef Hacker’s career has been defined by a passion for creating innovative, high-quality dishes at popular establishments […]
Atlanta firm acquires neighboring mall of Elev8 Fun Sanford
The Seminole Towne Center Mall, an enclosed shopping center originally owned by Simon Property Group and later owned and operated by Hollywood-based 4th Dimension Properties, that serves as the first location for Elev8 Fun, has been sold. Atlanta-based “The Ardent Companies”, an asset-management firm with multiple divisions including real estate development, has acquired The Seminole […]
New act set to bring more entertaining energy and excitement To Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show in Pigeon Forge
PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. — The swashbuckling and adventurous crew from Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show in Pigeon Forge veer slightly off course this spring and find themselves docked in an unknown port in their never-ending search for more treasure. This new experience for the pirates, “South Pacific Celebration,” adds even more excitement and fun to […]
Herschend to acquire Palace Entertainment’s U.S. attractions from Parques Reunidos
ATLANTA, Ga. — Herschend and Parques Reunidos have signed a definitive agreement under which Herschend will acquire all of Palace Entertainment’s U.S. entertainment properties from Parques Reunidos. This agreement represents a significant milestone for both organizations—supporting Herschend’s strategic expansion in family entertainment and hospitality while allowing Parques Reunidos to reinforce its strategic focus on its core European market. “This […]
Ann-Kathrin Mack to become Managing Partner of Europa-Park
Ann-Kathrin Mack, daughter of Marianne and Roland Mack, has been appointed as an additional Managing Partner of Europa-Park. The 35-year-old architect, who has held a leading position in the company for nine years, is already responsible for the Mack Solutions/Construction Management division. In her new role as Managing Partner, she will additionally take on responsibility […]
Pudgy Penguins & Pipeline Games unveil new claw machine at Amusement Expo 2025
LAS VEGAS, Nev. — Pudgy Penguins, the digital-first brand making waves in toys, gaming, and entertainment, is partnering with Pipeline Games to introduce the Pudgy Penguins Claw Machine, debuting at Amusement Expo International 2025. This state-of-the-art 31” claw machine features: More than just an arcade game, this machine connects to Pudgy Penguins’ expanding entertainment ecosystem. Winning a plush isn’t just a […]
Wooster Products names New Regional Sales Manager
WOOSTER, Ohio — Wooster Products, the industry leader in anti-slip safety stair treads and walkway products, has added Sean Brown as a new Regional Sales Manager. In his new role, Brown will work with sales channel partners to promote the entire line of Wooster Products safety stair nosings and treads, anti-slip tapes, and coatings to […]
RWS Global acquires Harmony Helper App, a virtual rehearsal tool for singers
NEW YORK — RWS Global, the world’s leader in live moments, today announced it has acquired Harmony Helper, a patented app which helps singers learn their part of a song. Through the acquisition of Harmony Helper, RWS Global’s clients will unlock significant rehearsal cost savings, while thousands of singers in productions around the world will […]
Intercard brings award-winning IQ System to Cinemacon April 1-3
ST. LOUIS — Intercard, the world leader in cashless technology for the amusement industry, will exhibit at the cinema industry’s CinemaCon 2025 at Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas from April 1-3. Account executive Joe Guccione will be at booth 319J to showcase Intercard’s cashless payment systems for use in cinemas. Featured this year is Intercard’s award-winning iQ […]
Introducing The GrowthPro Group: a new era of growth solutions, led by the 20th birthday of TrainerTainment
NORTH RICHLAND HILLS, Texas — The GrowthPro Group, an emerging innovator in business growth solutions, proudly announces its official launch. With a foundation built on proven strategies and a forward-thinking approach, The GrowthPro Group is ready to empower businesses across a wide range of industries. This exciting announcement coincides with the 20th birthday of TrainerTainment, […]
NEAAPA hosts successful 112th Anniversary Education Conference & Annual Meeting
MYSTIC, Conn. — Over 140 industry professionals from across the NEAAPA region and beyond gathered to learn, network, and celebrate distinguished contributors to the attractions industry at the 112th Anniversary Education Conference & Annual Meeting, held at the Hilton Mystic Hotel. A Gathering of Industry LeadersNEAAPA – The Northeast’s Entertainment Association – represents the attractions industry across Connecticut, […]
RES Rides: Transition of management — Willy Walser hands over to Roman Rothe
After 45 fulfilling years in this wonderful industry, the time has come for Willy Walser to pass on the day-to day management of RES Rides into new and capable hands. The company announce that Roman Rothe a skilled engineer with over 15 years of experience in our field, will now take over the management of […]
Sacoa set to attend three major trade shows for March 2025
Don’t miss the opportunity to discover how Sacoa can increase your sales, decrease your costs, and give you more control over your operation!
Six Flags New England unveils historic food & beverage investment with first Executive Chef
AGAWAM, Mass. — Celebrating its 25th anniversary as Six Flags, Six Flags New England is making its largest culinary investment in park history. One key initiative includes naming Josh Streeter as the park’s first executive chef. “We are thrilled to welcome Chef Josh Streeter to the Six Flags New England family. His exceptional talent and innovative approach to culinary […]
Lake Compounce hiring more than 1,000 employees for 2025 season
BRISTOL, Conn. — America’s First Amusement Park, Lake Compounce is seeking more than 1,000 employees to join the park ahead the 2025 season. The park is currently hiring across all positions including Food and Beverage, Lifeguards, Rides, Guest Experience and more. Team Members at Lake Compounce will enjoy several employee perks including pay rates up to $18, free […]
Six Flags Over Texas introduces new chef and menu options for 2025
ARLINGTON, Texas — Six Flags Over Texas is introducing brand-new menus offering fresh ingredients, homemade dishes, healthy options and for the first-time, smoked-in-house meats with the help of the park’s first-ever executive chef. Internationally renowned chef Douwe Iedema brings more than 25 years of culinary mastery to elevate the dining experience for park guests. A native of […]
Betson Imperial Parts & Service celebrates 10 years of Betsonparts.com
Betson Imperial Parts & Service, a leading distributor of arcade, vending, gaming, and OCS parts, is proud to celebrate the 10th anniversary of betsonparts.com, its premier e-commerce platform. Since its launch in 2015, betsonparts.com has changed how businesses in the arcade and gaming industries source and purchase parts, providing customers with an intuitive and efficient online shopping experience. […]
Today’s trends and tomorrow’s are celebrated during TEA’s State of the Industry
BURBANK, Calif. — The Themed Entertainment Association (TEA) proudly announces the dynamic panel of industry experts who will take part in the TEA State of the Industry discussion during the annual TEA INSPIRE conference. Taking place on Friday 14 March at 11 a.m. PST in Universal City, California, TEA’s State of the Industry is one of the […]
Indonesia’s famed Taman Safari Theme Park and Safari Resorts owner engages Legacy Entertainment to help master plan and design its next generation of visitor experiences
HOLLYWOOD, Calif. and JAKARTA, Indonesia — Taman Safari, Indonesia’s respected owner and operator of nine major parks and four safari resorts, has paired up with US-based Legacy Entertainment, to master plan and design its next-generation of experiences and attractions. Legacy will focus on Taman Safari Bogor – the chain’s original park, which debuted in April 1986. That park is […]
Semnox Wins Innovation Award at Rimini Amusement Show
RIMINI, Italy — Semnox Solutions has been honored with the ENADA Primavera Innovation District Award for Best Innovative Product at the Rimini Amusement Show. The award recognizes Semnox’s Radian Smart Wristband, an innovative RFID-based solution designed to enhance time-based access management in entertainment venues. This marks the second major accolade for the Radian wristband, following […]
Baynum Solutions announces leadership transition, names Walt Bowser President and CEO, welcomes Kevin Gessner as SVP, Administration
NEWPORT, Ky. — Baynum Solutions, the premier amusement park, water park, commercial and industrial painting and construction provider to leading companies worldwide since 1983, today announced the upcoming retirement of Managing Director Daniel Adams and promotion of Walt Bowser to President and Chief Executive Officer. John Andrews, longtime leader of the successful commercial and industrial […]
International Women’s Day 2025: Embed inspires to #AccelerateAction for inclusivity
SINGAPORE — Embed, the world’s FEC tech partner of choice for the amusement, entertainment, and leisure industries, inspires to #AccelerateAction by forging gender equality in the tech sector for International Women’s Day 2025. According to a study by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, women held only 35% of tech jobs at the end of 2023 […]
March 2025
The MARCH 2025 issue includes:
Experience Intercard’s award-winning IQ System created for unattended arcades
ST. LOUIS — At the 2025 Amusement Expo International March 19-20, Intercard will feature its award-winning iQ system of readers and kiosks that leverages QR codes, setting the new standard for unattended amusement center payment technology. iQ devices use built-in scanners to read customer presented QR codes for payment and redemption point collection. This enables customers […]
Betson Imperial Parts & Service to showcase Javelin displays at Amusement Expo 2025
Betson Imperial Parts & Service will showcase Javelin Displays, a leading OEM manufacturer of high-performance monitors, touchscreen solutions, and components, at Amusement Expo 2025 on March 19th & 20th in Las Vegas, NV. The company will showcase its latest display technologies designed specifically for the arcade and amusement industry, offering manufacturers and operators enhanced visuals, durability, and interactive […]
AAMA members advocate for industry concerns on Capitol Hill
CARY, Ill. — On Thursday, February 13, a dedicated group of eleven members from the American Amusement Machine Association (AAMA), led by AAMA Executive Vice President Pete Gustafson, spent the day on Capitol Hill advocating for issues crucial to the amusement industry. The delegation, supported by John Russell IV, a Partner with the Government Relations […]
Fritz’s Adventure names Bobby Davis as Director of Operations
DALLAS, Texas — Fritz’s Adventure announces the appointment of Bobby Davis as Director of Operations, bringing his extensive leadership and operational expertise to the company’s second location in The Colony, Texas. As a key member of the senior leadership team, Davis will play a pivotal role in ensuring the success of the new adventure park, serving […]
Innovative Attraction Management announces key employee promotions & new hires at multiple park locations
WINDERMERE, Fla. — Innovative Attraction Management (IAM) is excited to announce the promotion and hire of several outstanding team members who have demonstrated exceptional dedication, leadership, and growth. These team members reflect IAM’s commitment to recognizing and nurturing talent within the organization, ensuring delivery of unparalleled experiences and services to IAM’s clients and partners. “We […]
Arcade operations expert Chris Barker joins Intercard’s account team
ST. LOUIS — Intercard, the world leader in cashless technology, has added amusement industry veteran and arcade operations expert Chris Barker to its team as an account executive. Chris has been in the amusement industry for 25 years and has experience in installing, operating and maintaining arcades for amusement and water parks, FECs and route operations. […]
Here’s why In The Game Fremont Street Arcade chose Sacoa
LAS VEGAS — Sacoa Cashless System, the global leader in revenue management and cashless solutions for the entertainment industry, proudly announces the successful installation of its cutting-edge products at the newly opened In The Game Fremont Street arcade, operated by Family Entertainment Group (FEG), on the iconic Las Vegas Fremont Street. The modern venue chose […]
Stolen Quassy carousel figurine recovered after 40 years
MIDDLEBURY, Conn. — The elusive Lake Quassapaug sea monster has resurfaced after disappearing nearly 40 years ago. The sea monster, also known as a hippocampus among carousel enthusiasts, was stolen from Quassy Amusement Park here on Nov. 16, 1985, and its whereabouts unknown until late December of last year. Now the rare hand-carved figurine is […]
Sacoa strengthens international reach with key exhibitions in February 2025
Sacoa Cashless System, the global leader in revenue management solutions, is gearing up to start the second month of 2025 with notable appearances at two prominent global industry events. Team members from Sacoa’s regional offices will be present to offer their knowledge and expertise at the following shows: Sacoa’s participation highlights its dedication to providing […]
Forbes names Dollywood among America’s best employers
PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. — With hiring events in full swing for Dollywood’s 40th anniversary season, another national publication has recognized Dollywood as one of America’s best. Announced today, Forbes has placed Dollywood on its 10th annual list of America’s Best Midsize Employers.The Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, park is the only theme park to rank on Forbes’ midsize company list. With […]
Dippin’ Dots brings the fun home for the first time
PADUCAH, Ky. — Dippin’ Dots, the original beaded ice cream beloved by families for nearly four decades, is coming home with its customers for the first time, thanks to the launch of Dippin’ Dots Ice Cream Sundaes. Loyal Dippin’ Dots fans and fanatics had long hoped for a home freezer variety, but the iconic special occasion treat had been […]
International Association of Fairs and Expositions (IAFE) launches economic impact study
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — The International Association of Fairs and Expositions (IAFE) is excited to announce the launch of the 2025 Economic Impact Study. This comprehensive study aims to provide valuable insights into the economic and fiscal contributions of fairs to their host communities. Data Collection Now OpenAll fairs in the United States are now strongly […]
Will Morey reappointed to U.S. Travel and Tourism Advisory Board for third term
WILDWOOD, N.J. — Morey’s Piers, an iconic family-owned amusement park in Wildwood, New Jersey is proud to announce that it’s President and CEO, Will Morey, has been reappointed to the U.S. Department of Commerce Travel and Tourism Advisory Board (TTAB) for a third term. This prestigious appointment spans two administrations, highlighting Mr. Morey’s longstanding commitment […]
OABA secures discounted rate for Ridebooks online database
OABA has secured a discounted rate for the RIDEBOOKS online database as a member benefit. This equips larger groups and shows with an interactive database of critical safety information, including NDTs, Manuals, and Bulletins. Dozens of carnival operators, state inspection agencies, and third-party inspectors already utilize RIDEBOOKS to make our industry as safe as possible. […]
SimEx-Iwerks unveils new brand identity to mark new chapter in innovation and growth
BALTIMORE, Md. — SimEx-Iwerks, a leader in innovative cinematic attractions, is proud to announce the release of its new brand identity today. This marks the first time the company’s logo and visual identity have been updated since its founding in 1981 by Michael Needham and Shiori Sudo. The rebranding is part of a larger restructuring […]
GOSA celebrates 75 years of amusement industry leadership
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 […]
Wavegarden, the world leader in the creation of surf parks, thanks to the efficiency and profitability of its technology
SAN SEBASTIAN — For over ten years, the Spanish company has been dedicated to researching and developing advanced wave-generation technologies, creating sustainable and profitable surf lagoons to deliver perfect waves and beach experiences anywhere. Its patented technology and robust business model have become one of the main attractions for new real estate and leisure developments. […]
Maurer Rides becomes the world’s first B Corp-certified roller coaster manufacturer
MUNICH, Germany — Maurer Rides has become the first roller coaster manufacturer worldwide to receive the prestigious B Corp certification. This recognition highlights the company’s commitment to social responsibility, environmental consciousness, and sustainable business practices. Maurer Rides CEO Jörg Beutler stated: “We pursued B Corp certification to better structure our diverse sustainability efforts and identify […]
It’s official! Orange County mayor names February 1st Falcon’s Beyond Day in honor of Falcon’s Creative Group’s 25th anniversary
ORLANDO — Falcon’s Creative Group, a division of Falcon’s Beyond Global, Inc. (Nasdaq: FBYD) (“Falcon’s” or the “Company”), a visionary leader in innovative and immersive storytelling, kicked off its year-along 25th anniversary celebration with high honors and a special proclamation from Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings. In recognition of Falcon’s Creative Group’s pioneering […]
Sartori presents the Zero Gravity
These are specifications of Sartori’s new attraction called Zero Gravity whose first unit was purchased by AMUSEMENT SERVICES AUSTRALIA and is now in transit for its debut scheduled at the Sydney Royal Easter Show in April 2025. Zero Gravity is an enlarged version (XXL) of our best selling attractions Techno Jump (sold in over 100 […]
Ralph Alberts Co. introduces new paint system: Ride Armor 63
Ralph Alberts has a legacy of solving tough problems and seizing opportunities for improvement in the amusement industry and beyond. It’s no secret: Foam/PUR ride safety pads don’t last forever. The typical life of ride padding is anywhere from 1-5 years depending on the combination of ride cycles and the environmental conditions specific to the […]
Betson Enterprises Partners with GoodTimes for a 30-game installation
TROY, Ala. — Betson Enterprises, the industry leader in distributing location-based amusement products, announces the completion of a 30-piece game room installation at GoodTimes in Troy, AL. This marks the second collaboration between Betson and GoodTimes to bring high-quality entertainment to their guests. Under the guidance of Betson Sales Representative Bob Sommer, the arcade was […]
February 2025 issue
The FEBRUARY 2025 issue includes:
Boost profits with Sacoa’s cutting-rdge solutions – Atrax Expo Istanbul 2025
Sacoa Cashless System is proud to announce its participation as an exhibitor at Atrax Expo 2025, taking place from January 30 to February 1 at the Istanbul Expo Center in Turkey. Visitors to the show are invited to stop by Booth #A-170 to discover Sacoa’s comprehensive range of cashless solutions. At Atrax, Sacoa’s team of […]
Southern bowling operators roll with Intercard
ST. LOUIS — Two Southern bowling centers have chosen Intercard’s latest cashless technology to manage their arcades. The big arcade at Player Two Strike and Spare FEC in Louisville, Kentucky boasts more than 65 games. The new center totals 45,000 square feet with 34 lanes of bowling including an 8 lane VIP suite, a full […]
NxGn Arena exceeds expectations after Sacoa installation
NxGn Arena, a revolutionary FEC that blends cutting-edge technology with thrilling activities, has officially opened its doors in Edgewater, NJ. Strategically located in a prime area, the new, 7,000-square-foot-venue offers an array of next-level entertainment experiences for guests of all ages. NxGn Arena has partnered with Sacoa Cashless System, the global leader in revenue management […]
Southern Bowling operators roll with Intercard
ST. LOUIS — Two Southern bowling centers have chosen Intercard’s latest cashless technology to manage their arcades. The big arcade at Player Two Strike and Spare FEC in Louisville, Kentucky boasts more than 65 games. The new center totals 45,000 square feet with 34 lanes of bowling including an 8 lane VIP suite, a full […]